Plumpton College provides an individualised vocational curriculum for students wanting to broaden their horizons from year ten onwards.
Specialist vocational facilities and industry-trained and experienced tutors provide an excellent entry point into their chosen vocation. Students are supported and able to develop the skills needed to succeed.
From their starting point, students will experience the highest standards for learning and be supported to progress onto further study up to degree level, apprenticeships and or work. Students benefit from smaller class sizes. Students must have turned 14 at the start of the academic year.
Electively Home Educated students
Parents of Year 10 and Year 11 pupils, who are home educating their children, can now apply for a vocational programme for their child. The usual schedule of study is three days a week. Students can choose vocational subjects that interest them alongside their core subjects in English, maths, PSHE and science.
Plumpton College will only consider home-educated students whose parents can confirm their child's home-educated status (e.g. a copy of the de-registration letter). They must have been out of education for at least six months. If accepted onto a course, the student's course will be funded by the Education Funding & Skills Agency. However, costs of course materials and travel (equipment, course handbooks, safety wear) are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. There are currently no bursaries for students on a 14-16 programme.
14 – 16 Schools
We offer Key Stage 4 students the opportunity to explore their interests, enhance their skills and introduce them to vocational-related learning through participation in several inspiring vocational/technical programmes. All courses deliver accredited qualifications designed to assist with a clear post-16 progression pathway.
These 14-16 courses are suitable for students of all abilities. The school release programme will put students at an advantage to progress to higher-level vocational/ technical qualifications, apprenticeships or employment.
Any offer on this programme is dependent on the relevant school agreeing to release the learner one day a week, pay the applicable cost and provide any additional support requirements. Applicants under 16 years of age or compulsory school age on school roll must prove that their headteacher or head of year agree to them studying at the College. All correspondence will be sent via the designated lead/contact at the school.
Apply Now
Our Electively Home Educated Applications will be open for 2022/23 applications are now open.
School Applicants
Please contact enquiries@plumpton.ac.uk for more information on our School Link Programme and an application form.
14-16 FAQ's
When is the application deadline?
The priority deadline for applications is 31st January. We encourage students to apply by this date in order to ensure a place on their preferred course. We are happy to accept applications after this date but we cannot guarantee your course selection.
Are you currently running Information Events?
We have a number of dates scheduled for our Information Events, please head to our Important Dates section to find out when they are. They are currently running on a virtual basis but we have created a dedicated platform and content to make them as informative and interactive as possible with great feedback from those run so far.
Does my school have to be involved in this process?
Yes, any offer on this programme is dependent on the relevant school agreeing to release the learner one day a week, pay the relevant fee and provide any additional support requirements. Applicants under 16 years of age or compulsory school age on school roll must produce evidence that their head teacher or head of year agree to them studying at the College.
Is there an interview process?
Yes, once an application has been received an interview will be scheduled. Questions will be asked about your schooling, including attendance, attitude to learning and what support needs you may have. It is important that a good overview is given so we can make the right decision about the course offer.
A place can only be offered if the school are in agreement and can fund the place on the course.
Do I have to wear uniform?
Schools students do not have to wear their school uniform. Dress is expected to be smart, casual and suited to the course attending with certain clothing requirements for some courses.
The wearing of the college lanyard is compulsory at all times and is a means of confirming students and staff on site.
- Adventure Education & Sport
Love the outdoors? The sport and adventure education industry is rapidly becoming a larger and more popular career path with many opportunities.
- Agriculture
At Plumpton, agriculture is at the centre of everything we do. Take a look at our range of courses which could lead you to careers such as a Trainee Argonomist or a Herdsperson.
Find our Beekeeping Courses here.
- Animal Management
Join us at our Animal Management Unit where we have the latest up-to-date technology and equipment to manage lots of different animals from mammals to reptiles.
- Blacksmithing & Metalwork
This creative industry is very much in demand, we have a range of courses for you to enjoy involving traditional skills such as forging and fabrication to creative metalwork and silver jewellery.
- Environmental Studies & Conservation
Set amongst the South Downs we have fantastic fauna, flora and wildlife for you to discover, you'll get to experience at first hand areas of farmed land, hedgerows and woodland.
- Equine Management
Horse management is a popular part of the UK economy where you could be a Livery Yard Manager, Groom or Behaviourist. We will give you the skills you need to succeed.
- Floristry
Whether it's wedding or funeral flowers, birthdays or other special occasions, florists are responsible for beautiful creations from different flowers and natural foliage. Find out about where our courses could lead you.
- Forestry & Arboriculture
At Plumpton, you'll certainly be in the right environment to develop your skills for the forestry and arboriculture industry. We have the latest equipment and expert lecturers to coach you through your education all the way through to employment.
- Horticulture
Did you know that horticulture is the only profession that mixes the UK's climate with art, practical craft skills, nature and science? Find out more about this industry that employs over 300,000 people in the UK.
- Motor Vehicle
We have a large range of courses to choose from, ensuring you have all the right skills for the wide variety of career directions from repair and maintenance to engine diagnostics.
