Parents

Understanding each student's individual needs is essential to providing the best support possible. We gather this information through a variety of methods, including:

• Initial Assessments and Interviews: We assess your child's academic background and any additional support needs during the application and interview process.
• Feeder School Information: We collaborate with your child's previous schools to gain insights into their learning style, strengths, and areas where they may need extra help.
• Disclosing Disabilities or Barriers to Learning: We encourage parents, guardians, or students to disclose any disabilities, medical conditions, or barriers to learning. This helps us tailor support and make necessary accommodations.
• Tutor Referrals to Central Support: Teachers and tutors can refer students to our central support team if additional assistance is needed, ensuring early and ongoing support.
• Self-Referral or Parent/Guardian Referral: Students or parents/guardians can initiate referrals if they believe extra support or adjustments are necessary. We welcome open communication to ensure we understand your child's needs.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Throughout their time at the college, we continually monitor progress and gather feedback through regular reviews, working closely with students and their families to adapt support plans as needed.

We aim to create a nurturing environment where students' needs are understood and addressed. We can help your child succeed and thrive at Newcastle Sixth Form College by working together.

• Discuss with Your Current School or Local SEN Authority: As a first step, talk with your child's school or local SEN (Special Educational Needs) authority to explore the best options and support available for your child's individual needs.
• Attend an Open Event: Join one of our open events or college visits to get a feel for the college environment and see what we offer.
• Application Process: Apply through our online application form.
• Meet Entry Requirements: Ensure your child meets the entry requirements for their chosen courses.
  Interview or Assessment: Your child may be invited to attend an interview or assessment to help us understand their interests and eligibility.
• Offer of Place: If successful, you will receive an offer letter with details about the next steps.
  Supporting Documents: Provide any necessary documentation, such as exam results, identification, or disclosures of additional needs.
• Enrolment: Complete the registration process by attending designated enrolment days or sessions.

We are here to support you through every stage to make the process clear and straightforward.

• You can speak directly with your child's tutor or support staff.
• Schedule regular meetings or phone calls to discuss your child's progress and well-being.
• Contact the college office via phone or email for assistance or to request a meeting.
• We are always happy to listen and address any issues promptly.

Your involvement is valued and helps us support your child's success.

We want to support your child's independence and ensure they get to college comfortably.

• Travel Training: We provide travel training to students who can travel independently, helping them build confidence and skills.
• Local Authority Education Transport: If the local authority provides transport, we recommend contacting your local education transport department to understand what arrangements can be made based on your child's distance from college and any individual needs.

We are happy to work with you and the relevant authorities to find the best travel options for your child's journey to college.

Once your child has submitted their application, a dedicated team of staff members will be in touch to guide you and your child through the transition, helping to make the process smooth and welcoming.

We will coordinate closely with you and the relevant professionals for students with more complex needs, such as medical or additional support requirements. This may involve gathering additional support information, making tailored arrangements, and working with different agencies like social workers, key workers, or medical teams.

In some cases, a multidisciplinary meeting will be arranged. This enables all involved professionals, including health teams, social workers, and college staff, to come together, discuss the student’s needs, and plan the best way to support their successful transition and ongoing development.

Our goal is to create a personalised support plan that helps every student feel confident, safe, and prepared to succeed at college.

We believe in keeping parents and guardians informed every step of the way. Our teaching staff regularly reviews each student's progress, sets targets, and uses effective strategies to identify and address any main barriers to learning.

We also communicate regularly with parents through meetings, phone calls, and updates, so you are always aware of your child's development.

Additionally, our central support services conduct termly reviews with all supported learners. We invite parents to attend these reviews to discuss progress, achievements, and any additional support needed.

Most importantly, parents and guardians are always welcome to visit the college and speak directly with staff about their young person's progress at any time, ensuring we work together to support every student's success.