Bolton College Parents & Carers Guide 2021/2022

Part of the University of Bolton Group

get into career mode

b o lto n c o l l e g e p a r eInformation n t s & c a rfor e rParents s G u i d&e 2 0 2 1 / 2 2 Carers 2021-22 www.boltoncollege.ac.uk

Introduction Parents and carers want the best for their young person so at Bolton College, we understand that the move from school to college is an important step and making the right choice can be difficult.

This guide aims to help you understand the options available to your young person in order to help them make the right choice. We’ll also give you an insight into the educational routes available here, as well as the services and facilities on offer.

It’s an amazing time to join Bolton College, where the new Gold Standard in advanced technical education, the new T Level qualifications, are being delivered.

We offer over 140 Vocational Study Programmes, T Levels and Apprenticeships across 26 subject areas, covering a variety of professions and occupations, so your young person will have plenty of options for the future.

We’re an elite College, and part of the University of Bolton Group, offering a gateway to all of Greater Manchester’s vast range of fantastic opportunities for specialist careers, university degree courses and higher Apprenticeships.

What sets our programmes apart is the opportunity for our learners to put the things they learn about their chosen industry into practice in an employment setting, either as an apprentice, through Industry Placements or work experience.

During our last inspection, we were graded 2 for ‘Good’ – Ofsted highlighted the fact that our learners develop good employability and personal skills, and that a high proportion progress to Apprenticeships, employment or Higher Education.

We hope that you find this guide helpful and if you have any questions, you can call us on 01204 482 182 or email info@boltoncc.ac.uk

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Visit our

Virtual Open Event!

Over

25,000 visitors so far!

You can tour our campus, explore our programmes and hear from students and staff from the comfort of your own home, check out our Virtual Open Event, available online NOW! Visit the link below to access over 40 videos at a time convenient to you.

www.boltoncollege.ac.uk/ virtual-open

How to pick the ideal Programme The first question to ask is, ‘What does my young person want to do for a career?’

Your next question is, ‘How do they achieve their career choice?’

It’s all about knowing which educational route to take, which is explained here:

Academic, Technical, Vocational and Apprenticeship Routes A Levels (Academic)

T Levels (Technical)

Pros

• The learner will be exposed to the theoretical side of a subject • They will gain useful transferable skills, e.g. how to analyse • A well-respected qualification • A gateway to a university degree • Good for learners who are unsure about the direction of their future career

• New Gold-Standard qualification, equivalent to three A Levels • The learner will be exposed to the theoretical AND practical side of a subject • A 315-hour Industry Placement allows learners to apply classroom learning to a real-life work environment • A gateway to employment or a university degree

Cons

• Book learning can be difficult • T Levels are still being rolled out, so currently not all occupations to apply in the ‘real’ world covered • Assessment is via exams • Leads to a specific career path • Involves less engaging (can be an advantage or a learning methods, such as disadvantage) lectures • Does not provide learners with hands-on skills to apply in the workplace

Ideal for:

• Learners who achieve good • Learners who have a particular grades in their GCSEs (9s & 8s) career in mind • Learners who are good at • Applying for university exams • Visual/auditory/kinaesthetic • Applying for university learners* • Visual/auditory learners*

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Vocational Programmes

Apprenticeships (Work Based)

Pros

• More active: ‘learning by doing’ • There is more interaction and hands-on experience • Practical learning encourages resilience and problem solving • Equips learners with specific skills to take directly into their chosen career • Can lead to a university degree, employment or an Apprenticeship

• The learner will be paid • They will gain a recognised qualification • An Apprenticeship helps learners to do a particular job • Provides a work related qualification, enhancing employment chances • Combines college study with hands-on, workplace experience, often referred to as Earn and Learn

Cons

• Not all occupations offer • Less academic Apprenticeships • There’s a limit to the universities that will accept the qualification • The range of programmes available at a higher level may • Leads to a specific career path be more limited (can be an advantage or a • Leads to a specific career path disadvantage) (can be an advantage or a disadvantage)

Ideal for:

• Learners who have a particular career in mind • Learners who prefer to be assessed throughout their programme, rather than sitting end-of-year exams • Kinaesthetic learners*

• Learners who want to earn a wage • Learners who have a particular career in mind • Kinaesthetic/auditory learners*

*Visual learners prefer to learn through pictures and written text, while auditory learners learn best by listening to lectures and discussions. Kinaesthetic learners prefer to learn through hands-on and interactive activites.

Qualification Levels Vocational qualifications, such as BTECs and NVQs, can be completed at different levels. The following points explain how these levels relate to other qualifications.

Level 3 Level 3 qualifications are equivalent to A Levels. From a Level 3 qualification, learners can progress on to Higher Education programmes, into work, or on to an Apprenticeship.

Level 2 Level 2 qualifications are equivalent to GCSEs at grades 9-4. Usually, two GCSEs at grade 4 or above are required for a Level 2 programme. For vocational programmes, learners may be required to complete a Level 2 qualification, before moving on to Level 3.

Level 1 Level 1 programmes are equivalent to GCSEs at grades 3-1. No formal qualifications are required for a Level 1 programme.

Entry Level There are three Entry Levels – 1, 2 and 3. Entry Level programmes act as an introduction to the subject area and will provide the learner with the skills, knowledge and confidence to move on to the next level. No formal qualifications are required for an Entry Level programme.

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Factors to Consider when Choosing a College, Sixth Form or Training Provider

Things to think about when taking the next step after school: • Location – is the organisation easily accessible?

• Organisation – does it suit the preferred learning style?

• Transport links – how easy is it to get there and back?

• The range of subject areas – does it offer the preferred programmes?

• Enrichment activities – participation in enrichment looks great on a CV or when applying to university; is there plenty for the learner to do alongside their studies?

• Teaching staff – are the tutors industry/occupationally qualified?

• Facilities – does the college have good facilities for the learner such as places to eat, sports facilities, chill-out areas and good IT equipment?

• Level of support offered – can the college offer any extra support for learners with additional needs, such as numeracy and literacy?

• Bursaries – is financial support available? Are there any bus pass or concessionary offers?

• Open evenings - have you been to visit a college/sixth form open evening?

Did you get enough information to make an informed decision? Did your visit give you confidence and what was your initial impression? Did the organisation keep in contact with you after your visit?

• Application process - is it easy to apply for a study programme or an Apprenticeship?

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get into career mode We offer over 140 exciting Study Programmes and Apprenticeships, designed to give young people the skills they need for the job of their dreams, and the chance to try them out in the workplace!

Our tutors work closely with businesses to ensure our programmes are up to the minute, so that our learners will be in-demand with employers.

Personal Development Mentors and Careers Coaches will work with your young person to support their progress all the way.

Our full-time Study Programmes open the door to employment or university. 26 subject areas, covering a range of sectors, each maximise career prospects and preparing young people for an exciting future!

Our qualifications start at Entry Level and progress right up to A Level standard and beyond. This means there will be a level to suit your young person’s ability, based on their exam results.

We offer Study Programmes in the following areas: Art, Design & Digital Media - Beauty Therapy Business & Professional Services Barbering - Computing, Digital & IT Construction : (Professional Building, Multi-Skills, Brickwork, Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Painting & Decorating, Plastering, Plumbing) Early Years, Childcare & Education - Engineering ESOL - Event, Hospitality & Catering Management Hairdressing & Make-up Health & Social Care - Motor Vehicle Performing Arts - Professional Building Sport, Fitness & Wellbeing Travel & Tourism - The Sciences Uniformed Public Services

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Full-time Study Programmes Why choose Bolton College?

Technical Qualifications Technical education is our sole focus and we are experts in delivery. If your young person needs to develop their foundation skills to support progression, we will prepare them; or if they’re prepared already, we will ensure they achieve their full potential on our T Level and BTEC advanced programmes, highly regarded by universities and employers.

Vocational Careers Industry Placements and work experience will give your young person the skills, knowledge and experience to confidently begin their future career, or progress to university.

English, Maths & Digital Employers and universities require a GCSE Grade 4 or above in English and Maths, but if your young person didn’t achieve this, don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ll teach them important digital skills too, putting them ahead of the game.

Learner Support Your young person will enjoy FREE travel and breakfast, financial support and a discounted gym membership. Throughout their time with us, they’ll also receive one-to-one support from their dedicated Learning Development Mentor and a Careers Coach, helping them to achieve their ambitions.

Whether success on their chosen programme will take them directly into employment or university, we’re committed to helping your young person develop the skills to succeed in life!

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get into career mode

We offer over 140 exciting Study Programmes and Apprenticeships, designed to give young people the skills they need for the job of their dreams, and the chance to try them out in the workplace!

Our tutors work closely with businesses to ensure our programmes are up to the minute, so that our learners will be in-demand with employers.

Personal Development Mentors and Careers Coaches will work with your young person to support their progress all the way.

Kick-start the future with an Apprenticeship!

Apprenticeships allow young people to learn whilst earning a wage; they’ll spend 80% of their time at work – or 4 days per week - and the remainder of their time in College, learning hands on from industry professionals whilst studying for their technical qualification.

15 subject areas, covering a range of sectors, each maximise career prospects and prepare young people for an exciting future, whether that’s employment or university!

We offer Apprenticeships in the following areas: Barbering – Business & Professional Services Computing, Digital & IT – Construction : (Brickwork, Carpentry & Joinery, Electrical, Painting & Decorating, Plastering, Plumbing, Roofing) Early Years, Childcare & Education Hairdressing & Make-up Health & Social Care – Motor Vehicle Sport, Fitness & Wellbeing

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Why choose an Apprenticeship with Bolton College?

The Benefits • Earn a wage whilst learning and receive paid holidays.

• You can earn 10% more after studying on a Level 3 Apprenticeship, than if you went straight into work.

• 90% of apprentices remain in employment, either with their current employer or another company.

• 85% of employers participate in Apprenticeship programmes, and consider them a good thing.

Learner Support Your young person will enjoy FREE travel, financial support and a discounted gym membership.

Throughout their Apprenticeship, they’ll also receive one-to-one support from their dedicated Work Based Tutor, helping them to achieve their ambitions.

English, Maths & Digital Employers and universities require a GCSE Grade 4 or above in English and Maths, but if your young person didn’t achieve this, don’t worry, we’re here to help! When they’re in College, we’ll teach them important digital skills too, putting them ahead of the game.

Whether success on their chosen Apprenticeship will take them directly into full-time employment or university, we’re committed to helping your young person develop the skills to succeed in life!

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Welcome to the Next Level T Levels are a brand new, two year, nationally recognised qualification that young people will be able to study after their GCSEs. Successfully completing a T Level is the exact same as finishing three A Levels.

T Levels are career focused rather than subject based, combining classroom learning with meaningful on-the-job experience. The programme has been designed with employers and businesses, with the inclusion of English, maths and digital skills.

A major part of a T Level is an industry-based placement, where learners will benefit from applying classroom theory to the workplace, helping to develop the exact skills employers look for.

Courses Available Young people can apply for a range of T Level programmes, including: • • • • • •

Building Services Engineering for Construction Construction – Design, Surveying & Planning Onsite Construction Digital Business Services Digital Production, Design & Development Digital Support Services

• Education & Childcare • Engineering & Manufacturing: Design & Development Electrical/Electronic Pathway • Engineering & Manufacturing: Vehicle Maintenance, Installation & Repair • Healthcare • Management & Administration • Science Please Note: The College will be delivering a range of new T Level programmes in different subject areas.

We will let you know the details once confirmed.

T Levels are different to Apprenticeships because 12

there’s lots more classroom study involved – 80% is classroom learning whilst 20% is on-the-job experience with an employer.

Industry Placements T Level qualifications will train students in gaining top industry skills through a high quality work placement with an employer. This will provide them with the best possible opportunity to enter skilled employment.

Young people will be able to put their classroom learning into practice and further develop their technical skills. The placement lasts a minimum of 315 hours in a role directly related to their course and chosen area.

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English, Maths & Digital Skills Employers choose candidates with good English, maths and digital skills, which means your young person will continue to develop these crucial skills to the standards that employers require.

All of our 16-18 year old learners will study maths and English as part of whatever courses they choose, if they haven’t already achieved GCSE 9-4 when they enrol.

Maths and English • Greatly improve their chances of success on their main course • Are required for many jobs in their chosen vocational sector • Are needed for most university and some FE courses Digital skills English and maths classes prioritise developing digital skills in fun and creative ways and includes: • • • •

Audio and digital media to promote independent learning Highly developed online resource area Interactive technology Audio and visual access to online book publications

Most university courses require a GCSE grade 4 or above in English and maths.

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People with good GCSE grades in English and maths earn approximately £2,000 more per year than those who don’t!

Higher levels of literacy and numeracy are linked to better health and wellbeing.

Sam Hargreaves Maths GCSE Former pupil of Tottington Specialist Maths & Computing College ‘This course has made me more confident and made a huge difference to my maths knowledge, I’m even using it on my motor vehicle course for measurements and converting units.

I’ve been really happy throughout and the tutor has been so supportive, always on hand to answer any questions I may have.’

Savannah Thompson English GCSE Former pupil of Ladybridge High School ‘The tutors here are so helpful and supportive and I’ve found the style of teaching here really easy to understand.

It’s important that I have a GCSE in English, as it’s essential for certain jobs, so this qualification is going to be really useful in the future.’

Good English and maths skills don’t just help in the classroom. proficiency in these subjects improves your communication skills and allows you to understand money as well as the world around you.

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proportal

Bolton College’s Parent and Carer Information Tool

All parents and carers of young people attending Bolton College have access to our ProPortal system, an interactive online service that allows them to review their young person’s progress during their time at College.

ProPortal contains a learner’s personal details as well as their: •

Timetable

•

Attendance and punctuality summary

•

Subject reviews and SMART targets

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Progress being made in all courses

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Upcoming assessments, so that you can remind your young person to submit their work on time

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Times and dates of meetings arranged between your young person and staff

•

Intended Progression details, such as year 2 of study; the next level of programme; and university or employment aspirations.

Students are more likely to be successful in their studies if an effective partnership exists between the College and parents and carers, so ProPortal allows you to access live information and track your young person’s progress from the comfort of your own home.

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Pre-Professionals Programme Our Pre-Professionals Programme can make College less of a daunting place – we’ll help your young person manage their studies, oversee progress and encourage personal development, ensuring that after the short time they spend with us, they’re ready to take on the world!

Individualised academic guidance and career planning No two students are exactly alike, which is why we’ll treat your young person as an individual; they’ll have their own dedicated Learning Development Mentor and a Careers Coach, helping them to create both academic and career plans.

We’ll review your young person’s needs individually so that we can provide: • Learning support tailored to their unique requirements • Motivation and aspirations for staying on track • Support in overcoming difficult situations • A tailored Personal Learning Plan The programme ensures your young person improves their employability by helping them: • Find their dream role • Benefit from placements and volunteering, in England and abroad • Create a professional profile • Develop their customer skills • Improve interview performance

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Logan Flynn Health & Social Care Level 3 Former pupil of Sharples School Industry Placement at The Clough Care Home ‘My Industry Placement has secured me employment; I was able to put in to practice my lessons from College, which impressed my managers, and led to a permanent role. Long term, I want to apply to Edge Hill to train as a Paramedic, so this will look great on my CV.’

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INDUSTRY PLACEMENT LEADS TO EMPLOYMENT

THREE DISTINCTION STAR Graded Student!

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Daniel Hayes Engineering Level 3 Former pupil of Thornleigh Salesian College Industry Placement at Howorth Air Tech ‘The College collaborates with lots of leading companies; they arranged an Industry Placement at Howorth Air Tech, a top engineering business, which then led to full-time employment; the manager was really impressed with me, so as soon as I finished my course, he offered me an Apprenticeship!’

Workplace Learning What’s special about Bolton College is that we are solely focused on vocational learning. All of our courses engage with local businesses, ensuring that the skills our young people learn are completely up to date.

They can expect to spend time with an employer, either on short work experience, an extended Industry Placement, or they might prefer to learn whilst working their way through our Apprenticeship route. Whichever they choose, they can be confident that when they leave us, they will have the latest skills and a good understanding of the work culture of their chosen career.

What this means for your young person: Level 1 Study Programme They will complete a Youth Social Action Project, developing their entrepreneurial skills and contributing to life in Bolton.

Level 2 Study Programme They will experience a minimum 30-hour work placement with an employer, allowing them to apply their new skills.

Level 3 Study Programme They will experience an extended Industry Placement, completing a high-level project with an employer, for 20% of their course.

Apprenticeship At all levels they will have a job attracting an Apprenticeship salary, whilst attending College for 20% of the time to study for their technical qualification.

Please note: some courses have different arrangements to meet the professional requirements of their occupations.

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Progression to University (HE) Our full-time study programmes and Apprenticeships offer the perfect stepping stone to university.

We’re part of the University of Bolton Group, which means that alongside your young person’s studies, they’ll have a unique opportunity to be part of the University’s EXCEED programme.

This will give them a range of opportunities to build additional skills and experiences, which are perfect for that next step into Higher Education!

The University of Bolton EXCEED membership Your young person will have the opportunity to join the programme alongside their college studies so that they can discover a whole host of resources designed to enhance their skills and experiences.

We’ll provide: • Masterclasses and guest lectures from expert professionals in their field.

• University visits and use of modern facilities.

• A student mentorship programme, pairing your young person with a Bolton College student who has progressed to the University of Bolton, allowing them to ask questions and alleviate any anxieties.

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• Extra support with their university applications, including CV writing, interview pointers and portfolio advice.

EXCEED will help learners to become a….

• • • • • • • • • •

Future Artist Future Engineer Future Creative Future Business Leader Future Health Professional Future Sport Practitioner Future Scientist Future Law Professional Future Psychologist Future Teacher

Take a look at some of our students who have progressed to Higher Education...

For more detailed information please visit: www.boltoncollege.ac.uk/ higher-education

Valeria Kolosovska Public Services HND Now studying Criminal Justice at the University of Bolton

‘I actually progressed from Public Services Level 1 and the College gave me everything I needed to get in to university so that eventually, I can join the police force; our tutors helped us to create a portfolio for interviews, really making us stand out from the crowd.’

Athena Hesketh Computing HND Progressing to the University of Bolton ‘I chose this because I want to reskill in the field of computing.

After this, I’d like to do a top-up degree at the University of Bolton, then I’d like a job in programming as I’ve really enjoyed the JavaScript side of the course.’

James Cann Civil Engineering HNC ‘I want to become a qualified civil engineer, so this course is just what I was looking for; it’s allowing me to take my career to the next level and go to university.’

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All About the Money If you’re worried about the cost of your young person coming to College come and talk to us.

Contact Student Services on 01204 482 182 or email studentfinance@boltoncc.ac.uk

Discretionary Bursary This funding is available to learners with a household income of less than £25,000 per year and helps cover the cost of studying.

The Discretionary Bursary is awarded as help with the cost of travel to and from College.

College Offers

Student Support Allowance

Bolton College offers a wide range of:

This bursary can offer up to £33 per week to help towards the cost of coming to College.

• Free sports and recreational activities at lunchtimes and after College • Savings on food in our canteen, coffee shop and restaurant • Discounted rates at The Academy, our hair & beauty salon

This bursary is available if your young person: •

Is in care or are a care-leaver

•

Receives Employment Support Allowance and Disability Living Allowance/Personal Independence Payment in their own right

•

Receives Income Support in their own right

•

Receives Universal Credit, paid in place of Income Support, in their own right

• Subsidised trips and visits • Discounted membership fees for our on-site Fitness Suite

Courses are usually free if a learner is:

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•

Aged 16-18

Care to Learn

•

A British or European Union resident

•

On a full or part-time, government-funded further education course

If your young person is a parent, aged 19 or under, they may be eligible for financial assistance from the government’s Care to Learn scheme.

The scheme provides help with the costs of having a child looked after at an Ofsted registered nursery or childminder whilst they study at College. To find out more and to apply online, visit www.gov.uk/care-to-learn

Free College Meals To receive a free College meal, your young person in their own right, or you as a parent or carer, must be in receipt of one or more of the following benefits: •

Income Support

•

Income-based Jobseekers Allowance

•

Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

•

Support under part VI of the Immigration & Asylum Act 1999

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The guarantee element of State Pension Credit

•

Child Tax Credit, provided you/they are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190 as assessed by HMRC

•

Universal Credit with net earnings not exceeding the equivalent of £7,400 per annum

Your young person is only eligible when they, or a responsible adult on their behalf, have made a successful application once enrolled. *For students who meet eligibility criteria. These details refer to the support available in 2021-22.

Visit www.boltoncollege.ac.uk/financial-support

TOTUM Cards on a study If you’re 16 or over and n up for a sig programme, you can m.com otu w.t TOTUM Card at ww and deals ts un co Receive student dis street h hig as, at places like cinem ts. ran tau res d shops, events an

Current TOTUM Card offers include:

10% off 10% off Amazon prime student membership – 6 months free then £3.99 per month

40% off food, 25% off drinks 25% off Student Tickets

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learner Support For more information, contact Learner Support on 01204 482 669 or email studentsupportadmins@boltoncc.ac.uk Inclusion for All Bolton College is committed to providing equal opportunities in education for all learners and we will do all we can to meet the needs of individuals.

Learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities or Anxiety If your young person has a special educational need or disability, or anxiety, they should make sure their tutor knows.

This is for any special need they have, and it doesn’t matter whether they have an Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP). For example, your young person might have a medical condition or find it difficult to travel by themselves. Their education provider the College - will help them to prepare and plan for their placement, make sure they have the support they need and that the employer knows about their needs, so that any adjustments can be made, if required.

If your young person needs support for their disability at their work placement, staff at College will work with them to design a plan that is right for them. They will also talk to the employer so that they understand their needs and can work with them.

Risk Assessments In addition to the health and safety policies in the workplace, the College may have completed a risk assessment relating to your young person’s disability and personal circumstances. Your young person should be familiar with this.

Their employer will also be familiar with it. They can also check this with their 26 support contact at College.

How we can help We can provide support for your young person if they are a learner with: • D/deaf • Visual impairment • Autism • Learning difficulty/disability • Language, literacy or numeracy needs • A physical disability • Mental health needs • Dyslexia • Other specific barriers to education and/or learning We also offer: • Bespoke sampling, tours and individual transition planning • Access arrangements assessments • Specialist equipment and resources • A dedicated liaison service from a team of SEN specialists, working across the fields of learning difficulties and disabilities; mental health specialist tutors; and SEN specialists for D/deaf and visually impaired learners • Appointments with specialist tutors • In-class support • One-to-one appointments • Specialist drop-ins for learners with high needs For more information, contact the Learner Support administration team on 01204 482 669 or alternatively email: studentsupportadmins @boltoncc.ac.uk

Learning Difficulties, Physical Disabilities, Medical Conditions or Looked After Children/Young People Leaving Care We offer advice and develop support plans that are tailored to your young person’s individual needs.

This includes: • Help with enrolment and one-to-one support interviews to discuss the type of support needed • A thorough transition programme and working relations with education, justice and health and social care teams, to ensure that all support needs are met in College • A support plan shared on a ‘need to know’ basis with the relevant tutors • Additional literacy and numeracy support via our Key Support Tutor Team and one-to-one BKSB literacy and numeracy assessments • Ongoing pastoral support To arrange a support interview contact our Head of Learner Support, Janet Bishop, at janet.bishop@boltoncc.ac.uk or call 01204 482 654.

Alternatively you can contact our Transition & Support Leader, Gillian Lonsdale, at gillian.lonsdale@boltoncc.ac.uk or call 01204 482 579.

Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) If your young person requires a personalised transition and support plan, please inform the College as soon as possible. For more information, contact EHCP Review Officer Heather Rylance via heather.rylance@boltoncc.ac.uk or Lindsay Gleaves, our Inclusion Officer, at lindsay.gleaves@boltoncc.ac.uk Telephone 01204 482 648 – Room AG.18

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learner Support Continued

Support for Students with Mental Health Issues Your young person may be feeling very anxious or nervous but specialist mentors at College can help them to learn techniques to cope with anything that is worrying them. We offer: • Individual interviews to assess support needs and put support plans in place • Ongoing pastoral support throughout the year • Help with enrolment procedures • Liaison with CAMHS and Community Mental Health Teams • We advocate on behalf of students if necessary Contact our SEN specialist for Mental Health Rachel Butler at rachel.butler@ boltoncc.ac.uk or call 01204 482 589

Contact Learner Support Admin on studentsupportadmins@boltoncc. ac.uk Telephone 01204 482 669

Support for Visually Impaired Students (VI) If your young person has a disability or difficulty, please let us know beforehand. This way we can arrange for them to come in to have a confidential assessment with one of our specialist teams, to ensure that we have the necessary support in place for them.

Contact our SEN Specialist in Disability and VI Amelia Duckett at amelia.duckett@boltoncc.ac.uk or call 01204 482 668 We provide pastoral support and advice for visually impaired students, including signposting to other agencies. This support can include:

Support Workers

Braille

Social Activities

Tactile

Support for D/deaf Students We provide a range of support for D/deaf learners throughout the College. This support can include: • A Communication Support Worker (CSW), including deaf-blind CSWs • A D/deaf counsellor • Equipment to provide visual aids • Film equipment and cameras • Hearing loops • Lip-speakers • Note-takers • Social activities, such as the D/deaf prom and summer school • Technical tutorials with your course tutor • Widget (BSL) software

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Moving on with Careers If your young person needs support for their disability in work or in a work placement or Industry Placement, staff at College will work with them to design a plan that is right for them.

They will also talk to the employer so that they will understand their needs.

This is a good opportunity for your young person to practice working with someone to support them, and will give them the skills they need in the future to continue support into any employment through the Access to Work scheme, provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Audio Equipment

Whatever your young person’s support needs, please do not hesitate to contact us - we have many ways to ensure they get the best possible experience at College.

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How to Apply Full-time study programmes

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Ensure your young person keeps their mobile number and email address up to date, as this is how we will contact them about their application.

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Book an interview slot Your young person can book an interview time via our online service.

The booking link will be in their interview invitation text.

They can also ring us on 01204 482 155, once they have their invite.

Attend or view an Open Event Visit us in person, view our Virtual Open Event or do both!

6 Attend an interview

3 Find a course and apply Your young person can learn more about the courses they’re interested in on our website by visiting www.boltoncollege. ac.uk When they’ve decided which one they’d like to join, click the ‘apply’ button.

They’ll be asked to set up a Bolton College Learner Hub account, so that they can track their application and enrol online in August.

If they have any difficulties setting up their Learner Hub account, please visit learner.hub@boltoncc.ac.uk

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Look out for their text invitation to book an interview

Read the Guide

Encourage your young person to find a course that interests them by reading our Young People’s Course Guide – they should have a copy. If they prefer, an online version is available at: www.boltoncollege.ac.uk/ypg

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At their interview, a tutor will tell your young person all about their study programme to make sure it’s right for them.

They will also ask them some questions. Check out our Guide to Interviews www.boltoncollege.ac.uk/admissionshow-to-apply

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Interview outcome or result If the interviewer offers your young person a conditional place on one of our courses, we will email them a confirmation. All our course offers are conditional on them achieving the necessary GCSE grades and getting a good reference from school.

If your young person isn’t offered a place at the end of their interview, don’t worry. We will refer them to a more suitable subject or to our Careers Team, who will offer them advice on their options.

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New Student Day & initial assessment We aren’t sure how our New Student Day and Initial Assessments will run this year, but we will keep your young person informed via email and text once they have been offered a place.

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Congratulations!

Your young person has now enrolled on to their study programme.

Once they have collected their College ID card, they must wear it every time they are in College.

HOW TO APPLY

To express an interest in an Apprenticeship once your young person has finished school, they need to find the Apprenticeship on our website by visiting www.boltoncollege.ac.uk then click the ‘Apply’ button to express their interest.

They’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that they can track their application.

If they have any difficulties setting up their Learner Hub account, please visit learner.hub@boltoncc.ac.uk

Enrol and secure a place Your young person will be able to enrol and confirm their place once they have collected their GCSE results in August.

We’ll email them with all the details they need to do this in August.

School Events & Taster Sessions Tell your young person to look out for Bolton College’s Schools Liaison Team at their school events so they, or you as a parent or carer, can talk to us about opportunities at the College, as well as Further Education in general.

Speak to our School Liaison Team on 01204 482 142.

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admissions All you need to know!

Here, the Admissions Team answer some common questions, helping to make that move to College completely stress free.

HOW DOES IT WORK after application?

When we receive their application, we’ll text your young person with a link to book their interview. If they prefer, they can book their interview time over the phone. Ensure mobile numbers and email addresses are up to date!

How frequent are INTERVIEWS? Each subject has interviews at least once a month, from November.

What’s a CONDITIONAL OFFER? It’s a promise to provide your young person with a College place, provided they achieve certain criteria – this could be a particular GCSE grade, good reference or suitable work placement. Their offer will be confirmed in writing.

How to JOIN US and ENROL! Enrolment starts from GCSE results day. We’ll email your young person with all the details they need to complete their enrolment in August.

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WANTED! Ambitious, motivated young people!

My young person’s not got the GCSE GRADES they thought they would?

Don’t panic – we have courses at all different levels and we’ll give your young person impartial information, advice and guidance about their options.

My young person needs to change CONTACT DETAILS! They can change their email address and phone number by logging in to their Bolton College Learner Hub account via www.bit.ly/ LearnerHub or they can send their name, date of birth and new contact details to admissions@ boltoncc.ac.uk

If you have any further questions, contact the Admissions Team on 01204 482 155 or email admissions@boltoncc.ac.uk they’ll be happy to help!

Pre-Professionals Programme A Level:

This is a Level 3 qualification which is available in many subjects. It takes two years to complete and students will sit all A Level exams at the end of two years of study. Three A Levels are usually required to meet university entrance requirements. A Levels are not suitable for all learners.

Alternative Curriculum:

A vocational qualification programme for 14 – 16 year olds which can be achieved in a school or college environment in various vocational subjects e.g. Construction, Hair & Beauty, Health & Social Care and Motor Vehicle.

These programmes can be a springboard to another programme or an Apprenticeship after secondary school.

Apprenticeship:

Where apprentices learn an occupation by hands-on experience whilst working with a skilled worker. Apprentices earn a wage whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification, also referred to as ‘Earn as you Learn’.

Baccalaureate:

A collection of GCSEs when studied in unison are known as a baccalaureate. Not a qualification in itself, they are often referred to as the EBacc and are favoured by the Russell Group universities.

BTEC:

This is a vocational and work-related programme, designed to meet the needs of employers and allow students to progress on to university. The qualification takes a practical approach to learning, without missing any of the important theory. BTECs can be studied at a variety of levels and are fully recognised as holding equivalences to GCSEs. A BTEC Level Extended Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels.

Bursary:

Bursary funding allows a learner to pay for items like clothing, books, equipment for their programme, transport to college and lunch on the days that they study. Bursaries have strict criteria and are usually for a fixed amount of money.

Continuous Assessment:

The system where students’ work is marked and graded throughout a programme, rather than just at the end of their course.

CV:

A CV or Curriculum Vitae is a document outlining a pupil’s school career.

CVs include subjects studied, results and extra-curricular activities. CVs are still requested by many employers when applying for employment.

Educational Healthcare Plan:

An Educational Healthcare Plan is an individual plan that meets the needs of the student or young plan. Designed for pupils with learning and physical difficulties: www.bolton.gov.uk

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FE:

Further Education. This is education taken after school-leaving age (16-18).

FE is usually used to describe education undertaken between school and Higher Education (university).

GCSE:

General Certificate of Secondary Education. The first qualification obtained

by UK students at the age of about 16. There is no age limit and mature or international students may take GCSE examinations.

HE:

Higher Education. This involves study for a degree or higher-level qualification at college or university.

NVQ:

National Vocational Qualification. This is a qualification relating to an area of employment. It is a practical hands-on programme, where students learn by doing, with standards set by the relevant industry.

Ofsted:

The official Government body for inspecting schools and colleges. Ofsted publish all of their reports on their website www.ofsted.gov.uk

Personal Statement:

Written information completed by a learner about themselves. It outlines their school achievements and extracurricular activities. Used when using UCAS Progress and when applying to university.

Russell Group Universities:

The Russell Group represents 24 leading UK universities.

Scholarship:

In private schools, this is money awarded to support a student’s education. It is often awarded on the basis of high academic achievement.

Study Programme:

A Department for Education (DFE) initiative which aims to individualise all learners’ education and training experience whilst enhancing their employment opportunities. Study Programmes are designed to complement all learner pathways, both vocational and academic.

Training Provider:

An organisation responsible for arranging Apprenticeship programmes. www.apprenticeships.org.uk

T Level:

Two-year technical programmes, designed with employers, to give young people the skills that industries need. Equivalent to three A Levels, the ‘T’ stands for technical, with 20% of the programme consisting of a sector-specific industry placement.

UCAS Progress:

This is an interactive website which allows pupils to search for programmes and places to study in their local area. If the school has registered their students, they will also be able to apply for programmes online. Requires a login and a password to access.

Vocational Qualification:

This is a qualification aimed at preparation for employment, taught via a practical, hands-on method, usually with continuous assessment.

Work Placement:

The part of a programme that provides the opportunity of gaining practical experience via work experience in their preferred profession.

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Why Choose Bolton College • Ofsted graded ‘good’ • No. 1 FE College for 16-18 achievement rates for higher level qualifications in Greater Manchester • Choice of 140 study programmes, T Levels and Apprenticeships across 26 industry areas • Part of the University of Bolton Group • Offers high quality work experience and industry placements to learners, preparing them for the world of work

Useful Links Connexions: www.connexions-bolton.com National Apprenticeship website: www.apprenticeships.org.uk National Careers Service: www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk UCAS progress: www.ucas.com/progress Ofsted: www.reports.ofsted.gov.uk

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Admissions 01204 482 155 admissions@boltoncc.ac.uk Apprenticeships 01204 482 036 apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk Customer Support 01204 482 000 info@boltoncc.ac.uk Learner Support 01204 482 669 studentsupportadmins@boltoncc.ac.uk Student Finance 01204 482 191 studentfinance@boltoncc.ac.uk

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