Personal Development for Positive Contribution 

The Personal Development for Positive Contribution learning pathway develops the potential of students as they prepare for adult life.  They are encouraged to be more independent and to make and learn from their decisions. Students improve communication and practical skills to prepare them for life after college.  

Personal Development for Positive Contribution students 

Students on this pathway have a range of physical and learning disabilities. They receive support on a one-to-one or one-to-three basis in the classroom, and when learning off campus.  

The PDPC programme lasts two or three years. It is available to residential or day students at National Star Ullenwood, National Star in Hereford (day) and National Star in Wales (day). 

Students who do well on this pathway have a willingness to undertake positive contribution activities in college and in the outside world, ready for life after college. 

Most learners have previous accreditation between Entry Level and Level 1* in a range of subjects. 

We can offer high levels of therapy input (Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy etc) to help students achieve their goals. 

Preparing for adulthood

Community Inclusion: Students will learn about gaining control over their lives. We encourage students to enrol on National Star’s successful Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and participate in the Student Union. Recent external community activities include working on local canal restoration and landscaping projects.  

College based positive contribution activities include: 

• opportunities to gain experience in customer service 
• helping with campus deliveries 
• supporting recycling initiatives 
• facilities maintenance 
• growing produce for StarBistro 

Employment / Meaningful Occupation: Students learn a variety of transferable skills in group and one-to-one settings. English, maths and digital technology skills will help them to navigate the ever-changing world. All students work towards improving communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and adaptability skills. 

Good Health: A holistic therapeutic provision will support both physical and emotional needs. Students’ programmes include both discrete, (such as aquatic therapy) and embedded (such as Speech and Language) therapy. Sport also supports mental and physical wellbeing and gives students the chance to make a positive contribution by planning and running events such as Sports Day and boccia tournaments.  

Independent / Interdependent Living Skills: Students take control of their daily routines, develop budgeting skills and planning where they want to live in the future. Digital skills are a key component for learning.  

Learning activities 

Young people work towards achieving their future goals on this pathway. Many have already begun to develop their independence and wish to continue to explore how they can contribute to society post-college. For example, volunteering at a community group is a clear aim for many students. They explore a variety of interests and activities to plans for their future.  

Learning activities are personal to each student and may include:  

• Art / Expressive Arts  
• Music  
• English and maths
• Digital skills 
• Outdoor Learning  
• Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, including the Young Leaders’ Programme  
• Staying safe online and in the community (Prevent)  
• Sport/dance/fitness/movement 
• Social Enterprise eg. StarPrint and StarGolf 
• Life skills such as budgeting, shopping, healthy eating and food preparation 

How will learning be assessed? 

Students’ starting points are identified and confirmed in a variety of ways with the help of initial assessment and previous qualifications. 

During their first half term, the skills of students will be observed and assessed against their current EHCP outcomes. 

Student progress is reported termly and student feedback sessions about college are also conducted on a termly basis. All students have regular reviews of their progress in line with annual Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) reviews. 

Most students on this pathway work towards OCR Life and Living Skills and City & Guilds Personal & Social Skills accreditation.