Walsall College

Walsall College is a further education provider in the West Midlands, with a specific focus on vocational training. Over 7,500 young people and adults enrol at the institution each year. The college was ranked 'Outstanding' by Ofsted in 2013.

Background and history

The college is the largest provider of 14-19 education in the Borough of Walsall and has been in existence as an academic institution for almost sixty years. However, most of the original buildings are gone: the Wisemore Campus is brand new, having been opened in 2009; while the Green Lane Campus was also fully refurbished.

Location and accessibility

Both of the college campuses are located in Walsall Town centre, with the Green Lane Campus just off the A34, and the Wisemore Campus on Littleton Street West. Both are well within walking distance from the bus and train stations. There is parking available on site for students (costing £3 a day) as well as numerous town centre car parks that are within easy reach of either campus.

What's on offer?

The college provides only vocational education programmes, as well as work-based courses and apprenticeships. Qualifications include: BTECs, HNDs, NVQs, plus HE honours degrees. In addition to its college facilities, it operates the largest sixth form centre in the borough, 'V6'.

All the courses offered by the college are vocational in design and cover a wide variety of subject areas.

Additionally, the college caters for deaf students with its own Deaf Academy, plus it has an international centre for students from abroad. Higher Education courses are also available in conjunction with the Universities of Birmingham and Wolverhampton.

Finance and funding

There is a dedicated help with funding service that gives advice on money matters for students over the age of 19. 24+ Advanced Learning loans may be available as well as a specialised Walsall College bursary. For 19+ students there are flexible payment plans on offer to assist with the cost of education.

The Job Shop aims to help students and unemployed members of the public into work, and support employers with their training and recruitment needs. It offers a range of part-time and full-time jobs, apprenticeships and work experience opportunities, impartial careers advice and help with CV writing, application forms and interview skills.

The Graduate Academy of Hair and Beauty operates as a commercial salon which is open to the public. Students and senior stylists and therapists provide the treatments which include relaxation sessions in a flotation tank, micro-dermabrasion treatments and manicures and pedicures. Sun bed sessions, spray tan and Fake Bake self tan are also available.

Jerome's Restaurant is staffed by trainee students from the school of hospitality and offers dining for fellow students, as well as members of the public. It is open 12-2 Mon-Fri, additionally opening Thurs 6-8:30.

Academy Health Club consists of a gym, cardio equipment and a free weights area that is open to students and members of the public. Students can get access to the gym for as little as £12.50 a month.

Car Service Valet Bay is operated on campus by the college's automotive students and offers oil filter changes, engine diagnostics and emission checks. There are further additional services available, including a full valet.

The Learning Resource Centre will provide you with your books, periodicals, journals, newspapers, audio/visual materials, internet access and specialist resources,plus an email account and printing credits.