College to de-mystify the world of post-16 education for parents

To mark Adult Learners Week (12-18 May) this year, Northampton College will be offering an open invitation to all parents to come and hear what post-16 education and training is really all about.

The College knows from talking to parents that considerable confusion exists around the options for young people when they reach the age of sixteen. These choices will become more acute next year (2013/14) when the learning leaving age will increase to 17. By 2015/16, all young people will be obliged by law to remain in education or training until they are aged 18.

Most people understand the concept of staying on in the school Sixth Form to take A Levels and these qualifications are often billed as the ‘Gold standard’ in post-16 education. However, there are other, equally-valid ways to qualify for a place in Higher Education that complement the more traditional route.

With the advent of higher fees and student loans, many students are exploring alternative options to following HE programmes, or looking to combine their studies with work. There has been a lot of publicity about Apprenticeships recently, where students get paid by their employer to do a full-time job, but also spend time in college gaining accreditation for the skills they are learning.

The session will explain the role of Apprenticeships in providing opportunities for students to earn an income while they remain in education. It will also provide a broad overview of these practical courses, explain how these are studied and assessed, and where they can lead. In addition we will explore the options and reveal what Universities are really looking for.

Some parents are concerned that their son and daughter may not achieve the grades they need in their GCSEs to continue their education as they had planned. They often ask what happens if their son or daughter fails to achieve any qualifications at school – how do they start again and get back on track? Again the session will explore the opportunities on offer for those who need a new start.

In addition, some parents are unsure about how the College week is structured – is their son or daughter expected to attend college every day, and do classes take up all the time, or are there independent study opportunities?

Finally, this session will discuss life at College and some background on the social and enrichment opportunities, and the basics about how to get there, and what financial and personal support is available.

John Bexson, Northampton College’s Deputy Principal said; ‘For many people, awareness and knowledge of educational opportunities is based on their own experience – which may not extend beyond their school days.

‘Options and alternatives have changed considerably over the years and we feel it’s important to help parents understand what the experience of Further Education involves’.

Every parent is welcome to attend, regardless of their children’s age, or whether they have made an application to the College or not. This event offers a good opportunity to gain some background knowledge for the future – or help young people to make decisions this year. Attendees will be able to see inside the brand new, state of the art facilities at Booth Lane and join in a tour of the College building after the presentation.

The session will be taking place at our Booth Lane site on Thursday 28th June between 6pm – 7pm. To book your place please call Jo Daly on 01604 734327 or visit http://adultlearnersweek.eventbrite.co.uk/