High School pupils grow up so fast these days, so we believe the ideal way to keep up with striving teenagers is to encourage them to think about taking advantage of studying at Forth Valley College, while still at high school.
That’s why we want parents, teachers, friends and family to let any senior school pupil know that there is an extensive range of school partnership courses, at varying levels of study, now available at FVC.
If you ARE a senior school pupil reading this … then what are you waiting for? Skip to the contact details at the end of this article and get applying!
These courses are for school pupils moving into S4, S5 and S6 in August 2021, who can sign up for our vocational courses as one of their subject options, alongside their school-based National and Higher qualifications.
Everyone has heard the phrase ‘School’s not for everyone’, but even if it was, FVC’s School Partnership courses can enhance, improve and develop on what senior school pupils are learning at secondary – and we already work closely with all 18 secondary schools in the Forth Valley area so we are well experienced in this field.
Another advantage is that the award winning Forth Valley College is one of Scotland’s best, leading the way in STEM subject areas and boasting industry experts across all our teaching departments.
It is a real win, win situation as it gives pupils a taste of what to expect in further or higher education, and takes the anxiety away from them when they eventually leave school and make their next step in education. It also encourages more independence, responsibility and maturity and allows them to experience a whole range of leisure activities and social networks.
Pupils entering S5 in August and planning to continue in school in S6 can sign up to study a Higher National Certificate (HNC) over the two years. New HNCs for 2021/22 include Applied Science and HNC Sports Coaching and Development (both Full-Time) and are also currently available in Computing and Police Studies. They are at the same level as an Advanced Higher and on completion can lead on to some HND courses, or even directly into year two of some degree courses at university.
FVC offer 10 Foundation Apprenticeships at SCQF Level 6 (same level as Higher study) normally for those pupils in S5 and S6. These include: Accountancy, Business Skills, Creative and Digital Media, Civil Engineering, Engineering, IT Hardware and Software, Scientific Technologies, Social Services Children and Young People, and Social Services: Healthcare.
Foundation Apprenticeships are at the same level as a Higher, are studied over two years and involve learning in the workplace with a local employer, as well as studying at college. Successful completion of most Foundation Apprenticeships gives a guaranteed place on an HNC at the college, or a head start with a Modern Apprenticeship. The qualifications are also accepted by most Scottish universities as equivalent to a Higher.
A new National Progression Awards (NPA) is available this year in Events and they are also available for school pupils in Exercise and Fitness Leadership, Sport and Fitness: Individual Sports, Sound Production and Construction Craft and Technician.
Skills For Work (SFW) is another option for school pupils to consider at FVC and subjects include Creative Industries, Early Education and Childcare and Engineering Skills. An Introduction to Hair and Beauty and a School Link in Make-up Artistry might also spark an interest in senior phase pupils.
What an opportunity this is to get ahead of the game before leaving school - go on, help them make their next move!
Pupils interested in these courses should talk to their pupil support teacher. For more information visit https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/ways-to-study/school-partnership-courses/ contact schools.coordinator@forthvalley.ac.uk or call 01324 403211.