This course is designed for young people aged 16 to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan who are interested in hospitality, customer service and developing practical skills for future work.
As part of the colleges Moving Up portfolio, the course is designed for entry-level learners who want to build confidence, develop practical skills and continue their education in a supportive learning environment.
Learners take part in lessons focused on customer service and basic catering, alongside English, maths and digital skills. The course also supports the development of important life and work skills, helping learners become more independent and better prepared for future study or employment.
The programme combines practical learning with personal development, giving learners the opportunity to gain experience, build confidence and develop skills that can be applied in both work and everyday life.
- Entry Requirements, Units, Assessment and more...
Entry Requirements
To join this course, learners must be aged between 16 and 24 and have an Education, Health and Care Plan.
No previous qualifications or work experience are required. Before an application can be progressed, the Supported Learning department requires a consultation with the local authority to ensure the course is the right fit for the learners needs.
This process is usually supported by the SENCO at the learners current school, who can provide guidance and help arrange the consultation.
Assessment Method
Learners are assessed through continuous assessment throughout the year.
Progress is measured through practical activities, classroom work and everyday learning rather than formal examinations, allowing learners to develop and demonstrate their skills at a pace that suits them.
English and maths are supported through Functional Skills, with assessments completed when learners are ready.
Aims of the course
The aim of this course is to help learners develop the skills, confidence and experience needed for customer-facing roles, particularly within hospitality, cafes and retail.
Learners will develop basic catering skills in an industry-standard kitchen and take part in food preparation activities that support the college bistro. They will also build customer service skills through supported work experience, both within the college and with external organisations.
Alongside practical skills, learners will develop communication, teamwork and confidence, with a focus on emotional wellbeing and personal development.
Creative activities such as art and music are used to support confidence, self-expression and wellbeing, while digital skills, CV writing and interview preparation help learners prepare for future employment.
Progression Opportunities
After completing the course, learners may progress into volunteering opportunities, paid employment with support, or further study within Supported Learning.
This may include moving on to a higher-level supported learning course or progressing to a supported internship, depending on the learners individual goals, interests and readiness.
The course provides an important foundation for future independence, training and employment.
Facilities
Teaching takes place at Lewisham College within the Supported Learning department.
Learners study in classrooms and have regular access to an industry-standard kitchen, as well as art and music studios to support both practical learning and personal development.
Work placements are supported by the colleges dedicated job coach team, helping learners gain valuable workplace experience in a supportive environment.
Each group has a course tutor and a Learning Support Worker, with access to additional specialist support services including Speech and Language Therapists, safeguarding and behaviour specialists, and other support services where needed.
Quiet and sensory spaces are also available to support individual learning needs and wellbeing.
Career Options
This course can support progression into entry-level roles in hospitality, retail and other customer service environments, often with ongoing support.
Some learners may move into supported employment programmes, volunteering or further training to continue developing their skills and work readiness.
Career progression will depend on the learners individual goals, abilities and support needs.
