Parents

Supporting your child through their career choices can be overwhelming

But we are here to help. Please find some quick links and FAQ below, or contact the careers team from our contact page – click here.

What is the difference between college and sixth form?

Colleges are typically stand-alone and offer a wide range of academic and vocational options from A Levels, to BTEC level 1 and entry level qualifications. They are generally larger and only have students who are aged 16+. They also usually allow students to come and go off site and wear their own clothes.

Sixth forms are usually part of a school and adhere to a school day, with bells, structured lesson and study timetables. They offer a smaller range of academic and vocational qualifications, and usually need at least Grade 4s and above. They often require students to wear specific clothing and stay on site during their week.

What is a T Level and A Level?

A T Level is a new qualification which has an unpaid work experience placement as part of the course. It is the equivalent of 3 A Levels, so you study ONE T Level.

An A Level is an academic qualification which is usually assessed via an exam at the end of the course. You take THREE A Levels.

My child is getting below a Grade 4 in English and Maths, what are their choices?

Although it is preferable for students to get a Grade 4 in these subjects, not all do. Next steps are dependent on whether they will get 4s in their other subjects or not and what they want to study. We can go into this in more detail with yourself and your child. Please book an appointment.

What is a bursary and how does it work?

Bursaries is a monetary award given to students by their provider to enable them to travel to school and for other associated costs. Bursaries are totally unique to each provider, so it’s worth contacting them directly. The amount awarded usually depends on household income. Telford College has more information here: Financial Support – Telford College

My child doesn’t know what they want to do… Help!

No problem, they won’t be the first or the last. Ask them to attend a drop-in session during school and we can help.