Our Nurture Pathway for Post-16 learners typically support young people aged 16+ who may need extra help transitioning into further education, training, or employment. These learners may have experienced social, emotional, or mental health challenges, or may be working below age-related expectations due to various reasons (e.g. trauma, disrupted education, SEND).
Here is an outline of what a Post-16 Nurture Pathway might include:
Aims of the Nurture Pathway
- Build confidence, resilience, and independence.
- Develop social and emotional skills.
- Support academic or vocational progress at an appropriate level.
- Help young people transition into adulthood, work, or further learning.
Who is it for?
- Aged 16–19
- May have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP).
- Working below GCSE Level (e.g., Entry Level or Level 1).
- May have struggled in mainstream education.
- Needs a safe, supportive environment to thrive.
What does it look like at The Canterbury Academy?
- Students attend sessions in a dedicated nurture space, designed to feel safe, calm, and welcoming.
- The group size is smaller to allow personalised attention and the opportunity to build trusting relationships.
- Students have a carefully adapted timetable, which may include a blend of the following offer:
1. Core Skills
- English & Maths (Functional Skills or GCSE resits)
2. Personal & Social Development
- Personal development ASDAN qualification
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Personal development ASDAN qualification
- Self-regulation and emotional literacy
- Healthy relationships
- Life skills (e.g., cooking, finance, travel training)
3. Pillars Curriculum
- Construction, Hospitality and Catering, Hair, and Beauty
- Sport
- IT
- Supported work experience or volunteering.
4. Transition Planning
- Careers advice and guidance (CEIAG)
- Preparation for Supported Internships, Traineeships, or employment
- Targeted Careers Fairs and visits to other post 16 providers
Staffing and Support Strategies
- Led by trained, caring staff who understand the unique needs of nurture students.
- Close collaboration with parents/carers, SENCO, and Sixth form pastoral team.
- Small groups or 1:1 teaching
- Mentoring or key worker support
- Therapeutic input (e.g., counsellors)
Destinations
- Progress to appropriate qualification within Sixth form
- Supported Internships- Collaborating with local providers Bemix and Kent County Council
- Further vocational learning (Level 1/2 courses)
- Apprenticeships (with support)
- Volunteering or part-time employment