Study programmes
Create well-rounded, confident learners by putting their needs at the heart of your curriculum planning
It’s a Department for Education (DfE) requirement that all learners funded through the 16 to 19 funding methodology are enrolled on a study programme. Whether your learners are going on to further study or embarking on a career, our study programmes give the best possible chance of success. They allow you to build a bespoke programme, personalised to fit around each learner, meeting their needs and career goals.
Book a consultation with our sector experts
Our sector experts are on hand to guide and support you through the challenges and opportunities currently facing the sector. Whether you want to understand more about the qualifications we’re developing or need more information about our existing study programmes, book a consultation and we will support you through your journey.
What is an NCFE study programme made up of?
The four parts to our 16-19 study programmes support you in building programmes with Planned Learning hours that are realistic and deliverable for learners.
Core
The core study programme qualification is a substantial Level 2 or Level 3 qualification that makes up over 270 Planned Learning Hours (PLH), at least half of a learner’s programme. Our range of Level 2 and Level 3 technical qualifications, some in nested suites, are designed to develop knowledge and skills that prepare learners for employment or higher education.
Enhance
In line with our charitable purpose, we offer 100 hours of free non-qualification activities to support study programmes. These employability, enrichment and pastoral activities have been designed to complement study programmes and enhance your learners’ transferable skills and confidence.
The Enhance resources cover the following areas:
- Employability
- Business and Enterprise
- Study Skills
- Personal and Social Development
- Digital Skills
Wraparound
Short Level 1, 2 and 3 qualifications add extra value to the core of the study programme and can be cherry-picked depending on the needs of the learner. Our wraparound products cover a range of cross-curricular disciplines such as employability skills, digital skills, study skills and functional skills, to enrich the study experience for learners.
Diagnostics
Our unique skills assessment and diagnostic tools provide leading e-Learning solutions for English and maths, employability and digital skills. The platform provides accurate visibility of learner’s progress and digitally captures evidence of their skills, knowledge and occupational competency to help set them up for success.
How we’re revolutionising the landscape of enrichment in FE
Already delivering our study programmes?
Access your free Enhance resources
Gov.uk guide for providers
Did you know there are 16-19 study programme guides for providers available on gov.uk? They contain further information for education and training providers on the planning and delivery of study programmes and cover academic, technical and vocational study programmes.
FAQs
What is a study programme?
All learners funded through the 16-19 formula must be enrolled on a study programme with a minimum number of 540 planned learning hours (PLH). Our study programmes provide learners with a high quality, holistic experience tailored to their individual needs.
What about learners who have not achieved a grade 4 in maths or English?
We offer Functional Skills qualifications in both English and maths from entry Level 1 to Level 2
Do all 16-19 study programmes have to include work experience?
Yes, all 16-19 study programmes should include work experience to support the learner in preparing for employment or for further or higher education.
Is there a set number of Planned Learning Hours for 16-19 study programmes?
Yes, there is a minimum requirement of 540 Planned Learning Hours.