Abingdon & Witney College recently welcomed local MP Charlie Maynard to its Witney campus to learn more about the specialist support available through its Access to Learning provision.
Hosted by Head of Faculty for Access to Learning, Vicky Donnelly, and Deputy Principal, Jo Milsom, the visit included a tour of the College’s Pathways provision, where Mr Maynard saw first-hand how learners with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are supported to develop confidence, independence, employability skills and pathways into adulthood.
Staff showcased the College’s specialist facilities and highlighted its role in supporting learners with some of the highest levels of need across the region. Mr Maynard also joined students from the Pathways Living Independently course for refreshments they had prepared themselves, demonstrating the practical and life skills developed through the programme.
The visit also explored the College’s wider Access to Learning offer, including Gateway, which helps young people re-engage with education, and Fast Forward, a transitional programme designed to prepare students for vocational study. During the visit, Mr Maynard met Gateway learners and heard directly about the positive impact the College has had on their confidence, wellbeing and future aspirations.
Discussions also covered the growing demand for specialist SEND provision, the importance of effective transition support, and the need for collaboration between colleges, schools, families and local authorities to ensure positive outcomes for young people. The College’s commitment to inclusive education was a key focus, including the support provided through its Further Education Autism Specialist Team (FEAST).
Following the visit, Mr Maynard said:
“It was wonderful to meet Jo and Vicky at Abingdon and Witney College today and see first-hand the incredible range of opportunities available to young people. For 15 and 16-year-olds thinking about their next steps, I would encourage you to attend an open day, speak to staff and students, and explore the wide variety of courses on offer.”
Jo Milsom, Deputy Principal at Abingdon & Witney College, added:
“We were delighted to welcome Charlie to our Witney campus and showcase the incredible work taking place within Access to Learning. Our staff are passionate about helping every learner succeed, supporting them to develop the skills, confidence and independence needed for their futures.”
The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the impact of specialist further education and the breadth of support available to help every learner achieve their potential.