As well as academic learning, the College encourages learners to participate in a number of vocational opportunities and classroom sessions teaching different elements of independence, such as hygiene and cooking lessons in readiness for life after St Elizabeth's, should that be their path.
Sourcing suitable work experience placements for our learners are a key part of life at St Elizabeth's College. Over the years, College staff have worked hard to build good working relationships with local companies and businesses to enable learners to experience working life in a realistic environment. Throughout a learners time at College, staff will try to find placements based on an individual's goals, interests and aspirations, and provide support throughout the placement.
From the responses received from our graduating families, over the last 3 years 50% of our learners have gone on to independent living placements since leaving St Elizabeth's College.
Staff at our Specialist College also encourage learners to use their voice to shape their own and their peers experience of life at College. A key part of this process is participating in Learner Voice meetings, meeting every half term. During the meetings, learners are supported to discuss important issues and topics, and cast votes on outcomes. Topics include College prom themes, Christmas meals, health and safety issues and issues arising from their bungalows. Learners run democratic campaigns to become Chair each year, appealing for votes from their peers in order to take up the position. The Council also have their own Treasurer and Secretary, all voted for by their peers.
A reminder of the support available through Services for Young People (SfYP), and to highlight the range of projects currently available for young people.
We deliver youth work for ages 11–17 (up to 25 for care leavers and those with SEND), focused on building life skills, supporting wellbeing, and helping young people reach their potential and transition successfully into adulthood.
Our current projects at Bishop’s Stortford Young People’s Centre are:
- Youth Council - For young people who want to have a voice, share their views, and be involved in shaping their community or local services. It is an opportunity to building confidence, develop communication and leadership skills, and engage in group discussions and decision-making.
- Positive Pathways - For young people who are involved in, or at risk of, antisocial behaviour, offending, or criminal exploitation. It is particularly beneficial for those who would benefit from targeted support to make safer choices, build resilience, and develop positive coping strategies.
- M&M (SEND) - For young people with mild to moderate special educational needs and/or disabilities. This project offers young people a chance to build confidence, develop social skills, and engage in positive group activities in a safe and supportive environment.
- Youth Zone - For young people who would benefit from a safe, social space to engage with peers and participate in positive activities. This project focuses on supporting young people to improve their physical wellbeing, build confidence, and develop social skills, and to have fun while they do it.
We are keen to ensure young people are accessing the most appropriate support and would welcome any referrals or conversations about students who may benefit.
As we are part of Hertfordshire County Council, all of our services are Local Authority funded and free at the point of access for all Hertfordshire based young people.
You can make a referral to us here About Services for Young People
Please feel free to get in touch if you’d like more information or to discuss any young people.
