Leeds City College announces new Social, Emotional and Mental Health provision for students

#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek – Leeds City College (@leedscitycoll), part of Luminate Education Group, is becoming a key driver for improving young people’s prospects in the district, by launching a Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) provision for 16 to 24-year-olds. 

The college has launched Somerville House, a provision offering a different environment to students who may not be ready for a mainstream college course but have the motivation to progress with their studies. Students that attend the provision will be supported to develop and agree a career pathway that leads to a positive long-term destination.  

The college’s team of experts will be working within a small campus environment to deliver Supported Engagement Programmes; a range of courses offering four distinct routes for students to re-engage with education or prepare for employment. 

Located on the former Foundry Campus, Somerville House will provide support for students who may have missed schooling due to personal circumstances, have SEMH needs or have not achieved the grades needed to progress.

Emma Hollings, Head of Department for the Supported Engagement Programmes, said: “Somerville House provides our region’s young people with the opportunity to get excited about education. We offer a stimulating and inclusive environment with dedicated staff who are experienced in supporting students with SEMH needs. 

“Alongside studying a Supported Engagement Programme, there will be a strong focus on developing real world and employability skills. Students can complete internal and external work experience placements and have access to onsite vocational facilities, such as a life skills kitchen and arts classroom.”

There are four Supported Engagement Programmes available to students at the campus; all of which have no entry requirements and allow tutors to build bespoke timetables based on learners’ individual needs. 

The programmes include: Foundation in FE, for students hoping to improve their English and maths grades, Skills for Work and Life, aimed at learners wanting to progress into work and involving internal placements, The Prince’s Trust TEAM programme and short course Flexible Start Programmes.