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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to attend Birchwood College?
    Full time courses are free of charge for students aged between 16 -19 (there may be exceptions if you are a student applying from overseas). However, you must expect some costs associated with the courses for which you enrol. For example, these can include purchasing textbooks, stationery and/or uniforms.
  • How long will I have to wait for an interview?
    Your application will be reviewed as quickly as possible and interviews will be held in the Spring term.
  • Where do I get an application form from?
    Click here or you can collect one from Birchwood College Reception. You can also contact us on 01925 853500 and we will post one to your home.
  • What do I do when I get my Key Stage 4 results?
    As soon as you get your results you will need to come to the college and attend an interview with a senior member of staff to finalise your courses and to enrol at the college. An appointment for this will be given to you before to results day.
  • What happens if I haven’t met the conditions of my offer?
    First of all...don’t worry! Come to college and speak to designated staff who can advise you about your options.
  • What level of course should I do?
    Our courses are organised into different levels: Level 3: Advanced (grade A*-C students) Level 2 Programme - for those students who may to gain further qualifications before starting a Level 3 programme or to enable them to move on to further vocational type training, including apprenticeships. The course you choose will depend on your exam results. When choosing which course you want to study, look at the course entry requirements along with whether you prefer academic, practical or hands on learning.
  • Will I have an interview?
    Yes. All students who apply to Birchwood College must attend an interview. If you cannot attend your interview on the date and time given, you must let us know at College Reception or contact us on 01925 853500 to make a new appointment.
  • When do I start college?
    A letter will be sent to you over summer containing your start date and time. This date will be in September 2018.
  • What is the 16-19 Bursary Fund?
    The 16-19 Bursary Fund is a scheme intended to help the most vulnerable 16-19 year olds in full-time education. The scheme is made up of two parts: a payment of £1,200 to the most vulnerable young people; and a discretionary fund. For more information about this or an application , please contact us at Birchwood College.
  • What happens at my interview?
    This is a chance to find out more about you and why you have applied for your chosen courses. It is also an opportunity for you to meet us and ask any questions you may have about the college or the courses. At the end of your interview you will be told whether you are being given an offer of a place, which will be confirmed in writing shortly afterwards. You will need this when you enrol on your course in September.
  • Why is my school asked to provide a reference about me?
    What your school says about you will help us make sure you have applied for the right course.
  • Why are my predicted results so important?
    These will determine what level of course you should be applying for and will be discussed at your interview prior to being made an offer.
  • What ‘offer’ will be made?
    Most of our offers are conditional on exam results. In some cases offers can be made based on good references, evidence of good attendance and that you have made good progress so far in your education.
  • Can I visit Birchwood College before applying?
    The college holds a series of open days each year that include tours, presentations from subject departments and a chance to meet staff on a one-to-one basis to discuss course and qualification options.
  • When should I apply?
    Many of our courses will fill up quickly so students are advised to apply early in the academic year.
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