Your future. Your way. School leavers’ guide Northumberland College
#YourFutureYourWay | northumberland.ac.uk
Open events. We host a series of open events throughout the year to give you a small taste of what campus life is like at Northumberland College. Speak to our expert teaching staff, meet fellow students, and explore our amazing facilities and our team will be on hand to help with everything from careers guidance to advice on financial support available.
For more information on our Open Events visit our website to book your place
Contents. Why choose Northumberland College? . . . . . . . . . . 2 How to find us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Student support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Which route is right for you?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Vocational & technical courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 T Levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Apprenticeships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Pathways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Foundation Learning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 How to apply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Information for parents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Keep in touch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
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It’s in our DNA. At Northumberland College, our values make us unique. They transform lives and make us stronger. They create a positive and inclusive environment for our students to thrive, develop and feel valued. We challenge and think differently and encourage a culture of innovation. We experiment and collaborate to discover new ways of learning and create exciting new futures. Our staff are ambitious and have high expectations. They make a real difference to the lives of our students, motivating and challenging them to be the best they can be. It’s in our DNA. We live, breath and believe our values so we can inspire the next generation and positively shape lives, communities and the economy.
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School leavers’ guide
Northumberland College vibe. Coming to Northumberland College will give you the opportunity to experience a new independence, discover a self-belief for who you want to be and get excited about your future potential. A different environment Compared to school, you will find that Northumberland College is a more mature environment. You will be treated like an adult and an individual, which will help you become more independent and better prepared for your next steps after college, whether that is to further study or a job.
More opportunities and choice You’ll have lots of opportunities to take part in activities outside of the classroom to boost your confidence and develop essential life skills personal qualities. Northumberland College will offer you a wider choice of courses in different subject areas and at different levels.
A fresh start Starting college is a great opportunity to learn what you love and become the person you were destined to be.
More independence At Northumberland College you can start making your own decisions. Your timetable will be very different to school with timetabled free periods for study, extra-curricular activities or a part-time job.
Specialist staff and facilities Our expert staff are passionate and enthusiastic about what they do and work hard to make a difference to the lives of our students. You will be inspired every day and be motivated to be the best you can be. You will develop resilience, be ready to take on challenges and be ambitious for your future career and the impact you can make on the world.
New connections We are proud of our diverse student community and embrace an inclusive culture where our students have the freedom to be themselves. You will meet lots of new people with different backgrounds and interests at Northumberland College and will make friends for life.
We have invested in industry-standard facilities and equipment to give you the skills and knowledge to prepare for university and employment. Visit us at northumberland.ac.uk 3
Choose the best. Students are at the heart of everything that we do at Northumberland College and your wellbeing, development and achievements mean the world to us. First choice We are part of Education Partnership North East. Top of the class Top performing college group in the region based on student achievement rates. National Achievement Rates 2022-23
We are the top performing Land-based college in the North East. National Achievement Rates 2022-23
We are ranked 1st in the North East for Construction and Engineering student achievement.
Career-ready talent You can nurture your talent through our excellent links with employers and gain access to industry-specific learning opportunities such as masterclasses and experts. Inspiring careers education We are recognised regionally and nationally for our high-quality approach to careers education. Our excellent technical curriculum is co-designed and co-delivered by employers which means our students go on to outstanding career opportunities. All students undertake external work experience or placements and are involved in Future Ready classes.
National Achievement Rates 2022-23
We have a 100% pass rate in Animal Management, Beauty Therapy, Childcare and Education, Equine Management, Motor Vehicle, Sport and Travel and Tourism. 2021-22 student achievement rates for Northumberland College.
Multi-million-pound investments Continuous investment in industry-standard facilities supports students to study in the latest state-of-the-art teaching and learning environments. 4
School leavers’ guide
We’ve got your back We have excellent student support and are passionate about positive health and wellbeing. Our personal development of students is Outstanding (Ofsted 2022).
Ofsted quality In our latest Ofsted inspection, we were rated Good (Ofsted 2022).
Learn from the best Our expert and highly qualified staff are passionate educators who are subject specialists or industry professionals.
Positive progression 89% of our students progressed to further study, university or employment. Destination data for Northumberland College, 2021-22 16-18 completers.
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Lewis’ story
Fynnlay’s story
Paige’s story
“Northumberland College provided me with the skills and qualifications for employment and gave me the practical experience to get ready for the real world.”
“The best things about studying at Northumberland College were the practical modules and the opportunity to do work experience.”
“Studying at Northumberland College improved my confidence. The lecturers are always very supportive and helpful.”
Previous school: Ashington High School Studied: Uniformed Public Services Progressed to: Ashington High School
Previous school: Duchess Community High School Studied: Sport & Exercise Science Progressed to: BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy at the University of Cumbria
Previous school: Duchess Community High School Studied: Health & Social Care Progressed to: BSc Occupational Therapy at Northumbria University
Sarah’s story
Matthew’s story
Sian’s story
“I chose Northumberland College as it has the best Animal Management course, and you gain hands-on experience at Kirkley Hall Zoo.”
“I would highly recommend Northumberland College as it has some fantastic courses available and lecturers that will help you achieve your goals.”
“Studying at Northumberland College didn’t just give me experience with horses, it helped me become a more confident person in myself.”
Previous school: Victor Grammar School Studied: Animal Management Progressed to: FdSc Animal Welfare and Management at Northumberland College
Previous school: Ashington High School Studied: Engineering Progressed to: Manufacturing Operator at AkzoNobel
School leavers’ guide
Previous school: Berwick Academy Studied: Equine Progressed to: Owns her own equine groom and coaching business, SMH Equine Services
An innovative place to learn. Our campuses have a welcoming and supportive vibe. Our students thrive in our state-of-the-art learning spaces that replicate real world environments and are aligned to future industry demands. We continually invest millions of pounds in our facilities so our students can be innovators who solve the problems of tomorrow. Ashington Campus Ashington is home to our largest campus with industry-standard engineering and construction workshops, commercial hair and beauty salon, and 40-seat commercial restaurant and kitchens. COMING IN 2025: We will be opening our new ground-breaking Ashington Campus at Wansbeck Business Park which will house an Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering and Construction Skills Centre; a Green Transport, Automotive and Logistics Hub; Digital Classrooms and VR environments; a simulated hospital; a centre for young people with SEND; and much more!
Berwick Campus Our Berwick Campus in Spittal offers a supportive and welcoming environment for school leavers and adult learners, we will help prepare you for your future career. Kirkley Hall Campus Set in the beautiful Northumberland countryside, our specialist 400-acre animal and land-based campus has an industrystandard Equine Centre for Excellence, Military Academy, working farm, inspiring and state-of-the-art SEND facilities, and is home to Northumberland College Zoo with 200 species of animals. We have also created new industry informed classrooms and workshops for automation, robotics and agritech, plus engineering and manufacturing workshops, in addition to a 360-degree immersive hub, new barns, technical farm resources, sheep handling facilities and shearing facilities and a new arboriculture area.
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Residential Accommodation. Living on campus at Kirkley Hall is a fantastic way to meet new people and experience everything Northumberland College has to offer. Its unique rural setting, near Ponteland, is surrounded by 400-acres of beautiful countryside and nature. A different environment The accommodation is self-catered, with fully equipped kitchens. Each room is single occupancy with Wi-Fi access.
With access to the computer rooms and Shack Common Room in the evenings, you will develop your independence, confidence and maturity living away from home.
To apply to live in our halls of residence you must: • live more than five miles from Kirkley Hall Campus or travel more than two hours on public transport • Be able to live independently • Have a permanent abode that you live at weekends and during college holidays
Your safety is important to us Managed by a dedicated team who maintain our facilities and always ensure student safety, we offer a holistic package of support which also gives parents and carers the reassurance that their child is well cared for.
On campus activities You will take part in exciting out-of-hours activities including sport and social events.
If you are interested in living in our on-site accommodation, visit www.northumberland.ac.uk or email accommodation@northumberland.ac.uk.
Our Students’ Union (SU) is run by students and is for students. They represent all students, raise important issues and ensure your voice is heard. They are there to make sure you have the best experience during your time with us.
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How to find us. Ashington, Berwick and Kirkley Hall campuses 3 Berwick Campus
Ellington Lynemouth
1
Pegswood Morpeth
Ashington Campus Guide post Choppington
Stakeford Cambois
Bedlington
Blyth East Hartford
Cramlington
2 Kirkley Hall Campus
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Annitsford Seghill Ponteland
1. Ashington Campus College Road, Ashington, NE63 9RG What.3.Words: expressed.opera.tides Walking Ashington Campus is an approximate 30-minute walk from the town centre and accessible by pedestrian links. Bus services Ashington Campus is serviced by several local bus routes including Northumberland College’s transport scheme through Cooper’s Tourmaster Travel and Stagecoach, available from locations across Northumberland, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and North Tyneside. Train services From 2024, a new train station in Ashington will open on the Northumberland line from Newcastle-upon-Tyne which will include car parking spaces, taxi rank and stair and lift access to platforms. The station will be a 30-minute walk to the current Ashington Campus, and 10 minutes to our new campus at Wansbeck Business Park. Car parking Ashington Campus is located on College Road from which the A189 and A19 are easily accessible. There is free parking on site.
2. Kirkley Hall Campus Ponteland, Northumberland, NE20 0AQ What.3.Words: layers.dote.skill Bus services Kirkley Hall Campus is serviced by Northumberland College’s transport scheme through Cooper’s Tourmaster Travel and Stagecoach, available from locations across
Northumberland, Newcastle-upon-Tyne and North Tyneside. Tyne & Wear Metro The closest Metro station to Kirkley Hall Campus is: Newcastle International Airport – 30 minutes from campus on the X79 (Stagecoach) from Ponteland Road. Car Parking Despite its rural location, Kirkley Hall Campus is accessible from the A1 via Ponteland (A696). There is free parking on site.
3. Berwick Campus Adams Drive, Spittal, Berwick-upon-Tweed What.3.Words: feed.frozen.gentle Walking Berwick Campus is an approximate 30-minute walk from Berwick-upon-Tweed town centre. Bus services Berwick Campus is serviced by several local bus routes. Train services Berwick-upon-Tweed train station is located on the East Coast Main Line and is an approximate 30-minute walk to the campus. Car parking Berwick Campus is accessible from the A1. There is free parking on site.
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We’ve got your back. If you need any support during your time with us, we’re here to help. We value the differences that make us all unique. If your differences mean that you need additional support to be the best you can be, we can provide you with a range of support and wellbeing services that will help you to reach your full potential! Be the amazing person you were destined to be. Our Future Ready Hubs provide a one stop shop for all your support needs. Student finance You could be eligible for financial assistance such as help with transport costs, kit costs, childcare, free meals and bursaries depending on your circumstances. Contact welfare@educationpartnershipne.ac.uk if you have any queries.
Health & wellbeing We can provide counselling and support for any personal and health-related issues to make sure you get the very best out of your time with us. If you need help, just ask! We have lots of support available if you feel overwhelmed, need advice or just a friendly face to talk to.
Personal tutor When you start college, you will be allocated a dedicated personal tutor who will help you settle into college life and be your first point of contact for any issues you have.
Learning support Our expert Learning Support Team can help with specialist services and equipment to support your studies. Contact learningsupport@educationpartnershipne. ac.uk for more information.
Self, Society and Skills You will have weekly Self, Society and Skills session to build your skills, to boost your confidence, stay motivated and support you in fulfilling your own unique potential. Careers advice Our award-winning Information, Advice and Guidance Team can support you with expert careers and course guidance, UCAS and employment applications, future study options and much more! 12
School leavers’ guide
LGBTQ+ support We are an inclusive college that embraces diversity. We can offer specific LGBTQ+ support and our college group, True Colours, offers a safe environment where everyone feels valued and has the freedom to be themselves.
Get future ready. Universities and employers are looking for more than a qualification. During your time with us, we will provide you with a great experience and lots of opportunities so you can develop the skills and qualities that they demand. Employability opportunities We work with hundreds of employers to help you become career ready. Taking part in work experience, an industry placements and visits or masterclasses will give you the edge in the job market and ensure you develop the skills, knowledge and experience that employers love! It also shows you are motivated and keen to develop yourself and will give you an exciting insight into a future career.
They will look great on your CV and will develop your high-level technical skills. They will also build your confidence and resilience and will help you to develop valuable skills.
All students undertake external work experience and are involved in Future Ready classes.
These new experiences and opportunities will help you to: • Discover a natural talent for something new • Fulfil your potential • Increase your confidence and reduce anxiety • Develop your personal qualities and transferable skills such as creativity, selfdiscipline, ambition and leadership • Find out you’re capable of more than you think
Skills competitions You’ll have the opportunity to challenge yourself and showcase your newly developed skills and talent in regional, national and even international competitions such as Young Horticulturist of the Year, Association of Hairdressers and Therapists, Guild of Bricklayers, Young Seafood Chef of the Year and WorldSkills.
Why we love enrichment Through our extensive enrichment programme, you will develop essential life and employability skills to prepare you for an exciting new future.
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Your next step. Our entry requirements vary for each course. Check the individual course pages on our website for specific entry requirements. We offer courses at various levels so you can start at the level that’s right for you and progress to the highest level you can achieve. Entry Level
Foundation & Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
“I have no formal qualifications”
“I have at least 1 GCSE at grade 1”
“I have at least 2 GCSEs at grade 3”
“I have at least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above” *
If you haven’t already gained any qualifications, entry level courses are great for helping you to improve your basic reading, writing and IT skills.
These foundation level courses help you gain an introductory knowledge of a subject area and can prepare you to progress further.
These intermediate courses will provide you with a route into a career or prepare you for higher level study.
These advanced courses will challenge you and develop your understanding of a subject area and will prepare you for employment or degree level study.
Entry Levels 1, 2 or 3.
Introductory Diplomas, Level 1 Awards /Certificates /Diplomas, Level 1 NVQ.
Level 2 Certificates /Diplomas, Level 2 NVQ, Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeships.
A-Levels, Level 3 Certificates/ Diplomas/ Subsidiary Diplomas/ Extended Diplomas, Level 3 NVQ, Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeships, T Levels.
* Even if you have the exam results for Level 3 study, some subjects such as hair, barbering, beauty therapy and construction trades need to be started at Level 1 or 2 to allow you to develop specialist skills.
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Studying English and maths at college. English and maths are important life skills that will support you in achieving the most from your studies and progression to a dream career.
If you have achieved a grade 9-4 in GCSE English and / or maths at school, you will develop your English and maths skills throughout your course at college.
Employers and universities want you to have them, and GCSE English and maths qualifications could be the difference between being accepted onto a university course, securing employment or gaining a promotion. They will also help you to progress to higher level study and provide you with better life and job opportunities.
If you have achieved a grade 3-1 in GCSE English and / or maths at school, you will re-sit your GCSE qualification at college. If you did not achieve a grade in GCSE English and / or maths at school, we can discuss the best English and maths study options for you at college.
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Find the right route for you. Choosing the right study route and the right subjects to study at college means you will engage in a course that you are passionate about, guiding you towards an exciting and rewarding career. Vocational and technical courses These courses are designed to prepare you for a career or higher-level study. You will gain skills for a specific career sector and experience a more hands on way of learning to develop your practical skills and knowledge.
T Levels Our T Level qualifications will give you the opportunity to experience an industry while studying. You will gain a high-quality, technical qualification and job-specific skills and knowledge through a combination of classroom learning and an industrial placement to develop practical and technical skills.
Apprenticeships Apprenticeships can help you get started in a new career by combining study with real work experience and earning a wage. You will learn ‘hands on’ in a specific job role and have a fast-track route into your chosen career.
Foundation Learning Our Directions programme is for young people with a wide range of additional needs in relation to education. We offer a personalised programme, delivered by specialist staff to make sure you achieve your goals and fulfil your potential.
Pathways Our Pathways programme will help you to progress to employment or prepare for further study. You will also develop your confidence and personal, social and employability skills so you can fulfil your true potential and get ready for your next steps.
ESOL If English is not your first language, we can help you develop your skills in an Englishspeaking environment. You will also explore British culture to help you integrate and contribute to society and gain the skills and knowledge you need to fulfil your career ambitions in the UK.
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Vocational courses Ashington Campus, Kirkley Hall Campus & Berwick Campus
Our vocational courses are more ‘hands on’ and will prepare you for a career or higher-level study. You will develop practical and work-related skills which are highly valued by employers. Full programme vocational courses mix practical and classroom learning with real-world experience to really enhance your career prospects.
A Level 3 qualification, equivalent to A-Levels, is accepted by most universities.
89% of students progress to employment, further study or employment. *Destination data for Northumberland College, 2021-22 16-18 completers.
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FULL-TIME VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL COURSES
Course
Entry Requirements
Agriculture Level 1
Diploma Land-based Studies
An interest in starting a career in the land-based sector.
Level 3
Advanced Extended Diploma Agriculture (1080)
4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language, maths and sciences or a Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject.
Animal Management Level 1
Diploma Land-Based Studies (Animal Care)
No formal entry requirements.
Level 2
Extended Certificate Animal Care
Recommended 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above ideally including English Language or Science.
Level 3
Advanced Extended Diploma Animal Management (1080)
Advanced Technical Certificate Animal Management and 4 GCSEs at grades 4 or above including English Language and/or Maths and Science. Advanced Technical Diploma Animal Management and 5 GCSEs at grades 5 or above including English Language, Maths and Science.
Progression : Progress to BSc (Hons) Animal Welfare & Management (Top Up), BSc Wildlife Conservation (Top Up) FdSc Animal Welfare & Management or FdSc Wildlife Conservation.
Automotive Engineering Level 1
Diploma Light Vehicle Maintenance
No formal entry requirements.
Level 2
Certificate Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles
2 GCSEs at grade 3 or above or a relevant Level 1 qualification.
Level 3
Diploma Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles
Relevant Level 2 qualification or substantial industry experience.
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FULL-TIME VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL COURSES
Course
Entry Requirements
Computing & IT Level 2
Extended Certificate IT and Digital Business
5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 including English Language and Maths or a relevant Level 2 IT qualification.
Level 3
Diploma IT
5 GCSEs at grades 9-5 including IT and/or Merit at Level 2 Extended Certificate in IT.
Progression: Progress to HNC Computing.
Construction & Building Services Diploma Carpentry & Joinery Level 1
Certificate Construction Multi-Skills Diploma Brickwork
Basic literacy and numeracy skills
Diploma Brickwork
At least 2 GCSEs at grade 3 or above in English and maths, or a relevant Level 1 qualification.
Diploma Site Carpentry
At least 2 GCSEs at grade 3 or above in English and maths, or a relevant Level 1 qualification.
Advanced Technical Diploma Plumbing
GCSE grades 4 or above in English and maths and a Level 2 Plumbing qualification.
Diploma Site Carpentry
GCSE at grade 9-4 in English and maths and a relevant Level 2 qualification.
Level 2
Level 3
No formal entry requirements.
Progression : Progress to our HNC Art & Design.
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FULL-TIME VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL COURSES
Course
Entry Requirements
Engineering Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Certificate PEO Welding
No formal entry requirements.
Diploma Engineering Operations
2 GCSEs at grade 4 or above in English Language, Maths and Science or a relevant Level 1 qualification.
Diploma PEO Welding
GCSEs grade 4 in English Language and Maths or a relevant Level 1 qualification.
Extended Diploma Business
4 GCSEs at grade 5 or above.
Progression : Progress to HND Engineering
Equine Level 1
Diploma Land-based Studies (Equine)
An interest in starting a career in the equine industry
Level 3
Extended Certificate Horse Care
3 GCSEs at grade 3 or above including Maths and/or English Language. A basic standard of riding, including walk, trot and canter is required for those students selecting the riding module.
Level 3
Advanced Technical Extended Diploma Equine Management (720)
(360) 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, one of which should be Maths or English Language. (540) 6 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above including Maths, English Language and preferably Science. Or a full 360/540 Level 3 Year 1 qualification to start the second year of study.
Progression : Progress to BSc (Hons) Equine Training and Coaching (Top Up) or FdSC Equine Management, Coaching & Training.
Esports Level 2
Diploma Esports
2 GCSEs at grade 3 or above.
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FULL-TIME VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL COURSES
Course
Entry Requirements
Hair & Beauty Certificate Hair & Beauty Sector Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Award Introduction to the Hair & Beauty Sector
No formal entry requirements
Certificate Beauty Therapy Services
3 GCSEs at grade 3 or above.
Certificate Hairdressing
GCSEsatatgrade grade3 4 and Maths. 42GCSEs orincluding above or aEnglish relevantLanguage Level 1 qualification.
Diploma Beauty Therapy
32GCSEs including English Language, Maths Science, or a releGCSEsatatgrade grade4 4 including English Language andand preferably Maths. vant Level 1 qualification.
Diploma Hairdressing
Relevant Level 2 qualification or equivalent industry experience.
Diploma Beauty Therapy Techniques
A relevant Level 2 Beauty qualification or equivalent.
Progression : Progress to our HNC General Engineering, HNC Electrical and Electronic Engineering or HND General Engineering.
Health & Social Care Level 1
Certificate Health & Care
No formal entry requirements.
Horticulture & Floristry Level 2
Diploma Floristry
No formal entry requirements although suitability is likely to be based on GCSE grades.
Level 3
Advanced Technical Diploma Horticulture
4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English, maths and science or a suitable Level 2 qualification at Merit or above.
Military Academy and Uniformed & Public Services Level 2
Level 3
Diploma Entry to Uniformed Services
No formal entry requirements.
Certificate Entry to Uniformed Services
A relevant Level 2 qualification.
Diploma Entry to Uniformed Services
Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language or Maths, or a relevant Level 2 qualification.
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FULL-TIME VOCATIONAL & TECHNICAL COURSES
Course
Entry Requirements
Professional Cookery & Hospitality Level 1
Certificate Introduction to Culinary Skills
2 GCSEs at grade 1 or above.
Level 2
Certificate Culinary Skills
GCSE grade 4 in English Language and preferably GCSE Maths at Level 3.
Level 3
Diploma Professional Cookery
Level 2 Food Preparation and Cooking qualification, or two years relevant industry experience.
Sport & Exercise Science Level 2
Certificate Sport
2 GCSEs at grade 3.
Level 3
Extended Diploma Sport & Physical Activity
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language and Maths.
Progression : Progress to HNC Sport (Community Coaching for England)
Travel & Tourism Level 3
Extended Diploma Travel & Tourism
4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, or a relevant Level 2 qualification.
Veterinary Nursing Level 2
Certificate Veterinary Support (Animal Nursing Assistant)
4 GCSEs at grades 4-9 including English Language and Maths.
Level 3
Diploma Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal)
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language and Maths and employed/working in as an apprentice in a recognised training practice.
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T Levels Ashington Campus & Kirkley Hall Campus
T (Technical) Levels will give you the opportunity to experience working in your chosen industry while studying. They have been created with leading employers to give you the job specific skills and knowledge they are looking for. You will gain substantial industry experience during a 45-day work placement where you can put the skills you learn in the classroom into action.
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T Levels can lead to highly skilled employment, a higher apprenticeship or, as they accrue UCAS points, into university.
T LEVELS
Area
Course
Entry Requirements
T Levels Animal and Land-based
Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care
Computing & Digital
Digital Production, Design & Development
Construction & Building Services
Construction (Onsite)
Education & Childcare
Early Years Educator
Engineering
Maintenance, Installation and Repair
Health & Care
Adult Nursing
At least 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above including Maths. Health (Adult Nursing) also requires a satisfactory DBS clearance.
Progression : T Levels can lead to a Higher Apprenticeship, university or highly skilled employment. You will gain UCAS points and have substantial industry experience to help you progress.
You’ll gain valuable workplace experience with a minimum of 45 days on an industry placement. T Levels are the perfect route if you know what job you want to do, feel ready for the world of work and can commit to an intensive course and substantial industry placement to develop skills that employers are looking for.. Visit us at northumberland.ac.uk 25
Apprenticeships Ashington Campus & Kirkley Hall Campus
An apprenticeship can help you get real work experience, gain skills and knowledge and study towards a relevant qualification. You can have a previous qualification like a degree and still start an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, gain experience and get paid.
At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have the qualifications, skills, and knowledge you need to progress in your chosen career.
To become and apprentice, you must be 16 or over, not be in full-time education and live in England.
To find out more about our wide range of apprenticeships and vacancies, visit 26 School leavers’ guide
APPRENTICESHIPS
8 key facts you need to know: An apprenticeship is a real job. You will be paid a salary.* Apprenticeships last a minimum of 12 months and range from level 2 to level 7. Your training will be fully funded. Apprentices will receive paid off-the-job learning. Apprentices will spend most of their time on-the-job. There are thousands of apprenticeships in more than 170 industries, including Animal and Land-based, Business and Administration, Computing and IT, Early Years and Childcare, Engineering and Manufacturing, Sports Coaching and more! 98% of apprentices progressed to full-time employment, University or further study. *EPNE apprenticeship destination data, 2021-22
*What you will earn depends on the industry, location and type of apprenticeship you choose. If you’re aged 16 to 18 or in the first year of your apprenticeship, you’re entitled to the apprenticeship minimum hourly rate of £4.81 (£5.28 from April 2023).
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Pathways Our Pathways programme supports you to gain employment, progress in your chosen field or prepare for further study. You will also develop the confidence and skills required for successful independent living.
Why study with us You will explore different subject areas and develop important skills in health and safety, travel training, healthy living, money management, employability, teamwork, communication, literacy and numeracy. You could also take part in The Duke of Edinburgh Awards and trips and visits.
Our courses Entry Level 3 Pathways Level 1 Pathways
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PATHWAYS
If you’ve been unable to progress to your chosen study programme due to entry requirements or personal barriers, or if you’re unsure of what career pathway you want to take, we can help you to further develop your skills so you can progress.
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Foundation Learning Our Foundation Learning programme is for young people with special educational needs and disabilities. We can offer a bespoke programme, delivered by specialist staff in state-of-the-art facilities. We will make sure you achieve your goals and fulfil your own unique potential.
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KIRKLEY HALL CAMPUS
Why study with us You will be taught in real learning and working environments including our Zoo, Walled Gardens, Independence Hub, SEND Centre and Employability Hub. You will focus on the topics for living an independent life including travel training, healthy living, money management, employability, teamwork, communication, literacy and numeracy. You can specialise in vocational areas such as Animal Care, Catering and Hospitality and Horticulture.
Excellent facilities Our outstanding, specialist and inspirational SEND Centre creates a safe and positive environment to nurture your individual talents and skills and help you reach your full potential. You will be part of the wider college community which will support you to further develop your independence and social and life skills.
Our courses This programme includes six projects (Life Skills, Travel Training, Communication, Teamwork, Self-Management and Personal) designed to develop and improve independence. Foundation Learning Year 2 Vocational Pathways Students will continue to develop their independence along with English and Maths, but also explore progression opportunities through a carousel of areas including Year 3 Vocational Pathways Animal Care, Horticulture and Catering.
You can apply for a course by visiting one of our college events or completing an online application form Visit us at northumberland.ac.uk 31
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How to apply. Decide - Do your research and find the right course for you. If you are undecided, visit one of our open events where you can speak to our expert Information, Advice and Guidance teams or one of our experts on Live Chat.
Apply - It’s easy to apply for a course. You can apply online or in person at one of our open events.
Meet and greet - After you’ve applied, you will receive a conditional offer which will be subject to you achieving the entry requirements of your course. When you receive your offer, please accept this as soon as possible. You may also need to complete an audition, trial or assessment depending on the course you’ve applied for. Keep in touch - Don’t forget to let us know if you change any of your contact details. We will keep in touch and let you know about relevant updates and events, including our Experience Days and Welcome Events to help you prepare for your course before enrolling. You can also connect with us on social media to keep up to date with college life. GCSE Results Day -If you don’t get the results you need for your course or have changed your mind about the course you want to study, don’t worry. Just contact us and our expert careers advisers will help you decide on your next steps.
Enrol - You will enrol over the summer and receive all your start of term information. We will also arrange any support that you will need during your time with us.
Start of term - Now this is where the excitement really happens. We can’t wait for you to start your course so we can help you to achieve your dreams.
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Information for parents Choosing the right college and course can be confusing for young people and their parents, guardians, and carers. The most important thing you can do to help your child is to make sure you are fully informed, listen to your child, be open minded and encourage them to explore all the options available to them. Attending college open events with your child is a great way to find out all about future study and career options.
Why choose Northumberland College? At Northumberland College we will give your child an outstanding education and experience through our careers-focused curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities. We have one of the widest range of courses in the region, including T Levels, vocational courses, and apprenticeships.
We offer so much more than a qualification. Our staff are friendly, approachable and make a positive difference to the lives of our students – motivating, challenging, and supporting them throughout their time with us. They will get involved in enrichment opportunities such as competitions, talks with industry experts, volunteering, trips and visits, networking, and careers events, to give them a full wraparound experience on campus. We also work in partnership with employers and universities to provide students with valuable experiences to give them the edge in whatever career path they wish to take. 34 School leavers’ guide
Financial Support You may be eligible for financial assistance such as help with your child’s transport costs, kit costs, childcare, free meals and bursaries. If they live more than 5 miles from their campus of study and your household income is less than £40,000, they may be eligible for our student transport scheme and could be offered a travel pass or monthly travel allowance, depending on your circumstances.
Support and wellbeing The wellbeing of our students is our main priority. We are committed to offering a space where they will feel safe, inspired, valued, and respected. For any students with specific learning needs, our Inclusive Support Team will be with them every step of the way. There is always advice and support available if they, or you, need it. You want the very best for your child, and so do we.
GCSE grades explained. GCSE qualifications are now award on a grade scale of 9 (highest) to 1 (lowest). New GCSE grading structure
Entry Requirements
9
A*
8
A
7
B
6
B
5
C
4 3
D
2
E
1
F G
U
U
For more information on finance, funding and student support visit our website
Visit us at northumberland.ac.uk 35
Keep in touch. Find out all our latest news and keep up to date with the exciting activities happening at Northumberland College by getting social: @northumberlandcollege @northumberlandcollege @northlandcoll
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Contact us Info@northumberland.ac.uk 0300 770 8000 www.Northumberland.ac.uk
Carbon footprint We are always conscious of our impact on the environment and actively work to reduce our carbon footprint. When you no longer need this guide, please recycle it, reuse it or pass it on to someone who you think would find it useful. You could even repurpose it as an upcycled paper wreath, a coaster or placemat or a creative piece of wall art. This guide is printed on Forest Stewardship Council ® certified paper and is fully recyclable. The FSC® logo identifies products which contain wood from responsible sources certified in accordance with the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council ®. Disclaimer Published March 2023. Information accurate at time of print (subject to change). Please email info@northumberland.ac.uk if you require this guide in an alternative format.
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Education Partnership North East #YourFutureYourWay | northumberland.ac.uk