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Choosing the Right College

Find out what to look for when choosing a college, how to compare options and what support may be available.

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Choosing a college is an important step towards adult life.

Every college is different. The best choice for you will depend on your interests, future goals, support needs and the type of learning environment where you feel comfortable.

Visiting colleges, attending open days and asking questions can help you decide which option is right for you.

This page will help you understand what to think about when choosing a college and how to make an informed decision.

On This Page

  • Is this page for me?

  • What is college?

  • Different types of college

  • What should I think about when choosing a college?

  • Visiting colleges and open days

  • Questions to ask at an open day

  • Support available at college

  • Travel and getting around

  • Applying for college

  • College checklist

  • Next steps

Is This Page for Me?

This page is for you if you:

  • Are in Year 10 or Year 11

  • Are thinking about your next steps after school

  • Want to compare different colleges

  • Want to understand what support may be available

Parents, carers and professionals may also find this information helpful.

What Is College?

College is where many young people continue their education after Year 11.

Colleges offer a wide range of courses and support options. Some focus on academic qualifications, while others focus on practical skills, employment or independent living.

Many young people with SEND choose college because it offers new opportunities, greater independence and a wider choice of courses.

Different Types of College

Different colleges offer different opportunities.

General Further Education Colleges

These colleges offer a wide range of academic and vocational courses, including:

  • A Levels

  • BTECs

  • T Levels

  • Vocational qualifications

  • Foundation learning

Specialist Colleges

Specialist colleges support young people with more complex needs and may offer:

  • Smaller class sizes

  • Specialist staff

  • Therapies and additional support

  • Independent living programmes

Supported Learning Courses

These courses focus on developing:

  • Confidence

  • Communication skills

  • Independence

  • Life skills

  • Employability skills

You can find some of Sutton's local colleges on this directory page.

What Should I Think About When Choosing a College?

When comparing colleges, think about:

  • Which courses interest you

  • What qualifications you want to achieve

  • Whether the college can meet your support needs

  • How you will travel there

  • The size of the college

  • What support is available

  • Opportunities for work experience

  • What happens after you complete the course

Try to think about where you will feel happy, safe and supported.

Visit Colleges Before You Decide

If possible, visit colleges before applying.

Many colleges offer:

  • Open days

  • Taster sessions

  • Campus tours

  • Information events

Visiting can help you:

  • Meet staff

  • Speak to current students

  • See classrooms and facilities

  • Learn about support available

  • Ask questions

  • Decide whether the college feels right for you

Questions to Ask at an Open Day

About the Course

  • What will I learn?

  • How is the course taught?

  • What qualification will I gain?

  • How many days will I attend college?

About Support

  • What support is available for students with SEND?

  • Is there a learning support team?

  • How do I tell you about my support needs?

  • What happens if I need extra help?

About Employment and Work Experience

  • Are there opportunities for work experience?

  • Do students get help preparing for work?

  • Do employers visit the college?

About Student Life

  • What clubs and activities are available?

  • Is there somewhere quiet if I need a break?

  • Can I meet current students?

About Travel

  • How do most students travel to college?

  • Is travel training available?

  • Are there good transport links?

Support Available at College

Support is different at every college.

It may include:

  • Learning support assistants

  • Study skills support

  • Assistive technology

  • Exam arrangements

  • Wellbeing support

  • Help with organisation and planning

If you have an EHCP, the college will work with you to understand your needs and the support required to help you succeed.

Travel and Getting Around

Many young people travel independently to college.

Learning to travel independently can help you:

  • Build confidence

  • Improve independence

  • Prepare for work and adult life

If you need support, Independent Travel Training may be available.

Related page: Support for Young People with SEND travelling by public transport

Applying for College

Most young people start exploring colleges during Year 10 or Year 11.

Applications are often made during Year 11.

To avoid missing deadlines:

  • Research options early

  • Attend open days

  • Speak to your school or college careers adviser

  • Ask for support if you need help with applications

College Checklist

Before accepting a place, ask yourself:

  • Have I visited the college?

  • Do I like the environment?

  • Does the course match my interests?

  • Can the college support my needs?

  • Do I know how I will travel there?

  • Have I asked questions?

  • Can I imagine myself studying there?

  • Do I understand what happens after the course?

If you answer "yes" to most of these questions, the college may be a good fit for you.

Next Steps

Thinking about university after college?

Going to University with SEND

Not sure what to do after school?

Your Education, Training and Employment Options

Interested in work and employment?

Finding Work and Employment Support