Tier 2 - Aspiration Pathway (14 to 16 Pathways With Purpose)
14-16 Pathways with Purpose
Supporting Young People Towards Successful Post-16 Destinations
Pathways with Purpose is Coventry Alternative Provision's integrated 14 to 16 transition programme, designed to support young people who may be at risk of disengagement from education and future learning. Delivered in partnership with Coventry College and a range of specialist commissioned Alternative Provision training providers, the programme offers a coordinated, vocationally-led pathway that prepares learners for successful progression into education, employment, or training after Year 11.
The programme combines academic, vocational, personal, and transition support within a single, personalised offer, helping young people build the confidence, skills, and aspirations needed for sustained Post-16 success.
The programme includes:
- Academic and vocational learning opportunities
- English, Maths and Functional Skills support
- Careers education, information, advice and guidance
- Employer engagement and work-related learning
- Mentoring, wellbeing and therapeutic support
- Early college experiences and transition activities
- Personalised progression planning
- Supported handovers and induction into Post-16 destinations
Our aim is simple: to prevent young people from becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) by providing personalised, wraparound support and a clear progression pathway from age 14 through to Post-16 education, employment or training.
Purpose and objectives
The programme is designed to create a seamless and high-quality progression route between Coventry Alternative Provision and Post-16 learning opportunities, particularly through Coventry College and vocational training providers.
By aligning learning experiences, qualifications, and support services, young people are empowered to move into their next stage of education with confidence, stability, and a clear sense of purpose.
Objectives
- reduce the risk of young people becoming NEET through early identification, targeted intervention, and sustained transition support
- align 14-16 provision with Post-16 pathways, supporting progression from Entry Level through to Level 2 qualifications and beyond
- strengthen academic readiness, particularly in English and Maths, alongside personal development and wellbeing
- provide meaningful employer engagement and work experience opportunities that develop employability skills
- deliver effective transition planning, induction and handover arrangements to improve sustained destinations at 3, 6 and 12 months post-transition
Who is the programme for?
Pathways with Purpose is designed for young people who:
- are at risk of disengagement from education or becoming NEET.
- remain on roll at a mainstream school
- may experience anxiety, low confidence, behavioural challenges, or other barriers to learning.
- would benefit from a smaller, nurturing learning environment.
- have an interest in vocational learning and practical career pathways.
To view the vocational opportunities available through our commissioned providers, please visit our Training Providers Directory.
Programme Offer
Learners can access support for up to 2 days per week, depending on individual need and programme suitability.
The offer may include:
- vocational learning opportunities
- academic support and intervention
- behaviour support programmes
- emotional wellbeing and social development
- individual mentoring
- personalised learning and transition plans
- careers education, information, advice and guidance
- preparation for Post-16 pathways
- early college experiences and taster opportunities
Programmes may run for up to 2 academic years, depending on individual circumstances and outcomes identified by the school.
Applications are accepted throughout the year, providing flexibility for schools and learners when support is needed most.
Referral Considerations
When considering a referral, schools should reflect on the following questions:
- does the student require a more bespoke curriculum to meet their individual learning needs?
- does the proposed pathway align with the student's interests, strengths, and aspirations?
- how will the programme support future educational progression and Post-16 destinations?
- will Pathways with Purpose provide the right support, at the right time, and in the right setting?
- will participation improve engagement, confidence, attendance, and future outcomes?
Schools are encouraged to complete a Commissioning Agreement to demonstrate the suitability of the programme and intended outcomes for the learner.