FAQs

What is a 16-19 Free School?

16 to 19 free schools are stand-alone educational institutions for the education of 16 to 19 year-olds. They are funded directly by the EFA on the basis of the national funding formula for 16 to 19 provision.

Why is Callywith College a Free School?

Truro and Penwith College has chosen to work with the Department for Education to deliver Callywith College as a Free School. Callywith College is part of the Truro and Penwith College Bodmin campus ensuring that the College has the necessary support both educationally and financially to deliver the proposed vision.

Is Callywith College part of Truro and Penwith College?

Callywith College is run in association with Truro and Penwith College, which also owns the Callywith College site. Senior staff previously from Truro and Penwith College lead Callywith College, implementing common systems and processes, ensuring the same high levels of quality so that students enjoy the same outstanding experience.

Why should I choose Callywith College?

There are many reasons why Callywith College is a great place to study after you have finished school. See our section ‘Why choose us?’ page for information.

My 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 17, it’s your choice where you want to study.

Can I have a look around the College?

Callywith College run a number of Open Events throughout the year. Whether online or in person, you can hear from staff, view the fantastic facilities and find out about life as student.

I can’t decide what type of course to take; what might help me choose?

Our what to study page gives details about the types of courses we offer and what they entail. There is a wide range of A Levels and vocational courses to choose from, so there is bound to be something to suit you here.

Can I go to university if I don’t take A Levels?

Vocational courses 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, all courses do. Please refer to the ‘Your options explained’ section of the prospectus for details of what grades you need to start your chosen course or visit our course pages.

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.

How do I apply for a course?

For more information on applying, visit our How to Apply Page.

When can I apply and when will my interview take place?

You can apply from September 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! You will be asked to attend an advice day, to discuss whether pursuing your selected course 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?

Callywith College have partnered with Go Cornwall to provide the College bus service. Subsided travel is available to students from low income families. Details of our College services, timetables and any financial support available can be found here.

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 your hobbies. 

How can parents/carers get involved in running the College?

The College will be seeking to appoint two parent governors in September. This will be through an election process held in the Autumn term. Parents/carers will also be invited in to the College in September to meet key staff and ensure their full involvement throughout their child’s time at the college.