Rated Ofsted ‘Good’, we deliver Further Education in Suffolk for learners aged 16–25, including those with an EHCP or SEND. Our centres in Ipswich, Lowestoft, and Haverhill offer a range of programmes, browse through them to find the one that suits your goals.
Further Education in Suffolk
SEND Provision
Educational
Programmes
Learn and improve your work and life skills
As a provider of Further Education in Suffolk, we strive to offer an ambitious curriculum tailored to each learner’s individual needs and interests, while preparing them for their next steps in life and work. Depending on the pathway they choose, learners can expect to:
- Enhance their soft skills (independence, social skills)
- Attend Personal Social Health and Economic (PSHE) sessions
- Progress towards and achieve qualifications (English, mathematics and vocational)
- Gain valuable work experience
Our Facebook page is the go-to place to see how we deliver Further Education in Suffolk.
Educational programmes
Personal Progress (SEND)
- This programme is for individuals aged 16-18 or up to the age of 25 with an EHCP.
- It is suitable for learners with moderate to severe learning difficulties/disabilities.
- The curriculum is tailored to the learners’ unique learning and developmental requirements.
- Takes steps to develop social interaction and make a smooth transition into adulthood.
- Learners work towards achieving an accredited qualification.
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Vocational Studies
- This programme is for individuals aged 16-18 or up to the age of 25 with an EHCP.
- The curriculum is tailored to the learners’ unique learning and developmental requirements.
- Learners will participate in weekly PSHE lessons, gain a vocational qualification, and work towards their functional skills in English and mathematics.
- This programme will prepare learners for their next steps into further education or employment.
Next Steps
- This programme is for individuals aged 16-18.
- Learners will experience a work placement, which enables them to gain the practical skills that employers are looking for.
- The programme incorporates work-related activities and is tailored to the learners’ unique learning and developmental requirements.
- Learners will work towards achieving functional skills in English and mathematics.
- Learners will typically spend a minimum of 3 days a week on the programme, which includes a minimum of 1 day with an employer.
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Supported Internships
- This programme is for individuals aged 16-25 with an EHCP.
- Learners will gain work experience on a weekly basis through a minimum of a 6-month placement.
- All learners are required to attend the centre 1 day a week to work on EHCP outcomes and employability skills.
- Access to ongoing tailored support with a professional job coach.
- Develop vocational skills from a range of sectors.
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Looking for Further Education in Suffolk?
Discover the support we offer through our programmes…
We care about each of our learners, which is why we provide the following support through out our programmes:
How to apply
Step 1: Initial meeting
Once you have made your enquiry, you will be invited to visit our learning centre and have an initial discussion. This provides you and the admissions team with a chance to ask questions and get to know each other. Once an enquiry is made, the panel process will begin, where members of staff decide whether WS Training can meet your needs. If successful, an application link will be sent, and the enrolment process will start.
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Step 2: Documents required
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
To submit your application to the panel we will need your full legal name, DOB, any education documents including EHCP, behaviour plans, youth justice reports, and educational psychologist reports or other documents relevant to your educational experience. Please be aware we may contact previous settings and Suffolk County Council (SCC) to obtain these.
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Step 3: Selection process
The selection process goes through a panel of six staff, who will discuss each applicant on topics including individual requirements, interests, potential progress, safety and all other relevant needs. The panel will then vote to see if we can meet all the needs of the applicant. If your application is successful, you will receive an official acceptance via email. The panel convenes weekly; however, you should hear within 10 days of your application or 14 days after a consultation.
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A well-rounded approach to skills development
We help learners develop a wide range of skills. From IT skills and enrichment activities to gaining valuable work experience, we acknowledge that every individual has their own strengths and areas for growth. This balanced approach supports learners to further develop skills in all areas, preparing them for future success.
Case Study: Meet India
A learner who benefited from Further Education in Suffolk.
Supporting learners is our top priority
Taking the first step and starting a new course in a different learning environment can be daunting, but there’s no need to worry. We will be with you every step of the way.
Anything is possible when you have the right team to support you!
Student support
At WS Training, we have a designated student support team, who will support you with your wellbeing and attendance. The team provide an additional layer of support with any challenges learners may face, for example: in applying for financial support, exam stress, sensory overload, communication barriers or emotional support.
You are not alone in facing these challenges; we’re here to provide the support you need.
Our student support services operate from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and you can reach us via telephone at 07940545858 for Ipswich or 07956385642 for Lowestoft or email at studentsupport@wstraining.co.uk
Remember, we’re here to help you thrive through your educational journey.
Next steps careers advice
Our qualified team of careers advisors work with you from the start of the academic year to think about your future and begin to plan what that may look like. They get to know you and what is important to you, setting clear milestones and goals. The careers team work closely with tutors to ensure you learn about different careers and opportunities.
The careers team will provide information, advice, and guidance to help you to make decisions. They will provide you with the opportunity to attend guest speaker sessions from employers, explore the options available to you and help you build a CV before exploring the job market.
If you’d like to plan your next step towards Further Education, the team will provide you with guidance on what to do next and support your transition.
Meet our Managers
Chloe Barnett
Head of Education
Kerrie Taylor
Ipswich Centre Manager
Carl Rogers
Lowestoft Centre Manager
Jacqui Singleton
Haverhill Centre Manager
FAQs
What do I need to know about Financial Aid?
The 16-19 Bursary Fund offers help to learners to continue in education, who might otherwise be financially disadvantaged. Please contact our student support team who can assist you further.
How many people are there in a class?
We keep class sizes small to maximise learning potential. On average, classes range from 8 – 12 learners.
What welfare and pastural support services are available?
We have a dedicated student support team available to discuss any pastoral support you may require. They focus on your general well-being, mental health, attendance, safeguarding and can support with bursaries.
What qualifications do I need to achieve if I failed GCSE English & maths?
We offer Vocational Studies and functional skills qualifications ranging from Entry 1 to Level 2 functional skills in English and mathematics. A functional skills achievement at Level 2 is the equivalent of GCSE Grade 4.
Can I return to WS Training after my course has ended?
We do our best to discuss a pathway with you when you first enrol as a learner. We will let you know how long you are likely to stay with us. Most learners stay with us for two to three years. If an additional course with us provides you with continued progress and can build upon your previous learning, then an additional year may be offered.
Is there a chance to visit the centre before applying?
Yes, you can contact the admissions team, and they’ll help you organise a visit to our learning centre.
What clothing and other items are required for placements?
Sensible clothing suitable for the work at the placement is required. Any Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be supplied. Consider appropriate clothing for various weather conditions, such as waterproof jackets, wellies, hats, gloves if required.
Do you provide lunch for learners?
Learners need to bring in their own lunch. We do have facilities to heat up food if required. All centres are located close to local shops. Ipswich has a sandwich company visit each day, which learners can purchase lunch from. With parental permission, learners are permitted off-site during breaks and lunch times.
When can I enrol?
Once you have completed an application form, a date for enrolment will be agreed and you will be advised of a start date through this process.
If you are a local authority wishing to consult with us for a supported learning application, then please email your request to applications@wstraining.co.uk
Do I have to have an EHCP to apply?
You do not need to have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP); however, you must be aged 16-18 years old. We are committed to inclusivity and welcome all applicants who are eager to learn and progress in their chosen field. If you are aged 19 to 25 years old and have an EHCP, we will work closely with you to ensure that your individual needs are met throughout your time with us.
