F.A.Q
Can I continue to get child benefit?
The parent or carer of any student under 18 can continue to receive child benefit whilst the student remains in full-time education.
What will students need to buy for their course?
This varies, depending on the students chosen course. Some courses require students to have protective clothing, safety boots and/or a uniform (such as a sports kit). Students will often be involved in trips or residential visits during their course, and these often endure a cost. Writing materials (pens, papers, folders etc) will also be required for all courses. (Exact details of items required will be given at interview).
How much coursework/homework will by child have to do?
This varies between courses, but all students will have to complete some homework. Assignments and coursework is designed to meet a number of criteria, and the level of input from the student will reflect on their grade. Students should plan ahead when coursework is given and spread their workload evenly.
Will I receive written reports on my son/daughter?
For some courses written reports are provided to parents/carers on a regular basis, for others they are not. Verbal commmunication is often made between tutors and parents/carers, especially if a problem arises. Parents are advised to contact course tutors if they wish to receive an individual progress update on their child.
What do I do if I am concerned about my child's progress?
Contact should be made to the child's course tutor in the first instance. Alternatively you can ask to speak to their course Programme Area Manager (PAM).
Do I need to inform the college if my son/daughter is going to be absent?
Students should phone the college themselves each day they are absent, especially if they receive EMA, as failure to do so will result in lost payment. If the student is unable to contact the college, the parent/carer should do so instead.
Will I be informed if my child misses classes?
We do not insist that tutors inform parents about every absence, but if a student is absent for several days, or on a regular basis, parents/carers will be informed.
What do I do if I think my son/daughter is being bullied?
Encourage your son/daughter to discuss the problem with you or their tutor, as the more details about the matter the better. If they are unwilling or you believe there is an issue please contact the college safeguarding officer on 01603 731224. Emails can be sent to studentvoice@easton.ac.uk and bullying matters will be dealt with by the safeguarding officer. The college also has a counciler who students can arrange to speak with on a variety of matters, including bullying.
What learning support is available to my child?
One of the college's strengths is the support we offer too all students. Learner mentors and support staff offer a variety of different support tailored to suit individual needs. Support issues will be discussed at interview and an initial support plan devised.
Information Session
The college provides events throughout the year where parents/carers and the prospective students can look around, and speak to staff; they are a great way to find out more before applying.
Upcoming Information Sessions
No Need To Book - Just Turn Up.
Open Day
The college holds an annual Open Day where activities are put on for visitors to participate in and enjoy. There is a charge of £6 per car, but these funds go to charities chosen by the college's students. The Open Day allows visitors to see the college's facilities and discover the wide range of subjects on offer.
Enrolment Process
Once a student has sent us an application, they will receive a notification letter saying that we are processing the form.
An interview will be arranged within 4 weeks between the student, parent/carer (if they wish to attend) and the course tutor; suitabliltiy of the course and support requirements are just two of the areas discussed at the interview, and students and parents can ask as many questions as they like to the course tutor. An offer of conditional or unconditional will be given to the student (conditional is usually offered if the student is awaiting exam results). Again, the student will recieve a letter to confirm this. If a student has been given a conditional offer, they will need to inform the college of their results as soon as possible.
