Rivers ESC offers a Wednesday Programme of alternative provision for Key Stage 4 students from East Herts and the Borough of Broxbourne secondary schools.

Students attend Rivers ESC on either a Wednesday morning or afternoon, while remaining in their mainstream school for the rest of the week. Working in partnership with schools, we provide a therapeutic, nurturing environment with a strong focus on mentoring and positive outcomes.

Our experienced staff specialise in supporting students with social, emotional and behavioural needs, helping them to successfully remain in mainstream education. Students are taught in small groups of up to six, supported by both a teacher and a teaching assistant.

Available Courses

Students can choose from a range of vocational pathways, working towards recognised qualifications:

• Textiles – City & Guilds Level 1
• Construction – City & Guilds Multi Trade Level 1
• Sports Leaders – Leadership Skills Foundation Level 2
• Fitness – BTEC Level 2
• Mixed Media Art – City & Guilds Level 1
• Catering – BTEC Level 1/2 (including Food Hygiene)
• Hair and Beauty – Coming Soon

Session Times

Course Details

Mixed Media Art (City & Guilds Level 1)

• Work with a variety of art mediums
• Respond to natural and organic forms
• Learn a range of creative techniques
• Build a portfolio and produce a final assessed piece

Fitness (BTEC Level 2)

• Understand anatomy and body systems
• Plan and lead fitness sessions
• Recognise and manage sports injuries
• Promote healthy lifestyles and wellbeing

Catering (BTEC Level 1/2)

• Develop confidence in home cooking
• Learn how to plan meals economically
• Apply skills across different recipes
• Share knowledge with others

Sports Leaders (Level 2)

• Develop leadership skills and responsibilities
• Plan and deliver sports sessions
• Understand safety and risk assessment in sport
• Organise and lead events

Construction (City & Guilds Multi Trade Level 1)

• Gain experience across multiple construction trades
• Learn essential health and safety practices
• Use tools and equipment safely
• Build knowledge of trade skills

Textiles (City & Guilds Level 1)

• Develop sketchbook and research skills
• Learn a variety of textile techniques
• Explore designers and styles
• Create a final piece for display

Students who complete sufficient guided learning hours will achieve recognised qualifications that can be carried back into their mainstream school.