Step into Learning
Step into Learning
Step Into Learning provides Post-16 SEND provision in Launceston, offering smaller, more personalised study programmes for young people who may prefer an alternative to a large mainstream college environment. The independent training provider is rated Good by Ofsted.
Their Step Into Skills programme is a one-year, face-to-face programme for young people aged 16–18. Young people aged 19–24 can also access the programme if they have an EHCP. No formal qualifications are required to apply.
The programme
focuses on building confidence, independence, employability and practical life and work skills. Learners start with core skills including teamwork, communication, problem solving, wellbeing, employability and life skills, before choosing from Creative Skills, Business Skills or Sustainable Skills.
Activities can include:
- photography
- drawing
- painting
- textiles and crafts
- business projects
- gardening
- horticulture
- food preparation
- community projects
- Functional Skills in English and Maths are also available,
- work experience opportunities
Classes on the 16–18 study programme are typically small, with around 6–8 learners, and additional support can be provided where needed. The provision is based in a community centre rather than a traditional college campus.
Supported Internships
From September 2027, Step Into Learning will also offer a Supported Internship specifically for young people aged 16–24 who have an EHCP. This is a different programme from Step Into Skills. Supported Internship learners will spend up to four days a week in a real workplace matched to their interests and career aspirations, with support from a job coach, and the remainder of their programme completing personalised training at the Launceston centre.
In simple terms: young people aged 16–18 can access Step Into Skills without needing an EHCP; young people aged 19–24 need an EHCP to access it; and the Supported Internship is for 16–24-year-olds with an EHCP and starts in September 2027.
Young people with a PDA profile are considered individually based on their needs and the support required.
The provision may suit young people who have struggled to attend or cope in mainstream education, including those with anxiety/EBSA or who have previously been home educated. Small groups and individualised support can help learners rebuild confidence and engagement.
How to access this provision
- Families can contact Step Into Learning directly to discuss the provision, arrange a visit and explore suitability.
- Young people without an EHCP can apply directly, subject to eligibility, availability and assessment.
- For learners with an EHCP who require additional high-needs funding, the Local Authority must consult with Step Into Learning and agree the placement and funding. Families can ask their SEND team/EHCP coordinator for Step Into Learning to be considered as part of Post-16 planning.
Planning for September 2027: Families interested in a Supported Internship are advised to contact Step Into Learning during autumn 2026, ideally before Christmas, to allow time for visits, EHCP reviews, Local Authority decisions and funding arrangements.
Accessibility
Ramp access to the entrance, ground-floor wheelchair-accessible training room and kitchen, and disabled toilet facilities. One disabled parking space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Post-16 transport
Learners may travel independently, with family or by public transport. Step Into Learning does not provide transport directly. Where eligible, Local Authority transport may be available but must be applied for separately and is not automatically provided with an EHCP.