Young people with autism, mental health, and social & emotional challenges can access a range of specialist services at Hereward College to help them reach their potential.

Aspire provides a nurturing and supportive environment where learners are taught in small groups or on a one to one basis.  There is a structured and person centred approach to learning with a broad and varied curriculum.

Learners are supported by expert staff who are trained in specific approaches to autism, mental health, and social and emotional behaviour. They also access the skills of a highly specialist clinical team which includes an autism practitioner, clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, educational psychologist and a sensory practitioner.

The team analyse behaviours and create an individualised therapeutic plan to ensure young people have the tools in place to help them manage their own behaviours and anxieties.

What will I study?

Aspire learners access a varied study programme with options including:

• Accredited Open Award programme with bespoke quality endorsed units and flexible learning solutions.
• Flexible GCSE programme.
• Level 1, 2, or 3 vocational programmes which link into the main college Pathways with a tailored support package.
• Work related qualification in Customer Service along with literacy and numeracy skills.

What can I do after completing the programme?

The study programmes are centred on personal development and are a good starting point for vocational education and training. Learners may move from Aspire into the supported internship programme, into employment or move into one of the college’s pathway study programmes.

How do I apply?

If you are interested in learning more about Aspire, want to arrange a visit, or complete an application form please contact the Admissions team on 024 7642 6173 or email admissions@hereward.ac.uk.

What our students say

"I have become more confident being here and comfortable in myself. I’ve got better with talking to people and making friends, also I’m working well in lessons and I’m grateful to be getting back into education."  Aspire learner  

"Aspire has helped me a lot. My attendance has really improved since coming here. I get a lot of help and support, and all the staff really care about me and my education. I love my design project lesson.  I would like to get a job as a mechanic or a brick layer. The anxiety level charts have helped me to show how I’m feeling without having to explain."  Liam

"I feel like the staff here understand my condition and know how to help me better. I feel much more engaged in lessons.” Kieran