Heart of Birmingham Vocational College

Heart of Birmingham Vocational College (previously Calthorpe Vocational Centre) launched in September 2014. It is a full time day provision that provides individualised learning experiences that develop key employability and supported living skills for students with moderate/severe and ASD needs. 

If you are aged between 19 and 25, have an EHCP and an aspiration to work, then HBVC may be the place for you!

We are a regional provider, accepting learners from across the West Midlands region.

The curriculum progressively develops skills required by employers to allow students to build towards the goal of paid employment in areas of their individual strengths. These skills are developed vocationally, linking to functional numeracy, literacy and ICT for the modern world of work.

A phased approach, over three years, builds in work placement and paid work opportunities across a variety of employment providers. 

The curriculum offer develops the essential communication, social and life skills needed to develop independence and supported living and is completely individualised for each learner.

Many aspects of the curriculum link to a variety of vocational accreditation opportunities, including functional literacy, numeracy and ICT and leadership qualifications. 

The team at HBVC includes a number of learning, employability and pastoral coaches along with BSL and Makaton specialists; ensuring the personalisation of learning and individualised support for every student. Students have access to a range of theraputic services including counselling and speech and language therapy.

On site facilities include a vocational workshop and creative space. In addition to this students access a wide variety of facilities in the community including music and video production equipment, professional catering kitchens and a range of enrichment activities.