Work-based learning

The work-based learning pathway includes the Skills for Work programme and Supported Internships.  Student-led, this pathway focuses on supporting learners to achieve their work-based learning goals.   

Alongside undertaking work placements students also learn softer employment-based skills. They develop a sense of self, master team-working and knowledge around the wider world of work. We build on previous learning and experiences and promote ambition and realistic aspirations. 

Work-based learning students

Our Skills for Work and Supported Internship programmes are designed to support students who may have been out of education for some time, faced challenges accessing education, would like to continue education without the typical education setting, or need additional support to achieve their work aspirations. Students attend the programme for one or two years.

Students may have a range of learning disabilities and may also experience mental ill health, social anxiety or other barriers to learning.   

The programme is four days a week. Students need to commit to attending all elements of the programme to get the most out of the curriculum.  Tutors and job coaches will support students to achieve a job or volunteering role after college.

Offered at National Star’s enterprise centre, Greensteps in Cheltenham, or in Thornbury, South Gloucestershire.

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

Delivered within a dedicated learning space equipped with classrooms, kitchens and outdoor learning spaces, this campus offers a variety of learning opportunities for students to gain employment skills and volunteering experience; in addition to supporting various student-led enterprise initiatives.

Thornbury, South Gloucestershire

Delivered in community spaces, these classroom-based lessons offer small class sizes and provide a nurturing environment. Students joining this pathway will need to be able to demonstrate that they are able to independently complete entry level 3 – level 2 accreditation.

Taster sessions

We frequently hold taster sessions for prospective applicants, giving them the chance to visit the classroom and learn more about our programs. During these sessions, potential students can meet members of the work-based learning team, learn about their roles and the support offered, meet potential new peers and engage in interactive activities.

Below are the dates for our upcoming taster sessions: 

Greensteps, Cheltenham, GL51 9SL

• Date TBC 

Turnberries Community Centre, Thornbury

• Friday 30 January, 10.30 – 12.30
• Friday 6 March, 10.30 – 12.30

To register an interest in attending a taster session please contact [email protected] and a member of the team will get in contact to discuss next steps.

Preparing for adulthood

Community Inclusion: Students will learn their place and role within their communities. They contribute to college activities and events and build networks within the local community.   

Enriched Employability: Students’ interests and sessions will help them learn a diverse range of skills for different work settings. They learn practical, working knowledge of English, maths, and digital technology. All work towards improving communication, problem-solving, teamwork, time management, and adaptability. 

Good Health: The curriculum supports both physical and emotional needs. Focusing on positive physical and mental health support, healthy lifestyles and wellbeing.  

Independent Living Skills: Students will take charge of their daily lives, learning budgeting skills, and planning their future.   

Learning activities

Students learn how to present themselves as a jobseeker, build a CV, prepare for interviews, research jobs and communicate with employers. 

In Cheltenham, students gain valuable work experience within the college setting, working at our various social enterprises including StarMart (shop) StarBistro (cafe), StarPrint (print shop) and our charity shops. This can involve them gaining customer service, hospitality and marketing skills.

In Thornbury, students learn how to present themselves as a jobseeker, build a CV, prepare for interviews, research jobs and communicate with employers.

Group and individual placements enable students to develop essential soft employability skills through practical experience, helping to build confidence and prepare them for future employment.

Work placements typically last several weeks and a student can expect to have many placements during their time with us. 

How will learning be assessed?

We decide students’ starting points with the help of supporting documentation, previous qualifications and initial feedback following assessment.

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

Progress is reported regularly and student feedback sessions are also undertaken termly.

Students accessing this programme will be working at entry level 3, level 1 or level 2. While on the course learners work towards various OCR accreditation in employability skills, customer service skills, and communication. 

Who do National Star work with?

Boulders, CCP, Cheltenham Animal Shelter, Cheltenham Festivals, Cotswold Farm Park, Cotswold Hills Golf Club, Daylesford, Double Tree Hilton, Emmaus, Everyman Theatre, Girl Guiding, Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester Guildhall, Gloucestershire Constabulary, Gloucestershire County Council, Gloucestershire Libraries, Holiday Inn, Lillian Faithful, Long Table, Queen’s Hotel, Read with Me, Slimbridge, St Oswald’s Residential Village, Stroud Subscription Rooms, Superdry, Tewkesbury Abbey.

We will support you every step of the way. Get in touch with our team by contacting a member of our work-based learning team: [email protected] / [email protected] or our Admissions team: [email protected]. We will help you to choose the right course for you.

Meet the job coach team

Our job coach team at National Star have a wealth of experience and expertise across disability support, skills development, work placements, and empowering students to succeed.

Meet the team

If you’re an employer looking to partner with us, contact us