Skills for Independence

This pathway is for students who have severe or complex learning difficulties and/or disabilities and require very high levels of additional support. The curriculum is varied and designed to enable students to make independent choices, develop their personal and social skills and to communicate effectively.

Within this pathway it also provides students with the opportunity to develop skills for independence and employment, and to work towards achievement of their own goals for learning, life and work.

Skills for Independence
LevelEntry Level
LocationColchester
Braintree
DurationOne Year
Study ModeFull-Time
Campus / Adult Skills CentreColchester Campus
Braintree Campus
Start DateSeptember 2027
Fee(s)16-18 year olds: Free
19+: Variable
Course Content

You will learn essential life skills needed for everyday living. Building confidence in areas such as personal care, communication, decision making, and management of daily routines. Preparing them for everyday life and community.

Course Content
  • Development of personal, social and communication skills
  • Supporting students to achieve increased levels of social and academic confidence
  • Development of employability skills through sheltered/supported work experience and/or enterprise projects
  • Adapting some curriculum activities to suit the interests and needs of students
  • Integrating a wide range of enrichment activities into the main curriculum
  • English and Maths (as appropriate to individual needs of students)
Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this programme, just the desire to work and participate in all activities

Career Opportunities

Following completion of the Skills for Independence pathway, it may be possible for students to continue their learning and progress with the pathway and to independent living.

Disclaimer

All fees, prices and funding information shown on this page are for courses starting in the 2025-26 academic year unless stated otherwise, and are correct at the time of entering/printing information, however these may be subject to change due to factors outside of our control. The College cannot accept legal or financial liability as a result of any such changes.

Courses fees are generally not confirmed for September until June / July due to the above factors.

The course information describes programmes offered by Colchester Institute. The College takes all reasonable steps to provide courses as described, but cannot guarantee provision. The information is for guidance and does not form any part of a contract.

The College reserves the right to update and amend information as and when necessary. Colchester Institute will do its best to provide the courses shown, but may have to modify or withdraw a course depending on customer demand and other factors.