Individualised, flexible online programme helps students re-engage with education

The Fresh Start programme will support students to gain employability and vocational qualifications including Maths and English. Courses start in September 2020 with enrolments being accepted throughout the year.

The programme is studied in a flexible manner to fit around students’ other commitments. The duration can be between 10 weeks and a full academic year depending upon the number of hours each student commits to the course each week.

Kelly Ardron, Programme Manager for Access to Learning at Barnsley College, said: “Our Foundation Learning department does an amazing job of engaging with young people aged 14-18 who have experienced barriers to learning and wish to progress onto their next steps. We recognised that we needed to expand this to include students aged 19-24 who also have barriers to learning or a negative educational experience and to help them back into work, training or education.

“The Fresh Start programme will result in a Level 1 employability qualification, Maths and English qualifications at the relevant level for the student and additional awards and certificates which are invaluable for the world of work. It is designed to give students the vital step from where they currently are back into work or further education or training.”