Case Study: Will and Xander – Preparation for Employment Pathway

Will and Xander, both Year 13 students at Dawn House School, are thriving on the Preparation for Employment Pathway. As part of this, they attend West Notts College, where they are completing a Level 1 Motor Vehicle Maintenance course.

Their experience at West Notts College has been outstanding, thanks to the state-of-the-art facilities that replicate a real-world garage environment. With access to over 20 vehicles, cutting-edge machinery, and industry-standard tools, they are gaining hands-on experience that will prepare them for future employment.

On Monday 3rd March, Mr. Norman visited the college to see their progress firsthand. Will and Xander have developed a range of practical skills, including:

• Changing tyres
• Replacing brakes
• Using diagnostic software to identify faults and check vehicle specification

Their growing expertise is a testament to their hard work and enthusiasm for the course.

As part of the Preparation for Employment Pathway, Dawn House School ensures that Y13 students receive the appropriate support to succeed in college. Students attend college for up to three days a week, with adult support provided if needed. On the other two days, they return to Dawn House School, where they either:

• Take part in lessons with their peers
• Have study time to complete Maths, English, and the theory elements of their course

Will and Xander’s journey highlights the success of the Preparation for Employment Pathway, demonstrating how real-world experience and structured support can help students develop valuable vocational skills for the future.