
South Thames Colleges Group gives students greater choices across south west London, find out here about the history, structure and governance of the group.
We believe that the partnership between College and parents/carers is crucial to student success, and we are committed to ensuring that we do everything we can to maintain a successful and productive relationship between home and College. In this section you will find dedicated parent/carer resources, how to access student progress reviews/attendance and details on where to find support. We hope you find this useful, if you would like clarification on any issues which are not covered here, please do not hesitate to contact us, either by telephone or email.
Our policies and procedures are reviewed on a regular basis by the relevant South Thames Colleges Group Management Team, Governors or members of the Student Council. In implementing our policies, we always apply tests of equity, reasonableness and proportionality. We welcome feedback on all our policies and their implementation in order to improve our operations, so please make any comments or ask any question to support this process.
Our refunds policy is found on our fees information page. For policies regarding the Governors and Corporation, see our corporation policies.
South Thames Colleges Group (STCG) is one of London’s largest providers of post-16 education and training and is an ongoing and significant contributor to its local communities. STCG was created by a merger in 2017 and operates from four main College campuses located at Carshalton, Kingston, Merton and Wandsworth spread across four London Boroughs. STCG has established itself as one of the top Colleges in London having made impressive progress since its creation, and the Corporation is keen that the College will continue making this progress.
The Corporation (Governing Body) is an independent institution set up under the Further and Higher Education Act 1992. On 1st August 2017, the Corporations of Carshalton College and South Thames College merged with Kingston College – the Corporations of the two colleges were dissolved and all students, employees, assets and liabilities were transferred to Kingston College. Kingston College’s name was changed to South Thames Colleges Group to reflect its regional position.
The Corporation operates as a non-executive Board and has specific responsibilities for overseeing the strategic direction of the College, its academic performance and financial health. Governors help to drive up the performance of the College by attending regular meetings and participating in active scrutiny and questioning of management. The Corporation shapes the strategic direction of STCG whilst ensuring that its educational provision meets the needs of the students and the wider community.
The Corporation is made up of individuals who are committed to education and training and volunteer their time and act in the best interests of the College and its learners. There are up to 22 Governors with a range of backgrounds, skills and experience reflecting the varied communities which the College serves including students, staff, the Group Principal / CEO and representatives of the local community, businesses and education institutions.
Governors maintain contact with College life through staff-governor links, formal presentations, and attendance at College events. Governors have a strong commitment to continuous improvement in their own practice and the Corporation undertakes a programme of rigorous self-assessment both of the College’s and its own performance.
Current governor vacancies and details of how to apply to become a governor are posted on the this website/Current jobs or are available from the Head of Governance. Any comments, questions or enquiries in relation to governance of the South Thames Colleges Group should be directed to:
Helen Meredith
Head of Governance
Kingston College
Kingston Hall Road
Kingston upon Thames
KT1 2AQ
Email: Helen.Meredith@stcg.ac.uk
The creative industries are the most exciting, dynamic, diverse and fastest growing areas in the UK, great news if you are thinking of Art & Design as your future career.
Our talented students exhibit a range of their work at an End of Year Show. Family, friends and the community are invited to celebrate the incredible work of emerging talents venturing out into the world as artists, designers, photographers, animators, digital artists, fashion designers, graphic designers and media creatives.
Our students work in the College’s purpose-built Creative Industries area, which incorporates art and design studios, printmaking, pottery, multimedia suites and green room.
If you know as much about contouring as the Kardashians, have an eye for the latest trends, want to make a difference to someone’s day or boost someone’s self-confidence, then the beauty industry is calling you!
Once qualified as a Beauty Therapist the career opportunities are endless: you could work in a spa or salon, on a cruise ship, in the fashion and movie industry, or start your own home or mobile business with working hours to suit you.
At Carshalton College, Beauty Therapy courses are taught in our on-site salon by tutors who have the professional industry experience to make you confident, qualified and job ready.
Working with children is definitely rewarding and more than ‘just a job’. Most children and young people have a natural curiosity, a sense of wonder and enthusiasm for play and learning, which has a positive effect on all those who work with them. Equally, they need to be encouraged and supported by people who bring the same enthusiasm to these experiences as they have. In addition, early years practitioners need to have good interpersonal skills, such as patience, a friendly manner, and the ability to communicate with children, young people, colleagues and other adults such as parents and carers.
See our course options below or contact us for more information.
Whether you want to travel the world, start your own business or help to build an iconic landmark; this and more is possible with a career in Construction.
When you start work in construction, we make sure you hit the ground running. Not only will you have all the skills employers want, you will also have experience of working with the latest industry equipment.
The TEC Centre consolidates the construction, engineering and motor vehicle curriculum areas into one single central location for over 900 students. This striking modern building provides state of the art workshops to deliver the bricklaying, carpentry, electrical, motor vehicle, plastering and plumbing lessons.
Working in the Electrical profession is an increasingly popular choice, particularly as a thriving construction industry will always need qualified electricians as an essential part of the building team. The scope for electricians is much wider than the building trade; you could work at one of the country’s major airports, in the military, or across the rail network - the possibilities are endless. At this stage, you don’t even need to decide what sort of electrician you would like to be.
Our courses are designed to gradually build your skills in electrical trading, safety and industry standards, increasing your confidence and employability along the way. Practical assessments and relevant employment and work experience mean you leave our courses skilled, trained and ready to go!
ESOL courses can help you if English is your second language and you are living or planning to settle in the UK.
At Carshalton College ESOL is offered at Entry Levels 1, 2 and 3 and Level 1.
Whether you want your film to be shown at the Sundance Festival or want your news stories popping up on social feeds around the world, our courses lay the foundations, making your dreams a reality.
Our range of facilities include a multifunctional studio space for projects such as, commercials, film and television productions, photoshoots, green screen and multi-camera projects.
Students can access specialist Mac suites, industry software 3D printers, VR technology, 3D scanners, HD cameras, a 4K Black Magic, Steadicam, tripods, on-board monitors, graphic tablets, lenses and ADRs. You will be taught by film / TV specialists /industry practitioners who use their breadth of knowledge to support your studies.
Join us at our open event if you are looking to enrol on a Foundation Learning/SEND course this September 2025
Carshalton College continues to be committed to providing training and work experience opportunities for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. The focus of our study programmes is to embed independence and employability skills to enable our learners to secure positive and meaningful progression, be that into independent living, or into the workplace through vocational study within other specialist areas across the College. Aspirations for ultimate workplace progression include both voluntary and paid employment. The provision at Carshalton College includes a shop run by our students and weekly attendance at an external allotment.
If you would like to develop your communication skills, grow in confidence and further your career goals, why not take advantage of our fully funded programmes (subject to eligibility).
These courses are designed to be flexible to suit working and or childcare arrangements. They can be delivered partly online and on site depending on your needs.
In the UK there is a shortage of trained plumbers so you will always be in demand in this lucrative and varied career. Plumbers work in all kinds of industries. You could find a job designing plumbing systems for new buildings, deciding how to manage, repair, and expand city/municipal water systems, or developing new plumbing technologies Owning your own plumbing business means you can work when you want and where you want, which is great for those who have family obligations or need flexibility in scheduling or location. Where there’s water and people, there’s a need for plumbing. The opportunities are almost endless!
If you are not at college or finding it hard to get a job, the King's Trust Programme is the course for you. It’s FREE, lasts 12 weeks, is just for 16-25 year olds and is focused solely around YOU. You'll get work experience, meet new people, learn practical skills and finish with a nationally-recognised qualification.
This life-changing course will build your confidence, your skills and help you find your direction so you can progress onto work, training or education. The course is free and you can still claim benefits and JSA when you're on the programme.
Some of the young people on our course have even won national awards for their commitment and contribution during the course.
Read Dylan's story who helps run the programme. Further news links below:
Dame Joanna Lumley visits Carshalton College
Spotlight on Paige Smith, Team Leader
One Million Stories Shape The Prince's Trust
The History of The Prince's Trust
Whether you have a passion for football or love to keep fit in the gym, we will support you as you turn your interest in sport into a career.
Our range of courses will help you develop your understanding of sport and sport science. Alongside the practical work you will also study anatomy and physiology, coaching skills and how exercise affects the body.
As a student on our Sports courses, you will get to use the Pulse Fitness Centre and take part in external activities, such as: Kayaking and sailing courses, climbing courses, trips to Devon and volunteering at the London Youth Games and High Ashurst.
This course provides the skills to become a qualified gym instructor and manage a fitness business, combining theory and practical experience.
The Gas Training and Assessment Centre is a leading provider of Gas, Plumbing and Heating training to industry professionals.
The Centre has dedicated state-of-the-art training and assessment facilities. All courses are tailored to the needs of adult learners with scheduling at regular and convenient times to suit the specific requirements of employers in the Building Services Engineering sector.
Fully accredited, industry recognised qualifications are delivered by specialist trainers and assessors with over 40 years’ experience and knowledge in the sector.
See our list of courses below. We can offer flexible start dates on most of our courses so please contact our Admissions Team who will advise dates to suit your schedule.
Call 020 8544 4574 or email: gasandpowerassessment@stcg.ac.uk
This course provides the skills to become a qualified gym instructor and manage a fitness business, combining theory and practical experience.
We offer a wide range of Access to Higher Education Diplomas designed to fit around your lifestyle. The Diploma is a one year long course designed for adults aged 19+ who wish to return to education, retrain or progress to undergraduate study.
Access courses are one year, full or part time and are nationally recognised Level 3 qualifications, validated by OCN (Open College Network). Applicants may be required to sit separate GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics alongside their course if they do not already have these qualifications at grade C/4 or above.
Upon successful completion you can apply to undergraduate courses offered by universities and colleges including the South Thames Colleges Group. There are many reasons to continue your studies with us, notably our undergraduate courses offer lower tuition fees providing excellent value and our class sizes are smaller.
You may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan to help pay tuition fees which is then written off if you go on to complete a degree course. You may also be entitled to study this course for free if you are:
Hear from some Access to Art & Design and Foundation Diploma Art & Design students
The creative industries are the most exciting, dynamic, diverse and fastest-growing areas in the UK, which is great news if you are thinking of this as your future career.
Students work in our dedicated Creative Industries Centre and our talented students exhibit a range of their work at our end-of-year Summer Shows. Our short Summer Shows video encapsulates the talent, vibrancy and range of courses we offer!
Our exciting Creative Industries Centre offers purposeful art studios, workshops, digital suites, TV and photography studios, music studios, rehearsal rooms and classrooms to enhance and support your learning experience. The on-site Penny School Gallery offers a space for exhibitions and performances enabling student work to be showcased throughout the year.
For regular updates follow us on Instagram! Creative Industries | 3D Design | Music | Photography | Graphic Design | Digital Design | Tattoo Illustration
In a series of videos following an exhibition, BTEC Photography students explain the concept of their project, what inspired them, the techniques they used, including acrylic transfers, screen printing and liquid emulsion, how to effectively display their work, and what they've learned on the course so far. Take a look here.
Our courses are designed to equip you with the skills needed to not only succeed but flourish in the fast-paced business world. Whether you see yourself running your own marketing or events company or rising up the ranks in the City, there are a number of core areas you need to cover to help you achieve those goals. So alongside developing your understanding of the world of business our courses also cover effective people management, business planning and career development.
The Esports industry has experienced unprecedented growth, transforming competitive gaming into a widely recognised sport, and which has an anticipated global market value of $2.4 billion in 2024. Professional teams usually have coaches, analysts and managers who help to get the most out of the players and organise strategies, with some of the biggest tournaments offering millions of pounds in prizes.
All of our tutors have a wealth of knowledge. They will support you in your studies, sharing their real-world experience and you will also take part in a number of work experience opportunities.
Our Beauty Therapy courses are taught by tutors who have the professional industry experience to make you confident, qualified and job ready. We offer a range of full time and part time courses in the beauty therapy and complementary therapy sectors, alongside our popular range of evening and weekend workshops designed to introduce you to new skills or to develop and expand the skillset of existing professionals in this field.
Attached to our Beauty Therapy Training School is the Headmasters Hairdressing Salon. Hairdressing treatments range from a simple cut and finish to tinting, highlighting and perming. Our barbering section offers men’s cuts and beard trimming.
Both salons are open to the public and offer a variety of hair and beauty treatments at competitive rates. This provides you with invaluable experience in preparation for the workplace.
For regular updates follow us on Instagram!
kingstoncollegebeauty
An extensive range of qualifications is offered at Kingston College to people considering a career working with children and young people. You will develop a knowledge and awareness of the types of provision in the Children’s and Young People’s sectors. This includes the roles played by workers – from principles and values through to health and safety, understanding specialist provision, inclusion and working with others. Past students have progressed on to higher education at degree level, and the flexibility of these courses means that you may progress your study alongside working in the sector.
Students benefit from learning in a nursery setting in our Little Plumbs Nursery, a large, colourful room divided into carefully planned interest areas. Our calming and therapeutic Sensory Room offers a unique way to explore the five senses with lights, colours, sounds and sensory soft play resources.
Information and Communication Technology is the ever-developing computer-based technology that is opening up communications and the exchange of information on a global scale. ICT has found its way into all aspects of life, from entertainment to most areas of work. You will be given the opportunity to find out about hardware, software and their applications, programming and networking and all the tools you need to make a decision about your future career options including graphics, animation, games programming, databases, website development and many more.
Counselling is the skilled and principled use of a collaborative relationship using a variety of counselling models and interventions. Counselling is a healing and organic process that occurs when a counsellor and client come together to bring about change and to develop a therapeutic relationship. The counselling relationship can be a place for clients to recognise how they are feeling and explore any past, present and possibly future issues/life events that they may have.
Working in the Electrical profession is an increasingly popular choice, particularly as a thriving construction industry will always need qualified electricians as an essential part of the building team. The scope for electricians is much wider than the building trade; you could work at one of the country's major airports, in the military, across the rail network - the possibilities are endless. At this stage, you don't even need to decide what sort of electrician you would like to be.
Our courses are designed to gradually build your skills in electrical trading, safety and industry standards, increasing your confidence and employability along the way. Practical assessments and relevant employment and work experience mean you leave our courses skilled, trained and ready to go!
In the UK the engineering industry is vast, with more than 6,000 organisations employing around 800,000 engineers. Career opportunities exist across a broad spectrum of sectors, from manufacturing and defence to renewable energy and transportation. Our courses include the study of the principles and practices of mechanical engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, operations and maintenance engineering, aeronautical engineering and robotics.
Our students participate in National Science and Engineering Week, and the Engineering Section has strong links with large UK engineering companies such as British Airways Operations, Lufthansa, Heathrow Airport Ltd, Southwest Trains, GlaxoSmithKline, Network Rail and Imperial College. Our students maintain a high level of personal discipline and have the opportunity to mature into young people developing a level of integrity and team ethic as demanded by the industry.
We offer a wide range of full-time vocational engineering programmes from Level 2 to Higher Education, together with a large Apprenticeship provision for many employers.
English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes are run at a variety of different levels, from Elementary to Advanced or Proficiency. All courses cover grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation and give students the necessary speaking and listening skills practice to enable them to progress to the next level.
We also offer English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) for 16-18 and 19+ students. The ESOL Skills for Life programme is for people who wish to make their home in this country - for example, settled immigrant communities, refugees, asylum seekers and migrant workers.
A career in fashion is exciting, competitive and fast-paced. The career paths available can vary greatly and often intersect with other industries. Some fashion professionals are focused on the design, creation and styling of garments, while others work within the commercial end of the industry in sales or fashion merchandising roles. There is also a demand for fashion reporting, PR, photography and marketing.
Our Fashion students work in a fully equipped printed textile studio with industrial knitting machines in an environment that encourages an industrious and professional work ethic. Students also benefit from spacious pattern cutting and garment construction studios.
Students work in our dedicated state-of-the-art Creative Industries Centre and our talented students exhibit a range of their work at our end of year Summer Shows. Our short Summer Shows video encapsulates the talent, vibrancy and range of courses we offer!
If you are passionate about nutrition, exercise and helping others, Fitness & Coaching could be a great option for you. Health and Fitness coaches do everything from helping people fix their eating habits and get in shape, to training athletes and helping people recover from injuries. It is a rewarding and flexible career where you could work in a variety of places, including schools, health centres, private health clubs and sports clubs.
Your role could involve designing training programmes, developing teamwork skills, helping to improve technique, helping in competitions, giving feedback on performance and keeping performance records. At a higher level you may work alongside other experts such as sports scientists, nutritionists, physiotherapists and programme managers.
Students studying on one of these 3 courses also have the opportunity to join our very successful Men's Football Academy:
For further information on our Men's Football Academy email Charlie Croydon.
We encourage our students to dream big and our Media courses lay the foundations, helping make dreams a reality. Focus is on moving images including television, film and video, radio and web-based technologies and new media as well as learning the fundamentals of PR, marketing and communications.
Our multi-purpose television studio provides students with the ability to produce HD live broadcast and streaming television for a range of formats including multi-camera magazine shows, green screen shoots, interviews, commercials, film sets, drama and audience-based talk shows. Our fully integrated post-production hub comes complete with sound booth, editing facilities and motion graphics, catering for all aspects of the production process.
A strong portfolio and work experience are essential to getting ahead in the media industry, so we will support you to build up a bank of your work and help organise relevant work placements.
Students work in our dedicated Creative Industries Centre and our talented students exhibit a range of their work at our end of year Summer Shows. Our short Summer Shows video encapsulates the talent, vibrancy and range of courses we offer!
Do you want to be a paramedic? Become a counsellor? Work as a nurse? As some of the most important jobs in society, a career in Health and Social Care will reward and challenge you.
There are 1.48 million health and social care professionals in the UK, working in many different settings. Our courses are designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to care for others in a broad range of health or social care settings. You may decide to take on a role with the elderly, children or young people, terminally ill clients, individuals with mental health problems, people with learning difficulties or people with dementia. Some people prefer to visit clients at home whilst others enjoy being part of a large team in a care facility.
Our brand new, modern Health & Social Care Hub provides students with the opportunity to practice in simulated hospital wards and home environments, honing their practical skills in the care sector. This new facility includes a Virtual Reality teaching space with state-of-the-art Metaverse technology, making learning enjoyable and interactive.
Headmasters Academy is a professionally-equipped teaching salon where students, supervised by highly-qualified lecturers and assessors, welcome members of the public as well as staff and students. Hairdressing treatments range from a simple cut and finish to tinting, highlighting and perming. Our barbering section offers men’s cuts and beard trimming.
Our courses are taught by tutors who have the professional industry experience to make you confident, qualified and job ready. We also offer a range of part-time courses designed to introduce you to new skills or to develop and expand the skillset of existing professionals in this field.
Attached to the Headmasters Academy is our Beauty and Complementary Therapy Training School. Our beauticians provide a full range of services: waxing, facials, manicure, pedicure, specialist treatments such as Faradic treatment, as well as full body massage and Indian head massage.
Both salons are open to the public and offer a variety of hairdressing, barbering, beauty and complementary therapy treatments at competitive rates. This provides you with invaluable experience in preparation for the workplace.
For regular updates follow us on Instagram! kingstoncollege.hair.barbering and kingstoncollegebeauty
An alternative route to University or Higher Education for students aged 19+ who have been out of education for at least a year, the Access to Higher Education Diploma - Humanities & Social Sciences is designed to give adult students, who may have left school early or have been out of education for a number of years, the opportunity to develop academic skills, confidence and knowledge before applying to university. This course requires a minimum of 90% attendance and the successful completion of 45 Level 3 credits and 15 Level 3 credits. The Access to HE Diplomas at Kingston College are nationally recognised qualifications and are awarded by The Open College Network London Region (OCNLR).
The A Level+ Law and Humanities pathway for 16-19 year olds investigates how the ways of living have developed from generation to generation, including customs, practices, places and values. As part of this qualification you will study BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Law, BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology and one A Level (you can choose from Sociology or English Language & Literature). These subjects allow you to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to evaluate, consider and debate about issues.
The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) is the professional association for 20,000 Chartered Legal Executive lawyers, paralegals and other legal practitioners in England and Wales.
Increasingly on a level playing field with solicitors, Chartered Legal Executive lawyers can now become judges, coroners, advocates and partners in law firms. CILEx offers unparalleled access to a flexible career in the legal profession, in corporate in-house legal departments, or in local or national government. Our courses comprise the Level 3 Paralegal Apprenticeship, the Level 3 qualification, set and assessed at A Level standard, and our Level 6 qualification, which is set and assessed at Honours Degree level.
Fancy a job at Spotify or Soundcloud? Have aspirations to be a rock star or the next Calvin Harris? Our dedicated professional music lecturers offer industry-level training in a wide range of practical and theoretical areas to ensure you are well prepared for progression into employment in the music industry, other related areas or on to undergraduate study either in performance or music technology.
You will work in our BigHead Studios, our industry-standard, fully integrated recording and rehearsal complex. BigHead comprises two professional recording studios, four production studios and four projects live rooms/rehearsal studios - all with the latest digital and analogue technology. All spaces are audio-linked and fully configurable to provide students with maximum flexibility in recording sessions.
Throughout the year there are numerous opportunities to perform at live events, to collaborate, create and record in professional studios.
Our short Summer Shows video encapsulates the talent, vibrancy and range of courses we offer!
For regular updates follow us on Instagram!
kingston.college_music | kingston.college_creatives
The uniformed, public/protective services play a vital role in the welfare and safety of people at home and abroad, on the front line and behind the scenes. Our Protective Services courses are designed to equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills needed in your chosen career and will develop your confidence, initiative, independence, fitness and your approach to challenges. Career paths may include the Police Force, Ambulance Service, Armed Services, Air Force, Fire Service, Prison Service and Security.
A career in policing can open a world of opportunities. The opportunity for you to make a real difference in the communities you serve, the opportunity for you to meet exciting and varied daily challenges, and the opportunity for you to progress through the huge range of career pathways available in the service.
We offer a wide range of Performing and Production Arts courses from Level 2 through to Level 4. Our highly vocational courses cover all aspects of practical skill training and development, creative practice, live performance opportunities and production management building a strong foundation and industry awareness to pursue a successful career within these professions.
Many of our Professional and Personal skills courses give you the opportunity to take part in national competitions and work placements to put your studies into a real-world context and make your cv stand out. You'll learn from expert speakers and gain insight into what employers are looking for through work with top companies across different sectors. If you're looking to start your own business or boost your career, then take a look at our adult short courses to see how we can help you fill the gaps in your cv and strengthen your skillset. We offer courses from creating your own brand identity and business plan to public speaking and presentation skills.
Studying the sciences develops your problem-solving skills and trains your brain on how to be logical and to think clearly - as well as making exciting discoveries and helping solve huge global problems!
Because scientific progress is crucial to our future, scientists are extremely employable. You can look forward to a range of careers and study pathways, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Dietetics, Physiotherapy, Nutrition, Pharmaceutical and Forensic Science, Biochemistry and Radiography.
Alternatively, with a background in the study of science, you might pursue a career in industrial manufacturing, a hospital laboratory, environmental science or work in schools, colleges and universities.
Our range of courses will help you develop your understanding of sport and sport science. Alongside practical work you will also study anatomy and physiology, coaching skills and how exercise affects the body.
The study of sport and its various pathways, including sports science and sports analysis and coaching, provides you with knowledge directly related to the changing needs of employers in specific areas of the sport and recreation industry. Study may lead to career paths such as Recreation Assistant, Gym Instructor or Community Sport Coach or you may continue on one of our undergraduate courses which will qualify you for careers in Sports Science, Sports Therapy or Sports Management as well as many other roles in the leisure and fitness industry.
Students studying on one of these 3 courses also have the opportunity to join our very successful Men's Football Academy:
For further information on our Men's Football Academy email Charlie Croydon.
The travel industry is dynamic, varied and thriving. British holidaymakers are becoming more adventurous and more discerning when choosing their holidays with experiential travel, adventure tourism, learning a new skill abroad, responsible tourism and accessible travel booming. Wellness holidays, cruises, Staycations and City breaks are increasingly popular, and British tourism is gaining momentum meaning that a wide depth and breadth of knowledge of this vibrant industry is a must.
Students studying Travel and Tourism or Aviation progress to a wide range of employment opportunities both in the UK and abroad, with a number of exciting careers to choose from: Tourist Guide, Tour Manager, Adventure Sports Activity Manager, Travel Consultant, Events and Conference Manager, Air Cabin Crew, Airport Ground Staff or Holiday/Cruise Ship Rep. Recent graduates have progressed to university to study degrees in Air Transport Management, International Tourism Management with Transport, and International Hospitality and Tourism Management.
These qualifications measure the knowledge and skills required to meet the support needs of primary, secondary and special needs schools and will demonstrate an individual's ability relating to pupil welfare, care, behaviour and learning.
You will learn how to communicate effectively with children, young people and adults and gain an understanding of how children and young people develop. You will be aware of what to do in different situations when working within the school environment.
Assessment will be via assignments, case studies, observations of work practices, expert witness testimonies, simulation and professional discussion.
The focus of our study programmes is to embed independence and employability skills to enable our learners to secure positive and meaningful progression, be that into independent living or into the workplace through vocational study within other specialist areas across the College. Aspirations for ultimate workplace progression include both voluntary and paid employment. At Kingston College students have the opportunity to take part in productions twice a year in the College’s professional ACT Theatre. Take a look at their most recent production on YouTube here. Students also run a café in the town centre.
The travel industry is dynamic, varied and booming. British holidaymakers are becoming more adventurous and more discerning when choosing their holidays with experiential travel, adventure tourism, learning a new skill abroad, responsible tourism and accessible travel booming. Wellness holidays, cruises, Staycations and City breaks are increasingly popular, and Business tourism is gaining momentum meaning that a wide depth and breadth of knowledge of this vibrant industry is a must.
Our courses lead to a wide range of employment opportunities both in the UK and abroad, with a number of exciting careers to choose from Tourist Guide, Tour Manager, Adventure Sports Activity Manager, Travel Consultant, Events and Conference Manager, Air Cabin Crew, Airport Ground staff or Holiday/Cruise Ship Rep.
The T Level in Finance and Accounting will give you the qualifications and real-world experience you need to get ahead in your career. Equivalent in size to 3 A Levels, a T Level focuses on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study or an Apprenticeship. Each T Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry. Students spend 80% of the time in the classroom and 20% at their work placement.
More information on T Levels can be found here.
The Level 3 Wellbeing qualification is designed to increase learners' knowledge and understanding of Wellbeing including mental health and counselling skills. It is recommended to those learners with a keen academic interest in understanding human psychology, wellbeing, counselling, mental health and the applicability of psycho-social strategies to support wellbeing.
Why the + ? This is because at Kingston College we give you more than the opportunity of studying A Levels – we give you the chance to study a career pathway by combining A Levels with vocational qualifications.
All pathways will allow you to progress to university, an Apprenticeship or employment. The benefit of mixing is that it allows you to study a subject in an in-depth academic way alongside a vocational hands-on subject that sparks your interest, giving you the best of both worlds.
The A Level+ Pathways include:
See links to courses below.
The Motor Vehicle courses delivered at Kingston College are designed for learners who are interested in a career in the Motor industry. Once qualified, the career options are endless. There are hundreds of garages, dealerships and maintenance depots in the area that need trained mechanics. You could run your own business, manage a garage or even specialise in modifying vehicles. If you are dreaming big, some of the top mechanics in Formula One are from the UK, so if you have ambitions of working in the fast lane, a good grounding will help you get there
Digital Art, Animation and Games Design is an important industry and Britain’s creative talent pool is growing to compete on a global scale. It is important that education in this country responds by producing young people with creative and technical skills to build the competitive interactive visual experiences demanded by the industry.
FACILITIES
Students study in the specialist digital suites and art studios at our dedicated Creative Industries Centre.
CREATIVE INDUSTRIES SUMMER SHOWS
Each summer, family and friends are invited to celebrate the incredible work of our talented Creative Industries students at our End of Year Summer Shows. Visitors enjoy an eclectic mix of live music, exhibitions and performances showcasing the exciting work from a range of emerging talents. Our short Summer Shows video encapsulates the talent, vibrancy and range of courses we offer!
For regular updates follow us on Instagram!
kingston.college_digitaldesign | Creative Industries
Want a career in one of the UK’s fastest growing industries? Digital marketing channels have revolutionised business operations. The Creator Economy has emerged as a leading marketing and business frontrunner. The continual growth and increase of online Social Media and digital platforms demonstrates the Creator Economy is not only a legitimate career path, but a force to be reckoned with.
With growth in popularity and accessibility, Digital Content Creators can count on income generated from their online content. Marketing from sponsored posts, ads and brand deals is just a fraction of the existing monetization opportunities through social media and digital platforms. If Digital Content Creation for Social Media is your passion, this is the course for you.
T Levels are a qualification after GCSEs that will take your future to the next level. Kingston College delivers a number of T Levels for study this September which can be applied for today!
Equivalent to 3 A Levels
T Levels are an alternative to A levels, Apprenticeships and other 16 to 19 vocational courses. Equivalent in size to 3 A Levels, a T Level focuses on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study or an Apprenticeship.
A 45-Day Industry Placement
Each T Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry.
80% Classroom, 20% Work
T Level students spend 80% of the course in their learning environment, gaining the skills that employers need. The other 20% is a meaningful industry placement, where they put these skills into action.
Find out more by watching this T Level Information video.
Are you interested in a sustainable future and embarking on a career to help the planet?
Whether you already have some experience in the green industry or are starting from fresh we have courses for you to excel in your Career and make a difference to the world we live in.
As green jobs are forecast to vastly increase in the coming years this is a great time to train for a career in Green Skills.
At Kingston College we work to continually foster sustainability across the curriculum and enable learners at all levels to grow as individuals ready for work in a sustainable environment.
At Kingston College you can choose to study a variety of subjects as part of our vocational Mixed Subject Pathways. These Pathways have been built using the extensive skills and experience of our teaching teams, allowing you to study a number of different subjects which will enable you to progress on to a University level qualification or a Career in your field of interest. In addition to your chosen pathway you will also benefit from fantastic work experience and enrichment opportunities.
We offer Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas in Nursing, which are designed to fit around your lifestyle. Access courses are one year, full or part time, for adults aged 19+ who wish to return to education, retrain or progress to undergraduate study. They are nationally recognised Level 3 qualifications, validated by OCN (Open College Network) and can provide a progression route to undergraduate study at college or university. Applicants may be required to sit separate GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics alongside their course if they do not already have these qualifications at grade C/4 or above.
Upon successful completion you can apply to undergraduate courses offered by universities and colleges including the South Thames Colleges Group. There are many reasons to continue your studies with us, notably our undergraduate courses offer lower tuition fees providing excellent value and our class sizes are smaller.
You may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan to help pay tuition fees which is then written off if you go on to complete a degree course. You may also be entitled to study this course for free if you are:
We offer a wide range of adult part-time Art & Design courses. Learners are taught valuable skills in Art & Design that can help inspire their creativity, social interactions and health and wellbeing.
Learn to cook with confidence and get inspired on one of our cake decorating or cookery short courses. Our courses will teach you dishes and techniques you can use professionally or recreate at home to impress friends and family. Learn cake decorating skills such as creating sugar flowers and 3D decorations for a variety of cakes from cupcakes to stacked wedding cakes. In our cookery classes can try your hand at making your own tapas, baking bread and learn to create authentic dishes inspired by different international cuisine.
Our business courses are designed to equip you with the skills needed to succeed and flourish in the fast-paced business world. Alongside developing your understanding of the world of business, our courses will touch on important topics like effective people management, business planning and career development. Our Business tutors have a wealth of knowledge in this sector, so they know what you need to really stand out in the crowded job market. You will be able to take part in a number of work experience opportunities and national competitions to put your studies into a real-world context and make your CV stand out.
Studying and working in childcare is an exciting and rewarding career. Our teachers will share their vocational experiences with you while you learn. We also provide the opportunity for work placements, which are a chance to discover what it's like to work in your chosen area, leaving you confident about launching your career.
IT and Computing specialists are more valuable to employers than ever before. The sector is progressive and constantly changing, promising a wide range of opportunities. Whether you are interested in hardware and software development and their applications, technical support, programming or network administration, our courses will help you define your strengths and provide all the tools you need to make a decision about your future career options. A career in Information Technology regularly offers new opportunities within companies or in related fields.
Our Counselling courses provide adult learners with an introduction to counselling, as well as the opportunity to take a more advanced Level 2 course. They explore what Counselling is and how you might use it professionally or personally. You'll participate in individual and small group exercises and discussions. Study topics include: identifying what counselling is, describing the process of listening, how to use your skills for personal development, and identifying further training opportunities.
Our craft courses will teach you a range of creative skills that you can use to start a small business making and selling your own unique products. These classes are also a great way to improve your dexterity, meet new people and develop a new interest or hobby.
Working in the Electrical profession is an increasingly popular choice. The scope for electricians includes working within the construction industry, at a major airport, in the military or across the rail network. Our courses are designed to gradually build your skills in electrical trading, safety and industry standards, increasing your confidence and employability along the way. Practical assessments and relevant employment and work experience mean you leave our courses skilled, trained and ready to go!
The UK's engineering industry is vast, with more than 6,000 organisations employing around 800,000 engineers. Career opportunities exist across a broad spectrum of sectors, from manufacturing and defence to renewable energy and transportation. Engineers are employed in sectors from transport and construction to food, medicine and even the space industry. As engineering today is linked closely with technology, the demand for qualified engineers is on the rise thanks to the speed technology is advancing. Our students test out the theory in practical sessions at our £12m technology centre. Working in electronics labs, computer aided design suites, workshops and well equipped science labs, they'll access specialist equipment throughout their course.
Our students maintain a high level of personal discipline and have the opportunity to mature into young people developing a level of integrity and team ethic as demanded by the industry. We offer a wide range of full-time vocational engineering programmes, together with a large Apprenticeship provision for many employers.
These courses will teach you the sewing skills you need to make your own clothes to a high standard. Classes focus on threading and using a sewing machine, identifying types of paper patterns and suitable fabric, reading a paper pattern, laying, pinning and cutting out fabric, completing sample seams and hand sewn finishes. The aim is to understand how to make a simple garment and, depending on your ability, you may be able to complete a garment of your own during the course.
Learn to develop your photographic and camera skills and see how Adobe Photoshop (the industry standard digital imaging software) can take your photography further. These courses are aimed at people who wish to develop their hobby or who want to enhance their own photos in Adobe Photoshop to promote their small businesses. Classes are also suitable for those considering a career change. Topics include how to use your digital camera or SLR camera to take well composed and exposed photos, how to use Adobe Photoshop to enhance photos, how to prepare images for prints, desktop publishing, websites and social media.
The focus of our study programmes is to embed independence and employability skills to enable our learners to secure positive and meaningful progression, be that into independent living or into the workplace through vocational study within other specialist areas across the College. Aspirations for ultimate workplace progression include both voluntary and paid employment.
Merton College is the base for South Thames Colleges Group's Aurora provision. This is our specialist, non-residential FE centre for young adults with moderate to severe learning disabilities who may have autism and / or complex support needs.
Do you want to be a paramedic? Become a counsellor? Work as a nurse? As some of the most important jobs in society, a career in Health and Social Care will reward and challenge you.
There are 1.48 million health and social care professionals in the UK, working in many different settings. Our courses are designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to care for others in a broad range of health or social care settings. Many past students have progressed on to university at degree level.
You may decide to take on a role with the elderly, children or young people, terminally ill clients, individuals with mental health problems, people with learning difficulties or people with dementia. Some people prefer to visit clients at home whilst others enjoy being part of a large team in a care facility.
At our Hospitality and Catering Academy you'll learn from the best. Our tutors have years of industry experience and you'll get tips from visiting experts, You'll study in our Academy which is kitted out with everything you need to get ahead - from new professional kitchens, a specialist pastry kitchen to Taste, our commercial restaurant where you'll hone your skills catering to paying customers. To give you the best practical experience we line up work placements with major high-profile restaurants, and enter national competitions. You could be working with professional chefs in the fast-paced environment of top restaurants and major event venues such as Wimbledon and Twickenham Stadium, and winning gold at the World Skills competition.
Taking part in leisure and recreational activities can greatly improve physical health and wellbeing. We offer a range of courses that are designed to help you understand your lifestyle and improve your wellbeing. For example, our Pilates classes involve a series of exercises designed to improve muscle control, flexibility, strength, breathing technique and posture. Do browse the courses available to find one that interests you.
If you've got a passion for music and would like to be able to play your favourite tunes on guitar then our Learn to Play Guitar courses are a great starting point. We also offer Singing for Wellbeing, which is a great class to take.
These courses will provide you with the opportunity to take your guitar practice to the next level or sing for your own wellbeing, while building essential life skills, such as confidence, communication and friendship, at the same time.
If you want to learn how to make a Guitar or Violin, then our specialist workshops are a great place to start. Merton College is one of the few places in the UK where you can learn this highly specialist craft of how to make musical instruments. We’re stocked with specialist craft tools as well as woodworking tools and equipment. Full-time courses for both guitar and violin making and repair are two days a week, while part-time is one day or one evening a week.
If you have any enquiries, please contact Martina Collet-Creedy by email via Martina.Collett-Creedy@stcg.ac.uk.
Many of our Professional and Personal skills courses give you the opportunity to take part in national competitions and work placements to put your studies into a real-world context and make your cv stand out. You'll learn from expert speakers and gain insight into what employers are looking for through work with top companies across different sectors. If you're looking to start your own business or boost your career, then take a look at our adult short courses to see how we can help you fill the gaps in your cv and strengthen your skillset. We offer courses from creating your own brand identity and business plan to public speaking and presentation skills.
Applied Human Sciences is an exciting Level 3 course where you will gain qualifications in different subjects in order to progress to university.
You will study three different subjects to gain qualifications in each that are the equivalent to three A levels:
Applied Psychology
Applied Human Biology
Applied Criminology
There are plenty of practical activities to boost your understanding of scientific techniques and you'll study aspects of Biology, as well as subjects specific to the Psychology/Criminology fields. Training in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) is vital in the UK and global economy today and the skills and knowledge you learn on this course could really get you ahead in the job market.
Learning how to prepare for an interview and honing your CV writing skills will dramatically improve your chances of being hired into your dream role.
These courses will provide you with the knowledge to compile a CV which advertises your skills and competencies in the best possible light.
It is an ideal course for those who want more control over their career and have more control during an interview.
ESOL courses can help you if English is your second language and you are living or planning to settle in the UK. ESOL is offered at five different levels from Pre-entry (for beginners) to Level 2 (for upper-intermediate learners). You'll need to do a short test when you apply so we can put you on the level that's right for you.
Whether you want to develop your knowledge of a specific subject or gain further qualifications to get your dream job, find a course that fits your individual needs and interests.
Benefits
At Merton College you can choose to study a variety of subjects as part of our vocational Mixed Subject Pathways. These Pathways have been built using the extensive skills and experience of our teaching teams, allowing you to study a number of different subjects which will enable you to progress on to a University level qualification or a Career in your field of interest. In addition to your chosen pathway you will also benefit from fantastic work experience and enrichment opportunities.
T Levels are a qualification that can be taken after GCSEs. Studying a T Level will take your future to the next level and we are excited to offer a range of courses which you can apply for today. Please see below for more information on T Levels and the courses available at Merton College.
Equivalent to 3 A Levels
T Levels are an alternative to A levels, Apprenticeships and other 16 to 19 vocational courses. Equivalent in size to 3 A Levels, a T Level focuses on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study or an Apprenticeship.
A 45-Day Industry Placement
Each T Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry.
80% Classroom, 20% Work
T Level students spend 80% of the course in their learning environment, gaining the skills that employers need. The other 20% is a meaningful industry placement, where they put these skills into action.
Find out more by watching this T Level Information video.
Are you interested in a sustainable future and embarking on a career to help the planet?
Whether you already have some experience in the green industry or are starting from fresh we have courses for you to excel in your Career and make a difference to the world we live in.
As green jobs are forecast to vastly increase in the coming years this is a great time to train for a career in Green Skills.
At Merton College we work to continually foster sustainability across the curriculum and enable learners at all levels to grow as individuals ready for work in a sustainable environment.
We offer a wide range of Access to Higher Education (HE) Diplomas designed to fit around your lifestyle. The Diploma is a one year long course designed for adults aged 19+ who wish to return to education, retrain or progress to undergraduate study.
Study accounting at our campuses in South London and gain recognised professional qualifications such as the AAT Diploma and Certificate and ACCA Fundamentals.
When you take an accounting or bookkeeping course with us you'll leave with the qualifications and real-world experience you need to get ahead in your career. We cater for all levels of experience with courses for beginners as well as working professionals who want to boost their skills. You can progress from Level 1 all the way through to university-level, and we offer accountancy apprenticeships if you want to earn while you study.
Our tutors have all worked in the industry so will be able to share their advice and best practice tips ensuring you're as prepared for working in accounting as possible.
The creative industries are the most exciting, dynamic, diverse and fastest growing areas in the UK, which is great news if you are thinking of Art & Design as your future career.
Our Creative Industries students work in the College’s purpose-built Creative Industries area, which incorporates art and design studios, including printmaking and pottery areas, multimedia suites and a green room.
The Level 3 Extended Diploma is a two-year programme which is equivalent to three A levels.
Our Art & Design courses are run in partnership with University Arts London (UAL)
Our baking, cake deocrating and cookery courses will teach you professional skills in cake, cake deocrating, bread and pastry making that will prepare you well to set up your own business or for progression to further study on our accredited hospitality and catering courses. You'll learn a variety of cake making methods to produce the perfect cake with a professional finish. On this course you'll learn to prepare and bake a range of delicious cakes. Each week you'll explore new skills and techniques, which will give you the confidence you need to create cakes at home for any occasion.
Our Beauty Therapy courses are taught by tutors who have the professional industry experience to make you confident, qualified and job ready. We offer a range of full-time and part-time courses in the beauty therapy and complementary therapy sectors, alongside our popular range of evening and weekend workshops designed to introduce you to new skills or to develop and expand the skillset of existing professionals in this field.
Attached to our Beauty Therapy Training School is the Headmasters Hairdressing Salon. Hairdressing treatments range from a simple cut and finish to tinting, highlighting and perming.
Our barbering section offers men’s cuts and beard trimming. Both salons are open to the public and offer a variety of hair and beauty treatments at competitive rates. This provides you with invaluable experience in preparation for the workplace.
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Study business, accounting or law with us. We offer a range of BTEC, Apprenticeship, access and university-level courses as well as professional accounting qualifications such as AAT and ACCA. No matter where you're starting from, you'll leave with a qualification to kick-start your career.
Our courses give you the opportunity to take part in work placements to put your studies into a real-world context and make your cv stand out. You'll gain insight into what employers are looking for through work with top companies across different sectors.
If you're looking to start your own business or boost your career, take a look at our adult short courses. We offer courses from creating your own brand identity and business plan to public speaking and presentation skills.
Studying and working in healthcare and childcare is an exciting and rewarding choice. There are a number of ways that you'll get to know the sector really well during your course. First of all there are our teachers who will share their vocational experiences with you while you learn. Your work placements are important too. These are your chance to discover what it's like to work in your chosen area, leaving you confident about launching your career.
You have plenty of courses to choose from – we're one of the largest training providers in south London. And as we're constantly upgrading our facilities we think you'll be impressed by our campuses too – most students are.
Train as an IT professional and you'll always be in demand in progressive and constantly expanding fast-paced industry. The skills you learn on the course are all linked to real-life projects. We'll help you meet employers too. That way you'll be clued up on all of the latest developments and have a good idea of what skills employers want.
Travel the world, start your own business or help to build an iconic landmark. This - and more - is possible with a career in construction.
London is where it all happens. There’s always an exciting development – a new skyscraper, shopping centre or urban regeneration project – to be involved with. Our courses and apprenticeships prepare you for these challenges.
Working in the Electrical profession is an increasingly popular choice, particularly as a thriving construction industry will always need qualified electricians as an essential part of the building team.
At this stage, you don't even need to decide what sort of electrician you would like to be. Our courses are designed to gradually build your skills in electrical trading, safety and industry standards, increasing your confidence and employability along the way. Practical assessments and relevant employment and work experience mean you leave our courses skilled, trained and ready to go!
If you want a career in the spotlight of the media, film or TV industry you're in the right place. This is a popular area so you need lots of experience and extra skills to give you an edge over the competition.
So make the most of our 16mm film production training because we're the only college in south London to offer it. You'll work on projects in our professional TV and film studios, digital editing facilities, a broadcast standard radio studio and an interactive G5 multimedia suite.
Health and Social Care is an exciting and rewarding choice. There is a high demand for multi-skilled and well-trained professionals across a range of rewarding employment opportunities. Your teachers will share their vocational experiences with you while you learn and you will have the opportunity to engage in work experience. Our courses are delivered creatively using students’ work experience as a focal point and enabling students to be as active, practical and work-related as possible.
Taking part in recreational activities can greatly improve physical health and wellbeing. South Thames College have Adult Learning Courses in healthy lifestyle and well-being to help you understand lifestyles and choices.
Pilates is a series of exercises designed to improve muscle control, flexibility, strength, breathing technique and posture. This course will suit you if you already have some experience of Pilates.
If you were born to perform, isn't it time you pushed your ambitions centre stage?
A performing arts course will sharpen up your acting, singing or dancing with both academic and performance training. As a member of The Collective, our theatre company, you'll star in challenging productions. Previous live public performances include dance and drama productions at the Battersea Arts Centre, touring and end-of-term shows in our own theatre
To succeed in the music business you need high-quality, practical training. Luckily you'll get that with us. Led by tutors with music and media industry backgrounds you'll have access to some really excellent facilities. We've got music technology and media suites with Apple Macs and PCs running Cubase SL3, Logic Audio, Pro Tools and Final Cut Pro. You will also work in digital and analogue recording studios and rehearsal studios.
Working in the plumbing profession is an increasingly popular choice, particularly as a thriving construction industry will always need qualified plumbers as an essential part of the building team.
Give your confidence and career a boost with a new skill.
Our part-time adult courses will help you make effective and clear presentations and improve your public speaking skills. Do you need to fill a gap in your knowledge quickly? Then you'll find our specialist courses in fundraising, neuro-linguistic programming and sponsorship for charities and business useful too.
If you're super-fit, enjoy playing sport and love seeing a game bringing people together; then we want you on our team. Learn in our new facilities which include a Sports England standard sports hall and aerobics studio.
With over 200 different jobs within the sport and leisure industry you'll never be short of opportunities. These are the paths you might follow after your course:
Learn how to become a teacher on part-time and full-time teaching qualifications. Your teaching career is in safe hands when you study with us.
Our results speak for themselves. The success rates for most of our teaching and CELTA courses are higher than the national benchmark. In fact, on many courses over 90% of students achieve the qualification. Study CELTA, TEFL or develop your teaching career with post-graduate courses for the lifelong learning sector.
You'll find studying with us a rewarding experience too. And you don't have to take our word for it. Our student evaluations show high levels of satisfaction, with comments describing tutors as 'excellent', 'very supportive' and 'having great skills'.
If you want teacher training courses that support your progression, our courses and training lead towards qualified teacher status – QTLS. And they meet all Government and Standards Verification UK (SVUK) specifications and requirements for teacher training.
The focus of our study programmes is to embed independence and employability skills to enable our learners to secure positive and meaningful progression, be that into independent living or into the workplace through vocational study within other specialist areas across the College. Aspirations for ultimate workplace progression include both voluntary and paid employment.
At South Thames College learners are based in bespoke recently developed state of the art facilities at the Wandsworth site.
ESOL can help you improve your language skills if English is not your first language and you are living or planning to settle in the UK. The course is offered from Pre-Entry level (Beginners) to Level 2 (Advanced). The courses will help you improve your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills as well as develop your understanding of grammar and your employability skills.
ESOL courses at South Thames College offer you:
We run courses at Wandsworth Campus and Tooting Centre. Classes can be in the day time (mornings or afternoons) or evenings (two evenings per week). Tooting Centre also offers ESOL classes on Saturday (10.00 to 3.00).
To succeed in the music business you need high-quality, practical training. Luckily you'll get that with us. Led by tutors with music and media industry backgrounds you'll have access to some really excellent facilities.
We've got music technology and media suites with Apple Macs and PCs running Cubase SL3, Logic Audio, Pro Tools and Final Cut Pro. You will also work in digital and analogue recording studios and rehearsal studio.
Engineers are employed in sectors from transport and construction to food, medicine and even the space industry. As engineering today is linked closely with technology, the demand for qualified engineers is on the rise thanks to the speed technology is advancing.
Whether you want to develop your knowledge of a specific subject or gain further qualifications to get your dream job, find a course that fits your individual needs and interests.
Benefits
If you are 19 or over our GCSE and Functional Skills English and maths courses can help you develop your skills, grow in confidence and achieve your goals.
The courses are available across all levels so you will be able to study at the level best suited to you. If you have applied to study GCSE with us, depending on your assessment results, we may recommend you study Functional Skills first to help you consolidate your knowledge before starting a GCSE course.
Estates and facilities management is the total management of all services and built environment infrastructure that support the core business of an organisation. Good facilities management makes a huge difference to the efficiency and productivity of a company, its staff and even its clients. Facilities Management is integral in a workspace as well as supporting business continuity and when delivered well can drive employee morale and wellbeing. Using best business practice, a company’s operating costs can be reduced while its productivity is increased. It is the discipline that ensures all the different buildings and services of a company work as efficiently as possible.
Facilities management professionals are found in all sectors of industry, commerce and public services therefore making it an ideal area for career progression. We have range of courses to support working in this sector including: cleaning, health and safety, door supervision, facilities management and security.
At South Thames College you can choose a mix of subjects to study as a vocational BTEC pathway. Our Pathways have been built using the extensive skills and experience of our teaching teams allowing you to study a number of subjects which allow you to progress on to a University level qualification or a Career in your field of interest. In addition to your chosen pathway you will also benefit from fantastic work experience opportunities.
T Levels are a qualification after GCSEs that will take your future to the next level. South Thames College is excited to be launching its first T Levelfor study from September 2023 which can be applied for today!
Equivalent to 3 A Levels
T Levels are an alternative to A levels, Apprenticeships and other 16 to 19 vocational courses. Equivalent in size to 3 A Levels, a T Level focuses on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study or an Apprenticeship.
A 45-Day Industry Placement
Each T Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry.
80% Classroom, 20% Work
T Level students spend 80% of the course in their learning environment, gaining the skills that employers need. The other 20% is a meaningful industry placement, where they put these skills into action.
Find out more by watching this T Level Information video.
Are you interested in a sustainable future and embarking on a career to help the planet?
Whether you already have some experience in the green industry or are starting from fresh we have courses for you to excel in your Career and make a difference to the world we live in.
As green jobs are forecast to vastly increase in the coming years this is a great time to train for a career in Green Skills.
At South Thames College we work to continually foster sustainability across the curriculum and enable learners at all levels to grow as individuals ready for work in a sustainable environment.
We have courses at all levels and across a broad range of subject areas. We also have lots of support available to help you make the move to college.
We prepare you for working life with practical skills too. You do this by studying in real working conditions like those in our hair and beauty salons, radio and tv recording studios and modern kitchens. Whatever course you opt for you will end up with a qualification to prepare you for your next step whether it is further study or work.
With Colleges across South West and South London, you will be sure to find a course and location right for you.
Money can be a concern when making the decision to study. With the wide range of financial help available, there is support that allows students to make an investment in a future career.
Our experienced Student Services Team can provide advice on accessing support but also to give useful advice on how to manage money whilst studying.
This section provides information about course costs and the funding/remission which may be available for UK and EU residents, which often depend upon individual circumstances.
If a student is under 19 years old on 31 August in the year they start a course and are enrolling on course with government funding, such as the full time courses they do not need to pay tuition or exam fees.
Students may have to pay a materials charge for a course, covering the costs of books and equipment, and for trips. The course information will tell a student this, or they will be told at enrolment and in the course offer letter.
Additional funding may be available to support study.
Fees are charged on all undegraduate/higher education (HE) courses. If you are studying on a higher education course - Foundation Degree, HND, HNC, Bachelor's Degree, DipHE - then you might be eligible for student loans and grants from Student Finance England.
This section contains details of undergraduate funding options available.
Learners may be able to get a discount on some of our adult courses if they are 60 or older or are receiving income-based benefit.
To get a discounted course feel learners need to come in to enrol at Student Services at any of our campuses – enrolment cannot be over the phone. They will need to bring proof of benefits or age. Proof of benefit status needs to be from the last two months.
Please note learners may still have to pay a materials fee on some courses.
Selecting which course to study can be difficult, especially when there are so many options on offer. In this section we provide information to help make that important decision a little easier. Once you have decided which study route to follow, read our tips on how to apply.
We recommend that whatever your starting point you ask yourself these three questions:
Are you in Year 10 and thinking of applying for college in September 2026?
Applications for taking up a place to study at one of our colleges in September 2026 do not open until October 2025. In the meantime, if you would like to receive updates about events, how to choose a course and sent a reminder on when applications are open please complete the form below.
We want you to be successful during your time here at College and offer a wide range of support to help ensure that you can benefit from a range of opportunities and overcome any barriers to learning and achieve your full potential. The College Group has a professional and friendly team of support staff here to offer you information, advice, guidance and enrichment.
When we talk about higher education, we mean university-level qualifications, these generally include:
This qualification prepares you for work in a specific area, usually over a year. You can move from an HNC to an HND or a foundation degree. Some universities will accept you straight on to the second or final year of an honours degree.
London welcomes International students! South Thames Colleges Group is a group of Colleges located in South West London. Our College offers excellent sports facilities with a modern sports hall and fitness centre. Courses offered include Access to Higher Education courses, Engineering, Science, Computing, Care and the Arts, as well as our popular Full Time English Language course.
Why South Thames Colleges Group?
Our International students are supported by our team who provide confidential advice and guidance in all areas and organise social events to help you make friends and contacts.
• A London-based college
• Small class sizes
• Excellent teaching
• One-to-one support
• A wide selection of courses
PLEASE NOTE: Student Route sponsorship is only available at our Kingston College site, subject to meeting the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) criteria. If you are applying from outside the United Kingdom and require a Student route visa, please email international@kingston-college.ac.uk
Learners studying on mainstream courses who have a learning difficulty, disability or health condition.
We encourage learners to disclose a learning difficulty, disability or health condition on the application form. We will then assess your needs and recommend one of the following:
Our tutors and lecturers receive training on inclusive teaching methods and can make adjustments such as providing handouts in advance, breaking down assignments and supporting you with group work. Your tutor will discuss these adjustments with you and record them on the Tutor Led Support page on Promonitor. This is the College's system for sharing information for example about support needs and academic progress with everyone who works with you.
Depending upon the outcome of this support interview, we will recommend either tutor led support, agree an initial support plan with you or make recommendations for further support.
Learners with an EHCP on Study Programmes (mainstream)
If you have an EHCP, you should name the College at your annual review so you can start the transition process. Your SEND case worker at your local authority must then amend your EHCP and consult the College before 31 March 2025. We may then talk to your school and ask to meet you to ensure we can meet your needs and agree your placement.
If you require high needs support funding, your placement at the College will be conditional on your local authority agreeing to fund this in advance of the start of term. This is so we can plan your support package with you and help your transition.
Please make your course application asap so we can invite you to a support interview to discuss your needs. Please bring your EHCP to your interview or email it in advance to: send.com.officer@stcg.ac.uk
Please also contact your local authority asap so you can request an annual review to name the College before March 2025.
If you have an EHCP and are transferring from another Post 16 College within year; your local authority must review and amend, where necessary, your EHCP at least five months before the transfer takes place.
If you require high needs support funding, your placement at the College will be conditional on your local authority agreeing to fund this in advance of your start date. This is so we can plan your support package with you and help your transition.
Please make your course application asap so we can invite you to a support interview to discuss your needs. Please bring your EHCP to your support interview or email it in advance to: send.com.officer@stcg.ac.uk
The Learning Support team will agree a package of support with you and your local authority. This is to help you to achieve on your course, meet the outcomes in your EHCP and so you can be as independent as possible.
You will be allocated a Lead Professional who will ask you what information you want to share with teaching and support staff to support your learning. They will also coordinate your support package and your annual review.
The types of support that may be offered are:
Following an assessment, the types of support that may be offered are:
If you have a disability, mental health condition or learning difficulty and are on a higher education/undergraduate course, you may be eligible for funding to help with your studies called Disabled Students' Allowance. It does not need to be repaid.
Find out more about the Disabled Students' Allowance.
You are welcome to visit us. Check our college open events page for details. Our learning support staff attend these events and can explain how you may be supported during your course. With sufficient notice, we are usually able to help with any extra support you may need eg. signers or speaking guides. All our sites are fully accessible.
Distance learning brings new challenges, from coping with unstructured time to understanding new technologies and ways of working.
This guide is designed to help and support you with your learning.
If you are a current STCG student, you can get help from your LRC team at moodle.support@stcg.ac.uk. Plus, you can access your ‘Introduction to E-safety’ course and ‘Wellbeing Hub’ on Moodle.
Use the ‘Distance Learning’ side menu to take a look at the contents of this guide.
South Thames Colleges Group (STCG) is committed to providing training and work experience opportunities for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. The focus of our study programmes is to embed independence and employability skills to enable our learners to secure positive and meaningful progression. This could be into independent living, or into the workplace through vocational study within other specialist areas within a College.
Courses at Carshalton College
Courses at Kingston College
Courses at Merton College
Courses at South Thames College
Carshalton's Facilities
Kingston's Facilities
Merton College campus provides an attractive and welcoming environment for students. The campus has been transformed over the past few years with over £40m of investment in buildings and facilities.
A massive £100m redevelopment of our Wandsworth campus a few years ago means that South Thames College still has some of the most modern and up to date facilities in the region. You’ll be amazed by the bright and spacious building set around a central courtyard area, science labs, media facilities, gym, sports hall and a spacious library and cafe.
Still looking for a course to start in September 2025? There is still time to apply for one of our courses!
Our undergraduate courses are a flexible, competitively priced and excellent value alternative to university. Study for one, two or three years with our BTEC Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs), Foundation Degrees (FdAs) and Honours Degrees in a diverse range of subjects.
Unlike many universities, we offer:
To arrange a 1-to-1 session to hear more about studying at STCG University Centre and the options available to you please contact our Group Manager for Higher Education and Quality Assurance, Dr Catherine Trenchfield: catherine.trenchfield@stcg.ac.uk
If you are not ready to join one of our undergraduate courses, enrol on one of our Access to Higher Education courses. These courses are specifically designed for those who are 19+ who do not have traditional uni level entry qualifications. Access courses combine subject specialisms at Level 3 with study skills and are designed to prepare you for university-level study.
Our students come from a diverse range of backgrounds having achieved a range of qualifications, sometimes after a gap in study, with significant real-world experience. Courses are career-focused with teaching from industry specialists, include up-to-date and career relevant content, and give you a real understanding of your chosen field.
South Thames Colleges Group has a long-established relationship of working with a wide range of employers across London from designing and delivering training programmes to providing companies with valuable work experience placements.
RETRAIN: Training Managers for a New Operating Environment
RESKILL: Staff Training for a New Kind of Workplace
RETURN: Training Redundancy Course Packages
Online Courses, Qualifications & Services
Need help with hard to fill vacancies?
Our experienced workforce training team work with employers and individuals; delivering bespoke training to upskill the workforce across south London and beyond.
If you wish to join one of our practical, industry-recognised qualifications, CV writing, interview techniques or job searching, please book onto an assessment date below.
The following courses are open to anyone 19+ and has been living in UK or EU for 3 years.
Workforce Training assessments for all our short, free courses take place on Wednesdays at 10am and 2pm at the TOOTING campus. Please book below.
These pages are designed to help parents/guardians access student information, progress reviews, attendance, as well as services available to support all students at College.
If you would like to develop your communication skills, grow in confidence and further your career goals, why not take advantage of our fully funded programmes (subject to eligibility).
These courses are designed to be flexible to suit working and or childcare arrangements. They can be delivered partly online and on site depending on your needs.
These pages are designed to help parents/guardians access student information, progress reviews, attendance, as well as services available to support all students at College.
Kingston College is committed to helping students improve their English and maths skills. Good English and maths skills help students succeed on their vocational course, enhance employment opportunities as well as encourage active participation in the community. It is a Government requirement that all students under 19 study English and maths if they do not already have a GCSE grade 4 or above in these subjects. As such the College expects all students to attend all lessons which are part of their Study Programme. If students are over 19 and would like to study English and maths, the College is committed to support them to achieve this.
These pages are designed to help parents/guardians access student information, progress reviews, attendance, as well as services available to support all students at College.
These pages are designed to help parents/guardians access student information, progress reviews, attendance, as well as services available to support all students at College.