Parents Page

College is different from school. It offers more freedom and the chance to grow as an individual. Most students thrive in the more informal, adult atmosphere. However some need extra support and guidance.

If you’re worried about your child making the transition from school to college, don’t be! We’ll closely monitor their progress and make sure they receive all the encouragement and support they need to achieve their potential.

For full-time 16-18 year old learners, there is a web based resource showing how your son/daughter is doing on his/her course.  This is called ‘ProMonitor’ and details attendance and punctuality as well as a mark book record summarising learner performance.  We are dedicated to ensuring that your son/daughter continues to develop, improve and succeed with us. We welcome your interest and support in this.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should my son/daughter apply?

As soon as possible - we accept applications throughout the year.

How should they apply?

There are a number of ways to apply

• Online – find the course to apply for.  Scroll to the bottom of the page where there will be a link - 'Apply Online', click on the link and complete the application form.  Once complete click ‘Apply’

• Complete the application form in the back of the full-time prospectus and return to Student Services, South Tyneside College, FREEPOST NT 242, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE34 6BR

• Download the application form, complete and return to Student Services, South Tyneside College, FREEPOST NT 242, South Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE34 6BR

• Contact Student Services on 0191 427 3900, email: info@stc.ac.uk or complete the enquiry form and request a form to be posted to you

• Call into Student Services in person and complete an application form

The application form asks for results but my son/daughter has not taken their exams yet.

Only predicated grades need to be provided.  It’s not necessary to wait until they have taken their final exams.

My son/daughter wants to apply for three courses because they have not decided yet.  Does that mean they will have to complete three application forms?

No we only need one application for any number of courses applied for.

My son/daughter has already sent their application form in when will they hear from you?

An acknowledgement letter will be sent out to say we have received it. Then the appropriate department will send out an invitation to attend an interview.

Is the interview formal as my son/daughter is a bit concerned about it?

The interview is an informal chat with a tutor who teaches the subject they are interested in to find out a little bit about them and to tell them what the course is all about.  There is nothing at all to worry about.

What if he/she changes their mind about the course they have applied for?

Changes to applications can be made - just contact us.  If they have already had an interview another one will be made with an appropriate member of staff.

When will he/she enrol?

Enrolment can take place at anytime but following GCSE results another interview date will be made to finalise their chosen course of study and at that time they will receive their student agreement and identity badge.

When does College start?

Most courses will start on the first of September. We will welcome your son/daughter to the College and their first few days will be an induction period so that they can familiarise themselves with their new surroundings, make new friends and find out all about the facilities available to them.

What support will they receive?

• Personal Learning Coach (PLC)
  We’ll provide your son / daughter with a Personal Learning Coach who will personally support them during their time with us.
• ProMonitor
  Tutorial support will use ProMonitor, a web based resource that can be accessed 24/7, either in college or at home.  ProMonitor allows an individual learning plan to be created, recording hopes, fears, strengths and areas to be developed.
• Learning Mentors
  Learning Mentors are available to give extra support and encouragement to your son / daughter should they require it.
• Parental Contact
  You will be regularly kept informed of the progress of your son / daughter. Reports are frequently sent and our parent evenings help you to find out how they are progressing.  You can also request a private meeting with a tutor at any time throughout the academic year.