Photo of two students laughing and working together on laptops

Flexible Learning

LEARN THE SKILLS YOU NEED TO LIVE INDEPENDENTLY, OR PROGRESS TO EMPLOYMENT OR VOLUNTEERING IN OUR NEW FLEX DEPARTMENT.

Offered at

Dearne Valley College Rotherham College

Our FLEX Department is for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) or High Needs.

Our goal is to help students in life by preparing them for employment, adulthood and personal independence.

Our department offers a range of tailored support ensuring that the unique needs of each person we work with are met.

You can choose from one of our four, project-led pathways depending on your personal aims and ambitions; Independent Living, Horizons, Pre-internships or Supported Internships with each pathway intended to help you towards one of two key goals – adulthood and independence or employment. We’ll also help you with your English, maths and IT skills. Students learn in small groups and are taught by specialist staff on our project-based curriculum.

Throughout their time at College, students will have the chance to try different vocational subjects such as hairdressing, construction and engineering, and get involved in community projects. This provides the learners with exposure to all the fabulous facilities available across our College Group’s sites (Rotherham College, North Notts College and Dearne Valley College). 

As well as our vocational facilities, our FLEX department also offers specialist such as: Sensory rooms, sensory gardens, working kitchens and living spaces for practical role play and developing independent life skills.

We have strong partnerships with local businesses and organisations and work with them to get involved in community projects. You’ll also have the chance to take part in a wide range of health and wellbeing activities, from fitness classes to music and art therapy sessions. We’re also looking to start a disability sports league.

What our students say

“During my Apprenticeship, I figured out that I want to work in digital marketing in the future. The digital aspect appealed to me because I could see a tangible impact on the growth of business, by working with tools such as Google Analytics and social media platforms.”

Chloe Marriot
Chole Marriot Business Administrator Apprenticeship

“I have met new friends in a great community while studying a practical course that I enjoy.”

Photo of Bayley Lowe
Bayley Lowe Level 2 Sport Former student at The Laurel Academy

“I enjoy being in a working environment in the college restaurant and serving customers”

Anonymous Level 2 Food and Beverage Services Former student at Winterhill School
Futures For Everyone Find out more