At King's College London, we're committed to providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for every student. We recognise that starting university is a significant step, and we're particularly mindful of the transition for students under 18.

The University treats all its students, regardless of age, as independent, mature individuals. Students and their parents/guardians should understand that as the majority of students studying at the University are over 18, it is an adult learning environment.

In England, individuals aged 16 and 17 are legally classified as 'young people', a category of child under English law, with parental responsibility extending until age 18. King's College London provides additional support for all under-18 students.

However, while parents/guardians retain parental responsibility until their child's 18th birthday, the University does not act in loco parentis. This means the University will not assume any parental role.

This guide outlines the key support structures we offer to students under 18 at King's, designed to help them thrive in their new environment.

Your young person’s wellbeing at King's: Accuracy is key

Accurate information is essential to ensure we can provide the right support for students throughout their time with us.

We also want to make the application and enrolment process as smooth as possible. Accurate information plays a vital role in this, enabling us to support students effectively from the outset.

Agreement to study (ATS) form: Important information for under-18 students

For students under 18, the accuracy of the ATS form is particularly crucial. This form requires specific details about your young person's living arrangements while studying at King's. Please note that they are required to live in either

• KCL halls of residence (not private halls) or
• With a parent/guardian

The ATS form also clearly outlines that parents/guardians retain parental responsibility and the University will not act in loco parentis. This means the University will not act in any parental capacity towards your young person.

It's important to be aware that inaccurate or missing information could, unfortunately, lead to withdrawal from the course (please see our Academic Regulations 8.44 for full details). We encourage you to double-check all information before submitting it.

If you need to update any information on the ATS form, you can contact your Admissions Team using the King's Apply messaging service.

We offer a range of comprehensive support processes to ensure our younger students thrive during their time at King's:

Admissions

Supporting your young person’s journey at King's is our priority. Before they enrol, we kindly ask that you, as their parent/guardian, complete and return the Agreement to Study (ATS) form.

This document provides essential information regarding accommodation arrangements for students under 18. It also clarifies that you maintain legal responsibility for your young person until they reach 18 years of age. Your young person has two accommodation options: King's halls of residence only (excluding private halls) or residing with a parent/guardian. Please specify their choice on the form provided

Returning the ATS form promptly is essential, as without it, we unfortunately won't be able to proceed with their enrolment.

Accommodation

For under-18 students, we know that living in halls or with a parent/guardian can provide vital support. Our halls of residence offer a ready-made community and on-site pastoral support, while guardians offer personalised guidance. Both options ensure access to assistance and promote well-being, helping students thrive academically and personally.

It is mandatory that your young person is living in either

• KCL halls of residence or
• With a parent/legal guardian

If a student does not reside in the accommodation indicated on their ATS form, the University will investigate, which may result in disciplinary action, including potential withdrawal from their course.

King's dedicated FWAs provide extra support to students under 18. They'll meet with students, be a point of contact, and conduct regular check-ins until the student turns 18. These check-ins are important, and if a student misses one and doesn't respond to a follow-up email, parents/guardians may be contacted as part of our safeguarding procedures.

Personal Tutors

To ensure a strong start, students under 18 are required to meet with their Personal Tutor at least once before the end of October in their first semester. This initial meeting is a valuable opportunity to discuss academic goals, explore resources, and establish a supportive relationship. This meeting is important, and if a student misses it and doesn't respond to a follow-up email, parents/guardians may be contacted as part of our safeguarding procedures.

Well-being check-ins

We also have systems in place to identify students who may be struggling. If a student fails to access KEATS (our learning platform), or to attend campus for two weeks, this triggers a well-being check-in. If the student doesn't respond within 48 hours, a safeguarding protocol will be initiated. This may result in a call to the student's parent/guardian. 

As your young person is under 18, it's important to be aware of UK legal restrictions that apply to them. While they'll be enjoying the independence of university life, they are still legally considered a child. We want to ensure both you and your young person are prepared for this transition.

This means there are certain things they cannot do, such as purchasing alcohol, cigarettes, or other age-restricted products. It's also worth noting that some licensed premises may have age restrictions, and your young person may encounter situations where they are asked for proof of age.

We encourage you to have an open conversation with your young person about these legal considerations before they arrive at King's. Discussing these topics beforehand can help them navigate these situations confidently and responsibly.

Even after students turn 18, they can still benefit from regular meetings with their Personal Tutor and access a wide range of support services from Student Support Services