For students under 18, we monitor attendance closely and will contact you if there’s a pattern of absence or a concern. Because students are treated as young adults, we focus on working with them first, and with you when it matters.
College isn't school
The biggest surprise for most families is how different college feels. Here's what to expect, so none of it catches you off guard.
Not every day, 9 to 3
A full-time timetable is usually 16 to 21 hours a week, so they may not be in every day. The rest is independent study.
Treated as an adult
Students take more responsibility for their own attendance, deadlines and choices. It's a big part of how they grow here.
Independent study
Free periods aren't days off. They're for coursework, research and getting ready for assessments, with support on hand.
A fresh start
Many students thrive at college because it feels grown-up. A course they chose, new people, and a chance to reinvent themselves.
Introduction to who we are
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Wellbeing, Counselling and Safeguarding
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E-Safety
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Personal Development
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Additional Learning Support
Your questions answered
The things parents ask us most
Straight answers to the questions we hear most often. Use the menu on the right to jump around, or to reach us if something's worrying you.
Safeguarding & safety
Keeping them safe Safeguarding & safety Your young person's safety is our first priority, on campus and online.
Attendance & contact
Staying in the loop Attendance & contact Because students are treated as adults, we work in partnership with you rather than reporting like a school. Here's how it works.
Money & finance
Cost should never be the reason a young person misses out. There's more help available than most families expect.
Wellbeing & mental health
Someone to talk to Wellbeing & mental health If your young person is struggling, they're never on their own. Support is easy to reach and confidential.
Studies & learning support
Extra help Studies & learning support From English and maths to additional learning support, there's help to make sure your young person achieves their best.
Your role
How you can support them
Your encouragement makes a real difference. You don't need to manage everything, just be in their corner. A few simple things help most.
Champion good attendance
Turning up is the single biggest predictor of success. A gentle nudge on the tough mornings goes a long way.
Talk about money support
Many families don't realise what they're entitled to. Encourage them to check bursaries, meals and travel help early.
Know the signs, and speak up
If something feels off, trust your instinct and contact us. You know your young person best.
Words explained
Jargon buster
College comes with its own language. Here's what the common terms actually mean.
Study Programme
Your child's full package: their main course, English and maths if needed, work experience and enrichment.
Personal Development
A weekly session covering wellbeing, safety, money, careers and life skills, on top of the main course.
ILP
Individual Learning Plan. The record of your child's targets, progress and next steps, reviewed with their tutor.
Functional Skills
Practical English and maths qualifications, an alternative route if a GCSE grade 4 isn't reached yet.
T Level
A two-year technical qualification, roughly equal to three A Levels, with a substantial industry placement.
ALS
Additional Learning Support. Extra help for students with a learning difficulty, disability or medical need.
EHCP
Education, Health and Care Plan. A legal document setting out the support a young person with SEND receives.
DNConnect
The app your child uses for their timetable, attendance and to report an absence, and where you can stay updated.
UCAS
The service students apply through for university. Our careers team supports them the whole way.
Nothing matches that. Try another word.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
It happens, and it’s fixable. Early in the year our Course Swap Shop and careers team help students move onto something that fits better, so a wrong first choice doesn’t hold them back.
Yes. Depending on household income, students may get help with meals, travel, equipment, trips and childcare, and in some cases course costs. Our team will help you check what you’re entitled to and apply.
For anything about safety or wellbeing, email the safeguarding team at safeguarding@dncolleges.ac.uk. For general questions, call 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk. We would always rather you got in touch.
Yes. We hold progress evenings during the year and open events where you and your young person can look around, meet staff and ask anything. Keep an eye on the website for dates.
Absolutely. Our Additional Learning Support team often begins planning before enrolment, including for students with an EHCP, so the right support is in place from day one. Contact als.support@don.ac.uk to talk it through.