Student support
All Hereward learners have access to a range of support to ensure their learning journey runs as smoothly as possible.
Progress coaches
When you start college you are allocated a progress coach who has responsibility for monitoring your progress and development.
They will be your first point of contact for course-related help and advice during your time at college. Progress coaches provide one-to-one support, set medium and long term goals, provide regular reviews and organise parents’ evenings throughout the year.
Independent learning support (ILS) staff
Our independent learning support staff provide help either individually or as part of a group, both in and out of the classroom.
They provide practical help and physical support both in lessons and for private study. This might include reading, taking notes helping with research, organising files and coursework, and giving hands-on assistance.
The staff encourage you to do as much as you can for yourself to take control of your own learning and care, and will support with the development of communication, decision making and team working skills.
Onsite nursing team
Our onsite nursing team is available to support students with any medical needs. They offer advice on healthy living and help you develop skills to manage the impact of your medical condition on your day-to-day life and plans for the future.
Job coaches
The college employs a team of qualified job coaches who support learners into work-related activity.
The team arranges workshops, guest speakers and visits to job fairs along with participation in nationally recognised events.
You will start your employability journey as soon as you arrive at college, supported throughout your study by a job coach who will guide you towards personal and achievable targets with ongoing advice and support.
Job coaches work with local employers to help promote local work placement and networking opportunities. They will also provide you with careers education and guidance, and help you to transfer the skills developed at Hereward into the workplace.
Your job coach will support you with:
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Sourcing short or long term work experience opportunities
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Applications for employment
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Trainee and apprenticeship opportunities
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Sector and role based skills training
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Travel training
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Onsite workplace support
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Money management advice and training
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Supported internship placements
Financial support
Financial support is available from a discretionary bursary fund to help students with the costs of coming to college and costs related to their course; for example, sports kit.
To be considered for bursary, you will need to complete a bursary application form and provide evidence of eligibility. Free college meals are available if eligibility criteria has been met.
If you think you may be eligible for a bursary, you should apply via the application forms below:
Application for Discretionary Bursary Fund and Free College Meals Application For Vulnerable Bursary Fund (16-18 only)
Learners also have access to therapies, mentor support and a counselling service, depending on their needs.
“Leaders ensure that learners with high needs are supported effectively, through a range of strategies to transition into and out of the college. They ensure that transition activities support learners towards their next steps, including sustainable employment and independent or supported living. Subsequently, a high proportion of learners who are able to progress into sustainable employment.”
Ofsted report – June 2023