Transferable Skills Training

Transferable Skills Training South West CIC (TST) provides post-16 SEND education and vocational training in Cornwall from its setting at Merryhue Farm near Callington. It supports young people aged 16–19, and young adults up to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), through practical, individualised learning designed to prepare learners for adulthood, further training and employment.

TST offers vocational pathways

Land Based and Animal Care, Multi-S

kills Construction and Independent Living Skills, alongside Functional Skills, personal development and work experience. As an approved OCN London centre, TST offers nationally recognised qualifications from Entry Level through to Level 3.

Learning has a strong practical focus, with opportunities to develop skills through animal care, horticulture, construction, cooking and community-based activities. Learners can also develop everyday skills including communication, budgeting, confidence, emotional resilience and independence.

Work experience

This forms an important part of the programme. Learners can undertake placements linked to their interests and future goals, helping them develop workplace skills and prepare for employment, apprenticeships or further training.

Families can contact TST to arrange a visit or taster opportunity. Young people with an EHCP can discuss TST as a potential post-16 placement as part of their transition planning and local authority consultation process.

Programme structure

TST’s full-time Study Programme runs over three days per week, 9:30am–4pm, for 35 weeks, totalling 630 hours. Programmes combine a core qualification, Functional Skills and work experience, alongside enrichment and independent living skills.

Support

Learning takes place in small groups with experienced staff and programmes are individually tailored to learners’ needs and progression goals.

How to apply

Young people aged 16–18 without an EHCP can contact TST directly. For young people with an EHCP, families should discuss their preferred post-16 placement with the relevant SEND/CSW service so that the local authority can consult with TST. Families can also arrange a visit and TST offers taster opportunities.

Transport

TST operates a minibus service from Plymouth and Liskeard. Families should contact the provider to check current routes, availability and eligibility.

Good to know

TST has a rolling education programme, meaning learners may be able to enrol during the academic year rather than only in September. Families can arrange a visit or free taster day to explore whether the setting is suitable for their young person.