Thematic report |
Learner progress and destinations in independent specialist colleges
This report is published in response to a request for advice about the arrangements in independent specialist colleges for measuring learner progress and the extent to which learners are prepared for transition to further education or employment.
Recommendations
Independent specialist colleges should:
- R1 Make sure all pre-entry assessments are relevant to learners’ full range of needs including communication and behaviour
- R2 Make sure all ILPs:
- recognise the learners’ desired destination
- briefly identify short, medium and long-term measurable targets and set out plans to achieve these targets
- are regularly reviewed
- R3 Develop clear processes to set targets, and to assess, track, monitor and evaluate learner progress in independence skills
- R4 Develop processes to measure the value and outcomes of work experience
- R5 Reduce the reliance on generic worksheets to teach literacy and numeracy skills
Local authorities should:
- R6 Co-ordinate the information that travels with learners between providers and at transition points
- R7 Make sure that plans and processes for learner destinations beyond the ISC are in place early enough for there to be a positive outcome and a smooth transition
Welsh Government should:
- R8 Review the information requested from ISCs to make sure that it is clear and specific and includes a focus on learner progress and the learner’s desired destination, as well as achievement of qualifications