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A University Guide for Care Leaver Students, Parents and Guardians

We offer a university experience with the support and reassurance parents value — where your young person feels safe, supported and prepared for their future.

Supporting Your Young Person at University

Choosing university is a big step — not just for students, but for parents, guardians and carers too.

At Bishop Burton College, we understand that you want your young person to be safe, supported and set up for success. Our University Centre offers a more personalised alternative to traditional universities, combining academic study with practical, career-focused learning.

We work closely with students to help them develop independence, confidence and the skills they need for their future.  To support, students may be eligible for a contextual offer, which can reduce the entry requirements (typically by one grade), helping support access to higher education.

We are committed to offering support to Care-Experienced Students*, including:
  • Care leavers (We define a care leaver as a young person over the age of 16 who has been in care of the local authority and/or Health and Social Care Trust for at least 13 weeks since the age of 14.)
  • Care-experienced students (in care at any point in life)

We encourage you to declare this on your UCAS application so we can provide the right support

Support for care-experienced students 

Accommodation
  • You will be given priority in choice of University accommodation (please ensure your accommodation application arrives ahead of the deadline)
  • Complimentary welcome packages will be provided if you move into University owned accommodation, including bedding, saucepans and other useful products.

Financial

  • If you’re looking to get a job whilst studying, you are guaranteed to receive an interview for a role within one of our food outlets. This offers you regular paid work throughout the year which you can fit around your studies. The university has other bursaries available to support ALL students , care leaver students are prioritised for all funding sources. Students who disclose on their UCAS form at the time of applying that they are in or have been in care will be reviewed for any relevant bursaries.

Contextualised Offers

  • As a care leaver, you are eligible for a *contextual offer, this is an entry offer normally one grade lower than the typical entry offer shown on our course pages or in our prospectus, but can differ depending on the subject you would like to study. *lower entry possible for most programmes

Why Choose Bishop Burton for Higher Education?

University Centre Bishop Burton (UCBB) offers a different kind of university experience.

  • Students benefit from:
  • Smaller class sizes and more individual support
  • Tutors with real industry experience
  • A strong focus on employability and career outcomes
  • Access to specialist land-based facilities
  • A safe, supportive campus environment
  • Free transport to and from university (enquire via our website or email: bursaries@bishopburton.ac.uk) - Free transport available via college buses or mileage reimbursement.

This approach helps students transition from college to university with confidence, while still feeling supported.

Student Support and Wellbeing 

We know that student wellbeing is just as important as academic success.

  • Our dedicated support teams provide:
  • Mental health and wellbeing support
  • Counselling and pastoral care
  • Academic guidance and study support
  • Life skills and personal development

Students have access to a wide range of services designed to help them succeed both academically and personally.

Finance and Costs Explained

Understanding university finances can feel overwhelming.

Students at Bishop Burton can access:

  • Student loans for tuition and living costs
  • Additional funding reviewed if declared on UCAS
  • Financial support and bursaries (where eligible)
  • Guidance on budgeting and managing money
  • Students will benefit from guaranteed interviews for on-campus work (flexible around studies)

We provide clear advice and support throughout the process to help both students and parents feel confident about funding university study.

Find out more
Bishop Burton College HE Graduations 2024 3

Accommodation and Safety

For many parents, one of the biggest concerns is where their child will live.

At Bishop Burton, students can benefit from:

  • Priority access to university accommodation
  • Free welcome pack (e.g. bedding, kitchen essentials)
  • On-site accommodation options
  • A safe and secure campus environment
  • Support from residential and welfare teams
  • A close-knit student community

This creates a supportive transition into independent living, while ensuring students are well looked after.

Find out more

Career Outcomes and Progression

A key question for parents is: “Where will this lead?”

Our degree courses are designed with employers to ensure students graduate with real-world, job-ready skills.

  • Graduates progress into careers across:
  • Agriculture and land-based industries
  • Animal and equine sectors
  • Sport and health industries
  • Environmental and conservation roles

Many students also move on to postgraduate study or specialist career pathways.

Staying Informed as a Parent

While university encourages independence, we understand that parents still want to stay informed.

We provide:

  • Clear communication during the application and enrolment process
  • Guidance on key stages such as offers, finance and starting university
  • Opportunities to attend Open Events and visit campus

This helps you feel confident and reassured throughout your young person’s journey.

Student success graduation University Centre Bishop Burton graduates throw caps into the sky

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bishop Burton a safe place for students?

Will my child be living on campus?

Will my child get enough support at university?

What wellbeing support is available?

How does student finance work?

Are there bursaries or financial support options?

Do degree courses lead to good careers?

What careers can students progress into?

Is Bishop Burton different from a traditional university?

Can parents visit the campus?

Important things to consider

Key things to consider:

  • Choosing the Right Course
    With over 40 degree-level courses across 8 subject areas, finding the right fit is essential for long-term success.
  • Entry Requirements
    Understand the UCAS points or qualifications needed for each course before applying.
  • Application Process
    Most applications are made through UCAS — we provide guidance at every stage.
  • Costs and Financial Support
    Consider tuition fees and living costs, alongside bursaries and financial support options.
  • Study Skills and Support
    Students receive help with academic writing, assignments and exam preparation to build confidence and succeed.

Useful links

Extracurricular Activities

Students at Bishop Burton can get involved in a wide range of activities alongside their studies, helping them build confidence, skills and friendships.

Sports Teams & Clubs

  • Men’s and Women's Football
  • Men’s and Women's Rugby
  • Netball
  • Equine

Student Voice & Committees

  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee
  • Opportunities to shape the student experience

Enrichment & Social Activities

  • A variety of enrichment programmes and social groups
  • Activities designed to support wellbeing and personal development

Volunteering & Industry Experience

We have strong links with local employers, including Hull City Football Academy, florists and equine yards.

As part of their course, students may complete work placements or volunteering hours. We support each student in finding the right opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience.


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