King’s Reach Training Centres
Education
King’s Reach Training Centres are Key Stage 4 Alternative Curriculum provisions providing a dynamic approach to education for both boys and girls. Many of our students were not suited to mainstream schooling and have been referred to us so that they can access more appropriate educational provisions. The Training Centres are currently commissioned by Kent County Council and form part of the Maidstone & Malling Pupil Referral Unit (PRU).
Pastoral Care
King’s Reach believes Pastoral Care is important for each student, to ensure their personal, spiritual and social wellbeing.
Trusting relationships with the students are at the heart of the King’s Reach ethos and part of this is to ensure that students have the time and space to discuss any difficulties they are experiencing.
Qualifications Offered
In the next academic year we are planning to use a series of qualifications in line with Foundation Learning. These are targeted at the level of ability of each student and encompass Functional Skills in English, Maths and ICT coupled with both vocational and personal and social development modules. The qualifications chosen are on the Section 96 framework and will map into an individualised learning programme for each student. We will be delivering WJEC Functional Skills and, depending on the client group, there are a variety of PSD and vocational qualifications including the Arts and Sport to choose from. Students complete initial assessments on entry and are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that any social or academic issues are addressed and assistance is provided to help them achieve and progress.
English, Maths and ICT
A thorough grounding in English, Maths and ICT is a vital part of preparing students for life beyond school. Many of our students have had negative experiences of formal education. As a result our Alternative Curriculum embeds this vital knowledge and skills in practical activities to enable students to engage, understand and achieve. Although many of our students will focus on Entry Level qualifications, support is provided to enable leaners to obtain Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications which include GCSEs in Maths and English.
Vocational Learning
King’s Reach offers practical and vocational opportunities for all students. As an introductory course we provide an NCFE Level 1 award in creative crafts using wood craft. For those students who have an aptitude and interest in working with wood we will be offering a diploma through City and Guilds. Our vocational tutor is an RSA internal verifier, has training in City and Guilds in Carpentry and Joinery and Portable Tools and NVQ level 3 qualifications in Wood Occupations and Training and Development. These, as well as over 30 years experience as a tradesman enable him to offer further courses and practical experiences in brick laying, plumbing, painting and decorating, and roofing and tiling. We base the choice of courses provided on students needs and interests and we offer individualised vocational course and work experience timetables.
Personal and Social Development
Personal and Social Development (PSD) is a vital subject area in the curriculum where leaners are equipped with essential life skills and knowledge. The content is derived from the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) but is expanded upon according to the student’s circumstances and choices facing them personally. PSD is delivered as a stand alone subject but is also embedded in one to one discussions with students, key work sessions and restorative justice sessions. The course content is varied and relevant and covers units including sexual health, time management and health and safety at work.
Art and Design
The Qualifications available for the visual arts comprise 1 and 2 year GCSE level courses which cover a range of art and design practices giving the students the opportunity to explore relevant and engaging themes. The GCSEs are designed to challenge learners to grow their practical skills and abilities and to motivate students to become creative practitioners and learners.
Alongside GCSEs there are a range of courses at entry levels 1,2 and 3. These qualifications seek to build confidence and develop basic skills for students that have an interest in art but have little or no experience in creative practice. Entry level courses provide a stepping stone for learners to progress to higher level courses such as GCSE.
Music
Courses are available in music technology, performance and instrumentation at Entry levels 1,2 and 3 and at GCSE level for students ready to progress to more advanced learning. The content and structure
of the courses aim to make music production accessible to our students focusing on contemporary forms of music and technology. With a flexible approach students of all abilities are able to engage in the creative side of music production gaining the skills that they need for an accredited outcome.
Sport
King’s Reach delivers a variety of traditional and adventure sports for all abilities and interests including boxing, football, rugby, cricket, athletics, hiking and kayaking.
Our sports curriculum is backed by several different qualifications that range from Entry Level 3 through to level 1. These are designed to be practical and engaging, meeting the needs of the learner and providing accredited outcomes that open doors into further education.