Considering your next move in education and career development at Northern Regional College? Here are some helpful questions and answers about what to expect, including information on travel passes, free meals and the College’s uniform policy.
Northern Regional College has courses across four academic departments: Science, Inclusion, Hair & Beauty; Health, Sport & Care; Advanced Technologies; and Creative, Computing & Professional Industries.
We constantly review and develop our curriculum to ensure that all courses meet the needs of industry and economy demands. No matter what subject or qualification you choose, your course will be geared towards helping you to enhance your career prospects. Search online today and find the right course for you.
With modern workspaces, cutting-edge facilities, and industry-standard teaching, our immersive environment bridges theory and practice, equipping learners with real-world skills and experience.
With modern workspaces, cutting-edge facilities, and industry-standard teaching, our immersive environment bridges theory and practice, equipping learners with real-world skills and experience.
Considering your next move in education and career development at Northern Regional College? Here are some helpful questions and answers about what to expect, including information on travel passes, free meals and the College’s uniform policy.
A common theory is that the only way to get to university or to secure a good job is to study A Levels. This is incorrect! An alternative option open to students is Level 3 BTEC Extended Diplomas. These courses are equivalent to three A Levels and offer the same opportunity to progress to university, 98% of UK universities accepted students with BTEC qualifications. (Pearson Nov 2023) The main difference between A Levels and BTECs are:
BTECs are tailored to specific industry needs, they provide you with the exact skills necessary to either progress directly into employment or study at a higher level within that area.
With BTECs you study one subject area comprising of 16-18 modules around that topic for the duration of the course.
BTECs are largely assessed by assignments and practical projects whereas A Levels are 100% exams.
To help provide a more mature and relaxed environment you are not required to wear a uniform.
Each course timetable varies, however you are typically timetabled for four days between Monday to Friday starting at 9.00 am. Some courses finish at 5.00 pm. Our timetable approach is not rigid to encourage self-learning and self-motivation which will help you prepare progress to university.
Education Maintenance Allowance, commonly referred to as EMA, is a financial grant for those aged between 16 and 19 years of age (of commencing academic year) and enrolled on a Further Education course, to help with the costs of continuing education. This is means tested and is £30 per week paid fortnightly.
If you are aged 18 or younger on 1 July (of commencing academic year) and on a full-time Further Education course you can apply for a travel pass. This is not means tested. This pass will enable you to travel to and from the College without charge. Other criteria and age restrictions may apply. All applications must be submitted online through the EA website. Please read eligibility criteria carefully prior to completion of the form. All applications must be submitted through the EA website.
Applicants/students on the Training for Success programmes are not eligible for a travel pass.
If you are aged 18 or under on 31 July (of commencing academic year) and have a parent in receipt of certain benefits you may be eligible for free meals. You will receive meal tickets at the start of each week that can be exchanged for food and drink in the College canteen.
For detailed information on College life, safeguarding and student support, refer to our Student Handbook.
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