College - Children, families and education

Further education colleges offer a range of courses to meet your needs and interests. These include A levels, other academic courses and vocational programmes.

To find out what courses are offered by each college it is best to look at the institution’s own website. Look for the ‘16-18’ or ‘courses’ section.

If you have a child who attends a special school in Devon, please look at the preparing for adulthood section of the SEND Local Offer. You can also find information on the Natspec website.

What this option could do for you

Gaining qualifications can give you more choice about your future. They show employers, colleges and universities that you have the skills and qualities needed to succeed and progress.

Getting qualifications can boost your confidence and can help you get a well-paid job.

Colleges offer lots of ways in which you can develop your skills, knowledge, and experience through taking part in the social life at college.

What you need to do now

Decide what and where you would like to study.

Make an application to the college. You may choose to attend an open day or evening which will give you the opportunity to have a look round and ask questions.

You will probably be asked to attend an interview which will give you the opportunity to ask further questions and explore your options.

If you need any extra help or advice

If you are still at school, your school must provide you with access to independent advice and guidance on all your post 16 options.

If you need more help or are not at school, the Post-16 Learning Participation Team provides advice and support to young people.

For further help and support, you can talk to an impartial adviser at the National Careers Service on 0800 100 900 or web-chat online at nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk.

Follow @NationalCareers on Twitter or on Facebook.

Support you could get if you choose this option

There may be financial support available, depending on your circumstances. Information can be found at GOV.UK – 16 to 19 Bursary Fund, and the college will be able to give you details of how it works.

There may be help available with travel costs. Full details of the Devon County Council Policy can be found at Post-16 transport.