Advice for new students

Your journey at Bridgend College starts here, and we can’t wait to meet you!

To get started, you will need to attend your scheduled enrolment session and induction days. More information will be sent to you via email. You can also find out more by visiting our Enrolment information page.

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Check out our FAQs below to find everything you need to know. Remember, we’re here to help you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need a hand. You can contact hello@bridgend.ac.uk 

Four students sit around a wooden table smiling and chatting over coffee in a bright café.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is enrolment?

Enrolment is the formal process of signing up for your course, which is required in order to become an official Bridgend College student. You will receive an invitation from us to attend college to enrol via post and email.

The process will involve meeting with our Skills and Curriculum teams to ensure that you are enrolling onto the correct course, based on your qualifications. 

As part of your Bridgend College Learning Journey, you are required to follow a Skills for Success Programme. There are a number of pathways which will be selected at enrolment. This selection will reflect your current course application, your chosen curriculum area, as well as your previous learning in Maths and English.

Our enrolment team will then take you through the registration process, which will require you to make a £40 payment to cover the enrolment administration fee.

You may also need to pay a materials fee, depending on the course you’re studying.

If you have obtained GCSEs or other qualifications, please bring evidence of your results with you along with proof of your identity, such as a driver’s license, birth certificate, or passport. We will then issue you with your Bridgend College Student ID card.

There will also be the opportunity to get advice and guidance on everything from student finance and transport to how you can enhance your student experience.

You are welcome to bring a parent, carer or friend with you. However, transport to and from campus will not be provided.

If you would prefer to access the enrolment process in a lower stimulation environment, please inform one of our team when you arrive and we can direct you to a suitable space.

When is enrolment, induction and the first day of term?

Enrolment sessions take place in July and August and will depend on the course you’re studying – please refer to your enrolment invite for your specific date and time. Our progressing students also enrol in June.

Induction for new students takes place on Tuesday 1, Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 September.

It is important that you attend your enrolment session and induction days.

The first day of teaching for the 2026-27 academic year is Tuesday 1 September 2026.

What wellbeing support is available for me while at college?

Our Student Wellbeing Team is here to support you with all aspects of your wellbeing during your time at college. Whether you need advice, someone to talk to, or extra support with an ongoing issue, we are here to listen and help you access the right support.

You can book an appointment or attend our daily drop-in service between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm at Pencoed Campus (Main Teaching Block) or Bridgend Campus (A Block) to speak with a member of the Wellbeing Team.

You can also ask for support at any time by:

  • Using the “Report a Concern” button on the Student Portal
  • Scanning the QR code displayed in your classroom or around campus

These options allow you to request support quickly and discreetly, and a member of the Wellbeing Team will contact you as soon as possible.

You can also access free and confidential support 24 hours a day through the WISDOM app. The app provides immediate access to qualified counsellors via live chat, phone and video, as well as a wide range of self-help resources to support your mental health and wellbeing whenever you need it.

More information about the WISDOM app and how to access support will be shared in tutorials and assemblies throughout the year.

Will I receive an induction?

All students will receive a college induction, where we will welcome you and help you settle into college life. You will be shown how to access your college timetable and emails and navigate your study spaces – your tutors will be on hand to help you too.

For students with an Additional Learning Need who have been accessing enhanced transition support, your allocated transition co-ordinator will also be available as a friendly face to help you settle into college life during induction activities.

How do I apply for funding and financial support?

Our Student Services team can assist you with your student finance applications. You can find them opposite the coffee shop on Bridgend Campus and to the left of the entrance in the Main Teaching Block on Pencoed Campus. They will also be available during enrolment to help answer your questions.

How do I get to college?

We have campuses across Bridgend County Borough, in Bridgend, Pencoed and Queens Road, all of which are accessible by public transport. Speak to our helpful Student Services team or visit our dedicated transport page for further information.

Please note: the college does not arrange individual transport for learners with an additional learning need. Please contact your local authority if you feel you may be entitled to be considered for continued support from your school transport service.

Will there be events for new students?

Yes! We host a freshers event where all our students, returning and new, are invited to come along. You will be able to meet students and staff from across Bridgend College, take part in lots of fun activities, pick up freebies and win some prizes!

  • Bridgend Campus, Tuesday 8 September, 12-1.30pm
  • Pencoed Campus, Wednesday 9 September, 12-1.30pm

Please note, these are not your induction or enrolment sessions.

Where can I buy food and drink?

There is a coffee shop and refectory at our Bridgend and Pencoed Campuses, selling a range of hot and cold food and drinks. There is also a sandwich bar in the Main Teaching Block in Pencoed. There are also several places to buy food close to all campuses. 

If you are eligible for free school meals, you can apply for this on the Student Finance Page.

Find maps of our campuses below:

A smiling student receives a cardboard takeaway box from a server behind a canteen counter.

Bridgend Campus

A group of laughing students with lanyards sit at a wooden table in a campus cafe with coffee and snacks.

Pencoed Campus

What other resources do you have on campus?

Big Bocs Bwyd is our very own sustainable supermarket right here on campus. By repurposing donations from local stores, we offer a pay-what-you-can shopping experience for all students – stop by today and see what’s in store!

Y Siop – Looking for a bargain? Pop by to Y Siop! Providing sustainable, affordable clothing for students, Y Siop is the college’s second hand treasure trove!

Working Wardrobe – Can’t find something to wear for that job interview? Working Wardrobe can provide students with affordable clothing that will boost your confidence and nail that interview! Pop by student services to find out more.

Are there any clubs or societies I can join?

Absolutely! Clubs and societies vary year on year, but you can find out more information about enhancing your student experience on our Student Voice page. There will also be information available at enrolment, or you can also talk to the active wellbeing lead to find out more.

Where can I park?

At our Pencoed campus, you can park in either the top or bottom car parks, in any available, marked space. 

In Bridgend, you can park in any available marked space. There are two car parks with separate entrances, so if you are unable to find parking in the main car park by reception, there may be available spaces in the car park near the Sony Theatre.

If you need to park in a blue badge space in Bridgend or Pencoed, please park in any available space and display your blue badge as normal.

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