THE BRIDGE – AN INTEGRATED VOCATIONAL TRAINING FACILITY

Highland Council recognised that alternative forms of education are needed for some pupils, for whom mainstream education does not suit, to realise their potential. The aim was to bring these pupils back into an education environment different to a school, which reflects where they might be in future years and which provides them with all the support services they may need under one roof, thereby promoting integrated cross-service working.

This led to the decision to establish an intermediate vocational training facility in Inverness, close to Inverness College and situated within a light industrial area where the potential of working with small businesses could be maximised. Highland Council leased a newly built showroom/office unit in the Longman Business Area. Specialist teaching accommodation is provided on the ground floor in the form of a light workshop, computer room, flexible teaching accommodation, quiet rooms and support teaching rooms. On the upper floor, office and teaching space for support services is provided for the Pupil Support Service, Youth Action Service, New Community School Approach staff, Through Care and After Care Service, Home Tuition Service and Looked After Children Support Staff.