Preparing your child for college
Preparing your child for the move from school into further education is an important milestone, and having the right support in place can make all the difference. At Warrington & Vale Royal College, we understand that every young person’s journey is unique and work hard to ensure every applicant receives the support, advice and guidance they need to feel confident, prepared, and ready to succeed.
Our applicants' journey to college or "transition" is designed to support every applicant to progress smoothly towards becoming a college student. From initial application through to enrolment, we provide clear information, tailored guidance, and opportunities for your child to become familiar with college life. For students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), we offer enhanced, personalised transition support to ensure their individual needs are fully understood and met.
What support is available to help my child transition from school to college?
We begin supporting your child well before they leave school. Our School Engagement Team works closely with local high schools across Warrington, Winsford, Wigan, Runcorn and surrounding areas to provide up-to-date information, advice and guidance about post-16 options.
Once your child applies, they will be fully supported through our transition programme by our Admissions, Transition and Support Teams. This can include personalised activities such as 1:1 campus tours and opportunities to meet our Learning Support and Wellbeing Teams, helping your child feel comfortable and confident about their next step.
Will my child have the opportunity to visit the college before starting?
Yes, absolutely. We strongly encourage all prospective students and their families to attend our Open Evenings in the autumn term. These events give your child the chance to explore our campuses, meet expert tutors, and get a real feel for college life.
Following this, applicants are invited to exclusive events in the spring and summer terms, where they can try out their chosen course and meet future classmates. We also offer campus tours throughout the year, both in groups and on a 1:1 basis.
How will the college get to know my child’s individual needs?
When your child applies, ideally before Christmas, any declared support needs are shared with our Transition and Learning Support Teams. This allows us to put the right support in place early and ensure your child feels confident throughout the transition process.
For applicants with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), we provide a more personalised approach. Our staff can attend Year 11 annual reviews and work with you and your child to create a tailored transition plan. This is why applying early is especially important for students with EHCPs.
What additional support is available for students with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND)?
We are committed to making our transition process and college experience as inclusive as possible. We encourage applicants and parents/carers to communicate with us so we can make events accessible and enjoyable for your child.
Once an applicant becomes a student, support at college may include exam access arrangements, in-class support, help during breaks and lunchtimes, meet and greet assistance, mobility support, adapted learning materials, and access to specialist resources such as assistive software, reader pens and dictaphones.
How are Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) supported at college?
Applicants with EHCPs receive tailored, individualised support from the very beginning of their transition journey. We work closely with schools, parents and external professionals to understand your child’s needs and ensure appropriate provision is in place.
Our aim is to create a smooth, well-planned transition so your child feels confident, supported and ready to succeed in their new environment.
Who can I contact if I have concerns about my child’s transition?
If you have any questions or concerns at any stage, our Admissions Team is here to help. You can contact them directly at admissions@wvr.ac.uk, and they will be happy to provide guidance and reassurance.
What happens if my child feels anxious about starting college?
It’s completely normal for young people to feel nervous about such a big change. We understand this and are here to help.
We encourage all applicants to attend key transition events such as the College Experience Evening and New Student Welcome Day. These provide a friendly and supportive introduction to college, helping your child feel more settled before they begin.
How will the college keep parents and carers informed throughout the transition process?
We see parents and carers as an important part of the journey. You will receive key updates and information via email, text and post throughout your child’s transition. You are also welcome to attend transition events and take part in parent-focused sessions held during the year.
To stay up to date with the latest news and events, we also encourage parents and carers to follow the college on social media - @wvrcollege.
Campus Tours
Throughout the spring and summer terms, our campus tours give young people the chance to explore college life and become familiar with the campus, particularly if they missed an Open Evening or would like another visit. Led by our School Engagement and Transition Teams, we offer both general group tours and smaller SEN tours for students with additional needs or those feeling anxious about the move to college. These supportive, informative tours cover the full campus and are designed to reassure students, build confidence, and help them feel comfortable, with specialist staff available to support students and parents throughout.
Book your place on an upcoming campus tour here