Preparing for college

There are many ways in which we can help you feel welcome and ready to start College and we also offer information and reassurance for parents/ carers.

The College works closely with schools and their leavers during their final year at school, so look out for opportunities to take part.

– Many schools hold ‘Parents and Leavers’ evenings for young people with additional learning needs and their families. This is a good time to meet College staff to have an informal chat about coming to College and to find out about support arrangements.

– School visits to College help pupils see what it’s like on campus.

– Individual visits and parents’/carers’ visits can also be easily arranged. Speak with the ALNCo at school or get in touch with us directly.

– Additional Learning Support (ALS) staff are around on College Open Days. You don’t need an appointment – just stop by and introduce yourself.

– Schools or Careers Wales Advisors let College know about school leavers with additional learning needs. It is helpful if someone from the College ALS team attends school reviews for pupils with additional learning needs during their last year of school (or earlier if the young person has more complex needs). Double check with school that College have been invited.

– Let us know about your disability or additional learning needs when filling in the College application form. This is highlighted to the ALS team.

– Transition Events in College provide an opportunity for some young people to spend more time in College and take part in activities to help make the move from school to college easier. These take place during the academic year. Summer School days at the end of the year and other Keeping in Touch activities during the summer period before starting College, are also offered to those young people that will benefit from an enhanced transition. 

– The ALS team are keen that parents/ carers are involved and welcome the opportunity to talk with you about support arrangements.