Foundation Learning (SEN)
Welcome to Our Foundation Learning and Inclusion Level Programmes
Our Foundation Level courses are designed to help young people and adults build confidence, develop practical skills and work towards qualifications from Entry Level up to Level 2. We offer a range of programmes tailored to different needs, abilities and ambitions, whether you’re developing core skills, exploring a vocational area or preparing for further study. The Faculty of Foundation Learning and Inclusion operates across two sites – and our Centre for Progression in Tiverton.
Entry Level courses focus on independence and personal progression, while Level 1 introduces vocational subjects linked to your interests. GCSE Fast Track and Level 2 options help you move towards Level 3 study and wider opportunities.
You’ll learn from specialist teachers and be supported by experienced learning assistants who will help you get the most from your time at college. We put strong emphasis on practical learning, using specialist facilities and work placements to help you develop the skills employers value. Our Work Experience Co‑ordinator is also on hand to help you find suitable placements.
We’re incredibly proud of how our students progress, whether that’s moving on within the College, securing an apprenticeship, stepping into skilled employment or gaining greater independence in daily life. Whatever your starting point, our aim is to help you take your next step with confidence.
Entry Level
Skills Gateway
This course is for you if you are unsure as to the path you want to take. You will develop your skills and knowledge in preparation for progressing to another course or the world of work. We will help you explore different options and develop the necessary skills to progress into a job, apprenticeship or supported internship.
Entry criteria: Interview only
Location: Exeter or Tiverton
Independence Gateway
This course is for you if you want to become more independent. You will learn about how your local community works and how to use your skills so you can feel more confident and do more things for yourself. You will be taught in small groups and be in College three and a half days a week.
Entry criteria: Interview only
Location: Exeter or Tiverton
Progression Gateway
This course is for you if you are not sure what you want to do in the future. Here you will explore a range of employment options and we will work with you to develop your interview skills and participate in community-based projects. Alongside this you will study English and Maths and work closely with your tutor to help you progress. This course is usually taught in groups of 14-16, over three to four days a week.
Entry criteria: Grade 1 English and Maths, or below
Location: Exeter or Tiverton
Level 1 Programmes
BTEC Introductory Diplomas
These courses are for you if you know the kind of work for which you would like to train. There are a range of courses that give you an introduction to your chosen world of work. Assignments are set regularly and will contribute to your overall grade. You will engage in work experience with business partners to broaden your knowledge. You will study English and Maths alongside your main BTEC qualification if you haven’t already gained a GCSE at grade 4. You will be taught in groups of 14-16, over three to four days a week.
Available Level 1 Diplomas
The following BTEC Introductory Diplomas are available:
Entry criteria: Four GCSEs at grade 2, including English and Maths.
GCSE Fast Track
A unique course in the UK that enables you to gain three full GCSEs in a year
This course is ideal if you want to take your GCSEs or improve your current GCSE grades to enable you to progress on to a Level 3 course.
You will study three subjects: GCSE English, Maths and Biology. If you have already achieved a grade 4 or above in any one of these three GCSE subjects, you may be offered the opportunity to study GCSE Sociology or undertake the Higher Project Qualification at Level 2.
You will be taught through lectures, group work, teamwork, plus individual study. GCSE Fast Track is highly supportive course, which encourages independent learning.
Entry criteria: Entry is by personal interview with a member of the GCSE Fast Track Team. You need to have been working towards GCSE level qualifications or have a grade 3 or 4 in English Language and Maths. There will be pre-course assessments to check your current level.
What you will learn
You will have an individual timetable based on three subjects: GCSE English, Maths and Biology. If you have already achieved a grade 4 or above in any one of these 3 GCSE subjects, you may be offered the opportunity to study GCSE Sociology or undertake the Higher Project Qualification at Level 2.
What you can expect
You will have a personal tutor and attend weekly Personal Development sessions. You will receive preparation for progression on to Level 3 programmes.
Assessment
Assessment is a mixture of presentations, practical work and final examinations in May and June.
Progression
Most students progress to AS Levels or Vocational Level 3 programmes within Exeter College, in subjects ranging from Catering to Classical Civilisation. Some students have progressed on to Apprenticeships and some have gone on to full time employment. As part of your personal development, attention is given to employability skills and progression skills. You will be supported with transition.
Adult 19+ Courses
Community Gateway
This course is for you if you over the aged 19 – 24 with an EHCP who require additional support in their learning. You will also gain Maths and English qualifications, which will involve Coursework.
This programme runs for 36 weeks, and is three days per week.
Entry criteria: Interview and assessment
Location: Exeter or Tiverton
Supported Internships
This work based course is for you if you are 19 or over, you hold an EHCP (Education Healthcare Plan) and you have a desire to progress towards employment. You will spend two days in a work placement as an intern. You will be supported by job coaches who will work with you and the employer to help you achieve your goals. You will spend one day a week at College completing work around employability skills, while brushing up on English and Maths skills needed for the workplace. At the end of this programme, you may receive a reference from both your tutor and your internship employer, or an interview for employment. The programme runs for 36 weeks, over three days a week.
Entry criteria: Interview only
Location: Exeter or Tiverton
Have a question?
If you have questions or would like to speak to someone, our team of Customer Service Advisers can help answer your questions or direct your enquiry to the correct team.
Speak to us today on 01392 400500 or email info@exe-coll.ac.uk.
Ready to find out more?
Why not come along to one of our open events, a chance to explore our facilities, ask questions about our courses and find out more about being a student at Exeter College.
Visit our Open Events page to find out more today.