Vocational Learning

Vocational learning is an important part of life at St Piers School and College. It helps our students build practical skills, develop confidence and work towards greater independence as they prepare for adult life. This means students are supported not only in their education, but in gaining the real-world skills they will need for the future.

Our vocational programmes are designed to be meaningful and accessible. They are carefully tailored to each student's individual goals, interests and abilities, so that every learning journey is purposeful and personal.

We take time to understand each young person, what motivates them, what support they need, and what they hope to achieve, so they can progress in a way that feels achievable and rewarding.

Vocational learning at St Piers

St Piers Farm

St Piers farm is a 250-acre space with horses, llamas, and other animals. There are many opportunities for outdoor learning, such as through the 'Fleece to Fibre' project.

Horticulture opportunities

St Piers Farm also allows students to learn about crops, farming and living off the land.

Multi-skill development

Welcoming spaces throughout St Piers allow students to safely learn diverse vocational skills, such as craftmanship with activities such as woodworking.

What Our Students Do

Students at St Piers College take part in vocational learning across a range of areas, including:

Horticulture and land-based learning, including hands-on work at St Piers Farm, where students can care for animals, grow produce and learn about outdoor environments.
Catering and food preparation, developing practical kitchen skills in a supported, structured setting that builds confidence safely over time.
Creative arts and media, including photography, music, art and design, allowing students to express themselves and explore potential creative pathways.
Independent living skills, covering cooking, travel training, money management and daily routines that build confidence at home and in the community.
Work experience and supported employment, where appropriate, working with local employers to gain real-life experience in a supported way.

We adapt our approach to suit each student, including the pace of delivery, the learning environment and the methods of assessment. This ensures your child feels safe, supported and able to succeed at their own pace.

Qualifications

Students work towards nationally recognised qualifications suited to their level and interests, including Entry Level awards, Functional Skills and vocational certificates. Our team works closely with each student—and with families—to find the most appropriate pathway, ensuring that qualifications are meaningful and support future opportunities.

Preparing for What Comes Next

Planning for life after college is built into everything we do. From their first year at St Piers College, students begin building a portfolio of skills and experiences that supports their next steps, whether that is supported employment, further education, day services or more independent living.

Our aim is simple: to help every young person grow the confidence, skills and independence they need to lead a happy and fulfilling adult life.

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St Piers School

St Piers School is a registered residential special school providing education to both day and residential pupils, aged four to 19.

St Piers Farm

Today, St Piers continues to nurture children and young people in their education up to the age of 25. The farm remains a treasured part of campus life.

Exploring the World of Work at St Piers

As part of our Careers Week celebrations, students across all ages and abilities at St Piers immersed themselves in a fantastic range of workshops, creative activities and real-world experiences – all designed to spark curiosity and confidence in the world of work.