Pathways - information for referrers and young people

Preparing young people for their future

The Pathways programme helps young people become confident in making choices by themselves. It shows how these choices can improve wellbeing, confidence, social skills, planning, social awareness, and motivation. Our approach is 'learn by doing'.

We offer fun and interesting activities that will help improve English, maths, and essential digital skills. Young people work towards an Entry 3 Award in Personal and Social Development and the Bronze or Silver Duke of Edinburgh award.

Pathways is for young people who want to develop their personal and social skills and take the next step towards work or further study.

Young people can apply for Pathways if they are:

  • aged 16 to 25 with a special educational needs and disability (SEND) need
  • ready to learn and motivated to become more independent
Photo of classroom with teacher making presentation

How the programme works

Pathways is a flexible programme that helps young people become more independent and ready for life and work. It also supports them to improve English, maths, and digital skills. Depending on their needs, young people can spend one or two years on the programme.

The programme runs for 34 weeks during the academic year and starts with a 3-week induction.

Pathways will help young people to:

  • learn about independent living and travel skills
  • improve their English, maths, and essential digital skills
  • gain awareness of the world of work and discover some key skills that will help them to progress after the programme
  • gain a Duke of Edinburgh Award
Two young people selling books
Staff are very supportive and my child feels safe. Pathways has restored his confidence in himself
Pathways parent feedback

Induction period

The first 3 weeks include an induction, some team building and getting to know the young people on the programme.

During this time, learners will attend two days a week and focus on personal development skills, Duke of Edinburgh activities, maths, English and digital skills.

Core programme

Our goal is to help learners feel confident and independent.

Training combines classroom learning with community activities. Learners also have tutorials and pastoral support sessions.

Photo of young people standing at a book stall

Support

The Pathways Delivery Team provides ongoing support throughout the programme. They can help with training, pastoral issues, career planning, researching job opportunities and developing work skills.

Learners will be supported by a specialist Skills Coach. The Skills Coach will help them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their chosen path.

The Skills Coach will support learners until they are ready to take their next step. This might be working independently or moving on to a Further Education course. Learners will also have a chance to build their confidence in travelling on their own if needed.

Learners may be able to get a bursary to help with travel costs or other expenses. This depends on their personal circumstances and eligibility. To find out more or refer a young person, email [email protected].

Ways to progress after the programme:

  • Supported Internship (for those that meet the entry requirements)
  • Further Education
  • Volunteering work
  • Transition support to a suitable destination
Photo of young people on a bus
I am really enjoying the programme.
Jack, Pathways student

Apply

To apply for a Pathways opportunity with Hampshire County Council complete an application form and email it to [email protected].