Why Study This Course?
Working in Retail is an entry-level vocational three-day programme designed for learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who are interested in developing practical skills for the Retail industry. Delivered over three full days (9:30am–3:30pm), the course provides a supportive and hands-on learning environment where learners develop confidence in product making, customer service, stock handling, teamwork, and workplace communication.
Learners will take part in practical retail activities while also developing English, Maths, and Digital skills linked to real-life retail tasks such as handling money, communicating with customers, creating displays, and using technology in retail settings. The course focuses on building confidence, independence, and employability skills needed for future progression into further learning, work experience, volunteering, or employment within the Retail industry.
As part of the programme, learners will work towards an RQF qualification in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health, with the option to take the qualification during the course. An RQF qualification is a nationally recognised qualification that helps learners develop awareness of mental health, wellbeing, and how to support themselves and others appropriately in workplace and everyday situations
-Develop practical retail and customer service skills
-Build confidence communicating with customers and colleagues
-Improve teamwork, organisation, and workplace skills
-Develop independence and confidence in workplace situations
-Gain experience in product making, displays, and stock handling
-Improve English, Maths, and Digital skills through practical retail activities
-Learn money handling and basic retail numeracy skills
-Develop awareness of mental health and wellbeing in the workplace
-Work towards an RQF qualification in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health
-Build confidence for future work experience, volunteering, or employment in Retail
-Introduction to the Retail industry and customer service roles
-Developing customer service and communication skills
-Product making, presentation, and display activities
-Understanding stock handling and organising products
-Learning teamwork and workplace responsibilities
-Building confidence speaking with customers and colleagues
-Developing Maths skills linked to money, pricing, and transactions
-Developing English and Digital skills linked to retail tasks
-Understanding workplace expectations, routines, and behaviours
-Learning about mental health awareness and wellbeing
-Preparing for the RQF qualification in Awareness of First Aid for Mental Health
-Developing problem-solving, organisation, and time management skills
-Practising practical retail tasks in realistic workplace scenarios
Complete an Initial Assessment via MS Forms or in hard copy. Return to Supported Learning. Attend an interview with a member of Supported Learning Team
Assessment is via a portfolio of evidence demonstrating achievement of personalised learning goals. Next Steps: Working in Catering