Skip to content

COLLEGE OF SANCTUARY FOR REFUGEES & ASYLUM SEEKERS

Study at Brighton MET

Students are welcome and entitled to apply for any course offered at Brighton MET College. However, many students from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds begin their educational journey by enrolling in English language provision, such as English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), sometimes also referred to as English as an Additional Language (EAL).

These courses provide essential support in developing English language skills, building confidence, and enabling students to fully engage in academic study, wider college life and their local community.

To help every student succeed and feel confident in their learning, anyone wishing to join or move on to a Level 1 course vocational will need at least Entry 3-level speaking and writing skills. Some courses may require Level 1 ESOL. If a student is new to the college and does not yet have ESOL qualifications, they will take a short ESOL assessment. This helps us make sure the course is the right fit and that we can provide the support they need to achieve their goals.

Asylum Seeking and Refugee Community

At Brighton MET College, we are proud to play an active and supportive role within our diverse local community, including individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds. We are committed to providing inclusive, accessible educational opportunities that enable all students to develop their skills, confidence, and sense of belonging. Our college environment is built on the principles of respect, equality, and empowerment, ensuring that every student feels valued and supported throughout their learning journey.

We strive to create a learning environment that not only supports educational achievement but also promotes personal growth, social inclusion, and the confidence students need to participate fully in college life and the wider community.

A picture of Pelham Courtyard, with students walking about

“I have friends who go to other colleges. I have had a better experience. They left their college early. Not me, I’ve been able to do a lot of things. College push me to study better, everyone wants me to do well. I like math’s better now, they understand I need Functional Skills. If I have had any problems, I’ve had a person to go to who helps. They helped with my social worker, my situation, everything. There has been help with life outside of college too. When I came to the UK and to college I could email and text which helped me to speak to my college help. I explain to people from home, MET College is where they need to go”

HT Student from 2021-Present

Financial Support Whilst Study at Brighton MET

We believe that financial constraints alone should never be enough to prevent a student from studying and so we will work with you to find out what support you may be entitled to and help you to access any funding available.

Unemployed and low wage workers

Frequently Asked Questions

BRIGHTON MET COLLEGE PLEDGES TO BECOME A COLLEGE OF SANCTUARY

Brighton MET College marked Refugee Week 2025 by pledging to support the FE Colleges of Sanctuary Charter, reinforcing its commitment to becoming a recognised college of sanctuary.

Brighton MET offers a range of tailored services for people seeking sanctuary, including:

  • ESOL (English for Speakers or Other Languages) Programmes
  • Personal Development courses designed to build confidence and skills
  • A dedicated student services role offering holistic, specialist support
  • Initiatives to broaden access to higher education and support long-term educational progression

 

Image of a man and a woman smiling in an office room, sat behind a laptop and in front of a bookshelf

PROGRESSION+ TEAM

The College’s Progression Plus Service provides current and potential students with independent, impartial information, advice and guidance in all areas related to careers and employability.

Our team of qualified Careers Advisers are available to provide you with impartial advice and guidance to support your aspirations explore the opportunities that are available to you and to help you plan your next steps after you complete your course. Our aim is to help you assess your own skills, values and interests, and match these interests into a career plan.

The Progression+ team includes experts in admissions, careers, higher education, work experience and apprenticeships who offer advice and guidance. They can help with all aspects of careers and progression which includes applying for courses, interview tips, CV writing, application forms, job and apprenticeship searches and gap year opportunities.

The team can help you to plan and progress onto work-based learning, employment or higher education. They can also help you to apply to UCAS, writing personal statements and providing information on student finance. They are able to assist with visits to local universities and open days and arrange careers related events in conjunction with faculties.

For more information about the Progression+ team, including opening hours and contact details, please visit the Progression+ team page on CCG Online.

One-to-one appointment slots are available to book at both campuses by contacting the team on 01273 667780 or emailing careers@gbmc.ac.uk

Matt Wright
Director of Pastoral Support
Alex Bellamy
Pastoral Support Manager

;