Our Year 10 students welcomed representatives from Preston College for a series of informative and engaging sessions designed to help them prepare for the transition to post-16 education. The sessions, delivered to individual forms, provided students with a detailed look at what college life is really like.

The visit comes at a crucial time as our students begin to seriously consider their next steps after completing their GCSEs.

Life Beyond School: The College Experience

Preston College staff offered a comprehensive overview, covering several key areas of interest for our Year 10s:

  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Students were given a virtual tour of the campus, showcasing the industry-standard facilities available. This included specialist areas like functional science laboratories, performance studios, hair and beauty salons, and construction and engineering workshops.
  • A Day in the Life: The presentation highlighted the differences between a college day and a school day. Key changes include a more flexible timetable, longer study periods, and a greater expectation of independent learning and self-management.
  • Understanding Qualifications: A clear breakdown of the types of qualifications on offer was provided, including T-Levels (technical and professional qualifications equivalent to three A-Levels), BTECs, and other vocational routes. This helped students understand the different pathways available, which are often more career-focused than traditional school subjects.

Next Steps: Taster Days and Open Events

  1. Organised Taster Day Trips: Year 10 students will have the opportunity to visit a range of local colleges in person during the summer term. These organised school trips will allow students to attend sample lessons and experience the atmosphere first-hand.
  2. College Open Days: We strongly encourage all Year 10 students and their parents/carers to attend college Open Days. These events are usually held in the evenings or on weekends and provide an excellent, informal opportunity to tour the facilities, meet tutors, and ask detailed questions about courses.