School Leaver
FAQs

Application Process FAQs

  • Why should I choose Barnfield College?
    At Barnfield College, we turn potential into reality. We offer a wide range of courses tailored to your passions and interests, valuable work experience, and skills development with strong industry links. Our dedicated staff provide both academic and and personal support to ensure your success. Plus, our vibrant campus life is buzzing with activities and opportunities.

  • What types of courses are available?
    We offer a variety of courses including A Levels, vocational courses, T Levels, BTECs, apprenticeships, and foundation studies. Whether you're interested in business, engineering, healthcare, or the creative arts, we have something for everyone.

  • How can I apply to Barnfield College?

    Our application process is simple:

    1. Explore our courses to find what matches your passion.
    2. Submit your online application.
    3. Attend an open day or Course Introduction Meeting to secure an offer.
    4. Recieve your course offer by email.
    5. Prepare for enrolment in August.
    6. Start your journey with us!

  • What are the entry requirements for courses at Barnfield College?
     

    • Level 3 Courses: Typically, students will need at least 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths. Each course has unique requirements, so it's important to check the specific entry criteria for your chosen course on our website.
    • Level 2 Courses: Most students will need 3 GCSEs at grades 9-3, including either English or Maths. Specific requirements may vary by course, so please refer to our website for detailed information.
    • Level 1 Courses: Students need to be working at or towards a Level 1 standard. This generally means you have sat GCSEs at school. If you're unsure about your level, we can conduct an initial assessment to determine the most suitable level of study for you.

  • Can I apply for more than one course?
    Yes if you're undecided, you can apply for more than one course and attend a Course Introduction Meeting for each. If you're considering multiple options, then the best thing to do is to come see us at an Open Day. At an Open Day you can see every course area in one visit, maximising your time and giving you everything you need to make an informed choice.

  • How do UCAS points work at Barnfield College?
    UCAS points are awarded based on the qualifications you complete. For example, a Level 3 BTEC is equivalent to 3 A Levels and can add up to 168 UCAS points with a Distinction. For specific details on how many UCAS points your course can earn you, please use the UCAS grade calculator.

  • Are there taster days available?
    Yes, we offer taster sessions to give you a firsthand experience of your chosen course. These sessions are typically held in July and are exclusive to offer holders. They provide a great opportunity to meet your future classmates and tutors, and to get a feel for college life.

  • What are the benefits of attending an open day?
    Open days are the best way to experience Barnfield College firsthand. You can tour our facilities, participate in course activities, meet current students and tutors, and get a feel for college life. Visit our Events page here for the upcoming open days.

  • Are there opportunities for international students?
    Yes, we welcome international students and provide dedicated support to help them adjust to life in the UK, including visa guidance and language support. There are many factors to consider as an international student before applying, therefore we'd encourage you to contact our admissions team by email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. before you apply so that they can provide you with further advice.

  • What is the process for enrolling in an apprenticeship?
    To enrol on an apprenticeship, you need to find an employer willing to hire you as an apprentice. Our admissions team can help you identify opportunities and guide you through the application process, once you've found an employer then head to our website and apply for your chosen apprenticeship pathway - we'll then contact you and your employer to discuss the next steps.

  • What are the accommodation options for students?
    We do not offer on-campus accomodation. We can provide information and support to help you find suitable housing options nearby, contact our Student Support team on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information.

  • Can I study part-time?
    Students aged 16-18 will study full-time, this is between 3-4 days a week depending on your specific course. For students aged 19 or above, we offer part-time courses to accommodate those with other commitments. If you're an adult looking for answers to questions about your options, click here to jump to our Adult study FAQs.

College Policy FAQs

  • What is the college's attendance policy?
    Regular attendance is crucial for success. We expect students to attend all scheldued classes and notify us in case of absences. Persistent absenteeism may affect your progress and financial support. Your Head of Department will closely monitor your attendance and punctuality, we also send weekly updates to parents and carers to keep them informed of your attendance.

  • What is the college's policy on mobile phones and electronic devices?
    Mobile phones and electronic devices should be used responsibly and not disrupt the learning environment. You can have your phone on you whilst at College, however please note that specific guidelines are provided by each course tutor as to what constitutes acceptable use during your studies. There may be occasions where some lessons require use of mobile phones or applications, whereas most lessons will not and therefore phones should be on silent and in your bag during your lesson.

  • How does the college promote diversity and inclusion?
    We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected. We celebrate diversity through various initiatives and support networks, we invite guest speakers and sector leaders in across the year to deliver presentations and masterclasses on diversity and inclusion. Our campus is a safe space for all our students, therefore we take great pride in creating a respectful environment and do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

College Life FAQs

  • What is the GAP programme?
    GAP is a unique programme designed to enhance your employability through career coaching, employer encounters, certified skills, and personal development activities. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and the real world.

  • What opportunities are there for gaining work experience?
    We have strong partnerships with over 700 employers across various industries. These partnerships provide opportunities for work experience, masterclasses, workshops, and feedback on your work, ensuring you gain valuable insights and skills relevant to your chosen field.

  • Are there student discounts available?
    Yes, there are several student discounts available:

    • The Student Connect Card with Thameslink offers discounted train prices, including on routes to London.
    • The Arriva Student Saver offers discounted fares on travel on buses throughout Luton.
    •  The 16-25 Railcard gives students aged 16-25 or in full-time education 1/3 of most train fares across the UK.
    • Uno buses offer discounted fares for students traveling to Luton.

  • What is student life really like?
    Find out from our student ambassadors, they've got lots of videos that reveal what it's really like to be a student at Barnfield College. Click here to find out more.

  • What is the student-to-teacher ratio at Barnfield College?
    This varies from course to course, some practical courses such as Hairdressing, Professional Cookery, or Plumbing will have limited group numbers to match the workstations available. Whereas traditional classroom-based courses, such as Business, Computing, or A Levels will range from from 20 to 24 students.

  • What kind of career support does the college offer?
    Our Careers Team provides one-on-one guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and access to job fairs and employer networks to help you plan your career path. They're available right throughout your studies and invite many external providers to join us on campus so that you can grow your professional network and confidence.

  • How can I get involved in Student Governance?
    Students can participate in our Student Ambassador scheme, which represents the student body and organises events and activities. You'll find out more about the process once you enrol at college. We also hold elections annually for various positions, including Student Governors. Student Governors sit on the College's Board Of Governors and attend regular meetings to provide the voice of the student body at the most senior level of operations.

  • What facilities are available on campus?
    Our campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, workshops, studios, and social spaces. We continually invest in industry-standard equipment to ensure you have the best learning environment.

  • What technology and resources are available to students?
    Students have access to modern IT facilities, including computer labs, free Wi-Fi, loaned laptops, industry-standard software for specific courses and much more. We also provide access to online learning platforms and digital resources to boost your flexible learning experience.

  • How can I access my timetable and course materials?
    Timetables and course materials are accessible through the MyWHCG App and CANVAS, which you can log into with your student credentials. Students can access their student emails, the app and Canvas by clicking 'Login' on the homepage of the College website.

Student Support FAQs

  • How does Barnfield College support student development?
    We provide extensive support through our Student Support teams, offering guidance on personal issues, financial advice, mental health and wellbeing support, and more. Our Learner Support Fund can help with travel, meals, and kit costs.

  • What financial support is available?
    We offer various financial support options, including the Learner Support Fund, which can assist with travel, meals, and kit costs. If your household income is less than £40,001, you could be eligible for additional support. For more details, click here to visit the financial support page on our website.

  • Are there any bursaries available?
    Yes, we offer a range of bursaries to support students financially. Eligibility criteria and application can be found on our website under the Learner Support Fund. We can help with Travel, Kit and Equipment, Meals, Childcare and much more.

  • How does the college support students with disabilities?
    We offer tailored support for students with disabilities, including assistive technology, learning support, and reasonable adjustments to ensure equal access to education. As part of the application process, we'll ask more questions about you to find out your specific support requirements. If you have an Educational Health Care Plan then we'll also liaise with your local authority about your support needs.

  • What should I do if I need to take a leave of absence?
    If you need to take a leave of absence, you should discuss your situation with your course tutor and the Student Support team to understand the implications and process. Education is vital to your future and therefore you should always prioritise your studies, we recognise that sometimes there are critical life events that mean you may not be able to attend college for a short period of time. You must communicate with your tutors beforehand to ensure that there are appropiate measures in place.

 CHRISTMAS BREAK FAQs 

 

 

  • Can I contact the College during the break?
    Our campuses will be closed, but you can contact us for general enquiries and IT support between Friday 12 December and Friday 19 December: 

    Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Admissions Phone: 01582 569569

    IT Helpdesk: 01923 812424

    Our phone lines will be open on weekdays between the hours of 9am-4pm during this period, with an earlier finish of 12pm on Friday 19 December.

    Enquiries received after Friday 19 December will be responded to when the college reopens in the new year.

  • I need to reset my password for my college account, how do I do this?
    Simply visit www.office.com and attempt to sign in with your college email address – you should then select the ‘forgotten my password’ button and you will be prompted to reset your password. Please note that this will only work if you have already set up multi-factor authentication. If you have any more issues, IT will be available on weekdays between Friday 12 December and Friday 19 December.

 

 CHRISTMAS BREAK SUPPORT SERVICES FAQs 

  • What support services are available during the Christmas break?
    If you need any support over the Christmas period, there are a number of support services you can contact below:

    • Health Assured - College has funded a free telephone support line. Call 0800 028 3766 for access to trained counsellors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please add code MHA 197653.
    • Your Doctor - It is important that your doctor is aware of your physical or emotional concerns, as being your primary care service, they can offer you access to wider treatment and medical support.
    • The A&E Department - at your nearest hospital or call 999 if you are very concerned about your own or someone else's imminent safety. You can also call 111 for medical advice.
    • Childline - Trained Childline counsellors are there for young people 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Telephone: 0800 1111 (Freephone from mobiles and landlines).
    • Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7 for any concerns).
    • Papyrus - Trained counsellors are there for anyone under the age of 35, between 9am - 10pm weekdays, and 2pm - 10pm weekends. Telephone: 0800 068 41 41 or text 8824.
    • College Safeguarding Team: For urgent safeguarding matters, call 01923 812122 to speak with the duty manager.

 CHRISTMAS BREAK EXAMS FAQs 

  • When are the BTEC exams scheduled?
    Exams begin the week of Monday 5 January 2026. You should have received an official statement of entry via email confirming your exam date, time, and room.

  • What should I do if I have questions about my exam?
    Contact the Exams Office directly once the College reopens on Monday 5 January 2026. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01923 812237.

  • How can I find out when my exams are?
    If you have exams scheduled for January, then you should have received a ‘Statement of Entry’ by email. This confirms the time, date, location and any access arrangements you have for your exam. You can also view the exams calendar in the College App, simply visit the app and select ‘Exams Calendar’ - if you have exams in January then you will be able to see them here.

 CHRISTMAS BREAK ON DEMAND LEARNING FAQs 

  • I need to reset my password for my college account, how do I do this?
    Simply visit www.office.com and attempt to sign in with your college email address, you should then select the ‘forgotten my password’ button and you will be prompted to reset your password. Please note that this will only work if you have already set up multi-factor authentication.

 CHRISTMAS BREAK ADMISSIONS FAQs 

  • Can I apply or enquire about courses during the break?
    Yes, you can contact the Admissions Team between Friday 12 December and Friday 19 December via:

    Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Phone: 01582 569569 

    Our phone lines will be open on weekdays between the hours of 9am-4pm, with an earlier finish of 12pm on Friday 19 December.

    Enquiries received after Friday 19 December will be responded to when the college reopens in the new year.

  • How do I apply for a course?
     Applying for a course is simple - you can browse our courses by clicking here. Once you’ve found the course for you, simply click apply to start your application journey.

  • I’d like to book a part-time leisure course, how can I do this?
    We offer a range of leisure courses. Leisure courses will have the option to ‘Book Now’ on the course page. This will allow you to secure a place online – you will pay the fees via PayPal. Our Admissions Team will confirm your booking when the college reopens in January. Alternatively, you can call admissions between 12-19 December to enrol over the phone and pay by card.

  • I’m interested in an apprenticeship starting in January, can you help?
    Absolutely – we offer a range of apprenticeships at the college including Electrical Installation, Plumbing, Hairdressing, Motor Vehicle and Early Years. You can click here to view the apprenticeships section of our website and can submit an enquiry for your chosen apprenticeship if you have an employer. Our apprenticeships team will be in touch in the new year to discuss your next steps.

  • I’ve recently applied for a course, when should I expect to hear back?
    Our Admissions Team is on annual leave during the Christmas closure period, they will be back in the office from Friday 3 January and be in touch with new applicants with next steps on their course. Rest assured that if you’ve made an application we will be in touch with you as soon as possible to get things moving forward.

 CHRISTMAS BREAK UCAS FAQs 

  • When is the deadline for submitting my application?
    This year, the UCAS equal consideration deadline is 14 January 2026 at 6pm. It is important for your application to be ready in advance of the deadline. This will allow us enough time for your tutor to complete your reference and for admissions to check if any changes need to be made to your application before submitting to UCAS.

  • How much does it cost to submit a UCAS application?
    The fee for all undergraduate applications is £28.95 in total. You will be asked to pay this fee when you submit your application to the college for review. If you currently receive free school meals or have done so within the last six years, please confirm this in your application and UCAS will waive your fees entirely. If you require financial support with paying this fee, please speak to admissions or student support in the new year.

  • How do I get a reference from my tutor?
    The Admissions Team are responsible for securing a reference from your tutor. However, you must submit your application to the college for review before this process can take place. When the college reopens in January, your tutor will complete your reference in good time ahead of the equal consideration deadline.