Level 1 Vocational Pathway

Vocational Pathway

Qualification

In the first year, you will have the opportunity to work towards the Pearson BTEC Introductory Certificate in Vocational Studies alongside the Pearson BTEC Level 1 Certificate in Personal Growth and Wellbeing.

The Vocational Studies Certificate is made up of five units: two core skills units and three practical sector skills units.

Core skills may include:

• Developing a Personal Progression Plan
• Being Organised
• Working with Others
• Researching a Topic

The sector units allow you to explore different vocational areas and develop practical skills. Vocational areas may include:

• Art and Design
• Business
• Caring for Children, Creative
• Information Technology
• Performing Arts
• Music Performance
• Sport

The Personal Growth and Wellbeing qualification helps you develop the personal, social and employability skills needed for greater independence, positive relationships, community participation and preparation for adulthood. Topics are selected to meet the needs of the group and may include:

• Physical Health and Wellbeing
• Emotional Wellbeing
• Relationships and Sexual Health
• Personal Identity, Rights and Responsibilities
• Resilience
• Financial Commitments
• Learning Through External Opportunities
• The Environment and Outdoor Learning

Duration of programme 

One to three years, depending on your starting point, individual needs, agreed outcomes and progression goals.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements. We will discuss whether the programme is suitable for you during your pre-entry assessment and consider your current skills, support needs, aspirations, and intended next steps.

If you have not achieved Level 2 in English or Mathematics, you will continue to develop these skills through separate classes and through practical vocational learning.

What does the course involve?

The Level 1 Vocational Pathway supports students with visual impairments who may also have neurodiverse profiles or additional needs. It combines recognised Level 1 qualifications with practical vocational learning, personal development and preparation for adulthood.

Your programme will be personalised in response to your starting point, Education, Health and Care Plan outcomes, interests, and future goals. You may need time to settle into College life, build independence and confidence, explore possible next steps, or prepare to progress to a Level 2 vocational programme. These are not separate routes: staff will help you build a programme that supports your individual progression.

Learning is practical and purposeful. Depending on the uniys being delivered, activities may include:

• planning and taking part in enterprise projects or events.
• making, promoting, and selling products.
• preparing and presenting a performance to an audience.
• exploring vocational areas through realistic tasks and projects.
• taking part in visits, guest speaker sessions, and learning outside the classroom.
• contributing to community, volunteering or environmental activities.
• developing customer service, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• using digital and assistive technology for research, planning, recording, and presenting work.
• reflecting on your skills, achievements, and next steps.

English, Mathematics, and Digital Skills are developed through the vocational programme. You will also build skills in communication, self-advocacy, organisation, teamwork, decision-making, and problem solving.

How you’ll learn

You will learn in small groups and independently, with support from specialist teachers and other staff. Teaching includes practical tasks, discussion, problem solving, demonstrations, projects, visits, independent exploration, and structured reflection.

Learning and assessment are adapted to your individual access needs. You may use Braille, large print, digital materials, screen-reading or magnification software and other assistive technology. Where appropriate, you may provide evidence through written work, audio or video recording, discussion, presentation or practical demonstration.

Work based learning

You will develop skills for the world of work through practical projects, enterprise activities and realistic workplace tasks. You will have the opportunities to build confidence on campus and, where appropriate to your individual programme and readiness, through external visits, community activities, work related learning or work experience.

Where will it take me?

Throughout the programme, you will explore your interests, strengths, and support needs and plan realistic next steps. Your progression route will be agreed with you and may include:

• further study at Level 1 Diploma to broaden or strengthen your skills.
• progression to a Level 2 vocational programme.
• supported internships, training or other preparation for employment.
• paid, supported or voluntary work.
• greater independence and participation in your home or local community.

The programme is designed to help you leave RNC with recognised achievements, increased confidence, and a clearer understanding of the next step that is right for you.