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.  

Like school, College is a place of work and you are expected to attend regularly and punctually, and, since there are no 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 4.00pm, with a 3.30pm finish on Wednesdays. However, there will be times of the 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 1 morning break and 60 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.

Student Services facilities are excellent at Palmer's College - the College has highly experienced counsellors, a brand new Study Plus Centre, an award-winning Careers Centre, Library and Resource Centre, renovated during the summer of 2011, newly refurbished social spaces, access to a superb Sports and Fitness Centre and much much more.

I like how Palmer's is so different from school. As a student, you now have to take responsibility for your future.

Ross Harris, A-levels