Checklist

Get proof of ID

You’ll need some form of identification when you enrol at Furness College in September, so having an up-to-date passport, driving licence, provisional driving licence, bank card or CitizenCard really speeds up this process. You’ll also need ID for things such as opening a bank account or as proof of age, so keeping your ID up to date will make things easier for you.

Click here to apply for a CitizenCard.

Open your own bank account

Bank accounts help to build your credit score, which will help you in the future when it comes to seeking credit, whether this be for purchases, products or mortgages. Opening a bank account usually requires two forms of ID, which is another good reason to have up-to-date ID! This is usually photo ID, such as a passport, and proof of name and address, such as a bill or a letter. You can open a current account at most banks on the high street or some banks have the option to apply online.

Click here to find out more about opening a bank account.

Bursary

If your household income is under £23,000 then you may be entitled to support from the College bursary, this may include help towards travel costs; college meals and/or kit and equipment. Please ask your parent or carer to check out further information on our Financial Support page.

We will be able to send you an electronic application form if you send a request to info@furness.ac.uk

Have you received your National Insurance Number?

Your National Insurance (NI) Number is a personal account number that will be used throughout your life by HM Revenue and Customs and other important organisations. Having a National Insurance number shows you have the right to work and study in the UK and ensures your National Insurance contributions and tax are recorded against your name only.

You’ll normally be sent a National Insurance number automatically, in the 3 months before your 16th birthday, if both the following are true:

• you live in the UK
• a parent has filled in a Child Benefit claim form for you

If you’re aged 16 to 19 and have not yet received one, contact HM Revenue and Customs.

Keep copies of your certificates

Certificates are important to prove your qualifications and competencies, and all employers will ask for these, usually during the interview and selection process. Create a folder of plastic wallets, add your certificates in as you achieve them and make sure the folder is kept in a safe place that you can easily access. If you lose your certificates, copies can cost around £35 per certificate to replace and you have to know the examination body and the place of study when applying for a replacement.

Check out the opportunities on offer at Furness College

At Furness College, we encourage you to actively take part in the many extracurricular opportunities on offer such as:

• Freshers’ Fair
• Fundraising events for local and national charities
• Students’ Union/Course Reps/Learner Voice
• Work experience opportunities
• Opportunities to compete at County and National Level in athletics and cross country
• Gold Duke of Edinburgh
• National Citizen Service

All of them would make worthy additions to your CV or UCAS application to show universities or prospective employers that you have encompassed the full experience of college life and have been prepared to step out of your comfort zone and take part. We will do our very best to make your time with us a memorable one!

Furness College Students’ Union (FCSU)

Regardless of which campus you attend, every learner is a member of the Students’ Union. You can benefit hugely by being a Student Representative or Officer as the experience will develop your confidence and improve your communication, organisational and teamwork skills. All these personal attributes are much sought after by employers and universities. Check out more information here.

Keep up to date with the Students’ Union by following:

Facebook: Furness College Students’ Union
Instagram: Furness College Students’ Union
Twitter: @theFCSU

Get fit for less with our fantastic sports facilities

With its £47 million campus, Furness College provides a suite of state-of-the-art sporting venues to join or for hire.

We offer a student gym membership for students from all campuses for £36 a term (£9 a month). There’s a £6 joining fee which includes initial induction and fitness programme if desired.

Careers Advice and Guidance

The College has a team of Career Professionals who not only advise and guide you once you are studying at College but are available to provide support now should you have any questions. We also work closely with Inspira and Hello Future to ensure we enhance your package of career support. It is never too early to consider what kind of jobs you would like to do in the future! Please look at our page on Planning your Future for more information and useful resources.