s se ur co ed w d ne a d
g n i v i G e c a p s you ow to gr school leavers guide 2019:20
2 6 10
4 8
Your Route to Employment
A Levels Vs Vocational diplomas
Apprenticeships
Employability Programmes
STUDY PROGRAMMES get the experience…
your route to college
14 18
merristwoodcourses.info
Why Choose Merrist Wood College
Build your CV new courses & subject areas
12 16
20
s ' t a h W ? t x e N W
ith your GCSEs fast approaching, you have probably been told to start thinking about what you’re going to do next. For many this can be very daunting, but don’t panic! You still have time and there are a lot of options available to you. You need to think about where you are now and where you would like to be in the future. Consider your interests, what you enjoy and what you’re good at. Think about how you like to learn too, as being in college for most of the week might not be for you. If you enjoy studying, then carrying on to A Levels may be the right choice for you. However, you may want to try something completely different and take a vocational programme such as a Diploma, which allows you to learn more practical, work-based
skills. Alternatively, you may want to complete an Apprenticeship which will allow you to earn whilst you learn. Whatever your decision, it could impact hugely on your future career so it is important to do some research. For many, choosing the right college to attend and qualification to study can be a very hard decision. Luckily, there are plenty of people to help you make your decision, along with prospectuses and guides (like this one), which are handy tools for explaining the options available to you. In this guide we will explain each of your options in greater detail…
merristwoodcourses.info
1
Your Route to Employment W
ith a wide range of qualifications to choose from, it’s important that you choose one to suit your interests, learning style and future career plan. Further education colleges typically offer qualifications at Levels 1 to 3, and some even offer qualifications at Entry Level (the stage before GCSEs). The level you will begin studying at depends on your GCSE grades and experience you have, so remember to check the individual entry requirements for the qualifications you’re interested in. An important thing to remember is that if you do not achieve a good GCSE pass grade - grade 4 or above in Maths or English by the time you finish secondary school, you must
2
continue to study these subjects until you get these qualifications. The chart opposite will give you an idea of the level you will be able to study at, and the types of qualification available to you, but remember some qualifications may also require:
yy A reference from your school, including information about your attendance
yy A skills assessment relevant to
the subject area, for example a practical test
yy A literacy and numeracy assessment
Levels Explained Do you expect to achieve‌
No formal qualifications after leaving school?
YES
entry level
you could move on to...
Entry Level qualification with Maths and/or English Functional Skills or GCSEs
Other Entry Level or Level 1 qualification
LEVEL 1
you could move on to...
Level 1 qualification with Maths and/or English Functional Skills or GCSEs
Level 2 qualification or Intermediate Level Apprenticeship
LEVEL 2
you could move on to...
Level 2 qualification or Intermediate Level Apprenticeship with Maths and/or English Functional Skills or GCSEs
A Levels, Level 3 qualification or an Advanced Level Apprenticeship
LEVEL 3
you could move on to...
Level 3 qualification, A Levels or an Apprenticeship
HNC or HND, Foundation Degree, Degree or professional qualification at college or university
or
A range of GCSEs at grades 3-1, or equivalent?
YES
Two to four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including Maths and English, or equivalent?
YES
or A minimum of four/five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, or equivalent?
YES
Please note: this is a guide only as some qualifications may require specific entry criteria.
merristwoodcourses.info
...or employment
or
3
A Levels Vs Vocational diplomas T
he main difference between A Levels and Vocational Diplomas is that A Levels are assessed through examinations with some coursework modules, whilst Vocational Diplomas are coursework based with some practical assessments or work experience. A Levels A Levels are a two year programme of study at Level 3, and can lead you on to studying at university or employment. If you are planning on going to university you will probably need three or four A Levels, sometimes in specific subjects. The main benefit of studying A Levels is that you can spread your options over a range of subjects, according to your interests. You can study A Levels at Farnham Sixth Form College.
ďƒ¨ 4
merristwoodcourses.info
Vocational Certificates & Diplomas Vocational qualifications offer a more practical approach to learning, without missing any of the important theory on the subject you’re studying. You will learn by doing a mixture of classroom based theory and ‘real world’ practical projects. These qualifications are ideal if you prefer practical learning, and to be assessed mainly by coursework. Level 3 Diplomas are equivalent to A Levels, but most colleges will offer vocational qualifications from Entry Level or Level 1.
yy Level 1 - If school doesn’t work out
for you and you need extra support, qualifications at this level will help you to move on to higher levels of study.
yy Level 2 - These one year
programmes are designed to provide specialist work-related knowledge in a range of subjects. They provide a broad-based introduction to enable you to start work or move on to higher levels of study.
yy Level 3 - These are two year
programmes that combine practical and academic skills, and are designed to cover specific areas of employment. You can use a Level 3 Diploma to progress on to university.
“My course has definitely prepared me for the future, as it has taught me the skills necessary to become a Ranger.”
Sebastian
Countryside Management Level 3
merristwoodcourses.info
5
Apprenticeships A
n Apprenticeship is a great option if you don’t want to stay in formal education, as they offer a hands-on approach to learning and a direct route to employment. You will work for an employer and earn a salary, whilst gaining a recognised qualification. You will also develop valuable workplace skills and experience, which employers look for. Apprenticeships are available at Intermediate (Level 2), Advanced (Level 3) and Higher Level (Degree Level), and will lead you directly into employment. They last for a minimum of a year, but many last two or more years. Most of your learning will happen at work, but some require you to spend one to two days in college learning extra skills such as Maths, English and IT.
6
merristwoodcourses.info
“I am currently completing my Apprenticeship at Cranleigh School with the Grounds Staff Team. I’d like to work at a football ground in the future, and this Apprenticeship is teaching me the knowledge and skills to do so.”
Owen -
Sports Turf Intermediate Apprenticeship
Key its f e n Be yy Earn while you learn - you will be employed and earn a salary.
yy Get out of the classroom - training takes place in the workplace and offers hands-on learning.
yy Get paid holiday - you will get at least 20 days of paid holiday per year, plus Bank Holidays.
yy Develop effective relationships -
working for a real business will give you great skills and experience in dealing with customers.
yy Go on to Higher Education - an
Advanced Level Apprenticeship is accepted by many universities, or you could continue on to a Higher Level Apprenticeship.
yy Develop employability skills - you will work alongside experienced staff and develop the skills employers are looking for, so it looks great on your CV!
yy Receive support and guidance -
you will be supported by your employer and college, who will monitor your progress throughout your Apprenticeship.
yy Gain a recognised and relevant
qualification - you will work towards a nationally recognised qualification that is valid for any employer.
merristwoodcourses.info
7
Employability Programmes A
nother option could be to study an Employability Programme, which are unique to Merrist Wood College and available from Level 1 to Level 3. These one year programmes are specifically designed if you prefer practical learning and have a clear idea that employment is your aim within the near future, rather than higher levels of education. They combine both personal development and vocational projects to give you the best possible chance of progressing on to employment or higher levels of study, having built confidence in a more supportive environment first. You will benefit from the smaller groups that these programmes offer.
8
merristwoodcourses.info
ďƒ¨
You will be given the opportunity to choose a pathway, such as Animal Management or Horticulture, and work experience will be undertaken on the College estate under the supervision of vocational experts in your chosen pathway. This unique opportunity to develop a portfolio of hands-on experience and a ‘project’ based CV is unique to Merrist Wood College. Further external work experience is encouraged as a stepping stone to employment.
Your development yy Employability and Personal
Development Level 1 Diploma This programme will help you explore your interests, develop life and study skills, vocational experience and employability skills, whilst progressing both Maths and English.
yy Step 2 Bridging Programme -
If you feel you are not ready to move on to a full Level 2 programme and bigger group sizes, this programme will help you develop study skills through vocational studies and projects, whilst progressing both Maths and English.
yy Employability Level 3 Diploma -
This programme will help you build a portfolio of employability skills and practical experience, and develop confidence to seek employment or training with work, such as an Apprenticeship.
“This course is helping me gain more experience and knowledge about working with animals, such as regular routine and how to correctly handle the animals.�
Matthew
Employability and Personal Development Level 1 Diploma
Full-time Study Programmes R
egardless of the route you choose to take, your college will enrol you on to a study programme which is designed to help you gain important transferable skills and knowledge for your future. Study programmes are made up of the following elements: Main Qualification The qualification you choose to study will form the majority of your study programme, so it’s important you make the right choice. Maths & English Maths and English are essential life skills. If you do not achieve a good GCSE pass grade – grade 4 or above - in Maths or English by the time you finish secondary school, you must continue to study these subjects until you get these qualifications. Depending on the grade you achieved, you may be able to re-take these GCSEs, or Functional Skills may be more appropriate. Employability Skills Employers often look for a number of important skills when recruiting, not just at your qualifications. Study programmes will help you to develop these skills and build confidence in the workplace, making you a stronger candidate when applying for jobs.
Work experience gives you the opportunity to develop and apply skills in a real working environment, and will help you make future career choices. Other activities, such as careers fairs, employer presentations and workshops, will all complement the employability skills you develop whilst completing your chosen qualification. Personal Development Whilst at college you will take part in tutorial sessions, as well as a number of enrichment activities and events to develop your skills and improve your CV. Careers Advisors can help you search and apply for jobs, write your CV and prepare for job interviews. Your personal tutor will support your academic, professional and personal skills during weekly group tutorials, and additional support will be available should you need information or advice about financial, social or well-being difficulties.
“The course has developed me as a person. I have grown in confidence, developed teamwork skills and made some amazing friends. Coming to Merrist Wood College was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!�
Katherine
Public services Level 3
merristwoodcourses.info
11
Why Choose Merrist Wood College I
f you love being outside and are keen to pursue an active career outdoors, then Merrist Wood College is for you! As the only agricultural college in Surrey, we can offer you a unique opportunity that you won’t get from any other college in the area. Located just three miles from Guildford town centre, our multi-award winning college specialises in landbased Diplomas and Apprenticeships, and has a national and international reputation for providing unrivalled education. All of our subjects are taught by industry expert tutors in our exciting outdoor classroom, which is set in 400-acres of woodlands, wetland and grasslands. Our tutors are passionate about their subjects and will work hard to tap into your potential to get the very best out of you, whilst making sure you enjoy what you’re learning. We can guarantee you won’t find facilities like ours at any other college in Surrey!
Subject areas include:
yy Agriculture yy Animal Management and Dog Grooming
yy Arboriculture & Forestry yy Employability yy Equine yy Floristry yy Horticulture yy Landscaping yy Public Services yy Sport Studies
(including Health & Fitness) yy Football yy Golf yy Sports Turf yy Wildlife & Conservation
“I completed my work experience at Rays Florists and was offered a parttime job, so I now work there three days a week.”
Monet
Floristry Level 3 12
merristwoodcourses.info
400 ACRE
Newly refurbished gym & outdoor
sports facilities
ESTATE
Wide range of Dedicated machinery including tractors, quad landscape
100
bikes, mowers, workshops, SINGLE STUDY
BEDROOMS
sites & chippers and garden paving areas chainsaws
RATED OUTSTANDING BY OFSTED
STABLING FOR UP TO
40
DESERT BIOME TROPICAL BIOME NOCTURNAL ROOM
50 COURSES
DELIVERING
HORSES
LARGE INDOOR
ARBORICULTURE
EQUINE ARENA & OUTDOOR FLOODLIT
years
WARM UP ARENA
ANIMAL
MANAGEMENT
18 hole golf course adjoining the estate
CENTRE HOUSING
over
1000 ANIMALS!
FULLY FUNCTIONING FARM WITH RARE BREED ANIMALS
ANNUAL PASSING OUT PARADE HELD FOR OUR PUBLIC SERVICES STUDENTS
OVER 50 MEDALS WON
AT RHS CHELSEA
50
AND HAMPTON COURT
FLOWER SHOWS
GLASSHOUSES AND NURSERIES WITH
Specially
OF PLANT AND
Floristry
A WIDE RANGE
TREE SPECIES
designed
studios
over
50 for school leavers apprenticeships & diplomas
get the experience… A
t Merrist Wood College we are focused on ensuring our students leave us with the skills, knowledge and experience that employers are looking for, which will put you a step ahead of others when applying for a job. Work Experience Last year our students completed work experience with:
yy RSPCA yy Battersea Dogs’ and Cats’ Home yy Chessington World of Adventures yy Birdworld yy Surrey Police yy Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst yy London Wildlife Trust yy National Trust yy Longacres yy The Outdoor Room yy Guildford Borough Council yy Places for People Leisure ...and more!
14
“My course at Merrist Wood College helped me secure a job at Chessington Zoo as a Seasonal Hoofstock Keeper. In my role I look after a variety of species including giraffe, white rhino and Grevy's zebra.”
James
Animal Management Level 3
97%
ies hat the activit t lt fe s t n e d u t of s on placement they undertookwell to gain prepared them the industry. employment ine Group - Work Experience olleg Guildford C y 2017/18 dback Surve ee F Student
“I did work experience at Wentworth for the BMW Championship, where I got to meet some great players.”
Daniel
Sport (Golf) Level 3
“My work experience has given me the confidence to try new things, and my course has given me the knowledge to talk to clients confidently and educate others about arboriculture.”
Georgi
Arboriculture LEVEL 3 merristwoodcourses.info
15
Build youR CV! W
hilst studying at Merrist Wood College you will benefit from guidance, support and experiences to help you make informed decisions about your future career… Careers Support Our Careers, Advice and Guidance Team can offer you one-to-one support to meet your needs, including:
yy Deciding which career route is right for you
yy Writing your CV and Personal Statement
yy Preparing for interviews yy Finding and applying for job vacancies
yy Choosing and applying for university
yy Choosing and applying for an Apprenticeship
To contact our impartial Careers, Advice and Guidance Team, Tel: 01483 88 40 40 or Email: mwinfo@guildford.ac.uk
16
merristwoodcourses.info
“With the help of the College, I am now a trained Special Constable with the Metropolitan Police. When I applied to join the Metropolitan Police the tutors were really supportive. They used their experiences to help explain some of the areas, such as Law, in greater detail.”
Daniel
Public Services Level 3
Trips & Visits Our students regularly go on trips and visits as part of their study programme, to find out more about the many career options available to them. Some of last year’s trips and visits included:
yy Animal Management students
visited a number of zoos, farms, animal parks and centres around the UK, including Chessington World of Adventures.
yy Arboriculture students visited local
forests, parks, commons and copses.
yy Equine students visited a number of racecourses, horse trials and shows, including the Badminton Horse Trials and the Olympia Horse Show.
yy Golf students visited
a number of local golf clubs.
yy Football students competed in
the ECFA South East League (Men’s Category 2) and finished top of the leaderboard, and embarked on a European football tour to the Netherlands.
yy Sports Turf students visited
a local manufacturer and supplier of top-grade sports turf dressings.
yy Wildlife and Conservation
students visited a number of local nature reserves.
yy Floristry students took a trip to Covent Garden Market.
yy Horticulture students took a trip to the RHS Wisley.
yy Floristry, Horticulture and
Landscaping students took part in competitions at RHS Hampton Court Flower Show and RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
yy Public Services students completed a number of expeditions at national parks around the country.
merristwoodcourses.info
17
Your to e t u o R lege Col Your Course...
Choose
Online...
Apply
Your Interview...
Attend
Accept
There are a wide range of courses available at all levels, so make sure you research your options! Look through prospectuses and guides (like this one), visit college websites and go along to Open Events - dates for our Course Information Events can be found on the back of this guide.
Some courses fill up fast so make sure you get your application in early, and remember, you can apply for more than one college or course!
You will be invited in for an interview, which will allow you to discuss your course choices and plans for the future. This is also your opportunity to discuss support options, if necessary. Our interview process normally lasts about 30 minutes.
If your interview is successful, you will be offered a place by the college. If you don’t get offered a place for your first choice course, the college should be able to discuss other options with you. We aim to offer you a place within two weeks.
You can apply online for Merrist Wood College at www. merristwoodcourses. info.
If you’re still not sure, you could discuss your options with a Careers Advisor. We have impartial Careers Advisors who can give you advice on choosing a suitable course Tel: 01483 88 40 40 or Email: mwinfo@ guildford.ac.uk.
18
merristwoodcourses.info
Don’t forget to take along your qualification certificates (if you have them) and any other documents or portfolios of your work.
Your Place...
Go to
enrol at
Get Your
You may be invited to attend a taster event, where you will meet other students and tutors, and get a real taste for your course and college life.
You will be sent information during the summer holidays about how to enrol. This should include a date and time for your enrolment session and details about what to bring with you.
You will need to bring your exam results with you when you enrol. If your results are better than you expected, or you haven’t done as well as you hoped, your college will be able to help you find a more suitable course.
a Taster Event...
the college...
Results...
Start
College! During your first week there will be lots of activities to help you settle in and make new friends. You will begin with an induction, which will give you an opportunity to find out more about your course and college life.
“After I have finished my course I would like to complete some short courses in Garden Design and Business, which will help me to set up my own business in the future.”
Ashley
Landscape Level 3 Winner of BALI Chalk Fund’s Top Student of the Year Award 2018
merristwoodcourses.info
19
NEW Courses for September 2019 Agriculture
Agriculture
Level 2 Extended Certificate
Level 3 90 Credit Diploma
Duration:
Duration:
1 YEAR
This programme is aimed at those interested in plant and animal production, and the management of environments. You will learn the basics of machinery operations, estate management, farm animal production and conservation.
1 YEAR
This programme is designed to teach you the key knowledge and practical skills required to progress further into the agricultural sector of your choice. Course content includes:
Course content includes:
▶ Animal anatomy and physiology
▶ Introduction to land-based machinery operations
▶ Principles of soil science
▶ Principles of plant science
▶ Providing estate maintenance
▶ Estate skills
▶ Conservation and improvement of British habitats
▶ Land-based machinery operations
▶ Work related experience in the land-based Industries Entry requirements: Between two and four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including Maths and English, or a Level 1 qualification at Merit or above.
20 merristwoodcourses.info
▶ Agricultural livestock production ▶ Farm livestock husbandry Entry requirements: At least four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, or a relevant Level 2 qualification at Merit or above.
ed ! ish re rb ent e fu g C y r min wl oo Ne g G r Do
Dog Grooming Level 3 Diploma Duration:
1 YEAR
This programme combines modules from Animal Management and Dog Grooming to help you pursue a career in the dog grooming industry. You will develop a range of skills, including: bathing and cleaning dogs, controlling and restraining animals, and handling payments from clients. Course content includes: ▶ Animal behaviour ▶ Animal health and disease ▶ Practical animal husbandry ▶ Animal welfare and ethics ▶ Work experience Entry requirements: At least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, or Level 2 Animal Care at Merit or above. You must also have completed some work experience in a dog grooming establishment.
merristwoodcourses.info
21
NEW Courses for September 2019 Fitness and Exercise Level 2 Diploma Duration:
1 YEAR
Develop the knowledge and skills required to work in a variety of customer-facing roles within the active leisure industry, including personal training and leisure operations. Course content includes: ▶ Principles of anatomy, physiology and fitness ▶ Planning and instructing gym-based exercise ▶ Principles of customer care ▶ Working in active leisure facilities ▶ Health and safety in the workplace ▶ Managing personal and professional development Entry requirements: Between two and four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including Maths and English, or successful completion of a relevant Level 1 qualification at Merit or above.*
22 merristwoodcourses.info
*Plus, some experience of gym-based exercises, including free weights, is highly recommended. This course requires physical exertion and participation is essential, so a degree of physical fitness is necessary.
th ! ng ite re u St ng S ew oni d n iti an nd Br d Co an
Health and Fitness Level 3 Diploma Duration:
1 YEAR
Broaden your knowledge, skills and abilities from the Level 2 Diploma to enhance your career prospects and increase your earning potential. Course content includes: ▶ Anatomy and physiology for exercise and health
▶ Understanding medical conditions for exercise referral
▶ Principles of exercise, fitness and health
▶ Professional practice for exercise referral instructors
▶ Supporting clients who take part in exercise and physical activity
▶ Planning and instructing circuit training sessions
▶ Health, safety and welfare in a fitness environment
Entry requirements:
▶ Planning and instructing gym-based exercise ▶ Programming and delivering personal training sessions
At least four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, or a Level 2 Diploma at Merit or above.*
▶ Applying the principles of nutrition to a physical activity programme ▶ Planning and instructing exercise referral programmes for patients
merristwoodcourses.info 23
Merrist Wood College offers qualifications in… Subject Area
Level 1
Agriculture Animal Management
✓
Arboriculture & Forestry
Level 2
Level 3
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Intermediate Apprenticeship
✓
✓
Dog Grooming Employability Programmes*
✓
✓
✓
Equine Management
✓
✓
✓
Floristry
✓
✓
✓
Horticulture
✓
✓
✓
✓
Landscaping
✓
✓
✓
Public Services
✓
✓
Sport, Coaching & Fitness
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
Golf Football
✓
✓
Sports Turf & Greenkeeping
✓
✓
✓
✓
Wildlife & Conservation
Advanced Apprenticeship
✓
✓
✓ *different pathways available
For a full list of qualifications and more information, please visit our website www.merristwoodcourses.info
n i p e e K h c u o T
www.merristwood.ac.uk mwinfo@guildford.ac.uk 01483 88 40 00 /OfficialMerristWood @merristwood @official_merrist_wood
Come to our Course Information Events

Thursday 21 March 2019, 5.30-8pm Wednesday 26 June 2019, 5.30-8pm
t ' n o D ! s s i M Merrist Wood College Holly Lane Worplesdon Guildford GU3 3PE 01483 88 40 00
merristwoodcourses.info