1. There’s a broad and deep curriculum
Further Education (FE) Colleges offer a wide range of subjects, qualifications and levels, from A Levels to hands-on vocational courses like Electrical Installation or Plumbing and T Levels. FE Colleges offer a wider range of A Level subjects than many schools and support large numbers of students progressing to university, including Russell Group institutions. Colleges deliver each subject at a range of levels so students can enter at the level that suits them and progress through to the same destinations, whether that’s into work or on to university. I find that visitors are often surprised at the range of courses on offer and by the specialist facilities we have.
2. We provide skills to meet industry needs
FE Colleges are defined by their outward looking culture. Close interaction with employers includes live, employer-led projects and embedded high-quality work experience opportunities. We’re used to maintaining a strong collaboration with industry, which is what T Levels are all about. Colleges are really focussed on reflecting industry skills needs, so they tend to be very well equipped with specialist rooms and equipment. For example, we deliver T Level Nursing in a simulated hospital ward, complete with animatronic dummy patients so that our learners can build confidence in their practical skills before trying them on real people!
At Capital City College (CCC), we work closely with employers to ensure that our students are well prepared for their chosen industry. Our lecturers are often professionals with industry experience or continued industry practice alongside their teaching. At CCC’s culinary campus in Westminster, the ‘Westminster Diploma’ is widely recognised within the hospitality industry as the benchmark for quality, over and above the actual qualifications that students achieve.
3. The “Vocational” label
Myth-busting: One thing to mention is the ‘vocational’ label. While we do have many directly vocational courses, particularly in construction and trades, a large chunk of the course file sits under the ‘Applied General’ banner and might be better described as an alternative academic route -- for example, Applied Science, Engineering or Health and Social Care, where often students will progress to university degrees. These qualifications frequently include exam units and are supported by teaching that helps students develop academic skills like revision and recall. Colleges also specialise in helping students retake GCSE English and maths, with tailored support to improve literacy and numeracy.
4. A holistic approach
Colleges support the whole student—not just academically, but also with mental health, welfare, financial advice, and careers guidance. Their size allows for dedicated departments and expert staff in each area. They’re inclusive spaces, welcoming learners of all ages and abilities. Students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) receive personalised support. Open days are a great chance to meet the SEND team, who will work with you to assess your needs and ensure the right support is in place from day one.
5. Top tip for enrolment
"My practical advice – go to open days and enrol early. At some of our centres at CCC, the courses are full on the first morning of the GCSE results, so get there early!"
6. Colleges are just for young people, right?
It’s a myth that colleges are only for young people. Many adults study at FE colleges, whether through Access to Higher Education courses, upskilling programmes, or industry-specific qualifications. CCC’s Skills Academies have trained thousands of adults in areas like digital skills, hospitality, and green technology. These short, employer-designed courses help adults gain the skills they need to enter or progress in the workforce.
7. College life
Most colleges are part of large groups that ensure high standards are maintained but they are also large individual campuses with much larger numbers of 16–18-year-olds than you would find in a school sixth form. This is a great opportunity to find your people and get involved in new activities, whether that’s sports teams, music or politics. Colleges are a hive of activity - with employer events, local borough partnerships and community organisations providing lots of opportunity to get involved in events and to build your network. FE colleges also have active Student Unions. Students help shape the college’s direction and organise events and campaigns, gaining valuable leadership experience and enriching the wider student community.
Written by
Toby Clark, Deputy Principal, Learner Experience, Capital City College Group