Roots and Shoots Study Programme is a nationally-recognised full-time course aimed at 16-24 year olds with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) who are seeking training in a supportive environment. To adapt to individual student needs, the programme is flexible in structure and duration. Students spend between one and three years within the Study Programme, where they gain at least three qualifications.
The qualifications gained by students during the Study Programme are City and Guilds accredited, ensuring high quality and recognition by employers and other educational centres.
The course contains 4 core elements:
Vocational
Learning
Functional
Skills
Employability
Course
Enrichment
Programme
At Roots and Shoots students can choose between one of three vocational learning subjects: Horticulture, Retail, and Floristry. This is supplemented by Functional Skills classes, an Employability course, and additional Hospitality & Catering classes. Study Programme students also enjoy an Enrichment programme which includes sports, art, drama and more. Our Study Programme is full time (3+ days or 16+ hours a week).
We are proud to provide:
A purpose-built site in Kennington with tranquil green outside space
Careers advice, work experience and one-to-one job coaching for all
Holistic Support for students and their families
Small class sizes with a specialist tutor and two learning support assistants per class
Our Study Programme students have many positive outcomes, often going on to higher level courses, supported training, volunteering and paid work. Read Graduate Stories here, and find out more about our Impact.
For more information about our Study Programme, contact education@rootsandshoots.org.uk or alternatively call our office on 020 7587 1131.
Read more about Study Programme subjects:
Horticulture
Our Horticulture course is about learning practical gardening skills. This includes growing plants, building and maintaining gardens, using tools and machinery correctly and learning about the environment. The course is suitable for all, whether a beginner, a keen gardener or those who enjoy practical, manual working. The qualification is a City and Guilds Award and Certificate in Horticulture Skills, Level 1.
Retail
Our Retail course is about gaining the skills to work in retail. This includes customer service, health and safety and problem solving. The course is ideal for students who are interested in working in any retail environment whether that is a shop, a warehouse or a café, where they can put their health and safety, customer service and communication skills to great use. The qualification is a City and Guilds Certificate in Retail Skills, Level 1.
Floristry
Our Floristry course is about learning the basics of contemporary floral design, and the professional skills needed to work in a retail environment. This includes the care and conditioning of flowers and foliage, basic floristry techniques and flower identification. The course is suitable for all students as it is designed for complete beginners and provides a sound background, knowledge, skills and techniques of contemporary floral art. The qualification is a City and Guilds Award and Certificate in Floral Design, Level 1
Employability
Whatever your interest and whether studying horticulture, floristry or retail, all our students benefit from a focused employability course, tailored to support each individual. Professional, work based skills often overlap with independent living skills which are vital for young people. The course ties in with Careers and Work Experience, with students having the option to do work placements in the local community. The qualification is a City and Guilds Award and Certificate in Employability Skills, Entry 2 to Level 1
Functional Skills
Functional Skills are made up of English, Maths and ICT (Information and Communication Technology). Our classes provide the opportunity to build skills needed for students' next steps in life, work and study and are designed to be meaningful and practical. The lessons are planned according to each student’s own personal targets and capabilities. Qualifications include City and Guilds Themed Awards in English and Mathematics Skills Entry 1 to Level 2 and City and Guilds Functional Skills ICT at Entry Level.
Hospitality and Catering
Food and cooking are central to life at Roots and Shoots and we believe that everyone should be able to take part. Our Hospitality and Catering work experience gives students a grounding in core cooking skills as well as an understanding of the principles of a healthy diet. Students will explore a range of cooking methods and kitchen techniques, as well as gain an understanding of the importance of Health & Safety and Hygiene in a professional kitchen. Students gain practical experience preparing meals for students, staff and the general public at events and open days.
