Transitioning Services
Arden College gives a lot of thought and attention to transition planning as we understand the importance of smooth transitions in maximising the young person’s chance of success.
We take a multi-agency approach to identifying need. Our staff team work closely with families and other agencies to ensure we make fully-informed decisions based on high quality, in-depth information.
When joining Arden College
We take time to gather as much information about the young person, and bring together everyone involved, to look carefully at the learner’s:
- Needs
- Abilities
- History
- Hopes for their time at college
- Future aspiration
- Likes and dislikes
This helps us to ensure we are confident in meeting their needs and enables us to plan ahead to get the required support in place.
We understand that many of our learners at Arden College have anxiety-based conditions, and therefore make suitable arrangements to minimise the stress and uncertainty of joining us. Depending on the individual’s circumstances, this may include:
- Transition meetings at college
- College taster days/sessions
- A short day programme, gradually building up the time spent at college
- Visits to their current settings to get to know them
- A key team around the young person so that they have familiar staff.
Moving on from Arden College
We believe that forward-planning is the key to successful transitions. This is why we start preparations around 12 months before our young people are due to leave. This includes regular transition meetings. throughout the learner’s final year with us.
When it comes to onward transitions, our focus is on supporting young people to make informed choices about their future, making sure they are on track for where they want to go. Where appropriate, learners will receive impartial careers advice and guidance.
Depending on the individual’s preferences and aspirations, their onward pathway may include:
- Supported living
- Moving on to employment (paid or volunteering)
- Moving on to further education
- Accessing a day care provider
- Being active in the community