Stroud College values the contact we have with the parents and carers of our students and potential students and recognise the importance of the support provided by parents and carers. We believe that communication between tutors and parents / carers is vital and, therefore, encourage you to contact the college with any concerns or questions.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED:
How much will it cost?
The cost of studying will vary from course to course. There may be books, equipment or materials to be purchased. The tutor will explain what is required at interview and/or enrolment. If you need further information, call Customer Services 01453 761126.
Is there any help available with the costs of the course?
For some students, financial help is available. The section "Financial Support explains the support available and how students can apply. Any member of the Customer Services team will be able to provide advice. If you have any concerns, please contact us on 01453 761185
Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
Students aged 16, 17 or 18 between 1 September 2009 and 31 August 2010 may be eligible for an EMA. Application should be made as soon as possible on forms available from your School or the EMA helpline 0800 121 8989 or website www.direct.gov.uk/ema It is important that the letter confirming receipt of an EMA is brought to the EMA administrator when students enrol or as soon as possible.
How will I know about my son/daughter"s progress?
We will keep you informed through a Parents" evening and written reports. We want to make sure that students are successful and achieve their qualification. All students have a Course Tutor and Learning Mentor, who will guide and support them through their course. If the Course Tutor or Learning Mentor has any concerns about work or attendance, he/she will contact you. You are encouraged to contact them if you have concerns about your son/daughter"s progress.
What about attendance and absence?
Regular and punctual attendance is required and registration is taken at every lesson. Absences will be followed up by the Learning Mentor. Students must notify the College on the first day of absence and again on the fourth day in the case of continuing absence by telephone. The telephone number will be given to students during induction.
What sort of learning support is available?
We have a team of Study Support staff who provide help with maths, writing essays, reports and assignments. Students who have problems with studying, managing their time, revision or examination techniques can get help from the Study Support team. This service is free and available to all students. The Learning Mentor or a member of the Customer Services team can provide further advice or help in accessing support.
What help and support is available for students with disabilities and/or learning difficulties?
There is a wide range of support available. A member of the team will be happy to discuss individual needs with you if you wish. Further information is contained in the College"s Disability Information leaflet available from Reception or Customer Services, telephone 01453 761126.
Are students allowed to do part-time work?
Many students undertake paid part-time work while they are at College and benefit from the independence and experience they gain from it. However, there is evidence that where students work for more than 10 hours per week, their academic progress may suffer. You might like to discuss this issue with your son/daughter.
What about homework and coursework?
The amount of homework will vary from day to day and week to week and students are expected to plan their work. Many courses require students to complete coursework as part of their final assessment. You are strongly advised to check whether the course your son or daughter is taking has such a requirement and, if so, what the deadline for submission is.
Does the College have a Careers Advice service?
The College has been accredited for its Information, Advice and Guidance services and has a Matrix Quality Standard. The Careers Co-ordinator provides careers guidance by appointment and on a drop in basis. Students and members of the public can access this free, impartial service by contacting Customer Services 01453 761173.
Who can I talk to about support services?
The Customer Services team provide impartial support and advice to all students and can be contacted on 01453 761126.
Connexions Advice
A Connexions Personal Advisor comes regularly to the college. Please contact Customer Services to make an appointment or put a request in the Connexions mailbox in Reception.
College Closure
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