Quarry Hill Discovery Programme

Course Information

Introduction

The Quarry Hill Discovery Programme is designed for students who are not yet ready to commit to one subject area on a full Level 1 course and would benefit from exploring different options while building confidence, skills, and independence in a supportive college environment.

This practical, hands-on programme allows students to experience a range of curriculum areas across our Quarry Hill campus and CATCH Community campus.

Overview

Students will take part in sessions including music production, health and wellbeing, performing arts, forest school, food preparation, 3D printing, journalism, animal care, and horticulture.

By trying different subjects, learners can discover their strengths, develop new interests, and gain a clearer idea of the career or course they would like to progress to next.

On completion, you’ll achieve an NCFE Level 1 Certificate in Occupational Studies.

Who is this course for?

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Are unsure which subject they would like to study
• Want to try a range of practical activities before choosing a career path
• Enjoy learning through hands-on experiences as well as classroom lessons
• Would like to improve their English and maths qualifications
• Want to progress onto a Level 1 or Level 2 course, Preparation for Apprenticeship, or employment

Course units/modules

Students will take part in sessions including music production, health and wellbeing, performing arts, forest school, food preparation, 3D printing, journalism, animal care, and horticulture.

Alongside the practical sessions, all students will study GCSE English and GCSE maths. These lessons provide the opportunity to improve important skills, gain recognised qualifications, and increase future opportunities in further education, apprenticeships, and employment. Support is provided to help every learner work at the right level and make progress.

Throughout the course, students will develop valuable personal and employability skills such as teamwork, communication, organisation, and responsibility. The programme is designed to help learners grow in confidence, improve attendance, and become ready for the expectations of college study, work, or training.

Benefits and skills

• Free travel pass for the duration of the course (subject to household income assessment)
• Meal vouchers and bursary support to help with the cost of studying (subject to household income assessment)
• Access to careers advice, counselling, and student support services to help you succeed
• Opportunities to take part in work experience to build confidence, gain skills, and make contacts for the future

Entry requirements

Two GCSEs at grade 1 or above, including English and maths

Ability to travel independently to our CATCH Community Campus

Successful interview to make sure the course is the right next step

A short reference from someone who knows you in an educational, volunteering, or community setting. This could be a teacher, tutor, youth worker, sports coach, or mentor. The reference helps us understand the applicant’s attitude, reliability, and potential for working with others.

Available apprenticeships and progression options

Progression opportunities

Learners will progress to higher-level programmes within a specific subject area.

Progression to our Level 2 Preparation for Apprenticeship for those learners who are looking for employment.

Assessment types

You will be assessed in a variety of ways designed to help you show your progress, including:

• Practical demonstrations
• Professional discussions
• Written tasks
• Peer and group assessments