What is Bridges?
Bridges is a 14+ specialist skills vocational
training facility situated at Bedford College’s Cauldwell Street
site main site. It offers training in a wide range of vocational
areas to students in years 10 and 11 at school.
How do students get to come and study at
Bridges?
All Bridges students are currently at an upper
school in north and mid Bedfordshire. Students have the opportunity
to apply for 14+ courses during the options process in year 9. The
student's school must support the application.
Can I apply directly to the College?
No, all applications must come via your
school.
Are there any entry criteria for the 14+
courses?
Yes, depending on the course level. Full
details can be found on the course
information sheets.
What is the typical length of a College
course?
Most of our courses run across both years 10
and 11 in line with the school calendar. Students generally attend
one day per week.
What is the length of a typical day?
Classes run from approximately 9.30am until
3.00pm. This allows travelling time, as some of our partner schools
are located some distance from the College.
Who organises the transport?
All transport arrangements are organised by
your school.
If I study a vocational course at Bridges what will I
achieve?
All of our programmes lead to industry
recognised qualifications and have an allocated points score.
Will I be able to continue with my chosen vocational
area beyond year 11?
Yes, all of our programmes offer the
opportunity to progress onto a higher level of study post-16 at the
College.
Will I be treated like a Bedford College
student?
Yes, you will be issued with a Bedford College
ID card and be able to access all Bedford College facilities. You
will also have to abide by the College code of conduct.
How will I know what is expected of me by the
College?
You will have a comprehensive induction at the
beginning of your programme. 14+ staff and your tutors will clearly
explain to you how your course will run and what will be expected
of you. You will also received a handbook which contains lots of
useful information.
Will I be able to go off-site at lunch
time?
As long as we have permission from both your
school and parent/guardian you will be permitted to go off site
during the lunch breaks.
What will I have to wear?
This depends on the course that you have
chosen to study. Most of our courses require you to wear some kind
of personal protective equipment, i.e. steel capped boots,
overalls, chef’s whites. This is a health and safety requirement
and therefore non-negotiable.
How does the College communicate with my
school?
College and school staff meet on a regular
basis to review the programmes and your progress. College tutors
also produce reports which are sent to your school. Your school
will also be involved in any discipline issues.
For further information please contact your
school in the first instance.