What will my timetable be like?
Courses are grouped together, so that you may find
you have whole or half days when you may continue
with coursework, undertake work experience or take
additional qualifications such as top up GCSE English
and Maths.
What can I do when I’m not
in a lesson?
At Leek College, the Learning Resource Centre is open
into the evening three days each week. You can also
meet friends and relax in the College Coffee Shop, our
student social area, or in the town. Please make sure you
use the pedestrian crossing on Stockwell Street if you
leave the Campus.
How many students are there
in each class?
Typical class sizes are around 18, and we take a lot of
care to level out the size of groups to avoid any classes
being too large or small.
How does work compare with the
work I’m used to at school?
If you are taking an advanced level course you’ll find that
you are being asked to think harder about the causes
behind whatever you’re studying and about the effects
as well, and you will need to answer the question in more
depth than that at GCSE. You will find that your tutors are
used to helping you to achieve this, and your induction
into each subject will focus on these issues. BTEC Level
2 and vocational courses will offer an alternative style of
work to GCSEs
In vocational subjects, you learn to apply new knowledge
and skills to real situations set in the specific workplace.
At advanced level, you will need to show that you have
developed the ability to analyse, can use your knowledge
to generate new ideas, and that you can effectively
evaluate a range of solutions to real problems.
How will I know how well (or not)
my work is going?
Your tutors will be giving you a lot of work outside
your lessons! This is fed back to you continuously with
grades and comments. There are subject reviews of your
progress several times during your course for you and
your parents. Students taking AS will take examinations
during the first year. On vocational courses, you will have
opportunities to take external tests twice a year and
you will clearly see your progress as you complete
unit coursework.
Can I use a computer when
I need one?
Leek College is very well resourced ensuring you have
access to a range of computing equipment.
What about sport and other activities?
We work to promote healthy living and provide lots
of opportunities, but you only become involved if you
choose to - it is not compulsory.
What about contact with parents?
If we have any concern about your progress or welfare,
your Learning Guidance Advisor will talk to you first to
help you work out a plan of action. You’ll be encouraged
to involve your parents to help you solve any problems.
Parents have a vital role to play in supporting you
through your studies.
Your Learning Guidance Advisor or tutor will always
endeavour to tell you if it is necessary to contact
your parents.
What happens if I want to talk
confidentially about something?
You can talk to your Learning Guidance Advisor, saying
that you want the matter to be confidential. Please be
aware that all staff have a duty to protect you from harm
if you are under 19. If you would rather discuss issues
with someone else, you can talk to any member of
staff you feel is appropriate. A counsellor will be made
available if needed.
What happens if I’m not happy
with some part of my course or
college life?
Talk! It is important that everyone concerned with your
welfare and success knows about any problems.
What happens if I need help
with my course?
Ask! Your Learning Guidance Advisor or tutor will talk to
you about what you need.