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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