The Skills Department - Eccles Sixth Form College

The Skills Department at Eccles Sixth Form College is designed to help young people with learning difficulties, disabilities, or those who need extra support to transition into College. We provide a safe, supportive environment where students can prepare for further study, adult life and employment, helping them become valued members of the community.

Pathway to Independence

at Eccles Sixth Form College

This pathway is specifically designed for students progressing from specialist schools, providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment with small class sizes (of around 8 students). The programme focuses on building confidence, independence, and essential life skills, helping students develop the skills they need for a successful transition into adulthood.

Preparing for Adulthood Sessions, including:

Education and Employability – developing skills and confidence for future pathways.
Friendships, Relationships and Community Inclusion – supporting positive relationships, social confidence and active participation in the community.
Good Health – promoting healthy lifestyles, wellbeing and self-care.
Independent Living Skills – practical, everyday skills to support greater independence.
English and Maths lessons tailored to real-life situations, enabling students to apply learning in meaningful and practical ways.
A weekly tutorial offering personalised support and guidance.
An enrichment programme to enhance personal development and engagement.

Course within Pathway to Independence:

RARPA (Recognising and Recording Progress and Achievement) – 1 Year

Entry Level 1 Diploma in Personal Progression – 1 Year

Entry Level 2 Diploma in Skills for Working Life – 1 Year

Entry Level 3 Diploma in Skills for Working Life – 1 Year

Supported Internship Programme – 1 Year

Pathway to Progression

at Eccles Sixth Form College

This pathway is designed to support students with Learning Difficulties and Special Educational Needs who have previously accessed specialist provision within school and are ready to take the next step towards employment or further training. With slightly larger class sizes (approximately 10–14 students), the programme offers a more academic focus than the Pathway to Independence, while continuing to provide personalised support to develop confidence, independence and employability skills.

Students within this pathway build confidence and social skills as part of their learning journey. This provision is particularly suited to students who are capable of working at higher levels but benefit from a nurturing and structured learning environment.

Course Highlights

Mixed vocational options delivered twice a week, including:
- Animal Care
- Business & IT
- Catering
- Horticulture
- Retail
- Sports
English and Maths lessons, including functional skills and GCSE.
A weekly tutorial providing personalised support and guidance.
An enrichment programme to enhance personal development and engagement.