Our Pathways courses help young people with learning difficulties develop key independent living, employability and functional skills, helping prepare them to progress into employment or a higher-level course.
North Hertfordshire College’s Pathways learners are always busy getting involved with enrichment sessions, work taster days, and much, much more. Recently, our Pathways 3 group visited the Festival of Ideas at the University of Hertfordshire to explore some inspiring new projects and initiatives.
The festival was jam-packed with captivating performances, interactive exhibitions, and thought-provoking virtual reality simulations.
Our learners’ favourite area was the Future Tech Zone, dedicated to exploring innovative new technology and the ways it can benefit our society.
Our learners were very excited to meet Kaspar, a robot designed to be used as a therapeutic tool to help autistic children build their social skills.
The Pathways group then had a glimpse of life as a Formula 1 driver through the high-tech motion platform racing simulator. This fully immersive experience simulates being behind the wheel of a racing car!
After enjoying an al-fresco lunch provided by the University, the Pathways group met with midwives, nurses and learning disability nurses to explore how technology serves the healthcare industry.
Learners used glasses that simulate vision loss, a resource designed to help healthcare professionals gain a deeper understanding of their patients’/service-users’ experiences. The group then explored the high-tech models used by healthcare practitioners in training, such as a pregnant model torso and pre-term baby models.
The healthcare exploration ended with an interactive game, asking our Pathways learners to help identify sugar, salt, and fat within food items.
What an informative and inspiring day!
Both our Pathways 3 learners as well as our NHC staff members had a wonderful time at The Festival of Ideas, we look forward to hearing about next year!
If you or your young person are interested in getting involved with the personal and professional development opportunities within a Pathways course, please explore North Hertfordshire College’s Supported Studies programmes.