The success that Palmer’s College enjoys is based on a partnership between students and staff that creates the friendly, vibrant and hardworking atmosphere that is typical of life at the College.

The 2000 students at Palmer’s College are aged 16-19 years and following a one, two or three year full-time course. About two-thirds of our students come from the Thurrock area while the others come from Basildon, Brentwood, Billericay, Wickford, Rainham and beyond. Most years we have students from over 70 different schools. This means that there are many opportunities to meet and work with a wide circle of fellow students and make new friendships as well as maintain those you established at school.  
The College, like your school, is a place of work and you are expected to attend regularly and punctually, and, since there are no lesson bells, arriving on time is your responsibility. All Palmer’s students are full-time and are in College every day. The College timetable runs from 9.00am to 4.15pm. However, there will be times each day when you are not timetabled for taught classes.

Most lessons are three one-hour sessions in the morning and two hour sessions in the afternoon with 2 breaks and 50 minutes for lunch. There are student social and dining areas which are open throughout the day, as well as the library for your use when you do not have lessons. We would expect that you set time aside on a regular basis for homework and follow-up to your classes.

Most main text books are provided. In general, day-to-day stationery materials are not provided for you and you will have to contribute towards specialist materials in some practical subjects, e.g. Art and Photography.

Transport is generally provided free to those students from Thurrock who live at least three miles from the College. An administrative fee of £180 per year will be charged for the use of College funded transport for students living outside of Thurrock.  The College has execellent car parking facilities should you want to drive in.

When you join Palmer's College, we want to make sure that you get as much support as possible to ensure you are successful. So, every student joins a Tutor Group (TG) made up of both first and second year students. They will come from various schools and will be studying a variety of subjects. Each Tutor Group has a student who is nominated as the TG Representative. With their help and that of your tutor, you will soon find your way around College and settle into student life. You’ll see your tutor every day and once a week there is a Group Tutorial where you’ll explore important issues related to student life. Every TG is also allocated a Senior Pastoral Manager to give you extra support when needed.

Student Services facilities are excellent at Palmer's College - the College has counsellors, a medical officer, a fantastic Study Plus Centre, Careers Centre, Library and Resource Centre, EMA officer, access to a superb Sports and Fitness Centre and much more.