Gower College Swansea

Age: One, in its current guise

History: The original Swansea College was built in 1825 and was situated near the Swansea Dock area. This building also housed the guildhall, law courts and juvenile centre after being rebuilt in 1848. From 1960, the building was solely used as a college of further education, housing 700 students. After rapid expansion, the college relocated to a new site in Tycoch in 1971. In August 2010, Swansea College merged with Gorseinon College, just north of the city to form Gower College Swansea.

Address: Nine sites across Swansea and the Gower peninsular, but the two main campuses are at Belgrave Road, Gorseinon and Tycoch Road, Swansea.

Ambience: One of the largest further education colleges in Wales. It brings together two successful institutions, characterised by consistently high standards of teaching and learning.

Vital statistics: Approximately 4,500 full-time and another 4,500 part-time students, with 350 students studying at university level. Wide portfolio of courses, excellent links with industry and the community and highly qualified staff. At HE level, the college offers three HNDs and one degree in partnership with both the city's universities. The only FE college in the area to offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate qualification.

Added value: The college is keen on widening participation, lifelong learning, and equal opportunities. Close links with employers and strong provision of community education.

Easy to get into? Requirements vary depending on course and qualification. All HE courses ask for one A-level pass or equivalent.

Glittering alumni: Kelly Goss, who studied fashion at Swansea College, has since worked on a Kate Moss for Topshop collection and launched her own label, Rock ‘n’ Needle. Henri Oguike, who runs his own dance company in London, also studied at Swansea College.

Transport links: Regular buses to the city centre from both main sites. Close to the M4. Trains from Swansea to London take three hours and travel via Cardiff and Bristol.

Who's the boss? Nick Bennett is principal. He formerly held the position at Gorseinon College.

Teaching: Being such a new college, it is yet to be inspected. However, an Estyn report of Swansea College in 2006 awarded grades of good or very good to most of the learning areas inspected.

Nightlife: Swansea has plenty of pubs and clubs and a lively student scene.

Any accommodation? None provided by the college.

Cheap to live there? Yes indeed. Just £60 per week for a room in a shared flat.

Fees: For FE courses, they vary by programme and qualification. HE fees for 2011 entry are £3,375 per year for full-time courses. Course fees for 2012 will be set by franchised universities – Swansea University will be charging £9,000 per year and Swansea Metropolitan has set its average fee at £8,500 per year.

Bursaries: None offered by the college. Students are advised to approach their local branch of Student Finance.

Prospectus: 01792 284 000; www.gowercollegeswansea.ac.uk

UCAS code: S94