Hello parents and carers!
This section is aimed at providing key information to help you to support your young people during their time at Barnsley College.
Whether your child is just starting their College journey, or they have been here for a while, we hope you will find lots of useful information on this page that should help to answer any questions you may have.
We were recognised as Outstanding at our Ofsted inspection in 2022 and named as a member of the Chartered Institute for Further Education (CIFE) in recognition of the exceptional education experience we provide for students. We are proud to be a leader in the Further Education sector and are always striving to continue transforming the lives of our students, staff and the local community through education.
We also offer a wide range of adult and part-time courses so if you fancy learning something new, or upskilling for career progression, we can help with that too! Take a look at our adult and part-time pages for lots more information. Or if you’re looking for a new work challenge, come and join our Outstanding team! See our latest job vacancies.
We’re always looking for employers to link with to give our students real world experience so if you have your own company, or work for an employer who would be willing to offer placement opportunities to our students, please get in touch.
If you have any further questions after checking out our FAQs, please get in touch on 01226 216 216 or email info@barnsley.ac.uk
For any help and guidance with Pro Portal please contact DTT@barnsley.ac.uk
An overview of options after Year 11
If you couldn’t join us for the Parent Information Evening, we have summarised the main options available to learners after Year 11 in the video below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Applying to College
How does my child apply to College?
We can offer support to help your child find their perfect course and apply to us. See the full application process.
Is there a deadline for applications?
There is no set deadline for further education applications, however, we recommend applying as early as possible in order to receive lots of helpful information prior to the start of the new academic year.
Please note that popular courses such as Electrical Installation are often put on waiting lists earlier in the cycle. We strongly encourage applicants to have a back up choice in these circumstances.
My child has applied and been given an interview, what does it entail?
After applying, students are invited in to College to attend an interview with tutor from their chosen subject(s). Interviews usually take place each Wednesday afternoon between 3.30pm and 4.30pm. We work closely with schools and they are aware of our interview process so there should be no problem in taking time out of classes. Interviews are nothing to worry about, it’s just chance to have an informal chat with the tutors, find out more about the course applied for and ask any questions.
What is the dress code for interviews?
Smart/casual or school uniform. Whilst it is important to look presentable and make a good first impression, we do not expect young people to purchase new clothing/business suits etc for their College interview.
Can we change the interview date?
If your child is unable to attend the interview, please contact our Admissions team on 01226 216 106 who will rearrange it for them.
What happens after the interview?
Our Admissions team will keep in contact with your child via text, emails and mail. We will let them know about the services available in College, news stories, financial support, revision tips and much more. Remember to tell us about any changes to contact details.
Taster sessions
Your child will be invited to a taster session for each course they have been given an offer to study. They will have the opportunity to meet the tutors, chat with our students and find out more about College life and future careers. These usually take place in May/June.
Can my child access any financial support at College?
Our Student Services team is on hand to offer support and advice about the Learner Support Fund and other financial support. You can contact the team on 01226 216 267.
Courses
What is a T Level?
T Levels are courses for 16- to 18-year-olds that are studied at the same level as doing A Levels. They are for young people who prefer a more technical education when they come to College, rather than following a purely academic pathway, or a work-based apprenticeship. They include an industry placement of at least 45 days in their chosen industry or occupation.
See what student James Lack and his mother Becky think of Digital T Levels and take a look at the video below, produced by Kindred for the Gatsby Creditable Foundation.
Video to watch below
What A Level subjects do you offer?
Take a look at our Sixth Form website for the full list.
How does my child apply for an apprenticeship?
Check out our step-by-step guide.
Enrolment
When is enrolment?
Enrolment starts from GCSE results day in August, you will be sent a personalised appointment for each subject area. Please try to avoid booking holidays during this time and the start of term/induction. This is an important period to make new friends, settle into the College environment and get a head start on your study programme.
Can my child change their mind about the course they want to study?
Certainly, we are here to help. Contact our friendly Admissions team on 01226 216106 or email interviews@barnsley.ac.uk. We recommended keeping a couple of options open. You will be invited to taster sessions, usually, after the Summer exams, and this will help your decision
What happens if my child doesn’t get the right grades?
Don’t panic! We have a place for them. Contact our Information Team on 01226 216 123 or email info@barnsley.ac.uk and they will advise you on what to do.
College life
What are the different College campuses?
We have many different campuses, specialising in different subject areas. Take a look at our campuses pages where you can watch video tours and see our amazing facilities.
How do we get to College?
Our campuses are easily accessible by public transport. We also offer a number of free buses to and from our Old Mill Lane campus and Wigfield Farm.
What support do you offer for students with learning difficulties or disabilities?
We have a dedicated Additional Learning Support (ALS) team who offer lots of support, find out more.
How do I report a safeguarding concern?
Contact our Safeguarding team on 01226 216 142. You can also see more information on our Safeguarding pages.
What are the term dates?
See our term dates.
Is there support available to start my own business?
Absolutely! OurFuturepreneurs scheme can provide you with support and mentoring as well as access to a grant of up to £250.
How does my child report an absence?
Your child will need to contact their department on the number they were given at enrolment. See further details.