Integrated Studies Glenys Tucker Innovative programme as part of the learning support provision which is effective in supporting students in the development of their literacy and learning skills OFSTED 2005

Planning of programme Why an Integrated Studies programme Low GCSE scores Retention rates poor Increased numbers of students assessed as having a learning difficulty Males reluctant to attend support

Designing the programme WSFC has open access policy – therefore students were accessing 4 A/S subjects with only 4C’s at GCSE Students with low GCSE scores were finding studying 4 subjects difficult Retention score was below national bench mark figures.

Designing the programme continued A fourth subject was necessary to ensure LSC funding was kept at the same level per student Students required a more supportive programme Specialist support needed to be at the centre of programme

Designing the programme continued Academic and Learning Support and Key skills (incorporates General Studies/Critical Thinking) Joined forces to accommodate programme. General studies programme plus support = 4 lessons per week 4.40hrs Incorportate IT Key Skills level 2 and 3 Support teacher in 3 out of 4 lessons (Dyslexia trained)

What happened next! Agreement with Senior Management Integrated Studies became part of A/S programme academic year 2004 – 2005 Three groups x 4 lessons per week Approximately 20 students per group At least 6 students with a specific learning difficulty within each group

What happened next! All students assessed again via Quickscan if missed during course allocation. Any student who’s Quickscan result indicated a learning difficulty was further investigated and full assessment for specific learning difficulty undertaken.

What happened next! All students monitored carefully through individual learning plans and half termly reviews ensured ‘smart targets’ were revisited looking for progress or concerns Specialist tutors and Senior Tutors kept up to date.

Year one evaluation Good progress made – retention improving IT Key Skills all students completed More sets required as increased numbers of students identified as requiring this type of supportive programme A2 Integrated studies required to ensure year two students continued to be supported. Students more amenable to support Some students could be disruptive in class owing to large number of males

Improved programme for A/S and A2 Groups commenced Five groups now in operation Support still at core of programme Individual learning plans now electronic to allow for easier input from support teacher Reviews continue half termly – signed by student and teacher

Improvements for Each group will have own specialist tutor who is also their support teacher To increase support at pastoral level by a specialist who is aware of Specific learning difficulties To aid communication to other subject teachers, parents etc To aid students completing College documentation through tutorial system e.g. UCAS applications

The way forward This programme has worked for our cohort. We are now looking to provide a similar support package for our adult students within the Access course. We will offer support and tutoring from a member of the academic and learning support team together with input from the Adult and Community Education Department