#LongRoadLife - February 2023

#LongRoadLife

SUPPORTING YOU - FROM APPLICANT TO STUDENT

Hello, from Long Road!

This months applicant newsletter is focused on supporting youas an applicant and as a student!

We'll be outlining everything you need to know about our Virtual Advice and Guidance Meetings; the equipment you need, what to expect and lots of hints and tips on how to best prepare for your meeting with us. We're also looking at the support we can offer you once you join us as a student!

We hope you enjoy the February edition of #LongRoadLife.

Talk to you soon!

Long Road

ADMISSIONS UPDATE

PREPARING FOR YOUR ADVICE & GUIDANCE

MEETING

MEET SCHOLAR

STUDENTS EMMA & ELLA

STUDENT SUPPORT: PROGRESS COACHES

ENGLISH FILM STUDIES

MEDIA STUDIES

LONG ROAD SIXTH FORM COLLEGE APPLICANT NEWSLETTER

WE'RE HERE TO HELP

Our friendly Admissions Team are here to support and guide you through every stage of your Long Road application.

If you have any questions, please get in touch!

Julianna Sosnowska Director of Admissions

Lydia Cottage Admissions Officer

ADMISSIONS TEAM UPDATE

I HAVE A FEBRUARY ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING

Thank you to everyone who has booked their Virtual Advice and Guidance meeting for the 10th or 11th February!

We are really looking forward to meeting you and your Parent/Carers. To ensure that we can have a meaningful conversation about your individual goals and ambitions we require all meetings to take place with cameras and microphones on.

All of our staff are equally highly trained and experienced team members able to discuss your post-16 options in detail.

On the day, it is important to log on to the system at least 15 minutes in advance of your meeting to make sure that you are ready when it begins

We understand that this stage can be thrilling and a little daunting; so we hope that the advice in this newsletter will support you in preparing for your meeting.

I WAS UNABLE TO BOOK A FEBRUARY MEETING

If you were unable to book a slot, please do not worry. We are holding additional Virtual Advice and Guidance Meetings on Monday 6 March.

We will send out more detailed communication, after this first round of meetings have taken place, directly to any applicants yet to have a meeting.

If you have any questions or worries please email us on admissions@longroad.ac.uk

Best wishes, Long Road Admissions Team

YOUR APPLICATION TIMELINE

Your application timeline will help you keep track of where you are in the admissions process and keep you informed of what happens next. Look for the arrow location to see where we are in the process!

OCTOBER 2022

Applications Open

JANUARY 2023

Applications Close. Applications made after the deadline may be placed on a waiting list

24 AUGUST 2023

GCSE Results Day

Good luck! We're keeping our fingers crossed for you

SPRING & SUMMER 2023

Virtual Guidance Meetings & Conditional Offer

(9 & 10 February and 6 March 2023)

Discuss your options with an experienced member of staff. You'll receive a formal offer via your MyLongRoad account shortly after your Virtual Guidance Meeting.

6 & 7 JULY 2023

Auditions, Welcome Days & Summer Work

Spend the day as a Long Road student; try out your subjects & get a taste of Long Road life. Summer work will be available online & must be completed for your first lesson at college. Auditions for Performing Arts subjects will also be held during Welcome Days

LATE AUGUST 2023

New Student Enrolment

Welcome to the Long Road family!

EARLY SEPTEMBER 2023

Start of Academic Year

2023/2024

Time to start your Long Road life!

YOU MAY BE ASKED QUESTIONS

SIMILAR TO:

Why have you chosen this course?

Do you have any career aims or future plans?

What are your hobbies and interests?

What are your subject strengths/likes and weaknesses/dislikes?

Are there any personal issues or difficulties that may affect your studies?

PREPARING FOR YOUR VIRTUAL ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING

Applying for Sixth Form College is some serious business, but there’s no need to be nervous By inviting you to an Advice & Guidance Meeting we can give you the best possible support on choosing your college, your courses and your future career paths!

The most important thing to remember is to just be yourself We aren’t trying to catch you out or ask you trick questions, we just want to get to know you. By getting to know you as an individual we can give you tailored advice about the college and the courses you want to study. It is also your chance to get to

know us – to get a feel of what Long Road is like and to ask any questions you might have about college life

Still a bit nervous? Don’t worry, that’s completely normal To help make the process as stress-free as possible we ’ ve put together this guide so you know what to expect and how to prepare

WHAT TO EXPECT – GETTING CAMERA READY!

Our friendly staff are really excited to meet you and want to engage with you as much as possible, so please make sure you turn your camera and microphone on.

PREPARING FOR YOUR VIRTUAL ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING

To give you a high-quality virtual experience we need to be able to see and hear you; this means we can have a meaningful discussion about your aims and ambitions.

For all meetings you must take some time to consider your behaviour, for example, you must dress appropriately so you feel comfortable, confident and professional Virtual meetings are no different

To make things easier for you we have listed some additional considerations for virtual meetings that you may wish to think about.

VIRTUAL ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING PREPARATION CHECK LIST:

Allow yourself plenty of time to set up your device. Make sure you have enough battery power, you have no scheduled updates and that your camera and microphone are working. Consider your background; you may wish to remove personal items or put away that pile of washing! Background noise can be extremely distracting for you and the interviewer Find a quiet, well-lit room to attend your meeting so the interviewer can see and hear you clearly

KEY INFO

All communication with Long Road will be via your My Long Road account.

Please ensure you check your emails (including spam folders) regularly.

Don't forget to update us with any contact detail changes in order to continue to receive important information regarding your application.

SETTING UP YOUR IT EQUIPMENTYOU WILL NEED:

A device with a microphone and speaker / headphones.

A compatible up-to-date web browser:

iPhone/iPad = Safari or Chrome. Note: there is a known issue joining video calls using iOS 14.2. Please upgrade any iOS 14.2 devices to iOS 14.3, or use a different device

Android = Chrome or Firefox

Windows = Chrome, Firefox or Microsoft Edge

Mac = Safari, Chrome or Firefox

Linux = Chrome or Firefox

PREPARING FOR YOUR VIRTUAL ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING?

Our Advice & Guidance Meetings are informal discussions, lasting 25 minutes, between you and a member of our experienced staff; parents/carers are encouraged to attend with you if possible.

You may be asked questions similar to:

Why have you chosen this course?

Do you have any career aims or future plans?

What are your hobbies and interests?

What are your subject strengths/likes and weaknesses/dislikes?

Are there any personal issues or difficulties that may affect your studies?

You may be given information on:

Entry requirements for your chosen courses

Information on your chosen courses

College expectations of behaviour and attendance

Our student support service

Our student enrichment activities

The Long Road Scholars’ Award.

PREPARING FOR YOUR VIRTUAL ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING?

Your interviewer will update your MyLongRoad account with your chosen courses and conditional offer. You will be sent an email about an update to your MyLongRoad account; this update will detail your conditional offer. Once you have received this email you need to log into MyLongRoad to accept the offer

Remember you can accept and hold a number of offers from different post-16 providers until you receive your GCSE results in August.

During the summer term, information about Long Road, including your enrolment interview date/time, will be emailed to you

All communication with Long Road will be via your MyLongRoad account.

Please ensure you check your emails (including spam folders) regularly and update us with any contact detail changes in order to receive important information regarding your application.

SETTING UP YOUR IT EQUIPMENTWE RECOMMEND:

Using a smartphone for video calls. If you don't have a smartphone with a frontfacing camera, use of laptop or computer with a webcam

Using a headset (or earphones with a microphone) to reduce echo

EMMA

Secondary School:

Cromwell Community College

Year 1 Student

Studying:

English Lang & Lit A Level

History A Level

Sociology A Level

Progression Goals: Oxbridge / Russell Group

university then a career in Law

Click here to apply for the Long Road Scholars Award today!

MEET SCHOLAR STUDENT, EMMA

I chose to study at Long Road over elsewhere because the staff and students were so welcoming and positive The environment is very inclusive and open to debates and discussions and there were many places indoors and outdoors to hang out.

One of the key factors of Long Road which inspired me to join here was the beautiful green areas behind the college – whilst I haven’t had the best opportunity to use this very much yet due to wet weather, seeing animals like squirrels and birds and having such a large space of quiet filled with different colours and bridges was very calming and proved the atmosphere of the college really caters towards the welfare of the students

Similarly, the opportunities within sports inspired me – and usage of the gym for everybody, and I now am able to play Rugby for the first ever time for a girls team

My favourite thing about Long Road so far is the overall atmosphere, I love it – the genuine communal focus that the students and teachers hold and the willing to help, without putting extensive pressure on anybody

I think however that my overall favourite thing is the freedom that long road has – with different opportunities but little compulsory things, it encourages me to take advantage without being weighed down by pressure that I have to be there

YOU'LL RECEIVE:

Ongoing individual and personal support on how to achieve at college and get the most out of your time with us.

Help creating your own personal progression plan, with advice on careers, apprenticeships and university pathways.

STUDENT SUPPORT: PROGRESS COACHES

We know that moving from school to college is a big change: a new campus, new faces and a new level of independence. To make sure you feel at home you will be assigned a Progress Coach, a dedicated member of staff who will help and support you as you settle into Long Road life.

Working together with you and your family from the moment you join our Long Road community they will ensure a smooth transition to college life Your Progress Coach will be on hand to guide you, helping you to stay on target and reach your goals.

Working closely with you and your teachers they will help you to plan and achieve your next steps, supporting you as you aim high

and succeed in your academic and career goals

Ongoing individual support from your Progress Coach means they will continuously oversee your academic progress, updating you and your family on your achievements.

Using this information, you and your Progress Coach will work together to create your own learning plan so you can identify your strengths and clearly see what you need to achieve and monitor your own academic performance.

STUDENT SUPPORT: PROGRESS COACHES

Your Progress Coach will be your main point of contact throughout your time at college. You will attend group tutorials which will cover a range of different topics across the year; from helping you to settle into college to helping to prepare for your next steps and everything in between.

As well as tutorials, your Progress Coach will schedule regular 1-to-1 meetings to discuss your academic progress and wellbeing with you and put action plans in place to make sure you stay on the path to success. You can also book additional meetings with your Progress Coach, or drop in and see them, at any point during the college day if you feel you would benefit from talking to them.

For parents, your child's Progress Coach is also your key point of contact for the college. If you ever have any worries, questions or queries you can give them a call or an email to discuss this and arrange a meeting if necessary.

Although your child gains some extra independence above what they are used to at school, we still keep you regularly updated. You will receive weekly attendance reports from us and the Progress Coach will be in touch with you to let you know about any concerns we have, but also of any outstanding achievements - that's that part of the job we really enjoy!

YOU'LL RECEIVE:

Support

with time management and study techniques.

Guidance on building your own learning plan so you can see what you need to achieve and how to monitor your progress and performance.

Total students currently on course: 169

Current average class size: 19

Exam Board: EDUQAS

Assessment: 20% Coursework

80% Exam

ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE A LEVEL

Explore the myriad methods writers use to create meaning through this in-depth study of English Language and Literature You’ll examine a wide range of literary and non-literary texts, learning how to use precise terminology to analyse and compare works across genres and time

Lessons will be an engaging mix of discussion, debates, independent and group work You'll develop the skills to write in a variety of styles and genres; creating a portfolio of your own fiction and non-fiction writing.

There will be opportunities to attend a range of activities to support your learning, including trips to see plays in performance

NATASHA BOWEN

Long Road Class of 1997

Author

I chose to study at Long Road to meet new people and because of the range of courses. I enjoyed meeting a mixture of people from different backgrounds I think my favourite part was the Art centre and the canteen!

Long road opened me up to more More subjects to learn, more people to meet, and was an enjoyable and supportive path to university.

I am now an author I recently published my debut YA novel SKIN OF THE SEA which hit the New York Times bestseller list on its first week

ENGLISH LITERATURE A LEVEL

English Literature A Level is for anyone who loves to read; if you like to discuss novels, plays and poetry this is the course for you!

Throughout the course you will study eight texts across the three main literary genres: poetry, prose and drama All of your lessons will be varied and lively, with debate and discussion at their heart You will develop excellent essay writing skills, being able to evaluate different interpretations of texts, and put forward your own critical arguments

These skills are essential in many careers, such as Law, Advertising, Journalism and Teaching You will have opportunities to go on trips to the theatre, poetry readings and listen to guest speakers, as well as attending external workshops and lectures

ALEX BENTLEY

Long Road Class of 2020 University of Liverpool

Alex joined Long Road from Comberton Village College in 2018 and went on to achieve a fantastic set of results with A's in English Literature and History as well as an A* in Sociology!

Alex is now studying BA English Literature at the University of Liverpool

"

The best thing about studying at Long Road was the capacity given to study in your own unique way and not to be judged for that, but instead encouraged "

ENGLISH LITERATURE: KEY INFO

Total students currently on course: 104

Current average class size: 17

Exam Board: Edexcel

Assessment: 20% Coursework

80% Exam

FILM STUDIES A LEVEL

Film Studies A Level engages students with the study of contemporary and historical film, from both an analytical and practical approach, and the in-depth study of film products

Students will be introduced to the contexts and concepts of film making and how they are used to create meaning You will study 12 films including films from major film movements and production styles from the USA, UK, European and World Cinema

Film Studies not only enables you to understand how films both make meaning and reflect wider societal values but will also develop your own filmmaking skills and put theory into practise. You will enjoy this course if you love films and are interested in both the analysis and creation of cinema.

MARTIN ATTMORE

Long Road Class of 2020

BA Filmmaking, University of Sussex

I chose Long Road because their courses were simply better for me to go into the career I wanted. I enjoyed setting up Cinema Club and the Long Lens in my time there, as well as studying great subjects.

My courses gave me experience that I still come back to now, both in practical and theory sides of my work. I actually thank Long Road for helping me become who I am now by setting me on this path to becoming a better filmmaker.

A LEVEL

KEY INFO:

Total students currently on course: 109

Current average class size: 22

Exam Board: OCR

Assessment: 30% Coursework

70% Exam

MEDIA A LEVEL: KEY INFO

Total number of current students: 183

Current average class size: 20

Exam Board: EDUQAS

Assessment: 30% Coursework

70% Exam

MEDIA A LEVEL

In an ever-changing world, an ability to analyse the messages, values and ideologies inherent in media have become ever more important

Media Studies is, at its heart, the practice of ‘breaking down’ media products to work out exactly how they were made, why they were made, and for whom they were made. From how online and social media targets its audience, to how television shows construct compelling, challenging narratives, to controversial aspects such as how news media manipulates its audiences, you will fully engage with a range of issues and perspectives surrounding the media.

Ultimately, Media Studies is ideal for students who love engaging with media, and want to take their passion to the next level.

HARRISON TWINN Long Road Class of 2013 Station Sound Producer, BBC Radio 1 & 1 Xtra

As a teenager who didn't really know what to do as a career, Long Road helped to cement my passion for the media, which later set me on my path to my firstchoice university (Bournemouth University) and then into the highly-competitive radio industry.

I'm convinced that, had Long Road not exposed the world of media production to me as a job, I would not be in the fortunate position I find myself in today

Long Road was essentially the initial spark that set off an extraordinary chain reaction that became my career that's still on the up, and long may that continue with students past, present and future.

MEDIA APPLIED LEVEL 3

Have you ever sat through the film credits and wondered what all those jobs are? Applied Media will give you an insight and a chance to try out a few of those roles first hand!

The aim of Applied Media is to give you a hands-on chance to make media products, developing the skills that most interest you In all courses you will explore your own creativity and apply your ideas in different ways There are a mix of projects including individual and small group productions.

We have visiting speakers throughout the year and run trips to film festivals, visual effects festivals and cinemas; in previous years we have even taken students on trips to New York!

JACOB FOULDS

Long Road Class of 2014 Sound Designer, Rev Rooms Game Development

I was always interested in media and creative subjects so studying it felt refreshing as my secondary school didn't offer anything like this

My favourite thing about Long Road was the fact that the teachers treat you like adults and not children This prepared me for university

Long Road first opened my eyes to the fact that I can have a creative/media-based career and now I work in the video gaming industry as a sound designer. It's a dream come true really

LEVEL 3 KEY INFO:

Total students currently on course: 258

Current average class size: 18

Exam Board: Extended Certificate = OCR

Diploma & Extended Diploma = UAL

Assessment: Extended Certificate = 58% Coursework

42% Exam

Diploma & Extended Diploma = 100% Coursework

ELLA

Secondary School: St Mary's Year 1 Student

Studying:

English Literature A Level

Film Studies A Level

Media Studies A Level

Progression Goals: Film industryCinematography or Directing

Click here to apply for the Long Road Scholars Award today!

MEET SCHOLAR STUDENT, ELLA

I chose Long road because I felt like it was the best place for developing my interests. I felt like there were many like-minded people I felt like Long Road had the friendliest and best atmosphere which, for me, is the most important thing in order to feel comfortable to learn

The Scholars Award seemed like a great opportunity to learn leadership and also give back to the school community As well as this, it was great motivation for my GCSEs and to try to achieve the best grades possible and the money awarded with it has allowed me to expand my learning further - allowing me to go on trips, such as the film trip to pinewood studios where I was able to learn first hand about the film industry and how it works

By the end of the year I also hope to use this money to buy film equipment that I can use for my coursework and also in the future

Everyone here is sweet and has a genuine interest for their subjects. I didn’t move with any friends from my previous school and yet very quickly met likeminded and sweet people, which was definitely a large relief.

I've been able to feel much more independent yet still supported by the many different networks in the school which is extremely important for the transition to a level, and I can say that in my first term I have become very confident and adapted to independent learning which isn’t something I was as used to at GCSE