QUESTIONS ANSWERED
I’m hoping to come back to college in September. Will I have to pay course fees?
Tuition fees for Further Education qualification courses are not payable by anyone in receipt of a means tested benefit e.g. income support, JSA, Housing Benefit etc. Those not receiving such benefits but having a low income can apply to have their fees paid via the Learning Support Fund. Further details are available from Student Services.
At present I am receiving a range of benefits – will my entitlement be affected if I return to college?
Studying whilst receiving benefits is a complex issue. In some cases it is possible to study and carry on claiming benefits but care must be taken to ensure compliance with the rules. All individuals will have different circumstances and advice is available via Student Services.
I need materials and equipment for my course – is there any help available to pay for these?
Students on limited incomes or in receipt of benefits can apply to the Learning Support Fund for help with equipment, materials and examination costs. Awards are not automatic and the Learning Support Fund is cash limited.
Can I get a grant?
In some circumstances adult Further Education students can apply for financial support from the Adult Learning Grant. Student loans are not available to Further Education students, whereas University Level students can apply for finance through the Student Loan system. These loans are normally repayable. Find out more here.
Can I learn from home?
The College Group accepts that some students find it impossible to attend college. The reasons for this can by many and various. A range of distance learning courses is available where study is undertaken at home. Tutor support is usually available by telephone. Many vocational courses e.g. Motor Vehicle do not lend themselves to this mode of study. Further details are available from Customer Enquiries - 0845 2232567
Is there any help available to pay for childcare and/or transport costs?
The Learning Support Fund can help those who would find study difficult due to childcare or transport costs. Applications are considered taking individual financial circumstances into account. A set amount of money is allocated for this purpose and when it’s spent, no more applications will be considered.
I am totally confused and looking for a new career direction - what can you do to help me?
The Cornwall College Group has a range of services available to those wishing to change career and/or return to study. One-to-one guidance interviews are available which will result in the production of an action plan. A range of resources, both software and paper-based, is available to enable participants to explore the opportunities on offer. Find out more about choosing the right course or to make an appointment to speak to one of our adult guidance officers.
I would like to go to university but don’t have any qualifications - will I have to get some first?
Many adults decide late in life that they would like to enter university level study, but lack the necessary entry qualifications. The most usual pre-entry route is to enrol on one of our many Access to Higher Education courses. These courses last for one year and no formal entry qualifications are required. Upon successful completion participants will have the qualifications, confidence and skills necessary to study university level courses.
I have been out of education for a long time, settling in may be difficult - what support can you offer me?
Returning to education can be a challenging experience. Tutors and guidance staff will provide as much support as is necessary. The college group has a range of additional support services that can be accessed by students.
Do I have to attend full-time to gain a qualification?
As far as possible, qualifications can be gained in the way most appropriate to the individual. Many qualifications can be obtained by full or part-time attendance.
Evening study is much more convenient for me - can this be arranged?
A range of courses are available during the evenings. This provision is, however, not as extensive as the daytime provision.
If I attend college will I be with people of my own age, or will I be in a group with school leavers?
The college has students of all ages. Some courses are designated especially for adults, whilst other courses integrate young people with mature students. Responding to individual needs is important and every effort will be made to accommodate adult students on courses where they will feel comfortable.
I have just retired and would like to do some courses - am I too old?
The college is committed to the concept of Lifelong Learning. Widening Participation and Social Inclusion form an important part of our mission statement - "To provide learners with a high quality experience, celebrated
through academic and vocational achievement, personal development and
employability."
Students of all ages and backgrounds will be made most welcome.
