Pathways

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A welcome from the Head of English, Maths and Pathways - Lyn Boreham

Hello and congratulations on your offer to study with us! We're delighted you've chosen to join our Pathways department at Capel Manor College.

Starting college can feel exciting, but it can also feel a little worrying. Many of our students tell us they were nervous before they started. That's completely normal. Our Pathways courses are designed to help you build confidence, learn new skills and prepare for your next step. Whether you've been home educated, found school difficult or simply want a fresh start, we'll support you every step of the way.

You'll study at one of our Crystal Palace, Enfield, Mottingham or Gunnersbury Park Campuses, where you'll learn in a friendly, supportive environment with staff who understand that everyone learns differently.

We believe everyone can succeed when they're given the right support, encouragement and opportunities. We can't wait to welcome you to Capel Manor College!

What makes Pathways different?

Our Pathways courses are designed to help you settle into college life at your own pace. You will:

• Build your confidence
• Make new friends
• Improve your communication skills
• Try different land-based subjects
• Work towards your next goal

Everyone's journey is different, and that's okay.

Our promise to you

When you join Pathways, we promise to:

• Treat you with kindness and respect
• Help you feel welcome and included
• Support you to build confidence at your own pace
• Help you discover what you're good at
• Celebrate your achievements, however big or small

Course overview

Our Pathways courses help you prepare for your future while giving you the opportunity to experience the exciting land-based subjects available at Capel Manor College.

You'll study a King's Trust qualification while developing important life, work and independence skills. Throughout the year you'll also have the opportunity to experience different curriculum areas such as horticulture, animal management, floristry, wildlife and environmental conservation, art and design and other land-based subjects, helping you discover what you enjoy and where you may wish to progress next.

Your tutors will get to know you as an individual and will support you to build confidence, develop new skills and achieve goals that are right for you.

Horticulture student at Capel Manor College trimming a bush with shears.

Modules and structure

Your course combines practical activities with classroom learning. There are lots of practical activities, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to learn by doing. Throughout the year you'll develop skills in areas such as:

  • Building confidence
  • Communication skills
  • Teamwork
  • Problem solving
  • Preparing for work
  • Independent living skills
  • Trying different land-based subjects
  • Setting personal goals
  • Planning your next steps
Two students sitting on the grass and enjoying the sunshine at Capel Manor College's Enfield Campus.

Equipment and uniform

You don't need lots of specialist equipment to get started. You'll also use computers during your course, and we'll show you how to use Microsoft Teams and other college systems if you've never used them before. Don't worry if you don't have everything on your first day - we'll help you. We'd recommend bringing:

  • Comfortable clothing suitable for practical activities
  • Sturdy shoes or boots for outdoor sessions
  • Waterproof coat
  • Notebook and pen
  • Refillable water bottle

Meet the team

Lyn Boreham

Nicola Churcher

Tanya Brown

Tilly Boswell

Jodi Wheeler

Preparing for study

There isn't any homework before you start! The best way to prepare is to simply come with an open mind and be ready to try new things.

Before September you could:

• Spend time outdoors
• Visit a local park or garden
• Practice talking to new people
• Think about what you enjoy doing
• Think about what you'd like to achieve this year

Most importantly...don't worry if you're feeling nervous. Many of our students feel exactly the same before they start!

Pathways FAQs

Yes! Almost everyone feels nervous before they start college.

Our staff will help you settle in, show you around and make sure you know where to go. You'll soon get to know your teachers and classmates.

We're here to help.

Many of our students receive additional learning support or have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Others simply need a little extra help from time to time.

We'll work with you to make sure you have the support you need to achieve your goals.

Yes. One of the best things about Pathways is that you'll get the chance to experience a range of land-based subjects before deciding what you'd like to do next.

Many students discover new interests they never knew they had.

Your Pathways course is designed to help you take your next step. Depending on your interests and progress, you may move on to another course at Capel Manor College, supported employment, volunteering, work experience or another opportunity that's right for you.

Your tutors will help you plan for the future throughout your course.

We hope so!

You'll work with other students in practical sessions, group activities and projects throughout the year.

Many of our learners make lasting friendships while they're here, and our tutors will help everyone feel welcome and included.

Have questions?

Speak to our Admissions team via live chat from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday or email admissions@capel.ac.uk.