RNN Group launches new inclusive pathway to support learners
The RNN Group has introduced a new inclusive curriculum and three-year skills and progression plan designed to provide additional support for learners who may need more time and structure to successfully transition from school to college.
This initiative, launched in September for the 2025-26 academic year, reflects the Group’s commitment to ensuring every learner – regardless of their starting point – can progress with confidence towards higher education, training, or employment.
Supporting learners with additional needs
The programme has been developed for students who may face barriers to learning or risk disengagement during the early stages of their college journey. This includes:
- Learners with Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), SEND or SEMH needs
- Young people who have been in care, or who are on a child protection or early help plan
- Learners at risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training)
- Students with anxiety, autism, ADHD, or negative experiences of education
The plan is designed not only to deliver qualifications but also to focus on personal growth, independence, and employability skills.
What the three-year plan looks like
The three-year pathway provides a structured and supportive approach to learning and is also designed to grow with the students.
Year 1: Adjusting and Settling In
Learners are supported to settle into college life, with reduced timetables, smaller groups, safe spaces, and daily mentor check-ins.
Year 2: Skills Development
Students gradually expand their curriculum, with opportunities for supported internships, vocational courses, or the Horizons programme. Core skills in English and maths are embedded throughout.
Year 3: Preparing for Independence
The final stage focuses on preparing learners for the next step, whether that’s progressing to higher-level courses, apprenticeships, or employment, with an ongoing focus on resilience and employability skills.
Why this matters
Not every young person is ready to dive straight into a full-time vocational course. Some need more time, structure, and encouragement to feel settled. Others may even be at risk of dropping out if the first steps don’t feel right.
At its heart, this new initiative is about more than qualifications. It’s about confidence, personal growth, independence – and preparing students for real-life outcomes.
Programmes are fully personalised, with plans tailored to individual needs, strengths, and aspirations. Every learner will work with the RNN team to sets flexible, meaningful targets for their time at college and beyond.
A collaborative approach
Tracey Mace-Akroyd, deputy CEO and principal at RNN Group, emphasised the importance of meeting learners where they are.
“We’ll work with our learners, not for them, our job is to meet them where they are and help them feel seen and safe. We want to build on strengths, develop autonomy, and motivate learners to get to where they want to be.”
Parents and carers are central to this process. They will be invited to planning and review meetings, kept updated on progress, and encouraged to share insights to ensure consistent support across home and college.
Preparing for the Future
To make sure the programme succeeds, RNN staff have received additional training in inclusive teaching and trauma-informed practice, ensuring learners are supported by a knowledgeable and dedicated team.
The Group is also working closely with schools and Rotherham Council to manage transitions from Year 11, recognising that a well-supported transition is critical for success.
This initiative underscores RNN Group’s commitment to providing education that is both inclusive and aspirational, helping all learners build the resilience, confidence, and skills they need to thrive.
Further information
Year 11 parents and carers are invited to attend upcoming information meetings, at Rotherham College, North Notts College and Dearne Valley College, to learn more about the three-year skills and progression plan.
For further details, please contact the High Needs/SEND team on 01709 722726.