Supported Learning SCQF 1,2 & 3 (Fort William, Portree, Stornoway, Thurso and Ullapool) Access

What is special about this course?

The Supported Learning Programme is designed for individuals with recognised support needs who want to grow, learn, and connect in a welcoming and inclusive environment. You can choose to attend some or all classes across a variety of subjects, while also taking part in fun, creative, and social activities. It's a great opportunity to develop new skills and spend time with friends in a friendly, supportive setting. This course offers a positive, empowering space where students with additional support needs can learn, achieve, and thrive. 

Our classes are thoughtfully designed to help you reach your full potential by building confidence, independence, and practical knowledge through a wide range of engaging topics. We focus on real-life, relevant experiences that build on your existing skills and achievements, while also introducing new challenges and opportunities.

Our dedicated lecturers are here to support you every step of the way, helping you develop the tools to form healthy relationships, contribute to your community, and move forward in both life and work.

Entry requirements

• No formal qualifications are required
• Ability to communicate
• Ability to understand and follow instructions
• Ability to understand and follow Health, Safety and Hygiene policies
• An informal interview or activity with the course lecturer may take place to give the learner and carers, as appropriate, the chance to identify interests, skills, readiness for college, support needs and suitability of available classes.
  
  (Students who have Carers/Support Workers will require authority for those carers to join them at college from their agency/employer. All carers will require a current PVG and will be asked to read and sign the College Partnership Agreement Form)

Depending on classes attended, students will achieve one or more units at SCQF Access 1 -3, including the new SQA Personal Achievement Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards which reflect the values and aims of Curriculum for Excellence. They are designed to encourage learners to develop confidence, and independence and to communicate and respond to others in their own way. Learners will have the chance to take part in a range of new and familiar activities, and to experience and contribute to their community in various ways.

Learners will have the opportunity to discuss personal interests, goals and aims and will work towards agreed individual targets which reflect their needs and wishes and respond to Curriculum for Excellence principles.

The classes running will change each year but may offer examples of the following:

• Art and Design
• Life in Another Country
• Digital Photography
• Computing
• Craft with Enterprise
• Hobbies and Interests
• Gardening Skills
• Personal Health
• Safety & Security
• Social Events
• Performance

Fees

Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.