Woolston Brook School

By Mark Cullen (Careers Lead & Communications Coordinator)

On the 8th of October 2024, Year 10 students from Woolston Brook SEMH School in Warrington, accompanied by key staff members, embarked on an informative afternoon visit to Warrington & Vale Royal College. Their journey was guided and facilitated by members of the Woolston Brook staff: Mark Cullen, the Careers Lead and Communications Coordinator; Thomas Stockdale, the Alternative Provision Lead; and Calvin Pasquill, the Teaching Assistant for Year 10.

Upon arrival at Warrington & Vale Royal College, the students were warmly greeted by Cath Stanley, the Additional Learning Support Transition Coordinator. She welcomed the group at the reception area and began the visit with a guided tour of the college campus. The atmosphere was alive with enthusiasm as the students embarked on this new exploration, which held the promise of shaping their future aspirations.

The tour commenced in the college library, a vibrant hub of resources that encouraged exploration and learning. Cath Stanley initiated a dialogue with the students, prompting them to share their interests and potential courses they might consider should they decide to apply to the college. This conversation proved invaluable, not only for gauging the students' aspirations but also for instilling a sense of focussed enquiry regarding their educational journeys.

One student expressed his fondness for Rugby and articulated his desire to pursue a sports course at the college, with a secondary consideration of engineering. His passion for sports was palpable, and the opportunity to further his education in this field seemed to ignite an inspiring spark within him. Another student shared her love for Art and technology, stating her ambition to undertake courses that would allow her to explore these interests at a deeper level. Meanwhile, a student disclosed his enthusiasm for computers and indicated a clear inclination toward a course in computer game design. These revelations were telling of the distinct passions and strengths among them, pointing towards a promising future in their chosen fields.

Following the engaging discussions, the group proceeded to the Hair and Beauty department. Here, Cath informed the students that they could take advantage of affordable hairstyling services completed by trainee hairdressers. This revelation piqued the students' interest, illustrating a practical application of skills being developed within the college.

Next on the itinerary was the Sports department, where the students were introduced to an array of facilities, including a dedicated classroom for theory lessons as well as a well-equipped gymnasium. Cath informed the students that the gym would be available free of charge for student use, an incentive that certainly resonated with one student who is naturally inclined towards fitness and sport.

The tour continued into another building, leading the group to the Computer department. This area offered a comprehensive look at various courses tailored for students interested in technology, particularly in computer game design. Cath Stanley elaborated on the following computer courses available for students aged 16 to 18: Level 1 Digital Innovation; Level 2 Computing & IT; Level 3 Computing & IT; HND Computing (HTQ); Level 3 Data Technician Apprenticeship and Level 3 Information Communications Technician Apprenticeship

The wide array of available courses broadened the students' perspectives and helped them envision various pathways depending on their interests and academic trajectories. This segment of the visit undoubtedly served as a catalyst for contemplation regarding their potential enrolment at the college. The final department visited was Art, where the group observed an ongoing lesson that featured colourful textiles.

During this visit, Cath Stanley took the opportunity to speak to each student individually, reinforcing the importance of achieving GCSE Mathematics and English qualifications. This tailored approach resonated with the students, as Cath's encouragement underscored the importance of these core subjects as prerequisites for many college courses and career paths.

By the conclusion of the tour, all students were visibly impressed with the facilities and educational opportunities presented to them. The realisation about the necessity of attaining GCSE Mathematics and English struck a chord with one student in particular, who noted, ‘I never really thought about how important these subjects are for my future.’ This moment of clarity spoke to the effectiveness of the visit and the importance of bridging the gap between education and future endeavours.

Overall, the visit to Warrington & Vale Royal College proved to be an enriching experience for the Year 10 students from Woolston Brook SEMH School. It afforded them insight into the diverse opportunities available post-GCSEs and encouraged them to consider how their current interests could translate into viable career paths. The tour not only sparked inspiration but also prompted the students to reflect seriously on their academic progress and ambitions. The collaborative efforts of the staff from both Woolston Brook SEMH School and Warrington & Vale Royal College culminated in a successful excursion that may well determine the students' educational trajectories. It is anticipated that this visit will serve as a touchstone in their academic journey, inspiring them to pursue their interests with renewed vigour and diligence. The importance of their forthcoming studies, including the essentials of GCSE Mathematics and English, has now been firmly highlighted.