School Leavers' Course Guide

DEFINE YOUR FUTURE

Disclaimer:

Information provided was correct at the time of publication. Dates, times and fees may be subject to change. City of Wolverhampton College maintains the right to not run or close any course which is not viable.

Large print versions of this publication are available upon request. Please contact marketing@wolvcoll.ac.uk

Your options

Are you completing your GCSEs or A Levels this year? Do you want to carry on studying but don’t want to stay on at school? Do you want an alternative to university?

If the answer is ‘yes’, City of Wolverhampton College can help you define your future with a wide range of qualifications and different study options to enable you to learn in a way that suits you best.

What’s the best study route for me?

A Levels

Is this you?

 I prefer exams to coursework and I’m good at revising

 I like learning about theories, ideas and facts

 I want to study three or four subjects

 Ideally my next step after college will be university

If you enjoy and perform well in exams and want to study a range of subjects before going to university, choosing A Levels at City of Wolverhampton College is a good route to your future career.

The college provides an alternative learning environment to school and you can study the subjects that interest you and the combination that best suits your plans for your future career. You’ll also have access to wvSixth – our own sixth form centre which is solely for A Level students.

Vocational courses

Is this you?

 I prefer coursework to exams

 I enjoy working on projects

 I really enjoy a specific subject and would like to learn that in more detail

 I have a career in mind

T Levels

Is this you?

 I want to carry on learning but want an alternative to A Levels, an apprenticeship or a vocational course

 I want to gain the skills and knowledge employers are looking for

 I want a mixture of classroom learning and on-the-job experience

 I want to gain experience of working in the industry I’m interested in

If you prefer to learn practically, City of Wolverhampton College offers a wide range of vocational courses designed to help you develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours you need to work in your chosen industry.

Vocational courses are work-related and mix practical and theoretical study - and with qualifications available from beginner to advanced university level, there’s something for everyone, whatever your interest or experience.

If you haven’t already achieved a grade C/4 at GCSE in maths and English, you’ll also work towards this as part of your course.

Work experience also makes up part of your course to enable you to develop employability skills and apply your learning to real working life.

T Levels are an alternative to A Levels, apprenticeships and other full-time courses and will give you a qualification equivalent to three A Levels.

T Levels focus on helping you to develop vocational skills and knowledge to prepare you to progress to employment, a higher level of study or an apprenticeship.

You will spend 80% of your learning time at college - developing the skills that employers in your chosen industry requireand spend the remaining 20% of your time on a work placement, giving you the opportunity to put your skills into practice in the workplace.

Apprenticeship

Is this you?

 I know what career I want

 I want to start earning money and learning new skills

‘on-the-job’

 I want to gain the skills and knowledge employers are looking for

 I want to gain real work experience to impress future employers

If you want to start earning a wage but also carry on learning, an apprenticeship will enable you to do both!

You will be employed by a company and work alongside experienced employees, contributing to the success of that business while you’re learning and working towards occupational standards set by employers –and, because you’ll be doing a real job, you’ll get paid too!

The college works with a host of businesses to help them find and train their next apprentice and has a constant supply of vacancies in a wide range of industries so can help you find an apprenticeship too.

But if you’re not quite ready for an apprenticeship, doing a traineeship first will enable you to improve your confidence, brush up your employability skills and progress to an apprenticeship, further training or employment.

See page 42 for the range of apprenticeships on offer and details of how to apply.

Higher education

Is this you?

 I want to carry on studying when I’ve finished Year 13

 I want to study at a higher level but don’t want to go to university

 I’m looking for a different route to gain a university-level qualification

 I want to save money on university course fees and accommodation costs

If you want to study for a university-level qualification without actually going to uni, doing a higher education (HE) course at college is the answer!

University-level qualifications are the next level up after A Levels, Level 3 vocational courses or advanced apprenticeships and are a great way of continuing learning - and with a wide range of qualifications and subjects to choose from there are plenty of opportunities to enable you to study at a higher level.

See page 45 for the range the range of HE courses on offer.

I don’t know what I want to do!

We know that making a decision on which subject to choose or which study route to take can sometimes be confusing, but there’s no need to worry as our careers guidance team is there to help.

They’ll take time to discuss your plans for the future and give you information on the best routes into your chosen career. And even if you don’t know what you want to do, they’ll be able to give you details of all the courses and qualifications on offer at college and make suggestions about different study options for you to explore.

What’s more, you don’t have to wait until you’re a City of Wolverhampton College student to benefit from their advice – you can book an appointment to see them at any time.

 careersguidance@wolvcoll.ac.uk or  01902 317689

1 2 3 4 5

Becoming a student at City

When you’ve decided on the subject and study route you want to take, you’re just five steps away from becoming a student:

Apply

Apply online anytime at www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/apply or visit one of our open events, held throughout the year – check out the dates and book your place at www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/events

Interview

When we receive your application we’ll invite you to an interview with an admissions tutor. This an opportunity for you to talk to you about your existing knowledge, skills and experience, as well as your plans for your future career, so that the tutor can check that the course, level and mode of study you’ve applied for is the best option for you.

Offer

During the interview the admissions tutor will look at your exam grades (or predicted grades) to check that you meet the entry requirements of your chosen course. If so, you will receive either an unconditional offer (which means that your place isn’t dependent on your grades) or a conditional offer, subject to you meeting the entry requirements for the course.

Tasters

Before your course starts you’ll be invited to a series of taster days held by your course tutors during the year. These are an opportunity to find out what being a student will be like, get to know your tutor, find your way around college and meet others who’ll be doing the same course as you.

Enrol

Before you start your course in September, you’ll be asked to come into college to enrol for your course. You’ll be asked to bring your exam results to show us and it’s the chance to complete any other paperwork, such as applications for financial support. What’s more, you’ll then get your college ID badge which means you’ll officially be one of our students!

City of Wolverhampton College

COURSE OPTIONS – course levels explained

#DefiningFutures

The college’s purpose is #DefiningFutures for every student, whichever level you are studying or route you take.

When you start your course, tutors will set you clear tasks and goals and will review your progress at regular tutorials. If you need help to meet your targets they’ll provide you with the support you need, and if you’re on track they’ll give you advice on additional work you can do to extend your learning further.

Which level will I study at?

During your interview with an admissions tutor, you will be advised which level of study will be most suitable for you, based on your GCSE results (or predicted grades) and other knowledge, skills and experience.

When I get my results, what happens if they’re not what I need?

We know that sometimes things don’t go to plan. When you get your results, if they’re not quite what you expected or the grades we asked for, there’s no need to worry – we can help you and support you through the options of alternative courses.

ADVANCE YOUR FUTURE

A Levels

With a range of courses on offer – many of which are different to those available at school – we can help you study the subjects that interest you and the combination that best suits your plans for your future career.

You will study three A Level subjects in-depth across two years of the course to gain full A Level qualifications.

You’ll also have access to wvSixth – our refurbished sixth form centre which is solely for our A Level students. Pass rates are high, and many of our students go on to university or into employment.

A Levels are offered in the following subjects:

• Art

• Biology

• Business

• Chemistry

• English Language

• English Literature

• Environmental Science

• Government and Politics

• History

• Law

• Maths

• Physics

• Psychology

• Sociology

I haven’t got the grades to do A Levels!

If you want to do A Levels in science but haven’t got the right grades for the subjects you want to study, the Access to A Levels programme will give you the opportunity to study a range of GCSEs, including English and maths, so that you can progress to A Levels next year.

I want to study A Levels and a Level 3 qualification at the same time

We know that doing three A Levels might not always be the best combination for your future career, so we offer three Level 3 qualifications that can be studied as part of your study programme.

You can opt to combine one A Level with two Level 3 options, or two A Levels with one Level 3 option

The Level 3 options are:

• Applied Criminology

• Applied Law

• Applied Psychology

Five reasons to choose A Levels with us:

1 Wide range of subjects to choose from

2 Support with UCAS applications and preparation for university

3 Dedicated sixth form centre at the Paget Road campus

4 Excellent pass rates

5 A High Grades Academy to support students in achieving A*-B grades

Automotive

If you are a budding mechanic or technician, our industry-recognised Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) qualifications will enable you to gain the specialist skills and knowledge to put you on the road to a successful career in the sector.

The automotive workshops are equipped with industrystandard facilities, including an open-plan mechanical workshop, spray booth and paint room, air con and electrical repair area, welding and fabrication workshop, and diagnostic equipment and technology. What’s more, with the launch of a new electric vehicle and green technologies centre you’ll learn the skills you need to work in this rapidly growing area of the industry.

We offer a range of courses – from entry level to Level 3 qualifications – in body repair, vehicle finishing and car maintenance and, depending on the course you choose, you’ll learn all about engines, chassis, electrical systems, suspension, gear boxes and all the other elements you need to become an automotive vehicle technician.

Full-time courses available: •

Five reasons to choose automotive with us:

1 Fully-equipped automotive workshop

2 Opportunity to move to an automotive apprenticeship and continue with your course

3

New electric vehicle and green technologies centre

4 Professionally trained and industry-experienced tutors

5 Industry-recognised qualifications that will look great on your CV

PREPARE YOUR FUTURE

Bakery, Hospitality and Catering

Whether you want to cook up a great career as a professional chef or turn out tempting bread and cakes in a bakery, our hospitality and catering courses will teach you the skills you need for a great career.

As a budding chef you will learn your trade in our training kitchens – which are equipped with a range of industrystandard equipment – and dish-up a range of delicious meals for paying customers.

And if a career in bakery is your dream you will learn how to produce tasty bread, cakes and pastries in our own bakery – and sell them to customers in our popular on-site bakery shop.

You will be taught by tutors who have many years’ experience of working in the hospitality and catering sector themselves and will gain industry-recognised City and Guilds (C&G) and FDQ qualifications which will impress employers when you are applying for jobs in the sector in the future.

Full-time courses available:

• Introduction to the Hospitality Industry C&G Level 1 Diploma

• Professional Bakery FDQ Level 2 Diploma

• Professional Bakery FDQ Level 3 Diploma

• Professional Cookery C&G Level 2 Diploma

• Professional Cookery C&G Level 3 Diploma

Five reasons to choose Bakery, Hospitality and Catering with us:

1

Professional working kitchens with industrystandard equipment

2 Industry-recognised qualifications which will look great on your CV

3 Produce a range of dishes and products for paying customers

4 Qualified tutors with experience of working in the industry themselves

5 Great links with local employers and access to work experience placements

MANAGE YOUR FUTURE

Business and Professional

Whether you want to work in accounting, administration, customer service, finance, human resources or sales and marketing, we’ve got a course to lead you to a successful career in the business sector.

Our courses will give you a broad understanding of your chosen area and will help you to develop the skills and the knowledge needed to work in your chosen speciality.

We have excellent links with local employers and you will get the chance to visit professional organisations to gain an insight into the way their business or service operates, as well as the opportunity to discuss career paths and future options with people already working in the sector.

We have excellent feedback from our past students and many have gone on to work as accountants, business managers, entrepreneurs, estate agents, lawyers, lecturers, teachers or sales advisers for banks and building societies.

Full-time courses available:

• Business Pearson Level 1 Diploma

• Business Pearson Level 2 Extended Certificate

• Business Pearson Level 3 Foundation Diploma

• Business Pearson Level 3 Extended Diploma

Five reasons to choose business with us:

1 Develop skills enabling you to work in a wide range of areas

2 Visit businesses to find out how they operate

3 Tutors with many years’ experience of working in the industry themselves

4 Talk to visiting speakers about what it’s like to work in their specific profession

5 Opportunity to progress to university-level courses

Childcare and Early Years

If you want to work with children and young people we offer a range of courses to equip you with specialist skills for a rewarding career in early years education.

You will gain valuable work experience in schools, nurseries and playgroups – giving you the chance to put what you are learning in the classroom into practice – and learn how to build relationships and trust with parents whilst maintaining professional boundaries.

You will practice making observations of children through the use of our extensive range of training DVDs, visit art galleries and parks to consider child-friendly activities, and meet professionals from a range of occupations at educational visits, childcare conferences and health fairs.

We have excellent achievement rates and many of our former students are now employed as early years workers or managers of children’s centres in the city – so study early years education with us and take the first steps towards your future career!

Full-time courses available:

• Caring for Children CACHE Childcare Level 1 Diploma

• Childcare (Early Years Practitioners) CACHE Level 2 Certificate

• Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator) CACHE Level 3 Diploma

Five reasons to choose early years with us:

1 On-site early years rooms equipped with range of educational and play equipment

2 Gain valuable work experience in a range of early years settings

3 Visit early years settings as part of your course

4 Tutors with many years’ experience and excellent professional links within the sector

5 Opportunity to progress to university-level qualifications

PROGRAMME YOUR FUTURE

Computing and IT

Our computing courses will help you achieve a competitive advantage over your peers in one of the fastest growing global industries and you’ll be able to follow in the footsteps of our past students who have gone on to become web designers, programmers, computer technicians or IT teachers.

We have a range of qualifications on offer to appeal to whatever your area of interest – computer programming, web development, network administration, games development, digital graphics, digital technology, networking or cyber security.

Computing occupations are estimated to grow rapidly over the next decade. Want in? Start your journey by studying computing at college!

Full-time courses available:

• Computing/IT Pearson Level 1 Diploma

• Computing/IT Pearson l Level 2 Extended Certificate

• Digital Support Services T Level

• IT (Cyber Security, Games Programming & Mobile Apps) Pearson Level 3 Foundation Diploma

Five reasons to choose computing and IT with us:

1 Range of courses to suit your individual interest

2 Courses developed to meet the needs of this fast-growing sector

3 Industry-recognised qualifications to impress future employers

4 Tutors with a wealth of experience of working in the industry and excellent professional links

5 Opportunity to progress to university-level courses

Construction

If you want to work in the construction industry our Construction Innovation Centre at the Wellington Road campus is the ideal place to lay the foundations for your future career.

The purpose-built centre offers some of the best training facilities in the region, with dedicated workshops and classrooms for brickwork, carpentry and joinery, construction technician studies, electrical and electronics, painting and decorating, plastering and plumbing, as well as new outside training areas for groundworks and rail track installation.

You will receive industry-standard training from experts, gain industry-recognised City & Guilds (C&G) qualifications and benefit from demonstrations of latest building products and techniques by leading companies, giving you a range of skills in your chosen trade and the skills you need for a great career.

We aim to not only equip you with the skills you need to work in the construction industry, but to also engage you in cutting edge innovation and practice to enable you to become future leaders in the sector.

Full-time courses available:

• Basic Construction Skills C&G Entry Level 3 Extended Certificate

• Basic Construction Skills C&G Level 1 Extended Certificate

• Bricklaying C&G Level 1 Diploma

• Carpentry & Joinery C&G Level 1 Diploma

• Construction and the Built Environment Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

• Electrical Installation C&G 7202 Level 1 Diploma

• Electrical Installation C&G 8202 Level 2 Diploma

• Electrical Installation C&G 8202 Level 3 Diploma

• On-site Carpentry T Level

• Painting & Decorating C&G Level 1 Diploma

• Painting & Decorating C&G Level 2 Diploma

• Plumbing C&G Level 1 Diploma

• Plumbing C&G Level 2 Diploma

• Site Carpentry C&G Level 2 Diploma

• Site Carpentry C&G Level 3 Diploma

Five reasons to choose construction with us:

1

Purpose built construction centre

2

Dedicated trade workshops with industry-standard professional tools and equipment

3

Highly motivated tutors with recent professional experience of working in the industry

4 Opportunity to move to a construction apprenticeship and continue with your course

5

Industry-recognised qualifications that will look great on your CV

CREATE YOUR FUTURE

Creative Arts

Whether you have a passion for performing, a flair for design or dream of working in the film, television, games or music industry, we have a course to equip you for whatever part of the industry you want to go into.

We are one the only college in the area to offer the full range of courses accredited by the University of the Arts London Awarding Body (UAL) and have been awarded the Arts Mark Gold status by Arts Council England for our excellent courses and links with employers, so we pride ourselves on equipping you with the skills and knowledge you need to be a success in the industry.

We have industry-standard music recording studios, TV and radio broadcasting suites, as well as dedicated studios for photography, print and fashion, 3D games design, fine arts and graphics. Depending on your course, you will work alongside professional film crews, get involved in live sound sessions at The Slade Rooms in the city centre, showcase your talents at shows and exhibitions and work collaboratively with other creative areas on cross-college events and productions.

All of our tutors have professional experience in the creative industry and, as a member of the National Skills Academy for Creative and Culture, we have access to professionals from a range of creative sectors to enhance your learning.

Full-time courses available:

• Art & Design UAL Level 2 Diploma

• Art & Design UAL Level 2 Applied General Diploma/Extended Diploma

• Art & Design UAL Level 3 Foundation Diploma

• Art & Design UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma

• Creative Media Production and Technology UAL Level 2 Diploma

• Creative Media Production and Technology UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma

• Esports (Games Design) UAL Level 2 Diploma

• Esports (Games Design) UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma

• Games Design UAL Level 2 Diploma

• Games Design UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma

• Music Technology UAL Level 2 Diploma

• Music Technology UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma

• Performing Arts UAL Level 2 Diploma

• Performing Arts UAL Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma

• Photography UAL Level 3 Applied General Extended Diploma

Five reasons to choose creative arts with us:

1 Professional equipment and training facilities at the Paget Road campus and Slade Rooms

2 Full range of UALaccredited courses

3 Active practitioner tutors with current professional experience in the creative industry

4 Training Provider of the Year at the Creative and Cultural Awards

5 Showcase your talents at shows, exhibitions and cross-college events and productions

ENGINEER YOUR FUTURE

If you want a career in engineering, our courses will give you the skills and knowledge to gain well-paid employment and embark on an exciting and rewarding career in the industry.

Our manufacturing engineering workshops feature the latest industry-standard facilities including programmable logic controllers, rapid prototyping machines, circuit assembly equipment, lathes, CNCs and milling machines and a range of maintenance equipment as well as welding booths, a specialist computer aided design suite with the latest CAD drafting facilities, and dedicated CAD/CAM PCs in the workshops.

We work closely with major employers in the area to ensure the skills we teach meet the needs of their businesses and have an excellent record of helping students to progress to employment or an apprenticeship in the industry, as well as on to university-level higher education qualifications.

What’s more, our engineering centre operates as a modern manufacturing plant and incorporates Lean Systems –including improvement processes, elimination of waste and developing smarter working practices – into all its courses, something that will look great on your CV and impress employers when you are applying for jobs in the future.

Full-time courses available:

• Engineering C&G Level 1 Certificate

• Engineering Pearson BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate

• Engineering Pearson BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma

• Engineering Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma

Five reasons to choose engineering with us:

1 Dedicated engineering learning centre

2 Workshops equipped with specialist equipment and tools

3 Industry-recognised qualifications to impress employers

4 Tutors with professional experience and excellent industry links

5 Opportunity to move to an engineering apprenticeship and continue with your course

STYLE YOUR FUTURE

Hair and Beauty

Whether you want to pamper people in a beauty salon or create cutting-edge styles for clients in a hair salon our training facilities, combined with experience of working with real customers in our New Era hair and beauty salon, will equip you with the skills you need for an exciting career in the industry.

If you are a hairdressing student you will offer professional cuts, colours, perms and styling to paying customers all under the expert supervision of our highly skilled tutors who have worked in the industry themselves.

And if you are a beauty student you will provide a range of treatments – including facials, massages, manicures, pedicures, spray tans and waxing to clients.

Our City & Guilds (C&G) industry qualifications are what employers look for when recruiting new staff and will look great on your CV when you are applying for jobs in the future.

Full-time courses available:

• Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector Level 1 Diploma

• Beauty Therapy C&G Level 1 Diploma

• Beauty Therapy C&G Level 2 Diploma

• Beauty Therapy C&G Level 3 Diploma

• Beauty Therapy with Nail Enhancement C&G Level 2 Diploma

• Nail Technology C&G Level 3 Diploma

• Hairdressing C&G Level 1 Diploma

• Hairdressing C&G Level 2 Diploma

• Hairdressing C&G Level 3 Diploma

Five reasons to choose hair and beauty with us:

1 Commercial hair and beauty salons open to the public

2 Opportunity to enhance your skills with additional qualifications

3 Industry-standard equipment and professional products

4 Opportunity to showcase your skills in shows and competitions

5 Industry-experienced and highly-qualified tutors to support you

CARE ABOUT YOUR FUTURE

Health and Social Care

If you are interested in working in health care or social care, qualifications are essential and we can give you a great start to your future career in the sector.

You will explore and learn about a range of issues relating to the health and social care sector and have the opportunity to do work placements, enabling you to gain practical experience and use your new skills and knowledge in reallife settings.

Our lecturers have a range of experience and qualifications in health and social care so don’t just teach theory, but prepare you for a career in the profession. After all, why learn from a book when you can learn from a nurse? Why discuss psychology in a classroom when you could be discussing how to help people with it in a real care setting?

Full-time courses available:

• Health, Social Care and Children & Young People NCFE Level 1 Diploma

• Health & Social Care NCFE Level 2 Extended Diploma

• Health & Social Care NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate

• Health & Social Care NCFE CACHE Level 3 Extended Diploma

Five reasons to choose Health and Social Care with us:

1 Take part in simulated activities and scenarios in our Health and Social Care Hub

2 Industry-recognised qualifications to impress future employers

3 Use your skills and knowledge on work experience placements as part of your course

4 Industry-qualified tutors with first-hand experience of working in the sector

5 Opportunity to progress to higher education qualifications

Science

If you are interested in the fascinating world of science, our courses will give you the practical skills and knowledge to work in whichever branch of the sector you choose.

We have dedicated science laboratories that provide a realistic workplace environment where you will be able to gain practical skills needed to progress to university or get a job in the industry.

You will also have the opportunity to research, design, prepare and carry out your own practical experiments, attend masterclasses at local universities and participate in science-related educational visits.

What’s more, our experienced lecturers will bring learning to life, provide extra help and support if you need it, and help you get the grades you need for whatever you want to do in the future.

Full-time courses available:

• Applied Biomedical Science Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

• Applied Science Pearson BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate

• Applied Science Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

• Healthcare Science T Level

Five reasons to choose science with us:

1 Dedicated science tutors for each specialism

2 Enrichment opportunities e.g. Operating Theatre Live and Medical Mavericks

3 Research, design and carry out your own experiments

4 Experienced tutors who have worked in the science field themselves

5 Industry-recognised qualifications to impress employers

TRAIN FOR YOUR FUTURE

Sport and Fitness

If you want to pursue a career in the sport and fitness industry, our range of courses will enable you to gain the skills, knowledge and experience you need work in whichever area of the industry you choose.

As well as gaining skills in your chosen area, you will also develop your personal, social and employability skills by working with commercial clients as a fitness instructor or personal trainer in our Community Sports Centre.

If coaching is your chosen pursuit, you will have the opportunity to lead coaching sessions and extra-curricular activities such as football, basketball, netball and cricket which will give you a head start when applying for jobs in the industry.

What’s more, if you’ve got a passion for football, basketball or boxing, our academy programmes will enable you to work towards specific coaching qualifications alongside your main programme of study.

Past students have gone on to become sports coaches, personal trainers, sports development officers, teachers, physiotherapists and many more skilled jobs in sport.

Full-time courses available:

• Boxing Academy – Sport Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma

• Fitness Instructing Active IQ Level 2 Certificate

• Football Academy – Sport Pearson BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate

• Football Academy – Sport Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma

• Personal Training Active IQ Level 3 Diploma

• Sport and Active Leisure Pearson Level 1 Diploma

• Sport Pearson BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate

• Sports Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma

Five reasons to choose sport and fitness with us:

1

Purpose-built sports centre equipped with latest fitness and training equipment

2

Work with paying clients as part of your course

3 Boost your own strength and fitness as part of your course

4 Run activity sessions and holiday clubs for local youngsters

5 Industry-recognised qualifications to impress future employers

Travel and Tourism

If you want to be part of an industry where you could travel the world, meet new people and explore travel destinations in the UK and beyond, we can help get your career off to a flying start!

As part of your course you could be learning about airports, customer service, holiday bookings, how to research and market tourist hotspots and worldwide destinations.

What’s more, you’ll have the chance to visit UK attractions and even do work experience abroad.

We have outstanding success rates on this course and excellent feedback from our past students, many of whom have gone on to work as cabin crew, holiday reps, immigration staff and travel agents as well as many other roles within the industry.

Full-time courses available:

• Travel,

• Travel,

• Travel,

Five reasons to choose travel and tourism with us:

1 Learn the skills you need for job roles in the UK and abroad

2 Work experience opportunities abroad

3 Work in the industry as part of your course

4 Visit a range of travel organisations to find out how they operate

5 Complete additional industry-related qualifications as part of your course

SERVE YOUR FUTURE

Uniformed Public Services

If you want to work in the ambulance, fire, police or prison service, get a job with the UK Border Agency or join the army, navy or RAF, our courses will put you on the path to a successful career in uniformed public services.

You will gain an in-depth understanding of these essential public services and the skills and knowledge required to work in your chosen area – whether on the front line or in a vital supporting role.

What’s more, with specialist pathways focussing on the police or marines, army, fire or ambulance (MAFA) services you will develop the specific skills, knowledge and behaviours required to work for these high-profile organisations.

You will study modules in citizenship, discipline, health and fitness, leadership and team work, as well as learning about command and control, responding to emergency situations, and visit a range of public services to find out more about how they operate and the career opportunities available.

Full-time courses available:

• Entry to Uniformed Public Services NCFE Level 3 Diploma

• BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma in Public Services

• Public Services Pearson Level 2 Extended Certificate

• Protective Services (Police Pathway) Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma

• Protective Services (Police Pathway) Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma

• Protective Services (MAFA Pathway) Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma

• Protective Services (MAFA Pathway) Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma

Five reasons to choose uniformed public services with us:

1 Develop leadership, team working and communication skills

2 Take part in a range of outdoor activities

3 Visit public service organisations as part of your course

4 Improve your own health and fitness

5 Tutors with many years’ experience of working in uniformed public services

Maths and English

Qualifications and skills in maths and English are vital for your success in day-to-day life as well as at college, university or in your future career.

Employers value a high standard of maths and English and you will continue to develop your skills during your time with us.

If you haven’t already got a GCSE 9-4 grade in maths and English then you will continue to study for this alongside your chosen course.

ESOL

If English isn’t your first language and you want to improve your skills to help you study, gain employment or manage in everyday life, our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) is the course for you.

And whilst improving your English you will also be able to gain additional qualifications in maths, ICT, work skills and personal and social development.

Futures Foundation Learning

The Futures Programme is aimed at young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and/or an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and is tailored to their individual requirements.

The range of specialised programmes aim to enhance life skills and help students to prepare for adulthood and develop personal and employability skills.

Programmes available:

• Directions

• Horizons

• Pathways to Work

• Progression to Advanced Study and Apprenticeships

• Progression to Vocational Studies Entry Level 3 Diploma

• Sports Inclusion Academy (in partnership with Wolverhampton Wanderers)

• Vocational Pathway

Five reasons to choose Futures with us:

1 Learning plans tailored to meet individual needs

2 Support from a dedicated team of staff

3 Preparation for adulthood independent living

4 Development of personal and employability skills

5 Opportunities to take part in work experience activities and progress to paid employment

Five reasons to choose apprenticeships with us:

1 Get on the career ladder

2 Earn while you learn

3 Learn skills ‘on the job’

4 Work towards occupational standards set by employers

5 Develop the skills and knowledge employers look for

Apprenticeships

If you can’t decide between staying on in education or getting a job, you can do both with an apprenticeship!

As an apprentice you will do a real job for a real employer, learning ‘on the job’ by working alongside experienced staff in the workplace and, what’s more, you’ll get paid too!

As part of your apprenticeship - usually for one day a week - you will work towards occupational standards set by employers and will be supported throughout your programme by college staff who will work closely with individual employers to ensure the skills you learn are what is required by their business and that you will achieve your full potential and career aspirations.

Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of sectors, and on successful completion of the programme you’ll be equipped with the practical skills and knowledge needed to move into employment in your chosen industry, pursue a higher apprenticeship or study for a higher education qualification at college or university.

How do I find an apprenticeship?

We work closely with employers from across the region to advertise apprenticeship vacancies and recruit apprentices on their behalf. Check out the latest apprenticeship vacancies at www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/apprenticeship-jobs

You can also speak to an employer to find out if they would be interested in offering you an apprenticeship. If they are, just let us know and a member of the apprenticeship team will contact them to discuss your training requirements and get you on board -  apprenticeships@wolvcoll.ac.uk

How much will I get paid?

There are different rates of pay for apprentices depending on your age and what year of your apprenticeship you’re in.

For the latest guidance and more information on rates of pay visit www.gov.uk/become-apprentice/pay-andconditions

Five steps to becoming an apprentice

1

Apply – Apply online or by visiting one of our open events held throughout the year

“I’m doing a job I love, learning the skills I need for my future career and earning a wage at the same time.”

Meet the recruitment team – you’ll be invited to college to meet the recruitment team who will support you with your application and help match you to the apprenticeship vacancies available.

2

3 Skills Assessment – employers will need to know what your level of maths and English is so you’ll be invited to college to do an assessment

“I chose an apprenticeship as it’s a good way to get on-the-job training and learn alongside colleagues who have many years’ experience working in the industry.

“I complete new tasks every day to broaden my skills and have become more confident in what I am asked to do and in talking to members of the public.

4

Interview – when the recruitment team has matched you to a suitable apprenticeship vacancy, the employer will invite you for interview.

5

Success! – if you impress the employer at the interview and they wish to offer you the job you’ll get a phone call from either the employer or the college recruitment team to give you the good news!

If, after the interview, the employer decides not to offer you the job, don’t worry! The recruitment team will continue to work with you to improve your interview skills and match you to more vacancies in your chosen industry.

“Getting to a dream career doesn’t always mean having to stop on at school to do A Levels and then go to university – an apprenticeship allows you to continue with education and gain skills while getting experience in the career path you chose, broadening your opportunities for the future.”

Sophie Jones Business administration apprentice at Berriman Eaton Estate Agents

Higher Education

Higher Education (HE) is the next level up after A Levels, Level 3 vocational courses or an advanced apprenticeship.

HE is often referred to as ‘university-level’ but you don’t actually have to go to uni to do a course! You can do HE qualifications at college, saving money on course fees and, because you’ll be staying local, you’ll also save money on accommodation costs too!

Our university-level programmes typical cost around £5,500 per year - that’s a huge saving compared to university - but less cost doesn’t mean less quality. With industry-standard facilities, highly-qualified professional staff and courses developed in conjunction with employers, you’ll develop skills to enhance your future prospects and enable you to excel in your chosen career.

Our Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) are delivered through Pearson - the UK’s largest awarding body - with Foundation Degrees delivered in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton.

What’s more, depending on the qualification you choose, you may be able to progress to a ‘top-up’ course at university leading to a full honours degree in a relevant subject.*

Visit www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/higher-education for a list of courses available.

Five reasons to choose higher education with us:

1 University-level qualifications

2 Save money on course fees

3 Range of HNCs, HNDs and Foundation Degrees

4 Foundation Degrees delivered in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton

5 Opportunity to ‘top-up’ to a full honours degree*

*Please check that progression is available for your chosen qualification

FREE BREAKFAST for students*

On-site

BURSARIES available for equipment and childcare *

High levels of student satisfaction

*Subject to eligibility, terms and conditions apply

Maths & English are an important part of our study programmes

Get involved

As a City of Wolverhampton College student we want you to work hard to achieve your qualification and progress to a successful future career, but we also want you to have fun too!

There’s plenty of ways you can get involved in college life, make new friends and take advantage of some great student deals on offer.

Freshers’ activities take place at the start of the academic year in September and are a great opportunity to make new friends and find out all about what the college has to offer.

Become a class rep – only you know what it’s like to be a City of Wolverhampton College student and as a class rep you can represent the views of your classmates to the college management team. Being a class rep is great fun - you can help shape what college life is like, suggest improvements to make it even better and impress employers with your involvement with extra-curricular activities.

Join the Students’ Union – there is always lots going on in the SU so make the most of your time at college by getting involved and having fun!

Save money – as a City of Wolverhampton College student you can save money with the TOTUM card (formerly NUS Extra) which offers over 200 discounts online and in store exclusively for students. Get yours at www.totum.com

Get pampered – need a haircut or a bit of pampering?

The college’s New Era hair and beauty salons offer a wide range of treatments and services, with fantastic offers for students - go on, treat yourself! Call 01902 821340

Stay healthy – our sports centre is equipped with a range of fitness equipment and with special student rates you can keep your body active as well as your mind and save money while you’re getting fit!

Do work experience abroad and impress employers with your international knowledge! Depending on your course you may be eligible to participate in a funded work experience programme which will see you jetting off to work for companies in a range of foreign destinations.

#wolvcollsu

Get social with us

For the latest college news, events, student success and course information follow us on social media, download the myWolvcoll app, visit our YouTube channel, check out our website www.wolvcoll.ac.uk or call 01902 836000.

Help and Support

Additional Learning Support

If you have a learning difficulty and/or a disability and you need extra learning-related support to help you to reach your full potential, our additional learning support team is there to help.

The team will ensure that the support provided is tailored to your individual needs to enable you to achieve your qualification.

If you’re struggling with English and/or maths which is making it harder to complete your main course successfully you can access additional support for through our Study Hubs and Maths & English Hubs.

Sometimes you may feel you need extra support with assignments or organising your time - the Study Hubs at both campuses offer ‘out of class’ support which you can access throughout course - just drop in and chat to staff about the help you need.

If you have a recognised support need or an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) you may be eligible to have a student support worker to help you in class.

And for our high needs students, our Futures programme focusses on preparation for adulthood independent living and the development of personal and employability skills –see page 41 for further details

For more details go to www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/additionallearning-support or  als@wolvcoll.ac.uk and one of the team will be in touch to discuss your needs further.

Careers Guidance

Deciding on your next steps after leaving school can be confusing with so many different options to choose from.

Speak to staff in our award-winning careers guidance team for advice to help you make the right decision for a successful future career. Even if you don’t know what you want to do, they’ll still be able to help and will take the time to discuss which routes you could explore further.

What’s more, you don’t need to already be a student with us to get their help - you can chat to them if you need help in deciding which course to apply for, which qualification would be best for your future career, or whether a full-time course or an apprenticeship would be the best option for you.

Book a slot with the careers guidance team

 01902 317689 or  careersguidance@wolvcoll.ac.uk

Financial support

Age 16-18?

All our courses for 16-18-year-olds are fully funded meaning they are FREE! You may also qualify for a travel pass, lunch card for free college meals, printing credit and support with educational visits and equipment (dependent on household income). For full details of financial support available and the eligibility criteria visit:

www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/financial-support-16-18

Age 19-23 and studying for your first qualification at Level 3 or below?

Financial support may be available depending on your individual income and if the course is eligible for funding. For full details of financial support available and the eligibility criteria visit www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/financial-support-19-23

Age 19+ and studying at Level 3 or above?

You could be eligible for a student loan to help you access the financial support you might need to study for a qualification. For full details of financial support available and the eligibility criteria visit www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/advanced-learning-loan