School Leaver
FAQs

Find out more information below about the application process, college policies, college life, and student support offered to School Leaver students! 

Application Process FAQs

  • Why should I choose West Herts College?
    At West Herts College, we turn potential into reality. We offer a wide range of courses tailored to your passions and interests, valuable work experience, and skills development with strong industry links. Our dedicated staff provide both academic and personal support to ensure your success. Plus, our vibrant campus life is buzzing with activities and opportunities.

  • What types of courses are available?
    We offer a variety of courses including A Levels, vocational courses, T Levels, BTECs, apprenticeships, and foundation studies. Whether you're interested in business, engineering, healthcare, or the creative arts, we have something for everyone.

  • How can I apply to West Herts College?
     

    Our application process is simple:

    1. Explore our courses to find what matches your passion.
    2. Submit your online application.
    3. Attend an open day or Course Introduction Meeting to secure an offer.
    4. Receive your course offer by email.
    5. Prepare for enrolment in August.
    6. Start your journey with us!

  • What are the entry requirements for courses at West Herts College?
     

    • Level 3 Courses: Typically, students will need at least 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths. Each course has unique requirements, so it's important to check the specific entry criteria for your chosen course on our website.
    • Level 2 Courses: Most students will need 3 GCSEs at grades 9-3, including either English or Maths. Specific requirements may vary by course, so please refer to our website for detailed information.
    • Level 1 Courses: Students need to be working at or towards a Level 1 standard. This generally means you have sat GCSEs at school. If you're unsure about your level, we can conduct an initial assessment to determine the most suitable level of study for you.

    For the most accurate and detailed entry requirements, please check the specific criteria for your chosen course.

  • Can I apply for more than one course?
    Yes, if you are undecided, you can apply for more than one course and attend a Course Introduction Meeting for each. If you’re considering multiple options, then the best thing to do is to come to see us at an Open Day. At an Open Day you can see every course area in one visit, maximising your time and giving you everything you need to make an informed choice.

  • How do UCAS points work at West Herts College?
    UCAS points are awarded based on the qualifications you complete. For example, a Level 3 BTEC is equivalent to 3 A Levels and can add up to 168 UCAS points with a Distinction. For specific details on how many UCAS points your course can earn you, please use the UCAS grade calculator.

  • Are there taster days available?
    Yes, we offer taster sessions to give you a firsthand experience of your chosen course. These sessions are typically held in July and are exclusive to offer holders. They provide a great opportunity to meet your future classmates and tutors, and to get a feel for college life.

  • What are the benefits of attending an open day?
     

    Open days are the best way to experience West Herts College firsthand. You can tour our facilities, participate in course activities, meet current students and tutors, and get a feel for college life.

    Click here to visit our Events page for the upcoming Open Days. 

  • Are there opportunities for international students?
    Yes, we welcome international students and provide dedicated support to help them adjust to life in the UK, including visa guidance and language support. There are many factors to consider as an international student before applying, therefore we’d encourage you to contact our admissions team by email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. before you apply so that they can provide you with further advice. 

  • What is the process for enrolling in an apprenticeship?
    To enrol on an apprenticeship, you need to find an employer willing to hire you as an apprentice. Our admissions team can help you identify opportunities and guide you through the application process, once you’ve found an employer then head to our website and apply for your chosen apprenticeship pathway – we’ll then contact you and your employer to discuss the next steps.

    What if I want to study an apprenticeship but I don’t have an employer?

    An apprenticeship is a real job with training, therefore you must have an apprenticeship job in order to study an apprenticeship. If you need help finding an employer, then we’d suggest you visit the National Apprenticeship Service website to browse employers who are hiring. If you have an employer in mind, then you can contact them directly and ask them to speak with us for further information. 

  • What are the accommodation options for students?
    We do not offer on-campus accommodation. We can provide information and support to help you find suitable housing options nearby, contact our Student Support team onThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information. 

  • Can I study part-time?
    Students aged 16-18 will study full-time, this is between 3-4 days a week depending on your specific course. For students aged 19 or above, we offer part-time courses to accommodate those with other commitments. If you’re an adult looking for answers to questions about your options, click here to jump to our Adult study FAQs. 

College Policy FAQs

  • What is the college's attendance policy?
    Regular attendance is crucial for success. We expect students to attend all scheduled classes and notify us in case of absences. Persistent absenteeism may affect your progress and financial support. Your Head of Department will closely monitor your attendance and punctuality, we also send weekly updates to parents and carers to keep them informed of your attendance. 

  • What is the college's policy on mobile phones and electronic devices?
    Mobile phones and electronic devices should be used responsibly and not disrupt the learning environment. You can have your phone on you whilst at College, however please note that specific guidelines are provided by each course tutor as to what constitues acceptable use during your studies. There may be occassions where some lessons require use of mobile phones or applications, whereas most lessons will not and therefore phones should be on silent and in your bag during your lesson. 

  • How does the college promote diversity and inclusion?
    We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected. We celebrate diversity through various initiatives and support networks, we invite guest speakers and sector leaders in across the year to deliver presentations and masterclasses on diversity and inclusion. Our campuses are safe spaces for all our students, therefore we take great pride in creating a respectful environment and do not tolerate any form of discrimination. 

College Life FAQs

  • What is the GAP programme?
     GAP is a unique programme designed to enhance your employability through career coaching, employer encounters, certified skills, and personal development activities. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and the real world.

  • What opportunities are there for gaining work experience?
    We have strong partnerships with over 700 employers across various industries. These partnerships provide opportunities for work experience, masterclasses, workshops, and feedback on your work, ensuring you gain valuable insights and skills relevant to your chosen field.

  • How do I get to West Herts College?

    • Watford Campus: Located on Hempstead Road, our Watford campus is well-connected by public transport. You can reach us via several bus routes, national rail, or the London Underground. Watford Junction rail station is just a 15-minute walk from the campus.
    • Hemel Hempstead Campus: Situated in the town centre, our Hemel Hempstead campus is a five-minute walk from the bus station, which is serviced by buses from all directions

    Check out our detailed travel plan here.

  • Are there student discounts available?
     

    Yes, there are several student discounts available:

    Travel

    • Hertfordshire Saver Card: Offers half-price travel on buses throughout Hertfordshire.
    • Arriva Student Saver: Provides cost-effective and flexible travel options.
    • Carousel Buses: Offers half-price travel on buses throughout Hertfordshire.
    • Mullany’s Buses: Special discounts for West Herts College students with a valid ID card

    Shopping and leisure

    • Unidays
    • Student Beans
    • Totum

  • What is Student Life really like?
    Find out from our student ambassadors, they’ve got lots of videos that reveal what it’s really like to be a student at West Herts. Click here to find out more. 

  • What is the student-to-teacher ratio at West Herts College?
    This varies from course to course, some practical courses such as Hairdressing, Professional Cookery or Plumbing will have limited group numbers to match the workstations available. Whereas traditional classroom-based courses, such as Business, Computing or A Levels will range from 20 to 24 students. 

  • What kind of career support does the college offer?
    Our Careers Team provides one-on-one guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and access to job fairs and employer networks to help you plan your career path. They’re available right throughout your studies and invite many external providers to join us on campus so that you can grow your professional network and confidence. 

  • How can I get involved in student governance?
    Students can participate in our Student Ambassador scheme, which represents the student body and organises events and activities. You’ll find out more about the process once you enrol at College. We also hold elections annually for various positions, including Student Governors. Student Governors sit on the College’s Board of Governors and attend regular meetings to provide the voice of the student body at the most senior level of operations.

  • What facilities are available on campus?
    Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, workshops, studios, and social spaces. We continually invest in industry-standard equipment to ensure you have the best learning environment. 

  • What technology and resources are available to students?
    Students have access to modern IT facilities, including computer labs, free Wi-Fi, loaned laptops, industry-standard software for specific courses and much more. We also provide access to online learning platforms and digital resources to boost your flexible learning experience. 

  • How can I access my timetable and course materials?
    Timetable and course materials are accessible through the MyWHCG App and CANVAS, which you can log into with your student credentials. Students can access their student emails, the app and Canvas by clicking 'Login' on the homepage of the college website.

Student Support FAQs

  • How does West Herts College support student development?
    We provide extensive support through our Student Support teams, offering guidance on personal issues, financial advice, mental health and wellbeing support, and more. Our Learner Support Fund can help with travel, meals, and kit costs.

  • What financial support is available?
    We offer various financial support options, including the Learner Support Fund, which can assist with travel, meals, and kit costs. If your household income is less than £40,001, you could be eligible for additional support. For more details, click here to visit our financial support page.

  • Are there any bursaries available?
    Yes, we offer a range of bursaries to support students financially. Eligibility criteria and application details can be found on our website under the Learner Support Fund. We can help with Travel, Kit and Equipment, Meals, Childcare and much more.

  • How does the college support students with disabilities?
    We offer tailored support for students with disabilities, including assistive technology, learning support, and reasonable adjustments to ensure equal access to education. As part of the application process, we’ll ask more questions about you to find out about your specific support requirements. If you have an Educational Health Care Plan then we’ll also liaise with your local authority about your support needs. 

  • What should I do if I need to take a leave of absence?
    If you need to take a leave of absence, you should discuss your situation with your course tutor and the Student Support team to understand the implications and process. Education is vital to your future and therefore you should always prioritise your studies, we recognise that sometimes there are critical life events that mean you may not be able to attend college for a short period of time. You must communicate with your tutors beforehand to ensure that there are appropriate measures in place. 

ALS (Additional Learning Support) FAQs

  • What is Additional Learning Support?

    ALS (Additional Learning Support) is the team that supports students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This includes learning difficulties, disabilities, health conditions, or other needs that may affect learning or access to college life.

  • I’ve told the college I have a learning support need — what happens next?

    Once you have shared information about a support need on your application or at enrolment, the ALS team will review the information and contact you if further details are needed.

    If you have an EHCP, the ALS team will check that all relevant paperwork has been received. We will review whether we can meet your needs at college and share the outcome with the local authority.

    If you do not have an EHCP, but do have a learning need or disability, we can still offer support. Information may be requested from your previous school or college to help us build a clear picture of your needs.

    This information helps us create a support profile, which is shared with your curriculum team so appropriate adjustments can be made. Support is always based on individual need and course requirements.

  • What kind of support is available?
     

    Support is tailored and may include:

    • In‑class support from a Learning Advisor or Student Support staff
    • Exam access arrangements (where approved)
    • Assistive technology to support reading, writing, or organisation
    • Support with planning, organisation, and study skills
    • Access to quieter spaces or wellbeing support, where appropriate

    Support is reviewed regularly and may change as students develop confidence and independence. 

  • How do I access learning support?

    You can access ALS by:
    • Declaring your support needs during application or enrolment
    • Contacting the Additional Learning Support or Student Support teams

    A member of staff will discuss your needs with you and agree on reasonable, appropriate support. 

  • I have an EHCP — how will it be reviewed at college?
     

    If you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP):

    • Your EHCP will be discussed during transition and enrolment
    • Progress towards targets is monitored throughout the year
    • A formal Annual Review takes place at least once a year, in partnership with the local authority

    Reviews focus on progress, support needs, growing independence, and preparation for next steps 

  • I had exam arrangements at school - will these continue?

    Exam access arrangements do not automatically transfer to college, but they are carefully reviewed.

    • Please declare previous arrangements during application or enrolment
    • Evidence such as diagnostic reports will be requested from your former school
    • Eligibility is assessed in line with JCQ regulations
    • You will need to complete a JCQ8 declaration form to allow the College to share your access arrangements with the exam boards – this is a crucial step to ensuring you can access exam support. We will send you the declaration form to complete and support you through this process once you have enrolled.

    If approved, arrangements will be put in place and explained clearly to you. Staff will guide you through this process. 

  • I have dyslexia - what support is available?

    Support for students with dyslexia may include:

    • Assistive technology (such as text‑to‑speech or spell‑check tools)
    • Exam access arrangements, where appropriate
    • Advice on strategies to support learning and independence

    Support is personalised and linked to your course to ensure that we are providing the correct level of support to each student. 

  • Can I use assistive technology at college?

    Yes. The college provides access to a range of computer‑based assistive technology, including:

    • Text‑to‑speech software
    • Screen readers
    • Writing and proofreading tools

    Support staff can help you learn how to use the technology and arrange access on college systems or loan equipment, where appropriate. 

  • Can I use a reading pen?

    Reading pens may be available depending on assessed need.

    • You are welcome to use your own reading pen at college
    • Loan reading pens may be available following assessment

    This will be discussed as part of your support planning. 

  • I need personal care - can this be supported?

    Personal care support can be arranged where required.

    • Needs should be discussed during application
    • Support is planned in advance and agreed as part of a support plan or EHCP
    • Care is delivered by trained staff, with dignity and independence at the centre

    Early discussion helps ensure arrangements are in place before you start, if you have specific personal care requirements then please ensure that the team are aware. 

  • Are there quieter spaces I can use during the day?

    College can be busy, but students who need calmer spaces may access:

    • The Library (LRC)
    • Designated breakout areas
    • Student Support offices
    • Outdoor spaces

    Support staff can help you find suitable spaces on your campus. 

  • I experience anxiety or mental health difficulties - what support is available?

    We recognise that mental health and wellbeing are important for learning. Support may include:

    • One‑to‑one check‑ins with Student Support Advisors
    • Support with anxiety around assessments or attendance
    • Reasonable adjustments, where appropriate
    • Quiet or safe spaces during the college day
    • Signposting or referral to free counselling or external services

    Support is accessible to all who need it, and students are encouraged to seek help early if needs change. 

  • Will my tutors know about my support needs?

    Relevant tutors will be informed of agreed support needs so they can support learning effectively.

    • Only essential information is shared
    • Information is shared on a need‑to‑know basis

    Our aim is to support learning while respecting privacy. 

  • Will I automatically get one-to-one support?

    Our learning support team are allocated to individuals and groups to ensure that support is provided to students who need it. Not every student receives 1:1 support in-class, but any student who requires support we work with to ensure that appropriate measures are in place. 

  • Can parents or carers be involved once my child starts college?

    Absolutely, we believe that parent/carer engagement is critical to the success of our students. There are parent/carer meeting points across the year with course tutors to ensure that you are on track, we also have a college app which allows parents/carers to track progress and monitor attendance and engagement. If parents/carers wish to discuss learning support strategies, then they can contact the ALS team directly across the year