Prospectus
Two young men relaxing and laughing together on sofas in a communal lounge area

14-16 School
Educated Students

School Release Programme: Progression & Support

We offer Key Stage 4 students the opportunity to explore their interests, develop their skills and gain experience through a range of inspiring vocational and technical programmes. All courses lead to an accredited Level 1 qualification, supporting clear post-16 progression.

Suitable for students of all abilities, the School Release Programme can help learners progress to higher-level vocational or technical qualifications, apprenticeships or employment.

Places are subject to the student’s school agreeing to release them for one day per week, pay the applicable fee and provide any required additional support. All correspondence will be sent to the school’s designated lead or contact.

School Link application process 

The School Link application form is sent to school contacts in February each year. All schools receive it on the same date to ensure fairness. It is also shared with Local Authority teams. Families and schools should not apply for School Link places through the Plumpton website.

The application window is open for four weeks. During this time, every application, student statement and supporting document, including EHCPs, student passports and references, will be reviewed. Schools will be informed whether the young person will be invited to an online interview.

An interview does not guarantee a place. If applications are submitted after the window closes, students may be added to a waiting list, depending on demand.

The interview includes:

  • A presentation from Plumpton staff
  • Standard interview questions (not designed to catch the student out)
  • An opportunity for the student to ask questions

We ask all interviewees to be honest so we can best support them if they gain a place.

Safeguarding and health and safety are central to all placement decisions. The College reserves the right to decline an application based on the information provided by the school.

14-16 School Link Courses

Explore our courses to find the right study options for you at Plumpton.

Frequently Asked Questions

14–16 Schools Link at Plumpton: Your Questions Answered

There is no uniform at Plumpton College but students must bring the correct PPE for their studies: 14-16 PPE kit list.docx

In response to the government’s guidance on mobile phone use in schools for school-aged students, the college has introduced an updated mobile phone policy for our 14–16 students. This approach has been adapted to give our students appropriate independence with their devices, while also reducing the distractions that mobile phones can cause during lessons.  

Students must not use mobile phones during lesson time unless directed to do so as part of a learning activity. Phones must be out of sight and on silent during lessons

The day will run from 9am until 4pm with breaks between lessons and an hour for lunch. All EHE students attend one assembly per week and all 3 days students also attend an enrichment session. 

Find out more about our college bus services and view the latest bus timetables to help plan your journey.

View the College Bus Timetable →