If you’re in Year 11 and starting to think about life after school, now’s the time to explore your options. Whether you know exactly what you want to do or you’re still figuring it out, Suffolk New College has loads of opportunities to help you take that next step.
Applications for September 2026 are now open, so let’s take a look at what’s on offer.
What Can You Study?
At Suffolk New College, you can choose from:
- Vocational Programmes – These are practical courses that focus on specific careers. You’ll learn by doing, whether that’s in a workshop, salon, kitchen or studio.
- T-Levels – These are a mix of classroom learning and real-world experience. You’ll spend 45 days on placement with an employer, which gives you a solid head start in your chosen industry.
- Apprenticeships – If you want to earn while you learn, this could be the route for you. You’ll work in a real job, get paid and study towards a qualification at the same time.
We offer a wide range of levels, so whether you’re aiming high or need a bit more support to get started, there’s something here for you.
Why Suffolk New College?
There’s a lot more to college than just picking a course. Here’s why Suffolk New College stands out:
- Four Campuses Across Suffolk – Ipswich, Otley, Leiston and Halesworth. That means more choice and the broadest range of courses in the county.
- Over 170 Industry Partners – These employers help shape what we teach, give guest lectures and offer work placements. You’ll learn skills that actually matter in the workplace.
- Strong Student Support – From wellbeing and mental health to careers advice and financial help, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
- Personal Development – You’ll build confidence, independence and life skills that go beyond the classroom.
What Happens After College?
Most of our courses allow you to move on to university if that’s your goal. Others are designed to get you straight into work with the skills and experience employers are looking for.
Whether you want to be a designer, a chef, a mechanic, a nurse or something completely different, we’ll help you get there.
How to Apply
It’s easy to get started. Just head to our A to Z of subjects, browse the courses and hit apply. You don’t need to have everything figured out right now. Just take the first step and see where it leads.
Need some more help? Visit our How To Apply page for a video guide!