Plumpton College provides a vocational curriculum for students wanting to broaden their horizons from year 10 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 up to a max. of 15. 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 programme of study is 3 days a week. Students can choose vocational subjects in the areas that interest them alongside their core subjects in English, maths, PSHE and science.
The college will only consider home-educated students whose parents provide confirmation of home educating status (e.g. a copy of the de-registration letter) for their child, who must have been out of education for at least 6 months. If accepted onto a course, the student's course fee 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 explore their interests, enhance their skills and introduce them to vocational -related learning through participation in a number of 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 onto a 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 relevant cost 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. All correspondence will be sent via the designated lead/contact at the School.
Information for students
Term Dates: 14+ Vocational Courses
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- 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.
- 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.
