What If College
Isn’t For You?
A Study Programme of up to one year for ambitious 16–25-year-olds who want a more focused, practical route into their future career. Learn in small groups, gain real work experience and build the confidence, skills and direction you need to take your next step.
The Derby Study Programme is a fully funded, up-to one-year programme for young people aged 16 to 19 (or up to 25 with an EHCP) who want a different route after school.Â
You’ll learn in small groups of up to 12 learners, receive personalised support and complete a vocational qualification and gain work experience to gain real workplace experience.Â
Along the way, you’ll build employability skills, explore career options and prepare for your next step with confidence.Â
Study Programme Pathways
All pathways offer the opportunity for:
Focused Learning
You’ll be part of a small group of up to 12 learners, giving you a more focused learning environment where you can stay engaged, ask questions and make real progress.Â
Real Experience
You’ll gain practical work experience that helps you understand what employers are looking for and gives you something valuable to talk about when applying for jobs or future opportunities.Â
Your Future
This programme is designed to help you move forward. You’ll build confidence, develop employability skills and get guidance that helps you work towards your next step.
Fully Funded
The programme is fully funded, making it a practical option for learners who want a strong next step without the pressure of course fees.
A New Opportunity
One of India’s proudest moments was when the Study Programme Tutor asked her to go to Tesco for supplies. Although she had friends with her, it was her first time going to a shop alone. With the Tutor’s support, India learned to manage her anxiety, preparing for exams and helping her believe in her abilities. With support and determination, India has discovered that endless opportunities await.
Case Study: Meet India
Supporting learners is our top priority
Taking the first step and starting a new course in a different learning environment can be daunting, but there’s no need to worry. We will be with you every step of the way.
Anything is possible when you have the right team to support you!
Student support
At WS Training, we have a designated student support team, who will support you with your wellbeing and attendance. The team provide an additional layer of support with any challenges learners may face, for example: in applying for financial support, exam stress, sensory overload, communication barriers or emotional support.
You are not alone in facing these challenges; we’re here to provide the support you need.
Our student support services operate from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and you can reach us via telephone at 07940545858 for Ipswich or 07956385642 for Lowestoft or email at studentsupport@wstraining.co.uk
Remember, we’re here to help you thrive through your educational journey.
Next steps careers advice
Our qualified team of careers advisors work with you from the start of the academic year to think about your future and begin to plan what that may look like. They get to know you and what is important to you, setting clear milestones and goals. The careers team work closely with tutors to ensure you learn about different careers and opportunities.
The careers team will provide information, advice, and guidance to help you to make decisions. They will provide you with the opportunity to attend guest speaker sessions from employers, explore the options available to you and help you build a CV before exploring the job market.
If you’d like to plan your next step towards Further Education, the team will provide you with guidance on what to do next and support your transition.
Supporting Your Career Journey
Your Study Programme is the first step towards building a successful future. At WS Training, we provide personalised careers advice and guidance to help you discover your strengths, develop essential skills and explore opportunities in employment, apprenticeships or further education. Take a look at the infographic below to see how we support you throughout your journey.
For further careers advice and guidance, please contact our Careers Leader, Tracey Bedford, on 01284 788005 .
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Study Programme for?
The programme is for young people aged 16+ who want a more focused, practical alternative to college and are ready to start thinking about their next step.Â
Is the programme fully funded?
Yes, the Study Programme is fully funded for eligible learners.Â
How long does the programme last?
The programme runs for up to one full academic year, term time only.Â
Where is it delivered?
The programme will be delivered from the Workpays Derby premises, 4 Babington Lane, Derby, DE1 1su.
How many learners are in each group?
Learners study in small groups of up to 12, creating a more focused and personal learning environment.Â
Will I get work experience?
Yes. Work experience is a key part of the programme and helps you build practical skills, confidence and employer-ready experience.Â
How do I apply?
You can register your interest using the form on this page. A member of the team will then contact you to talk through the next steps.Â
Ready to take a different route?
Register your interest today and find out whether the Derby Study Programme is the right next step for you.Â
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