Frequently Asked Questions

Students have asked...

Q. But what if I don't know what I really want to do?
A. That’s OK. Not everyone does. People have to experience things before they can make up their mind. You get a proper induction to your course so you know what it's going to be like. You can also go and see someone about your career options whenever you like. You can do work experience as well if you wish.

Q. What’s the social life like?
A. Coming to College gives you lots of opportunities to make new friends. People come from all over to study here. There are regular gigs, plays, exhibitions and special events at all our Campuses. You can hook up with people over the Internet and you might even have the opportunity to go abroad as part of your course.

Q. I’m not going to get treated like a kid, am I?
A. College life is much more like the ‘real world’. Tutors talk to you like adults - and quite rightly expect you to behave that way too! Just walking around College feels very different to being at school. Your views are also represented on the Student Council. Students make things happen at Wakefield College.

Q. What if I've got problems that affect my work?
A. We know that things aren't always easy - you might have a part-time job, things going on at home, boyfriend or girlfriend hassles, whatever. But there's always help on hand here, people to help you overcome your difficulties - student counsellors, financial advisors. It's all there to help your time in College go by as smoothly as possible.

Parents and Carers have asked...

Q. Why should we send our son or daughter to Wakefield College when they do the same course just down the road from us?
A. We are the major provider of post-16 education in the District and our results are consistently above the national average.

Q. Is there a job at the end of their course?
A. Wakefield College students not only gain additional qualifications wanted by employers and by universities, they also come out with useful practical skills. Many of our courses also offer real work experience. We share your concerns about your son's or daughter's future, so we aim to give them the competence and confidence to compete not only locally, but nationally and internationally for work.

Q. How will I cope financially?
A. All our full time courses for young people (16- 19) are FREE. There is a range of options which may help ease the financial strain of supporting a student through College. If you're on a low income, Income Support, or benefit of any kind you may be eligible for assistance. Call Financial Support Service on 01924 789517 to find out.

Q. How can I be sure my son or daughter is actually at College and doing what they're supposed to be doing?
A. Attendance and punctuality are monitored and our system of Personal and Course Tutors picks up on any student causing concern in these areas. Staff work on a one to one basis with students to set personal targets and goals. You can also find out about any aspect of their College work by attending the regular parents' evenings, or you can phone any tutor for a chat about their progress. We're accountable to you!