What to do if you’re wanting to go to University or Higher Education

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University is not the only way to achieve Higher Level qualifications.

It is a great option for some, but it is important to explore all the options to see what is right for you.

Apprenticeships

You can do Higher apprenticeships, including Degree apprenticeships. You don't pay any fees and you get paid at the same time. They usually last a minimum of 2 years but will be longer for a full Degree apprenticeship.

With a Higher Apprenticeship, you will work for an employer and spend most of your time in the workplace and spend around 20%-25% of your time in apprenticeship training. Many employers offer Degree apprenticeships and some of these advertise their opportunities here. 

You would apply in the same way you would do for a job and it would include an interview and other assessments with an employer.

Colleges

Large Colleges like Barnsley College have a range of courses including Foundation Degrees. Usually after doing a Foundation Degree (these take 2 years to complete), you can move on to a University to top-up your Foundation Degree to a full Degree (this is usually 1 year).

The course fees for these at Colleges are usually cheaper than at a University. This is a good option if you'd prefer to stay in your local community.

University 

Universities usually offer both Foundation Degrees and full Degrees. Foundation Degrees take 2 years and full Degrees take 3 years (full time).

Quite often, you may move away from home to study at University. However, there are many Universities within travelling distance of Barnsley including Sheffield, Huddersfield and Leeds.

University fees will likely be more expensive than other options. If you move away to go to University, you also need to think about the cost of living too, such as housing and other costs. You can explore different Universities and courses on the UCAS website here.

When it comes to paying for your Higher Education, there are various avenues to explore, ensuring you have the support you need to focus on your studies and make the most of your university experience.

Financial Support is available from:

• Student Finance England: This is a loan for all Higher Education students, whether you have a disability or not. It helps cover your course and living costs. Learn more here.

• Disabled Student’s Allowance: This helps with extra costs due to a learning difficulty or disability, including ongoing health conditions or mental health issues. Find out more here.
  

• Higher Education Setting: Your college or university is committed to ensuring you have a supportive learning environment. Their Student Services can offer additional support to meet your needs while you're studying.
  
• Social Care: If you receive Adult Social Care Services, this support will continue, even if you move to a new location for your course.

• Research the courses and settings that interest you.
  
• Seek support from your College, 6th Form, or TIAG advisor for guidance.
  

• Submit your UCAS application in the Autumn term of your final year.
  
• Your education setting will provide support throughout this process.
  

• If you receive social care, talk to your social worker early on about your Higher Education plans.
  
• Discuss your preferred choices and intentions with them.
  

• Start your application as early as possible, typically from March before your Higher Education begins in September/October. Apply here.

• Initiate your DSA application early, also from March before starting Higher Education.
  
• Don't forget, DSA requires a copy of your EHCP for assessment.
  

• Ensure the EHC Team receives a copy of your EHCP for DSA assessment.
  
• Contact them at ehcteam@barnsley.gov.uk or (01226) 773966.
  

• Provide a copy of your EHCP to your Higher Education setting.
  
• Ensure the university contacts the EHC Team at ehcteam@barnsley.gov.uk or (01226) 773966.
  

• Contact TIAG for assistance with applications, including Student Finance England and Disabled Students Allowance.
  
• Reach out via email at tiag@barnsley.gov.uk or call (01226) 775270.