At St Elizabeth’s Sixth Form, vocational learning is a key part of how we support young people to develop practical skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. Our approach combines meaningful on-site enterprise projects with supported off-site work experience placements, or for our learners in pathway 3 they will experience a range of external real-world opportunities which will include a range of experiential activities and trips, visits from organisations and the chance to take part in wider community events. This offers learners a wide range of opportunities to explore different interests and prepare for life beyond the classroom.
Our on-site enterprise projects are designed to give learners hands-on experience in real working environments, while building transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. Whether growing produce in our horticulture programme, learning skills in our on-site charity shop or creating handmade products in arts and crafts, learners take pride in contributing to purposeful, collaborative projects that reflect real-world tasks and responsibilities.
For those ready to take the next step, we will seek a range of off-site work experience opportunities with local employers and community organisations. These placements will be carefully matched to each learner’s interests and aspirations, and will be fully supported by our staff to ensure a positive and successful experience.
Through off-site work experience, learners have the chance to engage with the wider community, develop social and workplace skills, and explore potential future pathways, including supported employment, volunteering, or further vocational training.
Our vocational learning offer is always person-centred and flexible, with each learner following a tailored plan that reflects their interests, abilities, and ambitions. As part of a broad curriculum, vocational learning complements academic and life skills development to ensure a well-rounded preparation for adulthood.
At St Elizabeth’s, we’re committed to helping every young person discover what they’re good at, what they enjoy, and what they want their future to look like.