What is Navigators?

Navigators is an Alternative Education provider and Specialist College who supports children, young people and their families who need a different approach to education. We offer a range of educational programmes across Greater Manchester from our pre 16 121 programme to college and vocational courses.

Who do you support?

We work with young people who require a more specialised or supportive learning environment due to their special educational needs, social or emotional challenges, anxiety, or other barriers to learning. Referrals typically come through schools and local authorities.  Please click here if you are the funding organisation and want to refer click here

What qualifications can students work towards?

Students can access a range of accredited qualifications—from Entry Level up to Level 2—depending on their abilities, goals, and pathway. We offer functional skills, vocational learning, employability and personal development programmes. We want every young person to leave us with a recognised achievement or qualification.

How is learning delivered?

We provide personalised, flexible learning through small groups, 121 sessions, and practical hands‑on activities. Our programmes are built around each learner’s needs and are supported by our specialist staff.

Do you offer therapeutic or wellbeing support?

Yes. We integrate wellbeing, personal development, and therapeutic support into all programmes. This may include mentoring, emotional regulation work, coaching, and structured interventions delivered by trained staff including an Occupational Therapist, Speech and Language Therapist and a School Nurse.

Where are sessions delivered?

Depending on the programme, sessions may be delivered at our college sites, vocational sites, community locations, partner settings, or through blended and supported learning models.

How does the referral process work?

Referrals can be made by schools or local authorities. Once a referral is received, we complete an assessment to clearly and accurately identify the young person’s needs and determine the most suitable programme.

What age groups do you support?

We provide programmes for young people typically aged 8–25, depending on the pathway and funding arrangements.

How are programmes funded?

Funding can come through schools, local authorities, education health and care plans (EHCPs), or commissioned services. We work with partners to confirm the most appropriate funding route.

How do you monitor progress?

Each learner receives a personalised learning plan with clear goals. We track attendance, engagement, academic progress, skill development, and wellbeing outcomes. Regular updates are provided to families, schools, and professionals.

Do you work with employers or offer work experience?

Yes. Many of our programmes include vocational learning, real‑world skills, and work‑related opportunities with employer partners.

How do you ensure safeguarding?

We promote a strong culture of safeguarding. All staff undergo enhanced checks, and we have robust policies, training, and procedures in place to protect the young people we work with.

Can parents or carers get involved?

Absolutely. We encourage regular communication and partnership with parents and carers. We provide updates, reviews, and opportunities to discuss progress and support needs.

Who can I contact for more information?

If you’d like to discuss a referral, programme options, or next steps, please contact our team via the details on our Contact page and a Navigators team member will respond in person.