Learners on the Explorer Pathway follow a project based study programme at Entry Level 3, or specialise in a specific subject at Level 1 while gaining a well-rounded education through various strands of the curriculum linked to:

• Work Experience
• Independent Living Skills
• Enterprise and Employability
• Health and Wellbeing
• Community Inclusion
• Functional Skills Maths
• Functional Skills English

Study Routes

Entry Level 3

You can choose to study either an Entry Level 3 or Level 1 programme. At Entry Level 3, students follow a project-based study programme and will get a taster of three different subject areas, working on units to complete an Open Awards Certificate or Diploma in Skills for Further Learning & Employment.

Level 1 Vocational Studies course or Level 1 subject specific course

At Level 1, students can choose three subjects and study towards a L1 Open Awards qualification in Skills for Further Learning & Employment, or complete a single subject specific to your vocational area of choice.

The six areas to choose from are: 

• Catering & Hospitality
• Performing Arts & Music Production
• Sport, Health & Leisure
• Business, IT and Enterprise
• Creative Arts & Digital Media
• Outdoor Learning (Construction & Horticulture)

Entry Level 3 & Level 1 qualifications available:

• Open Awards Certificate & Diploma in Skill for Further Learning and Employment
• BTEC Introductory Certificate & Diploma in Art & Design
• BTEC Introductory Certificate & Diploma in Business
• BTEC Introductory Certificate & Diploma in Information Technology
• BTEC Introductory Certificate & Diploma in Creative Media Production
• BTEC Introductory Certificate & Diploma in Music
• BTEC Introductory Certificate & Diploma in Sport
• UAL Level 1 Award and Diploma in Performing & Production Arts

What can I do after completing the programme?

Learners on the Explorer Pathway can progress to either a Level 1 or Level 2 programme with the main focus on a vocational course and work placement, or a Supported Internship. Some learners have continued from the Supported Internship into employment.



For further information on the Explorer Pathway, contact the team on on 024 7642 6163 or email explorer@hereward.ac.uk