A specialist college for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) is celebrating its first year of supporting learners at an official opening event in Herne Bay today.
Salt College is a specialist post-16 education provider for young people from 16 with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Since welcoming its first students last year, the college has been helping learners develop skills, confidence and independence while preparing for employment, further education and adult life.
The reception area of SALT College
Based in a refurbished campus in the West Industrial Estate, Salt College features specialist workshops and learning spaces for construction, building services, beauty, computing, creative industries, hospitality and business enterprise, alongside English and maths teaching and dedicated wellbeing support.
From next month Salt College will also offer Supported Internships through a partnership with Kent Supported Employment, helping learners who need additional support to make the transition into work. The college is part of Salt Training Limited, which is an apprenticeship provider and offers employer-led Skills Bootcamps, giving learners opportunities to gain real-world experience and progress into employment.
A construction demo which took place at the college
Principal Kurt Salter said:
"At Salt College, we believe any learner's potential is best expressed through practical skills and personal support. As we move into our next academic year, we are excited to share how we've built an environment where any learner with an EHCP can express their strengths, get in-demand industry skills, and grow the confidence to take their next step into the world of work."
“Having a range of high-quality post-16 options is vital to ensuring every young person can access the education, training and support that is right for them.”
Kent County Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Beverley Fordham, said:
"It's fantastic to celebrate the success of Salt College and see the positive difference it is already making for young people with SEND in Kent.
"Having a range of high-quality post-16 options is vital to ensuring every young person can access the education, training and support that is right for them. Salt College's focus on practical learning, preparation for adulthood and employment skills is helping young people build confidence and develop the skills they need for the future."
Salt College is helping to strengthen Kent's network of specialist post-16 provision, supporting more young people with SEND to achieve their goals and move successfully into further education, training or employment.
For more information about Salt College, visit: Salt College | Herne Bay's Specialist College
