As the exam season enters its final weeks, many school leavers will be looking ahead to college - some of them with trepidation!

Making the move from school to college is a big step. Gloucestershire College has prepared some tips to help ease the transition.

Start preparing now

After the exams, summer is the perfect time to wind down, relax and enjoy the sun. But it's also a good time to start thinking about and preparing for college. This can be simple, from buying the right stationery, a water bottle, a new bag and any tools that might help you study.

Plan your travel to college

You will be making your commute to college many times over the coming years and it will probably be further than you travelled to school, so knowing your daily route is key. Gloucestershire College has three campuses - Gloucester, Cheltenham and Forest of Dean. There is information on the college website on the best way to get to campus. Why not give it a test run this summer?

Student mentors

Student mentors at Gloucestershire College help support their fellow students throughout their time at the college. They work alongside academic lecturers (that you call by their first name) to ensure students have everything they need to learn successfully.

Make new friends and sign up to groups

Starting college is a great opportunity to form new friendships. While students will naturally get to know new people on their courses, Gloucestershire College also has many clubs and activities to get involved in that will help them meet new people and settle into life at college.

The college has enrichment clubs and activities in E-gaming, football, mindfulness pool, learn to cook, multisports and LGBTQ+.

Think about your future

It is never too early to be thinking about the future after college. Gloucestershire College has many opportunities to explore to help understand how to prepare for life after college. Make a CV, research what sector you would like to work in, speak to the Employability Team or create a careers appointment! Student mentors will also be able to offer support, as they can make links with staff across the college, including the learning support, advice and guidance and employment coaches.

Don't compare yourself to others

Everyone travels on a different journey at college and throughout life. Use this new opportunity to leave the past in the past and create something fantastic for your future!