How We Make Learning Possible
Our teaching schedule is designed so that, over two academic years, learners can complete Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths, alongside the International Single Award GCSE in Human Biology. This combination aligns with standard school-level curriculum expectations in the UK. Successful completion at this level supports further academic progression, access to employment, apprenticeships, or other pathways. For learners outside mainstream education, this condensed programme offers an opportunity to catch up with peers and start afresh in a structured environment.
The choice of Level 2 subjects is deliberate. English, Maths, and Science are fundamental educational benchmarks, but Functional Skills English and Maths present practical, real-world scenarios that are often more accessible than traditional GCSEs. Similarly, GCSE Human Biology is a relatable science subject, and because it is a single award, it reduces the sense of overload and makes study engaging again. Mainstream students often find these courses refreshing and different from the usual curriculum.
| Program Element | Details |
| Functional Skills Level 2 English | City & Guilds / Pearson Edexcel |
| Functional Skills Level 2 Maths | City & Guilds / Pearson Edexcel |
| International Single Award GCSE Human Biology | Pearson Edexcel |
| DBT/ Study Skills | Integrated in-house delivery |
The exam board for each subject is shown above. At the right time you will need to arrange the exam entry independently, but don’t worry we are on hand to help.
We are offering a systematic academic program with deliberately reduced contact time, and small class sizes. Because the learning is structured in this way, we are unable to deliver a more bespoke or individualised model of tutoring. Instead we focus on diagnostics, in-class support, an individualised learning plan, and regular 1:1 meetings with parents/learner/tutor. Lessons are varied, and carefully scaffolded between level 1 and level 2, or (for Biology) Key Stage 3 to GCSE. This is designed to comprehensively plug gaps in learning, and generates confidence. We also prioritise exploratory self-directed home projects in order to foster a sense of independence and ownership of the learning experience.
A major feature of our program is that we weave DBT techniques (dialectical behaviour therapy) into each lesson. The four pillars of DBT include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. This is strongly linked to study skills and the lesson material.
- SEND Reform: Square Peg in a Round Hole?
- From Stress to Success: DBT and Wellbeing Tutoring Sessions
- IGCSE Single Award Human Biology: Not Just the Bare Bones
- Brave New Words: Functional English for SEND Learners
- Our Maths Program: Why Functional Skills Matter
- Welcome to Optimal Learning!
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