Learner Support

At Wakefield College give you as much help as we can to ensure that you achieve your goals. There are various forms of support available:-

Careers and Educational Guidance
Impartial guidance is available before you come to College, to help you to choose your course. Once you have enrolled on a course, you will have access to our comprehensive range of careers information and our Careers Advisers can help you to decide on your next step - whether it’s further study, training or employment. Telephone 01924 789113/301 or email careers@wakefield.ac.uk.

Connexions in College
You can contact advisers from the local Connexions Service at any of our campuses to access the full range of support available to students aged 14 – 19.

Counselling and Welfare Support
Counselling is available at all our campuses on a one-to-one basis.  Our counsellors are professionally qualified and work to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Code of Ethics and Practice. Welfare Support offers help and advice on issues such as bullying, homelessness and accommodation, childcare, benefits and sexual health.

The College Chaplaincy
The Chaplaincy is involved in organising events to mark special national and cultural occasions and events allowing learners to take time out for reflection. The Chaplain can also offer one-to-one support to help resolve issues around spirituality, life and you, and this is available by appointment to all learners regardless of their beliefs or religion, across all campuses.

Financial Support
We provide information and confidential advice on what student finance is available in Further and Higher Education, including student loans and possible help towards kits and equipment, residential, travel costs, meals and childcare costs, depending on your circumstances, age and course level. The Financial Support team is based at Wakefield Campus, but appointments can be made at Thornes Park and the skillsXchange. Telephone 01924 789304/549/517 or email student.finance@wakefield.ac.uk.

Transport
A Scholar’s Metro Pass is available to full-time students aged under 19 enabling you to travel in West Yorkshire for half fare – ask at one of the College receptions once you have enrolled on your course.  Students with disabilities should contact their Local Education Authorities for information about special transport.

Course Information
For information, advice and guidance about our full range of courses, please telephone 01924 789111 or email courseinfo@wakefield.ac.uk. Alternatively, call into the Course Information office at Thornes Park Campus during opening hours:-
9 am - 4.30 Monday to Thursday
9 am - 4 pm Friday

Your Personal Tutor
Every College student is assigned a Personal Tutor who is there to monitor your progress, support you and suggest other sources of help and advice. Group tutorials will help you to develop the study and employability skills you will need as you progress.

Learner Agreement
A document setting out, in general terms, what we expect from you during your programme of study. We ask you to sign this to show that you recognise the partnership between yourself and the College.

Safeguarding Children
Ensuring that the College is a safe and secure environment for children and vulnerable adults is extremely important to us and you can read our Safeguarding Policy on this website. A recent Ofsted inspection rated our efforts to make learners feel safe as “outstanding”.

The Student Intranet
A mine of information available from computers both on and off College sites, providing you have a suitable internet connection and system configuration. You will have your own personal College email account, and access to Blackboard, an online learning environment. This provides secure access to course materials, course announcements, discussion groups, assignment submissions and records of your grades.

Students’ Union
Represents your interests, both locally and nationally. The Union’s activities range from providing representatives on the Board of Governors to arranging social functions such as trips to Alton Towers.  By joining the Students’ Union you can qualify for cheaper travel and discounts from some high street shops!

Learning Centres
Each of our campuses has a well-equipped Learning Centre providing books, journals, multi-media IT facilities and access to computers and the internet, with staff on hand to help. E-resources can also be accessed at home through the student intranet.

Refectory Services
There is a refectory at each campus, offering a good selection of hot and cold meals, sandwiches, snacks and drinks.