Before you apply

Are you overwhelmed by all the study options after your GCSEs? Do you know what you want to do as a career in the future, but are not sure how to get there? Don't worry, feeling uncertain about all the possibilities is natural.

Here are some tips to help you make the best choice for you. Even if you're confident and ready to apply, it’s always best to reflect on your choice before you send us your final application.

Deciding on your course subject:

• Consider your hobbies and favourite subjects at school – is there anything you're particularly passionate about, or anything you really dislike?
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses – what are you good at? Are you creative or logical? Do you prefer being hands-on or learning that's more theory based? Are there any subjects you are doing well in at school?
• Make a list of pros and cons for each course – this could include anything from facilities and trips to future earning potential.
• What are your future plans – do you want to study at university, undertake an apprenticeship or go straight into industry?
• If you’re still not sure it’s a good idea to pick something that really interests you and keeps your options open.

Resources:

More than one path to success

Some of our top tips to finding your way through education to employment from our prospectus.

Advice and Guidance Leaflet

A useful leaflet to download for general careers advice and guidance for prospective and current GC students.

External Careers Information

A collection of resources containing useful information about what your options are for the future.

Deciding on your course level:

• Use your predicted grades and mock exam results as a guide.
• Check the minimum entry requirements for the course you want to apply for.
• What level of education are you studying at or have completed?

Resources:

Levels Explained

More information about levels from our prospectus.

Level Chart

A comparison chart to show how different qualification types match up.

Deciding on your campus:

• Is your course choice only offered at a specific campus?
• Are you able to travel to and from the campus easily - do you need financial support to get to and from college?
• Do you know what facilities are available at each campus?
• Check out public transport websites to plan your journey to and from college.

Resources:

Campus Information

A section of our website dedicated to each campus including virtual tours, videos, address and parking details.

Campus Life

A few pages from our prospectus that tell you about the facilities available at each campus.

Talk it out

Remember, it’s a really good idea to talk to the people who know you best, such as your parents/guardians, family and friends. They may be able to give you some advice and direction about your future options.

If you're still at school/college your teachers, tutors and careers advisers can also provide support with your decision.

Here for you

No question is too big or too small when it comes to your future - we are here to help you access the information and support you need to make the next positive step forwards in your life.