Next Steps in Land-Based Studies
Next Steps in Land-based Studies is a bespoke, non-qualification programme designed to support students in achieving their Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) outcomes while preparing for entry into the land-based workplace, including Supported Employment, Supported Internships, Apprenticeships, or direct employment.
What will I study?
- Develop knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for success in the land-based industries
- Career Ready
- 60 hours supported work experience through supported work placement
- English and Maths (Functional Skills/GCSE) based on prior attainment and initial assessment
Programme intent
The programme uses a RARPA framework (Recognising and Recording Progress and Achievement) to ensure high-quality, personalised learning that helps students achieve meaningful and measurable outcomes.
Learners are guided through a structured and supportive journey, building the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for success in land-based industries such as animal care, agriculture, or equine management. Emphasis is placed on practical work experience, employability skills, and preparation for adulthood, helping students to set personal goals, make informed decisions, and take confident steps towards the workplace.
Through tailored support, targeted skill development, and embedded employability learning, students are empowered to achieve personalised and purposeful outcomes. Progression may include Supported Internships, Apprenticeships, Supported Employment, or direct entry into paid work within land-based sectors.
Our mission is to provide an inclusive, flexible, and aspirational stepping-stone into adult life, championing lifelong learning and ensuring every learner is equipped with the tools, confidence, and opportunities they need to grow, succeed, and thrive in a role that suits their interests and abilities in the land-based industries.
What modules will I study?
Since this is a RARPA-based programme, the learning is flexible and personalised to meet each student’s EHCP outcomes and readiness for work. Key learning areas include:
- Employability Skills: Supported work placements, CV and application support, interview practice, time management, workplace expectations
- Practical Industry Skills: Animal care, equine management, agricultural tasks, conservation projects, farm maintenance
- Personal Development: Building confidence, self-awareness, independence, resilience, decision-making skills
- Social and Communication Skills: Teamwork, problem-solving, working with supervisors, community engagement, effective communication
- Health, Safety and Wellbeing: Understanding and applying safe working practices, promoting animal welfare, maintaining personal health and wellbeing
How long will it take?
- Your study programme will be for the full academic year and your days of study will be for 3 full days per week
- 1 year programme
What qualifications do I need to start?
This programme is designed as an aspirational progression route for students currently studying at the College, rather than as an entry point for new applicants. Applications from internal students should demonstrate that the individual is ready for the demands of the programme and has the skills, motivation and commitment required to progress successfully towards employment.
Applicants will normally be expected to have achieved attendance above 90% and demonstrate strong engagement with their studies. Where a student has been involved in any formal conduct processes during their time at the College, this will be reviewed as part of the application process.
Places are limited and applicants must be ready to make the final step towards moving into the workplace.
What qualifications will I gain?
- English and Maths (Functional Skills/GCSE)
Course options after this programme
- Supported Internships, Apprenticeships, Supported Employment or Employment
