SwindonCollege

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2015/16

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Dates for your Diary 4Vision and Values 5Student Agreement 6College Code of Conduct 7You and your Tutor 8Absence 9Student Engagement Team 10Student Reps 11Safeguarding 12Star Student Awards 13ID Badges 14The Zones 15

The Chill Zone 16Learning Resource Centre 17Duke of Edinburgh Award 18Counselling 19Get Active! 20Hair, Beauty & The Restaurant 21Student Services & Finance 22Careers Centre 23Additional learning Support 24Equality and Diversity 25Chaplaincy 25

CONTENTS

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SwindonCollege

Welcome to Swindon College. We are delighted you are joining us and we wish you every success on your course. The college is a great place to study with outstanding teachers and fantastic resources.

This guide is packed with information to help you during your first days at College. It is also useful to refer to throughout the year for contact numbers, key dates and opening times.

Coming to college is not just about qualifications, it is also about gaining confidence in yourself and developing a range of skills that will help you get the job you want, build a career,start your own business or progress to a higher level course.

Good luck with your studies!

INTRODUCTION

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COLLEGE CALENDAR 2015/16TERM 1Full-Time FE classes start (Yr. 1) Tuesday 1st and Wednesday 2nd September 2015Freshers’ Fair Wednesday 2nd September 2015HE First Years start Monday 7th September 2015New Starters Parent’s Event Tuesday 15th and Wednesday 16th September 2015Apprenticeship/Employer Awards evening Thursday 17th September 2015HE Enrolment Day Thursday 10th September 2015Moving On Progression Event Wednesday 23rd September 2015HE Finance evening Wednesday 30th September 2015Graduation Ceremony Friday 9th October 2015FE/ HE Open Evening Thursday 15th October 2015Term 1 ends Thursday 22nd October 2015BREAK Monday 26th October-Friday 30th October 2015

TERM 2Term 2 starts Monday 2nd November 2015FE / HE Open Event Saturday 28th November 2015Internal UCAS Applications Tuesday 1st December 2015Term 2 ends Friday 18th December 2015BREAK (COLLEGE CLOSED) Monday 21st December 2015 - Friday 2nd January 2016

TERM 3Term 3 starts Monday 4th January 2016FE/HE Open Evening Wednesday 20thJanuary 2016What Next Progression Event Wednesday 10th February 2016Term 3 ends Friday 12th February 2016BREAK Monday 15th February - Friday 19th February 2016

TERM 4Term 4 starts Monday 22nd February 2016HE Reading Week Monday 22nd February – Friday 26th February 2016Laying Foundations Progression Event Wednesday 16th March 2016Term 4 ends Thursday 24th March 2016Good Friday (College closed) Friday 25th March 2016Easter Monday (College closed) Monday 28th March 2016BREAK Tuesday 29th March – 8th April 2016

TERM 5Term 5 starts Monday 11th April 2016FE / HE Open Evening Thursday 21st April 2016May Day (College Closed) Monday 2nd May 2016Part Time Pre-16 (Year 10) Parents/Guardian Evening Tuesday 10th May 2016FE / HE Open Event Saturday 14th May 2016Term 5 ends Thursday 26th May 2016Staff Development Day Friday 27th May 2016HE Term ends (Year 1) Friday 27th May 2016Spring Bank Holiday (College Closed) Monday 30th May 2016BREAK Tuesday 31st May – Friday 3rd June 2016

TERM 6Term 6 starts Monday 6th June 2016HE Term ends (Year 2 and 3) Friday 10th June 2016FE Awards Ceremony Thursday 16th June 2016Term 6 ends (FE) Friday 8th July 2016

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‘We will be ambitious for all our learners, inspiring and supporting them to achieve qualifications and skills for further study or employment. Outstanding teaching and learning is at the heart of what we do and we will be recognised for this’.

OUR VISION

VALUES● Creating a learner-centred environment ● Exceeding expectations ● Valuing and respecting everyone ● Collaborating with our local community and employers ● Being flexible, innovative and forward thinking.

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If you don’t meet these responsibilities you could beinvolved in disciplinary meetings. Minor breaches should be resolved quickly by your tutor. Seriousmisconduct will be dealt with in a formal hearing.

Sometimes we get it wrong and if we do, we will ensure to make every effort to get it right for you. We take all comments and feedback seriously.

If you have a complaint...> First talk to your tutor or lecturer

> If you need more help please speak to Student Services or the Student Engagement Team

AGREEMENTWE EXPECT...ATTENDANCENo unauthorised absences PUNCTUALITYTo attend all lessons BEHAVIOURAppropriate behaviour whichshows respect for others andsupports learning COMMITMENTCompletion of work andmaking positive contributionsto the College.

STUDENT

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If you don’t meet these responsibilities you could beinvolved in disciplinary meetings. Minor breaches should be resolved quickly by your tutor. Seriousmisconduct will be dealt with in a formal hearing.

Sometimes we get it wrong and if we do, we will ensure to make every effort to get it right for you. We take all comments and feedback seriously.

If you have a complaint...> First talk to your tutor or lecturer

> If you need more help please speak to Student Services or the Student Engagement Team

SwindonCollege

As a Swindon College student, you should treat everyoneequally and behave towards other people with responsibility, sensitivity, courtesy and compassion.

You can find all the college policies and procedures on:

www.moodle.swindon-college.ac.uk

CODE OF CONDUCTSTUDENT

WE EXPECT...● No unauthorised absences

● Commitment

● Punctuality

● Willingness to learn

● Ability to meet targets and deadlines

● Determination to gain success

● Sensible behaviour

● Consideration and courtesy

● Full payment of any fees charged.

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Whilst you are at College your personal tutormonitors your progress and general welfare

You will work with your tutor on a 1:1 basis. The purpose of these 1:1’s is to review your progress and to ensure that targets you have set through My PDP have either been achieved or you are on track to achieve them. If you have been unable to achieve your targets, then extra support will be discussed with you.

My PDP (Personal Development Plan)This is a vital tool for your everyday use at Swindon College. Itallows you to take responsibility for your own learning through thesetting of realistic targets that will support you throughout yourcourse. Through My PDP you will be able to view your reportswhich will enable you to reflect on your progress. You can also check your timetable, personal details, attendance and punctuality.

YOU AND YOUR TUTORAlongside traditional methods of teaching the college provides e-learning for its students.

At the centre of our strategy is moodlewww. moodle.swindon.ac.uk which allows students toaccess their course material online at any time.

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Students are required to attend every class unless they are ill or there is some other absolutely unavoidable reason.

If you are unwell or unable to attend college, please let us know.You will be given a contact number for your curriculum area.

If you are calling the college main number, please let us know you are reporting your absence and supply your name, ID number, tutor’s name, what classes you are missing and why.

Students should not arrange routine appointments such as: doctor, dentist or driving lessons when attending classes andholidays must not be taken during term time.

As you would expect, there is a very strong link between highattendance and succeeding in terms of completingyour course and the grade you are likely to achieve.

ABSENCE LATE CARDYou will need to collect a late card if you are late to college.

This is located in the Student Support Office (in the Avenue, Phoenix building).

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The Student Engagement Team is based in the Student Support Office, in the Avenue, Phoenix building.

THE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT TEAM

Headed up by Team leader Dean Parsons, the Student Engagement Team are here to help support you.

They have several roles including making sure that you have a personal tutor (who helps you action plan your work as well as working 1:1 with many students).

They also work closely with other areas of student support such as: Student Finance, Careers,Counselling and the Chill Zone.

Dean Tanya

Jason Jason Bobby

Mark

Vicky

The Student Engagement Team is based in the Student Support Office, in the Avenue, Phoenix building.

SwindonCollege

This is your chance to be actively involved in influencingthings going on in the college and to ensure the quality of your course remains high and consistent.

Contact your Tutor for further information.

DON’T JUST WANT CHANGE... MAKE CHANGE!

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...have your say!

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Staying Safe is everyone’s business...Are you worried about something that is happening to you or someone you know IN or OUT of college?

You can ask for help from: Your Tutor/Lecturer or any other staff member.

Other places to get help:Student Engagement Office, Chill Zone Centre, Security Guards via Reception and Student Services.

Together we are keeping Swindon College safe!

SAFEGUARDING Police: 0845 408 7000 or 101

Samaritans: 537373 (local) 08457909090

Beat bullying: www.beatbullying.org

Childline: 0800 1111 www.childline .org.uk

Internet Security: www.ceop.gov.uk

Victim Support Group: 01380 729476

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Police: 0845 408 7000 or 101

Samaritans: 537373 (local) 08457909090

Beat bullying: www.beatbullying.org

Childline: 0800 1111 www.childline .org.uk

Internet Security: www.ceop.gov.uk

Victim Support Group: 01380 729476

SwindonCollege

Made real progress?Done something extra?Attended well and worked hard?Each term the College holds the Star Students Awards and you could be awarded up to £100!

You need to be nominated for a Swindon College Star Award by your tutor and a judging panel will make the final decisions.

You could be awarded up to £100! - ask your Tutor for further details!

STAR STUDENTAWARDS

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Full time students and staff must keep ID badges on their person at all times.

Part time students must carry their receipt card with them at all times.

‘Let ’s be secure and be safe!’

FOR SAFETY REASONS...

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‘Great space for studying’THE ZONES is a social learning space which is available to all students and has space to use computers and your own laptops in a relaxed, fresh and modern environment.

Space can be booked out for groups of students or you can just drop in on your own or with friends to catch up on studying, prepare presentations or do some research.

There will usually be staff on hand to help and offer support and regularly advertised ‘learning technology’ sessions will run throughout the year, giving you plenty of opportunities to learn something new.

Yellow Zone is located on Floor 3 in the Pegasus Building. Blue Zone is located in the Engineering/Corvus Building.

RELAXEDFRESH

MODERN ENVIRONMENT

SwindonCollege

� Bookable computer & laptop stations � Macs� Pool Tables � Group PC collaborative areas� Relaxed seating area for a more comfortable working space.

Visit www.moodle.swindon-college.ac.ukfor more information.

Includes:Yellow Zone

Blue Zone

Swindon College Chill Zone is a great place for you to meet with your friends and relax between lessons

You will also be able to access a large variety of different activities that will help you to be more appealing to employers.

Next time you are free why not come down and check out the Chill Zone.

The centre is staffed by friendly and experienced youth workers, who are always available for an informal chat.

Visit www.swindonunion.com/chill-zone/ for more information.

� Table Tennis � Table Football� Pool Tables � Xbox/PS3/Wii - with Gaming Projectors� Computers with internet access� Live TV� Music� Ipads for use in Tutorials� Board Games� Team Challenges.

The Chill Zone is located in the Orion building - open to all students at lunchtimes and free periods during term time

GET INVOLVED RELAX

SOCIALISE

Activities include:

SwindonCollege

SwindonCollege

In the Learning Resource Centre we hold a variety of printed and electronic resources for all areas of study.

Our mission is to enable all studentsto be confident and independent users of the LRC resources. We will support learning needs by providing access to appropriate information and services in order to prepare all learners to progress to a higher level or enter the workplace.

Visit www.moodle.swindon-college.ac.ukfor more information.

The Learning Resource Centre (LRC) is located on the first floor of the Phoenix building

SUPPORT QUIET STUDY SPACE

SwindonCollege

RESOURCESLRCLearning Resource Centre

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Duke of Edinburgh Award Information Evening - for students and parents

Wednesday 9th September 2015, 5-6pm Location: Swindon College Chill Zone

The Duke of Edinburgh Award gives all young people aged 14-24 the chance to develop skills for life and work, fulfil their potential and have a brighter future.

For more information please contact the Chill Zone Team

The Duke of Edinburgh Award gives all young people aged 14-24 the chance to develop skills for life and work, fulfil their potential and have a brighter future.

SwindonCollege

PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING FOR STUDENTS

Appointments can be made to suit youPlease complete a referral form which can be found on the ground

floor in the Phoenix and Pegasus buildings.

Available Wednesdays and Thursdays

Here for you...

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Get InvolvedBe More Active!Contact the Student Engagement Team for more information or email josefthomas@swindon.ac.uk

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SwindonCollege

To book an appointment call:

(01793) 498276

To book an appointment call:

(01793) 498210To make a booking call:

07943526068

Unisex Treatments

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They are here to give you advice and guidance on:• Applications for courses• Financial, child care and travel information• Support with all aspects of your welfare as a student• Appointments for Career Advice and Counselling.

During College term time Student Services & Finance are open:Monday-Thursday 8.45am-7.15pm Friday 8.45am-4.30pm.During College holiday periods:Monday to Friday 8.45am-4.30pm.

STUDENT SERVICES & FINANCE

The Student Service and Finance Office is based in the entrance of the Phoenix building. For more information telephone: (01793) 491591 or email studentservices@swindon.ac.uk

To receive ‘Financial Support Payments’ you need to maintain high levels ofATTENDANCE, PUNCTUALITYand MOTIVATION!

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CAREERS CENTRE If you would like to talk about your career options or going on to university-level study, you can make an appointment to see one of our Advisors through Reception or Student Services.

We can help you with:� Career Planning and options� CVs� Job Hunting� Higher Education applications� Employability Skills

We are located opposite the Reception in the Phoenix building.

For more information email careers@swindon.ac.ukor Tweet us on @sc_careers

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ADDITIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT Swindon College has an Additional Learning Support team thatcan provide advice and support for learners with learningdifficulties/disabilities during their transition into college and/orwhile they are at college, both in and out of the classroom.Support packages are planned with learners, meeting individual needs.

Support is delivered by a variety of roles including:• Student Support workers • Academic Support tutors• Support Advisors/Mentors • Communication Support workers• Dyslexia specialists/Assessors • Medical professionals.

Please contact your tutor if you require further information aboutthe Additional Learning Support Service.

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The Prayer and Peace room is open to everyone and is a space whereyou can pray, reflect or just spend some quiet time. Located on the ground floor of the Pegasus Building.

The Chaplaincy team are currently seeking others from different faiths to join their team. If you would like to join them or know of someone who would please get in touch with the Student Enagement Team.

CHAPLAINCY

EQUALITY & DIVERSITYSwindon College actively advances Equality of Opportunity (everyone should be treated fairly) and is committed to eliminating discrimination, harassment and victimisation in any form. The Act covers nine protected characteristics, which cannot be used as a reason to treat people unfairly.

The Equality Act 2010 is the law which bans unfair treatment and helpsachieve equal opportunities in the workplace and in wider society.

They protected characteristics are: � Age � Disability � Gender reassignment� Marriage and civil partnership � Pregnancy and maternity � Race� Religion or belief � Sex � Sexual orientation 25