Integrated StudiesGlenys Tucker

Innovative programme as part of the learning support provision which is

effective in supporting students in the development of their literacy and

learning skillsOFSTED 2005

Planning of programme

Why an Integrated Studies programme Low GCSE scores Retention rates poor Increased numbers of students

assessed as having a learning difficulty

Males reluctant to attend support

Designing the programme WSFC has open access policy –

therefore students were accessing 4 A/S subjects with only 4C’s at GCSE

Students with low GCSE scores were finding studying 4 subjects difficult

Retention score was below national bench mark figures.

Designing the programmecontinued

A fourth subject was necessary to ensure LSC funding was kept at the same level per student

Students required a more supportive programme

Specialist support needed to be at the centre of programme

Designing the programme continued Academic and Learning Support and

Key skills (incorporates General Studies/Critical Thinking) Joined forces to accommodate programme.

General studies programme plus support = 4 lessons per week 4.40hrs

Incorportate IT Key Skills level 2 and 3 Support teacher in 3 out of 4 lessons

(Dyslexia trained)

What happened next!

Agreement with Senior Management Integrated Studies became part of

A/S programme academic year 2004 – 2005

Three groups x 4 lessons per week Approximately 20 students per group At least 6 students with a specific

learning difficulty within each group

What happened next!

All students assessed again via Quickscan if missed during course allocation.

Any student who’s Quickscan result indicated a learning difficulty was further investigated and full assessment for specific learning difficulty undertaken.

What happened next!

All students monitored carefully through individual learning plans and half termly reviews ensured ‘smart targets’ were revisited looking for progress or concerns

Specialist tutors and Senior Tutors kept up to date.

Year one evaluation Good progress made – retention improving IT Key Skills all students completed More sets required as increased numbers

of students identified as requiring this type of supportive programme

A2 Integrated studies required to ensure year two students continued to be supported.

Students more amenable to support Some students could be disruptive in class

owing to large number of males

Improved programme for 2005 - 2006 A/S and A2 Groups commenced Five groups now in operation Support still at core of programme Individual learning plans now

electronic to allow for easier input from support teacher

Reviews continue half termly – signed by student and teacher

Improvements for 2006 - 2007 Each group will have own specialist

tutor who is also their support teacher To increase support at pastoral level by a

specialist who is aware of Specific learning difficulties

To aid communication to other subject teachers, parents etc

To aid students completing College documentation through tutorial system e.g. UCAS applications

The way forward This programme has worked for our 16 -19

cohort. We are now looking to provide a similar

support package for our adult students within the Access course.

We will offer support and tutoring from a member of the academic and learning support team together with input from the Adult and Community Education Department