How to Apply
We want the admissions process to feel welcoming, supportive, and easy to understand for every learner and family.
We invite prospective learners, parents, carers, and professionals to attend one of our Open Days, held three times each academic year.
Our Open Days give you the opportunity to:
- Explore our woodland campus and facilities
- Learn more about our vocational pathways and study programmes
- Meet our tutors, support staff, and current learners
- Ask questions in a relaxed and informal environment
- Discover the support and opportunities available at Petty Pool
We understand that visiting a new place can feel overwhelming for some learners, so we aim to create an inclusive and supportive experience where everyone feels comfortable and welcomed.
Application Process
We know that choosing the right college is an important decision. That’s why our admissions process is designed to help learners and families feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way.
Attend an Open Event
Visit our campus to explore the facilities, meet staff and learners, and learn about the courses and support we offer. You are welcome to attend with your parents or carers, or they can come on their own.
We also offer accessible Open Days for those who may need a quieter or more supported experience. Just let us know when booking.
Submit Your Application
Complete and submit your application form online. Our Admissions Team will review your application to understand your goals and needs. If we believe we can support you, we will invite you to a one-to-one virtual Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) session.
Virtual 1:1 Guidance Session
We will invite you to a one-to-one virtual Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) session. Where you and your parents or carers will meet with a member of the Inclusion Team in a supportive video call. We’ll talk about your aspirations, strengths, and any support you may need. This helps us make sure Petty Pool is the right fit for you.
College Discovery Days
Join us on campus for two Discovery Days based on the vocational pathways you selected. You’ll take part in hands-on activities, meet other learners, and experience college life. Staff will support and observe you to understand how best we can help you succeed.
Admissions Panel Review
Following the Discovery Days, your application will be reviewed by our Admissions Panel. If successful, you will be offered a place at Petty Pool.
Transition Planning
If you accept your offer, we’ll work with you to create a personalised transition plan. This may include extra visits, meeting staff, or taking part in welcome days to help you settle in at your own pace.
New Parents Information Evening
Parents and carers will have the opportunity to meet the team, explore the curriculum and support services, learn about bursaries, and ask questions. It’s a great way to prepare for the year ahead and connect with other families.
New Learner Welcome Day
You’ll spend two supportive days on campus meeting tutors and fellow learners, taking part in confidence-building activities, and settling into your chosen course. You’ll also complete short Maths and English assessments to help us provide the right support from the start.
Enrolment
This is the final step where you officially become part of the college community. You’ll complete any remaining paperwork, confirm your course details, and receive your timetable along with other important information to help you get started with confidence.
The Learner Journey at Petty Pool
Before Joining
The learner journey begins by attending one of our Open Days and completing an application form.
As part of the admissions process, successful applicants are invited to attend Discovery Days and transition activities to help them become familiar with college life.
Once a place is offered, we create a personalised transition plan tailored to individual needs and developed in partnership with learners, families, schools, and professionals.
Before the academic year begins, learners attend an enrolment day in September to prepare for starting college.
Starting at College
We provide every new learner with a warm and supportive welcome.
Learners are introduced to our campus, staff team, routines, and learning environments to help them feel comfortable and confident from day one.
All learners enrol onto a 16–19 study programme selected during the admissions process. Every learner has an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) with personalised short-term and long-term SMART targets linked to EHCP outcomes, future aspirations, independence, and employability skills.
