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Hello and welcome. I'm Fran, a Careers Adviser based at City College Plymouth. I can be found in Career Point and I can provide support for Level 3 learners exploring Higher Education options.
You may see me running workshops before January focusing on UCAS and Personal statement planning.
I have connections with Next Steps South West who can offer talks on "student life", Post 18 options, student budgeting and more.
Post 18 Options
We understand that choosing how and where to study higher education can feel a little daunting.
It can help to break it down into smaller considerations that can guide you towards the best path, rather than facing it as one big decision.
This blog created by the Kent & Medway Progression Federation talks you through some things to consider.
Student Finance
Have you applied for student finance? If you plan to begin a full time undergraduate (Level 4+) course from September 2024 then it is likely that you will need to apply for student finance to cover your course cost (tuition fee). The window for applications opened in early March. More information can be found on Student Finance England 24-25
Key messages from Student Finance England
The quickest and easiest way to apply is online at https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/apply
Students do not need a confirmed place at university or college to apply
Apply with your preferred choice, you can change details later if needed
Read, understand and agree to the loan Terms and Conditions
COST OF LIVING AS A HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENT
Here are some ideas which will help you prepare for life as a Uni student!
Planning ahead pays dividends! Work through Student money manual for a comprehensive guide to student living.
Martin Lewis shares hints and tips on his website Money Saving Expert , including this blog on the different student bank accounts.
Save the student is another great website - I use the rent calculator as a simple and easy to use budgeting tool.
Turn2us website is great tool for searching for grants (for everyone and not just HE student!).
Did you know that most undergraduate students work alongside their studies? However most Higher Education providers recommend no more than 15 hours a week of paid employment during term time. Often Universities will offer employment opportunities (e.g. student ambassador, bar work etc). Unis also offer employment related advice (via there careers services, student service teams and students' unions). Click here for more information on balancing work and study provided by UCAS.
In the same way as the college, all HE providers will have a range of services which will support their students. Ask what sort of things are provided when you are attending an applicant day, or when enrolling. This is useful knowledge to have either for yourself, or so you can support your fellow students.
Next Steps South West are regularly updating their website and social media pages with information compiled from the team and partners (including City College Plymouth). Here is their guide to student finance.
WHAT IS A STUDENTS' UNION?
Starting university is effectively starting a new chapter of your life, and this can be daunting – for many, starting university means moving away from home, adjusting to a new environment and making new friends. If this has crossed your mind, you are not alone.
Students' Unions (occasionally known as a Students' Guild) exist to make all aspects of your university experience as amazing as possible. Including social, sporting and cultural activities, and academic support and representation.
Next Steps South West
Next Steps South West
Next Steps South West helps young people navigate their own personal journey to higher education.
Please visit the NSSW website for useful links including student stories, qualification chart and recommended websites.
INFORMATION, ADVICE & GUIDANCE
Career Point provides a range of support for students who are considering applying to study at a university or other higher education provider. Their offer includes 1 to 1 sessions with a qualified Career Adviser and more detailed UCAS support.
Please contact us by email: careers@cityplym.ac.uk - and remember to include your phone number if you would like us to call you.
Please contact us by email: careers@cityplym.ac.uk - and remember to include your phone number if you would like us to call you.
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