Norton Radstock College

Norton Radstock College

Age: 12

History: Initially formed as an institution in the 1940s to cater for the needs of the local mining community. Today the college has evolved into a key training provider in the area with sites in Radstock, Midsomer Norton, Keynsham and Peasedown St John.

Address: The main site is in South Hill Park, Radstock.

Ambience: Semi-rural. Friendly atmosphere at all the sites. College specialises in vocational courses.

Vital statistics: Approximately 1,000 full-time students and 5,000 part-time students.

Added value: Offers a diverse range of vocational courses at all levels. Every year students are involved in overseas trips, fundraising, competitions and local events. Good enrichment programme for full-time students. Offers foundation degrees in partnership with Bath Spa University.

Easy to get into? Most courses require an interview, and many will require entry qualifications: see their website for more details.

Glittering alumni: None yet, but give it time.

Transport links: The college provides a free bus service from the surrounding area for full-time students. Good access to local bus services and ample free parking at most sites.

Who's the boss? Shirley Arayan, principal and chief executive. Her background is in industry and local government.

Teaching: Rated 'satisfactory' over in its most recent Ofsted inspection.

Foundation degrees: Education studies for teaching assistants; health and social care management; management and management systems.

Nightlife: Bath, with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs is the closest town, just eight miles away. The world-famous Glastonbury Festival takes place just 13 miles down the road in the village of Pilton.

Any accommodation? None provided by the college.

Cheap to live there? Not particularly. Around £80 per week for a room in a shared flat.

Fees: FE fees vary and most students are exempt from paying. Foundation degrees are £3,375 per year for those starting in 2011. Fees for 2012 entrants will be announced shortly.

Bursaries: Bath Spa University offers up to £1,200 per year to those studying foundation degrees.

Prospectus: 01761 433 161; www.nortcoll.ac.uk

UCAS code: N81