If they feel shy about approaching people, having some pre-prepared questions can help.
Encourage them to talk to current students too. Even if the students aren’ t doing the course your child is interested in, they can offer invaluable insights about school or college life and how it differs from pre-16 education.
TASTER SESSIONS Some schools / colleges offer taster sessions or workshops, often lasting for one or two hours, which give potential students the chance to experience a practical learning session, check out the facilities and talk to staff in more depth. These are usually free but places are likely to be limited. If your child is interested it’ s worth booking a place as soon as possible.
AFTERWARDS Have a chat with your child about what they thought of the school / college and the options on offer. If they have made a decision, they should apply straight away.
If they’ re still not sure what to do, they can contact the college or sixth form direct to ask more questions, talk to a careers adviser or do some more research online.
GOOD TO KNOW
Your child can apply to more than one school or college and make a final decision when they get their GCSE results. But it’ s a good idea to apply and receive offers as early as possible during Year 11 so they know what their options are.
Sixth forms and college application deadlines vary. They are likely to fall somewhere between December and February for the next September intake, but it’ s important to check with individual schools / colleges and make a note of the deadlines so that your child can apply in good time. Some sixth forms and colleges may invite prospective students for an interview – for more advice and information about interviews see page 56.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS POST-16
Young people from low-income families or from some defined‘ vulnerable groups’ may be eligible for additional financial support while they are studying.
16 – 19 BURSARY FUND
This is a government fund which:
• Pays a bursary of up to £ 1,200 a year to support young people who are in one of the defined vulnerable groups, for example care leavers and those receiving certain benefits such as Income Support or Disability Living Allowance, to enable them to take part in education.
• Allows colleges to pay discretionary awards to young people they assess as needing financial help to stay
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