STOCKTON RIVERSIDE COLLEGE
PARENTS & GUARDIANS
WELCOME
Hello and welcome to Stockton Riverside College!
Here you will find all the information you need to help support your young person in their transition into further education. We are sure you have already heard of the fantastic facilities our college has to offer and are aware of our team of dedicated teaching staff, however, you may still have questions and that’s why we have created this handy guide.
And if you need any additional information, please get in touch via our website at www.stockton.ac.uk or by contacting our Student Recruitment Team on 01642 865 550.
The Education Training Collective (Etc.) is a group of vibrant colleges and training providers offering high quality educational opportunities.
Incorporating Bede Sixth Form College, NETA Training, Redcar and Cleveland College, Stockton Riverside College and The Skills Academy, the Etc. delivers
a full range of courses, training and apprenticeship opportunities to learners aged 14 to adult, as well as professional and commercial courses.
We aim to create greater opportunities for all of our students and communities by equipping people with the skills to help them in to employment, raise aspirations and meet the economic demands of the region.
All the information in this guide is correct at the time of going to print. We reserve the right to make any necessary changes or withdraw courses.
ABOUT US
At Stockton Riverside College we offer a wide range of vocational courses, apprenticeships and T Levels that will give your young person the skills and knowledge they need to progress in their chosen career.
A combination of theory based and practical work will prepare them for whichever progression route they decide to take, whether this be higher education or employment.
Hair/Beauty Salon
APPRENTICESHIPS
If students feel ready to start work then an apprenticeship could be the right move for them. They will learn on the job, gain a qualification and earn a wage. We work with employers from a wide variety of industries who offer apprenticeship vacancies, so we can help students find the right opportunity for them.
WHAT WILL THEY DO?
We can discuss which of the available vacancies would suit students best and help guide students through the application process. If successful, students will start work and learn the skills of the job. On some apprenticeships, they will spend one day a week at the College. Apprenticeships last between one and five years.
IS IT RIGHT FOR THEM?
If students are looking to start work straight away and prefer hands on learning in a working environment, then an apprenticeship could be the route for them. They will gain work experience in an industry setting, whilst earning a qualification which can be used for UCAS points, should they wish to consider university in the future. Alternatively students can use the relevant industry experience they have gained throughout their apprenticeship to find work in their chosen area.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Entry requirements vary depending on the apprenticeship but as a minimum, students must:
• Be at least 16
• Be a UK resident
• Be employed to complete an apprenticeship
Students will study functional skills in English and maths if they haven’t already achieved grade 9-4 at GCSE level. The grades they need may vary depending on what level of apprenticeship they want to study. In some cases, they will study ICT as part of their apprenticeship framework.
EVERYTHING THEY NEED TO KNOW
The way apprenticeships work has changed and they now include an end point assessment. This assessment may include a professional discussion with an external assessor, an apprenticeship showcase (similar to a portfolio), an observation in the student’s workplace or a practical demonstration. Their assessor will let students know which one applies to them.
To view our latest vacancies and for more information, click HERE to visit our website.
T LEVELS
A T Level is a two-year course, introduced by the government, primarily aimed at 16 to 19-year-old learners. The equivalent to three A levels, they are a level 3 technical option that combines classroombased learning with a strong element of on-the-job training through a 45day industry placement.
T Levels have been developed in select subject areas, alongside employers and businesses to ensure they meet industry needs. The courses are being rolled out gradually to colleges and providers.
The qualification is made up of two main parts, a technical qualification and an industry placement.
Technical qualification:
• Core content (knowledge and skills relevant to all occupations covered by the T Level).
• An occupational specialism (the knowledge and practical skills to enter employment in a particular occupation).
Industry placement:
Every T Level will include an industry placement with an employer, which will last a minimum of 315 hours (approximately 45 days) but can be longer.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A T LEVEL AND A LEVEL 3 VOCATIONAL COURSE
T Levels are the technical equivalent to three A levels. They will cover core theory, concepts and specialist skills and knowledge for a specific career or occupation. The main difference between the T Level and a level 3 course is the compulsory industry placement. This will last a minimum of 315 hours and makes up 20% of the course. Academically demanding, T Levels incorporate English, maths and digital content.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A T LEVEL AND AN APPRENTICESHIP
Apprenticeships are built for those who know what occupation they want to pursue and are ready to enter the world of work. They are typically made up of a combination of 80% on-the-job training and 20% in the classroom. T Levels have been developed in collaboration with employers and providers so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares students for work. T Levels are based on the same industrial standards as apprenticeships, created specifically by employers and approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.
To find out more about the T Levels being delivered at Stockton Riverside College please email: info@stockton.ac.uk or call: 01642 865 566 .
VOCATIONAL COURSES
Vocational courses are designed to help young people learn about a specific industry area in a hands-on and practical way – helping to build the essential skills needed to progress into a career or move onto higher education.
IS A VOCATIONAL COURSE THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR YOUR YOUNG PERSON?
Vocational courses are perfect if they enjoy practical learning and have a keen interest in a specific job role. Here at Stockton Riverside College we have a mixture of vocational subjects related to broad areas of employment such as business, IT, and health and social care, and vocational courses that lead to specific job roles such as hairdressing, professional cookery, and trade, such as joinery or bricklaying.
Your young person will be taught by our amazing team of expert tutors who each hold valuable industry experience in their areas. They’ll also learn in our state-ofthe-art facilities, such as our Margaret Armstrong Theatre, mock aircraft, and professional kitchens.
STUDENT PERKS!
GYM ACCESS
Grab a pass to the Durham University Sports Centre next door to our Stockton campus or check out the offers available at our Bede Sports Centre in Billingham.
STUDENT DISCOUNTS
Did you know that you can unlock fantastic savings through Totum, UniDays and Student Beans!
CAREERS ADVICE
Students
Completely free for students to use!
FREE TRAVEL*
Travelling to and from college couldn’t be easier, with bus routes available across Teesside.
Just another way to make life easier at college.
STATE OF THE ART FACILITIES
HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
Our health and social care wing is designed to provide learners with knowledge and skills in all areas of the subject. Equipped with a hospital ward, an elderly care zone and our very own ambulance bay, they will be able to channel their passion for health and social care into a career.
Thanks to our recent £2.8 million refurbishment our training facilities are better than ever before! Our state-of-the-art facilities offer a modern and comfortable environment for students to learn in. Not only will they benefit from developing your skills with the latest tools and equipment, but they will also get the teaching and learning experience to match!
EARLY YEARS
The early years and education department has a dedicated practice suite with facilities to support our learners development in a simulated real-life work environment!
Not only is it equipped with specialised early years resources and equipment to support their progress in practice, but it also includes an assisting teaching area which mirrors a real-life classroom.
HAIRDRESSING AND BEAUTY THERAPY
Our hair and beauty salons provide an exclusive commercial environment with a relaxing atmosphere for clients. Situated at the entrance of our main building with their own personal reception area, the salons are at the forefront of current trends in the industry and equipped with the latest tools and technologies!
Our students will get the chance to work in these incredible commercial-grade salons on real clients! Providing everything from creative colouring and cutting, electrical body and facial massage, laser hair removal, various nail treatments and more!
MOTOR VEHICLE
Our fully operational motor vehicle workshop is equipped with the latest tools and machinery. Students get to learn their trade working on cars with some of the latest kit in vehicle technology including, car lifts, dedicated bays and an electric car rig!
A GREAT PLACE TO LEARN
At Stockton Riverside College, we’re committed to delivering an exceptional education with our learners success in mind and we already have an incredible range of spaces that are designed to help them thrive. Check out some of the fantastic facilities we have to offer below, and you’ll see why we’re so proud of our campus. If your young person wants to experience our facilities first hand, don’t forget they can book a tour or attend one of our open events!
CED CENTRE
Students studying a trade such as joinery or bricklaying will get hands-on experience in our CED centre. With subject specific workshops and real industry kit, they will develop the skills of their chosen trade and be well on their way to a thriving career in the industry.
LEARNING RESOURCE CENTRE
Our Learning Resource Centre (LRC) is the place to go for all books, journals, computer access, laptop and iPad loans, and more! Visit our safe and friendly space to explore the extensive range of learning materials we have available to support learners in their studies.
MOCK AIRCRAFT
Reach new heights with our state-of-theart mock aircraft, equipped with everything from duty-free trolleys, to a live PA system and emergency life jackets. Our aviation students get to train in a facility that is tailored to suit the demands of future employment, while being taught and guided by industry experts.
LOOKING FOR A BITE TO EAT?
Choose from the Riverside Refectory, Café Vert, or check out what our catering and hospitality students are serving in the Waterfront Café!
CREATIVE MEDIA SUITES
Our creative media suites have all the equipment learners need to bring their ideas to life, both on screen and via virtual reality (VR). Our PCs have GTX 1060 graphics cards which are VR ready, so students can explore virtual realities using the Oculus Rift Headset. We also have Oculus Touch and we use industry standard software including: Autodesk Maya, Unreal Engine, Photoshop, and Wacom Graphics tablets, so they can do things like digital drawing and texturing, 3D modelling, and create games.
CAFÉ VERT
The smell of roasted coffee beans, a mouth-watering selection of baked goods and comfy coffee house seating awaits at Café Vert. It’s the perfect place to spend a break time catching up with friends. The café also offers a selection of sandwiches and salads over lunchtime.
BEDE (ISE) SPORTS CENTRE
The Bede Sports Centre is situated at our Bede Sixth Form College site in Billingham. It offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor fitness and sporting activities, as well as:
• A four-court sports hall
• A FIFA 1 standard FA registered, flood-lit Astro pitch
• A gym with a full range of fitness equipment
• A 10m climbing wall with cave feature
All of our students can access the Sports Centre facilities at reduced rates, and they also have access to gym facilities at the Durham sports centre next door to our campus.
STUDENT SUPPORT
We offer a wide range of services to ensure your young person always feels safe and supported during their time with us. If they need help, either in or outside of the classroom, they can just ask.
BUS TRAVEL
FREE1 Bus Pass for essential bus travel to the student’s campus during term time. Please note there is a £5 administration charge per term for students travelling by bus.
COURSE FEES
If students are under 19 at the start of their course there should be no fees to pay. If students are aged 19 or above speak to our Admissions Team about fees, repayment and student loan opportunities2.
STUDENT BURSARY
If students need support with travel, childcare, meals or equipment3, they will be invited to fill out a bursary application to determine if they are eligible to receive financial support during their studies at Stockton Riverside College.
STUDENT DISCOUNT
Students can also get a TOTUM card and sign up for online student discounts (such as UniDays and Student Beans) giving discounts on music, fashion, books, films and much more.
CAREERS SERVICE
Whether your child has chosen their future career or not, our highly qualified and experienced careers advisors can help them plan the route to their success. We will support them to make informed decisions about their future, help raise their aspirations and reach their full potential.
The college has Matrix Standard accreditation which confirms the outstanding, comprehensive advice and guidance delivered by the team.
Our careers advice is based on an embedded programme of careers education and guidance which meets the Gatsby Good Career Guidance Benchmarks. These benchmarks ensure students have access to quality careers guidance, together with work experience, encounters with employers and current labour market information. This in turn ensures they can make informed decisions about their future career plans. For more information on what services our careers team can offer please visit our website: www.stockton.ac.uk
SAFEGUARDING
Stockton Riverside College is committed to safeguarding our students, with this commitment demonstrated through our college values. We prioritise our students safety and wellbeing at all times, with safeguarding and welfare teams located within all of our college sites. We offer advice and support, ensuring that help is sought from external agencies, where needed.
We offer information, advice and guidance on a range of issues including:
• Mental health
• Managing relationships
• Housing
• Substance misuse
• Sexual health
• Benefits
• Internet safety
If learners should feel unsafe or that they need to access support, we are here to make sure they are heard and supported.
LEARNING SUPPORT
Our Learning Support Team are dedicated to making sure our learners receive the support they need. We can arrange a support interview and make sure the appropriate support is put in place. Our aim is to make sure our learners are respected and cared for as individuals and are encouraged and supported to reach their potential at all times. Learning Support services include support for students who are visually impaired, have a hearing impairment, those with mobility issues, dyslexia, autism or any learning or physical difficulty and/or disability.
EQUALITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
We value the diversity of our college community and promote inclusion for all. We make sure that all of our students receive the same provision and access to our services. We encourage a culture of respect and commit to tackling prejudice at all levels. By encouraging students and staff to share their own experiences, we aim to promote mutual understanding, tolerance and respect.
For more information on how Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are promoted across the College please visit our website: www.stockton.ac.uk/ collegelife/student-support-and-wellbeing/ safeguarding-and-welfare
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
The College has a team dedicated to student health and wellbeing. If our students need information or advice on anything from financial worries to bullying, sexual health or drug and alcohol misuse, our Welfare and Safeguarding Team are here to help.
ENGLISH AND MATHS
English and maths are crucial to your child’s academic development and are essential in the world of work.
If your child is under 19 when they start with us, there is a government requirement
to work towards a grade 4 in English and maths if they have not already achieved this in school.
Here at Stockton, we incorporate English and maths sessions into their main study programme, helping them achieve their English and maths qualification before progressing on to their next steps.
If they do not already have GCSE English and maths at a minimum of a grade 4, they will continue to work towards these qualifications as part of their main programme of study4.
4 Unless they are exempt. See condition of funding rules (Department for Education).
INDUSTRY READY
Students will participate in a range of different sessions to support them to become industry ready. Our aim is to provide students with not just the knowledge but also the skills and behaviours to be able to enter industry or go to university at the end of their course.
ENRICHMENT
We want our students to enjoy their time with us. That’s why, alongside their courses, students are given the opportunity to take part in a variety of enrichment activities, events and trips. Our enrichment programme includes a
great variety of events, activities, clubs and workshops which students can get involved in.
TUTORIALS
Regular tutorials are an essential part of our study programme. These sessions offer students the chance to catch up with their tutor about their individual learning plan which will review their progress and set new development targets. Also within these tutorial sessions we offer students the opportunity to learn about current and important information which will enable them to make informed choices about their lifestyles and staying safe.
