Why Choose Merrist Wood College
Deciding where and what to study after GCSEs are possibly some of the most important and life changing choices your son or daughter will make. We understand the challenges facing them as they take the next step in their education and aim to provide them as new students and you as their parents with a smooth and supportive transition process. We offer:
Quality guaranteed
Ofsted Inspectors comments July 2009:
"Outstanding provision in land-based, equine and animal care"
"Outstanding teaching and learning"
"The estate provides a high quality natural resource which is effectively used, along with specialist resources to support learning"
"Teaching is lively and imaginative"
Progression
Our students often move on to our Foundation Degrees and Degrees available at the College. They also secure places at some of the UK’s leading universities. We have a very good track record when it comes to entering employment.
Range of courses
We can offer more courses than any other College in the county, with progression from Foundation to Degree level. The College prides itself on matching the right qualification to the right student. Every student has a detailed pre-course interview to discuss the course and their future plans and all courses start with an induction programme. If, after the start of the course, it becomes apparent that another subject or level would be more appropriate, it is possible to transfer to a different course.
Top quality support
All students have a personal tutor who meets with them regularly on an individual and group basis to discuss progress, set targets and address any issues or support needs. Our Student Services Team can provide counselling, study support and advice on travel, financial help and health matters. Our Additional Learning Support Team helps students with dyslexia, physical disabilities and sensory impairments.
High quality tuition
Our tutors are all industry professionals and our teaching and learning was graded “outstanding” by Ofsted at our last inspection.
Resources and facilities
We recognise the importance of high quality teaching and learning resources and continue to invest in our facilities. These include one of the largest indoor riding arenas in the country; specialist areas for large, small and exotic animals in our animal management centre; our 400 acre estate featuring woodlands, wetlands and grasslands; a campus nursery; 18-hold adjoining privately-owned golf course; sports pitches and library facilities.
Added extras
Our students benefit from practical and hands-on experience and activities such as field trips, fundraisers, events and more. We want them to have an interesting and varied curriculum.