Starting your further education course
Find your First day information, Course timetables, support available and more here.
YOUR FIRST DAY
Once you have enrolled and received your enrolment confirmation email, your next step is to find out when your first day will be. For some courses, your first day will take place during Connect to College Week, also known as Induction week. Please check whether your course is included in these induction sessions and make sure you attend. These sessions are a compulsory part of your course and take place before your regular course timetable starts.
Connect to College Week is a great opportunity to settle into college life. You'll meet your tutors and classmates, learn more about your course, and take part in activities designed to help you build confidence and feel part of the college community.
Make sure you visit the First Day Information page and add the dates to your diary. It includes everything you need to know about where to go, when to arrive, and what to bring.
YOUR COURSE TIMETABLE
Once your place at college has been confirmed and you've attended your induction, you will be ready to start attending your classes.
Please remember: you cannot attend classes until your enrolment has been completed and your place at college has been confirmed.
GETTING READY – WHAT TO WEAR, BRING, AND PREPARE FOR THE YEAR AHEAD
Bring a notepad and pen – and come ready to learn! There's no dress code unless your course has a uniform, but please wear something appropriate and respectful.
Your tutor will let you know if you need anything else.
You can bring your own laptop or tablet if you have one. If not, don’t worry – you can:
- Borrow one from our Learning Environments (Libraries)
- Buy a discounted device through our Dell student scheme
You'll also get a college computer account. To set it up, you’ll need to bring your phone on the first day to complete security checks.
THE SOCIAL SIDE OF COLLEGE LIFE
College is more than just lessons — it’s a chance to make new friends, try new things, and enjoy more freedom than ever before.
You’ll meet people in your classes, tutor groups, and at events like Freshers’ Fairs, where you can check out clubs, support services, and even part-time job opportunities.
Every campus also has a Student Leadership Team (SLT). They run events, plan activities, and make sure your voice is heard. They help shape college life and improve things for all students.
Look out for students wearing dark pink lanyards — that’s the SLT. Anyone can get involved, or just come along and share your ideas!
If you need help settling in, our Student Support team is always there for you.
CAMPUS INFORMATION AND TRAVEL
Our campuses are easy to get to, with great transport links nearby. For travel options and parking info, check your college’s travelling to college page.
Once you're here, you’ll find Recharge cafés serving hot and cold food, plus vending machines for snacks. You’re also welcome to bring food from home.
Unlike school, you’ll have the freedom to leave campus between lessons, so you can pop to nearby shops or grab something to eat when you're not in class.
SUPPORT AVAILABLE
We want to support you with a range of dedicated services during your time studying with us at Activate Learning. If you need any financial support to help with everyday costs, such as travel, uniforms, or equipment required for your course, please know that support is available for students from lower-income households.
For more details on travel options, parking, and financial assistance, please visit the relevant information pages or speak to a member of our Advice and Admissions team—we’re here to help you every step of the way.
