- Go back
We believe college should be a place where everyone can access education that’s right for them, in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
This is a place you will feel supported and able to succeed, whatever your background or personal circumstances.
We’re here to help unlock your potential and build a future that’s bright, brilliant and full of possibilities. That’s why our Progression Curriculum offers flexible and tailored ways of learning to suit every need.
With specialist support, expert SEND teachers and learning facilitators available, we work with you to support your individual needs and help you belong and thrive.
Supportive and inclusive learning opportunities for young people with
Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Quick links...
YOUR STARTING POINT...
College Ready
College Ready is a two-day pre-college course which will help you to familiarise yourself with our supportive college environment.
During College Ready, you’ll:
- Take part in fun team building activities
- Experience vocational tasters
- Make new friends
- Meet teachers and support staff
This course is designed to help you feel more confident and prepared for starting college.
STEPS TO...
Foundation Programmes
Looking for a course to take you to the next step? Maybe you didn’t enjoy school, you didn’t get the grades you hoped for, or you’re unsure about what to do next? Our foundation programmes offer an opportunity to sample subjects that interest you and provide a route to higher level courses or apprenticeships.
What level is the course?
Our courses are offered at Entry 2/3 and Level 1.
What does it involve?
You will:
- Sample areas of interest within a chosen subject
- Develop employability skills to help prepare you for work
- Study English, maths, digital literacy and citizenship
- Develop enterprise skills through engaging activities
- Take part in work experience to build skills and make connections
What do I need to get onto the course?
No formal entry requirements.
If I successfully complete my course, what can I do after?
Progress to:
- Higher level courses
- Apprenticeships
- Employment
| Campus | Courses Available: |
| Altrincham Campus | Digital Media and Marketing Hospitality and Catering Sport, Leisure and Fitness |
| Stretford Campus | Creative Arts and Media* Hair and Beauty – Stretford campus*Motor Vehicle* |
| Cheadle College | Business and Enterprise Digital, Media and MarketingHorticulture Sport, Leisure and Fitness |
| Stockport College | Construction Multi-Skills* Creative Arts and Media* Hair and Beauty* Motor Vehicle* |
TAILORED COURSES
Available at Altrincham Campus and Cheadle College Campus.
We offer a range of other tailored options to support everyone and provide options into college life and learning – there’s a starting point for everyone.
For learners who require extra support around sensory pressures, emotional regulation, and confidence.
Virtual Horizons
Virtual Horizons uses immersive (VR) technology to provide young people with SEND with engaging, accessible experiences that build confidence, independence, and Life Skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Learners can experience real life situations and develop confidence at their own pace. It supports emotional regulation by offering calming environments and reducing some of the sensory pressures that young people experience in traditional settings.
For students with EHCPs
Not quite ready for a full-time course?
Step into Learning
Step into Learning is designed for young people who are undecided about their future career and don’t feel ready to access a full-time course or need support to enter the world of work.
This 10 week, 10 hour course supports young people who have been disengaged from learning, helping to remove barriers to participation and re-integrate into a learning environment.
Learning beyond the classroom…
Blended Learning
Our Blended Learning Programme is for young people who are unable to access learning on-site due to health issues. This mixed-delivery programme will help you overcome barriers to learning, with the ultimate aim of supporting your transition to on-site learning.
Your curriculum will be planned alongside a parallel on-site course, allowing a blended approach and the opportunity to attend in-person sessions when you feel confident to do so.
For students with EHCPs
For students who have been unable to engage with education due to emotionally based school non-attendance, or have specific needs around anxiety and an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), we can offer a bespoke programme to suit your needs.
Please enquire with our team today.
INTERNSHIPS
Available at our Cheadle and Trafford campuses
Supported Internships and Pre-Supported Internships are a great way to build confidence, gain real work experience and develop the skills employers are looking for. Designed for young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you’ll spend most of your time in a workplace, supported by experienced staff. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore different career paths, develop your independence and take your next step towards paid employment.
Pre-Supported Internships
Our Pre-Supported Internships, delivered in partnership with Pure Innovations, offer a college-based pathway for young people with an EHCP who aren’t yet ready for an off-site placement. The programme focuses on developing employability skills alongside meaningful work experience, helping to build confidence and prepare for future internships or employment.
Supported Internships
Our Supported Internships are based off-site with a trusted partner and provide a unique opportunity for young people with an EHCP to enhance their employability skills, in a real working environment where interns are treated as equals in the workplace, proving they are valued members of the workforce.
Our partnerships with Amazon and the Civil Service, plus more, offer
unique opportunities for students to experience the world of work and make connections.
Our employer partnerships offer valuable opportunities to gain real-world experience, develop employability skills and make important industry connections.
CHOICES
Specialist courses for EHCP Learners at Cheadle College
Our Choices provision supports learners with high needs and/or disabilities through personalised learning, life skills development, employability activities and specialist support.
STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES
Oscar Schache: Aviation Studies
Oscar has an EHCP for Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) and he faced significant challenges around emotional regulation and confidence.
Through tailored interventions, including 1:1 support, exam adjustments, and consistent guidance, Oscar built resilience and independence.
Now in his third year, he is on track to achieve Distinction Stars in Aviation Operations, with additional qualifications in Maths, Travel and Tourism, and Air Cabin Crew.
Ronan Anker: Supported Internship
Placements
Ronan completed his Supported Internship placements at Trafford
Town Hall, where he built admin and teamwork skills, then moved to Altrincham FC, where he now leads community sports sessions.
Personal goals
Ronan now travels independently and consistently shows professionalism and dedication.
Not sure which option is right for you?
Our team can help you explore the right pathway, support and progression opportunities.