Strode College

Strode College

Age: 112

History: The original Technical Institute opened in 1899. It then re-opened as a college in 1973.

Address: Street, Somerset.

Ambience: A friendly and supportive atmosphere. A high-flying college, it was awarded Beacon status in February 2004.

Vital statistics: Around 5,000 students, with 3,000 of these being adult learners. Courses range from GCSEs to foundation degrees. Provides education and training too the people of Street, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet, Langport, Wells and Castle Cary.

Added value: High students success rates. Wide range of 'enrichment activities' on offer, including various sports, Duke of Edinburgh's Award, a college ensemble, college choir and college theatre. New sports facilities, including a floodlit all-weather pitch, opened in 2008. The Business Development Unit provides a range of services to local employers. The college was recognised as a Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) in business and management skills in 2004. As a member of the University of Plymouth Colleges Partnership, foundation degrees are validated by the university.

Easy to get into? Keen on widening participation, but evidence of study at Level 3 is usually required for all HE courses.

Glittering alumni: None as yet.

Transport links: The main transport services into the college are public service bus routes.

Who's the boss? Principal James Staniforth.

Teaching: When Ofsted inspected the college in October 2008, they found the quality of the college's standards to be 'good' across all areas. The capacity of the college to improve was judged as 'outstanding'.

Foundation degrees: Just the one this year – managing in the public services – but there is also a pre-degree diploma in art and design.

Nightlife: There is a local nightclub and a variety of lively pubs, bars and restaurants. The Glastonbury Festival is held nearby almost every summer.

Any accommodation? None offered by the college, but it can adive on homestays.

Cheap to live there? Varies – rents can range between £55 and £90 per week across Somerset.

Fees: Vary for FE courses, with many students eligible for fee exemption. Full-time HE courses starting in 2011 are £2,800 per year. 2012 entrants will pay £5,950 per year.

Bursaries: £500 for full-time HE students in receipt of a full maintenance grant. In 2012, the college will be taking part in the National Scholarship Programme.

Prospectus: 01458 844 422; www.strode-college.ac.uk

UCAS code: S80