Blackpool and The Fylde College launches 2020 study guide

Blackpool and The Fylde College has launched its new 2020 study guide with the message ‘stay local, go far’ for people of all ages.

The guide is packed with information about the exciting new academic year, which starts in September, and covers everything learners need to know ahead of taking the next step on their academic and professional journeys.

There’s plenty of information for people who would prefer to continue their higher education studies closer to home and they can choose from more than 50 degree courses, the majority of which are awarded by UK top 10 institution, Lancaster University.

For those that are looking to branch out into a new area of interest, there are career focused courses to gain the specific skills needed to get a job doing something they love.

In addition, there are lots of short essential skills courses to develop knowledge in specific areas needed for further study and employment.

School leavers can choose from a huge range of A Level equivalent qualifications to prepare them for university or the workplace.

All are available through a combination of vibrant online learning and small group teaching, safely delivered in college.

The launch of the new study guide follows the start of the college’s virtual open day events with opportunities for potential students to book an appointment with a tutor or take part in live chat as well as access information about careers, finance and the application process.

Clare Frost, Marketing Director at Blackpool and The Fylde College said: “These are unprecedented times and at B&FC learning and teaching remains as vibrant as ever.

“We are delighted to be launching our 2020 study guide and welcome everyone to make the most of our virtual open days to get their education off to a flying start.

“The quicker people speak to us, the more time there is to give them a fully personalised level of support. 

“We would like to reassure everyone that for the foreseeable future, attendance at college will be carefully managed to promote everyone's health, safety and wellbeing.”

To attend a virtual open event register on the college website https://www.blackpool.ac.uk

School Leaver Virtual Open Events: Wednesdays Degree-Level Virtual Open Events: Thursdays Adult Learners (19+) Virtual Open Event: Tuesdays All events take place from 2pm to 4pm.

The new study guide 2020 is available online at https://www.blackpool.ac.uk or can be requested through the site’s live chat or by calling 01253 504343.

It is also being delivered to 100,000 homes across the Fylde during July and is available in supermarkets around the area.

More than 16,000 students a year choose the Ofsted Outstanding rated Blackpool and The Fylde College and nine out of 10 are in work or further education within six months.

Since 2015 it has ranked in the top 3 per cent of further education colleges in England, has industry specialist tutors and links with more than 1,800 employers.

There is a wide range of free courses and financial support available for paid for qualifications.

What will learning look like in the next academic year?

B&FC's tutors are already experienced in delivering 'blended learning' - the combination of flexible in-class and distance learning – thanks to its thriving online community and team of friendly, remote learning specialists.

Theory-based sessions and assessments will be delivered mostly online via the college’s mobile-enabled virtual learning platform and Microsoft Teams.

These will be supported by socially distanced small-group teaching and assessments on campus, with the provision that these can be adjusted in line with the latest government advice.

Virtual and in-class lessons will also be supported by email, phone and video/ text-based chat.

Industry placements are unlikely to happen in the near future but opportunities for students to interact with the college’s partner employers are being planned.

Enrichment and extra-curricular activities designed to support student wellbeing are also being scheduled and every student will be allocated a progress tutor to guide and support them.

Students can also access a vast range of online guidance and resources to help with everything from finance and disability support to careers.

A comprehensive list of FAQs related to Covid-19 is available on the college website for students, applicants, apprentices and employers.

Picture: Andrea Webster from Blackpool and The Fylde College’s Contact Centre Team with the new study guide.