Frequently Asked Questions
For the Vocational Opportunities Programme only.
If you have any questions about Forest College please contact caroline.bs@reaseheath.ac.uk | 01270 613160.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING OUR VOCATIONAL OFFER FOR ELECTIVE HOME EDUCATED STUDENTS FROM SEPTEMBER 2026
Reaseheath College remains committed to delivering high-quality technical education across the land-based and related sectors. Our 14-16 curriculum provision will continue for the 2026/27 academic year, starting in September 2026. However, access to this provision must now be arranged via applications from local schools, submitted on behalf of their pupils.
It is evident that government policy is increasingly focused on encouraging the reintegration of home educated young people into mainstream education. In response to this national direction, Reaseheath College has made the strategic decision to revise the Elective Home Education (EHE) component of our 14-16 programme to better align with this broader educational shift.
As a result, Electively Home Educated students are no longer able to apply directly for courses at Reaseheath College. The only route to enrolment is via a school that commissions the course as part of an alternative provision arrangement.
There is an open dialogue with the Department for Education and Local Authorities and we will take guidance as to how this may develop in future.
This change does not affect students who are already enrolled at Reaseheath College through school partnerships.
If you are considering enrolling your child in a local school or require support with continuing home education, please contact your local authority’s Elective Home Education team. They can advise on school places available for a September 2026 start. Schools may agree to continue a student’s vocational course at Reaseheath as part of their provision—this would need to be discussed directly with the school.
For details about the 14-16 curriculum, please email us at fe-applications@reaseheath.ac.uk
What courses are available?
Courses run across several curriculum areas. Agricultural Engineering, Animal Care, Business, Construction, Equine, Food, Land & Environment and Motor Vehicle.
Do the courses run every year?
No. Courses will only run if enough students have applied to make a course viable to staff.
What is the academic level of these courses?
All curriculum areas run Level 1 courses therefore students must be working at Entry Level 3 Maths and English Level (approximate functional skills level).
Are the courses full time?
No, students attend one day a week, term-time only. Wednesday in Year 10 and Thursday in Year 11.
Do the students sit exams?
Yes. Some courses have externally set exams. All courses have practical and written assessments.
Can a student join in year 11?
If a student is to achieve a qualification, they should be registered at Reaseheath for the full 2 years from the beginning of year 10.
What are the timings of the day?
The day starts at 9.30am and finishes in time for a 2.30pm departure.
Is learning support available?
Schools send learning support as needed for practical and theory sessions.
Does the college provide transport?
Schools usually provide their own transport transport. Full-time Reaseheath students have priority for places on college transport and permissions are needed for under 16’s to use the college buses.
What equipment is needed?
This will depend on the course and details will be provided before September. Basic clothing will be overalls and steel toe capped boots where appropriate.
Who is the contact at Reaseheath for these courses?
Susan Gilding – susang@reaseheath.ac.uk, 01270 613194.
