FIND A SUSTAINABLE CAREER PATH
Check out the different routes to achieve your goal
THE FUTURE IS IN YOUR HANDS
Choose from 15 subjects
BE PART OF THE SOLUTION DEVELOP TECHNICAL SKILLS NEEDED BY INDUSTRY
Scientists & Environmentalists wanted
WELCOME TO PLUMPTON COLLEGE
Do you want to develop the expert skills and knowledge required to sustain and nurture animals, the land and environment? Or are you creative? Passionate about learning the skills required to protect artisan and rural crafts?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then there has never been a better time to consider studying one of our courses as they: are key to the land and environment sector, which is seeing the most significant changes for over 50 years, driven by technological advances, climate change, conservation and sustainability. are in demand by employers looking for highly qualified employees. are taught by lecturers who are experts in their field, many having worked in industry, who are passionate about working with students to expand their horizons and help them realise their ambitions.
We pride ourselves on the support we give to every student including a fantastic enrichment programme giving you the opportunity to try new things, make friends for life, and build your confidence.
Our ultimate aim is to provide a professional setting preparing you for a dynamic career in the land and environment sector.
I look forward to welcoming you to Plumpton College for one of our Open Events or Taster Days.
Jeremy Kerswell Principal
WHY STUDY WITH US?
National Park 800 hectares* campus
set in the South Downs
*equivalent to 1,500 football pitches
STATE OF THE ART FACILITIES
Designed to give you the best knowledge, skills and experience on your course.
94% of students feel safe at college
STUDENT SURVEY 2024
Providing opportunities to make friends, volunteer, keep fit and learn new skills.
99% of students know how to keep safe online
STUDENT SURVEY 2022
£2.2m funding received to develop STEM facilities for higher education and technical training in veterinary and animal sciences.
PASSIONATE & EXPERIENCED
LECTURERS
Many of who have worked in the industry.
93% of students feel their lessons are helping them to develop skills needed for industry
STUDENT SURVEY 2024
£15m invested in campus development and resources e.g. agri-tech, One Garden Brighton & Agri-Food Hub
STUDENTS’ Ensuring your views are represented with events including RAG Day, Plumpton Pride, WellFest and the annual Summer Ball!
UNION VIBRANT
STUDENT SURVEY 2024 for your studies, tutorials & work Holistic support experience
Supporting your progression, into employment, an apprenticeship or higher education. guidance career Expert
90% of students enjoy their course
LEVEL 3 VOCATIONAL COURSES
Upon successfully completing Level 2 course
FLORISTRY
MOTOR VEHICLE
LEVEL 3
ADVENTURE EDUCATION
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING
ANIMAL MANAGEMENT
BLACKSMITHING & METALWORK
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES & CONSERVATION
EQUINE MANAGEMENT
FISHERIES & AQUATIC SCIENCE
FORESTRY & ARBORICULTURE
HORTICULTURE
TWO YEAR COURSES
EQUIVALENT TO 3 A LEVELS
Pass = Grade C
Merit = Grade B
Distinction = Grade A
Distinction* = Grade A*
Entry Requirements; 5 GCSEs grade 9-4, including English, Maths & Science
If you haven’t already gained a GCSE grade 4 or above in
English and/or Maths, you will need to continue these subjects as part of your study programme.
T Levels are a two year technical qualification designed with employers to ensure you have the right skills needed by the industry.
T Level courses include compulsory elements which are: core theory, concepts and skills for the industry specialist skills and knowledge for a specific career or occupation industry placement of a minimum of 315 hours (approx. 45 days) to give you the relevant experience in the workplace a minimum standard in English & Maths if you have not already achieved a grade 4 or above in your GCSEs
T LEVELS
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This course covers many aspects of modern agriculture which will allow you to develop your skills at Lambert Farm, one of the largest college farm estates in the UK.
You will be introduced to the latest farming technology and practices, including GPS mapping, dairy robotics, the new £1.2 million piggery unit, field data collection and the use of drones.
We cover all key enterprises including beef and dairy cattle, pigs and sheep. You’ll study plant and soil science, grassland management, machinery operation and managing agriculture environments, benefitting from the new Agri-Food Hub.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career in soil science, farm management or BSc (Hons) in Sustainable Agriculture with us or similiar courses at other universities.
SCAN
The outdoor adventure education industry is a rapidly developing sector. This course is ideal for you if you have an interest or aptitude for adventure sports or the outdoors. You’ll have access to the extensive college estate, the South Downs National Park plus local inland and coastal waters.
The course covers a wide range of specialist subject areas, leading to the development of organisational and leadership skills alongside practical skills in a range of land and water based activities.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as an Expedition Leader, Outdoor Instructor, Sports Coach or BSc (Hons) in Outdoor and Adventure Education at university.
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As a sector in demand, you’ll explore the creative and diverse world of metalsmithing studying traditional and contemporary skills. Our facilities provide you with all the equipment you need to develop a broad range of industry skills and knowledge, including understanding different tools and techniques, safe working and the application of welding processes.
You will learn everything from heavy forge work, different types of welding and fine jewellery; all you need to explore your own creative practice.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as a Blacksmith, Fabricator, Jewellery Maker or BA (Hons) Artistic Blacksmithing at university.
Are you interested in the welfare of animals, tropical aquatics, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles or domesticated livestock?
The course covers a range of subjects: animal handling, science, conservation, biology, law, animal husbandry, ecology, and animal welfare.
Most importantly, you’ll be able to develop industry contacts and gain first-hand experience through work placements which will run alongside practical training and development of your academic skills.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career in animal welfare or conservation, as a Zookeeper, Animal Welfare Officer or Cattery Manager. Study BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Behaviour & Welfare with us or similiar courses at other universities.
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If you’re passionate about a career protecting the environment, you’ll get to study a range of issues which underpin this important subject.
The campus is ideally situated to study topics including; land and countryside use, conservation of British habitats and estate skills.
You’ll analyse the complex impact that tourism and development have on the countryside, learning about the scientific implications relating to these issues, enabling you to evaluate the threats and solutions that conservationists are facing.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as an Ecologist, Woodland & Wildlife Ranger, Environmental Officer or BSc (Hons) Environmental Land Management with us or similiar courses at other universities.
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If you’re passionate about horses and looking to develop a career in the equine industry, this is the course for you.
You will have the opportunity to develop practical and supervisory skills while learning the scientific theory of equine management.
We have all the facilities to support you with indoor schools, stabling, an outdoor menage plus a mechanical horse to help practice your position in the saddle, preparing you for new types of riding or jumping.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as a Riding Instructor, Competition Groom, an Equine Behaviouralist or BSc (Hons) Equine Science & Coaching with us or similiar courses at other universities.
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Our specialist centre will provide you with the practical and theory knowledge in fishery management, aquatics, aquaculture and aquatic environmental protection.
You’ll learn how lakes and rivers are managed, including freshwater and marine principles, fish health, aquatic sciences, aquatic production and water quality.
On trips, you’ll learn surveying and capturing techniques, including seine netting and electrofishing.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as an Environmental Officer, Marine Conservationist or Fisheries Manager. Study BSc (Hons) Aquaculture and Fishery Management at university.
Do you have a passion for protecting and cultivating our woodlands, and enjoy being in the great outdoors?
The course will teach you about tree planting, identification, care, felling and conservation practices. You’ll develop skills and knowledge in plant and soil science, forest and woodland skills, pests, diseases and tree inspections.
You’ll also learn about tree safety and the latest technical innovation in tree processing practices.
WHERE
COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as a Tree Surgeon, Woodland Arborist, Forest Manager or study BSc (Hons) Arboriculture and Urban Forestry at university.
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Horticulture is the only land and environment industry which links the UK’s climate to art, craft, nature and science.
You’ll gain skills and knowledge in plant identification, maintaining turf, plant health, pests and diseases, pruning, maintaining trees and shrubs while using specialist equipment and machinery.
You will also learn about plant and soil science and business skills. As part of your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to work on live projects at the college and at our Stanmer campus, our horticultural centre of excellence.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as a Gardener, Landscaper or Crop Producer or study BSc (Hons) Sustainable Horticulture with us or similiar courses at other universities.
Looking to build on your skills and create a real career opportunity within the agricultural machinery industry?
You’ll get the chance to spend one day a week on a commercial placement; getting hands-on experience of agricultural engineering and other related working functions while building your contacts.
You’ll also get to study in our excellent workshops; fully equipped with the latest technology and facilities.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as a Environmental Engineer, Agricultural Consultant, or move to technical sales, business development, teaching or consultancy work..
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Completed your Level 2 in Floristry or have prior experience in the industry?
We’ve got fantastic facilities with a natural environment that will inspire you. You’ll get to design some stunning creations for a wide variety of occasions.
You will study a range of topics including creative floral design methods and techniques, botany and business skills.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
Starting a business, working in wholesale or as a florist. Progress onto a Level 4 Higher Diploma in Professional Floristry with us.
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Completed your Level 2 in Motor Vehicle? Or have prior experience in the industry?
This course covers all of the light vehicle service aspects, focusing on efficient diagnosis of key components to industry standards. You will discover the functions of complex systems within today’s vehicles, including electric cars and how these systems integrate with each other to operate to the manufacturer’s specification.
WHERE COULD THIS TAKE ME?
A career as an MOT Tester, Service Technician or progress on to study a BEng (Hons) Automotive Engineering at university.
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If you haven’t already gained a GCSE grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths, you will need to continue these as part of your study programme.
Please see our website for individual course entry requirements.
AGRICULTURE
Level 2
BTEC Diploma
AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING
Level 2 City & Guilds Technical Certificate
ANIMAL MANAGEMENT
Level 1
City & Guilds Diploma
Level 2
BTEC First Award or Technical Diploma
BLACKSMITHING & METALWORK
Level 2 Blacksmithing
EQUINE MANAGEMENT
Level 2 BTEC Technical Diploma
FISHERIES & AQUATIC SCIENCE
Level 2 City & Guilds Technical Certificate
FORESTRY & ARBORICULTURE
Level 2 City & Guilds Technical Certificate
FLORISTRY
Level 2
City & Guilds Technical Certificate
HORTICULTURE
Level 2 City & Guilds Diploma
HARD LANDSCAPING
Level 2 City & Guilds Diploma
MOTOR VEHICLE
Level 2 City & Guilds Technical Certificate
Level 2 Jewellery Making
ARBORIST
BAKER
BUTCHER
CROP TECHNICIAN (AGRICULTURE)
CROP TECHNICIAN (VITICULTURE)
EQUINE GROOM
FOOD & DRINK PROCESS OPERATOR
FOREST OPERATIVE
GENERAL FARM WORKER
GOLF GREENKEEPER
HORTICULTURE & LANDSCAPE OPERATIVE
HORTICULTURE & LANDSCAPE SUPERVISOR
LAND BASED SERVICE ENGINEER
LAND BASED SERVICE ENGINEER TECHNICIAN
LIVESTOCK UNIT TECHNICIAN
VETERINARY NURSE
Our apprenticeships provide an opportunity to develop your skills, knowledge and behaviours in your chosen profession via practical and theoretical training at college while in paid, full time employment.
TRAIN AS YOU EARN
As an apprentice, you’ll usually be employed to work a minimum of 30 hours per week and be paid a wage no less than the current national minimum wage for the time you are in work and training. At least 20% of your paid time will be spent in training and development, usually with us at at the college but may also take place online or in your workplace.
ACHIEVE YOUR POTENTIAL
The rest of your time will be spent applying your skills and knowledge in your workplace, doing the job you have been employed to do.
By the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll have gained the skills and knowledge needed to either succeed in your chosen career or progress onto the next apprenticeship level.
FANTASTIC FACILITIES
Whether it’s our campus farm, our winery, or the new Agri-Food Hub, you’ll benefit from training in a professional working environment with the latest technology and equipment in the industry.
HOW TO FIND AN APPRENTICESHIP
Apprenticeships require you to be in a paid job role. If you’re looking for job opportunities check out our website to sign up to our talent bank or to view current vacancies.
AGE IS NO BARRIER TO ENTERING A PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENT
Apprenticeships are open to anyone who is 16 years old and over, has a right to work in the UK and is not in full time education. There is no upper age limit, and they are available to anyone, whether starting out in their career or for those who have been working for some time.
Apprenticeships can now support your learning aspirations to the highest level, with the level of apprenticeship based on the job role and its duties.
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We provide an individualised vocational curriculum for students aged 14-16. Specialist facilities, industry trained and experienced tutors provide an excellent entry point into a chosen course.
From your starting point, you will experience the highest standards for learning and be supported to progress onto further study up to degree level, apprenticeships or work. You will benefit from smaller class sizes and you must have turned 14 at the start of the academic year.
14-16 ELECTIVE HOME EDUCATED STUDENTS (EHE)
Parents and carers of Year 10 and 11 pupils who are home educating their children can apply for a vocational programme. The usual schedule of study is three days a week, and students can choose the vocational subjects that we offer, alongside core subjects in English, Maths, Science and Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education.
Parents must be able to confirm their child’s home-educated status (e.g. a copy of the de-registration letter), and they must have been out of education for at least six months.
14-16 SCHOOL EDUCATED STUDENTS
The school release programme depends on the relevant school agreeing to release the pupil one day a week, pay the applicable cost, and provide additional support requirements.
Applicants under 16 years of age or compulsory school age on school roll must prove that their headteacher or head of year agree to them studying at Plumpton College. All correspondence will be sent via the designated lead/ contact at the school.
PROGRESSION ROUTES
Our aim is to provide students completing a 14-16 programme, the opportunity to progress on to one of our many Level 1, 2 and 3 courses.
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We’re very proud of our great community at college. When you join us, we’ll work hard to help you on your career journey. If you’re leaving school or looking for extra support in your career, we offer various routes to get you where you want to go.
Learning programmes range from Entry Level 3 through to Level 1 as well as Supported Internships. We tailor your programme to your individual needs, allowing you to build independence, problem-solving, personal, social, and work readiness skills essential for daily life and progression. We’ll be there to support you every step of the way.
LEVEL 1 OCCUPATIONAL STUDIES
If you’re a learner who wishes to develop skills to progress onto a Level 1 vocational programme but requires support to attain that goal, this could be the programme for you. You’ll get to trial course options alongside improving your English and Maths skills. Individualised programmes are developed to ensure you are ready to progress onto your chosen vocational course the following year.
ENTRY LEVEL 3 LIFE & LIVING
Do you have a desire to develop skills to progress into adulthood, including social communication, teamwork, independence, and enterprise? If you do, this is the perfect course if you want to build your confidence. Studying this programme also consists of an individualised learning programme to ensure supported progression.
AGED 18+ SUPPORTED INTERNSHIPS
This course is designed for students with an Education and Health Care Plan (EHCP) who have progressed as far as they can within education and wish to progress into work. Our expert team offer support and guidance to enable you to reach your full potential.
Working in partnership with employers and our Stanmer campus, we devise individual programmes of study to help you become work ready. You will also have the opportunity to continue improving your English and Maths skills.
Just 12 miles from Brighton city centre and set within the beautiful South Downs National Park, a host of activities are available to suit you. Whether you enjoy the great outdoors or a buzzing city to explore, it’s all on your doorstep.
STUDENTS’ UNION
Our busy, vibrant Students’ Union is led by students for students. We aim to represent each student with a host of student voice activities throughout the college year, ranging from exciting talks from National Union of Students (NUS) and local influencers.
Year on year, we aim to leave a legacy and positive change to student life. Our students play an active role in the campus development, offering feedback about residency, catering and holding regular forums with our Principal.
ENRICHMENT
We want to give you a fantastic college experience by providing a varied social calendar of trips, visits, clubs and activities that are open and accessible to everyone.
YOUR VIEWS
We take feedback from you very seriously. We want to improve the experience of college life for our students continually. You will have the opportunity to participate in student surveys and group discussions on a termly basis to ensure we get things right for you.
GIVING BACK
We play an active role in our local community each year, getting involved in projects, from local shows to our Raising and Giving Day for our chosen charities.
Last year our students raised over £2,750 for two projects; Naning’oi, a girls’ school in Kenya, to help purchase a water pump and a charity supporting Ukrainian refugees. We support local events such as the South of England Show, where students volunteer to be ambassadors for their industries.
GETTING INVOLVED
There are a number of volunteer and paid roles, including being an active member of the Students’ Union to becoming a Wellbeing or Events Ambassador, all designed to help you develop your skills and talents outside of the classroom.
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We understand there are occasions when you will need some support for those unexpected times. Your wellbeing is an essential part of the learning experience, and our location at the foot of the South Downs ensures you’re never too far from nature to take a breather.
STUDENT LEARNING AND SUPPORT
There’s a wealth of experienced staff at the college, from lecturers and tutors to a fantastic Careers Team, all here to work with you to help you achieve your goals.
YOUR HEALTH IS IMPORTANT TO US
Our Student Wellbeing and Safeguarding Team provides advice and short or long term support on a wide range of topics, including; mental health & emotional wellbeing, online safety, bullying and healthy relationships, to name but a few.
ACTION YOUR POTENTIAL
We’ve teamed up with Action Your Potential to support your mental health and wellbeing and help you get the most out of your learning through workshops and webinars for you and your family.
COUNSELLING IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE
We have an independent and confidential counselling service you can access if you need it.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION
Diversity is what makes life inspiring, interesting, enriching, and fascinating. Without this, the human race would not have evolved or developed in the ways it has.
Diversity brings new ideas, feelings, experiences, and aspirations to our worlds and invites us all to belong to an exciting and wonderfully varied global community. That is the case for our college community too. Everyone is welcome at Plumpton College.
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We’re very proud of our residential accommodation. Our excellent facilities cater for up to 200 students in modern, comfortable rooms. Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted across all areas, you’ll find them a fantastic place to stay.
We offer students accommodation on a full board basis only to ensure that if you’re studying here, you have all your needs met and can focus on achieving your best in everything you do.
The campus accommodation comprises over 200 rooms, the majority of which are single, but we do also have a very limited amount of shared accommodation available (dependent on the student’s age and gender). Over 18 year old and under 18 year old students are housed in separate corridors, with under 18 females housed separately to under 18 males.
Students studying Level 3 Agriculture, Animal Management and Equine courses can access flexible accommodation during routine periods.
ACCOMMODATION RATES
With a monthly payment plan, prices start at £5,600* per annum, and a deposit is required to secure your room. Bursary support is available, and to find out more visit our website.
BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL LIFE
As a residential student, you can look forward to a package that includes: full board catering (breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks - 7 days a week) all utility bills free Wi-Fi full 24 hours staff support daily cleaning and maintenance support access to all enrichment activities and residential evening events transport to local supermarkets and doctors surgeries
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The main campus is nestled at the foot of the South Downs, on the border of East and West Sussex and is easily accessible by bike, bus, car or train.
COLLEGE BUS NETWORK
Our students travel to and from college via our extensive bus service which is exclusive to our students.
Tickets are priced very competitively particularly if you purchase an annual ticket that can be paid monthly. You can apply for a bursary to assist with travel costs from 25-100%.
Buses start from the following destinations across Sussex and into Kent and Surrey.
Route A - Peacehaven
Route B - Shoreham
Route C - Worthing
Route D - Redhill
Route E - Newick
Route F - East Grinstead
Route G1 - Baldslow via Battle
Route G2 - Bexhill & Hastings
Route H - Tunbridge Wells
Route I - Polegate
Route J - Eastbourne
Route K - Seaford
TRAIN
Alternatively, take the train to the main local stations; Lewes, Hassocks, Plumpton and Wivelsfield, and then connect with the college bus network for the remainder of the journey.
Discounted student travel is available via a UNIZONE season ticket which is exclusive to students in the Brighton or Worthing area; you’ll enjoy unlimited travel by train.
CAR
There’s plenty of free parking on campus available to all students, including dedicated Blue Badge parking.
BIKE OR MOTORCYCLE
There are designated parking areas for motorcycles and bike racks to secure your bike.
STANMER CAMPUS
For students travelling to our Stanmer campus at One Garden Brighton, visit; onegardenbrighton.com/contact
We offer students the opportunity to study their passion, achieving qualifications and academic success in a professional environment to develop a career path directly into employment, taking up an apprenticeship or progressing on to university.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
We know from experience that the role parents and carers play is critical to student success, and we support you in doing this. It starts with Open Events, where you can tour the campus, meet the different curriculum areas, and get advice on the application process through to when students enrol. Once they start their college journey, there are parent and carer evenings to monitor progress and termly newsletters to keep you updated with what’s happening at the college.
OUR PROFESSIONAL WORKPLACE
To prepare students for their future careers, we set high expectations based on three core principles: respect, independence and dedication.
ENGLISH AND MATHS
For Level 3 courses, it is a requirement, but should a student not have achieved a grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths, they are required to study alongside their course.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
A wide range of support is delivered by our experienced staff and trusted external partners.
LEARNING SUPPORT
We pride ourselves on being inclusive, offering help and guidance to all our students, monitoring their progress and working with them to achieve their goals.
Our Inclusive Learning and Development Team can guide students with a range of learning difficulties.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications can be made directly through our website via the individual course pages, or if you live in East Sussex, students can apply with their school through eProspectus.
For 14-16 programmes, apply directly through our website.
Once an application is received, students will be invited to an interview with the aim of making them an offer to study at the college, subject to them meeting entry requirements.
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Our full time courses for students aged 16-18 are fully funded for all tuition fees. There are other costs to consider, however, there is plenty of support with bursaries and monthly payment packages to assist with equipment, travel and residential accommodation costs.
BURSARIES
We have bursary funds that are given on a discretionary basis to provide financial assistance to eligible students who, without support, would not have access to learning. Support is targeted to those most in need, therefore we consider all awards on an individual basis and in a variety of formats. Subsidised bus ticket bursaries from 25-100% can be applied for too.
LAPTOPS & TABLETS
We are now requiring all students to have a laptop on a one to one basis to facilitate flexible learning around the campus and at home. We recognise that not all of our students will have access to a laptop or device, and if you meet certain criteria, we will be able to supply a laptop from our loan pool or a device via our bursary scheme.
FACILITY FEE
Each student studying a full-time programme will be expected to pay a facility fee of £150*. Some of the services included are student wellbeing services, college Wi-Fi, lockers and sport facilities on campus.
EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING
Most courses require students to purchase equipment and/or clothing which you may require after you start and throughout your course.
FUNDING FOR STUDENTS AGED 19+
Tuition fees vary based on your study programme. These fees do not include material and assessment fees. You can apply for a loan via the Advanced Learner Loan scheme to pay for your course fees. There may be free tuition fees available for students that meet certain criteria, such as those aged 19-23 who enrol on their first full Level 3 course. See our website which has more information on this topic.
25th September, 12th October, 23rd November 2026
18th January, 14th June
To
YEAR 10 TASTER DAYS
8th & 9th July 2024
To