The LIVE study programme focuses on preparing the learners for employment. The college has very strong relationships with prestigious employers within the West Midlands region who provide meaningful work placements for our students on a weekly basis to support their transition into work. The Placement Co-ordinator ensures that students are carefully placed with an employer allowing maximum independence, but with the correct level of support and guidance to suit each individual student. All students are accompanied by a Work Placement Supervisor when carrying out work experience activities with a gradual reduction in support leading to students being able to work independently.
Work experience activities will assist students to identify their job preferences and produce a vocational profile to help achieve a job match to suit their ability.
Many of our student’s progress on to a Supported Internship which is a personalised study programme based mainly at an employer’s premises where students are supported by a Job Coach. Job Coaches provide in-work support during the internship to ensure that the students are ready to take up employment at the end of the internship programme.
In addition to the work placements the learner’s study Workskills as their core
qualification along with Maths, English and ICT from Entry 1 to Level 2 depending on each learner’s previous qualifications.
“Students who are preparing for employment and voluntary work in the community develop good practical, personal, English and Mathematical skills” Ofsted Report (March 2019)
LIVE learners also participate in Independent Living Skills and well-being activities such as basic cooking skills, fitness and gardening. They also participate in Young Peoples Sexual Health lessons delivered by the National Health Service.
The Hive College is dedicated to preparing the LIVE students for adult life to ensure that following on from their time at the college students will go on to employment or an Apprenticeship within their chosen vocational area. We will continue to support students when they have completed their study programmes to ensure sustainability within the workplace.
“Students are rightly proud of the skills they learn in their work placements. They explain how the skills they have learned in sessions support them to work well in their placements. Employers value student’s contributions at work. Most students who complete their supported internships gain paid employment” Ofsted Report (March 2019)