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Vocational Foundation Programme

Level 1 Diploma

Course Location

College

Marple College

Location

Marple College

Further Details

Age

College 16-18

Department

Art & Design

Course Start Date

Tuesday 1st September 2026

Course Duration

Full-time, Years

Course Time

Course Fee

£ 0.00
You may be eligible for support with your tuition fees - please visit the college website - funding and finance page for further information

Course Code

MFP-ML2C-1100

Course Overview

If you are hoping to study an advanced Vocational or T Level qualification but are concerned you will not get the grades you need, we have created a new one-year programme for students who do not quite meet the entry criteria for their chosen course or do not feel prepared to start at Level 3, this vocational foundation will prepare you for your next steps.
The Vocational Foundation Programme will prepare you for the future and provide you with a direct progression route onto the full two-year advanced Vocational Programme of your choice, allowing you to begin your career journey.
We offer a range of levels that you can start your course at, depending on the grades you get at GCSE. The Foundation Programmes are designed at Level 2, a one-year programme to prepare students for Level 3 study and a career in their chosen sector. As part of this tailored programme, you will receive individualised support and opportunities to prepare you for your next steps. The course is made up of:
– Maths and English
– Health and Social care
– Creative Media
– Business and It skills
– Employability Skills
– Work Experience

Course Requirements

x4 GCSE’s at grade 3 or above

What you will Learn

You will cultivate creative thinking, enhance communication and leadership abilities, develop digital competencies, and work towards achieving personal goals.

Assessment

You will be assessed on a continuous basis.

Progression

Level 2 Health and Social Care
Level 2 Early Years/Childhood Studies
Level 3 Uniformed Protective Services
Level 3 Sport, Coaching and Development
T Level Adult Nursing and Supporting Therapy Teams
T Level Education and Early Years
T Level Legal Services Extended Diploma in Business

Career Options

Depending on the progression route you take after completing this Level 2 qualification. Career paths, entry-level job opportunities could be:

Health and Social Care: Care Assistant in residential homes, hospitals, or home care settings. Support Worker for individuals with disabilities or mental health needs. Healthcare Assistant in the NHS or private clinics. Social Work Assistant.
Early Years/Childhood Studies: Nursery Assistant in nurseries or preschools. Early Years Educator. Childcare Worker in daycare centres. Playgroup Assistant. Uniformed Protective Services: Entry-level roles in the police, fire service, or ambulance service. Roles in the military or armed forces. Prison Officer or Custody Officer. Security Officer.
Sport, Coaching and Development: Sports Coach for local clubs or schools. Fitness Instructor or Gym Assistant. Assistant in sports development programs. Leisure Centre Assistant.
Adult Nursing and Supporting Therapy Teams: Nursing Assistant in hospitals or care homes. Therapy Assistant working alongside physiotherapists or occupational therapists. Healthcare Support Worker.
Education and Early Years: Teaching Assistant in primary or secondary schools. Classroom Support Worker. Childminder or Nanny. Learning Support Assistant.
Legal Services: Legal Secretary or Administrative Assistant in law firms. Court Clerk or Legal Support Staff. Paralegal (with additional training or experience).

Mandatory Units

Unit 1: Maintaining Physical Health and Wellbeing
Unit 2: Appreciating Emotional Wellbeing
Unit 3: Developing Social Health and Wellbeing
Unit 4: Maintaining Sexual Health and Wellbeing
Unit 5: Investigating Personal Identity
Unit 6: Respecting Rights and Responsibilities
Unit 7: Developing Resilient Behaviour
Unit 8 Promoting Environmental Awareness
Unit 9: Being Financially Aware
Unit 10: Learning from External Experiences
Unit 11: Leading an Outdoor Learning Activity
Unit 12: Producing a Long-term Personal Progression Plan

Contact Details

For further information please contact T: 0161 886 7070 or E: info@trafford.ac.uk

Extra Costs Involved

Exam Validation Body

Hours Per Week

How Long To Complete

Programme Structure

Contact Details

Disclaimer

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.
READY TO begin your journey?

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