Transitioning into mainstream education

Jake has made significant progress at Leicester College and has successfully transitioned into mainstream education. He has a diagnosis of autism and was previously at Ellesmere School in Leicester.

He has moved from this specialist provision to Level 1 Art and Design, then to Level 2 and is now studying Level 3.

Jake explains: “I didn't have the best experience in school so it was a massive achievement for me to get into a mainstream college. I’m glad that I went to college – it’s given me a chance to improve and I particularly like how open the college is.”

Picking up new skills and a strong support network

Jake continues: “On the course, I’m learning loads of new styles and techniques that I've never used before in art. I’ll be using these skills later in life for other projects.

“Getting advice from teachers and students has boosted my confidence. I really didn't know what I wanted to do in the first year of college but I’ve now got ideas about what I want to do in the future and have received loads of good support that’s helped me with work, my mental health and my career plans.”

Jake also works in a part-time job and is continuing to develop his independence, despite the challenges that he faces.