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  • Course Type
    16-19 Courses
  • Course Code
    PL888
  • Campus
    Conway Park
  • Start Date
    7th Sep
  • Level
    Level 1
  • Duration
    1 year

Our Stepping Stones to Further Education course is designed to support students with an EHCP as they explore and prepare for their next steps. By building essential skills in independence, employability, and personal development, the course helps students transition smoothly into a vocational further education course. Through a combination of practical learning and hands-on experiences, students gain the confidence and skills needed to make informed choices about their future, all within a supportive and inclusive environment.

Each student's journey with us will be tailored and structured around their individual EHCP outcomes.

  • Course Details

    • Students take part in weekly transition taster session across 20 different study programmes across all five Wirral Met campuses to help them to make informed choices about their future progression routes
    • Students learn to run their own home in our purpose-built flat, which is designed to be fully accessible and meet students physical and sensory needs.
    • Students learn Independence skills such as: how to manage your own money, self-care, shopping and travel.
    • Students develop their employability and customer service skills in our on-site catering enterprise.
    • Students develop their independence including accessing our local community.
  • Entry Guidelines

    An initial interview and assessment will ensure you are put in a class at the right level.

    Your EHCP must be reviewed to ensure that we can meet your needs before you are accepted onto this course.

    If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

  • Where can I progress to?

    Due to the high levels of support and the nurturing environment, this course is considered a good transitional step towards Further Education for many students from specialist provision.  

    Stepping Stones to Further Education study programmes equip students with the Knowledge, skills and behaviours to successfully progress on to:

    • Vocational study programmes within the college
    • Supported Internships.

Sophie

Prep for Life 

I am really glad I made the decision to study at Wirral Met to start my journey, and the confidence and friends I made for life.

Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.

I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.

I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.

Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.

I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.