Information for Under 18s

South and City College Birmingham is one of biggest of colleges in the UK with 8 campuses located in Birmingham providing education for 16-18 years old and Adults aged 19+ for both home and international learners. Students between the ages of 16 and 18 can study with us on English language and vocational courses but we do not accept students under the age of 16.

In UK law, all students under the age of 18 are classed as children. Therefore, students who are 16-18 years old must follow an additional set of rules to ensure their safety and wellbeing during the time they spend with us. These rules are detailed below.

Students will be in an adult environment inside and outside classes. That is to say that the majority of the students in classes are adults and parents and guardians of 16-18 year olds should be aware of this.

All of our staff at South and City College are enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Services) checked and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students under the age of 18. All staff and volunteers share this commitment.

All students under the age of 18 must stay in accommodation that is booked through South and City College for the full length of their course.  This is either in homestay accommodation with our own host families or with our partner provider Hosts International or in campus accommodation. Students placed in homestay accommodation must return to their homestay at designated times in the evening. Students under the age of 18 cannot stay unsupervised in a hotel or guest house. The only exceptions to this would be if the student’s parents or guardians provide suitable accommodation or if the student is living with a member of their family. 

These arrangements need to be confirmed in writing and authorised by the college International office.

All students under the age of 18 are issued with a 24-hour emergency contact number

The emergency contact number for international students is 07960 619 600.

These numbers are also made available to students’ parents or guardians. Students need to provide the International office with next of kin details and a 24-hour contact number for their parents or guardians or for a nominated representative based in the UK.

The student’s parents or guardians are required to sign consent forms and a parental declaration form and inform International office of any medical conditions affecting the student. Please contact the international team for further information and guidance.

If you’re under 18 you’ll need written consent from both parents or legal guardians (or one parent if they have sole responsibility).

This must include their consent for:

• your visa application
• your living and care arrangements in the UK
• your travel to the UK

You’ll also need to provide a copy of your birth certificate (or another government issued document) that shows the names of your parents.

Please see our parental consent form below:

16-17 Consent form

Click link to see further https://www.gov.uk/student-visa

The college provides a safe learning environment and premises with first aid trained staff, fire safety precautions, CCTV cameras and website restriction filters. Student Services staff are available to offer support and discuss any issues that students may encounter while they are studying with us.

Attendance in classes is strictly monitored by the teachers and Heads of School. In the event of absence, the student’s parents, guardians or nominated representative will be contacted within the first hour of the absence. The student’s parents, guardians or nominated representative must inform the International office about any planned absences beforehand.

Additional Documents required:

• Passport
• TB Certificate
• Birth Certificate
• Parents’ Consent Form

SCCB Safeguarding 2023/24