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FOUNDATION PROGRAMME

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Want to study at Blackpool Sixth but not sure you’ll get the grades you need?

Our FOUNDATION Programme is the ideal option for you.

Blackpool Sixth’s Foundation Programme has been specially created to allow students to boost their level 2/GCSE qualification profile and prepare them for study at  Level 3, and for their future next steps.

As a student on our Foundation Programme, you will commit to a supportive but challenging programme that has been designed to help you develop as a learner. You will have the opportunity to achieve your all important GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths alongside other Level 2 qualifications and develop the academic study skills required to be successful at level 3. Pathways to vocational and combined programmes are available and we will offer individual guidance to determine which will suit you best.

COURSESPECIFIC GCSE REQUIREMENTSSINGLEDOUBLE
BTEC Applied ScienceStandard entry requirements
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BTEC Business Standard entry requirements
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Foundation Certificate in Digital Systems and Data Standard entry requirements
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BTEC Health & Social CareStandard entry requirements
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BTEC Creative Skills (art, design and media)Standard entry requirements
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BTEC Public ServicesStandard entry requirements
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BTEC Personal Growth and WellbeingStandard entry requirements
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What does the FOUNDATION Programme involve?

Level 2 Study Programme Overview: This programme prepares you for Level 3 study, apprenticeships, or employment. You will study 4 Level 2 subjects alongside academic study skills, pastoral care, enrichment, employability programmes, and a long-term focus on progression. 

How to Choose Your Subjects Your exact subject combination depends on your current GCSE English Language and Maths grades. We will guide you toward the most suitable options based on your entry grades and future goals.

If you already have a Grade 4 in EITHER English or Maths: Choose the Equivalent of 2 subjects and Personal Growth and Wellbeing. 

Check your Core Subjects: You must study GCSE English Language, GCSE Maths, or both if you have not yet achieved a Grade 4.

Select your Options: Add additional subjects from the available options:

If you need to retake BOTH English and Maths: Choose the equivalent of 2 subjects (e.g., 2 singles or 1 Double).

Details of all of these courses can be found on our website in the courses section.

What else will the FOUNDATION Programme include?

  • Pastoral Programme - all students are supported by a Progress Mentor at Blackpool Sixth. A PM is the student's champion and first port of call for any questions or concerns. They will provide guidance and support, and help you develop and plan for the future. You will meet with them regularly to discuss your academic progress, attendance, progression plans and will agree on individual improvement and development targets.
  • Academic Study Skills -  you will have the opportunity throughout the year to attend study skills sessions to help you develop the academic and organisational skills required to be successful both on the Foundation Programme and later at level 3. Sessions will consist of independent self-study and more targeted sessions that will help develop planning, organisation and independent learning skills. Throughout the year you will have access to a wide range of resources and dedicated staff who will help you build the skills that are essential to succeed at college.
  • Employability and Enrichment Programme - you will be supported to develop employability skills including communication, teamwork and problem-solving through a range of activities such as enrichment, volunteering and work experience.  You will also be supported to develop job application and interview skills and will meet with our independent careers advisers from the Futures team to help with decision-making for the next steps. Click here for more details about our enrichment offer.
  • Additional Learning Support - extra support is available for students with special educational needs and/or disabilities to help them gain the most out of their time at college. Support to overcome any barriers to learning or help with the transition from school to college will be determined on an individual basis. Click here for more details.
  • Progression Guidance - Throughout the year you will have lots of opportunities to help with planning for your vision for the future. This will include 1.1 progression meetings, course discussions with curriculum staff at the end of the academic year in a bespoke progression week. 

frequently asked questions

FOUNDATION programme success

Elliott Gray-Medd

High School: Cardinal Allen Catholic High School

Elliott studied Level 2 and 3 Health and Social Care, GCSE English and GCSE Maths at Blackpool Sixth.

He is now working as a teaching assistant at Red Marsh school.“The staff are amazing and so supportive. I wouldn’t be where I am without them!”

COURSES

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BTEC Level 2 Health & Social Care
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: 2
  • Pathways: Education, Health Professions and Social Care
  • Academies: Health Academy
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Public Services - BTEC Level 2 Certificate
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: 2
  • Pathways: Education, Law, Society and Public Service
View course
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BTEC Level 2 Business (Award)
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: 2
  • Pathways: Creative, Enterprise, Retail and Entrepreneurship, Law, Society and Public Service, Science and Technology, Sport and Wellbeing, Tourism and Hospitality
View course
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Creative Skills (Art, Design & Media) - BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: 2
  • Pathways: Creative, Digital, Education, Language and Culture, Performance
View course
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GCSE English Language
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: GCSE
View course
Read more
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GCSE Mathematics
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: GCSE
View course
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Personal Growth and Wellbeing - BTEC Level 2 Certificate
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: 2
  • Pathways: Creative, Education, Enterprise, Retail and Entrepreneurship, Law, Society and Public Service, Sport and Wellbeing
View course
Read more
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BTEC Level 2 Applied Science
  • Programme: Foundation Programme
  • Level: 2
  • Pathways: Science and Technology
  • Academies: Science Academy
View course
Read more
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Sports Leadership - Community (CSL)
  • Programme: Combined
  • Level: 2
View course
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Digital Systems and Data (Single) Level 2 Foundation Certificate
  • Programme: Combined
  • Level: 2
View course
Read more
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