Support for Care Experienced Young People
At South Devon College we understand that as a young person leaving care you may be in need of additional support to help you achieve and realise your education and career goals. At South Devon College we want you to aim high. You are able to get support identifying finding the right course for you, finding employment to support your studies, researching your future career and help with financial welfare whilst at college.
We understand that you may not want to be singled out or treated differently to your friends or peers. The services you can access at the college are discreet and confidential and it is up to you how much help and advice you use. The most important thing is that you are aware of the support you are entitled to and that you know how to access it with confidence. We want to do everything we can to help you reach your goals.
Careers, information, advice and guidance
You can access impartial information, advice and guidance to help you choose the right course for you. Whether you are a school leaver, studying with us already, considering University study or deciding on future employment pathways, a guidance appointment can help with your decisions. Appointments are one-to-one, private and impartial and can be accessed by telephoning the Helpzone or simply dropping in to make an appointment.
You can access personal support to help you achieve your goals
- Course and career guidance
- Bursary and transport
- Finding part-time work
- Work experience
- Interview preparation
- University applications
- Finding apprenticeships
- Personal education plans
Travel and financial support
As a young person aged 16 – 18 leaving care you will be entitled to a weekly guaranteed bursary and, if you should require one, a bus pass to help you travel to college. We can help you apply for both your bursary and your bus pass, all you need to do is ask. You will need your Social Worker or Personal Advisor to provide evidence of your status as a care leaver. They will be aware of your right to a bursary and we can help you with any questions you have about applying.
Learning Support
If you feel you need extra support in lessons or exams to help you achieve then please let us know as soon as possible. Once you have informed the college of your needs a member of the learning support team will be able to arrange the right support to help you achieve.
Personal education plans and review meetings
A positive way of making sure you are on the right track is by having a yearly review. As a young person leaving care you may be asked to participate in your Personal Education Plan meeting.
Someone to talk to
We hope you enjoy your time at college, make new friends and succeed on your course but it’s good for you to know there is support when you need it. The Positive Intervention Team offer confidential advice and support for those times when you need someone to talk to. You can visit their friendly office in person or talk to your tutor or a member of Helpzone staff about making a referral.
Designated teacher
Whilst at college you will have a designated teacher who is available to help and support you throughout your studies. Your Designated Teacher will work closely with your Personal Tutor and the Positive Intervention Team to make sure you have everything you need to feel supported whilst you are at college. If you have any questions or concerns and you are unable to speak with your Personal Tutor you can contact your Designated Teacher directly with the details provided on the back of this leaflet.
Employability
All of our students can benefit from gaining work experience through part-time work or volunteering. The JOBSHOP is the place to find job vacancies and connect with employers who are looking for students to fill their vacancies. The dedicated online Moodle Jobshop site gives you access to jobs, CV and interview resources. Trained Helpzone staff are always on hand to help you with your search.
Thinking of university?
Going to university is a big decision and getting all the information you need can sometimes seem daunting. We offer all our students help and support with making their applications to university. Speak to a Helpzone advisor about any special events that may be running to help you learn more about studying in Higher Education.
Information for foster parents, carers and guardians
We want to make sure you feel supported and informed about the opportunities available to the young person you look after. If you want to learn more about the work we do to support care leavers or the support and advice available to any of our young people then you can contact us directly. If you have a young person who is thinking of joining South Devon College and you feel that they would benefit from some support in making the right course choice then book an appointment with a Guidance Officer today.