Slough Haybrook College celebrated the achievements of seven year 11 pupils with a special graduation ceremony today, Thursday 11th June.
Haybrook College offers guidance and support for Slough pupils between 11 and 16 years who have challenging and complex social, emotional, behavioural and medical needs.
All the Slough pupils, aged fifteen and sixteen, have completed the Springboard Programme, which aims to inspire and support students to change negative cycles and make choices that lead to positive futures.
Alongside GCSE maths and English, Springboard students are offered the BTEC curriculum which is widely recognised by employers and can lead on to college courses. BTEC subjects include art, design and media, sport and leisure, music technology, construction, land studies and child development.
The Slough Springboard Programme assesses students at the end of each piece of work rather than having to remember everything for a long exam at the end of the year.
All graduates have either secured placements at East Berkshire or Uxbridge college, or have training provisions lined up to enter into the world of work. Success stories from this year’s graduates include:
* Student Chris Lane, aged 16, successfully completed work experience at KwikFit in Slough and has since been offered a permanent job
* Ryan Hursey, aged 15, will be working as a sports coach in primary schools across Slough thanks to his coaching ability and positive approach to work
Katrina Boyle, head of centre at the Springboard Programme, said: “These young people have been, or are at risk of, being excluded from mainstream education so its vital they’re given the opportunity to take part in an engaging education programme to help them make the most of their skills and abilities.”
David Billington, curriculum leader at Springboard Programme, added: “We work closely with education partners, such as the Education Business Partnership, Connexions, St Johns Ambulance, the Berkshire Association of Clubs for Young People (BACYP), Groundworks, Health Improvement and Drug Awareness teams to help nurture students.
“Our seven graduates have done a fantastic job and I’d like to congratulate them on all their hard work.”
Cllr Fiza Matloob, commissioner for Slough opportunity and skills, said: “This is a wonderful achievement for all seven pupils of Haybrook and I wish them every success for the future.”
Slough Borough Council
