Bookings
Book our Liaison Team for assemblies, careers evenings/days, college experience, twilight sessions, curriculum sessions, tours, open events, interviews and more
Schools Liaison Hub
Partnering with schools for student success
At New College Swindon, we are dedicated to collaborating with local schools to ensure every student in the Swindon and Wiltshire area is well-informed about possible educational pathways and empowered to achieve their full potential.
What can we do to help?
Our mission is to support schools, parents, and students in navigating the post-16 educational landscape. Guided by our ethos of “right learner, right course” our dedicated team is ready to provide comprehensive information and personalised advice on all our courses and qualifications. Whether your students aspire to become doctors, engineers, musicians, beauty technicians, or pursue any other career, we are here to guide them in making the best choices for their futures.
Engaging Opportunities For Years 9-11
To assist schools in guiding their students in their post-16 next steps, we offer a wide array of engaging opportunities. These include delivering activities in schools, such as assemblies and careers fairs, as well as hosting events at our college, like open evenings and taster sessions.
Full list of what we offer:
In School (years 9-11)
We offer tailored assemblies designed to meet your specific needs. Our presentations can range from 5 to 20 minutes and adapted to any group years 9-11. We will cover various aspects of our college offering and college life. You can choose to include all our programs, focus solely on vocational courses, highlight our sixth form, or incorporate information about Apprenticeships and the Institute of Technology (IoT). The content is entirely up to you!
Subject to availability, our lecturers are ready to visit your school and deliver engaging ‘taster’ sessions in a wide variety of subjects based on your preferences. Whether it’s Carpentry, Media Make-Up, Health and Social Care, or Digital Media, these hands-on sessions are designed to excite students about the possibilities ahead. By experiencing practical lessons (where possible) in subjects they may not have considered before, students are encouraged to think more deeply about their career interests and the pathways they’d like to pursue. These sessions are conducted at your school, providing a convenient and familiar environment for students to explore new subjects. This approach is particularly beneficial for groups of students who are unsure of their next steps, helping them make more informed decisions about their future careers and educational journey.
We offer specialised sessions in schools, allowing learners to explore their next steps. During these sessions, we engage with each student individually to explore a variety of options, providing impartial information, advice, and guidance. Our team collaborates with you to ensure every student receives comprehensive and reliable advice on their next steps. We assist students in scheduling their interviews with us directly during the session. If students are unable to attend college for their interview, we can conduct interviews at the school. We schedule regular check-ins to monitor students’ application progress, address any challenges, and help them set realistic goals and timelines for completing their applications. We ensure the session is accessible to all students, including those with different learning needs.
Our team can set up an engaging and visually appealing stand at your school’s parents’ evening. Our knowledgeable staff will be available to answer any questions from parents or learners about the college’s offerings, including course details, entry requirements, and the application process. We will bring a variety of promotional materials, such as course guides, prospectuses, mini-guides, and contact cards. If there are specific materials you would like us to promote, we can ensure they are available.
New College Swindon offers engaging and informative Careers/Post-16 option tutor talks for students in Years 9, 10, and 11, helping them make well-informed decisions about their future pathways. These sessions guide students through the various educational and career opportunities available after Year 11, including A-Levels, vocational courses, apprenticeships, and other post-16 options. Delivered by experienced advisers, the talks cover key topics such as course content, entry requirements, progression routes, and the benefits of different qualifications. The aim is to empower students with the knowledge and confidence to choose the right pathway that aligns with their interests, skills, and future aspirations. These tutor talks also encourage students to ask questions, engage in discussions, and explore how New College Swindon’s diverse provision can support their career goals. We can design sessions around your career education goals and create individual programmes to support you in your delivery of post-16 education.
We love being involved in careers fairs for the whole secondary age phase! At these events, New College Swindon provides valuable information about post-16 education options, showcasing a wide range of courses including A-Levels, vocational qualifications, and apprenticeships. Our team offers personalised advice and answers questions about entry requirements, course content, and career progression. Schools can decide what we showcase, whether it’s just vocational courses, just sixth options, or including/excluding the apprenticeship team. We bring interactive exhibits to help students understand the different programs we offer and what to expect from various courses. Our goal is to inspire and support students in making informed decisions about their future.
We are happy to offer mock interview sessions for local schools. These sessions are designed to help students gain valuable experience and confidence as they prepare for real-life interviews.
Our team will provide a supportive and realistic interview environment, ensuring that students are well-equipped to face their future career challenges. By participating in these mock interviews, students will have the opportunity to hone their skills, receive constructive feedback, and boost their self-confidence and resilience
We are delighted to offer dedicated apprenticeships talks to local schools! These informative sessions are designed to provide students with a comprehensive overview of what apprenticeships involve, including insights into higher-level apprenticeships.
Our expert team will guide students through the various pathways available, highlighting the benefits and opportunities that apprenticeships can offer. By attending these talks, students will gain valuable knowledge about the apprenticeship process, helping them make informed decisions about their future careers.
In School (years 12-13)
As a key part of our Access and Participation agenda, we can offer schools visits and presentations to give your students information and advice on locally available options for higher education.
Here at New College Swindon University Centre, we provide programmes from Level 4 to Level 6, in a variety of subject areas. We understand that for some students, going away to University campus isn’t for them, or just isn’t always possible, and if they know other options are available, they can make an informed choice about their next steps.
Our informative presentation is approximately 30 mins duration, with time for individual questions afterwards, and can be used for assemblies, or year group sessions. We can work with groups in a more ‘workshop’ style session, and we can also support individuals or groups of students who may be experiencing barriers to higher level study.
We are happy to attend your planned events, such as careers fairs or other ‘next steps’ events, bringing our unique stand designed to promote local study. It’s great for getting conversations going!
Typically we cover:
• Advantages and benefits of Higher Education
• Unlocking career and earning potential
• Diverse routes into HE qualifications
• The benefits of studying locally
• Funding and finance
• The support available
• The range of study/subject options available
• How to apply (UCAS)
• Discuss opportunities to come to us for campus visits or open events
We are also happy to discuss what we can do to support your needs in terms of bespoke presentations or events, such as subject specific taster sessions, just get in touch.
If you have other year groups who you feel would benefit from some information, perhaps before they make subject choices, we would be happy to discuss opportunities to work with you.
At College (year 9-11)
Encourage your Year 9-11 students to join us for our after-school College Taster Evenings at New College Swindon. These sessions are designed to help young people explore their future academic paths through hands-on experiences in subjects like Creative Arts, Engineering, and Health and Social Care. Students will meet our expert staff, explore state-of-the-art facilities, and participate in engaging workshops. Parents are welcome to join and learn more about college life, and students can bring their friends along too! The evening starts with a warm welcome from our Curriculum Manager, followed by exciting subject sessions and a chance to get all admissions questions answered by our friendly Liaison Team.
These events are held on various dates throughout the year, allowing students to pick the evenings that interest them most. They can attend as many sessions as they like to explore different subjects and opportunities. Encourage your students to discover their future with us! Booking is optional, so they can register interest online or simply turn up on the night.
For more information visit our dedicated College Taster Evenings page, or view the flyer in the ‘More Information’ section.
- July 7th – Both Campuses
- July 8th – Queens Drive Campus
What are these?
Our Welcome Days give applicants the chance to explore the college in more detail. They’ll join other students from their chosen courses, providing a great opportunity to meet future classmates ahead of September. It’s also the first step in their enrolment journey, helping them get familiar with the campus and what to expect.
Who are these days for?
All of our learners who have an active offer.
Do you have a group of students undecided about their future courses? Why not bring them to explore our fantastic campuses? These tours are designed to showcase the very best of what New College Swindon has to offer. Get your students excited for their future by visiting our Animal Care Centre, Beauty Salon, or Esports suite (At our North Star Campus). They can also check out the state-of-the-art hospital-grade ward and birthing suite, the 3G pitch, and our impressive art facilities (at our Queens Drive Campus).
These tours give students a taste of college life and can be paired with an ‘Application Station,’ where we use a computer suite to assist your Year 11s with the first steps in their college journey. Similar to a personalised open event, these tours work best with up to 20 students and are conducted by our enthusiastic Liaison team. They can be tailored to the interests of the students, ensuring each participant is fully involved and engaged.
We can also connect with our Additional Learning Support or Wellbeing team to talk to the group about the support they can expect to receive when they attend college.
You’ve already secured a conditional offer—congratulations! This upcoming session is a chance for you to connect with course staff, explore what lies ahead, and make sure everything feels right before you begin.
Here’s what to expect:
- 👋 Meet Your Tutors – Get to know the team you’ll be working with and feel welcomed into the course community.
- 🧭 Understand What’s Ahead – Learn more about course expectations, structure, and how it supports your future goals.
- 🗣️ Raise Any Questions – Whether you’ve got concerns or curiosities, this is the time to talk them through.
- ✅ Make Sure It’s the Right Fit – This is your opportunity to confirm your decision and feel confident and prepared for day one.
We’re looking forward to seeing you there and helping you take the next exciting step toward your future!
Who has to attend?
Attendance at one date is compulsory for all learners with an offer to study with us in September 2025. Parents /carers should also attend.
DATES:
| Curriculum Area | Date | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering & Motor Vehicle | Tuesday 20/01/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Trades & Technology | Wednesday 21/01/2026 | 17:00 – 18:30 | Wear sturdy footwear |
| Hair, Beauty & Animal Management | Thursday 29/01/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Health & Social Care, Education & Early Years | Wednesday 28/01/2026 | 17:30 – 19:00 | |
| Sport & Public Service | Monday 26/01/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Queens Drive Inclusive Learning | Thursday 05/03/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| North Star Inclusive Learning | Wednesday 04/03/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| NS Creative (Media Make Up, Media, Games Design, Film & TV, Art & Design) | Wednesday 11/03/2026 | 17:00 – 18:00 | Must bring portfolio |
| Business, Finance, Digital and eSports | Tuesday 10/03/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Sport & Public Service | Monday 16/03/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| QD Creative (Art & Design, Textiles, Photography) | Tuesday 24/03/2026 | Evening TBC | Must bring portfolio |
| Trades & Technology | Wednesday 18/03/2026 | 17:00 – 18:30 | Wear sturdy footwear |
| Hospitality and Travel & Tourism | Tuesday 17/03/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Trades & Technology | Thursday 26/02/2026 | 17:00 – 18:30 | Wear sturdy footwear |
| Health & Social Care, Education & Early Years | Wednesday 15/04/2026 | 17:30 – 19:00 | |
| A Level | Thursday 16/04/2026 | 17:30 – 19:30 | |
| Engineering & Motor Vehicle | Tuesday 28/04/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Hair, Beauty & Animal Management | Thursday 30/04/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Trades & Technology | Thursday 04/06/2026 | 17:00 – 18:30 | Wear sturdy footwear |
| Queens Drive Inclusive Learning | Thursday 11/06/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Engineering & Motor Vehicle | Wednesday 10/06/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Sport & Public Service | Monday 08/06/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Trades & Technology | Wednesday 17/06/2026 | 17:00 – 18:30 | Wear sturdy footwear |
| Hair, Beauty & Animal Management | Thursday 18/06/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| Health & Social Care, Education & Early Years | Monday 15/06/2026 | 17:30 – 19:00 | |
| Business, Finance, Digital and eSports | Tuesday 23/06/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 | |
| A Level | Wednesday 24/06/2026 | 17:30 – 19:30 | |
| North Star Inclusive Learning | Tuesday 30/06/2026 | 17:15 – 18:15 |
At College (Year 10)
What are College Experience Days?
Our College Experience Days offer Year 10 students from local secondary schools an exciting opportunity to experience a day in the life of a college student. We host these events at both our campuses. At North Star, students can explore two hands-on vocational lessons, while at Queen’s Drive, they can try out three engaging A-Level or T-Level courses. These events are filled with interactive activities and lessons led by our enthusiastic teachers, providing a real taste of what studying here is like. Students will have the chance to discover new passions, all while considering their future options. Schools can bring their students in for a full day’s experience during the school day. We coordinate these events through our school contacts, so please reach out to us to book your students onto these exciting days.
When do they take place?
- these occur at the end of June and beginning of July each year, contact us if you’d like to be involved
Bespoke
We can also offer bespoke activities, so if you have something in mind not listed please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via your NCS contact, or by emailing us at admissions@newcollege.ac.uk.
The Learner Journey
The image below is a visual representation of your journey with us at NCS.
Our Interview Process
Every learner that studies with us go through the interview process, to ensure we get the right learners on the right course. We know the word interview is strong and may sound scary but it a supportive activity meant to ensure our liaison team get to know you, what you like, what your strengths and interests are and that you are matched with the right course for your future.
To prepare, you might like to think about:
- What excites you about this course?
- Why does the subject interest you?
- Are you on track to meet the GCSE grade requirements for September? (as found on the course information section of the website)
It’s really important you attend your interview as you will not get a place in college without it. You can apply and interview for your place up until the middle of August, but it is best to get your application in early for peace of mind. Remember, you can change your mind as many times as you want as to the course you want to study, and also, that you can hold more than one offer with different providers – so if you are torn between your sixth form and college apply for both!
Meet your curriculum team
Following your interview with the liaison team and accepting your offer you will be invited and required to attend an evening with the curriculum team for your course area. This is an opportunity for you to meet your lecturers, go through any skills check and further confirm you have made the right decision. Parents are actively encouraged to attend this evening and ask as many questions as needed. You will receive an email invite to this event so please keep an eye on your inbox and junk box.
Our Enrolment Process
In July
Our enrolment process kicks off in July with a series of emails and instructions on how to get a head start on your enrolment and how to log into the enrolment portal (always make sure you keep an eye on your emails and your junk box as this is how we will communicate with you).
Over the summer
Over the summer you will check your details in the Learner Hub (this is where your account sits, and the place you went to apply to the college and accept your offer). Pay close attention to the email addresses and all personal information, changing anything you need to, or informing us of any changes needed. You will be asked to upload a photo of yourself. This is essential as all of our students have ID Badges here in college. There are clear guidelines on how to take and upload your photo in the Learner Hub.
On GCSE results day
Once you have picked up your results you are encouraged to log back into the Learner Hub and upload your results – this is the final part of your enrolment process. Our courses fill up quick, and it is a first come first served basis so please don’t delay. Don’t worry if you have not got the grades you had hoped for, or if you did better than expected, we have plenty of courses for everyone. Upload your results and follow the on screen instructions. In these circumstances you will be contacted by curriculum staff and guided through the process of ensuring you are enrolled onto the right course.
What Support Can I Get?
Below, you’ll find a list of valuable support websites offering guidance on careers, college applications, student well-being, financial support, and more. Whether your student is exploring future pathways, looking for application advice, or seeking additional support, these resources are here to help them make informed decisions about your next steps.
Meet The Liaison Team
Kirsty Barron
Head of Student Recruitment and Customer Services
Kirsty.Barron@newcollege.ac.uk
Vicky Aldrich
Customer Services and Liaison Team Leader
Vicky.aldrich@newcollege.ac.uk
Robyn Smith
Admissions, Advice and Guidance Officer
Robyn.Smith@newcollege.ac.uk
Lorna Benfield
Admissions, Advice and Guidance Officer
Lorna.Benfield@newcollege.ac.uk
Deborah Richards
Admissions, Advice and Guidance Officer
Deborah.Richards@newcollege.ac.uk
Kate Colman
Admissions, Advice and Guidance Officer
Kate.Colman@newcollege.ac.uk
Ocsian Gingell
Admissions, Advice and Guidance Officer
Ocsian.Gingell@newcollege.ac.uk
More Information
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College Newsletters
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A Guide to New College Swindon Tri-fold Leaflet
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Parent Guide
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Mini Guide 2026
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T Level Guide
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Taster Evenings Flyer
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What our students say...
“The foundation degree in Health and Social Care gave me the underpinning experience and skills required for what I wanted to do.”
Kara Gelston
Health and Social Care
“My teachers provided me with useful knowledge and insightful experience on their time in the industry. The stand out aspect of my course was that I could take part in multiple performances in front of audiences. College developed me both as a learner and person…after my course I am going to Liverpool Institute of Arts(LIPA) to do screen acting and digital media.”
Bertie
Performing Arts and Music
“I chose New College Swindon because the facilities enable individuals to enhance their interest and passion for healthcare. I have enjoyed the variety of the course and the support on offer to all students.”
Reuben
Health and Social Care, T Levels
“I received good support from the tutor and this course will allow safe working with colleagues”
Barry
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New College Swindon University Centre
Queens Drive&
North Star Avenue
Swindon
North Star Avenue
Swindon
Tel: 01793 498400
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Queens Drive Campus
North Star Campus
Adult Education Centre
New College Swindon University Centre
