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Quality Handbook supplement 13B - Application process for further education courses

Find guidance for Further Education course applications, outlining how to apply, submission requirements, transparent assessment against entry criteria, post-application open days, conditional offers and enrolment instructions.

Latest version as of September 2026.

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1. How to apply

1.1 To apply for a Further Education (FE) course, prospective applicants need to complete the University’s FE application form.

1.2 For NTU staff to assess an application form, prospective applicants will need to ensure that:

  1. all qualifications, together with grades or predicted grades, are included;
  2. two references are submitted – one from their last educational establishment attended (if the applicant has not been in education for the last three years they should provide an alternative reference); the second should be from an employer, a leader of a club or society that the applicant has been a member of or an instructor of any leisure activities undertaken by the applicant;
  3. general information within the form should include the applicant’s personal details, and their career aspirations, hobbies and interests.

2. Process

2.1 Applications are assessed on an individual basis against transparent entry requirements which are provided for each course in the FE Prospectus and on the NTU Website.

These are agreed annually. Occasionally, the University may request further information to help aid the decision-making process.

2.2 Successful applicants will be invited to attend a post-application open day. These are usually conducted on a group basis and will include:

  1. a tour of the facilities;
  2. a course overview;
  3. advice and guidance with the course leader;
  4. applicants who apply for the equine course will also be required to undertake and pass a riding assessment and will need to have a riding hat that meets one of the following safety standards: BSI kite mark (PAS 015; 1998 or 2011), SNELL E2001 or has the SEI Global symbol; together with a body protector that conforms to BETA 2009 Level 3 (purple label);
  5. an outline of any clothing and/or equipment required to participate on the course (e.g. overalls, steel-toe-capped boots, riding equipment, etc).

2.3 Following consideration of the applications, applicants will be notified of the decision in writing. NTU is committed to providing unsuccessful applicants with constructive feedback.

2.4 Applicants may be subject to one or more conditions, including but not limited to:

  1. examination grades;
  2. references;
  3. gaining relevant skills and experience;
  4. a practice assignment;
  5. parental permission for those under 18 years old on the 1st September of the year of entry.

2.5 A formal place on the course will be made in writing when all the conditions of the offer have been met.

2.6 A set of joining instructions – individually tailored to each course (including any clothing and equipment requirements) – together with enrolment details will be sent before starting the course.

2.7 The FE Admissions team will:

  1. aim to provide clear, consistent and accurate information;
  2. endeavour to respond quickly to applicant questions (although at busy times in the cycle, there may be delays);
  3. treat all applications fairly, and review information provided consistently;
  4. safeguard all personal information provided in compliance with the requirements of the Data Protection Act and Freedom of Information Act.

Change History

Approval Date:

11.01.21

Nature of Revisions:

Renumbered as 13B (formerly 13C).

Implementation Date:

11.01.21

Approval Date:

01.09.26

Nature of Revisions:

None

Implementation Date:

01.09.26