Summary

This course develops an understanding of the knowledge and skills required to run an Enterprise Project, which will be undertaken for a week towards the end of the course. You will develop confidence and self-esteem, as well as improve on your assertiveness, decision-making, interpersonal, presentation and teamwork skills – all the important skills required for life and the world of work.

This course is based at our Filton campus, located in South Gloucestershire which is easily accessible from the city of Bristol by train (Bristol Parkway / Bristol Abbey Wood) and bus. As well as our Stroud campus in the centre of Gloucestershire, surrounded by the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The campus is a short walk from Stroud train station and easily accessible by bus.

How will I know how I am doing?

You will undertake a L1 BTEC qualification in Vocational Studies. A range of teaching methods will be used in the classroom, including: writing, reading, researching, presentations, discussions, branding and case studies. You will also run an Enterprise Project raising money for a chosen charity at a location of your choice.

What do I need to join?

As well as having a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, learners will ideally possess GCSE grades 1 or 2 in both English and Maths.

Maths & English

A key requirement for future progression and employment is a good understanding and application of knowledge and skills in both English and Maths. Learners who are enrolled on this course will also, as part of their overall programme of study, be enrolled on Functional Skills and/or GCSE English and Maths in order to progress towards gaining grade 4s in both subjects.

Employability

We aim to provide you with the core skills required to progress into further study, training or employment upon completion of your study programme. Key attributes required by employers are that individuals be enthusiastic, motivated, presentable (in some instances in company uniform), organised, articulate, able to think 'outside the box', business-like and enterprising, and that they have a 'can-do' attitude. We work on all these areas throughout the duration of your programme of study, and your tutor(s) will provide feedback on progress made, as well as areas for development.

Work Experience

As part of your overall programme of study, learners will be required to undertake a period of work placement related to the field of employment they wish to enter. The Enterprise Project offers an opportunity to develop key skills acquired through a work placement. We also encourage learners to pursue work experience outside of the college. Our Work Placement Team will assist learners in gaining a placement and ensure that you are on track to achieve, whilst liaising with your course tutors to ensure that the opportunity to practice necessary employability skills is available at college.

What can I do next?

Learners who successfully complete may be eligible for progression onto a Level 2 programme of study, GCSE Plus or an apprenticeship in a related discipline. If you have not achieved the entry requirements needed for Level 2, don't panic. Our second year, Enterprise Plus+ course, will provide a further opportunity to progression routes.