Study Skills

Sometimes students need somewhere to turn to for academic guidance, support and advice, or even just to ensure that your transition to college education is as smooth and care-free as possible. Throughout your time at the College, dedicated and supportive experts are available to ensure you meet your potential.

Students are seen individually to discuss particular needs and to agree a support programme with clearly defined targets. Additional support may also be provided in class.

The types of support that may be provided include:

  • Essay writing
  • Planning and organisation of assignments
  • Time management
  • Reading and comprehension
  • Grammar
  • Spelling
  • Punctuation
  • Sentence structure
  • Extending vocabulary
  • Handwriting
  • Note taking
  • Maths skills
  • Revision and exam techniques
  • Memory skills
  • Managing exam stress
  • CVs
  • Letters of application
  • Application forms for Employment or Further and higher education (UCAS)

Students can have access to study packs, skills sheets and specialist software packages.

Dyslexia - the support you deserve

Specialist support is available to all students. Our dyslexia support tutors who can arrange diagnostic assessments for dyslexia and can offer you:

  • Structured spelling and literacy strategies
  • Creative and visual approaches to planning and problem solving
  • Specialist assessment
  • Ongoing support with course work and examination techniques
  • Guidance and counselling
  • Strategies for improving reading, comprehension and note-taking
  • One-to-one and small-group work


Examination concessions are organised where necessary and we can arrange for you to have extra time and a scribe or reader if needed.

Skills taught are as for other students but with emphasis on strategies for dyslexics and incorporating your learning styles and strengths as well as using suitable resources.

We also offer ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) support for students whose first language is not English. Students can be offered help on a one to one basis to with studies.

Why Totton?

Diana Gatova

Diana Gatova - Bulgaria

Studying: A2 Accounting, Information Technology, Mathematics

When I first came to Totton College I could barely speak English. By the time I left I had three A-Levels.

I found that the teachers are dedicated and the students' needs come first. There is always someone ready to help and I have found the courses much easier mainly due to the excellent staff and all their support.

I am grateful to the staff for the help they gave me in achieving such a good result.