Frequently Asked Questions
Beginning further education is a big thing and we know you'll have lots of questions for us before enrolment! You will find a list of commonly asked questions below.
When do I start College?
New students - Year 12 & Access to Level 3 (ATL3) - start on Thursday 3rd September.
When will I receive my timetable?
Timetables will be provided shortly before your start date.
Can I get any financial help?
After you have enrolled, you can apply for a college bursary to assist with bus travel, compulsory course kits (for subjects such as Art, Design, Textiles, Maths, and Music Technology), printing costs, compulsory trips, course-specific music and singing lessons, and free college meals. All information and the application form are available on our website here.
Can you help me set up my student portal, email, and Multi Factor Authentication?
Yes, we have already sent you some instructions but if you are still experiencing difficulties, you'll find guidance here. Alternatively, we can assist you at enrolment or you can email us at ITsupport@stbrn.ac.uk
I am unable to attend my enrolment appointment. What should I do?
Please email us at info@stbrn.ac.uk to inform us, and we will try to reschedule for another slot, or you will be booked into our late enrolment day in September.
What should I do if I don’t achieve my expected grades?
Attend your enrolment slot, and we will help you explore other options. Please note: you must achieve at least a grade 3 or above in both English Language and Maths to enrol at our College. Please check individual course pages for additional entry criteria required for your courses.
What should I do if I want to change a course?
You can discuss a potential course change at your enrolment appointment. This will be discussed with you by reviewing your GCSE grades and checking there is space available on the subject you wish to change to. If the subject is full, you will be added to the waitlist. You also have the option to change a subject within the first three weeks of term when we run course change surgeries daily between 3-4pm.
What if my grades are better than expected?
Attend your enrolment slot, and we will help you explore additional opportunities.
I haven’t been accepted into my first choice of college or sixth form. Is it too late to apply to St Brendan’s?
Please complete the online application form here, and we will contact you to discuss your options.
Can I enrol online, or must I do it in person?
You must come to College to enrol, as we need to verify your results slips, proof of ID, and set up your student ID.
Can I sign up for Aspire at enrolment?
Yes, you can. The Aspire Programme offers high-quality information, advice, guidance, and support for our most academic students, helping them prepare for competitive university courses, including Oxbridge.
Can I sign up for clubs and enrichment activities?
Yes, we offer a wide range of clubs and activities, including the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Student Union, Student Ambassador team, sports teams, and the Chaplaincy. During your first week at the College, we will host our Freshers Fair where you can learn more and sign up.
What can I wear to College?
Students do not have a uniform; wear what you are comfortable in.
How can I get to College? Are there buses available?
The College is well served by various transport options. Click here for more information on bus, cycling, and train options.
Is there somewhere to get food?
Yes, we have 2 cafés offering snacks as well as hot and cold meals. The cafés are cashless, so please remember your bank card.
How can I join a sports team?
We have a state-of-the-art facility for both competitive and recreational sports during the College day. We compete against local schools and colleges and participate in regional leagues. Here are some teams you can join:
- Girls Football
- Boys Football
- Boys Rugby
- Girls Rugby
- Netball
- Volleyball
- Basketball
- Climbing
To get involved, please email sportsenrichment@stbrn.ac.uk (please note this email account is only monitored during term time).
We are proud to offer a county-standard sports hall catering to a variety of sports, including badminton, basketball, and netball. Our sports department also features a dance studio and a fully equipped gym open Monday to Friday from 08:55 to 16:00.
What stationery and other items do I need to bring to College?
- Timetable (in your student portal)
- Highlighters
- Pens (a black biro or black ballpoint pen is needed for exams)
- Pencils and sharpener
- Ruler
- Eraser
- Pencil case
- Calculator (natural display if you're taking any maths subjects)
- Graphic calculator (for further maths)
- Folders
- Books
- Textbooks
- Memory card or USB stick
- Laptop or tablet
- Lined or squared paper
Other items you might need:
- Refillable water bottle
- Packed lunch (if you prefer not to buy food every day)
- Mobile phone
- Bank card for purchasing food and beverages
Am I allowed to leave the site at lunchtime?
Yes, you are allowed to leave the site at lunchtime, but please ensure you return on time for your next lesson.
