Havant and South Downs College

Further education, A-levels and vocational training

Havant and South Downs College is the principal provider of further education in the Havant borough, offering A-levels, BTECs, T-levels, apprenticeships and adult learning programmes across campuses in Havant and Waterlooville. The college was formed from the merger of Havant College and South Downs College, bringing together two established institutions to serve the wider area.

The Havant campus, located on New Road close to the town centre, provides a range of courses for sixteen-to-eighteen-year-olds and for adult learners. A-level provision covers a broad spread of subjects, and the college has a track record of preparing students for university entry. BTEC and vocational courses are available in areas including business, health and social care, engineering, computing, sport, media and the creative arts.

T-levels, the newer vocational qualifications designed to sit alongside A-levels, are being introduced progressively. These combine classroom learning with a substantial industry placement, giving students practical experience alongside their studies. The college's location in an area with significant employers, including those in construction, health, logistics and technology, supports the placement element.

Apprenticeships are another key part of the college's offer, providing a route into skilled employment for young people who prefer to earn while they learn. The college works with local employers to deliver apprenticeship programmes across a range of sectors.

Adult learning provision includes courses for career changers, those returning to education, and residents seeking new skills or qualifications. English, maths and digital skills courses are available for adults who need to build their basic skills. The college also offers higher education courses, including foundation degrees and higher national certificates, in partnership with universities.

Student support services include careers guidance, financial advice, learning support for students with additional needs, and wellbeing services. The college aims to provide a supportive environment for all learners, recognising that students arrive with a wide range of backgrounds, abilities and ambitions.

The college is an important institution in the life of Havant, providing education and training that feeds directly into the local and regional economy. Employers in the area recruit from the college's graduates and apprentices, and the institution plays a role in addressing skills shortages and supporting economic development.

Student support services include careers guidance, financial advice, learning support for students with additional needs, and wellbeing services. The college aims to provide a supportive environment for all learners, recognising that students arrive with a wide range of backgrounds, abilities and ambitions. The college is an important institution in the life of Havant, providing education and training that feeds directly into the local and regional economy. Employers in the area recruit from the college's graduates and apprentices, and the institution plays a role in addressing skills shortages and supporting economic development. For young people in Havant, the college represents a pathway to employment, higher education and a future built on qualifications and skills.