Higher Education & Careers
A high priority is given to advising students about the options open to them when they move on from College. We are proud of the links that we have forged with local employers and Higher Education establishments throughout the country and appreciate the contribution they make to our careers programme and the development of employability skills.
College Careers Conferences
Moving On Day has become an important annual event in the College with admissions tutors, representatives from industry and commerce, and former students speaking to current students, sharing experiences and offering advice. In the spring we take first year students to the UCAS Fair at a local University whilst students seeking employment are encouraged to visit the National Careers Exhibitions held in London. Students are also encouraged to take full advantage of the open days held by universities and professional bodies which are becoming a vital part of the application process.
Oxbridge
Admissions Tutors from Oxford and Cambridge visit the College each Spring to speak to first year students who want to find out more about making an application. The College provides works closely with both universities on admissions procedures - and there are strong links with individual colleges who increasingly welcome applications from The Sixth Form College Farnborough students. Currently about 100 students from the College are studying at Oxford and Cambridge Universities.
There was a presentation in September 2011 offering advice and guidance attended by 115 students.
Local Universities
Strong links with local universities, and with Farnborough College of Technology, are in place to assist students who wish to continue their studies in this area. The Art department works particularly closely with the University for the Creative Arts (Farnham campus) to facilitate a smooth progression to the next level of education, whether it be the Foundation Art course or degree level studies.
Applying to University
All UCAS applications are now made on-line, which speeds up the process significantly. Students are supported in selecting their universities and in writing their personal statements. Specialist programmes, including mock interviews, are available for students who will face interviews and tests as part of the selection process, such as potential medical students and Oxbridge applicants.
Work Related Learning
The Mentoring scheme provides individual support from someone who already works in a profession or industry that a student may be interested in joining. Among our more famous mentors is Gerald Howarth MP, who is a strong supporter of the College. Work experience is a pre-requisite for entry to some degree courses but it can also strengthen every curriculum vitae. For this reason, we encourage and support students to seek relevant placements during their time at the College. Work shadowing, extended placements, volunteering, and placements are offered to all our students. Students in Design Technology and the Sciences are offered the chance to participate in industry sponsored competitions.
Careers Guidance
A substantial part of the tutorial programme is dedicated to careers education so that students are made aware of the excellent facilities available. Computer packages and the Internet are used increasingly as they offer up-to-date material. In the dedicated Careers Suite, help is available for students to find the information they need and to arrange interviews with a Careers Adviser.
