Interview Process

Applying to college can be a daunting process, especially if you are still unsure of what you want to do next. On this page, you can find answers to common concerns and provide reassurance about our interview process, ensuring it is a positive experience focused on finding the best course or study pathway for you.

Is the interview a pass or fail assessment?

Absolutely not! The interview is not a test with a pass-or-fail outcome. It’s an opportunity for us to have a friendly chat about the course you have applied to. We want to ensure it is the best fit for you and explore if there might be a better course or pathway available at one of our colleges.

What is the purpose of the interview?

The main purpose of the interview is to make sure you have chosen the right course for your interests and career goals. We want to help you find the best fit for your skills and aspirations.

When will my interview be?

Once you apply, you will be invited to book an interview through the MyCollege account. Look out for the emails and SMS messages to the contact details you provided when you applied, as you should receive a reminder about your interview.

I have also applied for another course, will the interview be held at the same time?

If you have applied for another course at the college, you will need to book a separate interview for that course.

I did not attend my interview, can I book another one?

You will automatically receive another email with the option to re-book a second interview. Please make sure to log in to MyCol l ege account.

I have additional learning needs – will these be discussed during the interview?

If you have a particular learning need you will be invited to a separate face-to-face interview where you can talk to the Additional Learning Support (ALS) team. We want to do everything we can to support your studies at the college and we will need to know what your needs are to help you. If you indicated in your application that you have a significant support need you will be interviewed by a specialist from our Inclusive Learning team.

Can a parent/guardian sit in on the interview with me?

Parents/guardians are welcome to accompany you to the college, however, the one-to-one interview should be for the applicant and teacher only (unless there is a special consideration). Where there are group presentations Parents/Guardians are welcome to attend.

Will I be asked about my school record?

No, the interview will focus on your interests in your chosen subject(s) and career destination.

Will I be asked difficult questions about the subject(s) I have chosen?

No, the purpose of the one-to-one interview with a teacher is to explore your subject choices and ensure these are right for you. We will be asking you why you have chosen these subject(s) and discuss your future career plans – university, apprenticeship or employment. Additionally, at enrolment in August, you will have another detailed discussion about your choices and your intended career pathway. In this way, we ensure you have made the right choice.

What if I’ve chosen the wrong course?

That’s completely okay! The interview is the perfect chance to reassess your choice. We offer various courses with different focuses and at different levels, so if you feel another course might be a better fit for you, we can explore those options together.

Can I discuss my career goals during the interview?

Absolutely! Your career aspirations are crucial in determining if the course you have applied to is the right course for you. We encourage you to share your goals with us so we can guide you towards the most suitable pathway to achieve them.

What if I’m unsure about my academic level or the course level I’ve applied for?

Don’t worry at all! We’re here to help you navigate through these decisions. If you’re unsure about whether the course level matches your knowledge and skills, we can discuss alternative options to ensure you’re on the right track.

How should I prepare for the interview?

There’s no need to stress about preparation! Just come as you are, ready to have a friendly conversation about your interests, goals, achievements so far, and the course you’ve applied for. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Will the interview affect my chances of being accepted onto the course?

The interview is not used as a determining factor for acceptance into the course. Its primary purpose is to assist both you and us in ensuring the chosen course aligns with your interests and goals. Rest assured, we’re here to support you throughout the process.

What should I expect during the interview?

During the interview, you can expect a relaxed and friendly conversation with one of our staff members. We’ll discuss your interests, career goals, and the course you’ve applied for. Feel free to ask any questions you have about the course or the college experience.

How long does the interview usually last?

Interviews typically last around 15 to 20 minutes.

Can I bring anything to the interview?

You’re welcome to bring any relevant documents or questions you have about the course or college life. However, there’s no pressure to bring anything specific – just yourself and your enthusiasm to learn!

Do I need to wear a suit? What is the dress code?

No, there’s no need to wear a suit. We want you to feel comfortable and relaxed, so dress in a way that makes you feel confident and ready to engage in a friendly conversation about your interests and goals.

What happens after the interview?

After the interview, we will send you an offer email. You may receive a conditional offer, details of what the conditions of the offer are will be explained in the email. This could be you need to achieve certain grades in your GCSE exams, or some other condition. If you receive an unconditional offer, this indicates you’ve already met the required entry criteria.

To secure your place, simply follow the instructions provided in the offer letter to accept the offer.

We look forward to welcoming you when you begin the next phase of your education in September!