Can we support your 14-16-year-old learners with our alternative provision pathways?
Dudley College of Technology has successfully been delivering alternative provision for year 10 and 11 pupils for many years with 90% of learners progressing to mainstream provision at aged 16.
What we offer
We offer 4 study pathways in:
- Automotive
- Sports and Public
- Animal Studies
- Hairdressing and Beauty
These allow learners to find a match for their own interests and career plans.
Alongside one of these specialisms we will teach: maths and English, digital skills, and personal development. Students can also take part in a range of enrichment activities including: photography, sports, music, cookery and team building activities with www.challengeacademy.co.uk.
Students studying on these programmes will benefit from working with our staff who are experienced in dealing with challenging behaviour. They will be in small discreet groups alongside support assistants and learning coaches.
We have flexible delivery options available, so that we can offer a full-time programme of up to 25 hours contact time per week, or we can offer smaller programmes from 5 hours in class tuition, depending on the needs of the learner. We offer intensive programmes from a few short weeks up to a full year of study. On a weekly basis learners will normally attend one of our sites across the Dudley or Brierley Hill Learning quarter, depending on their choice of pathway.
Automotive
Who would enjoy this course?
This course is an ideal starting place if you have a love for cars and would like to have a technical career. If you are gripped by engines, suspension systems or radiators, then this course could be right up your street.
The course involves:
The automotive course will focus on transport maintenance and vehicle diagnostics. Our students learn about the design, manufacture, operation, and repair of a wide range of motor vehicles.
Future careers:
In the future you could work as a vehicle technician, mechanic, or vehicle/parts salesperson. Some students also go onto become garage managers or owners.

Animal Studies
Who would enjoy this course?
Do you have a connection with animals or enjoy biological sciences? Then this could be your perfect course!
You will be able to work in our on-site animal centre, where you will interact with our resident animals applying knowledge in a practical setting. From rabbits and rodents to exotic reptiles and birds, our centre offers a wide range of species, allowing you to develop an understanding of animal handling and behaviour, care, feeding and welfare.
The course involves:
Animal Studies provides a blend of theory, knowledge, and practical skills, helping you build a well-rounded understanding of the animal world and also nurture your compassion, empathy, and dedication towards the welfare of animals.
Future careers:
You could go on to work in a number of roles including:
- Animal Care Assistant
- Pet Store Assistant
- Animal Shelter Volunteer
- Kennel Assistant
- Cattery Assistant
- Grooming Assistant
- Veterinary Assistant
With the correct qualifications you could also set up and run your own busines

Sports & Public Services
Who would enjoy this course?
Public Services: Whether you’re interested in the fire service, police or the armed forces, this course is designed to help you prepare for a rewarding career. It offers you the opportunity to develop the skills and personal qualities needed for further study or employment.
Sports: Would you like to pursue a career motivating others to achieve their fitness goals? If you have an interest in sport or are you a talented athlete, this course can help you develop your skills.
The course involves:
Public Services: Prepares you both physically and mentally to work in the uniformed services. The course will encourage and instil core values of reliability, responsibility, respect, and resilience.
Sports: Our course will equip you with the leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, to succeed in the sport and fitness industry.
Future careers:
Public Services: You would work towards preparing for careers in the armed forces, police and fire services.
Sports: You could work as a sports coach, instructor or official. Other popular career routes include sports and leisure assistants/ managers, fitness and wellbeing instructors and sports players.


Hairdressing & Beauty
Who would enjoy this course?
Hairdressing: Would you be interested in working in an environment that is social and creative? Then this could be for you. You will gain skills, experience and confidence in styling hair and learn about customer service and health and safety in the salon.
Beauty: This hands-on, course has been designed to introduce you to many practical beauty therapy skills. You will have the opportunity to combine creativity with customer care; helping people to look and feel great.
The course involves:
Hairdressing: Focussing on styling hair to enhance a client’s appearance, alongside developing communication and work ready skills.
Beauty: Developing skills in various beauty techniques, including makeup application, and skincare treatments. Learning how to build a rapport with clients. Developing an understanding of beauty products and their applications will all be part of your learning in this area.
Future careers:
Hairdressing: Can lead to roles in salons, spas, or freelance settings. There are also opportunities to work in the theatre and film industries, this sector offers a huge variety of career paths.
Beauty: A career in beauty includes a wide range of fields focused on enhancing appearance and promoting wellness. You could find yourself working in a salon or spa as a trainee assistant therapist or you could even consider becoming self-employed.

For a more in-depth discussion with one of our specialist staff contact:
14-16pathways@dudleycol.ac.uk
Places are expected to go fast so act today!