Advice for Parents

Q: How do we book an appointment?

<p>Students can visit reception or call the call centre on <strong>0115 9100 100</strong> to book.</p>

Welcome to the Advice for Parents and Carers section.

Helping your child decide their next step can seem overwhelming, so it is reassuring to know that there is plenty of support available both at Nottingham College and externally.

Whether you are worrying about advising your teen, supporting them to choose their career path, or researching and understanding post-16 choices and the options available, you’re in safe hands. Our careers team are experienced in supporting students to aim high and realise their aspirations.

Nottingham College will…

Address the needs of each individual learner to ensure an inclusive and enjoyable college experience.
Offer workplace experience to increase learner’s confidence in progressing to a sector of their choosing.
Support your child in addressing and overcoming barriers to their ambitions via links with pastoral staff
Offer supported internships and specialist support for SEND students via our long-standing programme of Supported Learning opportunities.

What careers support is available for my child at Nottingham College?

Our college careers 1:1 service is available for your child at any point during their time at Nottingham College.

Alongside this, careers education is embedded throughout every course, so students are continually developing the knowledge and skills they need for their future. They also take part in a wide range of employer‑engagement activities including careers fairs, workshops, CV support, and other career‑related events all designed to help them explore opportunities and feel confident about their next steps.

When are careers appointments available, and how long do they last?

Careers appointments run throughout the year, including during half‑term breaks. Each session lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, giving your child plenty of time to explore their options and ask questions.

Do you support students who haven’t joined the college yet?

Yes. We also support prospective students who are considering joining us but may need 1:1 guidance on which course would suit them best.

We also have a dedicated Schools Team who visit local schools to support students, share information about our courses, offer taster days, and run campus tours so young people can experience what life at Nottingham College is really like. You can visit our Schools Hub to find out more.

Can I attend my child’s careers appointment?

Absolutely. If your child would find it helpful, they’re welcome to bring a parent or carer along to their 1:1 careers appointment.

Who will my child be speaking to?

All our careers advisors are Level 6 qualified and provide impartial, unbiased support.

How can my child have their appointment?

Appointments can take place over the phone, via Teams, or on any campus where advisors have available slots. Students can choose whichever option works best for them, regardless of where they study.

How do we book an appointment?

Students can visit reception or call the call centre on 0115 9100 100 to book.

Calling all parents!

As a parent or carer of a young person attending (or soon to attend) Nottingham College, you play a huge part in shaping their future. This is your chance to ask the Nottingham College Careers Team anything you’d like to know about careers, pathways, or next steps. Your questions will help us create a special Parents Episode "Ask the question and we will answer" of the Nottingham College Careers Team Podcast, where we’ll answer as many of them as possible and share insights to support you and your young person. We’d love to hear what’s on your mind — let’s explore their future together.

Ask your question

Useful links and resources

Parents play a huge role in shaping a young person’s education and career choices. Their encouragement, expectations and everyday conversations often influence what students feel confident exploring and the paths they consider possible.

That’s why we want to make sure parents and carers feel informed, supported and equipped to guide their children through these important decisions.

We’ve pulled together these resources to help you feel confident supporting your young person with their education and career choices, and we’ll continue to add more over time.