The focus of our study programmes is to embed independence and employability skills to enable our learners to secure positive and meaningful progression, be that into independent living or into the workplace through vocational study within other specialist areas across the College. Aspirations for ultimate workplace progression include both voluntary and paid employment.
Merton College is the base for South Thames Colleges Group's Aurora provision. This is our specialist, non-residential FE centre for young adults with moderate to severe learning disabilities who may have autism and / or complex support needs.
Foundation Learning/SEND Open Event
Thursday 26 June 5pm-7pm
Join us at our open event if you are looking to enrol on a Foundation Learning/SEND course this September 2025
Each of our colleges has a dedicated provision for 16-25-year olds with significant learning and social communication support needs.
We offer an integrated programme of practical skills and qualifications supported by our in-house therapy team who offering Speech & Language and Occupational Therapy to all of our learners who need this specialised support.
The needs of new students are carefully assessed by our tutors and therapists, who work closely with the young person and their family to create a three-year Progression Pathway.
Our programme:
Based on an assessment the learner will receive a curriculum programme tailored to meet their specific needs around the preparing for adulthood agenda. Our team will liaise closely with parents and carers to make sure that learning is transferred from College to home.
Please complete the brief application/enquiry form below and one of our team will be in touch.
Each programme has a combination of communication, social, independence and employability skills delivered by specialist SEND teachers. Students are streamed for Maths and English so that they can work at the right level in these key areas. Groups will work towards Entry Level Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications but only take the exams when they are comfortably ready to do so. Literacy and numeracy skills are embedded throughout the wider curriculum with a focus on real world, age-appropriate resources. There are dedicated IT lessons in our computer suites and opportunities for student to hone their IT skills across the curriculum so that they access apps that can support their independence and build the skills they will need for further study or employment.
Take a look at our STCG SEND Local Offer
The Aurora provision is South Thames Colleges Group's specialist, non-residential FE centre for young adults with moderate to severe learning disabilities who may have Autism, behaviours of concern or complex support needs. The provision is based at Merton College. The Aurora provision contains eight learning areas and is situated predominantly in a quiet area on the College site, adjacent to attractive parkland. It has its own dedicated entrance, a garden, kitchen, laundry facilities, and large greenhouse. It has access to a dedicated common room and quiet area and allows students to select their preferred area for lunch etc. The provision is designed to be a safe, secure and welcoming environment for our students. They share a dedicated specialist team who work together to deliver bespoke education, therapy and training for young adults from 16 to 25 years of age.
