School Partnership Courses: Falkirk pupils can reap the benefits of further education while still at school

Parents, guardians and carers of senior school pupils are being encouraged to consider the benefits of studying at Forth Valley College alongside school education. A wide range of School Partnership Courses is available, allowing pupils to gain vocational experience while remaining at high school.

The courses, offered at varying levels of study, are delivered across the college’s Falkirk, Stirling and Alloa Campuses. Applications open on Tuesday 27 January 2026, with course information available on the college website at the time of publication, although details may be subject to change.

These opportunities are open to pupils moving into S4, S5 and S6 in August 2026, who can choose a vocational college course as part of their subject options alongside National and Higher qualifications studied at school.

A course to suit you

The range includes Higher National Certificates (HNCs), typically studied over two years and offering progression to Higher National Diplomas or, in some cases, direct entry into the second year of university degree programmes. Pupils can also choose from National Progression Awards (NPAs), Foundation Apprenticeships, Skills for Work courses and the SCOTS programme, all designed to introduce industry-relevant skills and knowledge at an early stage.

These courses offer a valuable introduction to further and higher education, helping young people build confidence and reduce anxiety about leaving school. They also support the development of independence, responsibility and maturity, while giving pupils access to new social networks and enrichment opportunities.

New courses for 2026

Gallery Restaurant - Hospitality Academy, where pupils will be introduced to the fundamentals of the hospitality industry, set within our award-winning training restaurant based at our Stirling Campus.

Live Performance - Events, a hands-on programme introducing pupils to the exciting world of event planning and delivery. Students will also visit local event venues within the local area.

Types of courses

· Foundation Apprenticeships: equivalent to a higher qualification, offer a valuable opportunity for fifth- and sixth-year pupils by combining academic study with practical, real-world experience. Designed to give students hands-on tasks and workplace exposure with local employers, these apprenticeships help develop essential skills that strengthen future career prospects. They also open up multiple pathways, including progression to a Modern Apprenticeship, further study at college or university, or direct entry into the workforce.

· Schools College Opportunities to Succeed (SCOTS) programme: This is aimed at school pupils who want to experience college life without committing to a full qualification. It is designed for those who may be considering leaving school or staying on but are still unsure whether their chosen career path is the right fit. The programme allows pupils to try a course or subject area in a more relaxed setting, without the pressure of fitting a full qualification into an already busy school timetable. On completion, participants are better equipped to make informed decisions about their future career direction. The SCOTS programme is available exclusively to pupils attending schools in the Falkirk or Stirling area.

· School Partnership Courses: These courses offer senior school pupils the opportunity to study a wide range of vocational subjects alongside school-based National and Higher qualifications. The courses are available at different levels and are delivered across the college’s Falkirk, Stirling and Alloa campuses, ranging from National Progression Awards (NPAs) to Higher National Certificates (HNCs)

· Supported Transition Courses at Forth Valley College: These are designed to support young people with Additional Support Needs as they prepare for college life over the course of a year, while continuing their school education.The programme is offered at Level 2 and Level 4, providing a strong foundation for progression to full-time supported programmes or other courses within the college. A key focus is placed on understanding individual needs and offering tailored support to help students settle into the college environment. This includes becoming familiar with campus facilities and meeting key staff, helping to ensure a smooth and positive transition.

In addition, Forth Valley College offers an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course for young people from S4 onwards who have English as a second language and are working at Level 4. The course supports students in developing their language skills while preparing for an SQA award or examination at National 4, 5 or Higher level.

Delivered in an inclusive and supportive setting, the ESOL course brings together young people from across the local authority, helping them to build confidence, improve communication skills and develop a sense of community alongside academic progression.

Pupils interested in these courses should talk to their pupil support teacher. For more information visit School Partnership Courses | Forth Valley College or contact [email protected]