Action Plan: Education
Deciding on what to study;
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Do you need to study specific subjects to keep a career path or interest open? Research your career interests using Job Profiles
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Talk to your tutor and subjects teachers about your predicted grades. You need your predicted grades so that you apply to the right level of course. The colleges receive a school reference and your predicted grades before making any offers. If your grades are border-line, you will want to consider a back-up option.
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Think about the subjects you enjoy or are good at? Make a list. Talk to your subject teachers about taking this subject at the next level.
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Would you like to start a new subject? There is much more choice at college. Start to look at prospectuses and make a list of subjects which interest you.
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Consider how you prefer to study and how you feel about exams and coursework. Different types of qualifications use different study methods and assessment.
What next?
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Identify local colleges using Myfuturesussex. Visit websites and make a list of open evenings/days. These usually take place in the Autumn term, with some offering a further date in the Spring
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Attend college open evenings to find out more about the subjects you are considering
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Use the college open evenings to find out about the college or sixth form. Look at the environment, talk to current students and staff about what it’s like to study there.
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What can they offer outside of your course e.g. social events, work experience, volunteering, help with planning your career or entry into higher education.
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Ask college tutors, what have students done after leaving the course. If the course is vocational, how many students have managed to get into that career? If aiming for higher education, how many students have progressed to the university of their choice?
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Are there any additional costs for this course? For example, college trips or visits, specialist equipment or resources?
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Do you have any support needs? Ask about additional support and how this is made available?
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Ask about the college’s 16-19 Bursaries – you may find there are some differences between colleges about how they are allocated and when to apply. You may need to disclose personal information e.g. if you have been in care or information about your family income, in order to benefit from the Bursary. Make sure you know how and when to apply.
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Check the application deadline or follow the instructions given to you by your school (who may give a slightly earlier date).
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Get your application form completed and handed in. Wait to receive an invitation to interview.
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Keep copies of any letters or write down the details of any phone calls. If you have any problems with your application, attending interviews etc speak to someone at your school for advice, or ring the Admissions department of the college
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Produced August 2011 by the Healthy Schools Team Brighton and Hove Council
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