Teachers/Parents/Carers

Reasons for choosing college

College can offer young poeple the opportunity to study more and develop practical and academic skills, both whilst at school, and once they leave. Vocational courses, for example, can help progress to higher education or towards getting a job and Foundation Apprenticeships and Modern Apprenticeships both include work-based training to gain real-life skills.

Apply in February for courses starting in August, and October for January start courses. Spaces are sometimes available after these dates - so it's still worth applying or getting in touch.

Finding out about college

College/School Information and Careers Evenings
Attend and speak to guidance and subject staff to gather up-to-date information.

These events are advertised in advance so keep the date and don’t miss out.
Ask questions
Look around the college to get ‘a feel’ for the campus
Talk to friends and family that have previously attended college.

Websites, Social Media and Apps
Up-to-date college information is usually published electronically and schools promote online exploration.

Find us on Facebook and Twitter!

Helping pick courses

Assisting in this process may involve talking about your own work background to discuss general work patterns, career changes, work ethics, promotion, etc. or, helping reflect on strengths, interests and careers aspirations.

Possible questions to assist:

Has the Young Person considered particular courses or career directions?
Has the Young Person considered volunteering?
Has the Young Person researched well enough to make an informed decision?
Has the Young Person relevant experience or spoken to people who work/study in the subject area?
Has the Young Person accessed any of the career guidance tools (e.g.: www.myworldofwork.co.uk - look in My DNA for a guide to personal strengths)

Application forms
Most application forms have an additional information/personal statement section or request a CV. Some things you may wish to consider:

Are the reasons for applying clearly explained?
Are relevant skills detailed?
Any relevant work experience?

Throughout school, pupils are assisted to complete a CV. Careers advisers and guidance teachers will have used a variety of online CV tools. It is usually worth having a master CV and job/course specific ones. If your child needs assistance, College guidance staff can assist.

Alternatives to college

Staying on at school
Benefits include:
Known teachers & the school environment
Established learning structures and processes
Good school home link already established
Guidance teacher has personal knowledge

Experiencing a Gap Year
Gap Years involve a break from their education to do something really special. Examples of Gap Year companies are listed below. Consider how this will add value or distinction to future academic or employment applications.
www.volunteerdundee.org.uk
www.volunteerangus.org.uk
www.realgap.co.uk
www.prospects.ac.uk/gap_year.htm

Seeking an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships help develop skills in a particular career area such as building, plumbing, engineering, etc., starting from a basic level. See below for more information:
www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk/our-services/modern-apprenticeships
www.apprenticeshipsinscotland.com
www.bconstructive.co.uk/?&gclid=CMTQr52g8bACFc8KtAodpWc77g

University
Universities offer a range of entry points for school leavers as well as open events, visits, summer schools and web information. Application is via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) (www.ucas.com).

Curriculum for Excellence

The guiding principles for the education system in Scotland is called Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) and involves all educational organisations, including colleges, working within the same national guidelines. Dundee and Angus College is committed to working with and within CfE.

In school, CfE will ensure your child receives a broad general education to S3 with options in the Senior Phase to go on to learn more, gain qualifications, develop skills, move on positively in work and life, including more time in colleges and other training organisations. Working closely with CfE and local schools, your child will continue to be supported at college to become a successful learner; confident individual; effective contributor and responsible citizen.

To find out more about Curriculum for Excellence, go to:
www.educationscotland.gov.uk/thecurriculum/whatiscurriculumforexcellence
www.curriculum-for-excellence.co.uk