Answers to your questions

How can I find out more information about courses?

How can I be certain that my son/daughter will achieve their learning goals?

What about timetables and homework?

Does my son/daughter have to attend every day?

Does the College have a Code of Conduct?

Will I get feedback on my son’s/daughter’s progress?

Is careers advice available?

Do College students go on to university?

Will I have to pay for the course?

Is there any financial support to help with material or travels costs?

Can I continue to receive Child Benefit?

How can I find out more?

How can a find out more information about courses?
You can attend one of our Open Events throughout the year when you can meet our staff with your son or daughter, and ask questions about subject areas and College life. Our Advice & Guidance team has been awarded the Matrix Standard for its service so you can be assured that staff will be providing clear and impartial advice to each student.

How can I be certain that my son/daughter will achieve their learning goals?
All our full-time students complete an Individual Learning Plan which is reviewed regularly with their Personal Tutor. They will discuss your son’s/daughter’s overall progress and set short term and long-term goals. This Plan also allows us to identify any additional assistance the student requires.

What about timetables and homework?
Every student will receive a copy of their timetable at the start of the year. College hours are different from school and students will have time for private study when they are not in lessons. The assignments, coursework and additional reading requirements will vary from course to course, but it is important that students keep up with the work set and meet their deadlines.

Parents and carers can support students as they adapt to this new style of studying. Planning ahead is vital if students are to achieve a good balance of studying and social activities.

Does my son/daughter have to attend every day?
Students are expected to attend all sessions regularly and on time, although some students will not have lessons on every day. A register is taken at the start of every lesson and the course tutor will follow up absences or lateness. College expectations about attendance and punctuality are covered in the student’s induction, and we ask parents and carers to support us by ensuring that students do not miss their lessons.

If a student is unwell please telephone the College and let the tutor or faculty administrator know as soon as possible. Persistent absence will mean that the student is unable to succeed in their course and may lead to disciplinary procedures.

Does the College have a Code of Conduct?
All full-time students will be asked to sign the College Code of Conduct (pdf - requires Adobe Acrobat Reader). This sets out guidelines on student behaviour and conduct, both on their course and around the College. Students who break the Code of Conduct will be subject to College disciplinary procedures and you may need to be involved.

Will I get feedback on my son’s/daughter’s progress?
You will be invited to attend regular parents’ evenings to discuss their progress and all students will receive end-of-year reports including predicted grades if appropriate. You are also welcome to contact us via email or for an informal telephone chat. We encourage you to support your son or daughter throughout their time with us and we value your input and feedback.

Is careers advice available?
You can book an appointment with a careers adviser via Learner Services. Personal and subject tutors will also be able to help.

Do College students go on to university?
Last year many City of Bristol College students were accepted onto Degree course at universities across the UK, including Oxford. Students had taken a range of qualifications at College, from A Levels to BTEC National Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas. All of these are allocated UCAS points to enable university entry.

The College supports all students with UCAS applications and personal statements, and students have the opportunity to attend UCAS Fairs and University Open Days. In addition, here at City of Bristol College students can study over 40 university level courses in partnership with UWE, Bath Spa and Plymouth universities.

Will I have to pay for the course?
There are no tuition fees for students aged 16-18 who meet the standard residency criteria, although students may be required to buy specialist equipment or pay for activities and residential trips. However, some financial support may be available to help meet some of these costs.

Is there any financial support to help with material or travels costs?
Depending of individual circumstance there are support funds available to students to help with their costs. Visit our financial support section for more information.

Can I continue to receive Child Benefit?
You can still get Child Benefit after your child turns 16 if they're in certain types of education or training. For further information please check the HMRC website.

How can I find out more?
If you have any questions or comments, please call us on 0117 312 5000 or email enquiries@cityofbristol.ac.uk