Pathways to Independence SCQF Level 1

What is special about this course?

The emphasis of this course is on the development of life skills to enable students to access an independent lifestyle. The course will focus on the development of practical core skills for independent living within a task centred approach.

Educational support will be delivered by Orkney College Student Support Staff.

The curriculum adheres to the Curriculum for Excellence and aims to enable each student to be a successful learner, a confident individual, a responsible citizen and an effective contributor.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have the ability to:

  • Follow simple instructions
  • Have an awareness of and demonstrate respect for others in the group
  • Make a contribution to a group
  • Study in a classroom environment
  • Focus on a learning activity
  • Participate in a variety of group activities
  • Stay in a room, focus and participate in appropriate learning activities
  • Show interest and willingness to learn in a busy college environment

Each applicant will be interviewed to discuss the suitability of this programme for them and references will be sought. This course is suited to school leavers and young people with a variety of learning and support needs.

The following subject areas are included:

  • Communication 
  • Numeracy
  • ICT (Technology is also embedded in other subject areas)
  • Getting to Know Your Community and the Resources within it
  • Independent Living Skills
  • Horticulture
  • Cooking for Healthy Eating
  • Art and Design
  • Healthy Lifestyles
  • Joinery skills/DIY
  • Employment/Volunteering Skills 
  • Work placement/Volunteering (second year)

Students will generally be working towards Level 1, 2 or 3 units

How will I study my course?

  • Full Time

How long will my course last?

2 Year

Full Time - 17 hours a week of direct class contact over three days for 36 weeks.

Where can I study my course?

    • UHI Orkney, Kirkwall

Start date

August

Fees

Full time

If you are studying a full time Further Education course (NCs, NQs etc.) the College claims your fees from the Scottish Funding Council for students who are under 18 on the first day of the course. Students over the age of 18 on the first day of the course have to apply to Orkney Islands Council (OIC) for a tuition fees bursary.

Information on the tuition fees bursary is available on the OIC website.

Part time

Normally you are responsible for your course fees but if you are in receipt of certain benefits you may be eligible for a Part Time Course Fee Waiver. Not all part-time courses at Orkney College UHI are covered by the Fee Waiver Scheme and only certain benefits are acceptable as a basis for a Fee Waiver. Please contact the college to enquire.

If you are eligible, you may be entitled to an ILA of up to £200 a year towards a course.

What can I do on completion of my course?

The course aims to increase confidence and independence skills.  Students may be able to progress to further vocational training and preparation for employment or access other educational courses.

Is there more information available online?

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Apply for Pathways to Independence SCQF Level 1

I want to start in 2024/25

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at Orkney College UHI. Orkney College UHI operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.