Penwith CollegeFurther Education Prospectus

Ofsted OutstandingBe part of

our success

It has been another incredible year of success and achievement for everyone at Truro and Penwith College.

Our students have achieved record-breaking results across the board, our tutors have excelled in the delivery of the highest standard of education and the College continues to expand its world-class facilities.

We are one of the very best colleges in the country and everyone involved has been rewarded for their continued hard work with Ofsted designating us ‘Outstanding’.

Tertiary colleges have established a very high reputation for the quality of their courses, for their specialist post-16 expertise and environments, for the wide range and flexibility of the courses they offer, and for their record of examination results. Truro and Penwith College is a shining example of this success and results for A Level, Vocational Courses and the International Baccalaureate have been exceptional.

Our academic record speaks for itself, our students achieve greatness in every field and we are confident we are the best educational institution for you to pursue your ambitions. In order to achieve these high levels of success, we are focused on providing outstanding teaching with personal support, as well as the best programmes and facilities.

Our impressive Academies at the College provide a platform for students to pursue excellence in sports, music, art, medicine and academia, alongside their chosen course. The standard of this provision has been noted far and wide and we are pleased to announce a new association with Chelsea FC Foundation. This is just one of many examples of the incredible opportunities that await you at Truro and Penwith College.

On the academic side, specialised guidance and support is available for applications to Oxbridge and the medical profession. We have an outstanding record for helping students to progress into the most competitive degree courses and the most selective universities.

As you explore our prospectus you will see the level of passion we bring to all aspects of College life. I hope you will decide to become part of our College and create your own outstanding experiences, achievements and future.

David Walrond Principal

Welcome

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ContentsCourse List 4

We are Outstanding 6Outstanding Education 8Outstanding Results 10Outstanding Experiences 12Outstanding Academies 14Outstanding Opportunities 16

Your Options Explained 18

Art & Design 22Automotive & Engineering 26Business, Admin & Law 30Care, Community & Education 38Computing & IT 46Construction 50Employability 62English & Languages 64Food, Catering & Hospitality 68Foundation Studies 74Hair, Beauty & Complementary Therapies 76Humanities & Social Sciences 82Mathematics 86Media & Photography 88Music & Performing Arts 94Science 98Sport & Leisure & Public Services 102

Academies 108

The Low-down 116Frequently Asked Questions 123Your Journey to College 124Lifelong Learning 126

How to Apply 128Open Events 129

Index 130

Your future starts here...

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Course List

A LevelsYou can study a wide variety of subjects and keep your options open. You will choose up to five subjects at AS Level (first year) and most students will continue with four subjects at A2 Level in the second year. A Levels are Level 3 courses.

Art & Design 22Fine Art 23Illustration/Graphics 23

Business, Admin & Law 30Business Studies 31Economics 31Law 32

Computing & IT 46Computer Science 47

English & Languages 64English Language 65English Language & Literature 65English Literature 66French 67Spanish 67

Humanities & Social Sciences 82Geography 83History 83Philosophy, Ethics & Religion 84Politics 84Psychology 85Sociology 85

Mathematics 86Further Mathematics 87Mathematics 87

Media & Photography 88Film Studies 89Media Studies 89Photography 90

Music & Performing Arts 94Drama & Theatre Studies 95 Music 95

Science 98Biology 99Chemistry 99Environmental Studies 101Physics 101

Sport, Leisure & Public Services 102Physical Education 103

Subsidiary DiplomaSubsidiary Certificates and Diplomas are an excellent addition if you are studying A Levels. It can add breadth to your academic programme and provide a vocationally relevant dimension. The Level 3 course is equivalent to one A Level.

Care, Community & Education 38Health & Social Care 39

Computing & IT 46Information Technology 47

Media & Photography 88Games Development 90

Music & Performing Arts 94Music Practitioner 96

VocationalThese work-related qualifications will prepare you for progression to Higher Education or employment. They are excellent choices if you know the area of study or career pathway you wish to pursue. These courses are available at Level (L) 1, 2 and 3.

Art & Design 22Art & Design UAL L1 Diploma 24Art & Design UAL L2 Diploma 24Art & Design UAL L3 Extended Diploma 25

Automotive & Engineering 26Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair L1 Diploma 27Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair L2 Diploma 27Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair L3 Diploma 28

Business, Admin & Law 30Business L3 Extended Diploma 32

Care, Community & Education 38Exploring the Caring Sectors L1 Progression 39Children’s Play, Learning & Development L2 Progression 40Health & Social Care L2 Progression 40Childcare & Education (Early Years Educator) CACHE L3 Diploma 41Health & Social Care L3 Extended Diploma 41

Computing & IT 46Information & Creative Technology L2 Progression 48Computing L3 Extended Diploma 48

Construction 50Bricklaying L1 Diploma 51Carpentry & Joinery L1 Diploma 51Painting & Decorating L1 Diploma 52Bench Joinery L2 Diploma 52Craft Masonry L2 Diploma 53Painting & Decorating L2 Diploma 53Site Carpentry L2 Diploma 54Bench Joinery L3 Diploma 54Bricklaying L3 Diploma 55Painting & Decorating L3 Diploma 55Site Carpentry L3 Diploma 56

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Employability 62Employability L2 Certificate 63Traineeships & Open Options L2 63

Food, Catering & Hospitality 68Professional Cookery L1 Diploma 69Professional Cookery & Food & Beverage Studies L2 Diploma 69Advanced Professional Cookery (Tech Level) L3 Diploma 70

Foundation Studies 74Independent Living Pre Entry/Entry Level 75Skilled for Life Entry Level 75

Hair, Beauty & Complementary Therapies 76Hair & Beauty L1 Progression 77Beauty Specialist Techniques L2 Progression 77Women’s Hairdressing L2 Diploma 78Beauty Therapy (Tech Level) L3 Diploma 78Hairdressing (Tech Level) L3 Diploma 79

Media & Photography 88Media & Games L2 Progression 92Games, Animation & VFX Skills AIM L3 Extended Diploma 92Games Design UAL L3 Extended Diploma 93Lens Based Media UAL L3 Extended Diploma 93

Music & Performing Arts 94Music Rockschool L2 Progression 96Music Practitioner Rockschool L3 Extended Diploma 97

Sport, Leisure & Public Services 102Sport Level 2 Progression 103Sport Development & Coaching L3 Extended Diploma 104Sport & Exercise Science L3 Extended Diploma 104Uniformed Public Services L3 Extended Diploma 105

ApprenticeshipsApprenticeships are an opportunity to earn a real wage, gain practical skills and complete nationally-recognised qualifications while working for a local business.

Automotive & Engineering 26Vehicle Maintenance & Repair L2 28Vehicle Maintenance & Repair L3 29

Business, Admin & Law 30Accounting L2 33Business Administration L2 33Retail Skills L2 34Accounting L3 34Business Administration L3 36Legal Administration L3 36Marketing L3 37Medical Administration L3 37

Care, Community & Education 38Children & Young People’s Workforce L2 43Health & Social Care L2 43Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools L2 44Early Years Educator L3 44Health & Social Care L3 45Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools L3 45

Construction 50Architectural Joinery L2 56Craft Masonry L2 58Painting & Decorating L2 58Plastering L2 59Site Carpentry L2 59Architectural Joinery L3 60Bricklaying L3 60Painting & Decorating L3 61Site Carpentry L3 61

Food, Catering & Hospitality 68Food & Beverage Service L2 70Food Production & Cooking L2 71Hospitality Services L2 71Licensed Hospitality L2 72Professional Cookery L2 72Hospitality Supervision & Leadership L3 73Professional Cookery L3 73

Hair, Beauty & Complementary Therapies 76Barbering L2 79Beauty Therapy L2 80Hairdressing L2 80Beauty Therapy L3 81Hairdressing L3 81

Sport, Leisure & Public Services 102Active Leisure Operations L2 106Activity Leadership L2 106Gym Instructor L2 107Personal Trainer L3 107

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Ofsted Outstanding

2016

We are Outstanding

Be part of our success

Outstanding EducationYour education and your future couldn’t be in better hands when you choose to join Truro and Penwith College.

We are officially recognised as one of the best colleges in the country and Ofsted has awarded the College ‘Outstanding’ status as a result of its inspection in 2016. Not only are we the best performing state A Level provider in Cornwall, we are also one of the highest performing colleges nationally on all courses at all levels. You can choose from a huge range of A Levels, Vocational Courses and Apprenticeships, all taught by highly-qualified, specialist educators. We are also the only college in Cornwall to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and our results place us as the top, non-selective, state provider of the qualification in the country.

The positive and nurturing environment, combined with world-class facilities and exceptional tutors, provides you with the best opportunity to achieve your educational goals. So whether you have a career in mind, or you are still exploring your options, we have the perfect course for you.

It’s time to be Outstanding. 8

Ofsted inspectors reveal why studying at Truro and Penwith College is the best way to secure your dream university place, career and future.

“Excellent facilities and resources for learning.”

“Learners make exceptional progress, often well above that which their expectations and their qualifications on entry would predict.”

“Exceptionally effective careers advice

and guidance.”

“Teachers are highly skilled, apply

their expertise to great effect in planning lessons, and bring a

passion to their teaching that challenges and inspires

learners to make rapid progress.”

“There is a culture of striving for excellence and continuous improvement, which is evident across the whole organisation.”

“Learners enjoy great

success because of the ethos of aspiration and achievement that

pervades the College." 9

Outstanding ResultsWhile we know you will have the time of your life at Truro and Penwith College, it is of course your results that matter. Fortunately, you will be studying at one of the best non-selective Colleges in the country when it comes to academic achievement. Truro and Penwith College is also the best performing public 16-18 provider in Cornwall in the Government’s official national 2015 post-16 Performance Tables for schools and colleges.

Whether you decide to take A Levels, the IB Diploma or a vocational option, we welcome you to join us in continuing to deliver Outstanding results.

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A LevelsMore students than ever have achieved outstanding A Level results at Truro and Penwith College, which once again has beaten the national average with more than a 99% pass rate. Additionally, students achieved a 100% pass rate in a total of 39 A Level subjects across the College’s campuses in Truro and Penzance.

On the ‘points per student score’ for A Level, which effectively measures the university “currency” students have earned, the college’s score of 819.4 was not only well above any other state provider in Cornwall but also exceeded the national average score by over 40 points. Students achieved significantly higher grades than those predicted by their GCSE results and on this value-added measure the College

VocationalNearly 900 students successfully completed their two-year Level 3 vocational courses this summer with again most students achieving very high grades. These figures make Truro and Penwith College one of the largest providers of higher level vocational qualifications nationally, as well as one of the most successful in terms of achievement levels.

More than four hundred students gained diplomas in occupational areas such as Administration, Beauty Therapy, Construction, Hairdressing, Professional Cookery and Light Vehicle Maintenance with around a hundred of these being at Level 3 (A Level equivalent).

Nearly 200 students achieved the highest BTEC Level 3 grade possible, the coveted triple Distinction star.

outperforms not only the rest of Cornwall but over 98% of the 2,300 state school and college providers in England. A record-equalling 87% of students passed with the higher grades of A-C (compared to the national A-C grade pass rate of 78%). Very high numbers of students were successful in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) A Level subjects:• Biology: 128 students • Chemistry: 122 students• Physics: 113 students• Mathematics: 203 students Very high numbers were also successful in other traditional “facilitating” subjects:• English: 387 students • Geography: 147 students• History: 119 students

100% A Level pass ratein 39

subjects

A record number of 126 students successfully completed their two-year Level 3 Extended Diploma courses this summer at Penwith College. Students excelled on Extended Diplomas including Sport, Health & Social Care, Business and Art with 43 students achieved at least a triple Distinction.

Mark Arnold, Director of Quality at the College said:

“The fact that the College offers many full time, specialist occupational and skills-based courses alongside over 20 different Extended Diploma courses ensures that students are able to choose the right course for them. These exceptional achievements ensure that our students have the best possible progression opportunities onto university, into employment or Apprenticeships.”

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Space to relax, make friends and socialiseOutstanding

ExperiencesWhen you first arrive at Truro and Penwith College, no matter your interests, talent or ambitions, you will make friends quickly and be supported by highly motivated and inspirational tutors. You will choose your favourite places to hangout as you become familiar with the fantastic facilities in modern, purpose-built buildings. Whether lounging on the grass under the sun, grabbing a coffee before heading to the recording studios to work on your music, or throwing on your trainers and working out at the gym, life around lectures is rich, varied and a lot of fun. Back in the classrooms, the quality of teaching and modern, industry-standard equipment across the curriculum will inspire you to make continued progress throughout your studies.

You will also love experiencing your own transformation, as College prepares you for the next stage of your life.

We know that universities and employers look for talented, well-rounded individuals who know how to excel in an adult environment so thanks to the College’s vibrant and inclusive social scene, along with some of the best educational, artistic and sporting facilities in the country, you will be in the perfect environment to surpass your goals and lead a life of endless opportunity. It’s exciting, challenging and rewarding, and the College is here to support you every step of the way.

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Study in a positive environment with brand new buildings, facilities

and resources

State-of-the-art industry-standard equipment to enhance your learning experience

Fantastic support and guidance to help you

get the very most out of your time at College

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Outstanding AcademiesWhether it is sporting, academic or artistic, by joining an Academy you will love being immersed in an environment that will see your skill-levels soar. The achievements of our Academy students are a huge source of pride for all involved, with many representing their country in sport, gaining national recognition with their music or breaking new ground in their chosen field of study. Your time with your Academy doesn’t interfere with your full-time course studies and will lead to incredible opportunities. Just ask Jack Nowell, England RFU player or Andrew Henderson, professional football freestyler who claimed the Red Bull Street Style World Final title in Brazil 2014, about how Academies have helped change their lives. Truro and Penwith College can help you take that step from Cornwall to the world stage.

Find out more on page 108.

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Outstanding OpportunitiesThe combination of brilliant facilities, expert tuition and a positive campus atmosphere allow you to achieve your true potential. Former and current pupils are having the most incredible experiences thanks to their ambition and the support given to all pupils at Truro and Penwith College. We will help you get where you want to go, no matter where in the world that may be.

Ben Kent and Ben Hicks represented Great Britain in the Triathlon World Championships in Chicago. Elite athletes at the College are given personalised coaching and bespoke training programmes to ensure they reach their full potential.

Clarinet player Jacob Perry travelled to Kentucky, US as part of the Piccadilly Symphony Orchestra, the 'orchestra in residence' at The International Conductors Festival. The music facilities and lecturers at College provide ensure you hit all the right notes in your musical career.

Gabriella Fenton secured a place at prestigious US university Yale on a grant that covered her fees, travel, food and accommodation. She said her English Lecturer and Personal Tutor at Truro College was instrumental in giving her the opportunity of a lifetime. Come and seize your opportunity.

Sam Palladio is an actor and musician who stars as Gunnar Scott in the musical drama series Nashville. Sam, had a band called ‘Liquid Sister’ at Truro College and gigged around Cornwall. Don’t let anyone tell you Hollywood is a dream too far.

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Jack Nowell and Luke Cowen-Dickie have travelled the world securing glory for England and Cornwall. Our Sports Academies have students playing at the very highest levels of their chosen sports, representing their country across the globe.

Geography A Level and IB Diploma students have the opportunity to visit some incredible locations around the world. Trips to Swaziland and Iceland inspired memories to last a lifetime.

Elliot Bray landed a work placement for an all-expenses paid trip to work at top French restaurant, Fish la Boissonnerie in Paris for two weeks. Professional, well-connected tutors ensure you scale the heights of your chosen industry.

A Level Italian language students enjoyed a lively study and cultural trip to the city of Venice in Italy. Studying languages at College gives you the chance to travel to new destinations and immerse yourself in new cultures.

A Level and IB Diploma students visited Vélez-Málaga in the South of Spain. The College’s IB course is regarded as one of the very best in the country, leading to endless international opportunities.

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Your Options ExplainedAre you aware just how many options there are for you? You have so much choice. If you want to stay in full-time education, you can choose subjects that interest you, either a variety at A Level or on the IB Diploma, or specialising in one area on a vocational course. You may decide classroom-based learning isn’t for you anymore. Many of our full-time vocational courses are practically based, or you could start an Apprenticeship, learning while at work and coming to College on specific days. We also offer programmes for those with no prior qualifications and who are seeking employment or to access full-time education. All of these options will give you an advantage whether you want to find a job or go on to university. We’ll help you make the choice that’s right for you.

For more information and to discuss your options in further detail make sure you come along to one of our many open events. Here you will also get the opportunity to see our fantastic facilities and find out about your life as a student at one of the best colleges in the country. Please refer to page 165 for our open event dates.

Please note at the time of going to print the College is awaiting clarification from awarding bodies regarding provision which will be approved to run from 2017.

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Progression Level 1 & 2How long is it? 1 year.

What do you need? Progression 1: No prior qualification required. Progression 2: Three GCSEs at grade 3 or 4 including English Language or Literature and/or mathematics.

What is it? These courses are focused on progression, either to further study or into employment. You will develop knowledge and understanding by applying your learning and skills in a work-related context.

Progression 1 pathways include Functional Skills English and Maths up to Level 1 and a Work Skills qualification. Achievement at Level 1 is essential for progression onto Level 2 courses. A Progression 1 Vocational Taster course is also available to allow you to sample many different subject areas. Progression 2 is the pathway to Level 3 courses including Extended Diplomas and in specific instances, to A Levels. Progression 2 involves Level 2 English and maths plus a vocational qualification. This provides the platform for progression to a wide range of courses. Assessment will be through a combination of external examination and coursework.

Foundation Studies (Entry & Level 1)How long is it? Various durations.

What do you need? No prior qualification required.

What is it? These Entry Level and Level 1 courses are designed to enable students with learning difficulties and disabilities to obtain the skills they need to participate within the community. Many programmes are tailored to your individual need and have a flexible approach.

Employability (Entry, Level 1 & 2)How long is it? Various durations.

What do you need? No prior qualification required.

What is it? These programmes put an equal emphasis on qualifications and work experience leading to an Apprenticeship, Further Education or paid employment.

You will be able to develop your skills to ensure that you are ready and able to obtain a full-time job or an Apprenticeship. Alternatively you may decide that after your work placement, Further Education is required to obtain your career aspirations; as a Truro and Penwith College student you will have access to all of the relevant courses that the College has to offer.

Vocational Courses (Entry - Level 3)How long is it? Various durations depending on subject and level.

What do you need? Entry Level and Level 1 courses require no formal entry requirements. Level 2 and 3 courses may require successful completion of a lower-level qualification in an appropriate subject. You will be required to attend a course interview.

What is it? Other vocational qualifications are also available which involve studying both the theory and practical elements of a chosen subject. These will enable you to develop occupational knowledge and progress into industry. They are available in a variety of subjects (eg hair, beauty, construction, catering, motor vehicle and secretarial) and at various levels. Awarding bodies include IMI, City and Guilds and DSA.

Subsidiary Diploma Level 3How long is it? Two years.

What do you need? Four GCSEs at grade C or above or a Level 2 Diploma in appropriate subjects.

What is it? The Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is an excellent addition if you are studying A Levels. It can add breadth to an academic programme of study and provide a vocationally relevant dimension. This six-unit diploma is equivalent to one A Level. Assessment is through coursework and evaluation of practical skills including a final major project.

Extended Diploma Level 3How long is it? Two years - In year one you will complete a Level 3 Foundation Diploma before progressing to gain the full Extended Diploma at the end of Year 2 unless otherwise stated.

What do you need? Four GCSEs at grade C or above or a Level 2 Diploma in appropriate subjects (to include English Language or Literature and/or mathematics at grade 5 or above).

What is it? Previously known as the National Diploma, the180 credit, 18-unit qualification is referred to as the ExtendedDiploma. This Diploma is equivalent to three subjects at A Level. It is an excellent route if you have decided on the broad area of employment you wish to pursue. The combination of a range of specialist modules with the depth of knowledge acquired enables you to progress successfully into higher education or into employment. You will also be required to undertake several hours of independent study. Assessment is through coursework, external written assessments and evaluation of practical skills.

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A Level (Level 3)How long is it? AS Level: One year / A2 Level: Two years

What do you need? Five GCSEs at grade C or above including grade B or above in appropriate subjects (to include English Language or Literature and/or mathematics at grade 5 or above).

What is it? Advanced Level programmes consist of formal lectures, class activities and assessments, set homework and problem solving. For each subject, you will also be required to undertake several hours of independent study. Modern study facilities are available in the College and successful students use these effectively.

Students who successfully complete the AS Level units in Year 1 may progress to A2 Level in Year 2 where further units are assessed. We strongly encourage a broad programme for A Level students. Most subject specifications will contain a combination of examinations and coursework assessment.

From 2017 all A Levels will be delivered in the new linear format with no qualification at the end of year one. Unlike old modular A Levels, academic assessment for Linear A Levels will take place at the end of two years of study.

A Levels are however, also available as a stand alone one year AS Level qualification. These AS Level qualifications do not lead on to the second year of study and a full A Level qualification.

Apprenticeships (Level 2 & 3)How long is it? A minimum of 12 months.

What do you need? There are no formal requirements as Apprenticeships are not just based on previous academic achievement. Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16 and start throughout the year, meaning you can apply at a time that suits you most. You will need to be committed, motivated, enthusiastic and reliable. Applicants will typically be interviewed prior to starting an Apprenticeship programme.

What is it? As an Apprentice you will be working for a local business, earning a real wage, gaining practical skills and completing nationally recognised qualifications. Apprentices are paid at least £100 per week if working full-time. Choosing the Apprenticeship route gets you straight into the career of your choice. After finishing, the majority of Apprentices (85%) will stay in employment, with two-thirds (64%) staying with the same employer. You will be employed for at least 30 hours per week and take part in a mixture of taught courses, workshops, work-based assessments and e-learning. You will also have a dedicated training adviser who will help and support you throughout your Apprenticeship.

Costs: Age 16 - 18 = Fully Funded / Aged 19+ = Employer contribution of £500 or £750 for large organisations (correct at time of print).

For further details please visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk or contact our Apprenticeship recruitment co-ordinator by email at apprenticeships@truro-penwith.ac.uk

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GCSEGrade D - E

GCSEGrade A* - C

Foundation Studies

Employability Courses

Vocational Qualifications

Apprenticeships

Level 1 Progression

Level 2 Progression

Level 3 Extended Diploma

Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma

A Levels

Entry Level Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

1 2 3E

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Art & DesignAs an Art and Design student you will have the freedom to explore new ideas while developing your technical skills in your chosen medium. Your creativity will be enhanced within the refurbished Nanjizal building with space, light and views over the new campus.The study of art history, theory and techniques will provide many ideas that can be absorbed into your practical work. You will have the opportunity to build a portfolio of work as well as a chance to exhibit in the end-of-year show in Penzance. Many students also progress onto the successful Foundation Diploma in Art and Design based at our Tregye campus.

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A Level Fine Art

Do you enjoy drawing? Would you like to improve your skills and knowledge? Would you like the opportunity to see and understand the world in a different way? This course offers you the opportunity to develop creatively, either as a personally enriching interest or as part of a progression towards a career within the creative industries.

The AS course starts with a range of varied and challenging workshops which develop key skills and knowledge fundamental to the world of Art and Design. The course gradually builds around each student, to meet your creative interests and needs.

We begin the year with varied approaches to observation and drawing through which your visual understanding will improve. During a series of workshops you will explore a range of two-

dimensional materials and approaches, such as tone, mark making, ink, mixed media, colour and painting.

The workshops are structured to encourage personal confidence in your own preferences and interests. You will explore how a range of modern and historic artists have communicated ideas through their imagery and techniques.

Your sketchbook documents your evolving skills and knowledge along with new artistic terms and ideas, which

you will record through your own style of note taking. By the end of the first year you will have developed a body of coursework which explores personal ideas through to a final outcome.

The A2 Fine Art course builds on your learning in the AS Fine Art year. There is one personally negotiated, more focused coursework project and one exam project. Experimental drawing practical workshops are held throughout the year, encouraging you to take risks and work in new and different ways.

As well as being creative, there is a small written element. The A2 year is supported by group presentations, strengthening your analytical skills through both discussion and written work, preparing you well for Higher Education. Towards the end of the A2 course you are given eight weeks lecture time to prepare for a 15 hour exam. The preparation time forms a personal project responding to a chosen exam theme; the 15 hour exam time is used to create a final piece which resolves this project.

A Level Illustration/Graphics

Do you possess a lively, enquiring mind? Do you enjoy developing your ideas through drawing and utilising a range of processes towards a final product? During the Illustration/Graphics course you will learn to develop design solutions, exploring the power of visual communication as an invaluable commercial tool. The course is structured to support and develop your confidence and individual strengths, from illustrative and traditional studio-based skills through to more graphic and digitally-based practice, allowing for a broad and creative approach to design.

You will begin the AS course with range of varied and challenging workshops, developing fundamental skills and knowledge integral to the world of illustration and design. Workshops are a mix of traditional and contemporary processes; these include experimental drawing and playful image making for students who wish to take the more traditional approach. Digital workshops offer all students access to develop skills in industry-standard software including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. Other aspects you will explore include typography, thumbnail sketches, layout design, mixed media, extending these further through digital media. You will research a range of illustrative and graphic styles, applying this knowledge to develop your individual practice.

The research and development of your concepts and designs are gathered in your sketchbook. Documenting and constantly reflecting on your creative development, you will become skilled in communicating ideas visually, to meet your clients’ needs. By the end of the AS year you will have produced a body of coursework that documents your creative thinking and design process.

The A2 Illustration/Graphics course builds on your learning in the first year. There is one personally negotiated, more focused coursework project and one exam project. As well as building on your evolving visual identity, there is a small written element; this is supported by group presentations, strengthening your analytical skills through both discussion and written work.

Towards the end of the A2 course you are given eight weeks lecture time to prepare for a 15-hour exam. The preparation time forms a personal project responding to a chosen exam theme; the 15 hour exam time is used to create a final piece which resolves this project.

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UAL Level 1 Diploma Art & Design

The Art and Design Progression 1 pathway will provide you with the opportunity to explore your interest in creative art and design through a series of projects. You will be provided with project briefs where you will develop skills and knowledge of art and design techniques, processes and tools while focusing on a set theme.

The themes set for your project briefs will be broad and will enable you to develop work individually to your strengths and tastes. On Progression 1 Art and Design you will develop a range of art and design skills using a variety of methods and techniques such as drawing, painting, sculpture, mixed media, stitch and graphics.

Your skills and knowledge will be linked to research that you will complete about artists and designers that relate to the projects. The research into artists and designers will be used to inspire and extend your artwork and your knowledge of art and design. The project briefs provided will relate to an art and design area of work and will provide the basis for you to extend and develop your skills, knowledge and ideas individually, working in a team and to a time scale. All projects are coursework based.

English and maths will be included in this programme up to Level 2. You will study GCSE and/or Functional Skills to ensure that you have the entry requirements to progress onto a Level 2 course.

UAL Level 2 Diploma Art & Design

This course is a fast-paced, creatively rewarding, hands on practical subject. In Progression 2 Art & Design you will explore how to successfully express your ideas visually and how to develop your practical skills in different artistic techniques and processes.

The UAL Level 2 Art and Design Diploma encourages you to be experimental with your approach and to explore lots of visual ideas which will lead to you making exciting two-dimensional and three-dimensional finished work.

You will have the opportunity to explore and discover new ways of working with methods of production and specialist techniques in areas such as drawing, painting, printmaking, graphic design, digital image making, textiles, sculpture and ceramics.

You will also research the lives and work of other selected artists and designers related to each project. This research will inspire and inform your own creative outcomes, alongside developing your verbal and written analytical skills and use of formal art and design language. You will have the opportunity to exhibit your artwork at different points throughout the year which culminates in a large external exhibition of the whole art department in June.

The Level 2 Art and Design Diploma provides the perfect stepping stone to further study by engaging students in such a wide range of media. It enables you to build your skills, knowledge and portfolio in preparation for progression to the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design or, alternatively, a range of other Level 3 qualifications offered at the College.

View more course information on our website.

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UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma Art & Design

The Level 3 Diploma in Art and Design has been designed to provide you with the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to progress to degree-level study in art and design, or into employment.

It provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in the visual arts to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure that is stimulating and demanding, and provides a supportive transition from further to Higher Education.The Art and Design Level 3 Extended Diploma offers a fantastic opportunity for you to explore a range of exciting creative techniques and processes.

This course is aimed primarily at those who have recently completed their secondary education and is a practical-based programme that covers a broad range of art and design subjects.

The qualification has been written with the support of University of the Arts London Institutions including Camberwell College of Arts, Central Saint Martin’s College of Arts and Design, Chelsea College of Art and Design, London College of Communication, London College of Fashion and Wimbledon College of Art. The course will prepare you with the skills and creative thinking these institutions and other HE institutions require for their undergraduate courses.

The course will give you the knowledge, skills and understanding to explore, develop and test your creativity in areas such asfine art, drawing, painting, ceramics, glass, mixed media image creation, specialist design software, textile processes, printmaking and photography.

Interested in Photography? See the Media & Photography section on page 90.

Art & Design

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Automotive & EngineeringYou will learn and hone essential industry skills within the Gwenvor building. Purpose-built workshops and classrooms provide the resources to develop the knowledge needed for a successful career. You will benefit from the College’s promotion of excellence through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through development and experiences. Away from the College, you can follow previous students who have seen the pinnacle of technology and engineering with trips to Silverstone for Formula 1 as well as explore the combination of creativity and production with a behind the scenes look at Disneyland Paris.

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Level 1 Diploma Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair

This Level 1 course will help you to understand many of the necessary basic skills which will help to equip you for potential employment in the motor industry as a motor mechanic craft trainee. It involves the maintenance and servicing of motor vehicles. The course is taught in our well-equipped workshops and classrooms, it will involve completion of theoretical study using classroom delivery, assignments, phase tests and an online, multi-choice exam. The practical sessions require you to satisfy practical assessment criteria using pre-set tasks with the results recorded in a practical task workbook.

The units you will study include:

• Vehicle Servicing and Construction• Wheels and Tyres• Braking Systems• Steering and Suspension• Transmission Systems• Health and Safety

How is the course assessed?• Practical task workbooks• Assignments• Phase tests• Online, multi-choice exams

Progression and career opportunitiesIt is recommended that during your study you actively seek employment in the motor industry so you may continue your qualifications via a work-based route.

Level 2 Diploma Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair

This course is designed to further extend the knowledge and ability of students wishing to continue their study in vehicle mechanical maintenance and repair. The course is taught in our well-equipped workshops and classrooms and it will involve completion of theoretical study using classroom delivery, assignments, phase tests and online, multi-choice exams. The practical sessions require you to satisfy practical assessment criteria using pre-set tasks with the results recorded in a practical task workbook.

This programme involves the maintenance and servicing of motor vehicles. Topics include:

• Knowledge of routine light vehicle maintenance• Knowledge of light vehicle engine mechanical, lubrication and

cooling system units and components• Knowledge of removing and replacing light vehicle electrical

units and components• Knowledge of removing and replacing light vehicle chassis

units and components• Knowledge of light transmission and driveline units and

components• Knowledge of light vehicle fuel, ignition, air and exhaust system

units and components• Health and safety

How is the course assessed?There is continuous assessment of practical work throughout the course and end-of-unit online, multi-choice examinations. Students will also need to produce a portfolio of evidence in the form of a folder of assessed College work gained over the year.

Progression and career opportunitiesAfter successful completion of this course you could gain employment and continue further study via block release courses on an Apprenticeship programme.

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Level 3 Diploma Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair

The Level 3 Diploma is a vocational course that completes the three year training programme for practical vehicle mechanics. All units are assessed and graded and an overall grade for the qualification is awarded.

The pattern of attendance is four full days per week. The course is made up of three core and five specialist units. The specialist units enable you to study particular areas in depth. Units you will study include:

• Customer Care• Vehicle Systems• Electronics• Fault Diagnostics• Science• Maths• Light Engines• SI Electrics• Ancillary Equipment• Fuel Injection• Transmission• Braking• Steering and Suspension• Engine Maintenance Systems

The course is aimed at those who wish to develop their practical and theoretical skills to enable them to work in the industry. If you are aged 19 or over and are an experienced, employed vehicle technician, we will discuss your study options with you during your interview.

How is the course assessed?All units are assessed and graded and an overall grade for the qualification is awarded. Practical task completion and theoretical online exams are also part of the qualification criteria.

Progression and career opportunitiesAfter successfully completing this course you can progress into employment.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Vehicle Maintenance & Repair

The qualifications in this Apprenticeship are highly valued by the industry, not only in the UK, but internationally, and are awarded by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), which governs the standards required by employers across the motor vehicle industry. As an Apprentice, you could work for a dealership and focus on a particular manufacturer or work for an independent garage that services and repairs many different makes of vehicles.

The programme is ideal for Apprentices to develop the skills to repair, modify, service or carrying out routine maintenance on cars and light commercial vehicles, who are customer facing and need the skills to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Apprentices will gain excellent technical knowledge on all of the systems fitted to a modern vehicle.

DurationTwo-year taught programme including a one day induction, one day per week in College and taught sessions for Functional Skills (if applicable). The programme will include regular workplace visits, online learning and self-directed study.

Programme ContentTopics include:• Health and safety and good housekeeping in the automotive

environment• Support for job roles in the automotive work environment• Materials, fabrication, tools and measuring devices used in the

automotive environment• Light vehicle maintenance• Light vehicle engine mechanical, lubrication and cooling

system units and components• Light vehicle fuel, ignition, air and exhaust system units and

components• Removing and replacing light vehicle electrical units and

components• Removing and replacing light vehicle chassis units and

components• Removing and replacing light vehicle transmission and

driveline units and components• Identify and agree motor vehicle customer service needs• Inspecting light vehicles using prescribed methods and skills

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Vehicle Maintenance & Repair

The programme is ideal for Apprentices to develop the skills to repair, modify, service or carrying out routine maintenance on cars and light commercial vehicles, who are customer facing and need the skills to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Apprentices will gain excellent technical knowledge on all of the systems fitted to a modern vehicle.

The qualifications in this Apprenticeship are highly valued by the industry, not only in the UK, but internationally, and are awarded by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) which governs the standards required by employers across the motor vehicle industry. As an Apprentice, you could work for a dealership and focus on

a particular manufacturer or work for an independent garage that services and repairs many different makes of

vehicles.

DurationTwo year taught programme including a one day induction, one day per week in College and taught sessions for Functional Skills (if applicable). The programme will include regular workplace visits, online learning and self-directed study.

Programme ContentTopics include:• Health and safety and good housekeeping in the automotive

environment• Support for job roles in the automotive work environment• Materials, fabrication, tools and measuring devices used in the

automotive environment• Light vehicle maintenance• Light vehicle engine mechanical, lubrication and cooling

system units and components• Light vehicle fuel, ignition, air and exhaust system units and

components• Removing and replacing light vehicle electrical units and

components• Removing and replacing light vehicle chassis units and

components• Removing and replacing light vehicle transmission and

driveline units and components• Identify and agree motor vehicle customer service needs• Inspecting light vehicles using prescribed methods and skills

View our automotive workshops at our open events. See page 129 for full details.

Automotive & Engineering

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Business, Admin & LawMany careers require commercial awareness and business sense. With excellent links to local businesses, you will develop an understanding of all the resources that are required for success in the commercial world and learn practical skills which are transferable into any industry.Exploring the global world of business, past students have visited Brussels, Luxembourg, Paris and New York.

Your exploration of law and the justice system will develop analytical skills and the ability to interpret and evaluate problems. Specific progression advice will be available to you if you are seeking to continue your studies in law and past students have successfully progressed to prestigious law schools at competitive universities.

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A Level Business Studies

Do you plan on joining the world of work and industry during your lifetime? Whether setting up your own small business or working for a global multinational, many of the key areas of understanding and useful skills are introduced within the A Level Business Studies course. The course provides you with valuable insights into the world of industry including why businesses make the decisions that they do and how this impacts upon markets and individuals. The course will also help you develop numerical

and literacy skills in an applied setting through classwork and assessments. Perhaps most importantly, the course will require you to reflect upon the commercial world around you and how it impacts your daily life and future.

You’ll start off by exploring how a variety of different businesses interact with their consumers and competitors, and how they make

many of their everyday decisions. You will then go on to look at people within the work place and how a business

can get the best out of its employees. Within the second half of your first year you will consider many of the more operational and financial decisions facing businesses. This will help build on your understanding of what it takes to manage a business, the importance of the everyday decisions facing a business and how it is critical to consider a business’ finances.

Within the second year you will begin to adopt a more holistic approach to business decisions, consider all internal elements of the business together and how a business will develop a strategy from these. You will gain a greater appreciation of the choices businesses face every day and how having a future focus is critical. During the final stages of your course you will consider the global environment that businesses now operate within and how a business’ strategy must consider technological, social, environmental and ethical consequences.

A Level Economics

Economics relates to every aspect of our lives, from the decisions we make as individuals to the policies of firms and governments. The study of Economics enables you to develop a deeper understanding of the world around us that is as valuable as it is interesting.

Economics has been defined as the study of the allocation of scarce resources between competing claims and needs. The subject deals with a multitude of problems facing modern societies and governments. Economics has connections to many other subjects such as Politics, Geography, History, Business, Psychology and Statistics.

You will begin by exploring the nature of markets and their role in allocating resources in a modern economy. You will use the concepts of supply and demand to analyse markets. You will also investigate the central role of the government when markets fail.

Next, you will examine the performance of the UK economy. Here you will be introduced to how levels of macro-economic activity are determined and also investigate key national and international economic indicators, policies and problems.

Later, in Year 2 you will focus on an understanding and analysis of the labour market and business structures. You will investigate the role of the government and examine key issues and policies effecting economic performance.

Finally the performance of the national and global economy is studied, which gives an overall context and framework for economic analysis in an integrated and globalised world. Key topics here include international trade, development, sustainability, the financial sector and globalisation.

Teachers bring a passion that challenges and inspires learners to make rapid progress.

Ofsted 2016

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A Level Law

Law pervades every aspect of our lives, ranging from the personal decisions we make as individuals to purchase that concert ticket, to the perhaps more fundamental question of whether a person suspected of historic child abuse should stand trial, despite suffering from dementia.

Studying Law will encourage you to engage more fully and critically with current affairs and to develop relevant skills in research, communication, analysis and information and communication technology. In particular, there will be opportunities to hone your debating skills as well as a chance to experience the practical aspects of advocacy. Law is a natural partner to the study of English Language and Literature and other modern foreign languages at A Level, but the syllabus content also connects well with other subjects such as Politics, Psychology and Sociology.

You will begin by examining how the English Legal System works. This will give you an understanding of how our law has developed over the centuries to provide us with different sources of law, how these laws are made and applied, and by whom. We will also

consider why it is necessary to keep the law up to date to accommodate the changing views of our society and how this can be effected.

During the course of the year, you will be offered trips to visit the Westminster Parliament and the Supreme Court of Justice as well as a trip to Europe to see first-hand the institutions that

make EU Law for us. On a more local level, at the end of the first year, all students will benefit from opportunities to

attend the Crown Court to witness the criminal process in action.

Later, in the second year, your focus will be on Criminal Law and Justice. You will examine the different forms of homicide and will consider the circumstances which can lead to a charge of, for example, Actual Bodily Harm (ABH) or Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). At the same time, we will look at a range of different defences and evaluate the effect of successfully raising a particular defence on the charge. Alongside this, you will learn about the role of the police during the different stages of the criminal investigation and will gain an appreciation of the various sentences which may be imposed on a convicted defendant.

Level 3 Extended Diploma Business

Business is an incredibly important part of everyone’s life. From the moment you get up in the morning you engage with business (turn on the light and you’re the customer of an electricity company!). Almost all organisations nowadays work on “business lines” in some way and, as an employee, no matter what your career you’ll probably have to employ some business techniques.

The BTEC Extended Diploma course is designed to not only teach you about modern business, but also equip you with skills that will make you more employable and a better Higher Education candidate. The lessons are taught over four days per week, which will give you the opportunity to gain some valuable work experience, enhancing your CV or Higher Education application.

You’ll start by learning the basics of business: What are the various types of business? What is a limited company? What is a partnership? Why do some businesses need to employ more managers than others? Who and what influences what a business does? What resources do you need to run a business? What is marketing and why is it so important? Why might you like certain adverts more than others? How do you communicate effectively when working in business? Why is communication so important if you want your business to succeed?

All of this will be taught through the mandatory subject units, which all students in all schools and colleges take, designed to give you confidence in basic business concepts and techniques. You’ll then go on to take a wide variety of optional subject units which cover different aspects of business. These can include recruitment and selection, health and safety, accounting, international business, fashion retailing and running a live business event. Along the way you’ll gain skills and experience in marketing, information and communication technology, presentations and recruitment interviewing.

Find out how to apply on page 128.

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Accounting

The aim of this level of the AAT Apprenticeship is to introduce an Apprentice to basic accounting and finance skills. You’ll develop your skills in finance administration: double-entry bookkeeping, basic costing principles and purchase, sales and general ledgers.

Benefits of ApprenticeshipIt will provide the grounding for the higher levels of the AAT Apprenticeship and support you with your first steps in your finance career.

DurationThis level of Apprenticeship will take a minimum of one year.

Programme ContentThe Intermediate Level consists of five units:

• Basic costing• Computerised accounting• Work effectively in accounting and finance• Processing bookkeeping transactions• Control accounts, journals and the banking system

On completion of the Intermediate Apprenticeship, you’ll be awarded with the Level 2 Certificate in Accounting.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Business Administration

This course is for administrators, office staff, personal assistants, secretaries and all administrative roles where organisation, planning, systems, communication, IT, dealing with customers, supporting team members and managers and producing accurate correspondence are important.

Benefits of ApprenticeshipAchieving the programme will enable you to:

• Learn, develop and practise the skills required for employment and/or career progression

• Gain a nationally recognised qualification valued by employers• Make a valuable contribution to your organisation with a

breadth of proficient skills

DurationOne year

Programme Content• Office practices• Professional telephone skills, including dealing with customer

queries and complaints• Dealing with difficult people• Communications skills• Producing business documentation• Managing personal performance including SMART targets• Time management• Making a positive contribution to your business or organisation• Sales techniques and maximising sales• Developing working relationships• Event management• Health and safety

What is involved?• A one-day induction and 13 days at College• Typically up to three days College attendance for each

Functional Skill (if required)

What next?On completing the Level 2 and with the recommendation from the tutor and support from the employer, you can progress to an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Business, Admin & Law

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Retail Skills

This course is ideal for individuals new to, or without a formal qualification in retail who are looking to boost their careers through developing a range of skills suitable for a wide range of retail outlets, from small shops, large shops, superstores and department stores.

It will suit those who wish to learn the skills required to enjoy an exciting career opportunity. The qualifications in this Apprenticeship are highly valued by the retail industry.

Programme Content• Giving customers a positive impression of yourself and your

organisation• Dealing with customer queries and complaints• Customer service in the retail sector• Sales techniques• Display stock to promote sales• Visual merchandising• Helping customers to choose products• Working effectively in a retail team• Time management• Stock control, security and loss prevention• Point-of-sale procedures for age-restricted products• Retail consumer law• Stock control, security and loss prevention• Problem solving, decision-making and influencing skills• Handling and processing customer payments for purchases• Understanding how a retail business maintains health and

safety on its premises• Professional telephone skills• Customer queries, complaints and dealing with conflict

Learners will develop evidence in the workplace through a portfolio. An assessor will visit the apprentice in the workplace typically every eight weeks to support the apprentice and maintain an effective relationship between the employer, the apprentice and the College. The Certificate in Retail Knowledge is assessed through multiple-choice tests. Once all elements have been achieved, the Apprenticeship will be awarded.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Accounting

The aim of this level is to enhance the skills developed in the The aim of this level is to enhance the skills developed in the Level 2 Apprenticeship. You will cover more complex financial processes, including final accounts for sole traders and partnerships, reports and returns and professional ethics.

Benefits of ApprenticeshipThe Advanced Apprenticeship offers you the skills and knowledge to develop as a finance professional.

DurationThis level of Apprenticeship will take a minimum of one year.

Programme ContentThe Advanced Level consists of six units:

• Accounts preparation• Prepare final accounts for sole traders and partnerships• Cost and revenues• Professional ethics• Indirect tax• Spreadsheets software

On completion of the Advanced Apprenticeship, you’ll be awarded with the Level 3 Diploma in Accounting.

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I chose this College because the facilities are great and the course looked really interesting. I really enjoy the practical elements of the course, doing clients hair in the salon and seeing them leave with a smile on their faces as they love what we have done.

Jasmine Savage from PenzanceHairdressing Level 2 Diploma

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Business Administration

Perfect for administrators, office supervisors, administration supervisors, personal assistants, secretaries and all administrative roles, the course deals with internal and external correspondence; organising meetings and events; producing documents; managing resources; managing office equipment; managing information; managing administration systems; managing office facilities; developing presentations; taking minutes at meetings; managing diaries; producing documents and transcribing notes.

Programme Content• Customer service structure• Continuous improvement processes• Concepts and practices underpinning customer service

delivery• Service profit chain• Relationship of customer service and business brand• Monitoring and reviewing business performance• Communication models• Negotiation skills• Bespoke business documentation• Minute taking• Information systems and use of IT systems• Creating, managing and monitoring systems• Characteristics of business markets, business innovation,

financial management, budgeting• Legislation and the impacts on customer service• Health and safety• Event organisation• Develop and deliver

presentations• Principles of marketing• Communication media• Sales and negotiation• Analysis and presentation of

business data• Chair, lead and manage

meetings• Managing an office facility• Supervising an administrative

team• Resolving business problems

and improvement techniques and models• Principles of change management• Planning, managing and implementing change• Personal and professional development needs• Organisational and personal aspects of equality, diversity and

inclusion

Earn while you learn with an Apprenticeship. On the job training means that you get paid and get qualified.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Legal Administration

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Legal Administration was created in partnership with CILEx (The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives), with the aim to allow learners to gain the knowledge and in-depth understanding of the legal environment and its associated specialist areas.

The Advanced Apprenticeship will suit individuals who already work or are starting a role as a senior administrator or secretary in a business or legal environment.

Programme Content• Legal Text Processing and Legal Audio Processing - to

develop the additional skills necessary to accurately produce professional documentation appropriate for the legal and business environment

• Business Skills in the Legal Environment - to develop the knowledge and skills to evaluate business management systems and identify and monitor the application of relevant legislation in the legal environment

• Proofreading in the Legal Environment - to develop the knowledge and skills to accurately proofread and amend documentation appropriate for the legal and business environments

• Legal Presentation Techniques - to develop the knowledge and skills to use advanced features of presentation software to manipulate data within the context of the legal environment

• Legal Terminology - to develop the knowledge and recognition of legal terminology and abbreviations within the context of the legal environment

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Legal Administration has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in a business or legal environment as a senior administrator or secretary. This course will also suit existing secretaries/administrators to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or to progress onto further study.

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Marketing

This programme is for individuals working in a marketing role within a marketing team or with responsibility for marketing as part of their role. You could be new to marketing or without any formal training in this area.

Programme ContentThe Marketing Apprenticeship includes developing a marketing plan for your business and:

• Introduction to marketing• Market research - conducting market research, principles and

practice• Marketing strategy and planning• Analysing competitor activity• Contributing to the development of a marketing plan• The marketing mix - 7 Ps• Digital marketing - using digital and social media in marketing

campaigns - platforms, social media• Marketing promotion• Managing supplier relationships and coordinating events• Using the marketing budget effectively• Evaluating and improving own performance in a business

environment• Working with other people in a business environment• Legal, regulatory and ethical requirements in sales or

marketing• Principles of marketing and evaluation• Principles of personal responsibilities and how to develop and

evaluate own performance at work• Understanding the relationship between sales and marketing

A marketing expert will deliver the programme and you will also be supported with visits while at work to coach and apply the skills in the workplace. Work-based assignments and online learning needs to be completed to achieve the Apprenticeship.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Medical Administration

Following close collaboration with the Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers, Administrators and Receptionists (AMSPAR), this Advanced Apprenticeship has been designed for those wanting to provide administrative or secretarial support within the healthcare sector.

The Apprenticeship will equip learners with the knowledge required to assist a professional healthcare team, while allowing them to gain specialist skills in areas ranging from medical terminology to medical word processing.

Programme ContentThe programme has a range of elements, which can be further tailored if required, including:

• Medical Terminology - this will enable learners to demonstrate a high level of knowledge in the field of medical terminology

• Medical Principles for the Administrator - will enable learners to understand health promotion and the role of the medical administrator in giving advice on health

• Medical Administration - will equip learners with specialised medical knowledge of administration in a healthcare environment

• Managing Communication in a Medical Environment - will enable learners to develop an understanding of the communication skills necessary to work in a healthcare team

• Medical Word Processing and Audio Transcription - will enable learners to develop the knowledge and skills to accurately produce professional documentation appropriate for the medical environment

• Presentation Software - this will enable learners to develop their skills and knowledge to confidently produce, amend and present PowerPoint presentations

The Level 3 Diploma in Medical Administration has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment as a medical secretary/administrator or for existing secretaries/administrators to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress to further study.

Business, Admin & Law

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Care, Community & EducationAs a caring individual it is vitally important that you have the necessary qualifications to play a role in shaping the lives of others.We will help you gain the skills you need to benefit society, helping others through support and education and being able to fulfil the growing demand for high quality, caring professionals. Alongside specialist knowledge, communication and organisation, you will develop your empathy and compassion to excel in a rewarding career.

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Level 1 Progression Exploring the Caring Sectors

If you want a career where you can progress, feel secure and get an enormous sense of personal achievement from knowing you are positively supporting individuals with a range of health and social care needs, then this course is for you. This course will also develop the required skills, knowledge and expertise to succeed in this sector.

With a huge demand for workers, plenty of opportunities for progression and a job in which a high percentage of workers report they feel their work makes a difference, the BTEC Level

1 Certificate in Exploring the Caring Sectors has lots to offer.

Our course will help you to develop these qualities and give you an introduction to a range of careers within this sector. The knowledge base you will develop, such as care values, communication skills, promoting health and wellbeing and understanding the importance of delivering

individualised care within a diverse multi-cultural society, is not only vitally important but essential to progress a career

within the wider sector.

If you enjoy studying a variety of subjects chosen to help develop your confidence, understanding and skills and then applying them, this course could be for you. Topics such as an Introduction to the Caring Sectors and Communication are examples of the units you will study over the one-year course.

For you to succeed on this course you will need to be prepared to take on new challenges, but most importantly work hard.

Your learning will be through lectures and practical sessions. You will be expected to conduct self-directed study and research, and attend presentations by various service providers.

Assessment is continuous through the course and consists of projects, presentations and written assignments.

Level 3 Extended Certificate Health & Social Care

Are you interested in people? Do you wonder about the individuals who make up our society? Do you think about the different lives they have and the various forms of support and care they need?If so, then a qualification in health and social care could be for you.

If you prefer to keep your options open and do not wish to commit to a full-time Health and Social Care Extended Diploma, then this could be the course for you. It is taken as part of an A Level programme, where you study the course alongside three other A Levels. As the topics in health and social care are so wide ranging, it would work with many different combinations of A Levels, whether you are interested in the humanities or sciences, or a mixture of subjects.

On the Extended Certificate, you will study four units that will be assessed through a combination of exams and coursework.

Topics include:Human Lifespan Development, which considers factors that effect the development of individuals at different points in life, from birth to later adulthood.

Working in Health and Social Care explores what it is like to actually work in the sector, including the roles and responsibilities of workers and organisations.

Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs looks at the principles and practicalities that underpin meeting individuals’ care and support needs, which are the foundation of all the care disciplines.

Finally, you will take an optional unit from a range of specialist topics within health and social care offered by the team.

Support and care for learners are outstanding and are based on a strong mix of nurture and challenge.

Ofsted 2016

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Level 2 Progression Health & Social Care

This qualification aims to give you the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge that are used within the health, social care and childcare sectors. Units you will study include:

• Introduction to working with children and young people• Introduction to a healthy lifestyle• Principles of health promotion• Working within social care

BTECs are vocationally-related qualifications, where learners develop knowledge and understanding by applying their learningand skills in a work-related context. They are effective because they engage you to take responsibility for your own learning and to develop skills that are essential for the workplace. These skills include: team working; working from a prescribed brief; working to deadlines; presenting information effectively; and accurately completing administrative tasks and processes.

The BTEC First Certificate aims to:

• Inspire and enthuse you to consider a career in the health and social care sector, or in a related sector where knowledge of health and social care will be of use, such as early years

• Give you the opportunity to gain a broad understanding and knowledge of, and skills in, the health and social care sector, e.g. the underpinning care values and an understanding of the different life stages that individuals go through

• Support progression to a more specialised Level 3 vocational or academic health and social care course or an Apprenticeship or, more broadly, progression to qualifications in other sectors, such as early years;

• Give you the potential opportunity, in due course, to enter employment within a range of junior job roles across the health and social care sector

The Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Certificate has been developed to meet the needs of learners with a range of educational requirements. These include learners who are working towards achieving Level 2 English and/or mathematics qualifications in a post-16 setting and wish to complement their study programme with a qualification that supports preparation for work or progression.

Level 2 Progression Children’s Play, Learning & Development

Would you like to work with children in the future? If you enjoy being with babies and infants and have perhaps done a placement at a nursery or school, then this might be the right course for you.

You will study towards a BTEC First Certificate in Children’s Play, Learning and Development alongside GCSEs in English and Mathematics. BTEC Firsts provide a good introductory understanding of a vocational area and gives you a clear progression route to a Level 3 course or an Apprenticeship. This course will give you a good insight into important areas that you need to know about to work with children such as child development and how to promote development through play.

The focus is on the skills you need for work with children from birth to eight-years-old. This includes exploring career pathways, nutrition for children, how to develop children’s language and literacy skills and promoting positive behaviour. You will be closely supported through the course by a small team of tutors including your personal tutor and a specialist from the early year’s sector.You will also have the opportunity to gain some experience in an early years’ setting with the backing of our work placement officer.

You will be assessed through a mixture of assignment work and examinations, for which you will be carefully prepared beforehand. Successful completion of the course alongside your GCSEs in English and Mathematics will enable you to progress to a more specialised course, such as the Level 3 CACHE Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator) at Penwith College. It will also give you the potential opportunity to gain an Apprenticeship or employment in the early years’ sector in due course.

View more course information on our website.

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CACHE Level 3 Diploma Childcare & Education (Early Years Educator)

Would you like to work with children in the future? If you enjoy being with babies and infants and have perhaps done a placement at a nursery or school, then this might be the right course for you. It will enable you to work in early years’ education and care sectors.

It is suitable for those who wish to access Higher Education, including students who wish to study primary teaching, or enter the workforce as an early years educator. It gives you the knowledge and experience that will allow you to work with children from birth to seven years, and also gain entry to university with UCAS points as you can achieve up to 420 UCAS points. This is equivalent to three A Levels at A*.

On completion of the CACHE Level 3 Early Years Educator qualification, you will have been trained to the highest of standards, equipping you with the best early years’ qualifications available. These are now the must-have qualifications for all those wanting to work at Level 3 with children from birth to five years of age, and will provide the full and relevant status of being an early years educator. It will also give you excellent experience academically and practically for you to continue into Higher Education, especially into teaching.

You will be required to complete 750 hours of work placement which is also an important part of the assessment. The College will find placements for you in a variety of settings covering birth to seven years. You will be involved in charity events, numerous visits and team building events will be held during the course to enrich your overall experience.

Level 3 Extended Diploma Health & Social Care

We have become a more caring society. It is not just that people live longer; even since you were young, lifestyles have significantly changed and this has meant a greater need for skilled staff to care for a wide variety of people who have basic health problems or are at risk within our society.

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is a qualification for people who wish to follow a career in the caring services, and is equivalent to three A Level qualifications. The course will give you a broad-based introduction to careers in the health and social care sectors.

The BTEC Level 3 qualification in Health and Social Care provides much of the underpinning knowledge for the National Occupational Standards in Health and Social Care/Health and consequently acts as a robust introduction to both sectors. It prepares you for both employment in the sectors or for Higher Education. It is also mapped to the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework, which was developed as part of the Agenda for Change process for updating the way NHS staff roles are defined and developed.

You will benefit from studying a number of mandatory units as well as a wide range of optional and specialist optional units according to the route you choose in your second year. You will also benefit from gaining work experience in the sectors. These opportunities will aid your career choices and potentially attract learners into the sectors. The Extended Diploma also lends itself to creative delivery, using your work experience as a focal point and enabling learning to be as active, practical and work-related as possible.

Alongside this, it provides robust opportunities for you to gain knowledge and understanding of a wide range of subject areasrelating to health and social care. The BTEC Level 3 qualification in Health and Social Care encourages a holistic approach with strong links identified between the delivery and assessment of appropriate units. A key feature is also the opportunity throughout the duration of the programme for you to produce a personal and professional development portfolio, which links many aspects of your programme, as well as experiences outside the programme, for example whilst on work placement.

Care, Comm

unity & Education

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The College feels like a warm and welcoming place, all the lecturers really want you to reach your greatest potential. It’s great getting to meet new people, learning about society in a way that makes me feel more prepared for the future. I really think this is the best place for me right now and I can’t imagine achieving or doing the same things anywhere else.

Daniel Reilly from Carbis BayEconomics, Law, Mathematics and Further Mathematics A Levels and the Academic Academy

Previously from St Ives School

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Health & Social Care

The Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care was created in partnership with City & Guilds, with the aim of allowing learners to gain the knowledge and in-depth understanding of the health and social care environment and its associated topics. The Intermediate Apprenticeship will suit those new to the sector or those who currently work in a health and social care role.

DurationThis is a 12 to 18 month programme of study, depending on experience and progress.

Programme ContentThis is an industry recognised qualification that provides a broad and thorough training programme for anyone newly working within this sector or existing care workers wanting to advance their skills and knowledge and learn more about the care sector. Topics could include: • Understand person-centred care planning• Understand the role of the social care worker and your role as

a professional practitioner• Introduction to the duty of care• Introduction to equality and inclusion• Principles of safeguarding and protection• The importance of handling information

The taught programme will also include:• Mental Capacity Act/Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards -

Reviewing legislation and the impact on the sector• Dementia - The impact of this disease on all aspects of care

and support • Mental Health - Forms of mental health and the impact on

individuals and others in their social networks• Safeguarding and Person Centred Planning - The importance

of these within the context of the new care act• End-of-Life - Perspectives on death and dying, aims and

principles of end of life care Learning disability and dementia pathways are available upon request. Sessions are reviewed regularly and updated to meet the requirements of employers and learners. This is in line with sector changes and the focus of legislation and good practice requirements.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Children & Young People’s Workforce

The Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in Children and Young People’s Workforce was created in partnership with City & Guilds, with the aim of allowing learners to gain the knowledge and in-depth understanding of the childcare sector.

The Intermediate Apprenticeship will suit those new to the childcare sector or for those who have limited responsibilities and are working under close supervision

DurationThis is a 12 month programme of study and learners must be working 30+ hours in the sector.

Programme ContentThis is a nationally recognised qualification that provides a broad and thorough training programme for all early years and childcare professionals and covers topics, such as:

• Safeguarding the Welfare of Children and Young People - Reviewing legislation and guidelines. How to respond to evidence or concerns that a child or young person has been abused including e-safety

• Child and Young Person Development - Understand the main stages of child development 0-19 years

• Introduction to Equality and Inclusion - Understand how to work in an inclusive way

• Health and Safety - Understand policies and procedures and recognising risks and hazards

• Partnership Working - Understand the importance of partnership with carers

• Communication - Barriers and strategies to improve communication

• Support Relationships with Children and Young People - Understand how to maintain and support relationships

Sessions are reviewed regularly and updated to meet the requirements of employers and learners. This is done in line with sector changes and the focus of legislation and good practice requirements.

Care, Comm

unity & Education

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools

The Intermediate Level Apprenticeship for Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools is designed for learning support staff whose responsibilities at work are closely supervised.

They will be working under the direction of the class teacher whose lesson planning and day-to-day direction set the framework within which the individual works. Job titles include: teaching assistant; classroom assistant; learning support assistant; additional needs assistant; pastoral/welfare support assistant; bilingual support assistant; foundation stage assistant.

Programme ContentThis is a nationally-recognised qualification that provides a broad and thorough training programme for all those supporting teaching and learning in schools, and covers topics such as:

• Schools as Organisations - Reviewing policies and legislation and the impact on the sector

• Child and Young Person Development - Knowledge of child development from birth to 19, and the factors, including transitions, which may affect development

• Safeguarding the Welfare of Children and Young People - Reviewing legislation, guidelines and how to respond to evidence or concerns that a child or young person is being harmed or abused, including E-Safety

• Support Learning Activities - The knowledge and skills required to support learning activities. This will include an understanding of the planning, delivery, assessment and review cycle

Sessions are reviewed regularly and updated to meet the requirements of employers and learners. This is done in line with sector changes and the focus of legislation and good practice requirements.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Early Years Educator

The Level 3 Diploma Early Years Educator Apprenticeship is for those working in a childcare setting e.g. nurseries, pre-schools, child minders, working on their own and/or supervising others. This qualification confirms competence in this area and serves as a required qualification for all new practitioners for registration and regulatory requirements in the early learning and childcare sector. The Apprentice should have prior experience of the sector.

DurationThis is a 12 to 18 month programme of study and learners must be working 30+ hours in the sector and caring out a range of duties and responsibilities.

Programme ContentThis is an nationally-recognised qualification that provides a broad and thorough training programme for all early years and childcare professionals and covers four themes:

• Theme 1: Health and Wellbeing - Supporting healthy lifestyles through exercise and food and nutrition, promoting children’s emotional well-being and understanding how to support children who are unwell

• Theme 2: Legislation, framework and professional practice - Understanding Safeguarding, health and safety, equality and inclusion and working in partnership

• Theme 3: Play, development and learning for school readiness - Understand the value of play, support children’s transition to school, develop children’s emergent literacy and mathematical skills and use longitudinal studies to observe, assess and plan for children’s needs

• Theme 4: Professional Development - Engage in professional development

Sessions are reviewed regularly and updated to meet the requirements of employers and learners. This is done in line with sector changes and the focus of legislation and good practice requirements.

Find out how to apply on page 128.

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Health & Social Care

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care was created in partnership with City & Guilds, with the aim of allowing learners to gain the knowledge and in-depth understanding of the health and social care environment and its associated topics. The Advanced Apprenticeship will suit learners if they work as a senior carer or senior support worker in a health and social care role.

DurationThis is a 12 to 18 month programme of study depending on experience and progress.

Programme ContentThis is an industry recognised qualification that provides a broad and thorough training programme for all health and social care professionals and covers topics, such as:

• Mental Capacity Act/Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards - Reviewing legislation and the impact on the sector

• Dementia - The impact of this disease on all aspects of care and support

• Mental Health - Forms of mental health and the impact on individuals and others in their social networks

• Safeguarding and Person Centred Planning - The importance of these within the context of the new care act

• End-of-Life - Perspectives on death and dying, aims and principles of end-of-life care

• Other topics such as equality and diversity, communication, duty of care and handling information are also embedded within the taught days

Learning disability and dementia pathways are available upon request.

Sessions are reviewed regularly and updated to meet the requirements of employers and learners. This is done in line with sector changes and the focus of legislation and good practice requirements.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Supporting Teaching & Learning in Schools

The Advanced Level Apprenticeship is designed for learning support staff with a working role which requires competence in a specialist area and/or across a varied range of responsibilities.They will be working under the direction of a teacher who has

overall responsibility for teaching and learning in the classroom.

They will contribute to planning, implementing and evaluating learning activities, and will work alongside the teacher to support whole class activities, as well as working on their own with individual, or groups of, pupils. Job titles may include: teaching assistant; classroom assistant;

learning support assistant; additional needs assistant; pastoral/welfare support assistant; bilingual support assistant;

foundation stage assistant; learning guide; learning coach; induction mentor; team leader.

Programme ContentThere are eleven mandatory units to this credit-based qualification, with optional units to suit your working environment. However, topics/issues studied will be broader and could include:

• Supporting disabled children and young people and those with special educational needs

• Supporting children and young people with behaviour, emotional and social development needs

• Supporting learners with communication and interaction needs• Supporting delivery of the 14 - 19 curriculum• Invigilating tests and exams

Sessions are reviewed regularly and updated to meet the requirements of employers and learners. This is done in line with sector changes and the focus of legislation and good practice requirements.

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Computing & ITWith an enjoyment of problem solving you will be keen to develop your analytical skills. To enjoy success in the world of computing and IT, you will add to your technical skills with teamwork and communication.You will have many opportunities to enrich your learning experience with fellow Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students. You could also test your growing skills against other students across the country and compete in the British Informatics Olympiad.

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A Level Computer Science

If you enjoy learning about the fundamental principles and concepts behind Computer Science and how software is engineered, then the Computer Science specification will stretch and challenge you. The course will provide you with valuable skills in a range of programming environments, how we use programming languages to solve a range of problems and how digital technology is used by others, particularly the moral, ethical, legal and cultural opportunities and risks. It will also help you to think creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically, as well as allowing you to apply practical mathematical skills.

The basis of this course is computation, both in theory and practice. Computer Science is an academic subject that requires you to be systematic and logical, and so often lends itself to the more technically minded student. You’ll start off by developing practical skills in a range of programming languages principally C# and Python. You will have the opportunity to perform systems

analysis, software engineering and program construction.

Then, you’ll move on to learn how software interacts with hardware; in particular the role of the operating system, data structures and processes, and how the principles of hardware impact on software

and data communication. Later, you will discover how different types of software drive the digital economy and the

implications of the digital revolution on the rest of society. You will also examine issues with digital security and undertake a major piece of independent coursework on a software problem of your own choice.

As computers are now such an integral part of society, people with A Level Computer Science skills are in extremely high demand. The many career possibilities that are available to you with Computer Science include system analysis, computer programming, animation and many more. Previous students now work around the world for companies ranging from Google to local businesses working with robotics and embedded systems.

Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Information Technology

The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is equivalent to one A Level and designed for students looking for a career as an IT professional. The Subsidiary Diploma has been developed to offer you challenging real world scenarios that are as close as possible to what you would experience in a working environment. Through varied assessment methods and independent learning you will develop new skills that are transferable to a wide variety of IT based careers or higher education courses, depending on the progression route you wish to follow.

Some possible career paths for IT professionals include website development, programming and network administrators. Learners with creative flair can explore career paths such as graphic designers, animators and computer game designers. For the more technically minded there are possible careers as computer technicians, network technicians and many more.

The Subsidiary Diploma covers a small selection of varied units with the aim of giving you experience of several core aspects of Information Technology. Units studied include computer systems, software installation and information systems, which combine to provide an understanding of how computer hardware and software is developed to meet user requirements in the worlds of industry and commerce. Advanced units in website design, computer animation and computer games development allow you to develop and demonstrate your creative IT skills to provide real world solutions for clients.

View more course information on our website.

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Level 2 Progression Information & Creative Technology

If you enjoy learning about Information and Creative Technology then the Progress 2 course in ICT will stretch and challenge you by providing valuable insights into how ICT is used in the world today. It is often the face and infrastructure of individuals, groups, businesses, organisations and events. If you enjoy working with images, using the Internet for research and like the idea of building your own website, this could be the course for you.

You’ll start off by exploring how ICT is used in many different ways and understand how useful ICT can be in daily life. The ability to research effectively can save you so much time and develop your knowledge of what is required to make projects work successfully. You already use ICT in your personal life, so why not consider how it is used in business? We show you why it really is a necessity. Completing the course gives an ideal opportunity to use specialist software applications such as Photoshop Pro Flash and ‘Kompozer’, which you will use to build a website for your portfolio. You will also learn some coding that will give you an insight into how the professionals do things.

Then, you’ll learn how websites are developed and understand the importance of high quality sites. Most companies today have their own website and there are many jobs today that incorporate the skills of website development.

A knowledge of what makes the computer work and what to look for when it doesn’t is also valuable to you and you will cover this when studying hardware elements of the course. You will also experience a 3D printer and obotic arms working.

Later, you will discover the impact ICT has had on the world. ICT is constantly evolving and creates many career opportunities for the skilled professional.

Level 3 Extended Diploma Computing

If you enjoy learning about computers and information technology, then the Extended Diploma in Computing will be of great interest to you. Based on our hugely successful Extended Diploma for IT, this brand new course has been completely revamped to cover the very latest subjects in computer science.

Building on your existing knowledge this course will stretch and challenge your IT knowledge and skills. Covering thirteen different subjects over two years you will study a wide range of topics including the Principles of Computer Science, Computer Hardware and Networking, Digital Graphics and Animation, Computer Programming and Games Development.

You will work on a wide variety of interesting, practical and theoretical projects. By the end of this course you will be confident in planning, designing and writing computer programmes, building websites, developing mobile phone apps, configuring and managing networks, and analysing and designing complex computer systems for business. You will understand how to configure and protect an IT system from attack and subsequent data loss. You will be able to describe the impact that IT systems are having on our world and how businesses are using the latest technologies to gain a competitive edge.

Upon successful completion of this course you will have a comprehensive understanding of modern computer science. You will be well prepared to enter the work place as an IT professional or to go on and study a computer science degree at university.

Please see the Media and Photography section for Video and Games Development courses.

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I chose Penwith because the facilities are great and the restaurant has a good reputation locally. I enjoy the respect that I am shown by the teaching chefs and the support and guidance I am given along with some freedom to try my own ideas.

Sasha Goldsworthy from HayleProfessional Cookery Level 1 Diploma

Previously from St Ives School

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ConstructionThe construction sector is vital in contributing to the national economy and in providing the essential infrastructure to support other sectors.You will learn essential industry skills within the Gwenvor building, the centre for construction and engineering. Purpose-built learning spaces provide the resources to develop the knowledge needed for a successful career.

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Level 1 Diploma Bricklaying

The role of the bricklayer is to accurately and consistently lay bricks, blocks and stones to architect specifications. They work inside and outside of properties, building and repairing walls as well as specialist brickwork such as chimneys and fireplaces.This course is the first step to a career as a bricklayer. You will gain an understanding of the construction industry and have an opportunity to apply learning in a practical and realistic way. You will follow a programme of study that enables progression to further courses and employment within the construction industry.

You will gain confidence by developing independent learning skills and will learn how craft activities are carried out safely and how they contribute to our built environment. You will be taught in our first-class workshops and will quickly start to build walls and other structures on your own and in small teams. Of course it’s not all about practical skills, employers want smart and switched on people to help their business grow, and you need to gain knowledge of how the construction industry operates in our well-equipped classrooms and computer suites.

If you are a full-time student aged 16 to 18, you will follow a study programme which will consist of your main Bricklaying course, enterprise and enrichment activities, and English, Maths and work experience. Through your tutorial programme you will also develop personal and work-related skills, which will help prepare you for full-time work after you have finished your full time training in College. You may also be given the opportunity to apply for an Apprenticeship. If you enjoy doing practical things and you are interested in construction, this could be the perfect course for you.

Level 1 Diploma Carpentry & Joinery

If you want to work as a carpenter or joiner in the construction industry this course is an ideal way of gaining experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification. The qualification has been designed around the needs of employers within the construction industry and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning.

The qualification we offer is aimed at learners aged 16 and above who work, or want to work, within the construction industry. There are two main trade areas available: site carpentry and bench joinery.

Both carpenters and joiners will need to carry out the following activities:

• Reading and understand drawings, which they then use to create a project

• Planning tasks/projects to the most effective and efficient way• Effective communication skills within the team• Have the knowledge of different types of wood and their

qualities, including grain, density and flexibility to carryout different projects

• Laying out, measuring, cutting, putting together and joining various timbers and materials

• Using a variety of different hand and power tools to the industry and safety standards

Work activities• Cut and shape timber for floorboards, skirting boards and

window frames• Make and assemble doors, window frames, staircases and

fitted furniture• Fit wooden structures, like floor and roof joists, roof timbers,

staircases, partition walls, and door and window frames (first fixings)

• Install skirting boards, door surrounds, doors, cupboards and shelving, as well as door handles and locks (second fixings)

• Make and fit interiors in shops, bars, restaurants, offices and public buildings

Construction

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Level 1 Diploma Painting & Decorating

If you work or want to work as a painter and decorator in the construction industry this course is an ideal way of gaining experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification. This qualification has been designed around the needs of employers within the construction industry and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression in painting and decorating through the study of units such as: principles of building construction information and communication, erecting and dismantling access and working platforms, preparing surfaces for decoration, applying paint systems by brush and roller, and health, safety and welfare in construction, amongst other units associated to this trade area of study.

On this full-time one year programme of study you will learn the application in theory and practical of different types of paints, paint systems, wall papers and tools, and equipment associated with the trade.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments where you will learn and develop your practical skills as well as the most up-to-date professional tools and equipment to make your study here as close to a real working environment as possible.

During the course you will learn and develop your skills in the application of paint, papers and specialist paint techniques as well as the use of associated equipment such as working platforms. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications alongside mainstream studies.

Level 2 Diploma Bench Joinery

If you work or want to work as a bench joiner in the construction industry and have a recognised qualification in Carpentry and Joinery (level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery) then this course is an ideal way of gaining experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification at intermediate level. This qualification has been designed around the needs of employers within the construction industry, in particular bench joiners, and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning in a workshop and classroom environment.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression as a bench joiner through the study of units such as: principles of building construction information and communication, set up and operate a circular saw, produce setting out details for bench joinery products, manufacture bench joinery products and mark out from setting out details for Bench Joinery products.

On this full-time one year programme of study you will learn the manufacturing processes associated with the production of doors, windows, staircases and other joinery products in both the theory classroom and practical workshops. You will also learn to use the hand tools, power tools and other equipment associated with the trade to enable you to produce quality joinery products.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments where you will learn and develop your practical skills as well as the most up to date professional tools and equipment to make your study here as close to the working environment as possible. During the course you will further develop skills learnt at level 1 in Carpentry and Joinery and develop as a bench joiner. Passing this course could also enable progression to advanced studies at Level 3. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications alongside mainstream studies.

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Level 2 Diploma Craft Masonry

If you work or want to work on a site or around domestic/industrial dwellings as a craft mason in the construction industry, and have a recognised qualification in trowel occupations (Level 1 Diploma in Bricklaying), then this course is an ideal way of gaining experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification at Level 2.

This qualification has been designed around the needs of bricklaying and craft masonry employers within the construction industry, and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning in a realistic workshop and classroom environment.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression as a craft mason at intermediate level through the study of units such as: principles of building construction information and communication, interpreting working drawings to set out masonry structures, build solid and cavity walls to form craft masonry structures, internal and external

finishes for craft masonry structures and install pitched roofing systems for small scale building projects.

On this one year full time programme of study you will learn the processes associated with the role of the craft mason including granite and stonework, brick and block laying, plastering, rendering and roofing, amongst

other tasks. You will also learn to use the hand tools, power tools and other equipment associated with the trade

to enable you to fulfil the role of a craft mason.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments where you will learn and develop your practical skills, as well as the most up-to-date professional tools and equipment to make your studies here as close to a real working environment as possible.

During the course you will further develop skills learnt at Level 1 Bricklaying and develop as a craft mason at Level 2. Passing this course could also enable progression to advanced studies at Level 3. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications alongside mainstream studies.

Level 2 Diploma Painting & Decorating

If you are already working in or want to work and develop a career as a painter and decorator in the construction industry and have a recognised qualification in painting and decorating (Level 1 Diploma in Painting and Decorating) then this course is an ideal way of gaining experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification at Level 2.

This qualification has been designed around the needs of employers within the construction industry, in particular the painting and decorating sector and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning in a realistic workshop and classroom environment.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression as a painter and decorator through the study of units such as: principles of building construction information and communication, preparing surfaces for decoration, applying paint systems by brush and roller to complex areas, applying standard papers to walls and ceilings and producing specialist finishes for decorative work.

On this full-time one year programme of study you will learn to develop skills as a painter and decorator, allowing you to work on more complex areas with more complex materials. You will also learn to use the hand tools, power tools and other equipment associated with the trade to enable you to produce quality painting and decorating finishes to an industry standard.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments where you will learn and develop your practical skills as well as the most up-to-date professional tools and equipment to make your study here as close to a real working environment as possible.

During the course you will further develop skills learnt at Level 1 in Painting and Decorating and develop as a painter and decorator. Passing this course could also enable progression to advanced studies at Level 3. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications alongside mainstream studies.

Find out how to apply on page 128.

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Level 3 Diploma Bench Joinery

This is an advanced-level qualification, therefore if you have been working for some time or want to work as a bench joiner in the construction industry and have a recognised qualification in carpentry and joinery (Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery) then this course is an ideal way of gaining further experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification at advanced level.

This qualification has been designed around the needs of employers within the construction industry, in particular bench joiners, and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning in a workshop and classroom environment.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression as a bench joiner through the study of units such as: principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work, set up and use fixed and transportable machinery, manufacture shaped doors and frames and manufacture stairs with turns.

On this full-time one year programme of study you will learn the manufacturing processes associated with the production of more complex doors, windows, staircases and other joinery products in both the theory classroom and practical workshops. You will also learn to use the hand tools, power tools, woodworking machinery and other equipment associated with the trade to enable you to produce quality joinery products.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments, including a fully operational woodworking machine shop where you will learn and develop your practical skills, as well as the most up to date professional tools and equipment to make your study here as close to a real working environment as possible.

During the course you will further develop skills learnt at Level 2 in Bench Joinery and develop further as a bench joiner. Passing this course could also enable progression to employment or further studies in construction at a higher level. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications

Level 2 Diploma Site Carpentry

If you work or want to work on a site or in domestic dwellings as a site carpenter, in the construction industry and have a recognised qualification in Carpentry and Joinery (level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery) then this course is an ideal way of gaining experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification at intermediate level.

This qualification has been designed around the needs of carpentry and joinery employers within the construction industry, and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning in a realistic workshop and classroom environment.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression as a site carpenter at intermediate level through the study of units such as: principles of building construction information and communication, set up and operate a circular saw, carry out first fix flooring and roofing, carry out first fix frames, partitions and stairs, carry out second fixing operations and carry out carpentry maintenance.

On this full-time one year full time programme of study you will learn the processes associated with the fitting of doors, door linings and frames, windows, mouldings, roofs and many other tasks carried out by site carpenters. You will also learn to use the hand tools, power tools and other equipment associated with the trade to enable you to install joinery products in a site carpentry environment.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments where you will learn and develop your practical skills as well as the most up-to-date professional tools and equipment to make your study here as close to a real working environment as possible.

During the course you will further develop skills learnt at Level 1 in Carpentry and Joinery and develop as a Site Carpenter at Level 2. Passing this course could also enable progression to advanced studies at Level 3. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications alongside mainstream studies.

See our construction spaces

for yourself at one of our open events. Check out

page 129 for dates.

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Level 3 Diploma Bricklaying

This advanced-level qualification builds on skills that students have learned in Levels 1 and 2. The Level 3 qualification encourages students to grow in confidence to develop their own ideas around decorative and reinforced brickwork, and more technically challenging work such as chimneys and fireplaces in a variety of materials. There is also a focus on repairing structures, which is an important set of skills for employment.

Students will grow in skill and confidence as they work independently and in small teams learning their strengths as they work. Where possible, students will be given experience of live building projects either through work experience or visits to sites. It’s not all about practical skills, employers want smart and switched on people to help their business grow and you need to gain knowledge of how the construction industry operates in our well-equipped classrooms and computer suites.

The main areas covered are:

• Health, safety and welfare in construction• Principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work• Repair and maintain masonry structures• Constructing radial and battered brickwork• Carrying out decorative and reinforced brickwork• Constructing fireplaces and chimneys

Level 3 Diploma Painting & Decorating

This is an advanced-level qualification, therefore if you are already working in or want to work and develop a career as a painter and decorator in the construction industry and have a recognised qualification in painting and decorating (Level 2 Diploma in Painting and Decorating) then this course is an ideal way of gaining further experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification at advanced level.

This qualification has been designed around the needs of employers within the construction industry, in particular the painting and decorating sector and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching at a more complex and advanced level.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression as a painter and decorator through the study of more complex units such as: principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work, applying hangings to walls and ceilings, producing specialist finishes for painted decorative work, producing specialist architectural finishes for decorative work, applying water borne paint systems using airless equipment and applying water borne paint systems using high volume low pressure (HVLP) spray equipment.

On this full-time one year programme of study you will learn to develop higher level advanced skills as a painter and decorator allowing you to work on more complex areas with more complex materials, equipment and products.

You will also learn to use the hand tools, power tools and other equipment associated with the trade to enable you to produce quality painting and decorating finishes to a high industry standard.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments and new painting and decorating workshops where you will learn and develop your practical skills, as well as the most up to date professional tools and equipment to make your study here as close to a real working environment as possible.

During the course you will further develop skills learnt at Level 2 in Painting and Decorating and develop further as a painter and decorator. Passing this course could also enable progression to employment or study of higher level qualifications. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications alongside mainstream studies.

Construction

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Level 3 Diploma Site Carpentry

This is an advanced-level qualification, therefore if you have been working for some time or want to work as a site sarpenter in the construction industry and have a recognised qualification in carpentry and joinery (Level 2 Diploma in Site Carpentry) then this course is an ideal way of gaining further, more advanced experience whilst working towards an industry-recognised qualification at advanced level.

This qualification has been designed around the needs of employers within the construction industry, in particular site carpenters, and provides a mix of both practical and theory-based teaching and learning in a workshop and classroom environment.

During the course you will develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression as a site carpenter through the study of units such as: principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work, set up and use fixed and transportable machinery, carry out first fix roofing and stairs, carry out second fixing double doors and mouldings.

On this full-time one year programme of study you will learn the processes associated with the production of more complex operations by fitting more complex doors, staircases roofs, and other joinery products in both the theory classroom and practical workshops. You will also learn to use the hand and power tools, woodworking machinery and other equipment associated with the trade to enable you to install quality joinery products.

Truro and Penwith College has extremely realistic simulated work environments, including a fully operational woodworking machine shop where you will learn and develop your practical skills, as well as the most up to date professional tools and equipment to make your study here as close to a real working environment as possible.

During the course you will further develop skills learnt at Level 2 in Site Carpentry and develop further as a site carpenter. Passing this course could also enable progression to employment in the industry or further studies in construction at a higher level. If you are not exempt, there is a requirement to complete Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications alongside mainstream studies.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Architectural Joinery

The Level 2 Apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Architectural Joinery) is designed to enable those who are employed as bench joinery apprentices to gain a formal qualification with training at College whilst working. This Level 2 intermediate Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are starting a role as a site carpenter or bench joiner within a construction environment, offering a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

DurationTwo years (one day a week for 34 weeks per year at college) and assessment in the workplace.

Programme ContentBelow is an exhaustive list of units which can be undertaken. Some are mandatory and some are optional which the Apprentice chooses in relation to their work activities:

• Conforming to general health safety and welfare in the workplace

• Conforming to productive working practices in the workplace• Moving, handling and storing resources in the workplace• Setting up and using transportable cutting and shaping

machines in the workplace• Manufacturing routine architectural Joinery products in the

workplace• Marking out from setting out details for routine architectural

joinery products in the workplace• Producing setting out details for routine architectural joinery

products in the workplace

The Level 2 Apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Architectural Joinery) has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the construction sector as a bench joiner or advance to further studies at Level 3.

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I love how interactive our lessons are and how quickly we have formed a strong camaraderie within our group.

Jack Ladd from PenzanceBusiness Studies, Economics, History and World Development A Levels

Previously from Mounts Bay Academy

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Craft Masonry

This apprenticeship is for bricklaying Apprentices to gain a formal qualification and training at College whilst working. This Level 2 intermediate Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are starting a role within a construction environment, offering a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

DurationTwo years (one day a week for 34 weeks at College) and workplace assessment.

Programme Content• Conforming to general health safety and welfare• Conforming to productive working practices• Erecting masonry structures• Moving, handling and storing resources• Setting out masonry structures• Erecting masonry cladding• Erecting thin joint masonry structures• Maintaining slate and tiled roofing• Producing external solid render finishes• Producing internal solid plastering finishes• Repairing and maintaining masonry structures• Placing and finishing non-specialist concrete• Installing drainage

The Level 2 Apprenticeship has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the construction sector as a bricklayer and/or craft mason, or onto higher levels of study at Level 3. This course will also suit existing bricklayers or craft masons, assisting them to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study at advanced level.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Painting & Decorating

The Level 2 Apprenticeship in Decorative Finishes and Industrial Painting Operations is designed to enable those who are employed as painting and decorating apprentices to gain a formal qualification with training at College, whilst gaining experience of the role within the workplace.

This Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are starting a role as a painter and decorator within a construction environment, offering a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

DurationTwo years (34 week courses per year with one day per week at College) and assessment in the workplace.

Programme ContentBelow is a list of units which are mandatory elements of the qualification:

• Conforming to general health, safety and welfare• Conforming to productive working practices• Moving, handling and storing resources• Applying paint systems by brush and roller• Preparing surfaces for painting/decorating• Erecting and dismantling access/working platforms

The Level 2 Apprenticeship in Decorative Finishes and Industrial Painting Operations has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the construction sector as a painter and decorator or to advance onto studies at Level 3. This course will also suit existing painters and decorators, assisting them to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study at advanced level.

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Plastering

This qualification is aimed at those employed within the construction industry that want to progress further to a professional plasterer and a master craftsman.

During the course you will gain a deeper understanding of the construction industry and have an opportunity to apply learning in a practical way in our extremely realistic simulated work environment. You will gain confidence by developing independent learning skills.

This course helps you to learn, develop and practice the skills required for employment and career progression in plastering. You will study units such as: principles of building

construction, information and communication; apply plastering material to interiors; fix dry lining and plasterboards to interiors; laying sand and cement screeds and applying plastering materials to external backgrounds within the College.

The assessment on site ensures that the skills you are developing in College are being taken on site and

you are proving that you are fully competent and skilled at your trade. You will learn how craft activities are carried out

safely and how they contribute to the construction process. The largest proportion of workers within the industry are engaged in craft occupations. All of these require self-motivation, skills in numeracy, communications and problem solving, as well as a broad range of technical skills.

DurationTwo year programme including a one day induction, one day per week in college and taught sessions for Functional Skills (if applicable). With regular workplace visits, online learning and self-directed study.

Programme ContentGeneral health, safety and welfare in construction, moving, handling and storing resources, productive working practices, applying finishing plaster to background surfaces, producing internal solid plastering finishes, producing external solid render finishes, laying sand and cement screeds to level and/or falls, applying projection plaster and maintaining equipment, installing mechanically fixed plasterboard, produce cement castings, employment rights and responsibilities, personal thinking and learning skills and CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme).

Level 2 Apprenticeship Site Carpentry

The Level 2 Apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Site Carpentry) is designed to enable those who are employed as site carpentry or bench joinery Apprentices to gain a formal qualification with training at College whilst working. This Level 2 intermediate Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are starting a role as a site carpenter or bench joiner within a construction environment, offering a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

DurationTwo years (one day a week for 34 weeks per year at College) and assessment in the workplace.

Programme ContentBelow is an exhaustive list of units which can be undertaken some of which are optional and some are mandatory dependent upon the route which the apprentice is taking (site carpentry or bench joinery) and the units which the apprentice chooses in relation to their work activities:

• Conforming to general health safety and welfare in the workplace

• Conforming to productive working practices in the workplace• Moving, handling and storing resources in the workplace• Erecting structural carcassing components in the workplace• Installing first fixing components in the workplace• Installing second fixing components in the workplace• Maintaining non-structural carpentry work in the workplace• Setting up and using transportable cutting and shaping

machines in the workplace

The Level 2 Apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Site Carpentry) has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the construction sector as a Site Carpenter or advance to further studies at Level 3.

Well-qualified staff use their considerable vocational experience well, and apprentices grow in confidence as a result.

Ofsted 2016

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Bricklaying

The Apprenticeship in Trowel Occupations is designed to enable those who are employed as bricklaying or craft masonry Apprentices to gain a formal, advanced qualification and training at College whilst gaining experience of the role within the workplace. This Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are continuing a role as a bricklayer or craft mason within a construction environment with a previous qualification offering a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

Duration18 months (one day per week for 34 weeks at College) plus work-based assessment.

Programme ContentBelow is an exhaustive list of units which can be undertaken, some of which are optional and some are mandatory dependent upon the units which the Apprentice chooses related to their own work environment:

• Conforming to general health safety and welfare• Confirming the occupational method of work• Confirming work activities and resources for an occupational

work area• Erecting masonry cladding • Erecting masonry structures• Erecting thin joint masonry structures• Maintaining slate and tiled roofing• Erecting complex masonry structures• Setting out complex masonry structures• Developing and maintaining good occupational working

relationships• Producing external solid render finishes• Producing internal solid plastering finishes• Repairing and maintaining masonry structures• Setting out masonry structures• Placing and finishing non-specialist concrete• Installing drainage

Level 3 Apprenticeship Architectural Joinery

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Architectural Joinery) is designed to enable those who are employed as bench joinery Apprentices to gain a formal qualification and training at College whilst working. This Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are continuing a role as bench joiner within a construction environment, offering a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

DurationEighteen months to two years (One day a week for 34 weeks per year at College) plus work-based assessment.

Programme ContentBelow is an exhaustive list of units which can be undertaken, some of which are optional and some are mandatory dependent upon the units which the apprentice chooses related to their own work environment:

• Conforming to general health, safety and welfare• Conforming to productive working practices• Moving, handling and storing resources• Setting up and using transportable cutting and shaping

machines• Manufacturing routine architectural Joinery products• Marking out from setting out details for routine architectural

joinery products• Producing setting out details for routine architectural joinery

products

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Architectural Joinery) has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the construction sector as a site carpenter or bench joiner. This course will also suit existing bench joiners, assisting them in gaining a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study.

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Painting & Decorating

This Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are continuing a role as a painter and decorator within a construction environment following studies at Level 2. It offers a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

DurationEighteen months to two years (one day per week for 34 weeks per year at College) plus work-based assessment.

Programme ContentBelow is an exhaustive list of units which can be undertaken, some of which are optional and some are mandatory dependent upon the route which the Apprentice is taking and the units which the apprentice chooses:

• Conforming to general health, safety and welfare

• Erecting and dismantling access / working platforms

• Confirming the occupational method of work

• Confirming work activities and resources for an occupational work area

• Applying paint systems to complex surfaces by brush

• Developing and maintaining good occupational working relationships

• Preparing surfaces for painting / decorating• Hanging standard paper wallcoverings• Hanging wide-width vinyls• Producing and applying complex stencil designs• Applying coatings by the airless spray method

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Painting and Decorating has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the construction sector as a painter and decorator. This course will also suit existing painters and decorators, assisting them to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Site Carpentry

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery) is designed to enable those who are employed as Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery apprentices to gain a formal qualification and training at College whilst working.

This Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship will suit individuals who are continuing a role as a site carpenter or bench joiner within a construction environment, offering a practical approach and a solid platform for anyone wishing to develop in this career path.

DurationEighteen months to two years (One day a week for 34 weeks per year at College) plus work-based assessment.

Programme ContentBelow is an exhaustive list of units which can be undertaken, some of which are optional and some are mandatory dependent upon the route which the apprentices is taking (site carpentry or bench joinery) and the units which the apprentice chooses:

• Conforming to general health safety and welfare• Conforming to productive working practices • Moving, handling and storing resources• Erecting structural carcassing components• Installing first fixing components• Installing second fixing components• Maintaining non-structural carpentry work• Setting up and using transportable cutting and shaping

machines• Manufacturing routine architectural joinery products• Marking out from setting out details for routine architectural

joinery products• Producing setting out details for routine architectural joinery

products

Earn while you learn with an Apprenticeship. On the job training means that you get paid and get qualified.

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EmployabilityWe welcome learners who, for whatever reason, may not have previously been academically successful. We offer you a chance to have a fresh start in an outstanding college. A competitive job market means you need to be fully equipped with employment skills to gain work. On the course you will gain the knowledge to prepare yourself effectively for employment or an Apprenticeship/Traineeship. The primary aim is to develop and enhance your skills for the working environment and improve your confidence and communication skills. If you are unsure of the career path you wish to take then we will work with you to look at your skills and qualities and match these to your ideal career.

A key part of the course will be a work placement learning opportunity in an area of your choice supported by a job coach. You will work for a real business with a view of gaining paid employment or an Apprenticeship with this company. Multiple placements are available if you are unsure of a career path and you will gain references from these businesses to enhance your CV. Employers are saying that work experience is just as important as qualifications!

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Level 2 Certificate Employability

A competitive job market presents the need for learners to be fully equipped with employment skills to gain work. Truro and Penwith College has developed a course that will allow you to remain a full-time student for the academic year or until your desired goal has been achieved. As well as job search skills, you will consider personal preparation for employment, self-improvement and effective behaviour at work.

This Level 2 programme will gain an increased awareness of the range of opportunities available in employment. Underpinning this will be SelfSmart, an online personal development tool, which will help you to better understand yourself, your learning needs and your future aims for employment and life in general.

SelfSmart is a series of easy-to-answer questions that will give you a detailed personal profile, showing you where your greatest strengths are. If there are areas that you need support in, SelfSmart will also highlight these and give you ideas on how you can improve. SelfSmart can help you to think about where you are and prepare for the next step. When you have completed SelfSmart’s question sets, you will be able to access the Your Profile section; where you can

quickly see what you are good at and the areas that you may want to improve.

Students who have yet to gain a GCSE in English and maths will also work towards gaining these. In addition to a Level 2 Certificate, learners will also undertake qualifications to support a potential move into employment such as Emergency First Aid at Work, Manual Handling, Health and Safety and Food Safety awareness among others.

Level 2 Traineeships & Open Options

If you are a Truro and Penwith College student and you are not going to progress on your course, let us help you to find employment or an Apprenticeship. Traineeship Open Options offers an emphasis on qualifications and work experience leading to an Apprenticeship, further education or paid employment.

You will be able to develop your skills to ensure that you are ready and able to obtain a full-time job or an Apprenticeship. You may decide that after your work placement, further education is required to obtain your career aspirations; as a Truro and Penwith College student you will have access to all of the relevant courses that the College has to offer. You will have the opportunity to take part in a high-quality work placement as well as gain a recognised qualification.

Although some of your time will be in a work placement, you will still be classed as a full-time student and will benefit from all the other opportunities that student life can offer, including Academies, social groups, the outstanding sporting facilities, libraries and IT suites, as well as the bursary and bus pass scheme.

Learners have high aspirations as a result of exceptionally effective careers advice and guidance.

Ofsted 2016

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English & LanguagesLanguage is intrinsically linked with a country’s literature, traditions and history. You will explore the linguistic and literary heritage of the English language, understanding how it influences all communication. Your skills of self-expression and analysis will develop as you read widely and look at the genres of poetry, prose, drama and a range of non-literary texts. As you progress in higher study or your chosen career, you will value your ability to interpret and communicate effectively in written and spoken form, which are essential skills for any profession.

The world will be opened up to you as your foreign language skills develop and you become immersed in a new culture. You will also have the opportunity to test your linguistic talents around the world, not just within Europe but further, where your chosen language may be spoken across the globe.

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A Level English Language

Imagine you could take your innermost thoughts and insert them into someone else’s mind. Well, you already have the ability to do this: it is called language. How do we learn how to speak and write? Where do words come from? Is the language currently being corrupted or is linguistic change gr8? By studying English Language you will explore these questions and more…

You will learn to analyse texts effectively while applying a range of theories and using detailed linguistic terminology. As well as texts studied in class, you will also be encouraged to select your own texts! You will explore how spoken, written and multimodal texts are influenced by context and both reflect and construct personal identities. The language analysed will be incredibly diverse including everything from a short informal text message between friends to a formal speech by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons.

You will also explore the exciting and controversial area of child language acquisition. How can children learn to form words and sentences within just a few years? Do children have an innate ability to learn language or do they simply imitate others? We will explore the views of theorists in response to such questions and we will analyse a range of texts both by and featuring children.

How has the English language changed since 1550? From the influence of Caxton’s printing press, the King James Bible and Shakespeare’s plays all the way through to the influence of the Internet, text speak (or ‘txtspk’!) and Americanisation, you will investigate how English varies globally, regionally and socially and consider attitudes towards language change.

You have plenty of opportunity to pursue your own interests in this subject. You will produce your

own creative writing in a genre of your choice and you will also conduct an independent investigation which can focus on

topics such as gender, power and journalism.

A Level English Language & Literature

Love writing? Like to analyse…well, everything? The English Language and Literature A Level allows you to be creative - not only in the fiction and non-fiction writing you will produce - but also in the creative approach you can take in your analytical work. How? This multi-disciplinary A Level imposes no rules as to how you should approach your analysis of a text. Word class? Sure. Imagery? Of course!

This A Level also differs from those focused primarily on literature by extending its coverage to explore non-literary and non-fiction texts. You can expect to study prose, drama and poetry, but also a range of texts such as articles, online copy and adverts.

Ever wondered how some politicians are so persuasive? How do misunderstandings occur when you text? This course has the answers. You will explore the nature of spoken and multimodal language: how people talk and why they talk in the way they do.

Opportunities abound to develop your creative writing in different genres, reflecting on your practice in order to become a critical reviewer of your own as well as others’ works. What’s great is that you get to choose what you write and discuss the texts which have inspired this creativity.

Writing is often more than a ripping yarn or interesting characters. You will explore how literature represents ‘Society and the Individual’ through the study of the prose classic, Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. Alongside this you will delve into the cynical, yet beautiful poetry of Philip Larkin. Through these texts you will explore visions and versions of the world different to your own - and interrogate how these writers use their work to comment on the role and the abuses of the state, the responsibility of the individual and the struggle we all face in discovering who we really are versus who society asks us to be.

This course will not only prepare you for a variety of higher education courses, but also develop your ability to think, to create, to speak, to read and to write - with flair.

Learners develop excellent communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills that significantly boost their employment potential.

Ofsted 2016

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A Level English Literature

If you enjoy reading and analysing literary texts, then this is the course for you. You will study a range of challenging and stimulating works from a variety of periods from 1610 to 2010. The course offers opportunities for comparisons between texts and genres and considers works of literature in their historical and cultural contexts. You will learn the skills of close textual analysis and literary criticism.

In Year 1 you will be introduced to dystopian fiction. A dystopia is a nightmarish society, and writers use this genre to comment on and criticise the society in which they write. You will study George Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four, a terrifying vision of the future where everyone is controlled by an oppressive government. In Year 2 you will compare this to Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale, a feminist dystopia which shares many themes with Orwell such as power and identity.

In Year 1 you will also study Tennessee Williams’ 1940s play A Streetcar Named Desire; the 19th century poems of Christina Rossetti, including her most famous poem ‘Goblin Market’, and Shakespeare’s last solo play, The Tempest, which combines magic and innovative theatrical spectacle with political commentary on Renaissance society.

In Year 2, in addition to The Handmaid’s Tale, you will study Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, a 19th century play with an ending so controversial Ibsen had to rewrite it in order to have it performed in Germany! In Year 2 you will also write two pieces of coursework. You will have a large degree of independence in your choice of texts and tasks (with guidance from your teacher).

Find out how to apply on page 128.

There are now two kitchens and a great restaurant at Penwith which are new and hi-tech. I really enjoy being in the kitchen creating delicious food for our customers.

Jacob Paull from PenzanceProfessional Cookery Level 1 Diploma

Previously from Hayle Community School

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A Level French

An ability to speak French is an advantage on the international job market. A knowledge of French opens the doors of French companies in France and other French-speaking parts of the world (Canada, Switzerland, Belgium and North and sub-SaharanAfrica). As the world’s fifth biggest economy and number-three destination for foreign investment, France is a key economic partner. That makes learning French an excellent choice for young people wanting to maximise their employment chances.

The course at Penwith College will give you the opportunity to build on your knowledge of French that you have acquired atGCSE. One aspect of the course will be to improve your language skills, which means that you will learn vocabulary based on a variety of topic areas as well as grammar rules, which will enable you to make sense of the language and to use the language accurately.

You will develop all four language skills: speaking, reading, listening and writing and you will do this by using a wide range of materials, both in and outside the classroom. Your lessons will be conducted in specialist language rooms. You will also have access to our Languages Centre, where you can get help with your homework or any other aspect of your studies. Once a week, you will have a conversation session with our French Assistant to help you improve your confidence in speaking.

The second aspect of your course will be to develop your knowledge of French-speaking countries and their culture. You will do this by studying various topics as part of your course, as well as a French film and a French book.

At the time of writing, the changes to this specification are still under review, which means that specific topic choices have not been finalised. However, we will be able to provide you with this information during all open events at College.

A Level Spanish

Did you know that Spanish is spoken in 23 countries by more than 400 million people and that it is the second most important global language with regard to international communication? It is also one of the official languages of the European Community, the United Nations and Spain is one of the UK’s most important trading partners.

The course at Truro College will give you the opportunity to build on your knowledge of Spanish that you have acquired at GCSE. One aspect of the course will be to improve your language skills; you will learn vocabulary based on a variety of topic areas as well as grammar rules, which will enable you to make sense of the language and to use the language accurately.

You will develop all four language skills: speaking, reading, listening and writing through a wide range of materials, both inside and outside the classroom. Your lessons will be conducted in specialist language rooms. You will also have access to our Languages Centre, where you can get help with research, homework or any other aspect of your studies. Once a week, you will have a conversation session with one of our Spanish language assistants to help you improve your confidence in speaking. You will also have the opportunity to take part in one of our language visits to Andalucía, in the south of Spain.

The second aspect of your course will be to develop your knowledge of Spanish speaking countries and their culture. You will do this by studying various topics as part of your course, as well as a Spanish language film and book.

At the time of writing, the changes to this specification are still under review, which means that specific topic choices have not yet been finalised. However, we will be able to provide you with this information during all open events at College.

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Food, Catering & HospitalityThe hospitality industry is one of the cornerstones of the Cornish economy and you will gain the skills needed for success.You will discover and develop new talents, working as part of a team and experiencing the buzz of a professional kitchen. Our training kitchen and Senara restaurant have already received accolades, impressing chefs and food writers alike, and you will join the successfully established team. You may have the opportunity to hone your culinary talents internationally, past students have completed two-week work placements at some of Paris’s finest restaurants.

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Level 1 Diploma Professional Cookery

This course will cover all the essential basics required in food preparation, production, cooking and serving. In addition to these two crucial qualifications for a strong starting point in all aspects to the hospitality industry, you will also undertake a Level 2 CIEH food safety and a Level 2 award in health & safety in the workplace. The course will introduce you to the basic principles of cookery used in professional kitchens including fish filleting, roasting, baking, poaching, steaming, frying, stewing and braising, as well as areas of pastry work and essential knife skills. You will work one day per week in our busy restaurant, learning barista skills, customer service skills, serving and preparing hot and cold beverages, processing payments and bookings and in-depth menu knowledge. The majority of your time at College will be spent in the College’s service kitchen and restaurant as well as the traditional training kitchen where you will develop essential basic skills. Theory work, which is related to the practical work, is taught in a classroom situation.

A VTCT qualification will enable you to gain employment within many types of catering and hospitality establishments or progress onto VRQ Level 2.

Past students have gained employment with companies such as Nathan Outlaws at St Enodoc, Rick Stein Group and the St Moritz Hotel. From Year 2, you may be given the opportunity to undertake the two-week, twice-yearly work experience trip to Paris or Brittany which all students have found to be an incredible and valuable experience.

Level 2 Diploma Professional Cookery & Food & Beverage Studies

Develop your skills knowledge and experience by doing the Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery & Food and Beverage studies. It builds nicely on the skills acquired at Level 1 so you can start a career or aim for an advanced-level qualification. You will learn all of the necessary knowledge, qualities and qualifications to work towards a post as a professional chef and/or front of house in waiting, barista or bar staff. In addition to these two qualifications, you will also undertake a Level 2 Barista Skills certificate.

Working in our two modern kitchens, at private catering events, food festivals, restaurants and bars, helps you to further develop your communications, organisational, team working and interpersonal skills. Other gains include improved time management skills, the experience of working under pressure and a degree of supervisory work. The focus on this course shifts from mastering and understanding the basic cooking methods to utilising these methods to prepare and cook different foods.

You will learn practical skills and related theory in:

• Pastry work• Larder work• Food and beverage service• Wine service• Preparing and cooking fish and shellfish• Butchery

The majority of your time at College will be spent in the College’s service kitchen and restaurant as well as the traditional training

kitchen, where you will develop essential basic skills. Theory work, which is related to the practical work, is taught in a classroom situation. In the theory units, you cover topics such as health and safety, kitchen operations, and workplace skills.

A VTCT qualification will enable you to gain employment within

many types of catering and hospitality establishments or progress onto the VTCT VRQ Level 3 VRQ Diploma in

Professional Cookery Studies or the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hospitality Leadership and Supervision. Alternatively, you could enter the hospitality industry at a qualified operational level.

View our professional catering kitchens at our open events. See page 129 for full details.

Food, Catreing & Hospitality

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Food & Beverage Service

This package of nationally recognised professional qualifications is ideal for staff working front of house within restaurants, bars, hotels and pubs.

DurationThis is a 12 month programme.

Programme ContentThe programme is made up of two main qualifications - a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Food & Beverage Service and a Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles, with units covering:

• Prepare and serve wines and cocktails• Prepare and serve hot drinks• Provide counter, buffet, take-away and carvery service • Provide table and silver service• Managing stock• Taking customer payment• Positive customer service, creating a positive impression of the

organisation• Promote additional services, up-selling and resolve customer

service issues• Maintain health, safety and security of the working environment

including food safety and hygiene practices• Working as part of a team

This Apprenticeship has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the industry as a waiter or silver service waiter or as a bar/cellar person. This course will also suit existing hospitality staff wishing to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study at Level 3.

Level 3 Diploma Advanced Professional Cookery (Tech Level)

Advance your cookery skills and aim for a position of responsibility in the catering industry with this advanced-level catering qualification. The level 3 Diploma in Advanced Professional Cookery offers a natural progression from Level 2. If you’re already a chef, it’s ideal for mastering advanced cookery skills. You develop supervisory, organisational, time-management and people skills, and you learn how to work under pressure.

On this advanced-level practical course you learn:

• Planning for preparing, cooking and finishing dishes• Food safety for catering• Advanced meat and offal• Advanced poultry and game• Advanced fish and shellfish• Advanced vegetable and vegetarian dishes

You also have the opportunity to study the CIEH Level 3 Award in Supervising Food Safety in Catering. This is a three-day intensive course for people working at supervisory level.

The majority of your time at College will be spent in the College’s service kitchen and restaurant, as well as the traditional training kitchen where you will develop essential skills. Theory work, which is related to the practical work, is taught in a classroom situation. In the theory units, you cover topics such as advanced food hygiene, supervisory skills, health and safety, kitchen operations, and kitchen management skills.

Successful completion of this course puts you in a good position for catering positions which require individual responsibility and some supervisory experience. Past students have gained employment with companies such as Nathan Outlaws at St Enodoc, Rick Stein Group and the St Moritz Hotel.

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Food Production & Cooking

This course is perfect for catering kitchen assistants helping with food preparation, cooks preparing, cooking and serving simple meals, including large volume meals service, or those working within a café, canteens, care homes or restaurants with a limited menu choice.

This is a prestigious learning and development programme, valued by employers, trade associations and professional bodies in an industry currently worth £30bn to the English economy. There are no formal entry requirements, but employers are looking for those who are keen to work as part of a team, have a ‘can do’ attitude, have high standards of personal hygiene, are excellent timekeepers and are willing to work shifts, which will often be outside the nine-to-five pattern.

DurationOne year.

Programme ContentThe programme is made up of two main qualifications - a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Food Production & Cooking and a Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles, which covers:

• Health, safety and security of the working environment• Food safety and hygiene practices• Working as part of a team• Food preparation• Promoting and presenting menus• Healthier dishes• Complete kitchen documentation• The production of simple dishes including fish, poultry, meat

and vegetables, bread and dough, rice and pastas, hot and cold desserts, cakes and biscuits

• The preparation of meals to meet relevant nutritional standards

Level 2 Apprenticeship Hospitality Services

This is a prestigious learning and development programme, valued by employers, trade associations and professional bodies in an industry currently worth £30bn to the English economy. Intermediate Level Apprentices will train in hospitality services; this can include a range of duties including serving customers, preparing and cooking food, serving drinks, reception, cleaning and preparing rooms in a number of settings including cafes, restaurants, hotels and pubs. There are no formal entry requirement,s but employers are looking for those who are keen to work as part of a team, have a ‘can do’ attitude, have high standards of personal hygiene, are excellent timekeepers and are willing to work shifts, which will often be outside the nine-to-five pattern.

DurationOne year.

Programme ContentThe programme is made up of two main qualifications - an NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Hospitality Services and a Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles, with units covering:

• Health, safety and security of the working environment including food safety and hygiene practices

• Working as part of a team• Employee rights and responsibilities• Creating a positive impression of the organisation

Optional units can be tailored to the individual’s job role and the needs of the business.

To gain the Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship in Hospitality Services learners will be expected to attend sessions at College to cover functional skills (if applicable) and some professional skills seminars covering specialist areas of hospitality services. Assessment is through various methods including practical observations in the workplace, internally-assessed assignments and professional discussions.

View more course information on our website.

Food, Catreing & Hospitality

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Licensed Hospitality

This programme is designed for staff working behind a bar or in customer-facing roles employed in various licensed hospitality premises. You may be new to the role or not have received formal training in this area, or looking to progress your skills further. This rigorous programme is for individuals committed to developing their careers and gaining nationally-recognised qualifications.

DurationOne year.

Programme ContentThe programme is made up of two main qualifications - a Level 2 Certificate in Licensed Hospitality Skills and a Level 2 Certificate in Licensed Hospitality Operations, with units covering:

• Legal and social responsibilities of a personal licence holder • Customer service excellence• Customer and drinks service, beer and cellar quality• Principles of providing a buffet and carvery service• Understanding a business market, sales promotions and

merchandising• Understanding and selling wine• Health and safety in the workplace and food safety in catering• Alcohol and drugs awareness• Conflict management• Licensed hospitality operations

This Apprenticeship has been designed to enable you to progress directly into supervisory or junior management roles within the licensed hospitality industry, or you may also choose to progress onto further learning at Level 3.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Professional Cookery

This programme is designed for staff training as future chefs in fine dining/casual dining settings in restaurants, hotels and gastro pubs. The programme provides nationally-ecognised qualifications and the professional skills to progress within the sector. Training is delivered by industrial experts, as well as providing opportunities to engage with the Rick Stein Academy.

DurationThis is a 12 month programme (including 34 weeks with one day per week in the College kitchens/restaurants).

Programme ContentThe programme contains a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery and a Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles, including:

• Prepare, cook and finish basic dishes including fish and shellfish, poultry, meat, game, stocks and sauces, bread and dough, rice and pasta, soups, vegetables and pulses, hot and cold desserts, cakes and biscuits

• Health, safety and security of the working environment including food safety and hygiene practices

• Working as part of a team• Maintain, handle and clean knives• Ordering stock, setting up and closing kitchens

This Apprenticeship has been designed to enable individuals to progress directly into employment in the industry as a sous chef, commis chef or chef de partie. This course will also suit existing chefs wishing to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study.

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Hospitality Supervision & Leadership

This programme is designed for Head Housekeeper, Head of Reception, Front of House Manager or Duty/Hotel Supervisor/Manager working in a variety of hospitality establishments including restaurant, hotel, cafes and pubs/pub chains. Normally you will already have either at least nine months experience working in the hospitality industry or have completed an Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship in Hospitality Services, or similar.

DurationThis is normally a 12 month programme.

Programme ContentThe programme is made up of two main qualifications - a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership and a Level 3 Award in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership Principles, including:

• Leading a team to improve customer service, including briefings and meetings

• Developing effective working relationships with colleagues• Training and developing the team• Improving customer relationships building repeat business• Supervising operations such as food and drink services,

portering and concierge operations, housekeeping, functions and events, reservations and bookings

• Supervising and leading the team• Developing recipes, menus and wine list• Health, safety and security of the working environment

including hygiene practices• Manage the environmental impact of work activities

This Apprenticeship has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the hospitality industry as a supervisor/manager. This course will also suit existing supervisors/managers wishing to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Professional Cookery

This programme is for staff training as sous/senior chefs, working in fine/casual dining settings in restaurants, hotels and gastro pubs. Normally you will already have either at least nine months experience working in the catering industry or have completed an Intermediate Level 2 Apprenticeship in Professional Cookery or Food Production and Cooking.

DurationThis is a 12-to-18 month programme which includes a 34 week course with one day per week in the College kitchens/restaurants.

Programme ContentThe programme is made up of two main qualifications - a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Professional Cookery and a Level 3 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles, with units covering:

• Team working and supervisory leadership• Planning and producing healthy eating• Prepare, cook and finish complex dishes including fish and

shellfish, poultry, meat, game, hot and cold sauces, bread and dough, pasta, hot and cold desserts, canapés, cakes and pastries and patisserie.

• Developing recipes and menus• Health, safety and security of the working environment

including food safety and hygiene practices• Cost menus, manage suppliers and making sourcing decisions

This Apprenticeship has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in the industry as a chef/senior chef. This course will also suit existing chefs wishing to gain a qualification that will enhance their career prospects or progress onto further study.

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Foundation StudiesWe welcome students with additional learning and support needs. Our range of courses will help you to gain skills for personal progression, whether it be accessing mainstream education or developing independent living skills.As a student in Foundation Studies, you will be part of the College’s most active group of students. You will be able to attend residentials, take part in the Ten Tors Jubilee Challenge, obtain a work placement through our dedicated job coach and most of all, enjoy learning in a fun and supportive environment.

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Pre Entry/Entry Level Independent Living

This Foundation Learning pathway is a Pre-Entry/Entry Level course and will be suitable for you if you have benefited from special education or have come from a secondary school which has been able to give you specialised educational support.You will be offered a one to three year learning programme which uses your existing strengths and is also designed for your particular needs. Groups are usually small and are supported by specialist Learning Assistants.

The qualification is designed to enable you to become more independent, take a more active part in your community, and develop your personal skills and qualities essential for employment.

You will study English and Maths at a level appropriate to you. You will also take a range of subjects chosen from the following areas: Art and Craft, studying a broad range of topics including painting and 3D design; Cookery and Healthy Living, where you will learn about healthy eating and lifestyles; Shopping, to practise money skills; Gardening, where you will learn how to maintain a garden; ICT, including using email and the internet; Sport, where you will develop your team skills; Using Community Facilities and Work Skills, which includes a regular work placement.

You will also have regular tutorial sessions where you will be able to develop your personal and social skills.

Entry Level Skilled for Life

Are you wondering what now? Join the Foundation Learning journey. Learn skills that will help you get a job, an Apprenticeship or progress to the course you really wanted to do.

You will have a personal learning plan which includes a choice of specialist subjects from Art and Design, Sport, Construction and Motor Vehicle, ICT, Hair and Beauty, Health and Social Care, Horticulture, Creative Media Production (Photography), and Retail, plus Maths and English. You will also have the chance to go into a real work place and have regular work experience. Finally, you will have the opportunity to undertake a range of enrichment activities such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, sport and recreation, and fundraising for charities.

At the end of your course you will have the Pearson Entry 3/Level 1 Skilled for Life qualification, as well as Functional Skills qualifications in English and Maths. The programme is made up of various parts, including vocational units, life/work skills units, Functional Skills in both English and maths, and a weekly work placement.

You will study a range of life and work skills units that may include Home Cooking Skills, Career Progression, Self-Assessment, Working with Others, Health and Safety and Enterprise, to equip you with useful life and work skills. Throughout the duration of the course, you will study the two Functional Skills of English and Maths plus, if you have a D in GCSE English or maths, you will be able to re-sit.

In the first half term you will begin to prepare for your work placement which you will undertake after the October half term. You will also have the opportunity to attend a regular job club run by the Brandon Trust which will help you gain employment.

You will study for your qualifications up to four days a week for one year.

Foundation Studies

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Hair, Beauty & Complementary TherapiesWorking within Inspiration, our commercial salon, you will learn with members of the public as your clients and develop the theory and business skills needed to succeed in your chosen therapy.We host showcase events given by leading experts including Steve Smart, Lee Stafford and Andrew Barton which will give you the real view of life in the industry. You will take part in the annual Cornish Skills competition, where you will display your creativity alongside representatives from other colleges and salons. We are very proud of our students’ successes who regularly achieve gold medals, and hope you will join those who progress on to the national UK Skills competition.

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Level 1 Progression Hair & Beauty

The Level 1 qualification is designed to introduce you to a range of practical skills from across the hair and beauty industry. This qualification will prepare you for employment as a supervised assistant/Apprentice or for further learning in the hairdressing and beauty therapy industries within College.

This course will lead you into the exciting industry of hairdressing and beauty therapy. You will learn different techniques of styling, plaiting and twisting, along with some basic skills in beauty therapy to support your hairdressing designs. This programme will also support the fundamental skills of English, maths and employability, supporting the career pathway of your choice. We will focus on how we present ourselves, particularly in an ever-changing fashion-conscious world. The course will also help you to develop your skills in communicating knowledge about hairdressing to non-specialists and the general public.

You will start off by exploring and learning how different kinds of hair styles are created, you will learn how to communicate with a variety of clients that visit a salon and the range of hairstyles that they have. You will be provided with opportunities to investigate and research different types of cultural hair and styles that a hairdresser will work with in a salon.

You will develop your spoken and written language to enable you to communicate in a professional salon manner with clients, friends and family that you will be working with.

You will discover how English and maths play an important part in everyday life and you will learn how important these skills are to enable you to gain employment. You will investigate how you can adapt socially, looking at different accents and cultures that you will be dealing with on a daily basis in the salon. You will undertake independent coursework and assignments on hairdressing covering different topics within the course.

Level 2 Progression Beauty Specialist Techniques

Beauty therapy is a career with tempting career opportunities. It is becoming increasingly diverse, leading to many dynamic paths of employment. It is a secure industry that continues to grow, not just with interest and wealth, but with fashion and creativity.

This qualification will provide you with the essential knowledge, understanding and practical techniques to employ your skills as a beauty therapist. Through theory and practical classes, you will learn facial skincare and massage, wax depilation services, enhancement of the lashes and brows, manicure and pedicure nail treatments, make up application and instruction, related anatomy and physiology, hygienic and safe practice, along with effective communication and client consultation, and GCSE Maths and English where appropriate.

The nature of the qualification is to prepare individuals for employment, therefore, throughout the programme of study there will be a focus upon employability and industrial awareness, to provide you with a fundamental insight into the exciting enterprise that is beauty therapy.

An impeccable appearance is a must for all aspiring therapists and this ethical code must be followed for every practical lesson. Throughout practical lessons you will be taught beauty therapy techniques by professional lecturers with extensive industrial

experience and, initially, treatments will be practised on fellow peers prior to treating external clients. The ‘Inspiration’ salons are realistic working environments where you will perform professional beauty therapy treatments for clients who require a wide range of services.

As part of your learning you will have to attend a work placement one day a week. This will

give you the opportunity to gain real life practice in a salon or spa of your choice and will build on your skills and confidence, giving you what you need for your future dream career. You will work within a realistic working environment in new, well equipped, purpose built salons, overlooking the beautiful Mounts Bay and St Michael’s Mount.

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Level 2 Diploma Women’s Hairdressing

If you are interested in having a rewarding career within the hairdressing industry and enjoy meeting people, then this is the course for you. You will learn how to create a variety of haircuts, colouring effects and styling techniques in line with current trends. You will learn the importance of having excellent employability skills such as, communication, personal presentation, time keeping, personal development, flexibility, commitment and how it impacts on your own career path.

You will begin by learning the basic hairdressing techniques that are the foundation of becoming a successful hairdresser. Your lessons will be held in a professional commercial salon environment, where you will practise your new skills on training heads in preparation for client services. You will be provided with opportunities to research and investigate the history of hairdressing and the importance it plays in today’s hair fashions. Then, you will move on to learn how to analyse the hair and skin structure. Why is some hair curly? Why do we all have different coloured hair? Does everybody’s hair grow at the same rate? You will explore these processes and how and why it all happens.

During the course, you have the opportunity to develop and research your understanding and knowledge of all aspects of hairdressing through practical and written work. You will discover the importance of English and Maths skills and the important role they play in your everyday life, from timing services, mixing and measuring chemicals, reading manufacturer’s instructions and so on. You will look at how to adapt your communication techniques to meet a variety of social and cultural needs. This is a qualification that has been specifically designed to develop your practical skills in: the creative art of cutting and dressing women’s hair; how to provide effective shampooing and conditioning services; the artistic skill of colouring and lightening hair; and how to provide a good consultation service for your clients.

As part of your learning you will have to attend a work placement one day a week. This will give you the opportunity to gain real life practice in a salon or spa of your choice and will build on your skills and confidence, giving you what you need for your future dream career. You will work within a realistic working environment in new, well equipped, purpose built salons, overlooking the beautiful Mounts Bay and St Michael’s Mount.

Level 3 Diploma Beauty Therapy (Tech Level)

The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy is a technical level vocational qualification that will prepare you for a career as a beauty therapist. This qualification will support you to gain employment as a beauty therapist, as the units contained in this qualification cover all the skills and knowledge required for this role.

This advanced course is the next step from Beauty Therapy Level 2. If you would like an exciting career in the beauty industry, this course will enable you to enter into one of the many career pathways within the beauty therapy industry. You will learn new and exciting treatments in our newly refurbished industry standardised equipped salons. The beauty industry is constantly evolving and developing, this course will give you all the current skills and techniques needed to be the best you can be. If you enjoyed learning Beauty Therapy Level 2 and would like to develop your skills to an advanced level, this course will teach you techniques in massage, advanced face and body treatments and much more, it will also help you to develop your skills in consultation and communication within the salon environment.

You will learn the techniques and theory for these advanced treatments. You will learn how the body works and the impact that your treatments have on the individual systems of the body.

As part of your learning you will have to attend a work placement one day a week. This will give you the opportunity to gain real life practice in a salon or spa of your choice and will build on your skills and confidence, giving you what you need for your future dream career. You will work within a realistic working environment in new, well equipped, purpose built salons, overlooking the beautiful Mounts Bay and St Michaels Mount. Since the start of Beauty Therapy at Penwith College, four Level 3 students have been successfully selected by Steiner to embark in a career on cruise ships. Three of our Level 3 students have also represented the College in the National World Skills Challenge competition and, to date, three Gold medals have been achieved.

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Level 3 Diploma Hairdressing (Tech Level)

The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing is a technical level qualification for learners seeking a career as an employed or self-employed hairdresser/stylist. This qualification is based on Hairdressing National Occupational Standards (NOS) and is recognised by the UK’s lead hairdressing professional association, The Hairdressing Council, as being fit for purpose for preparing you for a career as a senior hairdresser/stylist. Learners should hold a Level 2 qualification in hairdressing prior to undertaking this qualification.

If you enjoy learning about hairdressing and would like to develop your skills to an advanced level with learning about how to correct colour and learn about advanced cutting techniques, then the VRQ Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing will stretch and challenge you. It will provide the knowledge and practical skills for you to learn and develop and take forward into any area of the hairdressing industry. It will also help you to develop your skills in consultation with your client and communication within the salon environment.

You’ll begin by learning the techniques and science for these advanced techniques. You will then have the opportunity to practice all of your new skills on training heads before carrying out the chosen techniques on clients in the salon. Then, you’ll start to develop, stretch and challenge your understanding and skills by working to meet clients’ many different requirements. This will build your confidence and employability skills to enable you to find employment within the hairdressing industry.

You’ll have the opportunity to research, develop and stretch your understanding of the knowledge behind all techniques, then show your understanding through written work to support your practical skills to demonstrate your competence for each technique.

As part of your learning you will have to attend a work placement one day a week, this will give you the opportunity to gain real life practice in a salon or spa of your choice. This experience will build on your skills and confidence, giving you what you need for your future dream career. You will work within a realistic working environment in new, well equipped, purpose-built salons, overlooking the beautiful Mounts Bay and St Michael’s Mount.

Since the start of Hairdressing at Penwith College, a high percentage of students have successfully gained employment within the industry, with many now running their own businesses. Four Level 3 students have represented the College in the National World Skills Challenge competition and many have competed in regional competitions gaining numerous medals, including Gold.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Barbering

The course is for staff working within hairdressing and covers all aspects of barbering including cutting, styling, male colouring techniques and creating pattern work in the hair. You will learn the basic barbering techniques that are the foundation of becoming a successful barber. Your lessons will be held in a professional commercial salon environment.

The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Barbering is a job-ready qualification based on National Occupational Standards.

This qualification will provide you with the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills to work competently as a barber. Throughout this qualification you will ensure responsibility to reduce risks to health and safety, advice and consult with clients, shampoo, and condition and treat the hair and scalp, cut hair using basic barbering techniques, cut facial hair to shape using basic techniques and dry and finish men’s hair.

You will be supervised by expert barbering staff and assessed on your occupational competence.

DurationThis is a 15 month programme which includes a 34-week course with one day per week at College.

Programme ContentThe programme includes:

• Advise and consult with clients• Shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp• Develop and maintain your effectiveness at work• Cut men’s hair • Cut facial hair• Dry and finish men’s hair• Create basic outlines and detailing in hair• Colour and lighten men’s hair

Be part of the team and learn new skills in our professional hair and beauty salons.

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Beauty Therapy

The Intermediate Apprenticeship in Beauty Therapy was created with the aim of allowing learners to achieve a Level 2 qualification whilst gaining valuable experience working within the industry. The Apprenticeship will suit an individual who wants to start a career within the beauty industry.

DurationThis is a 15 month programme which includes a 34-week course with one day per week at College.

Programme ContentThe programme includes:

• Health and safety - To ensure that safe working practices are followed when working within a salon environment.

• Promotion of services and products - A unit that will explore the benefits of cross selling to boost salon profits

• Reception - To cover all aspects of meeting and greeting clients, booking appointments and answering the phone

• Developing and maintaining the effectiveness of an individual at work - To develop the knowledge and skills of an individual to promote harmonious working relationships

• Facials - To learn about all aspects of facial skin care and massage

• Eyelash and eyebrow treatments - A unit covering tinting and tweezing for total care of lashes and brows

• Waxing - Covering legs, bikinis, underarms and facial areas• Manicures - Including luxury treatments and effective

varnishing techniques• Pedicures - As above, but for the feet• Makeup - Covering day, evening and special occasion looks

Continued studies would enable you to confidently start your own business venture or franchise, while Higher Education courses could qualify you for teaching or training posts.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Hairdressing

The Intermediate Apprenticeship in hairdressing is designed and structured for individuals who want to work within in commercial environment while gaining while a hairdressing qualification. The course will enable you to gain the knowledge, skills and techniques to start your Hairdressing career. This qualification focuses on all aspects of hairdressing including cutting, styling and colouring in line with current trends. You will learn the importance of having excellent employability skills such as, communication, attendance, personal presentation, time keeping, personal development, flexibility, commitment and how this will impact on your career path.

You will learn the basic Hairdressing techniques that are the foundation of becoming a successful Hairdresser. Your practical lessons will be held in a professional commercial salon environment.

The Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing is a job-ready qualification based on National Occupational Standards.

DurationThis is an 18 month programme which includes a 54 -week course with one day per week at College.

Programme ContentThe programme includes:

• Advise and consult with clients• Shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp• Develop and maintain your effectiveness at work• Style and finish hair• Set and dress hair• Cut hair• Colour and lighten hair• Perm and neutralise hair• Plait and twist hair• Fulfil salon reception duties

Earn while you learn with an Apprenticeship. On the job training means that you get paid and get qualified.

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Level 3 Apprenticeship Beauty Therapy

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Beauty Therapy is the next step from Beauty Therapy Level 2. The Apprenticeship is for individuals employed in spas, beauty therapy settings or providing beauty therapy commercially.

You will be learning new and exciting treatments in our newly-refurbished, industry-equipped salons. The beauty industry

is constantly evolving and developing and this course will give you all the current skills and techniques needed to be the best you can be.

DurationThis is a 15 month programme which includes a 46-week course with one day per week at College.

If you enjoyed learning about beauty at Level 2 and would like to develop your skills

to an advanced level, this course will teach you techniques in massage, advanced face and body treatments and much more. It will also help you to develop your skills in consultation and communication within the salon environment. You’ll begin by learning the techniques and theory for these advanced treatments. You will be learning about how the body works and the impact your treatments have on the individual systems of the body. The programme includes:

• Monitor procedures to safely control work operations• Contribute to the planning and implementation of promotional

activities• Provide body electrical treatments• Provide facial electrical treatments• Provide body massage treatments• Provide electrical epilation treatments• Provide stone therapy treatments

The Level 3 NVQ in Beauty Therapy General has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in a beauty environment as a Level 3 qualified therapist.

Level 3 Apprenticeship Hairdressing

The Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Women’s Hairdressing is for those who have completed their Intermediate Apprenticeship or Level 2 and want to develop their skills to a more advanced level in all aspects of hairdressing.

The course will enable you to progress onto Higher Education or progress onto the many career opportunities within the hairdressing sector. The hairdressing industry is constantly evolving and developing, this course with enable you to gain the current skills and techniques needed to be the best you can. You will be learning new and exciting techniques in our newly refurbished commercial salon.

DurationThis is a 15 month programme which includes a 34-week course with one day per week at College.

Programme ContentThe programme includes:

• Creatively style and dress hair • Creatively cut hair using a combination of techniques • Creatively colour and lighten hair • Provide client consultation • Hair colour correction services • Develop, enhance and evaluate your creative hairdressing

skills • Cut men’s hairstyles

The Advanced Apprenticeship in Women’s Hairdressing has been designed to enable students to progress directly into employment in a hairdressing environment qualified stylist or develop managerial skill on the Salon Management qualification.

Find out how to apply on page 128.

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Humanities & Social SciencesYou will explore compelling questions that have an impact on societies past, present and future and through debate, research and study you will develop a mature, questioning intellect.You will develop your critical thinking skills, benefiting your whole study programme during your time at Penwith College and beyond university into your career. You will be able to gain further enrichment in your chosen studies by taking part in one of the regular trips to exciting locations including Toronto, Iceland and Swaziland.

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A Level Geography

AS/A Level Geography offers you an exciting issues-based approach to studying both physical and human aspects of the subject. Applying your geographical knowledge, understanding and skills to the world around you, you will engage critically with a wide range of complex contemporary issues such as tectonic hazards, climate change, resource insecurity, globalisation and superpowers.

You will make links between such varied geographical concepts through three synoptic themes embedded in the subject content. These three themes are:

• Players: Who are the different players involved in geographical issues and decisions? Why do some players have greater influence than others?

• Attitudes and actions: Why do attitudes to geographical issues vary so greatly? How does this influence actions?

• Futures and uncertainties: There are contrasting approaches when making decisions about geographical issues that will affect people in the future. The outcomes of choices made today are uncertain for a range of reasons

These over-arching themes will allow you to achieve a holistic understanding of Geography. Throughout the course, you will develop confidence in geographical skills (including fieldwork),

which are embedded in teaching and learning. The assessment of your geographical skills will be integrated with the assessment of your knowledge and understanding of Geography.

Michael Palin (former President of the Royal Geographical Society) has written that “Geography explains the past, illuminates the present and prepares us for the future. What could be more important than

that?”. Inspired by your understanding of the importance of Geography as one of the key disciplines relevant to

understanding the world’s changing places and peoples, you will also develop a sense of achievement as you grow as a critical, independent thinker and as an informed and engaged citizen.

A Level History

The study of History helps us to understand and explain the past and the present. It is therefore a fascinating subject in its own right. In addition the skills that you acquire as an historian are highly desirable in Higher Education and employment: the ability to think clearly; to weigh up arguments and to analyse. History is a popular GCSE subject and AS/A Level allows you to develop your enjoyment and understanding of major world events.

During the two years of A Level you will study the British Empire between 1857 and 1967 and The Cold War 1945-1991. We will be considering key questions such as how Britain came to assume such a vast Empire upon which the sun never set and why, having amassed such an immense Empire, Britain relinquished much of it in a 20-year period after the end of World War Two. You will study the key events in the expansion of the British Empire, the significance of individuals such as Cecil Rhodes and the impact of World War One and World War Two in the process of decolonisation.

The rise and fall of the British Empire provides an interesting contrast to the other examined module - The Cold War, 1945-1991. You will look at the origins of the ideological conflict between the United States and Soviet Union and the impact that key individuals such as Truman and Stalin had on the emerging conflict. You will examine how the Cold War developed in the 1950s and 1960s and consider the impact the escalating arms race had, as well as the increasingly global nature of the conflict. You will study the reasons for the improvement in relations during the period of détente and the reason for its collapse and subsequent deterioration of relations into the ‘New Cold War’ in the early 1980s. You will conclude your study with an examination of the fascinating period 1985-1991 which saw the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The final component of the History A Level comprises an historical investigation, looking at the history of the USA from 1754-1865.

The progress made by advanced-level learners relative to their prior qualifications is outstanding.

Ofsted 2016

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A Level Philosophy, Ethics & Religion

You might not be quite sure what Philosophy is. Don’t worry, many people aren’t! In a general sense Philosophy, Religion and Ethics addresses some of the big questions that face human beings: What is the purpose of my life? What am I? What can I know? How should I live? Why should I do what is right? What are my obligations to other people?

We try to take these problems seriously and attempt to find real answers to them. This means attempting to apply rigorous logic, finding the right types of evidence and evaluating possible approaches. It is not about sharing opinions; it is about the meticulous analysis of the problem and scrupulous attention to detail. The course will explore three areas of study:

• The Philosophy of Religion - In this unit we will consider the types of evidence that are offered for belief in God, we will evaluate both this evidence and evidence offered for rejection of religious belief. We will also consider the nature of religious argument by considering a number of possible approaches.

• Ethics - In this unit we will learn how to evaluate a number of different ethical theories as well as considering the extent to which we are free to make their own moral choices and are responsible for our actions.

• Buddhism - We will learn about the Buddhist tradition in some detail, studying the lives and contributions of important religious figures as well as the important texts and practices that form the basis of this philosophy. We will also learn about different types of Buddhism and the history of Buddhist practice.

• Christianity - Content is within the following four themes: Religious figures and sacred texts; Religious concepts and religious life; Significant social and historical developments in religious thought and Religious practices and religious identity.

Our classes often involve lots of discussion but in order to be able to discuss these ideas we have to read short but challenging texts. If you are the type of person who is accused of thinking too much, if Google can’t answer your questions and if you like spending time wondering whether your real life is the one in your dreams and that you are reading this introduction in your sleep then this course might be for you.

A Level Politics

If you enjoy discussing and learning about political issues, then the Government and Politics specification will provide you with the tools to analyse and understand politics in depth.

You do not have to be an expert in politics to enjoy and succeed with this course as we take you through each stage of the specification developing your knowledge. We start by discussing what democracy means and assessing whether it could be improved and reformed. You will learn many new concepts as you progress, such as the meaning of direct democracy, liberal democracy, power and participation, and whether voting really counts!

From this introduction you will move to analysing political parties’ ideals and policies and why parties differ from each other in their approaches. You will also study the election systems used in the UK and find out why there are debates about reforming the election system for Parliament. As the number of voters is falling over time you will look at alternative forms of political activity such as pressure groups, direct action and discuss whether there is a participation crisis in Britain.

Once you have completed the first unit of study regarding participation in democracy you will be introduced to how government operates in Britain and how well it performs. This involves debates about the ‘presidential’ approach taken by Prime Ministers and an analysis of whether Parliament performs its functions adequately. We then turn our attention to the role of the courts and how well judges uphold civil liberties and discuss the nature of the UK Constitution.

The Politics of the USA involves you studying the American political system and involves an in-depth analysis of the American Constitution, the role of the powerful Supreme Court, Presidential politics and whether Congress is the ‘broken branch’ of American government. There is a real emphasis on the cultural aspects of American Politics and one discrete area of study is ethnic politics in the USA and how different groups have shaped and continue to shape US political debate.

View more course information on our website.

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A Level Psychology

Psychology is the science of mind and behaviour. We look at people’s motivations behind a range of different behaviours from a scientific point of view, looking at data in a rigorous way. We explore research into a variety of behaviours in an attempt to find answers such as ‘Are some people just born evil?’, ‘How do you diagnose OCD?’, ‘Are each of the hemispheres of the brain responsible for different functions and behaviours and how would we know?’.

A successful Psychology student has an appetite for understanding how scientific principles can be applied to human behaviour. If you are interested in people and inquisitive about their behaviour, this is the subject for you. High-achieving Psychology students develop good analytical and problem solving skills, have a keen eye for detail and enjoy using evidence to develop academic arguments.

Psychology is unique in that it “fits” well with a wide range of other subjects from the Arts and Sciences. Whatever your career path, from medicine to law, media to business, sport to teaching or criminology, Psychology provides you with an excellent foundation and many skills.

The course involves an exploration of human behaviour and the mind. You cover topics ranging from biological explanations of behaviour to how interacting with other people can influence your behaviour. You use a scientific approach, looking at research evidence. In the second year this is applied to specific topics such as Schizophrenia, Gender and Forensic Psychology. You will learn by lectures, class discussions, working in groups, individual note taking and by carrying out your own research. It is fascinating, but hard work.

A Level Sociology

Sociology is the study of society, explanations of social behaviour and an investigation into individuals’ relationship with society. It focuses on the social world, to include the influence of families, mass media, education, religion, criminal justice system, social class, race and gender. Sociologists would claim that society is the single most important influence in your life, and would argue that our behaviour can be largely explained by social circumstances and experiences.

A Level Sociology will introduce you to points of view on society, including those which largely approve of the way it works (Functionalism) to those which argue for change (Marxism and Feminism). In Sociology much of what we investigate is open to interpretation; it is therefore desirable if students enjoy discussions and debates. You must also like reading and writing as these are essential elements of the course. By studying Sociology you will learn to think critically and independently about society and your place in it, gain the tools to think for yourself, and develop a critical and informed understanding of the world around you. As such, it is essential that you are interested in current affairs and you will benefit from keeping up to date with the news.

You will study a range of sociological theories, perspectives and methods in order to understand the nature of social life. You will answer questions, such as:

• Why do working-class students achieve lower GCSE grades than upper-class students?

• Why has the definition of childhood changed over time?• Why are there many more men in prison than women?• Why are some countries richer than others?

You will study the following key subject areas: Families and Households, Education, Research Methods, Global Development, Crime and Deviance and the relationship between Theory and Methods. Sociology is 100% exam-based assessment; there is no coursework.

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MathematicsMathematics underpins many industries today, forming foundations for technology, engineering, construction, science and medicine.You will benefit from the College’s promotion of excellence through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) through development and experiences. You could test your knowledge and ability skills against other students across the country and compete in the UK Senior Mathematical Challenge.

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A Level Further Mathematics

Do you enjoy solving puzzles and playing strategy games? Do you want to develop a deep understanding of big ideas? Do you want to know ‘why’ and not just ‘how’? Do you want a stimulating and challenging course that will develop key skills such as problem-solving, logical reasoning, communication and resilience? If the answer is yes, this could be the course for you.

Further Mathematics provides an excellent preparation for a wide range of university courses as well as being a versatile qualification that is well respected by employers. Further Mathematics is an essential requirement for many degree-level Mathematics courses. By studying Further Mathematics you will increase your knowledge and understanding of mathematical techniques and their applications as well as enhancing your

study of other subjects, in particular Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Psychology, Economics, Business Studies and PE.

Further Mathematics is a full AS or A Level qualification that you can take alongside Mathematics. You will need to be studying (or have already achieved) the corresponding

level in Mathematics. Taking A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics will give you two A Levels and will

mean that you spend about half your time at College studying on your Mathematics courses. It is also possible to take AS Further Mathematics alongside either AS Mathematics or the second year of A Level Mathematics, which will give you one and a half A Levels.

Further Mathematics is designed to stretch and challenge able young mathematicians by introducing you to new techniques and concepts, such as complex numbers and matrices, as well as studying material from A Level Mathematics in greater depth. You will be taught by highly-qualified, specialist subject tutors in classes consisting exclusively of Further Mathematics students.

If you are still not convinced then you may be interested to know that Mathematics is the only A Level proven to increase earnings in later life - by an average of 10% - although hopefully your motivation is based on your desire to study a course that is satisfying, interesting, well respected, useful, fun and full of surprises.

A Level Mathematics

Mathematics is a challenging and stimulating course that will encourage you to develop your mathematical skills, improve your ability to think logically and enable you to determine solutions to a wide range of problems. If you enjoyed studying GCSE Maths, particularly the more algebraic topics, and would like to significantly improve your mathematical skills, then this would be an ideal subject for you to study at AS/A Level.

The majority of the course is algebra based. By studying the course your algebraic skills will improve significantly as you progress through the core modules. You will learn many mathematical techniques and their applications to a variety of practical situations. This will benefit the study of other subjects, such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, Psychology, Economics and Business Studies.

The course provides an excellent preparation for a wide range of university courses such as Engineering, all of the Sciences, Medicine, Accountancy, Architecture and Computer Science. It is also considered to be a facilitating subject for many other courses. It is a versatile qualification that is well respected by employers.

If you are still not convinced then you may be interested to know that Mathematics is the only A Level proven to increase earnings in later life - by an average of 10%, although hopefully your motivation to study the course is one of interest in learning about mathematics as opposed to being purely financial!

Find out how to apply on page 128.

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Media & PhotographyBehind the camera or on the screen, analysis and creativity come together in these constantly evolving, exciting mediums.You may explore the richness of the history of cinema or explore modern techniques to capture a breathtaking moment. In the studio, cinema, outside with the amazing panorama of Cornwall to inspire you, or travelling further afield to London, Rome or New York, your view of life through a lens will be enriched.

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A Level Film Studies

If you are fascinated about how films are made and constructed then this course is for you. Film Studies is an academic qualification much like English Literature, although you will study films as texts. If you enjoy in depth research and academic debate, you will be well suited to this relevant and challenging qualification.

Over the course of the two years you will study a number of units which will test and extend your ability to recognise patterns, meaning and iconography in both contemporary and historical cinema. You will learn the language used by film scholars in decoding and analysing passages and complete films, and will compare and contrast film texts from different time periods and cultures. You could look at the ideologically significant changes in US culture as represented in John Carpenter’s Halloween (1978) and Wes Craven’s Scream (1996), where recent defeats in Vietnam and changes in gender representation had huge effects on the US fabric. Or you might look at Contemporary Mexican Cinema and films such as Amores Perros (Love is a Bitch, 2000) and Y tu Mama Tambien (And Your Mother Too, 2001), looking into Mexican identity and Ideology. One thing is certain: Film Studies A Level at Penwith College will change how you look at the world through cinema.

You will also complete engaging practical and research-based coursework which forms just under half of your grade. You have the option to use our dedicated editing suites and camera equipment in the production of your own short films, or you can use our extensive library of journals and resources to compile in-depth research documents and academic essays which display your aptitude and academic nous.

A Level Media Studies

The media is a powerful entity which plays a significant role within society. The centrality of the media to human experience - from the conduct of everyday life, to the exercise of power, to the creation of culture - is inescapable. We live in an intensely mediated world, as philosopher Marshall McLuhan famously said, “The medium is the message”.

Media Studies is now a well-established field of academic study. There is a long history of academic research in this area, dating back to the 1920s. This research draws on other academic disciplines, but has increasingly developed its own distinctive methods, concepts and theories. Indeed, Media education is an essential requirement for active participation in contemporary society: it teaches you to be a critical consumer of mass media and a more informed and engaged citizen.

Media Studies is not about watching films and reading newspapers, it is about actively engaging with media practice and production, social and cultural theory and critical thinking. This course will enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the media and its role in your daily life by providing you with the ability to deconstruct, analyse, evaluate and create media texts. You will study the way media - TV, radio, film, news, music, publishing,

social media, advertising, games - are constructed through technical, visual and audio codes to better understand the powerful and complex messages we receive as an audience.

You will also explore production processes and develop skills in photography and layout and design, using programmes such as Adobe Photoshop and InDesign, when producing your own print products.

In the second year you will develop camerawork and editing skills in the production of audio-visual work including

short films and music videos.

Drawing on the best academic traditions from the arts, humanities and social sciences whilst incorporating practical vocational skills, AS/A Level Media Studies offers a challenging and exciting course of study that will enable you to develop skills and knowledge that are crucially important to our contemporary world.

Get connected. Follow us on Instagram.

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A Level Photography

Photography is an art of observation. It has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them. It is a powerful language which speaks to our emotions. It allows us to tell our story and show others our framing of the world around us.

If you enjoy creating photographic images, then the photography course will stretch and challenge you by providing an opportunity to engage in projects that encourage creativity, investigation, analysis and experimentation as a means of developing technical and expressive skills. The course encourages the development of your own visual language while improving your knowledge and understanding of the broad visual, cultural and theoretical contexts in which contemporary photographers operate.

You will learn a broad range of photographic and camera skills - both analogue and digital - utilising traditional darkroom and digital Photoshop techniques, working with industry-standard equipment and workspaces to support you from image capture through to exhibition. You will learn how to develop your contextual understanding and record your progress and workflow in the form of a sketchbook. The course will provide you with the skills and understanding for you to develop the ability to create innovative and individual work. It will teach you to appreciate photographic theory and practice and understand the work of important artists and pioneers in the history and development of the photographic medium.

AS/A Level Photography will offer you the chance to take risks, discover ideas and realise your creative potential. The course aims to create perceptive, resourceful and creative photographers with strong transferable skills that can be applied to a range of commercial and art based careers.

Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Games Development

If you love the exciting and imaginative worlds which exist in digital games, but are not sure if you wish to commit to a full timeGames Diploma then this course is for you. This course can be taken as part of an A Level programme and will allow you to have access to the innovative and excellent teaching and resources in Penwith College’s Game Labs, It will also allow you to keep your options open and complete three other A Levels alongside it.Ambitious programmers may want to take the course alongside A Levels in Maths, Physics and Computing, whilst talented artists may choose to mix in A Level Art, Graphics and Media or Film Studies.

You will learn the fundamental skills of game development and the complex and challenging skills required to work in this fast expanding industry. Working in digital 3D is a fundamental skill in the creative digital industries and you will learn how to model and construct fully realised 3D assets.

Your practical journey will begin learning how to work in digital 3D using industry standard software and hardware. You will learn the pipeline used in industry to meet the expectations of creative briefs and will build skills to meet and exceed these goals. You will work in bespoke Games Labs with immersive surround sound and 60” LCD televisions with staff who are accredited to teach the Autodesk software you will be using. As the course progresses you will move into a development environment which utilises the Unreal 4 games engine. In this forum you will learn how to compile all of your 3D assets into a fully functioning 3D world. To begin with, you will learn how to code basic functionality in your world using Unreal’s visual scripting language, or if you have the ability, there is the option to work more rigorously in C++, which is the industry standard language for games programming.

You will also complete more traditional research and written work which explores the hardware and techniques used in game production as well as the ability to analyse and respond to products which exist in the games sphere. You will have access to the College’s hardware library which is fully stocked with the latest Next Gen consoles and hardware such as Oculus Rift head sets and motion control input.

View more course information on our website.

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I followed in my mum’s footsteps as she came to Penwith to study Beauty and loved it. Being taught at College is so much more of an adult environment. I really respect my tutors. They are very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. I am looking forward to coming back next year to continue my Level 3.

Georgia Wade from PorthlevenBeauty Therapy Level 2 Diploma

Previously from Helston Community College

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Level 2 Progression Media & Games

The Progression 2 Media and Games pathway allows you to study the UAL Level 2 Diploma in Creative Digital Media Production andTechnology. This pathway will provide training for those intending to work in the media and games industries, and will provide the opportunity to develop a range of competences and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life in these fields.

On completing this Diploma, you will obtain a qualification which will enable progression to further study, training, or employment and which will enable you to make informed choices with regard to a career in the media and games sector. You will also have developed creative and practical skills that may be applicable in other work situations or will enable you to progress to Level 3 qualifications in areas such as games development, creative media production, art and design, performing arts or music and music technology.

You will study the following units:

• Introduction to creative media methods and skills• Introduction to production techniques in creative media• Understanding an audience in creative media production• Contextual research for creative media production• Exploring audio production and technology• Exploring visual production and technology• Exploring interactive media production and technology• Personal project and presentation in creative media production

UAL Diplomas are vocationally-related qualifications, where learners develop knowledge and understanding by applying theirlearning and skills in a work-related context. They are effective because they engage learners to take responsibility for their own learning and to develop skills that are essential for the workplace.

These skills include: team working; working from a prescribed brief; working to deadlines; presenting information effectively; and accurately completing administrative tasks and processes. All Progression 2 pathways will include English and Maths up toLevel 2. Students will study either GCSE or Functional Skills to ensure that they achieve at Level 2 before progressing onto Level 3 courses.

AIM Level 3 Extended Diploma Games, Animation & VFX Skills

NextGen Skills Academy, a pioneering organisation backed by both government and industry funding, has launched its firstcourse, the Level 3 Diploma in Games, Animation and VFX Skills with its partner awarding organisation AIM Awards.

The diploma will provide you with a Level 3 qualification, which is equivalent to three A Levels. As well as the delivery of relevant and up-to-date course content that has been written by the industry to replicate today’s real-world work environment, you will have unprecedented access to industry mentors and industry-designed live briefs, set and assessed by a group of leading companies from the sectors being studied. Over two years, you will build a portfolio relevant to industry needs and as preparation for either working in these sectors or as a progression to Higher Education or higher Apprenticeships.

The essential feature of this qualification is that the content is being driven by industry. The design of the qualification hasbeen in response to direct input from an industry representative group of employers from across the games, animation and VFXindustries. The qualification structure has been designed on the principle of a two-year, full-time Diploma (1080 hours) that covers all of these elements: the fundamentals, industry working practice and technical learning about each and all of the games, animation and VFX industries. By studying all three areas, you will be able to make the connections between them and acquire transferable skills so that, towards the end of the Diploma, you will be equipped to make a more considered career decision.

Due to the content, the style of delivery and the assessment methodology that underpins this qualification, there are a numberof possible progression routes available to you. The inclusion of research, presentation, essay writing and exams as assessment tools will ensure that, if you progress to a degree-level course, you will be well served with the acquisition of study skills that will support you to be able to cope with the independent learning that will be required of you at any Higher Education institute.

A clear understanding of how the games, animation and VFX industries work in practice, and experience of working to aspecific industry brief in a way that replicates industry methods of project management, will ensure that any student choosing toprogress their learning and career path through a Higher Level Apprenticeship or a Degree Apprenticeship will be able to startwork immediately. Abilities in the basic concepts of art, maths and programming will be of great support to students, Apprentices and new employees whatever their progression route.

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UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma Games Design

If you enjoy playing and exploring the imagined worlds which exist in digital games, then this is the course for you. You will learn the tools and techniques required to design complex game worlds and environments which push the boundaries of creativity as we move into an age when digital games are now recognised as an art form.The course has been specifically developed by The University of the Arts, London as a response to older, less creative diplomas and you will be at the head of a new generation of creative practitioners.

You will start by learning the fundamentals of working in the games and creative digital industries. You will learn vital research and development skills and gain the ability to work on rough and prototype work either individually or as part of a team. You will assess and share feedback on your learning, critique your own and others work and then you will respond to this with new materials. There is a consistent focus on digital artists and game designers to be reflective in their practice and knowing when to pass a product on to the next part of the pipeline is an invaluable skill.

Your practical journey will begin learning how to work in digital 3D using industry-standard software and hardware. You will learn the pipeline used in the industry to meet the expectations of creative briefs and will build skills to meet and exceed these goals. You will work in bespoke Games Labs with immersive surround sound and 60” LCD televisions with staff who are accredited to teach the Autodesk software you will be using.

As the course progresses you will move into a development environment which utilises the Unreal 4 games engine. In this forum you will learn how to compile all of your 3D assets into a fully functioning 3D world. To begin with ,you will learn how to code basic functionality in your world using Unreal’s visual scripting language or, if you have the ability, there is the option to work more rigorously in C++, which is the industry standard language for games programming. The limits on what can be produced are only defined by your ability and effort, and Penwith College Games have a rich history in publishing games and winning national awards for our work. You are in good hands!

UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma Lens Based Media

This exciting new course will offer you a greater opportunity to explore challenges in visual, audio and interactive media, andapply your creative and practical skills to a range of medium-specific assignments. We are part of a unique partnership withUniversity of the Arts London that will give you direct experience of Higher Education schemes and projects. This course is fun,challenging, hard work and will help you to decide what pathway you would like to pursue after completing the course.

This is a wide scope media course that allows you to develop skills in either specialist subjects or a wide range of differentfields of the creative media production. The options include video production, radio and sound or journalism and print, although you may combine the pathways in the theme-based course structure.

You may try your hand at advertising, fiction production and music video projects as well as photography and animation.

During the two years of the course, you will undertake practical, hands-on projects to develop your core creative skills and software expertise. You will learn to use industry-standard equipment and software during workshop sessions and guided studio time working on both PCs and iMacs. The software we use includes: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Audition, Adobe InDesign and Adobe Flash.

You will learn about how the creative industries work and be encouraged to work on live projects for clients to gain commercialexperience.

Previous students have gone on to work as camera operators, animators, photographers, game designers, concept artists,3D modellers, creative writers and graphic design artists after completing study at a higher level.

See our state-of-the-art

facilities for yourself at one of our open events.

Check out page 129 for dates.

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Music & Performing ArtsYou will be joining a vibrant and dynamic department with opportunities to showcase your talents in one of the many performance spaces within the College, or beyond.As part of the artistic community which Cornwall is celebrated for, all the world really is your stage. Supported by experienced lecturers and technicians, your course will give you a solid foundation from which to springboard your talents. Bands, theatre groups and West End performers have all emerged from this exciting department and we keenly await the chance to see your talents.

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A Level Drama & Theatre Studies

If you enjoy learning about all aspects of drama and theatre then this course will really suit you. It is a practical course that explores the theoretical work of playwrights, directors and theatre companies that make theatre so exciting and diverse.

It will provide you with the necessary skills to analyse and appreciate any play text or performance recognising how historical and cultural contexts inform all areas of theatre making whilst developing your performance skills. We have an excellent learning environment; our classes take place in a drama rehearsal room or a theatre space. This dedicated space encourages you to develop your understanding of professional working theatre.

We approach the study of Drama and Theatre from three key viewpoints:

Actor - As an actor you will develop your acting skills - interpretation of character, exploration of style, voice, physicality and stage relationships with others.

Director - As a director you will develop your interpretative skills when working with plays. You will

instigate ideas for performance and develop a directorial vision when working on original material or text.

Designer - As a designer you will develop your design skills and consider how design impacts upon an audience. You will develop ideas for set creation, costume, lighting and sound design.

This course is designed to provide a balance between performance, research, analysis and design. It is a collaborative course and will help you to develop important communication skills, confidence, imagination, creativity and promote personal and social development. Group work is at the heart of the course and you will enjoy working closely with others, responding to and giving supportive feedback.

A Level Music

This course will give an all-round understanding of and ability in the whole world of music, across a range of styles and techniques, looking at practitioners in as many genres as we can fit into the schedule. Music A Level is the backbone of music for anyone who wants to become a serious musician.

In this course you will learn the central aspects of music: performance; composition; analysis. Central aspects means you will play to a high level (you must be a grade five player to start the course). In composition you will grow to understand the mechanics of music, how it works in terms of harmony, structure and arranging, and you will be able to recognise and talk about different styles of music. Anyone taking this course must read music as discussions about styles and compositional techniques will all be based on notation.

A brilliant aspect of the course is that you get to work with an accompanist each week in order that your recital is as polished as possible. As a result, in this section of the course most students get an A grade.

As a good musician you will need to be able to hear what is happening in music and we will spend a lot of time developing your ability to listen. By the end of the course you will be able to work out what notes and chords are being played. This of course means your composing will improve as you will be able to write down what you can hear in your head. Listening to a range of composers will give an idea of what you can write, so the whole course is linked.

Taught by experienced musicians, the course is exactly right if you want to progress in music performing, film music composing, song writing or music education.

Teachers are highly skilled and apply their expertise to great effect.

Ofsted 2016

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Rockschool Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Music Practitioner

Want to learn how to be the ultimate performer? This course can be taken as part of an A Level programme and will allow you to have access to the innovative and excellent teaching and resources in Penwith College’s Music department, but it will also allow you to keep your options open and complete three other A Levels alongside it.

This course is industry related, helping you to gain practical skills which will be essential for pursuing a career in the music sector. The course is a one or two-year programme that develops your skills in both the technology and performance aspects of the music industry. You may use the qualification to study a degree course in music or use the skills that you have learnt to forge your own career in the industry.

You will rehearse in our specialised practice studios, which are fully equipped with PA and backline equipment, use our iMac suite for sequencing/media-based work and will work in our theatre/ performance space, learning how to use live sound and lighting equipment.

You will be taught by lecturers who still work within the professional music arena from performance artists to music technology experts.

You will receive one half hour instrumental or vocal lesson per week with your own personal music tutor who will help youto develop your playing skills and take you through graded examinations if needed, as these can count towards UCAS points.As well as attending lectures and rehearsals, as an aspiring musician you will be expected to spend a minimum of one hour per evening practising your chosen instrument. Competition for careers within the music industry is highly competitive and you will need to show enthusiasm, drive, determination and professionalism.

You will have many opportunities to perform at external events throughout the academic year in order to gain confidence and develop your skills as a performer in front of real audiences. Students performed this year at the St Ives Theatre, The LuggerPenzance, Sound Nightclub, Mazey Day, Notes on the Green and Lafrowda.

Outside lecturers and music professionals will visit from time to time in order to help develop your skills and advise you on how to pursue a career within the music industry.

Rockschool Level 2 Progression Music

This course is aimed at helping you to gain practical skills essential to a career in the music industry. This one year course gives a good grounding for progression on to the Rockschool Level 3 Extended Diploma course.

You will rehearse in our specialised practice studios which are fully equipped with PA and backline equipment, will use our iMac suite for sequencing/media-based work and will work in our theatre/ performance-space learning how to use live sound and lighting equipment.

You will be taught by lecturers who still work within the professional music arena from performance artists to music technology experts.

You will receive one half hour instrumental or vocal lesson per week with your own personal music tutor who will help you to develop your playing skills and take you through graded examinations if needed, as these can count towards UCAS points.As well as attending lectures and rehearsals, as an aspiring musician you will be expected to spend a minimum of one hour per evening practising your chosen instrument. Competition for careers within the music industry is highly competitive and you will need to show enthusiasm, drive, determination and professionalism.

You will have many opportunities to perform at external events throughout the academic year in order to gain confidence and develop your skills as a performer in front of real audiences.Students performed this year at the St Ives Theatre, The Lugger Penzance, Sound Nightclub, Mazey Day, Notes on the Green and Lafrowda.

Outside lecturers and music professionals will visit from time to time in order to help develop your skills and advise you on how to pursue a career within the music industry.

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Rockschool Level 3 Extended Diploma Music Practitioner

This course is industry related, helping you to gain practical skills which will be essential for pursuing a career in the music sector. The course is a two-year programme that develops your skills in both the technology and performance aspects of the music industry. You may use the qualification to study a degree course in music or use the skills that you have learnt to forge your own career in the industry.

You will rehearse in our specialised practice studios which are fully equipped with PA and backline equipment, use our iMac suite for sequencing/media based-work and will work in our theatre/ performance space, learning how to use live sound and lighting equipment.

You will be taught by lecturers who still work within the professional music arena from performance artists to musictechnology experts. You will receive one half hour instrumental or vocal lesson per week with your own personal music tutor who will help you to develop you playing skills and take you through graded examinations if needed, as these can count towards UCAS points.

As well as attending lectures and rehearsals, as an aspiring musician you will be expected to spend a minimum of one hourper evening practising your chosen instrument. Competition for careers within the music industry is highly competitive andyou will need to show enthusiasm, drive, determination and professionalism.

You will have many opportunities to perform at external events throughout the academic year in order to gain confidence anddevelop your skills as a performer in front of real audiences. Students performed this year at the St Ives Theatre, The LuggerPenzance, Sound Nightclub, Mazey Day, Notes on the Green and Lafrowda.

Outside lecturers and music professionals will visit from time to time in order to help develop your skills and advise you on how to pursue a career within the music industry.

View more course information on our website.

I had heard really good things about the catering courses at Penwith and know several people who have done them and gone on to get jobs in top restaurants.

Amy Barnes from PenzanceProfessional Cookery Level 3 Diploma

Previously from Mounts Bay Academy

Music & Perform

ing Arts

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ScienceYou will have many opportunities to enrich your learning experience with fellow Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) students.The College is a member of the Royal Society Associate Schools and College scheme, and you will benefit from these close links with the UK’s most prestigious scientific institution.

With a guest lecture programme that has included speakers from the Institute of Physics and behind the scenes tours at the Kennedy Space Centre, Florida, the study of science at the College has never been more exciting.

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A Level Biology

The world is currently undergoing a biological revolution! With modern advances in molecular biology, scientists have been able to make significant advances in genetics, medicine, agriculture and biotechnology. As a result, topics like genetic engineering are rarely out of the news. Studying Biology will give you a greater understanding of traditional areas of biology and these topical issues.

Biology A Level goes into much more detail than you will have covered at GCSE. You will study biological molecules, cells, nutrition, gas exchange and transport systems in the first year. The second year builds on work completed in the first year and includes the biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis, nervous systems, homeostasis, genetics, variation, populations, evolution and ecosystems.

Biology, like all sciences, is a practical subject. Throughout the course you will carry out many practical activities including laboratory-based investigations and ecological field studies. You will be awarded a Practical Endorsement along with your A Level Biology. Biology will give you the skills to make connections and associations with all living things around you. You will become confident in a

variety of mathematical and problem solving skills and you will develop an understanding of how society makes

decisions about biological issues.

Being such a broad subject, you are bound to find a specific area of interest, plus it opens the door to a fantastic range of interesting careers including veterinary science, genetics, forensic science and many in healthcare.

A Level Chemistry

If you enjoy the study of the substances that make both us and the things that surround us then Chemistry is a subject you should consider studying. Chemistry is everywhere; from the food we eat and the water we drink, from the clothes we wear and our mobile phones to the medicines that keep us healthy.

Chemistry is truly the “central science”. New breakthroughs in fields such as genetics, biochemistry, medicine, materials science, forensics, nanotechnology, drug discovery, the environment and next-generation computer hardware are all driven by chemistry.

Studying A Level Chemistry will give you an exciting insight into the contemporary world of chemistry. Emphasis throughout the course is on developing your knowledge, competence and confidence in practical skills and problem solving, together with enhancing your understanding of key chemical ideas and how they link to each other. All this makes A Level Chemistry a challenging and interesting subject.

Chemistry is a fascinating and fundamental subject. You will study 13 topic areas; each will allow you to explore a topic containing different key concepts. Once the features of a chemical topic have been developed, you will consider the applications and relevance to everyday life. Examples of topics you will study in the first year include the study of fundamental areas such as organic chemistry, energy, quantitative chemistry and chemical bonding alongside contemporary issues such as atmospheric chemistry. In the second year these topics are studied in more depth and new areas introduced such as 13C NMR spectroscopy. A variety of teaching methods are used with an emphasis on practical experimentation.

Check out our Medics’ Academy on page 112.

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I really want to join the Royal Navy. Not only has this course been really helpful in preparing me for this through the work we do in College and the experiences of exercise on the moor, I have met the best friends you could imagine. We all work together really closely. My advice to any student thinking of this course is make sure you jump in, volunteer for everything and don’t hold back. You will get so much more out of it.

Alex Slater-Brown from St. BuryanPublic Services Level 3 Extended Diploma

Previously from Cape Cornwall School

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A Level Physics

Physics is the study of matter, energy and their interactions. It is the science that underpins all other sciences by describing the ways that particles are held together by the forces of nature in order to build the atoms and molecules that make up everything you are, everything you touch and everything in the universe. If you wish to be challenged with new concepts and learn how the universe works then Physics is the right subject for you.

As a subject, it develops a wide range of valuable skills: numerate problem solving; data analysis; experimental skills; the ability to describe and explain physical phenomena; and application of physics knowledge to new situations. It will enable you to understand new discoveries in particle physics, material science, astrophysics and cosmology.

You will start the course by building on your knowledge of physics from GCSE Science, whilst developing the essential skills needed to work as a physicist. You will study a variety of topics such as mechanics, particle physics and astrophysics. How this theory links to experimental work will be developed in core practical sessions where you will gain the skills in designing and executing experiments.

Physics A Level is a well-respected subject that can open many different career paths. These not only include physics and engineering in Higher Education, but also variety of university courses including mathematics, computer science, chemistry, geology, medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and environmental science. The skills gained in Physics can be used in many areas, such as the armed forces, finance, law and journalism.

A Level Environmental Studies

Do you want to gain an insight into the scientific processes that control and affect the environment? If so, through studying Environmental Studies you will gain an understanding of how different events and cycles within the environment interrelate, the human impacts on these events and cycles, and the strategies that can be used to minimise the problems caused.

In your first year you will be given an introduction to the biodiversity of life on planet Earth. You will investigate the reasons why the conservation of life on Earth is important and the methods which may be used to achieve effective conservation. You will also study the ecological relationships between organisms, and

their relationship with the abiotic environment. You will develop a number of fieldwork techniques which are studied both within the laboratory and in the field. You will explore why physical resources such as atmospheric gases, water and mineral nutrients are essential for life on Earth and how humans exploit and manage these resources to provide higher material living standards.

In your second year of study you will investigate the problems

of future energy supply and how these may be resolved; this is investigated through the study of the energy

resources which are available for use. You will also develop an understanding of a range of atmospheric, aquatic and terrestrial pollutants, and the strategies which may be used to minimise releases, treat effluents and manage the damage caused. You will also look at the factors controlling human population growth, which you will consider in relation to the demands placed upon the planet’s resources and life-support systems. You will analyse food and forestry production systems, with particular emphasis on the limiting factors affecting productivity, the environmental problems caused by these systems and the ways in which problems can be addressed. You will finish the second year by considering the sustainability of human lifestyles, by reviewing the evidence from all of the other modules of the specification.

Learners enjoy great success because of the ethos of aspiration and achievement that pervades the college.

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Sport, Leisure & Public ServicesYou will have the opportunity to participate, compete and excel in a wide range of physical activities at Penwith College. You will also be able become a member of our Academy programmes irrespective of your academic course or standard of performance. Our sports teams play within the AoC Sport organisation, which run leagues and cups across the country, as well as sport specific competitions and tournaments. Teams from the College have competed in the AoC Sport National finals and travelled across the South West as well as to London, Birmingham, Dallas and Japan where we have had success at both regional and national levels within competitive sport.

Provision has been made for a wide spectrum of abilities with recreational sessions and non-competitive activities. There are indoor hockey leagues, mixed netball games, six-a-side football and alternative activities like gig rowing and mountain biking. You will have the opportunity for personal development by taking part in the Sports Leaders Awards schemes, for which the College has been awarded Sports Leader UK Academy status and through which more than 800 students have already trained. Students are involved in volunteering in local primary, secondary and special schools as well as at community events such as the Cornwall School Games.

Within our Public Services programme you will benefit from visits by members of the uniformed and armed services who, alongside the many former service personnel that make up our teaching team, will put you through your paces, pushing you physically and mentally. We look forward to seeing you in the career of your choice as you join the successes of our past students.

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A Level Physical Education

The Physical Education course is designed for those students who have an interest in the main theoretical components of physical education and also for those who display a high sporting level in at least one sport as a performer or coach.

You will look at anatomical, physiological and psychological theories, and apply them to current sporting activity and performance. Everyone on the course will undertake personal study, where you will analyse sporting performance and develop ways to improve either your own personal skill level or that of others if looking at the coaching element. You will also be assessed in personal skill levels and in competitive practical situations.

The first year will give you an introduction to physical education including anatomy and physiology, acquiring movement skills, and socio-cultural studies relating to participation in physical activity. The aim is to ensure that all the basic concepts are covered and then for you to be able to apply these to practical situations to enhance performance and skill levels. The practical element of the course is covered through the acquiring, developing

and evaluating practical skills in physical education module. This includes a practical assessment in two activities

as a performer, official or coach. You will also be examined on knowledge of general practical activity preparation.

The second year of the course further develops the principles learnt in Year 1 and covers the topics of socio cultural studies, sports psychology and sport physiology. These topics are applied to current elite performance and involves many of the key principles being linked to development in world or Olympic performances. The practical component in the second year of study includes your assessment in one practical activity as either a performer, official or coach, and must be linked to the full competitive sporting environment. You will also complete a written coursework component based on a self-analysis of six key skills in your chosen activity area.

Level 2 Progression Sport

The Progression 2 Sport pathway allows you to study the BTEC Certificate in Sport, and is broadly equivalent to two GCSEs. BTEC Firsts are vocationally-related qualifications, where you will develop knowledge and understanding by applying learning and skills in a work-related context.

The course will engage you to take responsibility for your own learning and to develop skills that are essential for the workplace. The course will involve two online externally assessed units, Fitness Testing and Training, and Anatomy and Physiology. In addition to this you will complete six internally assessed units including Planning and Leading Sports Activities and Injury and the Sports Performer. Each assignment will be based around a scenario which reflects tasks and projects that sports employees would be undertaking in the workplace. For example, a health and fitness instructor conducting client health and fitness assessments.

You will learn in a range of methods including practical experiences and theory-based lessons. You will be taught in classroom lectures, practical sport and group discussions using the extensive facilities at the College, including a purpose-built sports hall, fitness suite, 3G astro. Alongside the Progression 2 Sport pathway you will study Maths and/or English for four hours each a week. Progression onto a Level 3 course will only be secured once you have completed the BTEC Certificate in Sport and achieved a C grade in either GCSE Maths or English.

Participate, compete and excel. Join one of our many Sports Academies. See page 108 for all your options.

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Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport Development & Coaching

This National Extended Diploma in Sport, Development and Coaching course includes elements of both theory and practical sport, and will allow you to investigate the diversity within sport, health and the leisure industry.

The course will teach you to apply your sporting knowledge, as well as test your practical ability, by covering a range of units including Sports Coaching & Leadership, Fitness Testing and Programming, Sports Development and Practical Sports Performance. During the course you will take on the role of being employed within the sport and active leisure industry when completing assignments and activities. Each assignment will be based around a scenario which reflects tasks/projects that sports employees would be undertaking in the workplace. For example, a health and fitness instructor conducting client health and fitness assessment.

Classes are taught through classroom lectures, group discussions as well as a variety of practical sessions using the extensive facilities at the College, including a purpose-built sports hall, fitness suite and 3G astro. There is also an opportunity to take part in industry recognised additional qualifications, which will enhance your experience, skills and employability.

The course will particularly suit you if you enjoy learning in a practical environment, but it will also stretch you academically. It is an ideal route if you want to pursue a career in health and fitness, sports coaching or teaching. It is broadly equivalent to three GCE A Levels.

Level 3 Extended Diploma Sport & Exercise Science

The Sport and Exercise Science course is a scientific-based programme that prepares you for work in sport, or progression on to Higher Education to study a sport science related degree such as Physical Education, Sports Therapy, Sports Psychology and Exercise Physiology.

The course is an academic programme that combines theory and some practical sessions to cover the sport and exercise sciences’ core elements of anatomy, physiology, psychology and fitness testing. The course will include units such as Sports Injuries and Massage, Research Methods and Nutrition for Sports Performance. During the course you will take on the role of being employed within the sport and active leisure industry when completing assignments and activities. Each assignment will be based around a scenario which

reflects tasks/projects that sports employees would be undertaking in the workplace. For example, a health and fitness

instructor conducting client health and fitness assessments.

Classes are taught through classroom lectures, group discussions as well as a variety of practical sessions using the extensive facilities at the College, including a purpose-built sports hall, fitness suite, 3G astro and massage suites. There is also an opportunity for you to take part in industry-recognised additional qualifications which will enhance your experience, skills and employability. The course will particularly suit you if you enjoy learning in a practical environment, but it will also stretch you academically. It is broadly equivalent to three A Levels.

Teaching is often inspirational. Teachers have very high expectations and ensure that learners are constantly challenged and engaged in their learning.

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When I moved to the area I was very impressed with the modern College, excellent facilities and it had great reviews. I’ve learned many new skills and met some great people.

Alex Miles from PenzancePublic Services Level 3 Extended Diploma

Level 3 Extended Diploma Uniformed Public Services

This Extended Diploma in Uniformed Public Services includes elements of both theory and practical work. This course prepares you for the entry tests carried out by the emergency services and armed forces. It will also improve your fitness levels, teach you leadership and team-building skills, and help you to develop an understanding of the public services that form the cornerstone of our society.

Inter-personal skills are at test throughout, and you are actively encouraged to aim towards being confident in looking after yourself; it could be ironing a shirt or leading a team of personnel on Bodmin Moor with map and compass. The skills taught in the course can easily be transferred to management or similar vocations where leadership and decision making are important. You will study a range of units including Understanding Discipline, Leadership and Teamwork and Nautical studies.

During the course you will take on the role of being employed within the uniformed services when completing assignments and activities. Each assignment will be based around a scenario which reflects tasks and projects that employees would be undertaking in the uniformed public services’ working environment. There is also an opportunity to take part in industry-recognised additional qualifications, which will enhance your experience, skills and employability. The final qualification is broadly equivalent to three A Levels and is well regarded by the uniformed services and Higher Education institutions for progression.

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Activity Leadership

This comprehensive programme is for individuals new to, or without formal training working in the UK outdoors sector who are looking to become coaches and activity leaders.

DurationThis is a 12-month programme which includes 22 sessions (one day a week) at College plus regular workplace visits.

Programme ContentThis Apprenticeship includes the following qualifications:

• YMCA Award Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Activity Leadership• BTEC Level 2 Award in Skills and Activities for Sport and Active

Leisure (Outdoor Education or Sports Coaching pathways) • Level 2 Functional Skill in Mathematics• Level 2 Functional Skill in English• Employer rights and responsibilities

The programme includes:

• Expedition experience• Leading outdoor and adventurous activities • Outdoor and adventurous activities

To gain the Level 2 Activity Leadership Apprenticeship learners will be expected to attend: a one day college induction, taught sessions at College to complete the mandatory units, and functional skills (if applicable). Further assessment is through a combination of externally-set written tests and internally assessed assignments; these require self-study and tutor visits at employer locations.

Level 2 Apprenticeship Active Leisure Operations

This comprehensive programme is for people who are new to, or without formal training employed in the leisure industry.

DurationThis is a 12 month programme with 20 sessions at college (one day a week) plus regular workplace visits.

Programme ContentThis Apprenticeship includes the following elements:

• YMCA Award Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Active Leisure, Learning and Well-being Operational Services

• YMCA Award Level 2 Certificate in Leisure Operations• Level 2 Functional Skill in Mathematics• Level 2 Functional Skill in English

The programme includes:

• Understanding the active leisure and learning sector • Understanding employments rights and responsibilities • Customer care and diversity in active leisure• Health, safety, security and welfare in active leisure • Developing self in an active leisure job role • Teamwork in active leisure

This Apprenticeship includes the following qualifications:

• YMCA Awards Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Active Leisure• Learning and Well-being Operational Services (QCF)• YMCA Awards Level 2 Certificate in Leisure Operations (QCF)• Level 2 Functional Skill in Mathematics• Level 2 Functional Skill in English• YMCA Awards Level 2 Award in Employment Awareness in

Active Leisure and Learning

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Level 2 Apprenticeship Gym Instructor

The Intermediate Gym Instructor Apprenticeship is designed for individuals employed in the fitness industry and for those who want to enter the industry, looking to progress their careers with a national recognised qualification. It will provide you with the skills and knowledge to structure and instruct safe, effective and motivating resistance training exercises and programmes.

DurationThis is a 12 month programme with 13 days at College and regular workplace visits.

Programme ContentThis Apprenticeship includes the following elements:

• YMCA Award Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Instructing Exercise and Fitness - Gym Based Exercise (QCF)

• YMCA Award Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing - Gym Based Exercise (QCF)

• Level 2 Functional Skill in Mathematics• Level 2 Functional Skill in English• YMCA Awards Level 2 Award in Employment Awareness in

Active Leisure and Learning

And includes:

• Unit 1 - Anatomy and physiology for exercise• Unit 2 - Health, safety and welfare in a fitness environment• Unit 3 - Principles of exercise, fitness and health• Unit 4 - Know how to support clients who take part in exercise

and physical activity• Unit 5 - Planning gym-based exercise• Unit 6 - Instructing gym-based exercise

Level 3 Apprenticeship Personal Trainer

The Advanced Personal Trainer Apprenticeship is for individuals who already have a Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing and wish to continue their professional development into personal training in a health club, sports/leisure centre environment or longer term work on a self-employed basis. It will provide you with the skills and knowledge to structure and instruct safe, effective, motivating, one-to-one, baseline assessment, nutritional advice and progressive programming specific to the individual needs of a client.

DurationThis is a 12 month programme with 30 days at College plus regular workplace visits.

Programme ContentThis Apprenticeship includes the following elements:

• YMCA Award Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Personal Training (QCF)• YMCA Award Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training (QCF)• Level 2 Functional Skill in Mathematics• Level 2 Functional Skill in English• Employer rights and responsibilities • YMCA Awards Level 2 Award in Employment Awareness in

Active Leisure and Learning

The certificate includes:

• Anatomy and physiology for exercise• Health, safety and welfare in a fitness environment• Principles of exercise, fitness and health• Know how to support clients who take part in exercise and

physical activity• Applying the principles of nutrition as part of a personal training

programme• Programming personal training with clients• Delivering personal training

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AcademiesAs a full-time student you could join one of our Academies. These have been set up to encourage development and excellence. Whether your interest is sporting, academic or artistic, we have created programmes and support to help you excel. As part of any Academy you can expect to enjoy success during your time at Truro College, but the skills you acquire will stay with you as you progress to university, career and into life as an enriched individual. Academy activities are included into your timetable, enabling you to access as much as possible without interfering with your studies.

Please note that Academies can only be joined in conjunction with a full-time programme of study.

In addition to the Academies on the following pages, Truro and Penwith College also offers other Academies at the Truro College campus. Transport may be provided for those wishing to take part. Please see the Sports Academies leaflet or the Truro College Prospectus for further information.

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Academic Academy

Do you enjoy being introduced to new ideas, or want to learn about topics beyond the curriculum? If so, the Academic Academy is for you!

The Academic Academy is a 30-week programme of lectures and seminars designed to stretch, challenge and provide support for students who want to apply for selective universities. It is taken alongside your full-time programme and only requires a commitment of two hours a week. The programme is fun and exciting and aims to increase your intellectual curiosity and confidence in ways that will support applications to the most competitive universities. We will introduce you to new ideas and new ways of looking at the world: every Wednesday afternoon you will have a lecture followed by a choice of seminar.

“I have really enjoyed going to the Academy. I thought that all the lectures were interesting and informative and I particularly enjoyed the chance to continue learning about subject areas that I had rejected when choosing my A Levels.”

Presentations are given by our own staff and external guests, with previous speakers including a Lord, an Oxford professor and Director of Experiments at CERN. Lectures are cross curricular and cover a range of topics including science, literature, maths, culture, gender, philosophy, religion, history, art, psychology and politics. After the lecture you can choose from a number of seminar groups.

These include a follow up discussion on the presentation, a debating group which enters the Oxford and Cambridge Union debating competitions or stretch and challenge activities in science and mathematics.

“I really enjoy the Academic Academy, especially meeting new people in a less formal environment in the seminars.”

The Academy is aimed at students who will meet the post 16 national gifted and talented criterion of achieving 58 points in their best eight GCSEs (six A grades and two A* grades or better at GCSE). However, we are aware that sometimes GCSE grades do not reflect your true ability, so this is not a rigid entry requirement. It is more important that you are excited by new ideas and by the opportunity to be stretched intellectually.

Badminton Academy

All players are welcome from enthusiastic beginners to county and club players.

Players will have up to four hours per week of badminton-related activities, including individual racket skills, drills and preparation for match play. All Academy players will receive additional support and advice on strength and conditioning and gain access to the College’s extensive fitness facilities.

The College plays in the Association of Colleges Sport tournaments and cups, with the opportunity to qualify for the national finals, as well as a range of county and regional schools tournaments. In recent years the badminton team has been very successful on a national stage; they were winners of the AoC National Cup in 2014 and 2016, and had representatives in the South West team at the AoC National Championships.

Team honours• 2010 British Colleges Cup Champions• 2011 British Colleges Cup Finals• 2012 British Colleges Cup Finals• 2013 British Colleges Cup Finals - 3rd Place• 2014 AoC National Cup Winners• 2016 AoC National Winners

Players’ honours• County honours for 10 Academy players in 2013

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Basketball Academy

At Truro, players have the opportunity to train on the basketball court for up to seven hours a week, to play in competitive fixtures, train in the fitness suite, receive match and personal performance analysis, and be given nutritional and psychological guidance.

There are several male teams to accommodate the number and standard of players, and a female team if there is demand. Students compete in the Association of Colleges (AOC) Sport competitions, including the Southwest League, Southwest Cup, and National Championship qualifying tournament. We also compete in the Dynamic National Schools Competition and U19 County League.

Players are also offered a chance to learn how to coach, referee and table officiate, and are encouraged to complete the associated England Basketball qualifications run at the College. This enables Academy players to volunteer in local primary and secondary schools, and officiate and coach at the primary school basketball festivals and the County Schools finals held at Truro College and other establishments.

The College hosts, officiates and plays in the local (county) men’s league, which is the junior section of Cornwall Cougars (national league). Truro College has developed a community club providing coaching and games opportunities for both primary and secondary school children. Cornwall Cougars Wheelchair Basketball club is based at Truro College, which offers opportunities for players to get involved in all aspects of the games.

In addition to the Academy at Truro, we’re now running a new Academy at our Penwith campus. The team currently plays within the college league structure in Cornwall and is looking to increase its range of competitive games and involvement within the South West.

Players’ honours• Nineteen Academy players have played in the men’s National

League.

Team honours• 2008 - British Colleges Cup finals• 2010 - South West Champions (Girls)• 2010 - U18 National League play-offs• 2011/2012 - Men’s County League Winners (evenings)• 2014 - U18 County Cup Winners• 2016 - South West Women’s representative at AoC National

Championships

AlumniEx-students have gone on to play in the men’s National League and University Basketball at Worcester, UWIC, University of St Mark & St John, Oxford Brookes, Gloucester, Leeds, London and Brunel University.

Computing Academy

Run in partnership with local businesses, the Computing Academy will enhance your technical skills and employability, preparing you for a career in the fast changing field of computing.

The Academy consists of three topics of study:

Topic 1: Ethical HackingThis academy will introduce students to the exciting world of computer security and forensics. Students shadow a real-life target, gathering intelligence and collating evidence that could be used to gain electronic access. Students then map the real target’s network remotely, identifying the types and names of those network devices and undertake cyber-attacks.

Topic 2: 3D Virtual Reality & 3D Games DesignThis topic will give you an introduction to the skills required to develop 3D Video Games. The course will start off with a grounding in the Unreal Engine 4 game engine, where you will use blueprints to create a 3D virtual reality walkthrough which will be exported to the Oculus Rift VR headset. We will then investigate how to add gamification elements in order to create a 3D, first-person gaming experience. The final part of the course will introduce game programming using C++ to control the gaming elements in greater depth as well as the mathematics and physics that are vital to creating a fully functioning video game experience.

Topic 3: Software DevelopmentThis topic will provide you with the necessary skills to undertake a project where students will send a Raspberry Pi computer to an altitude of over 80,000 feet attached to a helium balloon. The Raspberry Pi will take pictures, log sensor data and transmit its coordinates live to the students before descending back to earth on a parachute for recovery.

Local employer involvementLocal employers will present information to the Academy group regarding their business practices, latest developments within the computing industry and employment opportunities. A number of work experience places will also be available.

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Elite Academy

Elite Academy including High Performance & Military Fitness Elite Academy including High Performance & Military Fitness Groups provides the opportunity for sportsmen and women from a range of sports including athletics, cross country, table tennis, rowing, martial arts and triathlon to receive specialist strength and conditioning advice to supplement the specific training and coaching they receive outside the College.

There are two sub-groups within the Elite Academy to allow students to select the most appropriate training group for their needs.

Athletes are required to be of at least county or regional standard (where available) to apply for the Elite Academy. Training programmes will be produced, where necessary, in conjunction with relevant coaches, and athletes will be encouraged to train with each other depending on their fitness requirements.

There will be up to eight hours a week where sessions can be accessed to suit individual needs.

Specific athletic and cross country training will also be held off site with Michelle Penhaligon, our UK Athletics Coach and Leader in Running Fitness. Michelle also works closely with our disabled students improving their fitness levels and preparing them for competition.

Elite athletes will get the opportunity to compete in Association of Colleges Sport events including cross country, track and field championships, watersports championships as well as other county and regional competitions.

High Performance GroupStudents will be selected to join this group from an application process due to the restricted positions available. It requires a significant, professional commitment to training.

Military Fitness GroupThis will involve an all-year-round programme. Come rain or shine, our ex-military fitness instructors are dedicated to helping students become fitter and healthier.

Football Development Programme

Truro and Penwith College is proud to announce a new initiative for 2016 with the introduction of a partnership with Chelsea FC Foundation. This exciting venture will give participants the opportunity to gain an outstanding education whilst being part of one of the most comprehensive football development programmes in the country. The football training programme will closely mirror that of full-time professional players and will be based on Chelsea’s philosophy of using the power of football to develop the next generation of sporting professionals.

The coaching methodology will be based on the FA’s Four Corner Model and will include a strength and conditioning programme, support with nutrition and hydration, and advice on sports injuries through our physiotherapy clinic. This comprehensive educational initiative is designed to inspire students to achieve their academic and personal development goals through the power of sport.

Players who are not selected to be part of the above programme will have the opportunity to compete for places in any of the teams who play weekly. There will also be the opportunity to play recreational football through the college Health, Wellbeing and Sport programme. Players will have up to six hours a week of football-related activities, which will include theory sessions, coaching, fitness sessions, skills work and post-match analysis, in addition to competitive matches.

The College enters teams in all major ESFA and Association ofColleges Sport leagues, cups and tournaments, as well as theCornwall Schools Leagues and Cups, and friendlies. There are normally more than 15 games per season depending on the level of team and success in the cups. Footballers aiming for the top of the game will work with top UEFA - A and B licensed coaches and use some of the best facilities in the region. Players will also be given the chance to develop leadership, coaching and officiating skills through additional qualifications and experience in local schools.

There may be the opportunity to participate in a variety of tripsand tours with a focus on playing and developing skills. Past tourshave included the Sanix World Championship Tournament inJapan, Valencia CF in Spain as well as a range of English venues.In 2015 & 2016 the team were invited to play in the Dallas Cup, USA.

Players’ Honours• 2013 - Harry Evans Final BCS England trial• 2013 - Joe Stone and Harry Evans SW Colleges team Alumni• Cody Cooke was signed on a Semi-Professional contract with

Truro City• James Ward represented Welsh Universities v England.• Kieran Conibear-Trathen & Danny Carne signed professional

contracts with Bodens BK in Sweden.• Chloe Richards has recently been voted top female player in

the North American Colleges League (at University of Alabama)

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Medics’ Academy

The Truro and Penwith College Medics’ Academy is run in partnership with Peninsula Medical School students as part of the Widening Access to Medical School (WAMS) initiative.

This is a wholly student-led organisation with the aim of informing, encouraging and inspiring students into medicine.

The Medics’ Academy prepares students for a future application to a degree in medicine.

Term 1The work covered in this term will build your awareness of what universities look for in students who apply to medicine. This will include:• The academic qualifications needed and the use of university

entrance tests• The relevant work experience needed• The personal qualities they seek, and how to evidence such

qualities• The link between academic study and medical issues/ethics• Additional qualities that the universities will assess• An appreciation of what a degree and career in medicine

entails

Lectures delivered include external speakers from a range of medical schools and relevant disciplines as well as College staff.

Term 2Work covered in this term will include:• A course delivered over the term by the WAMS students in

years four and five at the Peninsula Medical School. Through individual sessions and group work the course will address and take forward the foundation work covered in Term 1

• A course delivered over the term, which will address the breadth of work experience needed for an application to medicine

Term 3The work covered in this term will prepare you for your actual application to medicine, which will take place at the start of Term 4. This will include:• Revision lectures for the university entrance exams for

medicine, which include the UKCAT and BMAT tests• Lectures to support you in writing your personal statement for

an application to medicine• Small group sessions run by the Peninsula Medical School

WAMS students to prepare students for an interview at medical school

• Lectures on how to optimise your choice of medical school in relation to your individual strengths

Music Academy

The Academy promotes a range of music genres as an important part of the life and culture of the College.

It gives students with a talent for jazz, classical and musical theatre a chance to develop their skills and enjoyment of music and to join together in larger groups for rehearsals and performance events.

What is the Music Academy?This is where you’ll get to take part in musical ensembles of all kinds. A jazz band, vocal group, string ensembles, brass group, steel pan band, flute ensemble and saxophone ensemble are our current activities. In addition there is a music theory class, which helps develop musicianship and leads to grade exams. We’ll ask you to be involved in at least two activities.

Who can join?The Academy is a good fit for students who can read music to a reasonable standard (at least Grade 4/5). Although potential students may be studying music on a course that requires the study of music in the classical western tradition, the Academy is also open to all students who have the necessary musical abilities and commitment.

What music will I play?All kinds as long as it requires reading the dots! You can suggest music or composers you would like to perform. Most popular are film music, funk, jazz and musical theatre. Mozart always seems to have a place.

What’s the aim?To enjoy playing and singing music, developing ensemble skills and performing concerts.

Participants in any musical activity must be available for public performance and will take part in at least two activities. The calendar of music performances will be published in September of the academic year and is likely to include at least four events for each performance group. Some groups may share participation in the same event.

It’s great for the CV, great for the UCAS reference and great fun!

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Netball Academy

The Netball Academy caters for a range of abilities, providing the opportunity to play in one of three College teams at Truro and two at Penwith.

Most players tend to play for local clubs, many of them in regional leagues, although the third team tend to play more for the social side of the game and are not always connected to local clubs. However we are proud that many players have progressed from third team status to first team over the two year programme. Truro and Penwith College Netball Academy provides fixtures where possible for our squads with local sides, schools competitions and in the Association of Colleges Leagues and tournaments. Our teams play in the AoC South Superleague, AoC SW 1 League and AoC SW 2 League.

Players have the opportunity of netball-related activities including work on skills, tactics, fitness, match play, and match analysis. All students have the opportunity to develop their own personal performance. There is a real club feeling to the Academy with a friendly atmosphere where everyone, regardless of experience or ability, is valued. Students are also encouraged to be involved in coaching and umpiring opportunities.

During the summer term many Netball Academy players help to run a Little League for the local primary schools. The players gain experience in coaching and leadership. Some students also gain experience working in a local secondary school assisting with coaching their school teams.

Training for the Academy starts during the summer holidays. Players attend one day a week giving them an opportunity to develop their skills, fitness and match play, and also helping them to make new friends before the College year starts in September.

Team honours• 2011/12 BCS Superleague South Winners and BCS

Superleague National Final Runners Up• 2011 - 2014 Cornwall County Netball U19 Champions• 2011 - 2014 British Colleges South West Champions• 2012/13 U19 South West Schools Champions• 2015 - Bronze Medal winners at AoC National Finals• 2016 - Cornwall County Netball U19 Champions• 2016 - Super League Playoff Winners

Rugby Academy

The Rugby Academy caters for a range of abilities giving the opportunity to play in one of three College teams at Truro and one at Penwith. With more than 80 students in the Academy there are teams playing in over 70 fixtures and tournaments per season.

All students will have the opportunity to compete for places in any of the teams which play weekly, although players in the first team squad will normally be of county standard or higher.

Players will have up to eight hours per week of rugby-related activities, which will include theory sessions, coaching, video analysis, fitness sessions, skills work and weight training. In addition to this there is an extensive fixture list on Wednesday afternoons, where games are played both locally and nationally at U18 and U19 levels.

The College competes in the AASE league along with the other premiership academies (Wasps, Leicester, Sale, London Irish and Gloucester), the Association of Colleges Sport Leagues and Cups, as well as friendly matches against local schools and colleges. In recent seasons the College has won the Daily Mail Cup, British Colleges U19 Knock-Out Cup, National 10s and 7s, South West Colleges League and Samurai 7s. The most recent success was winning the AASE League Plate at Allianz Park in 2014 and were AoC Premier Cup Finalists in 2016.

The Academy has also toured to South Africa and Dubai, as well as competing at The Sanix Junior World Rugby Tournament in Japan in 2010, 2012 and 2015. The College were finalists in both tournaments, where the best teams from South Africa, Australia, France, Canada, Tonga, Fiji, Korea and Japan competed making them the highest placed British team since the tournament began. Due to these successes the Truro College Rugby Academy was invited for the fourth time and travelled to Japan in April 2016 for the Sanix Youth Championships.

The Cornwall RFU has been very successful in developing players in the under 16 age groups. These players at post-16 have been faced with difficult choices. Often they have left the county to relocate and continue with both their rugby and their education. This joint initiative between Truro and Penwith College and Exeter Chiefs’ Rugby Academy provides players with the real opportunity of a first-class education, coupled with first-class rugby coaching, whilst staying in Cornwall. As well as these links with Exeter Chiefs many players will also play for Cornish Pirates, Plymouth, Redruth and the Cornish All Blacks in the National Leagues.

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Surf Academy

The Surf Academy welcomes surfers of all standards who will either be involved in the competition or participation strand.

Surfing is available from both campuses and has produced a competitive team of male and female surfers who compete in Surfing GB and UK pro tour events during the season. Students may have up to four hours per week of surfing-related activities.

The competition strand is for students with a high level of surfing skill and experience. Opportunities exist to take part in local and national competitions and events. Our competitive team takes part in UKPSA events and is considered extremely successful as a club. Students will have access to regular water-based sessions and top level specialist coaching that includes video analysis and board design sessions.

The participation strand encourages students to develop practical techniques and understanding of sea conditions, and will normally see students having a competent level of surfing ability that includes relevant personal equipment, knowledge of etiquette and green wave surfing. Participants must be confident in chest (2-3ft) surf and be able to access the water beyond the break. In addition all students will have regular land-based coaching sessions including training and fitness sessions.

There will be opportunities for students to undertake additional relevant qualifications such as Level 1 coaching qualifications, first aid and surf lifesaving.

Team honours• As a team we have achieved second place in the British

Interclubs event and third in the British Schools event (where we earn no points for U14 and U16 categories), finishing first in the U18 category.

Alumni• Tassy Swallow - World Junior Surfing Games, UK U18 Pro Tour

title. Pro Surfer• Paddy Daniel, Dale Foster and Liz Hodson - British U18 squad• Simon Trebilcock finished 2nd in the Scottish open• Rhys Barfield’s - 8th U18 European Juniors, 4th U18 British

Schools, U18 Welsh National Champion and surfer for Team GB at ISA World Juniors 2014

Tennis Academy

All players are welcome to join the Tennis Academy, from enthusiastic beginners to county and club players.

In conjunction with Truro Tennis Club, players from the Truro campus have the opportunity to receive professional coaching for up to six hours per week. Coaching will include individual racket skills, drills and preparation for match play. Sessions will take place at both the College and Truro Tennis Club.

At Penwith, players have the opportunity to receive professional coaching for up to six hours per week in conjunction with Penzance Tennis Club. Coaching includes individual racket skills, drills and preparation for match play, and sessions take place at Penzance Tennis Club.

All Academy players will receive additional support and advice on strength and conditioning and gain access to our extensive fitness facilities. We play in the Association of Colleges Sport tournaments, with the opportunity to qualify for the AoC National finals, as well as a range of county and regional tournaments.

Honours• 2013 - BCS National Championships. Alex Wright (men’s

singles), Chris Peters and Kayleigh Brockett (mixed doubles), Julia Hoskin and Scarlett Bringuenti Bennett (girls’ doubles)

• 2014 - AoC National Finals. Amy Johns (girls’ singles), Ben Lakeman and Scarlett Bringuenti-Bennett (mixed doubles)

• 2015 - AoC National Finals. Ben Vulliamy and Ben Lakeman (men’s doubles), Amy Johns and Nick Peters (mixed doubles)

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College is very different to school. There is a close bond between lecturer and student through the shared subject interest. The guidance you receive at College is great. It’s different from school because they are giving advice about the best approach - it’s up to you whether you take the advice and achieve your potential.

Jake Clemson from Carbis BayBusiness Studies, Economics, English Literature and Psychology A Levels and the Rugby Academy

Previously from St Ives School

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The Low-downInformation for new students

Student Life & OpportunitiesStudy PlusIn addition to your course and as part of your timetable, you will choose from the wide range of activities which form our Study Plus programme. Study Plus activities are offered throughout the week. As well as adding to your CV or university application, these can give you a break from your studies and enable you to meet people from other courses.

You can follow an activity that complements your existing studyor use it to discover something entirely new. There are many activities you can choose from, plus the opportunity to gain work experience. If we don’t offer an activity that interests you, let us know and we’ll see if we can add it to the Study Plus programme.

Health, Wellbeing & SportTruro and Penwith College is committed to providing an environment where students can grow and develop by offering regular recreational activities in addition to the Sports Academy provision. We offer students a menu of recreational physical activities to fit around student timetables, to help promote health and wellbeing.

The Truro and Penwith College Sports Maker oversees a team of Activators who help deliver the national award winning Health, Wellbeing and Sports programme that targets students who would benefit from regular participation in physical activity. The menu of sports opportunities is fully inclusive and diverse to encourage all students to access the activities. The programme has been developed to support students throughout their time at College, and help them achieve their academic goals. The free menu of activities includes drop-in lunchtime activity sessions, where students can pop in with their friends to relax and socialise whilst playing a bit of badminton, table tennis or basketball.

Other activities include pre and post-College gym sessions, swimming, climbing, football kickabouts, exercise classes, canoeing and trampolining. The programme has been developed through consultation with the Sport England, Association of Colleges Sport, College Student Council, Cornwall Sports Partnership and National Governing Bodies for Sport.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardThe Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is universally recognised as one of, if not the best, programme for the personal development of young people. If you participate in the Award you will experience an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding programme of personal development. Taking part builds confidence and develops self-esteem. It requires persistence, commitment and will have a lasting impact on your attitudes and outlook.

On the DofE programme you will complete different types of activity to achieve an Award e.g. volunteering, physical, skills, expedition and residentials.

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Campus LifeAs you can see, there are many chances for you to thrive, explore, develop and learn, but some days you may just like to enjoy campus life, meet your friends and relax in one of the cafés and outdoor areas on campus.

AcademiesAs a full-time student you could join one of our Academies. These have been set up to encourage development and excellence in a wide range of sports as well as music, academic study and for those interested in the medical profession. Academy activities are included into your timetable enabling you to access as much as possible without interfering with your studies.

Creative ArtsIf you have an interest in the creative arts you may be able to contribute to one of the many performances or exhibitions throughout the year, both at College and outside venues. Annually, the College holds an Art and Design Exhibition in Penzance that is open to the public. This event attracts hundreds of people to view your work.

FundraisingYou may want to become part of the strong tradition of fundraising within the College. You and your friends can select charities to support which in the past have included Shelterbox, CLIC, Lamin Appeal, Heart Foundation, Breast Cancer Care, Cancer Relief, Comic Relief and Children in Need. Fancy dress, hair dyeing and cake sales are just some of the antics you could be involved with in order to raise funds as well as the more formalised events such as Ten Tors, fun runs and marathons.

Travel OpportunitiesTravel opportunities exist either as part of your studies or for enrichment. Previous destinations have included Iceland, Swaziland, Paris and Toronto. There are also language exchange opportunities, local field trips and activity trips such as skiing.

Student AmbassadorsYou can help us spread the word about the amazing experience you have at Penwith College to future students. You can become a Student Ambassador and gain experience in PR work, visiting schools around the county, attending open events as well as helping new students at the start of term.

Student AssociationThe Student Association (PCSA) exists to represent all full time students in advising the College Management of educational and recreational matters that are of interest to the students of the College. Students are automatically members of the PCSA unless they choose not to be.

The Student Association Committee is elected at the end of the Spring Term. No Association membership fee is charged. Membership is not compulsory. One member of the Association acts as Student Governor, representing student views at relevant Board of Governors’ meetings.

Student Association CouncilThere are a number of events throughout the year organised by the Student Association Council and these are great opportunities for students to meet new friends.

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The Low-down

The College Campus & ResourcesThe College CampusMac suites, a games studio, construction workshops and a stunning central amphitheatre are just some of the facilities you will find around the campus to enhance your studies, as well as subject-relevant labs, classrooms, studios, performance spaces and IT suites you would expect from one of the top colleges in the country.

If you are learning catering skills or enjoy excellent food, the Senara restaurant and catering kitchen is open four days a week for lunch. The food and services, all provided by our catering students, have already received accolades, impressing chefs and food writers alike. Open to the public, as well as the College community, the incredible value for money means reserving your table is a must.

There are multiple, well-equipped performance spaces for you to explore your talents. Music technology rooms have workstations, running current music software. The fully equipped recording studios are used for teaching and you can book them for your use.

You can use our theatre and studio spaces, inside and out, for dance and drama performances or if your interests are more behind the scenes, our technical theatre equipment forms a great learning tool. Due to our excellent facilities, there is a varied programme of performances, workshops and external classes across the College as a whole, which you will be able to access.

We have excellent sports facilities which you can access during the day. There is an indoor multi use games area for a range of sports and a fully equipped fitness suite for strength, conditioning and aerobic activity.

There is also a third generation floodlit Astro turf pitch, providing such a high standard facility that is it is used by the Cornish Pirates for training. Penzance Leisure Centre, including a swimming pool, is situated over the road from the College.

Hair and beauty students learn in our Inspiration salons where you can enjoy a discounted hair cut or treatment. If you are looking to unwind from your studies with a relaxing massage, getting a quick trim before heading out with your friends or a quick splash of colour with a manicure, you can get it all right here at College.

Through libraries and IT suites you will have access to a comprehensive range of contemporary books, journals, audiovisual and online materials that will provide inspiration for studying and improve your results.

Learning and leisure are blended successfully. There are cafés and social spaces across the campus to enable you to enjoy your time outside of taught classes, and of course, the breathtaking view across Mount’s Bay and St Michael’s Mount.

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AccessThe buildings at Penwith College are almost unique amongst colleges because the facilities are accessible to all students. All parts of the College may be accessed by people with limited mobility and within the College there are a number of lifts designated for their use.

RefreshmentsPenwith College has several eating areas around the campus. A wide variety of reasonably priced meals, sandwiches, drinks and snacks are all available on site. Details of opening times will be published in the Student Diary, available at the start of the academic year. The College operates a cashless catering system.

Learning Centres (Libraries & IT Suites)The College has many Learning Centres right across the campus. These are areas where traditional printed resources sit alongside our expanding electronic provision. The open-access computers in each IT Suite offer a wide range of software and there are staff available to support your use of the facilities.

Necessary books are provided by the College and must be returned in good condition. Students are asked to pay a resources deposit which will be refunded if all text and library materials are returned. The Learning Centres hold relevant collections of books, journals, DVDs and CDs, and there is increasing electronic access to books as well as online journals and databases via the College Intranet Virtual Learning Centre.

Information TechnologyThe College has a large number of computers capable of using an extensive range of software available for students to use on a drop-in basis. Students are expected to improve their awareness of, and skills in, Information Technology (IT). There are many IT workshops with staff who can support you in your use of IT. The College has Wi-Fi throughout the buildings which enables students to access the Internet and complete College work using their own network enabled device.

College ShopAlmost all of the materials needed for your course should be available through the shop. Prices are very competitive compared to retail outlets. Products available include photographic, electronic and computer consumables. It also has a wide range of art and stationery materials. All money for trips and visits are collected here.

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The Low-down

Support ServicesGCSEs & Functional SkillsAll students yet to achieve GCSE Grade C or above in English and/or maths will have to study an appropriate level course as part of their programme of study at College. This will be either GCSE or Functional Skills and will be determined by previous qualifications and an initial assessment. For students who have already achieved a grade C there are opportunities available to improve to a higher grade. In many cases progression opportunities will be dependent on achievement of English and Maths.

Students can access this type of programme by speaking with their Programme Team Leader (PTL).

Learning SupportMany students discover during their course that they require some additional help with an aspect of their studies. The College will always endeavour to meet your needs and in the Study Centres you will find staff who can help with Literacy, Numeracy and general Study Skills.

Tutor SupportAt Penwith College you will get to know many members of staff and other students easily. You will be assigned a tutor who usually will be one of the people who teach you. Your tutor will get to know you well and will usually be the first person you go to if you need advice or help.

You will also join a tutor group of students for which a senior member of staff will be responsible.

Careers GuidanceThe College has received the Investor in Careers Award in recognition of the comprehensive service which is provided. We have a commitment to offer impartial, supportive, timely and informal careers guidance to all students. Students have entitlement to careers education and guidance from tutors and course lecturers, PTLs and the careers adviser. We conduct individual careers interviews with students and offer workshops to tutor groups.

Students have the opportunity to discuss their personal progression routes and receive support in making decisions appropriate to their needs. You will find a range of careers literature and software available in Student Services and resources areas around the College. College careers staff are well-qualified, receive regular training and participate in many initiatives in this fast changing field.

Student Services If you are in need of advice, guidance and support, the Student Services team is dedicated to helping you. We want you to successfully complete your course and our professional team of staff will work with you, to support you in progressing into your future career or into Higher Education.

Student SupportSupport given is wide ranging and any problems experienced by students during their course, either personal or academic, will be addressed as quickly as possible.

Mental Health, Welfare & Counselling SupportIf there are any issues that a student feels they need advice and support with, such as anxiety, relationships or drugs and alcohol they can see a member of the Student Services team. They can also advise on benefits and help with housing matters. Additionally, students can also talk to a mental health nurse and safeguarding person within the team.

Some students, whilst studying, may experience emotional and personal issues that need to be shared with a qualified counsellor. Penwith College offers a professional counselling service to students to explore situations causing concern.

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matrixTruro and Penwith College has received matrix accreditation. This is the national quality standard for any organisation that delivers information, advice and guidance on learning and work.

Truro & Penwith College Bursary FundThis fund is to assist students with travel, essential equipment and trips. Applicants are means tested. Forms can be collected from Student Services.

Attendance AdviceAdvice is given by Personal Tutors and the Learning Mentors on procedures to keep your attendance record accurate and up-to-date.

ChildcareIt is important that you seek advice from Student Services regarding fees for childcare as some help may be available to you.

Equality & Safeguarding Equality of OpportunityTruro and Penwith College is committed to meeting its duties contained in the Equality Act 2010. We aim to create a culture of inclusiveness and to challenge discrimination, taking positive action in order to remove barriers to the educational and personal progression of individual learners. To achieve this aim the College will not tolerate unfair or unlawful discrimination.

The College’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy and commitment to the Investors in Diversity standard demonstrates that the College will seek to remove any existing barriers to all staff, students, governors and visitors, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnerships, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

Truro and Penwith College endeavours to promote an inclusive working and learning environment, which supports the individuals within its community irrespective of their background. The College aims to promote equality of opportunity, by providing full and equal access to all students who can benefit from its provision and by encouraging and enabling all members of the College to build and contribute to a society which values cultural and social diversity. A focus on learner voice and involvement in instigating change reflects this commitment.

Learning Difficulties and Disabilities The College welcomes applications from students with learning difficulties and disabilities. Students can access a wide range of externally accredited and College-certificated courses through programmes that are developed to meet individual needs. Learning support and specialist equipment are provided as required.

Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults at Truro & Penwith CollegeTruro and Penwith College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This means that we have a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and appropriate procedures in place. All staff, including volunteers and governors, must ensure that they are aware of these procedures.

Sometimes we may need to share information and work in partnership with other agencies when there are concerns about a child’s, young person’s or vulnerable adult’s welfare. We will ensure that our concerns about our children, young people and vulnerable adults are discussed with their parents/carers first (as appropriate) unless we have reason to believe that such a move would be contrary to the child’s, young person’s or vulnerable adult’s welfare.

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College Policies & ProceduresStudent LifePenwith College has very few rules, but both you as a student and all College staff work within the Charter to ensure everyone has the most positive and beneficial experience possible.

Before you become a student at Penwith College we aim to provide you with information about the courses we offer and the practicalities of being a student here. We will let you know about transport, finance, equipment and progression. If you have any additional needs we will give you details of the individually tailored support you can expect at Penwith College. Once you apply, you can expect us to process your application fairly and efficiently and, normally within three weeks of receipt of your application form, provide you with a date and time for an interview. The interview is a good opportunity for both you and the College to ensure you are choosing a course that is right for you and you have all the information you need. After your interview a decision about a place at Penwith College can usually be made. When you start as a Penwith College student we will give you a thorough induction. You will receive a lot of new information including details on learning resources, dates, security, health and safety, safeguarding, attendance, assignments and College rules, procedures and policies. You will also be given a student handbook and diary which will give you a record of all the information for you to refer back to.

As a student at Penwith College you will accept more responsibility for your work and your progress than during your time at school. Many courses require you to work extensively on your own in College and at home. First class study facilities are available in the College and successful students use these effectively. We will help you to organise your work, but you will be responsible for ensuring that you meet deadlines. The College requires that you attend regularly and punctually and that you meet the demands of your course. We hope that you will enjoy your time at Penwith College and the staff at the College will work with you to help you achieve success.

College DayThe College day for full-time students will usually last from 9.15am to 4.15pm. Students will have more private study time than is the case with pupils in school.

The Truro & Penwith College Charter Just as we expect our students to aim at achieving a high standard, so students should have expectations that the College will deliver high quality learning programmes and services. The College Charter, available from Reception and online, sets out in more detail the standards we will achieve.

Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking PolicyThis College does not condone the use of drugs or alcohol. We seek to educate students about drugs and alcohol-related issues and provide help to those who ask for it. All Truro and Penwith College sites have a no smoking policy except within the designated smoking areas.

Data Protection ActAny information that you provide during the application process is protected under the 1984 Data Protection Act.

FeesIf you are aged 16 to 18 years and a student under the age of 19 on 31 August you will not normally be charged fees for tuition. Overseas students or mature students will be liable for fees and details will be available from the College.

Examination FeesFull-time students who do not pay tuition fees would not normally be asked to pay for examinations which are taken as part of the course with the College’s approval. Students who pay tuition fees will need to pay their own examination fees.

Fees WaiverStudents who are in receipt of an income-related, tested state benefit (or who are unwaged dependants of a benefit claimant) are not normally required to pay tuition fees. If you are concerned because you have to pay tuition fees then please contact Student Services on 01736 335000.

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Frequently Asked QuestionsMy school has a sixth form, do I have to stay there?Although you now have to stay in full-time education until the end of the academic year in which you turn 18, it’s your choice where you want to study.

Why should I choose Penwith College?There are many reasons why Penwith College is a great place to study after you have finished school. See pages 6 to 17 of this prospectus for information.

Can I have a look around the College?Of course, Penwith College run a number of open events throughout the year. You can meet the staff, see the fantastic new facilities and find out about your life as a student. See page 129 for full dates and times.

I can’t decide what type of course to take; what might help me choose?The ‘Your options explained’ section in this prospectus gives details about the types of courses we offer and what they entail. There is a huge choice at Penwith College, from A Levels to vocational courses and Apprenticeships, so there is bound to be something to suit you here. Visiting the College at one of our open events is highly recommended and talking to our staff will help you make this decision.

Can I go to university if I don’t take A Levels?Vocational courses also provide a proven route to university providing the subjects are compatible. College open events are a great opportunity for you to find out whether the course you want to follow is suitable for applying to university, as is your interview.

Do courses have entry requirements?Yes, most courses do, though we do offer courses for those with no prior qualifications and we always treat everyone as an individual. Please refer to the ‘Your Options Explained’ section for details of what grades you need to start your chosen course.

How do I apply for a course?The applications process is covered fully in the ‘How to apply’ section of this prospectus. You firstly complete an application form. These can be obtained from schools in Cornwall or by telephoning the College on 01736 335000. They can also be downloaded from the College website.

Can I just enrol in an Academy?No. Academies are offered only in conjunction with a full-time programme of study. They are intended as a supplement for, and not an alternative to, the qualifications the College runs.

When can I apply & when will my interview take place?You can send in your application from January onwards. Interviews take place at different times for everyone; this is because each application is looked at and assessed individually. Don’t panic if your friend has an interview date sent to them before you do - you haven’t been forgotten!

What questions will I be asked at my interview?Your interview is not a pass/fail test. It is a consultation where you discuss your plans for your future both in and beyond education. Your course choices are looked at relative to your own aspirations, to ensure that the two things match up reasonably well. Parents or carers can attend their child’s interview if they wish. At the interview, once a suitable course has been agreed, you will be given an offer card. You need to fill this out and return it to us as soon as possible.

What if I don’t get the GCSE grades I was expecting?Firstly, don’t panic! There’s a course for everyone available at the College - not attaining your expected GCSE grades does not mean your offer to study here has been withdrawn. That said, you will be asked to attend an advice session, to discuss whether pursuing the same courses as you selected before is the right choice for you, or if another course might suit you better in light of your recent results.

How will I get to College?Subsidised travel is available to full-time students under the age of 19 who live further than three miles from the College. A College transport system is also available for those who do not qualify for this; a bus pass can also be arranged for First routes. Buses on a direct pickup route should run to the College daily.

What is Study Plus?Study Plus is an opportunity to further your current interests, or develop new ones. Courses on offer can assist you in gaining further qualifications such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award, or they can simply be a way for you to enjoy pursuing your hobbies. Further information can be found under ‘Student Life’ in this prospectus.

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Truro and Penwith College is working in partnership with Cornwall Council and Sustrans (the UK’s sustainable transport charity - www.sustrans.org.uk) to promote active, sustainable travel to College and to reduce congestion.Choosing to travel on foot or by bicycle reduces air pollution and traffic congestion, whilst saving you money and keeping you fit. Using public transport also helps reduce your carbon footprint, so check out your travel options below and play your part in making Penzance a better place to study.

Walking to CollegeWalking is a simple way to fit activity into your day, it’s cheap and helps keep you fit. Why not transform your trip to the gym into your commute to College? There are numerous quieter walking opportunities from the centre of Penzance to the College which take approximately 15 minutes along residential streets.

There is a subway linking Heamoor, to the north, with the College to avoid crossing the A30 trunk road.

Cycling to CollegeCycling is a great option for travelling to College, especially if you live within three or four miles, where journeys by bike can take less than 25 minutes. There are so many benefits to travelling by bike - it’s good for our health, the environment and saves money at the same time. With the right clothing and equipment, weather and luggage need not be a barrier to travelling to College on two wheels. There is ample covered cycle storage around the campus and showers/changing facilities are available (shown on the cycle facilities map available at the transport desk and on the College website). Penzance is only a short 10 minute cycle ride away and it is possible to access the campus via quieter residential streets.

Cycle RoutesThere are traffic-free routes from Marazion and Newlyn into College which form part of the National Cycle Network. For further information on these and other routes visit Sustrans mapping at www.sustrans.org.uk/ncn/map. Details of the cycle network that connects many of the major towns in the county and forms The Cornish Way are available at www.cornwall.gov.uk/cornishway

Your Journey to College

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Research shows that regular adult cyclists have fitness levels of someone 10 years youngerSource: Sustrans (2007) the health benefits of walking and cycling to school.

Images courtesy of J Blewley/Sustrans

Buses Penwith campus is well served by public service buses; these can be caught at the stops adjacent to the College on Nancealverne. Visit the SouthWest Traveline website to check which public transport options are available: www.travelinesw.com or call 0871 200 22 33.

Truro and Penwith College Bus PassesStudents whose household income is less than £31,000 per year may receive a reduced rate Truro and Penwith College bus pass, or Cornwall Council assisted transport costs on application (*subject to review). For continuing students it will be dependent on a minimum of 90% attendance during the previous term, as recorded on the College’s MIS database.

A College transport service is available to students who do not qualify for subsidised travel. The College can arrange a bus pass on First service routes. In addition the College also provides transport links with Looe. Further details are available from the College and the College website. If you want to study at the College and if we agree that we have an appropriate course, we will do our best to help you come here. For full details of the buses which serve the campus contact the College transport desk on 01872 267003 or visit www.cornwallpublictransport.info

TrainsFrequent mainline trains serve Penzance station and regular buses connect to the College. Alternatively Adelaide Street and Taroveor Road provide a walking route along quieter streets, from the station to the College. This takes approximately 15 minutes to walk. Why not opt for a multi modal option? Bicycles can be transported by train - booking bikes onto high speed trains is mandatory and on other trains, at peak times, space may be limited and carriage of bikes is then at the operator’s discretion.

Driving to CollegeTruro and Penwith College promote the use of sustainable travel as the first option to get to your place of study. However, we recognise the fact that sometimes car travel is unavoidable. Car Share Cornwall provides a free service for passengers and drivers to meet and share car journeys. Click on the cost calculator on the www.carsharecornwall.com to work out how much you could save.

Students that wish to drive to College need to apply for a parking permit. These are issued on a case by case basis; forms are available on the College intranet. There is a cost attached to parking permits and parking spaces are limited on site.

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Lifelong LearningWe are committed to lifelong learning. You can progress on to one of our many Higher Education degrees, foundation degrees, HNDs, education qualifications or the Foundation Art and Design course. If you are returning to education, the Access to Higher Education courses provide an ideal progression route. Truro and Penwith College also offers a range of Part-time Courses, Business Services and Higher Education opportunities accessible to all ages.

Access to Higher EducationA great course to get you back into studying.

Truro College• Access to Higher Education: Humanities, Teaching and Law• Access to Higher Education: Nursing/Human Sciences• Access to Higher Education: Psychology, Counselling & Social

Work• Access to Higher Education: Science • Access to Higher Education: Teaching

Penwith College• Access to Higher Education: Creative Arts• Access to Higher Education: Humanities• Access to Higher Education: Health and Social Care

All students will study the core subjects in addition to their chosen pathway: Preparation for Higher Education (study skills, oral communication, evaluation) and information technology.

Access to Higher Education courses are designed to give students the necessary grounding to succeed in Higher Education. The majority of British universities will accept Access to Higher Education courses as an alternative to A Levels and other more traditional routes. Students are usually aged 19 or over at the beginning of the course and all applicants will be expected to attend an interview. The majority of students who have followed Access programmes at Truro and Penwith College have been successful in gaining places at colleges and universities of their choice. Courses normally start mid-September and end in mid-June. Taught hours will be approximately 15 hours per week depending on the pathway chosen. Courses usually run over three days and offer parent friendly hours (ie 9.30am to 3.15pm).For a leaflet please contact Truro College on 01872 267000 or Penwith College on 01736 335000.

Foundation Art & DesignAre you are keen to develop your creative skills, explore a wide range of specialist areas, learn new techniques, and challenge your imagination to discover where your creative talents lie? This Foundation Diploma course provides a year of practical study, enabling you to make informed decisions about your future prospects as an artist or designer, as well as possible applications to degree courses.

The course is broad-based, starting with a series of assignments that embrace a wide range of approaches, materials and techniques. As the year progresses you will specialise in the area of your choice. The emphasis throughout will be on research experimentation and creative exploration. Through a Contextual Studies Programme you will study the work of other artists and designers relevant to your own studio practice, which will be supported by an (optional) study trip abroad to visit museums and contemporary galleries. Life Drawing is taught on a weekly basis in order to help develop your observational skills.

You will be fully supported through the degree application process with preparation for specialist presentations and the development of portfolios of work.

Entry RequirementsStudents will normally be 18 years when starting this course, having achieved A Level qualifications or an Extended Diploma within art-based subjects. Mature students with or without formal qualifications are welcomed. All applicants are interviewed with a supporting portfolio of creative work.

This course is also offered as part time over a two year period.For an application form please contact Truro College on 01872 267000.

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Part-time CoursesGet more from your favourite hobby, or discover a new one with our extensive range of recreational courses. From exploring your creative side with a variety of arts and crafts courses, including life drawing, watercolour painting, dressmaking and flower arranging to discovering the world’s cuisine through a selection of cookery programmes, with dance, fitness and music classes in between, there is bound to be something for you. Looking to boost your skills or change career? We offer plenty of qualification courses to enhance your employability. With courses in administration, accounting and personnel, to law and teaching, as well as hair and beauty programmes, there are lots of opportunities available to improve your prospects, whether you are just starting out or aiming higher up the career ladder. If you would like to find out further information or enrol, please contact our friendly Part-time Courses team on 01872 265800 / 01736 335149 or email ptinfo@truro-penwith.ac.uk

Higher EducationLocal university courses with both full-time and part-time routes are available at Truro and Penwith College.

Do you want to gain a full degree, a foundation degree or an HNC/D? If so the College offers a wide range of university courses delivered in a friendly environment with excellent teachers and modern facilities. You will be taught in small groups and receive significant personal support from our team of tutors and support staff.

Top-up degrees: BA (Hons) Applied Media, BA (Hons) Education & Training, BA (Hons) Human Behavioural Studies, BA (Hons) Silversmithing & Jewellery, BSc (Hons) Applied Computing Technologies, BSc (Hons) Applied Social Science, BSc (Hons) Applied Sport & Health Science, BSc (Hons) Archaeology

Foundation degrees & HND/C: Subject areas include: Art & Design, Business & Law, Education, Community & Counselling, Health, Humanities, Initial Teacher Training, IT & Computing, Media & Photography, Science, Sport & Public Services, ITT courses and University short courses. For more information about the exciting range of Higher Educationopportunities and a copy of the latest prospectus just call us on01872 267122 or email heenquiry@truro-penwith.ac.uk You can also ring 01872 267122 to book a place at the HE Open Day on Saturday 5 November 2016, 10.00 am until 3.00 pm.

Truro & Penwith College BusinessThe Truro and Penwith College Business team works with businesses across Cornwall to deliver high quality learning solutions for their staff. The team is based across all Truro and Penwith College sites including Penwith, Truro, Newquay and its four-storey Training Centre in Truro City Centre, Haven House. The business training is delivered by a range of expert delivery staff in departments across the College.

We aim to improve business and individual performance through working in partnership with businesses to:

• Bring talent into businesses through traineeships, apprenticeships and individual training programmes

• Provide professional qualifications and courses for individuals to progress their careers

• Design bespoke training delivered where and when a business needs it

Support for the business could including management training, business skills seminars, professional qualifications, tailored training, apprenticeships, coaching and mentoring and development programmes incorporating groups of staff. The College has a huge variety of courses to support businesses ranging from engineering to hospitality, child care to construction, health and social care to IT and carpentry to leadership development. The team are here to help provide advice and support to individuals and businesses in order to upskill and progress in future careers.

If you are a young person and would like to find out more about Apprenticeships, our team of experienced advisers are available to discuss them with you. They can also show you how to access the Apprenticeship Vacancy Matching Service to help you to find the right job. You can download our free guide on how to get an Apprenticeship from our website.

If you are a parent or an employer, we can explain how Apprenticeships work and the benefits that businesses and Apprentices achieve through the programme.

For further information and advice please contact:Truro and Penwith College Businesstelephone: 01872 242711email: business@truro-penwith.ac.ukweb: www.truro-penwith.ac.uk/business

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Your next steps:

Come along to an Open EventOur Open Events are a great way to meet and speak to our teaching staff, current students and to take part in a range of

activities. See the opposite page for dates and times.

Attend a short interviewOnce you’ve applied we’ll invite you in for a short interview to

talk through your course choices and options. When everyone’s happy you will get your course offer and entry requirements.

Get in touchCall us to confirm your place or if you’re not sure of your next

move we can help. Talk to our friendly advisers who are here to help you work out the best path to that dream career.

Fill out an application formYou’ll find application forms for download on the College

website, or ask for one at the College. If you need any help completing your form just get in touch with our helpful team. You

can also complete a 16+ Option Form at your current school.

Have a think and do your researchWhat subjects are your favourites, which do you enjoy the

most? What is your dream career and what subjects or courses will help you get there?

Get your GCSE resultsWhatever your results we know you’ll have done your very best. We will send you a letter explaining how to tell us your results.

How to Apply

That’s itAll that’s left is to come along to your induction at the College in September. We look forward to

seeing you then.128

Sat 26 Nov 2016 Open Day 10am - 3pmThu 02 Feb 2017 Open Evening 5pm - 8pmSat 11 Mar 2017 Open Morning 10am - 1pmWed 03 May 2017 Open Evening 5pm - 8pm

We are Open Visit usDiscover why we are Outstanding at one of our many open events. Meet the staff, tour the campus and explore your options.

129

IndexA

Academies 108 & 117Access 119Access to Higher Education 126Attendance Advice 121

C

Campus Life 117Careers Guidance 120Childcare 121College Day 122College Policies & Procedures 122College Shop 119Contents 3Course List 4Creative Arts 117

D

Data Protection Act 122Drugs, Alcohol and Smoking Policy 122

E

Equality of Opportunity 121Equality & Safeguarding 121Examination Fees 122

F

Fees 122Fees Waiver 122Foundation Art & Design 126Frequently Asked Questions 123Fundraising 117

G

GCSEs & Functional Skills 120

H

Health, Wellbeing & Sport 116Higher Education 127How to Apply 128

I

Information Technology 119

L

Learning Centres (Libraries & IT Suites) 119Learning Difficulties and Disabilities 121Learning Support 120Lifelong Learning 126

M

matrix 121Mental Health, Welfare & Counselling Support 120

O

Outstanding Academies 14Outstanding Education 8Outstanding Experiences 12Outstanding Opportunities 16Outstanding Results 10

P

Part-time Courses 127

R

Refreshments 119

S

Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults 121Student Ambassadors 117Student Association & Council 117Student Life & Opportunities 116 & 122Student Services 120Student Support 120Study Plus 116Support Services 120

T

The College Campus & Resources 118The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 116The Low-down 116The Truro & Penwith College Charter 122Travel Opportunities 117Truro & Penwith College Bursary Fund 121Truro & Penwith College Business 127Tutor Support 120

W

We are Open. Visit us. 129We are Outstanding 7Welcome 2

Y

Your Journey to College 124Your Options Explained 18

130

131

How to get to Penwith College

Open EventsDiscover why we are Outstanding. Meet the staff, tour the campus and explore your options.

Sat 26 Nov 2016 Open Day 10am - 3pmThu 02 Feb 2017 Open Evening 5pm - 8pmSat 11 Mar 2017 Open Morning 10am - 1pmWed 03 May 2017 Open Evening 5pm - 8pm

Get in touch Call us on 01736 335000

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/truro.penwith.college

Follow us on Twitter @Truro_Penwith

Visit us online www.truro-penwith.ac.uk

Email us on enquiry@truro-penwith.ac.uk

If you require this document in any other format please contact Penwith College on 01736 335000.

Correct at time of print. Prospective students should check with the College for up-to-date information. This document is a guide for the information of students and parents. It is not intended to create any contractual relationship. Courses and other details may be modified if necessary. Programmes of study leading to a qualification are subject to the approval and regulations of awarding bodies. Many thanks to all our students, past and present, who appear in this prospectus.

Penwith College, St Clare Street, Penzance, Cornwall TR18 2SA

A30 fromthe West

A30 fromthe East

A30A30

Chyan

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Cliff

Mar

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Alverton Rd

St Clare Street

Morrab R

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Wha

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Western Prom. Rd

Taroveor RdPenalverne DrPolice Station

Railway Station

Bus Station

HospitalLeisure Centre

Penzance School of Art

From Heamoor

Tesco

From Newlyn

Penwith College