We are committed to providing the support to our students
At the Bedford College Group we are committed to providing the support to our students need so that everyone achieves their full potential and has an exceptional and transformational experience. The information below details the support we offer to care leavers studying on our courses and how to access this.
Support we offer
You can contact us for support as early as you would like, even before you apply to the college. We can talk you through the different course types and offer advice on which course might be right for you as well as guidance on careers options and financial support.
College Welcome Days take place at all campuses to ensure a smooth transition from school to college. Bespoke induction events can also be organised upon request.
Dedicated Personal Achievement Tutors to provide weekly tutorial sessions, as well as 1-2-1 guidance and pastoral support, money management and independent living throughout the academic year. Personal Achievement Tutors are specifically trained to support care leavers. Specific staff within the Students Services Team are also trained to support care leavers.
The College has a dedicated teacher for LAC and care leavers.
Students can access college Counselling services, with priority status given care leavers, and wellbeing zones are available to students.
There are additional learning support teams available for students with learning needs
The Student Services Team are qualified to level 6 Careers, Advice and Guidance level and provide high quality impartial advice to students, which continues after finishing study. The Student Services Careers team meet with all LAC/care leaver learners three times throughout the year to ensure specific careers advice and guidance/additional support. Drop in sessions are also available for learners.
Career fairs and careers month are held yearly with the opportunity to meet a range of employers/trainers and HE providers and visiting guest speakers and external agencies
Invite of employers to meet students where they have vacancies.
Work Placement Coordinators are available to support care leavers with opportunities to enter the world of work through work experience placements.
The Bedford College Group offers means tested bursaries based on household income. A hardship fund is also available. This is discretionary, and applications are considered based on individual need, but special considerations is given to care leavers.
Student Achievement and Wellbeing Managers are the first point of contact for care leavers.
Care Leaver Covenant contact (Bedford College, Shuttleworth College and The Bedford Sixth Form)
Saima Nasir
Tel: 01234 291915
Email: snasir@bedford.ac.uk
Care Leaver Covenant contact (Tresham College and The National College for Motorsport)
Naj Mistry
Tel: 01536 413583
Email: nmistry@bedford.ac.uk
