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Substantial Qualifications – vocational qualifications
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by Debra Johnson, FlfL QTLS and Rachel Cooke
A levels
Traineeships
Supportedinternships
Vocational qualifications
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16-19 study programmes - A toolkit
for practitionersThis toolkit aims to support practitioners to develop effective study programmes
for 16-19 year olds.
A levels
Traineeships
Supportedinternships
Vocational qualifications
16-19 study programmes – A toolkit for practitioners
This toolkit aims to support practitioners to develop
effective study programmes for 16-19 year-olds.
It does not offer specific guidelines or models of good
practice, rather it provides links to useful sources
of information, guidance and examples. It poses
questions for individuals and collaborative reflection to
encourage you, as expert and creative practitioners,
to build on the successful elements of existing practice
and extend what you already do well. Bear in mind
that you are planning for each learners’ journey on an
individual basis and taking a holistic approach that
meets each student’s personal needs and aspirations.
Rationale
Substantial qualification
Non-qualification activity
English and maths
Teaching and learning
Rationale
Professor Alison Wolf, in her review of vocational education, recommended that study programmes be introduced to offer students breadth and depth and without limiting their options for future study or work.
As of September 2013, all 16-19 year-old students are following a
study programme with clear study and/or employment goals reflecting
students’ prior attainment, including students with learning difficulties
and/or disabilities.
Further information is available on the Department for Education’s
(DfE) study programmes website and in the Education Funding
Agency’s 16-19 funding formula overview:
DfE - 16 to 19 study programmes
Study Programmes for 16-19 year olds (PDF)
Detailed information is also given by AELP:
Association of Employment and Learning Providers
16-19 study programmes include:
• A substantial qualification (which can be
A-levels or larger vocational qualifications)
or, where appropriate, a traineeship, or
extended period of work experience and
employability preparation;
• Work experience;
• English and maths, where students have
not yet achieved a GCSE grade A*- C in
these subjects by age 16;
• non-qualification activity, such as tutorials,
work experience and work-related learning,
relevant to the programme goals.
These four elements of the programme should
combine to provide stretch and challenge for
the learner, to prepare them for employment or
further study.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Funding
Information on the funding changes that support
16-19 study programmes is available at:
DfE - Funding of 16 to 19 study programmes
DfE - EFA 16 to 19 funding guidance
2013 to 2014
DfE - The 16 to 19 Bursary Fund
Skills Funding Agency - Funding Rules
ACCOUNTABILITY
Ofsted will inspect all study programmes through the common
inspection framework. Apprenticeships must meet the Department of
Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) minimum levels of performance.
Ofsted has produced a slide pack on how study programmes will
be inspected, available on the DfE website:
Ofsted – Quality and inspection of study programmes (PDF)
The government is consulting on reforms to performance tables
for 16-19 education, with proposals to include not only attainment
information, but also progression, destination and completion. The
proposed new measures also include, recording student attainment
at level 2 and below for the first time. This will ensure that schools
and colleges are doing their best to support all students in securing
positive outcomes, with a particular focus on post-16 English and
maths attainment.
Narrowing the achievement gap between different groups of learners
Providers will also be judged on the extent to which they are
successful in narrowing the achievement gap between different
groups of students. Data analysis to identify differences in
attendance, retention, achievement and progression, for different
groups will continue to be crucial.
Some interesting research that evaluates a range of teaching and
approaches and their impact on maximising achievement and
progression of disadvantaged students is available:
Sutton Trust - EEF Teaching and Learning Toolkit (PDF)
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Substantial qualifications
For those students capable of studying and achieving qualifications, study towards a substantial qualification should take up at least half of a student’s study programme time.
Substantial qualifications should be of sufficient relevance and
size typically the same size as an A-level or at least 150 guided
learning hours per year. They should provide a recognised route into
a trade, profession or form of employment, or to higher education.
A-levels or substantial vocational qualifications at level 2 or 3 provide
most students with the route to their career goals. Study for these
qualifications should make up the majority of the study programme
time. In most cases, students will take qualifications at A-level above
their prior attainment. For students who are not yet ready to study and
achieve substantial vocational and/or academic qualifications at level
2, their study programme may consist of substantial work experience
plus English and maths if they have still to achieve GCSEs (A*-C) .
DfE - Substantial qualifications
A key aspect of the substantial qualification
is that is offers opportunities for curriculum
development on a student-by-student basis
so that learners can be entered for more
challenging qualifications, can take fewer
qualifications and spend time on work
experience.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Students taking A-levels
It is likely that A-level programmes
already cover the new requirements.
These programmes usually include
non-qualification activity such as tutorial,
work to develop personal or study skills and
guidance for progression into employment
or higher education. One area for development
might be the extension of work to develop
enterprise related skills in order to prepare to
become self-employed or to set up or develop
a business successfully.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will the interview and induction process ensure that
the learner understands the structure and purpose of the
programme? Has the learner received effective advice and
guidance to select the most appropriate qualification?
2. Is the initial assessment process sufficiently diagnostic to
identify specific areas of need for individual learners?
3. Is the balance between the substantial qualification and other
activities in the learner’s programme appropriate to meet their
individual needs and aspirations?
4. Does the qualification offer provide progression at A-level
beyond the learner’s prior attainment? Will it stretch the student?
What are the opportunities for progression in employment,
training or higher levels of education?
5. Is the qualification recognised by Higher Education institutions
and/or the relevant trade or professional body?
6. Does the programme offer opportunities for review and
changing track?
7. To what extent can your organisation offer good support and
guidance by staff and external agencies that can effectively
enable young people who have been disengaged from learning
to return to study?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Students following vocational qualifications
Most students undertaking vocational qualifications will take at least
one substantial qualification which will make up the majority of the
programme. These qualifications should provide a direct route into a
trade or profession or a higher level course of study.
Students on traineeships
Traineeships provide preparation for apprenticeship or employment
for 16 – 24 year-olds. Trainees undertake a substantial work
experience placement, with skills training, support for English and
maths, alongside other types of support.
DfE - Traineeships (PDF)
Supported internship
Supported internships provide a route into supported employment for
16 – 25 year-olds with Learning Difficulty assessments. They provide
a structured study programme, based at an employer, tailored to the
individual needs of the young person to equip them with the skills
they need for the workplace. This will include on-the-job training,
backed by expert job coaches to support interns and employers, and
the chance to study for relevant qualifications – where appropriate.
AELP - Study Programmes and Traineeships
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS
National careers service
For students to explore career opportunities
in STEM subjects:
Gocracker - Career Pathways
Information on financial and learning support:
Skills Funding Agency - Discretionary
Learner Support
GOV.UK - Professional and Career
Development Loans
Skills Funding Agency - Lifelong learning
account
Award board websites provide a rich source on
information on substantial qualifications.
GOV.UK - Increasing options and improving
provision for children with special
educational|needs (SEN)
For most practitioners the move to 16-19 study programmes is likely
to involve an adjustment and extension of current effective practice,
as some programmes already include work placements, activities
to develop generic and specific employability skills including self-
management, business and customer awareness and application of
numeracy and IT in ways that enable learners to acquire skills and
knowledge for their chosen career.
Whatever the subject, schemes of work will need to be adjusted
to meet the new focus on developing enterprise skills and
entrepreneurship in all subjects. This would include activities to
maximise the development of personal learning and thinking skills so
that students are used to encountering enterprise activities in all their
subjects. Where possible, support from businesses and community
groups would enhance this, as would activities that encourage
students’ creativity and provide opportunities to be innovative in
interesting real life contexts. When planning these activities, bear in
mind the DfE guidance on work experience and enterprise;
DfE - Work experience for 16- to 19-year-olds
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Non-qualification activity
A welcome feature of the new study programmes is the freedom to offer non-qualification activities; work experience and learning to develop personal, employability and study skills. It is likely that schemes of work, learning resources and lesson plans on these themes are already available to you within your organisation. The sharing of successful practice among colleagues may well be the most effective way of developing the new curriculum.
Non-qualification activities aim to develop the skills, attitude and
confidence to support progression through work experience, enterprise
education and other enrichment activities. Although the terms,
‘work experience’ and ‘enterprise education’, are familiar to most
practitioners, DfE have given clear guidance on the differences and
connections between the two:
DfE - Work experience for 16- to 19-year-olds
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Providers will already have established links
with local organisations in their area that
can be built on and extended. It may be that
dedicated staff will be needed to network with
employers to develop and maintain contact
closer relationships for the benefit of learners.
AELP gives some useful guidance:
AELP - Study Programmes and Traineeships
Extending employer engagement will be
a significant area for further research and
development as 16-19 study programmes
develop.
Work experience will form an integral part
of each learner’s study programme. Work
experience could encompass a range of
activities that take place in the workplace
and develop skills, knowledge and
understanding of different skill sectors and
employers’ expectations, with a clear aim
of improving the student’s employability.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Work experience
The most radical change with 16-19 study programmes is the need
for much more work experience.
Guidance on expectations for high quality, meaningful work
experience is given on the DfE website:
Our definition of meaningful work experience is:
• Purposeful, substantial, offers challenge and is relevant to the
young person’s study programme and/or career aspirations.
• It is managed well under the direction of a supervisor in order to
ensure that the student obtains a genuine learning experience
suited to their needs.
• It ensures that time is well spent: the employer has prepared
a structured plan for the duration of the work placement that
provides tangible outcomes for the student and employer.
• It provides up-front clarity about the roles, responsibilities and
the expectations of the student and employer.
• It is reviewed at the end: the employer provides some form of
reference or feedback based on the young person’s performance
during their time on the work placement.
DfE - Work experience for 16- to 19-year-olds
This is likely to require much more employer engagement with
providers and more rigorous coordination of work placements.
This is already proving to be as one of the biggest challenges of
16-19 study programmes.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will you prepare the learner for the placement, so they
are clear about their responsibilities and expectations? Who
will be responsible for negotiating with the learner to devise a
structured learning plan with tangible outcomes? What will this
look like?
2. How will learning be assessed? Will the employer provide some
sort of reference or feedback on the learner’s performance
during the work placement?
3. How can placements be managed and supervised efficiently and
effectively to ensure that the experience genuinely supports the
student’s learning?
These questions could provide a framework for discussion at team
meetings or within CPD events.
Some suggested approaches from DfE:
Experiential
Learners taking A-levels participating in one or two short periods of
work experience and other work-related projects connected to future
study or employment, such as study visits, projects and engagement
with local enterprise.
Vocational
Learners taking level 2 or 3 vocational qualifications participating
longer placements relevant to their main qualification.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Extended
Learners not taking level 2 or 3 substantial qualifications, following
the traineeship route, should be offered extended work experience.
A useful paper: Traineeships - Supporting young people to develop
the skills for apprenticeships and sustainable employment, published
by DfE and BIS, explains the specific requirements:
We expect the duration of the work placement within a
traineeship to be at least six weeks and no more than five
months. We expect the lead employer for the work placement to
be identified before young people are enrolled on a traineeship.
We expect all traineeships to offer a guaranteed interview with
the work placement host at the end of the placement.
DfE - Traineeships - Framework for Delivery (PDF)
Students with learning difficulties and disabilities
For young people with learning difficulties and/or disabilities,
supported internships provide valuable work-based learning.
The programme might lead to a substantial qualification, although
this may not be appropriate for all learners; the ability to live
independently, or progress in the ability to communicate, may be
a more positive outcome. The programme of study may lead to
improved English and/or maths without a qualification.
DfE - Increasing options and improving provision for children with
special educational needs (SEN)
Examples of other types of non-qualification
activity might include:
• Workplace visits – for groups of learners
interested in particular sectors.
• Enterprise projects – employers setting
business briefs for learners for students to
solve. This type of activity encourages team
working, leadership, good communication,
working to deadlines, problem solving and
requires an understanding of business
finance.
• Mentoring – employers providing one-to-one
encouragement and support to learners.
• Work shadowing – giving learners the
opportunity to observe staff in real working
environments.
• Workshops – employers leading discussions
with learners, on school, college or employer
premises, about the realities of work, and
training environment.
These examples give some starting points but
the style and duration of work placements,
enterprise education and other activities will
vary. Aim for creative and flexible approaches
to respond to the needs and aspirations of
individual learners and the current realities of
local employment and adult life.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
“
”
USEFUL WEBLINKS
Supporting learners to succeed on LSIS excellence gateway
Narrowing the achievement gap, case studies from LSIS
excellence gateway
Jorum provides a huge range of resources for tutorials produced by
colleagues in FE and HE
Lesson plans and materials on a range of topics linked to the
development of personal and social skills
Examples of good practice identified by Ofsted:
Ofsted - 16 to 19 study programmes
Ofsted - Good practice resource - Personal development programme
for apprentices: Honda Motor Europe Limited
AoC guide to preparing students for work experience, with examples
of how some providers have responded to this (PDF)
AELP has also developed a work experience readiness checklist
TEACHING AND LEARNING RESOURCES FOR ENTERPRISE
Ofsted - Promoting enterprise in vocational
courses for 16-19-year-old students in colleges
Biz/ed - Business Studies
tutor2u - EntrepreneurLIVE! Teaching Activity
BBC Dragons’ Den - Useful links to other
enterprise agencies including case studies.
The site also holds extracts from the popular
TV series
Enterprise Educators UK - Case studies,
examples from Higher Education
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
English and maths
As a part of 16 –19 study programmes, all students who have not achieved a C grade in GCSE maths and English by the end of Key Stage 4 must continue to study those subjects. Almost 50 percent of all students fail to achieve a grade C at age 16 in these two subjects
Where GCSE A*- C English and maths is not immediately attainable,
students can study other English and maths qualifications such as
Functional Skills and Free Standing Maths qualifications as ‘interim’
or ‘stepping stone’ qualifications on the journey towards achievement
of a GCSE.
DfE - Study programmes for 16 - 19 - year olds
In many cases, learners who enter further education with grade D
in maths or English, will retake the GCSE in year 12, (though effective
initial assessment of the relevant skills will also be needed to determine
the most appropriate qualification route. It may be that those with
grade E or below will follow a functional skills qualification initially, with
an expectation that this will prepare them for GCSE in year 12.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
You may wish to consider whether or not, in light of your experience,
there is a clear progression route between the two awards?
1. How will the initial assessment process be managed?
2. How do you use the outcomes from initial assessment to plan
each learner’s programme of work in English and maths?
3. Does your organisation have specialist English and maths
teachers with the qualifications and expertise to deliver the full
range of qualifications?
4. In your organisation, would learners taking a course leading to
a functional skills award be adequately prepared for GCSE the
following year?
5. Would you wish to make changes or additions to the learning
activities in functional skills courses in order to support
progression to GCSE? If so, what and how would you do
differently?
6. To what extent will learners value this change? How will you
respond to those who question the value of retaking GCSE?
Level 3 qualifications in maths are valued by employers and higher
education institutions. Learners who have already achieved grade
A*- C in maths will value the opportunity to continue studying maths
at level 3 to support their progression.
Those with Learning Difficulty Assessments should continue
to progress in English and maths but not necessarily towards
qualifications.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
English and maths in vocational learning
Vocational teachers who integrate the English
and maths into their teaching find that learners
are well motivated and achieve higher results.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How involved are you as a vocational
teacher, in teaching English and maths?
2. Are there different ways which you could
develop to your learners to develop skills
to carry out practical English and maths
tasks independently, confidently and
accurately?
3. What types of support are available to you
to develop this aspect of your teaching?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS
NRDC - Excellent website for research and
resources on embedding English and maths
in vocational and general education courses.
Lots of information for extending your own
skills as well as teaching resources
NRDC - Particularly relevant article with links,
for vocational teachers new to teaching maths:
Cara,O et al. (2006) You wouldn’t expect a
maths teacher to teach plastering
Talent - A valuable source of teaching
resources for basic English and maths post 16,
many contextualised to work related learning
NCETM - Teaching resources for post 16 maths
Links to LSIS Excellence Gateway’s collections
of resources for English and maths
DfE- Article explaining the rationale for reform
of English and maths post-16
Great Learning - Thought provoking
discussions about Functional Skills
Lesct - Detailed article with tips for planning
learning and assessment (PDF)
Ofsed good practice examples
EEF - Some interesting research that evaluates
a range of teaching and approaches and
their impact on maximising achievement and
progression of disadvantaged students is
available (PDF)
Many vocational teachers are successful at embedding these
skills because they have the expert knowledge of the subject and are
able to find different ways of helping learners to carry out practical
English and maths tasks independently, confidently and accurately.
In maths, learning this can be particularly effective. Students
learn through practical application and problems solving, in an
environment where they have access to tools, materials and
equipment.
• Successful maths teachers use a mixture of innovation
and traditional methods
• They are skilful at questioning and developing
maths language
• Their questions are varied and challenging
If you are new to embedding English or maths into your subject
teaching, it might be helpful to seek mentoring support from a more
experienced colleague, if you can.
You may find a good starting point is to frame questions carefully
and listen closely to your learners as they explain the methods
and approaches that they use. When learners explain their ways of
working they are clarifying their thinking and gaining confidence.
This enables you to gain insights into their conceptual understanding.
You may also find that you are learning new approaches and a
reminder that in the adult world there is no one right way of doing
things. With collaboration, you can begin to extend your knowledge
of a range of successful methods that develop independence,
confidence and accuracy.
You may also wish to consider further study in maths or English
to raise the level of your qualifications and to watch expert teachers
in action.
Teaching and learning 16-19
16-19 study programmes are about making learning directly relevant to learners’ lives and the real world. As teachers and trainers, you have gained learners’ respect through your secure subject knowledge and experience in business, industry or higher education. You will recognise the value that school leavers place on the greater freedom and more adult-to-adult relationships that you foster. This increased courtesy, respect and trust from teachers, gives learners greater confidence, self-worth, and motivation to learn.
16-19 study programmes will build on the skills and expertise that you
bring to your learners. One change is the increased focus on teaching
that consistently supports enterprise-related skills, regardless of
subject. No one single model is recommended, but well thought out,
practical work-based projects related to main programmes of study,
genuinely support the development of the young entrepreneur.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Well-designed projects are welcomed by
students and are effective in developing
their ability to:
• be confident
• be creative and innovative
• communicate effectively
• solve problems
• understand risk and reward
• respond positively to change
• work as a member of a team
• use initiative
• take the lead when the occasion demands
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Does your initial assessment process motivate by emphasising
the learner’s strengths?
2. Is it used adequately to develop individual learning plans with
targets that are individual and specific enough for learners to
understand and have a record of their progress?
3. Do learning sessions take account of learners’ individual needs?
4. Do teaching and learning activities develop skills and knowledge
for the next steps?
5. Are activities challenging and interesting?
6. Do learners get enough constructive feedback on progress
in relation to what they need to do next to be successful?
Young people experience enormous change in terms of their
physical, emotional and psychological development between the
ages of 16 and 19. We see this in the diversity of attitude and
motivation in any teaching group. The development of the brain
during adolescence affects behaviour, particularly impulse control,
which can result in clumsiness when attempting to make reasoned
choices and control behaviour. These emotional and mental health
issues impact on learning.
You will also recognise the challenges that working with
16-19 year-olds through this period of transition in their lives is
challenging. As students strive to establish their own identity
and take greater control over their lives, they demand greater
independence. Teachers and trainers in further education are
skilful at lowering the power base in ways that allow students
more choice, whilst maintaining the control needed to enable
them to make informed decisions in a secure environment.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
You are therefore, well equipped to ensure
that students actually do learn and make rapid
progress in terms of skills and knowledge
as well as growing in maturity needed for
successful progression in employment and
higher education.
Successful teaching and learning 16-19 year
olds includes:
• Creating reflective students;
• Fostering collaboration among learners
through group work and discussion;
• Using learning technology;
• Embedding English and maths;
• Overcoming barriers to learning;
• Supporting emotional or mental health
difficulties presented by students.
It is likely that schemes of work, learning
resources and lesson plans on these themes
are already available to you within your
organisation. The sharing of successful
practice among colleagues may well be the
most effective way of developing these.
Research and evaluation
As the new curriculum for 16-19 study programmes emerges, regular
review and evaluation will ensure that you are working effectively
within the new framework. You should consider:
The appropriate balance between the substantial qualification and
other activities in the learners programme.
Collaborative enquiry for is a valuable tool for mutual problem solving
in curriculum development. One approach might be for a small group
of teachers to identify key issues emerging from curriculum change in
their practice. For example:
• What specific changes to the curriculum are we making and why?
• How will we evaluate learning for wider personal, employability and
study skills?
• How will we assess the extent to which learners are making
progress in terms of their readiness for employment or higher
study?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
One suggestion for a collaborative enquiry
approach:
1. Identify three learners for case study.
Be specific in the choice of learners, for
example a sample of high, middle and
low achievers
2. Teach and, if practical jointly observe, with
focus on learners’ response and progress
3. Interview the three case study learners,
analyse their feedback, progress and
impact of teaching on their learning
4. Discuss the impact of the curriculum
change with colleagues. Be prepared
to make adjustments
5. Consider how you could disseminate the
findings from your research more widely
within your organisation and beyond.
Practitioner research is a well-established
practice that enables teachers and trainers to
better understand the context in which they
work. It aims to explore complex situations in
which the practitioner has responsibility for
implementing policy in ways that give learners
the best possible experiences. It recognises
that in these situations, the practitioner is the
expert; they are best place to understand
and develop the specific context for learning
through structured, critical enquiry.
USEFUL WEBLINKS
IfL is building a library of online resources to support your continuing
professional development (CPD). As dual professionals, IfL members
are required to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their
subject or vocational specialisms as well as their teaching practice. These
resources will help you find links to CPD opportunities through IfL and
across the further education and skills sector.
Teaching and Learning CPD resources
IfL - Resources to support your CPD
Mobile learning in practice, a toolkit for FE teachers produced by Tribal
education (PDF)
Youtube’s education collection
Sutton Trust - EEF Teaching and Learning Toolkit - Interesting research
that evaluates a range of teaching and approaches and their impact on
maximising achievement and progression for disadvantaged learners is
available (PDF)
Case studies of good practice in enterprise education from Ofsted reports
Niace mental health toolkit for Fe teachers
infed, a rich source of discussions on teaching and learning matters
BBC Learning
Geoff Petty - Inspiration and resources for brilliant teaching and learning
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
LIFE 2: key compentencies in life skills
If you are looking for inspiring ways to help
learners to be ready for work and build links
with employers, here are some resources you
can use within any vocational course:
Ifl - LIFE 2 project
The contents of this publication may be
reproduced in part, except for commercial
purposes, provided that the extract is
preceded by a complete reference to
‘LIFE 2 – Key competences in life skills,
Transfer of Innovation EC supported project,
2012. Published 2012
This project has been funded with support from
the European Commission. This publication
reflects the views only of the authors and the
Commission cannot be held responsible for
any use which may be made of the information
contained therein.
• Mentoring
• Brain science in the classroom
• Characteristics of excellent
teachers
• Critical incident analysis
• Dyslexia
• Matching exercise
• Peer assessment of learning
• Speaking and listening
• Taking REfLECT to the next level
• Using mobile technologies
• Assessment for learning
• Differentiated questioning
• E-learning tools
Substantial qualifications - A-levels
For those students studying A-levels, study towards
the substantial qualification should take up at least
half of a student’s study programme time. A key
aspect of the substantial qualification is that it offers
opportunities for curriculum development on a
student-by-student basis so that learners can be
entered for more challenging qualifications and spend
time on work experience and enterprise education.
DfE - Substantial qualifications
Non-qualification activity
Enterprise education
English and maths
Teaching and learning
in A-levels programmes
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Is the balance between the substantial qualification and
other activities in the learner’s programme appropriate?
2. How will the interview and induction process ensure that
the learner understands the structure and purpose of the
programme? Has the learner received effective advice and
guidance to select the most appropriate qualification?
3. Is the initial assessment process sufficiently diagnostic to
identify specific areas of need for individual learners?
4. Does the qualification offered provide progression at A-levels
beyond the learner’s prior attainment? Will it stretch the student?
What are the opportunities for progression in employment,
training or higher levels of education?
5. Is the qualification recognised by higher education institutions
and/or the relevant trade or professional body?
6. Does the programme offer opportunities for review and changing
track?
7. To what extent can your organisation offer good support and
guidance by staff and external agencies that can effectively
enable young people who have been disengaged from learning
to return to study?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS
National careers service
Career opportunities in STEM subjects
Award board websites provide a rich source
on information on substantial qualifications
Non-qualification activity
Non-qualification activities aim to develop the skills, attitude and confidence to support progression through work experience and other enrichment activities. Most A-levels programmes will already cover some of the new requirements through the inclusion of non-qualification activity such as tutorial, work to develop personal or study skills and guidance for progression into employment or higher education.
Examples of non-qualification activity in A-levels programmes
might include:
• Workplace visits – for groups of learners interested in
particular sectors
• Enterprise projects – employers setting business briefs for
learners to solve. This type of activity encourages team working,
leadership, good communication, working to deadlines, problem
solving and requires an understanding of business finance.
• Mentoring – employers providing one-to-one encouragement and
support to learners
• Work shadowing – giving learners the opportunity to observe staff
in real working environments
• Workshops – employers leading discussions with learners, on
school, college or employer premises, about the realities of work,
and training environment.
Work experience
A work experience placement will form
an integral part of each learner’s study
programme. Work experience could
encompass a range of activities in the
workplace that develop skills, knowledge
and understanding of different skill sectors,
with a clear aim of improving the student’s
employability. For example; learners taking
A-levels participate in one or two short periods
of work experience or other work-related
projects in the workplace.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS - FOR NON QUALIFICATION ACTIVITY
Supporting learners to succeed on LSIS
excellence gateway
Narrowing the achievement gap, case studies
from LSIS excellence gateway
Jorum provides a huge range of resources for
tutorials produced by colleagues in FE and HE
Lesson plans and materials on a range of
topics linked to the development of personal
and social skills
Examples of good practice identified by Ofsted
A guide to preparing students for work
experience, with examples of how some
providers have responded to this
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
This could provide a framework for discussion at team meetings or within CPD events.
1. How will you prepare the learner for the work experience
placement, so they are clear about their responsibilities and
expectations? Who will be responsible for negotiating with
the learner to devise a structured learning plan with tangible
outcomes? What will this look like?
2. How will learning be assessed? Will the employer provide some
sort of reference or feedback on the learner’s performance
during the work placement?
3. How can placements be managed and supervised efficiently and
effectively to ensure that the experience genuinely supports the
student’s learning?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Enterprise education
Whatever the subject, schemes of work will need to be adjusted to meet the new focus on developing enterprise skills and entrepreneurship in all subjects. This would include activities to maximise the development of personal learning and thinking skills so that students are used to encountering enterprise activities in all their subjects.
Most providers will already have good links with local employers
and a clear understanding of patterns of employment in the locality.
There is an expectation that providers will increase this engagement
with employers and to extend the regional ‘road map’ of employment
patterns, including skills shortages, in the local area or region.
Increasing employer engagement with learners has already been
identified as a particular challenge. There is a need to increase support
from local business and community groups to provide learners with
opportunities to see how enterprise education is applied successfully.
TEACHING AND LEARNING RESOURCES FOR ENTERPRISE
Biz/ed - business education brought to life
EntrepreneurLIVE! Teaching Activity
BBC Dragons’ Den - Useful links to other
enterprise agencies including case studies. The
site also holds extracts from the popular TV
series
Examples from Higher Education
Ofsted good practice examples:
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
English and maths
As a part of 16-19 study programmes, all students who haven’t achieved a C grade in GCSE maths and English by the end of Key Stage 4 must continue to study those subjects. Almost 50 perecent of all students fail to achieve a grade C at age 16 in these two subjects.
Where GCSE A*- C English and maths is not immediately attainable,
students can study other English and maths qualifications such as
functional skills and free standing maths qualifications as ‘interim’
or ‘stepping stone’ qualifications on the journey towards achievement
of a GCSE.
In many cases, learners who enter further education with grade D
in maths or English, will retake the GCSE in year 12, (though effective
initial assessment of the relevant skills will also be needed to determine
the most appropriate qualification route) . It may be that those with
grade E or below will undertake a functional skills qualification initially,
with an expectation that this will prepare them for GCSE in year 12.
You may wish to consider whether or not, in the light of your
experience, there is a clear progression route between the two awards.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Level 3 qualifications in maths are valued by
employers and higher education institutions.
Learners who have already achieved grades
A*- C in maths will value the opportunity to
continue studying maths at level 3 to support
their progression.
USEFUL WEBLINKS FOR ENGLISH AND MATHS
Teaching resources for post 16 maths
Links to LSIS Excellence Gateway’s collections
of resources for English and maths
Thought provoking discussions about
Functional Skills
Detailed article with tips for planning learning
and assessment
Ofsted good practice examples
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will the initial assessment process be managed?
2. How do you use the outcomes from initial assessment to plan
each learner’s programme of work in English and maths?
3. In your organisation, would learners taking a course leading to a
functional skills award be adequately prepared for GCSEs the
following year?
4. Would you wish to make changes or additions to the learning
activities in functional skills courses in order to support
progression to GCSEs? If so, what and how would you do
differently?
5. To what extent will learners value this change? How will you
respond to those who question the value of retaking GCSEs?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Teaching and learning in A-levels programmes
Successful teaching and learning 16-19 year-olds includes:
• Creating reflective students;
• Fostering collaboration among learners through group work
and discussion;
• Using learning technology;
• Embedding English and maths;
• Supporting emotional or mental health difficulties presented
by students.
It is likely that schemes of work, learning resources and lesson
plans on these themes are already available to you within your
organisation. The sharing of successful practice among colleagues
may well be the most effective way of developing these.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Does your initial assessment process motivate by emphasising
the learner’s strengths?
2. Is it used adequately develop individual learning plans with
targets that are individual and specific enough for learners to
understand and have a record of their progress?
3. Do learning sessions take account of learners’ individual needs?
4. Do learners get enough constructive feedback on progress in
relation to what they need to do next to be successful?
Enterprise education
The significant change with 16-19 study
programmes is the increased focus on teaching
that consistently supports enterprise related
skills regardless of subject. No one single
model is recommended, but well thought-out
practical work-based projects related to main
programmes of study is welcomed by students
and are effective in developing their ability to:
• be confident
• be creative and innovative
• communicate effectively
• solve problems
• understand risk and reward
• respond positively to change
work as a member of a team
• use initiative
• take the lead when the occasion demands
Case studies of good practice in enterprise
education from Ofsted reports
Evaluation
As the new curriculum for 16-19 study programmes emerges, regular
review and evaluation will ensure that you are working effectively with
the new framework. You should consider:
The appropriate balance between the substantial qualification and
other activities in the learners programme.
Collaborative enquiry for is a valuable tool for mutual problem solving
in curriculum development. One approach might be for a small group
of teachers to identify key issues emerging from curriculum change in
their practice. For example:
• What specific changes to the curriculum are we making and why?
• How will we evaluate learning for wider personal, employability and
study skills?
• How will we assess the extent to which learners are making
progress in terms of their readiness for employment or higher
study?
Practitioner research is a well-established practice that enables
teachers and trainers to better understand the context in which
they work. It aims to explore complex situations in which the
practitioner has responsibility for implementing policy in ways that
give learners the best possible experiences. It recognises that in
these situations, the practitioner is the expert; they are best place
to understand and develop the specific context for learning through
structured, critical enquiry.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS
IfL is building a library of online resources
to support your continuing professional
development (CPD). As dual professionals,
IfL members are required to keep up-to-date
with the latest developments in their subject or
vocational specialisms as well as their teaching
practice. These resources will help you find
links to CPD opportunities through IfL and
across the further education and skills sector.
IfL- Resources to support your CPD
Teaching and Learning CPD resources
• Mentoring
• Brain science in the classroom
• Characteristics of excellent teachers
• Critical incident analysis
• Dyslexia
• Matching exercise
• Peer assessment of learning
• Speaking and listening
• Taking REfLECT to the next level
• Using mobile technologies
• Assessment for learning
• Differentiated questioning
• E-learning tools
LIFE 2: key compentencies in life skills
If you are looking for inspiring ways to help learners to be ready for
work and build links with employers, here are some resources you
can use within any vocational course:
IfL - LIFE 2 project
The contents of this publication may be reproduced in part, except
for commercial purposes, provided that the extract is preceded by
a complete reference to ‘LIFE 2 – Key competences in life skills,
Transfer of Innovation EC supported project, 2012. Published 2012
This project has been funded with support from the European
Commission. This publication reflects the views only of the authors
and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which
may be made of the information contained therein.
Geoff Petty - Inspiration and resources for brilliant teaching and
learning
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
talpa - Mobile learning in practice, a
toolkit for FE teachers produced by Tribal
education (PDF)
Youtube’s education collection
EEF - Interesting research that evaluates a
range of teaching and approaches and their
impact on maximising achievement and
progression for disadvantaged learners is
available (PDF)
Supported Internships
Supported Internships will replace foundation learning
programmes but offer opportunities for greater
flexibility so that each individual learner is able to take
an individual learning programme designed to help
them into employment, further education and a more
rewarding life. These programmes will offer young
people the chance study for relevant qualifications
where appropriate, but without the need to accumulate
unnecessary certification. Learning that develops
social and practical skills, as well as employability will
complement the work experience element that, in
most cases, will form the heart of the programme.
DfE - Supported Internships
Work experience
English and maths
Teaching and learning 16-19
The Supported Internships scheme helps young people aged
16 to 24 with complex learning difficulties or disabilities to find work.
The scheme is run by further education (FE) colleges, who work with
employers to:
• find a job that suits the abilities of each intern
• create a unique study programme so all interns can learn the
necessary skills to do the job
Study programmes include on-the-job training with expert coaches
responsible for supporting both interns and their employers.
Programmes can also give interns the opportunity to study courses
to develop other relevant skills, such as effective communication or
understanding money. The jobs are likely to be in catering, retail and
healthcare.
GOV.UK - Increasing options and improving provision for children
with special educational needs (SEN)
Detailed guidance on principles underpinning Supported Internships
as well as practical information for providers, is provided by the
organisation Preparing for Adulthood.
The overall goal of Supported Internships is for young people with
severe learning difficulties to move into paid employment. The
structured study programme includes on-the-job training provided
by expert job coaches, and the chance to study for relevant
qualifications, where appropriate. Job coaches are critical to the
success of Supported Internships. They provide in-work support
for young people which tapers off as the individual becomes
familiar with their role. Job coaches provide support to employers,
increasing their confidence of working with interns and helping them
to understand the business case for employing a diverse workforce.
Job coaches also provide support at the end of the internship for
those young people not offered a paid job.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Supported Internships reflect the
following principles:
• the majority of the young person’s time
is spent at the employer’s premises
• young people are expected to comply with
real job conditions, such as time-keeping
and dress code
• systematic instruction, a method specifically
designed to help people with severe learning
difficulties learn new tasks, is used where
appropriate
• both the young person and the employer
have support through a tutor and a formally
trained job coach in line with the National
Occupational Standards for supported
employment
• support continues after the course of study
to make sure that young people get paid jobs
and sustainable careers.
Preparing for Adulthood - Supported
Internships
Preparing for Adulthood - Job Coaching or
Supported Employment
Preparing for Adulthood - Valuing Employment
Now (PDF)
General guidance on good practice from
Ofsted research on foundation learning can
be found:
Ofsted - Lessons from the Foundation Learning
provision for the new 16 to 19 Study
Programmes
Ofsted - Progression post-16 for learners with
learning difficulties and/or disabilities
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will the interview and induction process ensure that
the learner understands the structure and purpose of the
programme? Has the learner received effective advice and
guidance?
2. Is the initial assessment process sufficiently diagnostic to
identify specific areas of need for individual learners?
3. Is the balance between the supported placement and other
activities in the learner’s programme appropriate to meet their
individual needs and aspirations?
4. Will the programme stretch the student? What are the
opportunities for progression in employment, training or higher
levels of education?
5. Does the programme offer opportunities for review and
changing track?
6. To what extent can your organisation offer good support and
guidance by staff and external agencies that can effectively
enable young people who have been disengaged from learning
to take up training?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Some useful case studies of good practice are
available:
Ofsted - The Bassetlaw Training Agency
Ofsted - Community Training Services
Ofsted - Economic Solutions (Skills Solutions)
Ofsted - Roots and Shoots
The AELP guide to Traineeships also gives
useful information and further links to providers
who have developed good practice
A checklist for work experience readiness
from AELP
The Preparing for Adulthood website has
detailed information on internships and the
role of the expert coach
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Work experience
A meaningful work experience placement that genuinely supports
vocational learning and generic employability is at the heart of each
Supported Internship. This will be tailored to the individual talents
and aspirations of each learner. The role of the ‘expert coach’, who
supports both the learner and the employer, is a complex one.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
A framework for discussion at team meetings or within CPD events.
1. How will you develop and support ‘expert coaches’, who will be
responsible for negotiating with the learner and employer to devise a
structured learning plan with tangible outcomes? What will this look
like?
2. How could you extend employer engagement in your locality?
3. How will you prepare the learner for the placement, so they are
clear about their responsibilities and expectations?
4. How will learning be assessed? Will the employer provide some
sort of reference or feedback on the learner’s performance
during the work placement?
English and maths
All study programmes expect that learners continue to improve English and maths so that they are as able as possible to participate in employment, adult life and the wider community. For young people following the Supported Internship route, further qualifications may be desirable but not appropriate if the priority is to consolidate and maintain existing skills and knowledge.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will the initial assessment process be managed?
2. How do you use the outcomes from initial assessment to plan
each learner’s programme of work in English and maths?
3. If functional skills qualifications are not appropriate, what types
of activities will genuinely support progression in real life English
and maths?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
English and maths may be more successfully
developed if embedded in other learning where
teachers and trainers find different ways of
helping learners to carry out practical tasks
independently, confidently and accurately.
USEFUL WEBLINKS FOR ENGLISH AND MATHS
NRDC - Excellent website for research and
resources on embedding English and maths in
vocational and general education courses.
Lots of information for extending your own
skills as well as teaching resources
Talent - A valuable source of teaching
resources for basic English and maths post 16,
many contextualised to work related learning
Links to LSIS Excellence Gateway’s collections
of resources for English and maths
GOV.UK - Article explaining the rationale for
reform of English and maths post-16
Great Learning - Thought provoking
discussions about Functional Skills
Lsect - Detailed article with tips for planning
learning and assessment (PDF)
Ofsed good practice examples
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Students learn through practical application and problems solving,
in an environment where they have access to tools, materials and
equipment.
• Successful teachers use a mixture of innovation and traditional
methods.
• They are skilful at questioning and developing language for maths.
• Their questions are varied and challenging.
If you are new to embedding English or maths into your subject
teaching, it might be helpful to seek mentoring support from a more
experienced colleague, if you can.
You may find a good starting point is to frame questions carefully
and listen closely to your learners as they explain the methods
and approaches that they use. When learners explain their ways of
working they are clarifying their thinking and gaining confidence.
This enables you to gain insights into their conceptual understanding.
You may also find that you are learning new approaches and a
reminder that in the adult world there is no one right way of doing
things. With collaboration, you can begin to extend your knowledge
of a range of successful methods that develop independence,
confidence and accuracy.
You may also wish to consider further study in maths or English to
raise the level of your qualifications and see expert teachers
in action.
Supported Internships programmes will build on the skills and expertise
that you bring to your learners. There is an increased focus on teaching
that consistently supports employability and preparation for adult life
regardless of subject. No one single model is recommended, but well
thought-out practical work-based projects related to main programme
of study, genuinely support the development of the young person.
Teaching and learning 16-19
16-19 study programmes are about making learning directly relevant to learners’ lives and the real world. As teachers and trainers you will recognise the value that school leavers place on the greater freedom and more adult to adult relationships that you foster. This increased courtesy, respect and trust from teachers, gives learners in greater confidence, self-worth, and motivation to learn.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Well-designed projects are welcomed by
students and are effective in developing
their ability to:
• be confident
• be creative and innovative
• communicate effectively
• solve problems
• understand risk and reward
• respond positively to change
• work as a member of a team
• use initiative
• take the lead when the occasion demands
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Does your initial assessment process motivate by emphasising
the learner’s strengths?
2. Is it used adequately develop individual learning plans with
targets that are individual and specific enough for learners to
understand and have a record of their progress?
3. Do learning sessions take account of learners’ individual needs?
4. Do teaching and learning activities develop skills and knowledge
for the next steps?
5. Are activities challenging and interesting?
6. Do learners get enough constructive feedback on progress in
relation to what they need to do next to be successful?
Research and evaluation
As the new curriculum for Supported Internships emerges, regular
review and evaluation will ensure that you are working effectively with
the new framework. You should consider:
The appropriate balance between the different elements in the
learner’s programme.
• What specific changes to the curriculum are we making and why?
• How will we evaluate learning for wider personal, employability
and study skills?
• How will we assess the extent to which learners are making
progress in terms of their readiness for employment or
higher study?
Practitioner research is a well-established practice that enables
teachers and trainers to better understand the context in which
they work. It aims to explore complex situations in which the
practitioner has responsibility for implementing policy in ways that
give learners the best possible experiences. It recognises that in
these situations, the practitioner is the expert; they are best place
to understand and develop the specific context for learning through
structured, critical enquiry.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
One suggestion for a collaborative enquiry
approach:
1. Identify three learners for case study.
Be specific in the choice of learners,
for example a sample of high, middle
and low achievers
2. Teach and, if practical, jointly observe with
focus on learners’ response and progress
3. Interview the three case study learners,
analyse their feedback, progress and
impact of teaching on their learning
4. Discuss the impact of the curriculum
change with colleagues. Be prepared
to make adjustments
5. Consider how you could disseminate the
findings from your research more widely
within your organisation and beyond.
Substantial qualifications – vocational qualifications
Most students on vocational qualifications will take at
least one substantial qualification which should take
up at least half of a student’s study programme time.
These qualifications should provide a direct route into
a trade or profession or a higher level course of study.
A key aspect of the substantial qualification is that it
offers opportunities for curriculum development on
a student-by-student basis so that learners can be
entered for more challenging qualifications and spend
time on work experience and enterprise education.
DfE - Substantial qualifications
Non-qualification activity
Enterprise education
English and maths
Teaching and learning in
vocational programmes
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Is the balance between the substantial qualification and other
activities in the learner’s programme appropriate?
2. How will the interview and induction process ensure that
the learner understands the structure and purpose of the
programme? Has the learner received effective advice and
guidance to select the most appropriate qualification?
3. Is the initial assessment process sufficiently diagnostic to
identify specific areas of need for individual learners?
4. Does the qualification provide progression at A-level beyond
the learner’s prior attainment? Will it stretch the student? What
are the opportunities for progression in employment, training or
higher levels of education?
5. Is the qualification recognised by higher education institutions
and/or the relevant trade or professional body?
6. Does the programme offer opportunities for review and
changing track?
7. To what extent can your organisation offer good support and
guidance by staff and external agencies that can effectively
enable young people who have been disengaged from learning
to return to study?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS
National careers service
Career opportunities in STEM subjects
Award board websites provide a rich source
on information on substantial qualifications
Non-qualification activity
Non-qualification activities aim to develop the skills, attitude and confidence to support progression through work experience and other enrichment activities. Most A-level programmes will already cover some of the new requirements through the inclusion of non-qualification activity such as tutorial, work to develop personal or study skills and guidance for progression into employment or higher education.
Examples of non-qualification activity in vocational programmes
might include:
• Enterprise projects – employers setting business briefs for learners
to solve. This type of activity encourages team working, leadership,
good communication, working to deadlines, problem solving and
requires an understanding of business finance
• Mentoring – employers providing one-to-one encouragement and
support to learners
• Work shadowing – giving learners the opportunity to observe staff in
real working environments
• Workshops – employers leading discussions with learners, on
school, college or employer premises, about the realities of work.
Work experience
A work experience placement will form
an integral part of each learner’s study
programme. Work experience could
encompass a range of activities in the
workplace that develop skills, knowledge
and understanding of different skill sectors,
with a clear aim of improving the student’s
employability. For example; learners taking
vocational qualifications, experience one or
more substantial placements relating to the
main topic of study which include study-related
projects in the workplace.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS - FOR NON QUALIFICATION ACTIVITY
Supporting learners to succeed on LSIS
excellence gateway
Narrowing the achievement gap, case studies
from LSIS excellence gateway
Jorum provides a huge range of resources for
tutorials produced by colleagues in FE and HE
ACFE - Lesson plans and materials on a range
of topics linked to the development of personal
and social skills
Examples of good practice identified by Ofsted
Ofsted - A guide to preparing students for
work experience, with examples of how some
providers have responded to this is (PDF)
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION Could provide a framework for discussion at team meetings or within CPD events.
1. How will you prepare the learner for the work experience
placement, so they are clear about their responsibilities and
expectations? Who will be responsible for negotiating with
the learner to devise a structured learning plan with tangible
outcomes? What will this look like?
2. How will learning be assessed? Will the employer provide some
sort of reference or feedback on the learner’s performance
during the work placement?
3. How can placements be managed and supervised efficiently and
effectively to ensure that the experience genuinely supports the
student’s learning?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Enterprise Educators UK
Enterprise education
Whatever the vocational area, schemes of work will need to be adjusted to meet the new focus on developing enterprise skills and entrepreneurship in all subjects. This would include activities to maximise the development of personal learning and thinking skills so that students are used to encountering enterprise activities in all their subjects.
Most providers will already have good links with local employers
and a clear understanding of patterns of employment in the locality.
There is an expectation that providers will increase this engagement
with employers and to extend the regional ‘road map’ of employment
patterns, including skills shortages, in the locality.
Increasing employer engagement with learners has already been
identified as a particular challenge. There is a need to grow support
from local business and community groups to provide learners with
opportunities to see how enterprise education is applied successfully.
TEACHING AND LEARNING RESOURCES FOR ENTERPRISE
Biz/ed - business education brought to life
tutor2u - EntrepreneurLIVE! Teaching Activity
BBC Dragons’ Den - Useful links to other
enterprise agencies including case studies.
The site also holds extracts from the popular
TV series
Enterprise Educators UK - Examples from
Higher Education
Ofsted good practice examples
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
English and maths
As a part of 16 - 19 study programmes, all students who haven’t achieved a C grade in GCSE maths and English by the end of Key Stage 4 must continue to study those subjects. Almost 50 percent of all students fail to achieve a grade C at age 16 in these two subjects.
Where GCSE A*- C English and maths is not immediately attainable,
students can study other English and maths qualifications such as
functional skills and free standing maths qualifications as ‘interim’
or ‘stepping stone’ qualifications on the journey towards achievement
of a GCSE.
DfE - Study programmes for 16-19 - year-olds
In many cases, learners who enter further education with grade D in
maths or English, will retake the GCSE in year 12, (though effective
initial assessment of the relevant skills will also be needed to determine
the most appropriate qualification route) . It may be that those with
grade E or below will follow a functional skills qualification initially,
with an expectation that this will prepare them for GCSE in year 12.
You may wish to consider whether or not, in the light of your
experience, there is a clear progression route between the two awards?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Level 3 qualifications in maths are valued by
employers and higher education institutions.
Learners who have already achieved Grade
A*- C in maths will value the opportunity to
continue studying maths at level 3 to support
their progression.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will the initial assessment process be managed?
2. How do you use the outcomes from initial assessment to plan
each learner’s programme of work in English and maths?
3. Does your organisation have the specialist English and maths
teachers with the qualifications and expertise to deliver the full
range of qualifications? If not, how might local partnerships
support learner progress?
4. In your organisation, would learners taking a course leading to
a functional skills award be adequately prepared for GCSEs the
following year?
5. Would you wish to make changes or additions to the learning
activities in functional skills courses in order to support
progression to GCSEs? If so, what and how would you
do differently?
6. To what extent will learners value this change? How will you
respond to those who question the value of retaking GCSEs?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
English and maths in vocational learning
Vocational teachers who integrate the English and maths into
their teaching find that learners are well motivated and achieve
higher results.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How involved are you as a vocational teacher, in teaching
English and maths?
2. Are there different ways that you could develop in helping
your learners to develop skills to carry out practical English
and maths tasks independently, confidently and accurately?
3. What types of support are available to you to develop this
aspect of your teaching?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Many vocational teachers are successful at
embedding these skills because they have
the expert knowledge of the subject and are
able to find different ways of helping learners
to carry out practical English and maths tasks
independently, confidently and accurately.
In maths learning this can be particularly
effective. Students learn through practical
application and problems solving, in an
environment where they have access to tools,
materials and equipment.
• Successful maths teachers use a mixture of
innovation and traditional methods.
• They are skilful at questioning and developing
maths language.
• Their questions are varied and challenging.
If you are new to embedding English or maths
into your subject teaching, it might be helpful
to seek mentoring support from a more
experienced colleague, if you can.
USEFUL WEBLINKS FOR ENGLISH AND MATHS
NRDC - Excellent website for research and
resources on embedding English and maths in
vocational and general education courses. Lots
of information for extending your own skills as
well as teaching resources
NRDC - Particularly relevant article with links,
for vocational teachers new to teaching maths:
Cara,O et al. (2006) You wouldn’t expect a
maths teacher to teach plastering
talent - A valuable source of teaching resources
for basic English and maths post 16, many
contextualised to work related learning
NCETM - Teaching resources for post 16 maths
Links to LSIS Excellence Gateway’s collections
of resources for English and maths
GOV.UK - Article explaining the rationale for
reform of English and maths post-16
Great Learning - Thought provoking
discussions about Functional Skills
Lsect - Detailed article with tips for planning
learning and assessment (PDF)
Ofsed good practice examples
EEF - Some interesting research that evaluates
a range of teaching and approaches and
their impact on maximising achievement and
progression of disadvantaged students is
available (PDF)
You may find a good starting point is to frame questions carefully
and listen closely to your learners as they explain the methods
and approaches that they use. When learners explain their ways of
working they are clarifying their thinking and gaining confidence. This
enables you to gain insights into their conceptual understanding. You
may also find that you are learning new approaches and a reminder
that in the adult world there is no one right way of doing things. With
collaboration, you can begin to extend your knowledge of a range
of successful methods that develop independence, confidence and
accuracy.
You may also wish to consider further study in maths or English
to raise the level of your qualifications and see expert teachers
in action.
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Teaching and learning in vocational programmes
16-19 study programmes are about making learning directly relevant to learners’ lives and the real world. As teachers and trainers, you have gained learners’ respect through your secure subject knowledge and experience in business, industry or higher education. You will recognise the value that school leavers place on the greater freedom and more adult to adult relationships that you foster. This increased courtesy, respect and trust from teachers, gives learners in greater confidence, self-worth, and motivation to learn.
Successful teaching and learning 16-19 year-olds includes:
• Creating reflective students
• Fostering collaboration among learners through group work
and discussion
• Using learning technology
• Embedding English and maths
• Overcoming barriers to learning
• Supporting emotional or mental health difficulties presented
by students
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Does your initial assessment process motivate by emphasising
the learner’s strengths?
2. Is it used adequately to develop individual learning plans with
targets that are individual and specific enough for learners to
understand and have a record of their progress?
3. Do learning sessions take account of learners’ individual needs?
4. Do teaching and learning activities develop skills and knowledge
for the next steps?
5. Are activities challenging and interesting?
6. Do learners get enough constructive feedback on progress in
relation to what they need to do next to be successful?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Enterprise education
The significant change within 16-19 study
programmes is the increased focus on teaching
that consistently supports enterprise-related
skills, regardless of subject. No one single
model is recommended, but well thought-out
practical work-based projects related to main
programme of study are welcomed by students
and are effective in developing their ability to:
• be confident
• be creative and innovative
• communicate effectively
• solve problems
• understand risk and reward
• respond positively to change work as a
member of a team
• use initiative
• take the lead when the occasion demands
It is likely that schemes of work, learning
resources and lesson plans on these themes
are already available to you within your
organisation. The sharing of successful
practice among colleagues may well be the
most effective way of developing these.
Case studies of good practice in enterprise
education from Ofsted reports
Evaluation
As the new curriculum for 16-19 study programmes emerges, regular
review and evaluation will ensure that you are working effectively
within the new framework. You should consider:
The appropriate balance between the substantial qualification and
other activities in the learners programme
Collaborative enquiry for is a valuable tool for mutual problem solving
in curriculum development. One approach might be for a small group
of teachers to identify key issues emerging from curriculum change in
their practice. For example:
• What specific changes to the curriculum are we making and why?
• How will we evaluate learning for wider personal, employability and
study skills?
• How will we assess the extent to which learners are making
progress in terms of their readiness for employment or higher
study?
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
One suggestion for a collaborative enquiry
approach:
1. Identify three learners for case study.
Be specific in the choice of learners, for
example a sample of high, middle and low
achievers
2. Teach and, if practical jointly observe, with
focus on learner’s response and progress
3. Interview the three case study learners,
analyse their feedback, progress and impact
of teaching on their learning
4. Discuss the impact of the curriculum
change with colleagues. Be prepared to
make adjustments
5. Consider how you could disseminate the
findings from your research more widely
within your organisation and beyond.
Practitioner research is a well-established
practice that enables teachers and trainers to
better understand the context in which they
work. It aims to explore complex situations in
which the practitioner has responsibility for
implementing policy in ways that give learners
the best possible experiences. It recognises
that in these situations, the practitioner is the
expert; they are best place to understand
and develop the specific context for learning
through structured, critical enquiry.
USEFUL WEBLINKS
IfL is building a library of online resources to support your continuing
professional development (CPD). As dual professionals, IfL members
are required to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their
subject or vocational specialisms as well as their teaching practice.
These resources will help you find links to CPD opportunities through
IfL and across the further education and skills sector.
Teaching and Learning CPD resources
IfL - Resources to support your CPD
Mobile learning in practice, a toolkit for FE teachers produced by Tribal
education (PDF)
Youtube’s education collection
Sutton Trust - EEF Teaching and Learning Toolkit - Interesting research
that evaluates a range of teaching and approaches and their impact on
maximising achievement and progression for disadvantaged learners is
available (PDF)
Case studies of good practice in enterprise education from Ofsted reports
Niace mental health toolkit for Fe teachers
infed, a rich source of discussions on teaching and learning matters
16-19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
LIFE 2: key compentencies in life skills
If you are looking for inspiring ways to help
learners to be ready for work and build links
with employers, here are some resources you
can use within any vocational course:
Ifl - LIFE 2 project
The contents of this publication may be
reproduced in part, except for commercial
purposes, provided that the extract is
preceded by a complete reference to ‘LIFE
2 – Key competences in life skills, Transfer
of Innovation EC supported project, 2012.
Published 2012
This project has been funded with support from
the European Commission. This publication
reflects the views only of the authors and the
Commission cannot be held responsible for
any use which may be made of the information
contained therein.
• Mentoring
• Brain science in the classroom
• Characteristics of excellent
teachers
• Critical incident analysis
• Dyslexia
• Matching exercise
• Peer assessment of learning
• Speaking and listening
• Taking REfLECT to the next level
• Using mobile technologies
• Assessment for learning
• Differentiated questioning
• E-learning tools
Traineeships
Many young people are highly motivated by the
prospect of work. Traineeships provide preparation for
apprenticeship or employment for 16-24 year-olds.
They are specifically for young people who have a
reasonable chance of securing an apprenticeship or
employment within 6 months.
The substantial work experience placement with skills
training is at the heart of the programme, so genuine
involvement from employers is crucial. The placement
should be identified and agreed with the employer
before the trainee is enrolled. It is hoped that small to
medium sized employers will find it easier to engage with
traineeships than with full apprenticeship programmes.
It may be that dedicated staff will be needed to contact,
network and visit employers on a regular basis.
Trainees will also take English and maths, and work
preparation training that equips them to both find and
maintain sustainable employment.
Work experience
English and maths
Delivering learning sessions
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will the interview and induction process ensure that the
learner understands the structure and purpose of the traineeship?
Has the learner received effective advice and guidance?
2. Is the initial assessment process sufficiently diagnostic to identify
specific areas of need for individual trainees?
3. Is the balance between the substantial qualification and other
activities in the learner’s programme appropriate to meet the
individual needs and aspirations? How will it equip them for
progression into employment or an apprenticeship?
4. Does the programme offer opportunities for review and
changing track?
5. To what extent can your organisation offer good support and
guidance by staff and external agencies that can effectively enable
young people who have been disengaged from education, but are
motivated by the prospect of work, engage in training?
Work experience
Work experience will form the major part of each trainee’s programme.
We expect the duration of the work placement within a traineeship to
be at least six weeks and no more than five months. We expect the
lead employer for the work placement to be identified before young
people are enrolled on a traineeship. We expect all traineeships to
offer a guaranteed interview with the work placement host at the end
of the placement.
GOV.UK - Traineeships: framework for delivery (PDF)
16 - 19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
KEY WEBLINKS FOR TRAINEESHIPS
DfE - Traineeships
Very useful guides to implementing
Traineeships created by AELP
AELP - Study Programmes and Traineeships
AELP - Implementing Study Programmes (PDF)
A useful paper: Traineeships - Supporting
young people to develop the skills for
apprenticeships and sustainable employment,
published by DfE & BIS, explains the specific
requirements
OTHER USEFUL WEBLINKS
Supporting learners to succeed on LSIS
Excellence Gateway
Narrowing the achievement gap, case studies
from LSIS Excellence Gateway (PDF)
Active Citizens FE - Lesson plans and materials
on a range of topics linked to the development
of personal and social skills
USEFUL WEBLINKS FOR WORK EXPERIENCE
A checklist for work experience readiness
from AELP
Guidance on work experience from DfE
Examples of good practice identified by
Ofsted:
Ofsted - 16 - 19 study programmes
Ofsted - Good practice resource - Personal
development programme for apprentices:
Honda Motor Europe Limited
AOC/DfE - A guide to preparing students for
work experience, with examples of how some
providers have responded
For 16 to 19 year-olds on traineeships, work experience must last
between six weeks and five months, although it does not have
to be taken consecutively and may be made up of a number of
separate placements with different employers – as long as it adds
up to a high-quality work experience. At least one part of the work
experience must be of at least two weeks with the same employer.
Preparing the trainee for the placement will help to ensure that they
make rapid progress towards an apprenticeship. This preparation
should include activities to develop a work ethic, enthusiasm and
a willingness to learn.
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will you prepare the learner for the placement, so they
are clear about their responsibilities and expectations? Who
will be responsible for negotiating with the learner to devise a
structured learning plan with tangible outcomes? What will this
look like?
2. How can placements be managed and supervised efficiently and
effectively to ensure that the experience genuinely supports the
student’s learning?
3. How will learning be assessed? Will the employer provide the
guaranteed interview at the end of the placement, a reference
and feedback on the learner’s performance during the work
placement?
16 - 19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
English and maths
As a part of 16 -19 study programmes, all trainees who haven’t achieved a C grade in GCSE maths and English by the end of Key Stage 4 must continue to study those subjects. Almost 50 percent of all students fail to achieve a grade C at age 16 in these two subjects.
Where GCSE A*- C English and maths is not immediately attainable,
trainees can study other English and maths qualifications such as
functional skills and free Standing maths qualifications as ‘interim’
or ‘stepping stone’ qualifications on the journey towards achievement
of a GCSE.
DfE - Study Programmes for 16 to 19 year olds
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. How will the initial assessment process be managed?
2. How do you use the outcomes from initial assessment to plan
each learner’s programme of work in English and maths?
3. Does your organisation have the specialist English and maths
teachers with the qualifications and expertise to deliver the full
range of qualifications?
2. In your organisation, would learners taking a course leading to a
functional skills award be adequately prepared for GCSE?
3. To what extent will learners value this change? How will you
respond to those who question the value of retaking GCSE?
16 - 19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
Level 3 qualifications in maths are valued by
employers and higher education institutions.
Trainees who have already achieved grade
A*- C in maths will value the opportunity to
continue studying maths at level 3 to support
their progression.
English and maths in work-based learning
Vocational experts who integrate the English and maths into
work-based learning find that learners are well motivated and achieve
higher results. Many trainers are successful at embedding these skills
because they have the expert knowledge of the subject and are able
to find different ways of helping learners to carry out practical English
and maths tasks independently, confidently and accurately. In maths
learning this can be particularly effective. Trainees learn effectively
through practical application and problems solving, in an environment
where they have access to tools, materials and equipment.
How could you develop different ways of helping your learners
to develop skills to carry out practical English and maths tasks
independently, confidently and accurately?
16 - 19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS FOR ENGLISH AND MATHS
Talent - A valuable source of teaching
resources for basic English and maths post 16,
many contextualised to work related learning
NCETM - Teaching resources for post
16 maths
Links to LSIS Excellence Gateway’s collections
of resources for English and maths
GOV.UK - Article explaining the rationale for
reform of English and maths post-16
Great Learning - Thought provoking
discussions about Functional Skills
lsect - Detailed article with tips for planning
learning and assessment (PDF)
Delivering learning sessions
16 -19 study programmes are about making learning directly relevant to learners’ lives and the real world. As trainers, you have gained learners’ respect through your secure subject knowledge and experience of business and industry. You will recognise the value that school leavers place on the greater freedom and more adult-to-adult relationships that you foster. This increased courtesy, respect and trust from trainers, gives trainees greater confidence, self-worth, and motivation to learn.
No one single model is recommended, but well thought-out practical
work-based projects that underpin work based learning, genuinely
support the development of the young person. Well-designed learning
sessions and projects are welcomed by trainees and are effective in
developing their ability to:
• be confident
• be creative and innovative
• communicate effectively
• solve problems
• understand risk and reward
• respond positively to change
• work as a member of a team
• use initiative
• take the lead when the occasion demands
16 - 19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
1. Does your initial assessment process motivate by emphasising the
trainees’s strengths?
2. Is it used adequately develop individual learning plans with targets
that are individual and specific enough for trainees to understand
and have a record of their progress?
3. Do learning sessions take account of trainees’ individual needs?
4. Do teaching and learning activities develop skills and knowledge
for the next steps?
5. Are activities challenging and interesting?
6. Do trainees get enough constructive feedback on progress in
relation to what they need to do next to be successful?
16 - 19 study programmes - A toolkit for practitioners
USEFUL WEBLINKS FOR DEVELOPING LEARNING SESSIONS
ACFE - Lesson plans and materials on a range
of topics linked to the development of personal
and social skills
Examples of good practice identified by
Ofsted:
Ofsted - 16 - 19 study programmes
Ofsted - Good practice resource - Personal
development programme for apprentices:
Honda Motor Europe Limited
Biz/ed - Business Studies
tutor2u - EntrepreneurLIVE! Teaching Activity
BBC Dragons’ Den - Useful links to other
enterprise agencies including case studies.
The site also holds extracts from the popular
TV series
Enterprise Educators UK - Examples from
Higher Education