Parent's Frequently asked Questions
Q: What support will my son or daughter receive at College?
A: Every student has a Progress Tutor who keeps a check on attendance and progress. Our specialist tutors and advisors can also help with any additional requirements for support or advice.
Q: What are the college hours?
A: Every course has a different timetable, and all students will be given a copy. At times when there are no classes, students are free to leave the premises if they wish, though there are study facilities on site which they are encouraged to use.
Q: Should I contact the College if my son or daughter cannot get in?
A: Full attendance is essential for success; however there may be times when unavoidable circumstances such as sudden illness prevent a student from coming to College. In these cases we ask students (or their parents) to keep us informed by phoning the Absence Hotline on 01509 618252 between 8.30 and 9.15 am. Because attendance is so important, and because we cannot guarantee that students can catch up after a long period of absence, we ask that parents do not arrange family trips during term time.
Q: Is it all right for students to have part-time jobs?
A: We feel that up to 8 or 9 hours per week paid work is fine for most students, and can help them to develop time management skills and become more financially independent; however national research has shown that 10 hours or more per week can affect achievement adversely.
Q: How will I know how my son or daughter is getting on?
A: He or she will have at least one formal report during the year and a Parents\' Evening or similar event will also be organised. If you have any concerns, please contact the Progress Tutor of your son or daughter. Under the Data Protection Act, we must ask students for permission to contact parents. Very occasionally, a student will refuse, and when this happens we must respect this decision.
Q: Will homework be set?
A: All students will have work to complete in their own time, some of which may contribute to the final grade. Some take this home, and others choose to work at College.
Q: How will I know if there are any course trips and what is involved?
A: If your son or daughter is under 18 years of age, you will be sent a Parental Consent Form to sign before each trip, giving details of activities, and asking for your consent.
Q: Are there any tuition fees?
A: There are no tuition fees for students aged under-19 attending Further Education courses, but some courses will make a charge for materials and specialist equipment, or for trips and visits. For this age group examination fees are normally paid by the College, except for re-sits.
