Student Handbook
20122013 Be the best you can be at Wigan & Leigh College
Student Handbook 2012-13
Dear Student We are very happy that you have chosen to continue your education here at Wigan and Leigh College. Our responsibility is to support your learning, throughout your course, by working with you so that you leave us with your immediate ambitions fulfilled and your chosen career aspirations satisfied; ready for the next stage of your life. To help you achieve your learning goals, the College has developed this handbook outlining our commitment to you and the key policies and procedures the College has in place to ensure a positive learning environment. We work hard to maintain high standards and would like you to tell us if we fail in any way. Likewise, we will have high expectations of you and will be monitoring your progress on a regular basis. You have been directed to this resource on the College VLE during your Learning Resources Induction because it contains valuable information. Please use it for reference to gain access and information to College polices, procedures and services. During your course, you will have the support of a Personal Tutor who will meet you on a regular basis to help and guide you. Please ask for help if you need it. Finally, we want you to be successful and enjoy your education and training. We hope your studies go well.
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Contents Student Support Student Services & Receptions Student Services Centres Reception, Fees and Cash Office Services Equality and Diversity Pastoral Care - Full Time Students - Part Tie Students Out of Office Services Advice and Guidance Wigan Careers Service Additional Learning Support Inclusive Learning Team Study Support Counselling Support Nursery Facilities Financial Support for Students Financial Assistance for FE Students aged 16-19 - FE Bursary - Travel Financial Assistance for FE Students aged 19+ - Discretionary Learner Support, Hardship and Childcare - Adult Learning Grant - Professional and Career Development Loan Financial Assistance for HE Students - Student Loans - Student Grant - Access to learning Fund Teaching & Learning Health and Wellbeing Student Representatives - What does a Student Rep do? - Do you have what is needed to ne a Student Rep? Functional Skills Skills for Life Centres Value Added System Assessments and Examinations Examination Guidelines Results and Certificates Assessment Appeals Procedure
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Progression Progression - Further Education Progression - Higher Education Information Advice and Guidance References College Services Refreshments and Shops Cash Machines College Travel Shop Studentsâ€&#x; Union College Sexual Health Nursing Service - Drop-in-Sessions - Services not available Learning Resources - What do we provide? - When we are open? Contemplation Rooms Car Parking Including Motor Bikes and Scooters - Provision for students – Leigh Centres - Guidance for car park users - Procedures to ensure the safe use of car parks and internal roads - How to obtain a permit Health and Safety, Building Regulations and Code of Conduct Health and Safety Accidents Emergency Closure Emergency Evacuation First Aid Safety Concerns Protective Clothing and Equipment Safe Systems of Work Medication Illness Jewellery, Facial and Body Piercings Health, Safety and Environment Policy Statement
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Building Management Rules Security Student Identity Card Smoking Gum Chewing Mobile Phones Notices Eating and drinking in workshops and classrooms Workshops - Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Windows and Blinds Lift Use Sustainability Policy Energy - Energy Saving Waste Litter Insurance
Code of Conduct (Rules and Regulations) Student Code of Conduct Disciplinary Guidance – Statement of Principles Alcohol Attendance and Punctuality Bullying Discrimination Harassment Leafleting Disruptive and Unruly Behaviour Drug Abuse Failure to Pay College Fees Failure to Produce Set Work False Fire Alarms Food and Drink Mobile Phones, MP3 players and iPods Offensive Weapons Plagiarism Pornography and Obscenity Security Spitting Theft Vandalism Violence or Assault Web Sites and Email
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College Procedures Complaints Procedure - Introduction - Informal Stage - Formal Stage - What you can expect of the College - Internal Appeals Stage - External Appeals Disciplinary Procedures - Introduction - Misconduct includes - Serious Misconduct Young People and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding Disciplinary Procedures for Misconduct - Phase 1 -Verbal Warning - Phase 2 -Written Warning - Appeals Procedure Disciplinary Procedures for Serious Misconduct - Stage 1 - Stage 2 - Appeals Procedure
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Student Support Student Services and Receptions Welcome to Student Services at Wigan and Leigh College, where a wide variety of support services are in place to ensure that you benefit from a high quality learning experience. We hope that you have an enjoyable and successful time with us. Student Services are located at the following buildings: Pagefield Centre, Wigan Parson‟s Walk Centre, Wigan Sixth Form Centre, Leigh
(01942) 761840 (01942) 761681 (01942) 761440
The services we offer are as follows: Information Advice & Guidance Pagefield Centre, Wigan Parson‟s Walk Centre, Wigan Sixth Form Centre, Leigh
(01942) 761606 (01942) 761607 (01942) 761463
Reception Services Main College Switchboard Wigan Leigh
(01942) 761600 (01942) 761550 (01942) 761440
If you are not sure which centre you need, simply phone our main switchboard number, where staff will be pleased to help with your enquiry and ensure that you are put through to the appropriate department. Reception, Fees and Cash Office Services At each centre we offer the following services: Collection of payments for course, books, materials etc. Provision of a meet and greet service, arranging for visitors to sign in and then to be collected. Access to prospectuses, course leaflets and general information Issuing duplicate receipts Issue of student and visitor car park passes Lost property Assistance in the location of room numbers for classes Information about Learner Support Fund and other hardship grants Point of enrolment and payment of fees Point of payment for examination fees Sale of subsidised travel documents Setting up payment agreements
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Equality and Diversity The College is committed to open access and equal opportunities and will endeavour to operate in a fair and effective manner. The College aims to provide you with comprehensive and impartial advice and guidance on the courses, qualifications and facilities available to you. During your course of study, the College policy is to treat you on your merits without discrimination on the grounds of race, gender, age, disability, marital status, religious belief or sexual orientation. The College policy is to take into account any learning difficulties and or disabilities which you may have and to make available appropriate support and resources to enable you to access the curriculum.
Pastoral Care Full Time Students All full time students are members of a Personal Tutor Group. Your Personal Tutor will check your timetable details, guide you through induction, monitor your attendance and academic progress and will help you to develop your Individual Learning Plan. Your Personal Tutor is your first point of reference for help and support. Part Time Students Part-time students will normally refer any problem to their group tutor. You are entitled to some one-to-one tutor time, which may be provided in College, or in the community venue. If you have a problem of a personal nature that you feel you Cannot discuss with your group tutor, please contact your Divisional Manager or Student Services Department for further advice and support. If your personal issue involves mental health you can discuss this with the mental health mentors, on (01942) 761821. Out of hours service If you are concerned about your own or another person‟s safety you can contact: Children‟s and Young Peoples‟ Services Adult Services Central Duty Team
(01942) 828300 (01942) 828777
Advice and Guidance For assistance in finding the best course for your needs or information on other services at the College please contact: Wigan and Leigh College Course Enquiry Line Pagefield Centre - between 9am - 4.30 pm Parsons Walk Centre - between 9am - 4.30 pm Leigh Centre - between 10am - 4.00 pm
(01942) 761111 (01942) 761606 (01942) 761607 (01942) 761463
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Wigan Careers Service Wigan Careers Service is a service for all.. Whether you have problems or just want some friendly advice, we are here to help you with: Education, training , careers and progression issues Drug and substance misuse Health, including sex and diet problems Money Relationships Contact Student Services to make a confidential appointment with a Wigan Careers Service Personal Adviser. Additional Learning Support Wigan and Leigh College is committed to ensuring that disabled people, including those with learning difficulties, are treated fairly. Reasonable adjustments will be made to ensure that disabled learners and other disabled people are not substantially disadvantaged. If you have a support need you should disclose this need at application, interview, enrolment or induction or at any time when you feel it is appropriate. If you do disclose a disability or support need to any member of the College staff at any time, unless you request the information is kept confidential, the disclosure will be reported to a College Manager or to the Inclusive Learning Team.
Inclusive Learning Team The College welcomes students with learning difficulties and or disabilities. If you feel that you need some support with your learning, contact our Inclusive Learning Team on (01942) 761887/761849 or ilt@wigan-leigh.ac.uk for an informal interview. Members of the Inclusive Learning can:
Assess support requirements Identify strengths and weaknesses Liaise with teaching staff on your behalf Loan specialist equipment Organise special considerations for examinations Provide additional support following assessment Provide an Inclusive Learning Officer (ILO) Refer students to external agencies for further assessment Give assistance with applications for Disabled (Higher Education)
Study Support All students are entitled to help with numeracy and/ or literacy to support their studies. You may request Study Support via your Personal Tutor or Class Tutor.
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Counselling Support Wigan and Leigh College does not provide a dedicated counselling service for students, the College does have an effective Student Services function that offers appropriate support to students enabling them to enrol, attend, study and achieve success, with support from initial advice and guidance, hardship funding and pastoral support. The College has developed strong partnerships with community based health services over a period of time. These are used as a referral mechanism to help any students who may require additional support needs, such as counselling support. This has proved to be a successful route for students with particular additional needs. Students will be made aware of the external agency referral network through any Student Services Centre. Nursery Facilities Wigan and Leigh College does not provide a dedicated Nursery service for students. The College has developed links with community based nursery providers over a period of time and students are signposted to providers via childcare websites.
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Financial Support for Students Financial assistance is available for students studying at College from internal and external support funds. Financial Assistance for FE Students aged 16 - 19 FE Bursary The FE Bursary forms part of the hardship fund for 16-19 year olds. Eligible learners will receive help towards the costs associated with coming to College. Students most in need will be eligible to receive a bursary of up to £1200 a year. This group includes people in care, care leavers, people claiming income support, disabled young persons who receive Employment Support Allowance and Disability Living Allowance. Care to Learn Care to Learn can help pay for childcare costs whilst studying. Travel Students can apply for a student bus pass that entitles them to half the adult fare. Alternatively the “System One” travel card entitles learners to unlimited travel within the Greater Manchester area. Students outside the area can purchase Arriva bus passes subsidised by the College from the reception points. Financial Assistance for FE Students aged 19 + Discretionary Learner Support - Hardship and Childcare The Discretionary Learner Support fund is available to help with learning costs. The funds are prioritised for those who face financial hardship. They can be used to help with: financial hardship and emergencies childcare costs (for Ofsted-registered childcare) essential course-related equipment, materials and field trips travel costs (for those aged 19+) Professional and Career Development Loans Professional and Career Development Loans can help pay for learning. It is a bank loan that is paid back once the student has finished their course. Information is available from Student Services.
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Financial Assistance for HE Students Student loans Students in full time and part time higher education can apply for help with tuition fees and living costs through student loans. The „Tuition Fee loan‟ helps with the cost of tuition fees in full. The „Maintenance loan‟ helps with accommodation and other living costs. Loans need to be paid back; full terms and conditions are available on the student finance website. Student Grant Full-time students on higher education programmes can apply for a Maintenance grant to help with living costs. Students do not have to pay this grant back. Students can get more information and apply for support by contacting Student Finance England on www.studentfinance.direct.gov.uk. Access to Learning Fund Students who have applied for and are receiving support from Student Finance England but are still experiencing hardship can make an appointment to see an advisor about obtaining further help from the Access to Learning fund. Visit Student Services for further details. Please contact Student Services or Receptions for more details about grants, financial support available and welfare issues.
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Teaching and Learning Programmes of study will have a period of induction, varying in length and content, according to the requirements of the programme. The aim is to give you an insight to the course and to Wigan and Leigh College. The College aims to provide you with a quality course provided by qualified, experienced tutors and administration staff in a supportive environment. You will experience a variety of teaching and learning styles, which may include small group tutorials, individual tutorials, assignments, project work and other methods of supported self-study. The College aims to provide: Effective teaching, including the regular setting of work, prompt marking and relevant feedback. Programmes which meet relevant assessment requirements, providing a sound and logical course of study, leading to a qualification of value. Work placements, where relevant and suitable for the development and assessment of appropriate skills. Procedures are in place to assess, monitor and review your progress, including recording of achievement and action planning. If appropriate to your course, you will have the opportunity to develop skills, knowledge and understanding relevant to the world of work. This may include good quality work experience at suitable industrial sites, work simulation, industrial awareness, and conferences and work shadowing. Health and Wellbeing The College actively promotes healthy lifestyles and works with local health service providers to provide a healthy environment for students and to facilitate access to health and well-being services. Health issues will be discussed during tutorials and guest speakers will be invited where possible. Student Representatives Each course has at least one Student Representative. The student(s) will attend Course Curriculum Meetings to advise on student curriculum concerns. If you would like to become more involved in representing the interests of your fellow students in this way, speak to your Course Tutor or Personal Tutor. What Does A Student Rep Do? Your contribution to the course team will bring about improvements that will benefit both you and all your class. Being a Student Rep may also bring you other benefits. It will develop skills such as negotiation, assertiveness, personal organisation and communication. Holding a position of responsibility is a positive addition to your C.V.
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Do You Have What Is Needed To Become A Student Rep? Being a Student Rep will bring out the skills that you already have but may not have had the opportunity to practice and develop. The most important quality is that you have a desire to represent your fellow students and contribute, together with members of staff, to improving the quality of your course. For students who would like a greater role in College matters, join the Students‟ Union Council and come along to the meetings. Ask your Course Tutor or Personal Tutor for an application form. Functional Skills All students full time 16-18 will take one or more Functional Skills qualifications at the appropriate level as indicated by initial assessment. Functional Skills are offered in English, Maths and Information Technology. Functional Skills are an integral part of the course for full-time students. Functional Skills contain very different topics to those you may have studied at school in Mathematics, English and ICT lessons. At College you more likely to develop these skills and apply them within a vocational setting. Skills for Life Centres For help with Mathematics and English, or take a national qualification up to level 2 (GCSE standard) please contact Skills for Life on 01942 761518. There are study centres at the Leigh Centre and at the Parson‟s Walk Centre in Wigan and at various community and library centres throughout Wigan Borough. Provision is FREE and enrolment is available throughout the year. Do you need a reason to think about enrolling? Do you want to Gain confidence in dealing with paperwork? Increase your job prospects? Support children with homework ? Get your qualifications up to date? Gain entry onto other College courses? Improve your income (see below)? Science Daily has recently reported that scoring well on a simple numeracy test indicates you are more likely to increase your income. Good numeracy skills help people make better family financial decisions. Surveyors noted that income could be boosted by thousands of pounds when people had good mathematics skills. Value Added System This is a system to help make ensure our students get the grades they should. The value added system measures the grades you have already achieved when you arrive in College and gives you a target grade to leave with. When you achieve this grade you can be confident that you have achieved higher than the average student in an average school or college. Not all courses end with a grade, so if yours does not then you cannot set a target grade. You personal tutor will explain this to you. Page | 14
Although GCSE achievements do give some indication of future performance, they are not the only factor affecting your results. Your level of motivation and commitment, for example, will undoubtedly affect your academic success. The College operates systems of using average GCSE scores on entry as guidelines for expected grades. This will be explained to you by your Personal Tutor.
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Assessments and Examinations Assessment is the method of measuring your performance on your course. Entries to external examinations are your responsibility. Your tutor will tell you when entries are due and ensure you are aware of the College closing date for entry. Entry forms are available from faculty offices and all forms must be checked and signed by the appropriate lecturer. Information regarding fees is available from faculty offices. Extra charges may be made for late entries or changes you wish to make to your initial entry examination form. 16 -19 year old students on full-time courses usually have their examination fees paid unless attendance falls below the minimum requirement. An examination timetable will be issued it is your responsibility to check your dates so that you can report any timetable clashes as early as possible to the examinations office. Information regarding date, times and venues of exams cannot be given out over the telephone. It is your responsibility to check these on College notice boards or with your Course Tutor. The College reserves the right to recover costs for an assessment or examination if a student does not attend. Examination Guidelines This is a summary of The „Assessment and Qualifications Alliance Guidelines‟. A full version is available on request from the Examinations Office. Any work submitted for assessment either internally or externally must be your own work. All sources must be acknowledge, including direct acknowledgement of quotations Candidates causing a disruption could be expelled from the examination room During any examination or assessment you must not communicate or seek assistance or offer assistance to any other candidate Mobile phones must not be taken into the examination room Proof of identification is required prior to sitting any examinations. Your student identification card must be produced. Temporary card are not available before the start of an examination. Results and Certificates A level and GCSE results are available from College on the day of issue or they will be posted to you. Results from other courses will be available at specified times. Results are not given over the phone. Inform the Examinations Office if you change your address after entering otherwise result/certificates may be lost.
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Assessment Appeals Procedure In-college Assessment In the event of a studentâ€&#x;s assessment grade not reflecting his or her reasonable expectation, he or she may lodge a written appeal within 7 days of the published results to the Course Manager, giving reasons for appeal. The Course Manager will chair an Appeal Hearing where the Subject Lecturer and Curriculum Manager will carry out an investigation and inform you of the findings, in writing, within 14 days of the appeal being received. External Assessment Set appeals systems against external assessments are in existence. If you wish to appeal against grades made by an external body, discuss the reasons for the appeal with your Personal Tutor or Course Tutor who will advise you on the correct course of action. College Exams Office The examinations office is based at Parsonâ€&#x;s Walk, Wigan Telephone 01942 761587 Email: exams@wigan-leigh.ac.uk
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Progression Progression - Further Education Progression to a further education course will help you progress along your chosen pathway i.e. work or higher education. Your tutor will give you advice and progression talks can be arranged. Students on Level 1 or Level 2 courses may wish to make an appointment with the Information Advice & Guidance Team for guidance on their future career path. Progression - Higher Education Applying to university or finding out more about your next career step Students who wish to apply to university are invited to make appointments with one of the Colleges IAG Advisors on Information Advice & Guidance Pagefield Centre, Wigan Parson‟s Walk Centre, Wigan Sixth Form Centre, Leigh
(01942) 761606 (01942) 761607 (01942) 761463
Parents, guardians or carers can be present at these individual appointments, with the student‟s agreement. At Learning Resources in Parson‟s Walk Centre and the Sixth Form Centre in Leigh, we have a range of prospectuses from universities. We have also put a whole range of materials on job applications, university applications and interview techniques on the Student Services area of the VLE (Virtual Learning Environment). Places in university are very competitive: apply early to enhance your chance of obtaining an offer. References Potential employers or agencies may, request information from the College concerning you and your personal data as part of their reference procedure. The College regards this information as being covered by the Data Protection Act and we must have your agreement in writing; to disclose this to potential employers or agencies. Past students contact Student Services to enquire whether the College is able to provide a reference, for either educational or employment purposes, after the individual has left College. We are pleased to assist with this and will gather information from our systems and our tutors to provide as helpful a reference as possible. However, if it is more than three years since you left College, this process may not be possible.
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College Services Refreshments and Shops Chartwells operate the 5 Refectories, 2 Retail Shops and the Vending Services across all sites, offering a comprehensive range of breakfast and lunch items at Parson‟s Walk, Pagefield, WSA, Image Centre and Leigh Sixth Form Centre. Vending services are available on all sites. If you have any comments or suggestions to improve the service please contact: Chartwells on (01942) 761602 (Parson‟s Walk) All opening times subject to change throughout the year. LOOK OUT FOR OUR REGULAR SPECIAL OFFERS AND PROMOTIONS Retail shops are situated at Parson‟s Walk and Pagefield for snacks and beverages. Vending machines are available to provide drinks and snacks when the refectory is closed. Cash Machines Cash machines are available at the Pagefield Centre, Parson‟s Walk Centre, and the Sixth Form Centre in Leigh. A transaction fee is not charged for these machines. College Travel Shop Holidays and trips can be booked through the College Travel Shop at Parson‟s Walk on (01942) 761841 or email your enquiry to travelshop@wigan-leigh.ac.uk. Students’ Union You are entitled to free membership of the Students‟ Union. Ask your tutor for an application form, or call into Student Services for a form. Details of the benefits include discounts from local shops and services, meetings and further involvement in the running of the College. An elected student representative is also a member of the Governing Board, and as a Student Governor is responsible for representing your interests. Wigan and Leigh College welcome your comments on the quality of your educational experience and the services provided by the College. Contact your student reps for more information.
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College Sexual Health Nursing Service The nursing team offer a confidential service for students to discuss sexual health and issues affecting healthy lifestyles. Students have access to non-judgemental services such as pregnancy testing, contraceptives and advice and Chlamydia testing. . Drop-in-sessions The drop-in-sessions for students are held at the Parson‟s Walk Centre(TheSexual Health Centre at the rear of the Impact Centre) and at Leigh Sixth Form Centre (room 028). The clinic times can be found on notice boards within college, outside each clinic, from Student Liaison Officers and Student Services. The College Sexual Health Nursing Service is actively involved in the promotion of a Healthy Lifestyles through health promotion events during the year. It is also involved in delivering sexual health tutorials. So why not ask your Personal Tutor to book a nurse to deliver a tutorial on sexual health? Services not available College nurses are unable to issue pain relief such as paracetamol or to diagnose sprains, aches, pains or any other illnesses. For first aid issues please contact first aiders - contact details can be found in your course area office or in Student Services. Anything discussed with the nurses will be kept confidential and not shared with the College and its staff except in the case of issues regarding the protection of Young People or Vulnerable Adults. Learning Resources Learning Resources is at the hub of the College and offers a wide range of services and facilities to meet the needs of students and staff. There are three centres on the Leigh Campus and two on the Wigan Campus and they are busy throughout the day, providing a place for research and study outside the classroom. What do we provide? We offer a wide range of resources to support academic study and leisure reading including books, newspapers, magazines and DVDs and these are constantly updated. They are complemented by a large collection of e-resources including over 3500 e-books and e-journals which can be accessed from home. All students are given a college network account and storage space on the „W‟ drive on the college network. They also have access to accounts on the VLE, library catalogue and the college email system. Our centres have a range of open access desktop PCs and in addition some centres have Apple Macs and wireless laptops available. All students have a free printing allowance for each academic year and have the opportunity to top up for printing and photocopying as required.
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All our centres have been refurbished recently and offer both group areas where students can study and discuss their work and individual study carrels for quiet research. Staff are always on hand to offer individual help and support but we also deliver group sessions bookable via tutors including: Induction E-resources Harvard Searching for information for assignments. Accessing the VLE Writing and presenting skills Basic Microsoft Office One to one specialist sessions are also bookable by individual students at the Learning resources helpdesk. They are bespoke one hour sessions which focus on the needs of the students and the skills they need to acquire, whether is be Harvard referencing, research strategies, e-resources, password activation or general IT help and support. When are we open? Our opening hours can be found in the Learning Resources section of the VLE and on the library catalogue. Most centres are open from 8.30am each morning (9.30am on Mondays) until 5.00pm and then late nights until 7.30pm.
Contemplation Rooms Wigan and Leigh College provides contemplation rooms, at Parson‟s Walk Centre and Sixth Form Centre Leigh. Students may access these rooms, which are for individual use, by collecting a key from Reception. A current College Identity Card must be lodged in exchange for the key.
CAR PARKING INCLUDING MOTOR BIKES AND SCOOTERS There are limited spaces for vehicles to park at College, the College Travel Plan promotes walking, cycling, the use of public transport and car sharing wherever possible. The Car Park Management system includes: Registration for a student permit and payment of a daily fee payable at a meter for the use of the car park. Please note that registration and payment does not guarantee a space. The services of an external “ticketing” company are in place, who will issue a parking charge notice to users of vehicles not displaying a valid permit, not parked in a bay or permitted area. Motorbikes and scooters must only be parked in the designated areas; at most sites this is where the low level bars are provided for attaching locks or chains. These are not to be confused with the higher level „hoops‟ for cycles. A permit must be purchased from reception and must be available for inspection at all times.
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At no time may College students‟ vehicles be parked: 1. On the access road between Parson‟s Walk Centre and School for the Arts. Parking here not only contravenes College Regulations, but also creates a very serious problem for essential and emergency service vehicles and deliveries. 2. In the parking area adjacent to the main entrance to School for the Arts. This is available for staff only. 3. On the access road to the Wigan Cricket Club, adjacent to the entrance to Bull Hey Car Park. Provision for students - Leigh Centres Students attending any site are permitted to park cars on the Image Centre car parks if a valid college permit is displayed and in any designated parking space at Leigh Sports Village . Guidance for car park users Students may only park on College premises on the days they are attending College. The College cannot accept responsibility or meet claims for the loss or damage to any student vehicles or their contents whilst parked on College premises parking areas. Space is at a premium and students are reminded that inconsiderate, careless or dangerous parking can give rise to very difficult situations of access to buildings, particularly in emergencies. Cars parked in such locations will be issued with a parking charge notice. Park only in a designated space. Parking outside designated areas will result in the car being issued with a parking charge notice. Permits and tickets must be clearly displayed failure to display will result in the car being issued with a parking penalty notice. Permits must be transferred and displayed if an alternative registered vehicle is used. Only one permit will be issued per student. Personal permits can and will be withdrawn for repeated careless or inconsiderate parking and students will face disciplinary action. Vehicles with a valid permit and ticket that are parked in designated areas will not be issued with a parking charge notice. Procedures to ensure the safe use of the car parks and internal roads Keep to the speed limit of 5mph when using College Car parks, students breaking this speed limit will have their permits withdrawn and face disciplinary action. Think of others and do not obstruct other vehicles, if your vehicle is considered to be an obstruction you may receive a parking charge notice. Where there are marked bays you must park within the lines. If your vehicle is not parked within a bay you may receive a parking charge notice. Where there are no marked bays please park sensibly, with care to ensure space for other vehicles.
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How to obtain a permit Students wishing to park on College car parks need to sign the agreement and pay the required fee. Students must register at reception to complete the form and pay the fee. Students with a disabled persons‟ vehicle badge can obtain a car parking permit from Receptions and apply to Environmental Services to provide a suitable parking space near their place of study. For further travel information please visit the college website. www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk
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Health & Safety Building Regulations and Code of Conduct Health and Safety Wigan and Leigh College promotes and believes that students are entitled to learning that takes place in a safe, healthy and supportive environment. To ensure we fulfil our legal obligations to employees, students and others who may be affected by our activities, Wigan and Leigh College has a Health and Safety Policy and supporting procedures with guidance. In your Induction to College, you will be made aware of the procedures of safe working practices relating to the Health, Safety and Environment Policy. This is an integral part of the system and you will be expected to comply with all instructions. Failure to do so could result in Disciplinary Action against you. The following is a summary of the key procedures: Accidents If an accident occurs you must report it immediately to your Personal Tutor or Lecturer. Emergency closure In the event of the College closing due to an emergency situation, students registered with Txttools will receive relevant up-to-date information via SMS text messages. Information will also be posted on the main college website at http://www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk. Students are reminded to work independently during any closure and to log onto and check their course VLE for details of coursework that they need to do. Emergency Evacuation If the emergency alarm sounds all students, staff and visitors MUST evacuate the building immediately, and make their way to the appropriate assembly point away from the building. Students, staff and visitors, with mobility difficulties, e.g. in a wheelchair or using a walking aid should have a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) and should be accompanied by a „buddy‟ to the nearest place of safety; the refuge area is labelled with a letter or number. Anyone with mobility difficulties should wait until the majority of people have moved downstairs to ensure a safe evacuation. Signs indicating emergency routes and doors are displayed throughout College Emergency exits should only be used during an emergency evacuation. First Aid Trained First Aid personnel are available, their names and telephone numbers are displayed throughout the College.
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Safety Concerns If you have any concerns in relation to Health and Safety, please inform your Personal Tutor or Lecturer, who will ensure that an investigation takes place.. Protective Clothing and Equipment All students must ensure that they have suitable protective clothing for in such areas as workshops, laboratories or any other place designated by the college. You must follow all safe working practices relating to particular experiments or pieces of work and equipment. Safe Systems of Work There may be certain rules and regulations associated to your course of study. This information will be given to you at the start of your course. Medication Students must keep all medication in a safe place. Illness Students who are diagnosed as suffering from a notifiable or infectious illness for example - Legionnaires disease, tuberculosis (TB), Meningitis, Hepatitis Students must inform a member of staff, their tutor or lecturer who will then inform the Strategic Management Team who will in turn inform the appropriate authorities. They will not be allowed to resume attendance until a medical certificate has been supplied to the Assistant Principal. Confidentiality will be preserved in all cases. Jewellery, Facial and Body Piercings The College reserves the right not to allow students to wear jewellery or display facial or body piercings. Students must fully comply with the Health and Safety requirements of their course at all times. Health, Safety and Environment Policy Statement Wigan and Leigh College aims to implement safe systems of work to reduce risk for all students, staff and visitors to College; to promote sustainability to protect and enhance the environment and to promote the health and well being of all its students and staff.
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Building Management Standards These rules are here to ensure your health, safety and security. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action. Security All students, staff, visitors and contractors must wear identity badges, worn so that they can be easily be seen whilst on College premises. Non-compliance may be considered a disciplinary matter. Security incidents must be reported to a member of staff immediately. Emergency exit doors must not be used as an entrance; they MUST be left closed except for emergencies. Student Identity Card The College issues student cards free of charge. The student identity card gives you access to the college buildings, facilities and resources such as libraries and Learning Resource Centres in the College. The College will take disciplinary action against students who lend and students who borrow identity cards. If you forget your card a 24 hour temporary card is available from receptions for 50p. Only one temporary card is permitted during your academic year. You will be charged a replacement fee if you lose your card. A replacement can be purchased for £5.00 from Learning Resources until 1st April, after this date the cost is reduced to £2.00. Smoking Smoking is not permitted at Parson‟s Walk Centre and the Sixth Form Centre Leigh. Smoking is permitted at the Image Centre in Leigh and the Pagefield Centre at Wigan, but only in the smoking shelters provided. Please note – cigarette butts are litter. A „Fixed Penalty Charge‟ can be issued. Please use the bins provided. Gum Chewing Gum chewing is tolerated provided it does not cause a nuisance – gum must only be disposed by wrapping it and placing it in a litter bin. In some areas of college and in some lessons gum chewing is not permitted. Please check with your tutor if you are unsure. Mobile phones Use of mobile phones is only permitted as a learning aid in a controlled manner in classrooms or workshops. You will be expected to switch off your phone if it is not required for learning. Camera phone images of College property and staff/students is not permitted unless the tutor‟s permission has been given and if images of staff and/or students are to be taken their written permission must also be obtained.
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Notices Notices are displayed throughout College, some of which will contain important details relating to health and safety, others will give advice or information on College and non-College activities. Do not remove or deface them. Students wishing to put up posters in College must obtain permission from the Executive Director, Environmental Services. Eating and drinking in workshops and classrooms Eating and drinking is not permitted in workshops and laboratories. Drinking water is permitted in classrooms at the discretion of the tutor. Filtered mains drinking water dispensers are available at all sites. Workshop - Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Protective Equipment (PPE), to expected professional and safety standards, must be worn within workshops and work environments. Promotion of a litter free and tidy environment Please do not drop litter – use the litter bins provided. TIDY ENVIRONMENT please help the cleaners by leaving your area clear/tidy to facilitate cleaning. Graffiti is treated as a serious issue and action will be taken against anyone found to have posted graffiti. Windows and blinds Please do not open the window in the twist position, this is unsafe. Windows must only be opened in the tilt position. If the window is not locked to prevent opening in the twist position please inform Environmental Services. Windows must only be opened in the tilt position. If the window is not locked in the safe opening mode please inform a member of staff. The blinds are easily damaged if they are allowed to blow in the wind. Please ensure that the windows are closed when you leave the room and particularly if it is very windy. Please report any broken blinds immediately by emailing Environmental Services environmentalservices@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Lift Use To promote health and well-being and improve access for students and staff with a disability the use of lifts should be limited to Students with a specific disability or when carrying a heavy load. Students must consider the needs of others before using any lift in any building. Remember - the stairs are often faster and promote fitness. Please keep left on the main stairs where two handrails are present. Sustainability Policy Wigan & Leigh College has a sustainability policy that everyone is required to support and comply with. The following sections relate to the sustainability which can be found at http://10.50.3.217/sustainability .
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Energy The College has a Carbon Management Plan with the key aim to reduce carbon output and related energy use by 30%. To do this we need to make sure that we are all doing the following simple things: Energy Saving Ensure all lights, equipment and appliances are switched off after use. Adjust radiators using the thermostatic radiator valve to maintain a comfortable temperature rather than opening windows. Close all windows at the end of the session to conserve energy and reduce the College Carbon Footprint. Waste College aims to reduce the amount of waste produced and to recycle as much as possible. Please ensure that the waste guidelines are adhered to, these can be found on the college website. To avoid waste please try to remember to print double sided where possible and only print when absolutely necessary. Litter There is an £80 fine for dropping litter in Wigan. Neighbourhood officers from the council can issue these tickets to anyone caught dropping litter. This includes cigarette ends and chewing gum so please use the bins provided. Please do not drop litter - use the litter bins provided. Insurance In respect of students‟ baggage and personal effects carried in College minibus on trips, the following shall apply: a) any one article or pair or set of articles Limit £250 b) all money Limit £400 c) all property insured under (a) and (b) above Limit £1500 Students will be held fully responsible for any loss or damage caused by them to College property, including laboratory and workshop, other than that caused by legitimate use in connection with the College work. The College accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to the property of College users, wherever and whenever left on College premises or grounds. Personal property must be covered by an extension to your home contents insurance. Any College users who lose property are advised to report the matter immediately to a member of College staff and also at the Reception area in main buildings. The College Site Supervisors keep details of lost property in each building. If in doubt, check at the Reception Desks.
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Code of Conduct (Rules and Regulations) Student Code of Conduct Wigan and Leigh College places high expectations on all students undertaking a course of study. All students will be expected to act in accordance with the guidelines stated below. By enrolling onto a programme of study at Wigan and Leigh College students agree to adhere to the following: Attend all College lessons punctually and as required for successful completion of your learning goals. Tutors should be notified immediately whenever attendance at arranged sessions is delayed or not possible. Follow instructions for completing assignments and exams without cheating, copying or plagiarising (using someone else‟s work, e.g. from the internet, another student or a book or magazine, and pretending it is your own). Wear your student identity cards so that the photo can be seen at all times, show it when asked and never allow it to be used by another person. Not smoke anywhere on College premises. This includes entrances and exits. Follow any reasonable instructions given by a member of the College staff. Respect the well-being and property of other members of the College and the wider community, and treat College property with care. Keep all mobile devices on silent and non-vibrate mode or switched off in learning areas and use only with permission of the staff. Demonstrate respect to all students and staff and behave in a thoughtful, caring and responsible manner. We do not tolerate discrimination, harassment or abusive/foul language. This includes wearing or displaying logos or slogans that could offend other people. Safeguard the reputation of Wigan & Leigh College by not behaving in a way that could damage the good name of the College. This includes not posting images or words online which may give a bad impression of the College, its students or staff. Agree to the IT Code of Conduct and use computer facilities only to support your learning. Observe the College Health & Safety regulations and pay attention to your own and other peoples‟ health and safety. Keep yourself and other members of our community safe by not carrying or using illegal drugs or any equipment for drug and/or alcohol use and also weapons onto College premises or asking anyone else to do this for you. If you fail to follow this Code, disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with the Student Disciplinary Procedure. This may lead too exclusion from the College.
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Disciplinary Guidance - Statement of Principles Wigan and Leigh College is committed to creating and maintaining an environment of mutual trust, respect and confidence. In this safe and secure learning environment, the needs of students and staff can be served and studies undertaken without unnecessary disturbance or disquiet. The College has a legal and moral obligation to promote the general good of all its members by acting against any unacceptable behaviour or practice. All individuals are responsible for the maintenance of the College community. The College will challenge any form of discrimination, harassment, vandalism or disruption against people and or property, if appropriate. The College will take disciplinary action and involve the Police or other external agencies when breaches of its rules occur. The College reserves the right to take disciplinary action against students involved in illegal activities off College premise, where such activities are deemed to pose a risk to College premises, staff, students, our reputation or partner organisations. All College staff, students and visitors are required to the College‟s Rules and Regulations as set out below: Alcohol Students may not bring alcohol onto College premises. Students under the influence of alcohol are not allowed on College premises and will be considered to have committed Serious Misconduct. Attendance and Punctuality Regular and punctual attendance is required for all timetabled activities on and off College premises. Remember that employers and Higher Education institutions will look for evidence of good attendance and punctuality - these are skills for life When you are absent, you must telephone the member of staff identified at induction. If you are fit and do not ring in, the absence will result in an investigation by your Student Liaison Officer (SLO) and Personal Tutor and possible disciplinary action by your Personal Tutor and Divisional Manager. Not attending timetabled activities may also affect your entitlement regarding Being entered for the course examination Being registered with an awarding body Continuing with your course Having your examination entry funded by the College Receiving a bursary, grant, Learning Support Fund, Care to Learn Support, Work placement Your ability to pass the course and your ability to gain your qualification Persistent absence may result in disciplinary proceedings being started against you and may result in a disciplinary hearing, which could result in permanent exclusion. If you are absent from College for 5 consecutive working days without an acceptable explanation or submission of a medical note, your SLO, Personal or Course Tutor will write or telephone you for clarification of the situation. Your parent(s) or guardian(s) or employer(s) will be informed as appropriate. If you or parent(s) or guardian(s) or employer(s) do not respond by the set deadline, the Divisional Manager will inform the relevant Assistant Principal and you will be deemed to have voluntarily withdrawn from the course. The Divisional Manager will send a final letter to you and a copy will be forwarded to your parent(s) or guardian(s) or employer(s) as appropriate and the relevant Assistant Principal informed of your withdrawal. Page | 30
If you need to attend important appointments e.g. medical, you will need to provide evidence to allow this absence to be recorded as “authorised”. Bullying Bullying, either physical or verbal will be considered as an act of Serious Misconduct (see discrimination and harassment below). Discrimination This is the act of treating an individual or group worse than another for no justifiable reason. The College actively seeks to eliminate all forms of discrimination whether towards staff or students and will challenge discrimination on a wide variety of grounds, including: Age Colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin Disabilities, sensory impairments, learning difficulties, mental or physical health Gender, marital or civil partnership status Pregnancy and maternity Religious belief Sexual orientation or gender re-assignment Harassment This is a serious form of discrimination. It may include any action, behaviour, comment or physical contact that is unwanted and causes offence to the victim. Harassment is unlawful and offensive. The College will fully support the law. Harassment may include: Behaviour or comments which could make people feel unwelcome or uncomfortable. Behaviour which embarrasses humiliates or causes offence to an individual, including unwelcome touching or the sending of e-mails and telephone messages which are inappropriate and or offensive in nature. Body language that makes other people feel uncomfortable. Derogatory name calling, in the form of racist, sexist, homophobic or disablist language, insults or jokes; graffiti; written insults; wearing of badges, images or logos on clothing which cause offence; or distribution of offensive literature. Physical or verbal assault, threats or bullying. Posting, emailing or texting electronic derogatory comments, diagrams or photographs which embarrasses, humiliates or causes offence to an individual. Examples of racial harassment could also include offensive slogans or the distribution of racist literature. Examples of sexual harassment include sexist comments to or about another person, unwanted physical contact (which can also be seen as assault), leering and the passing of sexual material to another person.
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The College will not tolerate any form of discrimination. Any act of discrimination or harassment will result in disciplinary action being taken and possible police involvement. Remember: We expect you to treat all people with respect at all times Leafleting Wigan and Leigh College does not permit the display of party political material or allow the distribution of leaflets or other literature of this type. Staff and students are reminded that the display or circulation of any unapproved material within College may lead to Disciplinary action. Disruptive and Unruly Behaviour Unruly behaviour can cause offence and in some cases can lead to accidents. Please be sensitive to the needs of others and help maintain a reasonable, quiet, orderly environment. Do not run along corridors or down stairs. Do not sit on corridors. Disruption on college premises, college organised trips or placements will not be tolerated and may lead to disciplinary action being taken. Drug Abuse Prescribed drugs are those that are issued by doctors for your use and any drugs that can be bought over the counter. Wigan and Leigh College has guidelines on unprescribed drugs. Our guidelines on drug abuse have the full support of the College Management, the Greater Manchester Police and Local Community organisations. The guidelines state that when you are associated with the College either on College owned or managed property, on residentials, course trips, work placements or when you are representing the College, you must not possess, handle, distribute or use any „unprescribed drugsâ€&#x;. If you are found to be involved with drugs illegally, you must expect the involvement of the Police and your exclusion from the College. Failure to pay college fees Failure to pay college fees within specified deadlines will be dealt with under the disciplinary process. Failure to produce set work Failure to produce set work within specified deadlines will result in an investigation and disciplinary action may well be taken. False Fire Alarms It is illegal to set off the fire alarm system without just cause. If you are found to have deliberately tampered with the alarm system or any of the fire fighting equipment, this will be dealt with as Serious Misconduct by the College. The Fire Service and the Police will be informed. Food and Drink Food and drink should only be consumed in the refectories and designated areas. Failure to comply may result in a disciplinary warning. Page | 32
Mobile Phones, MP3 players and iPods Mobile phones, MP3 players and iPods must be turned off and not used in class without the permission of the member of staff. You must not use these to take photographs or videos in College. Mobile phones, MP3 players and iPods are not to be taken into examinations or formal assessments. Failure to comply may be dealt with as Serious Misconduct by the College and may result in proceedings against you by external awarding bodies. Offensive weapons Students on College premises or College organised activities must not be in possession of any offensive weapon. This will be dealt with as Serious Misconduct and offenders risk automatic exclusion and Police involvement. Plagiarism Plagiarism (the copying of another person‟s work) is seen as a breach of College rules and regulations. You must not copy another person‟s work and claim it to be your own. .Any attempt to gain credit for another person‟s work is regarded as cheating. If you are proven to have intentionally plagiarised work, this will be treated as Serious Misconduct. You could be excluded from your course of study and the awarding body may withhold your qualification. Pornography and Obscenity Accessing, storing or communicating pornography, any obscene images or scripts from any source is strictly prohibited. This includes email and College I.T. facilities. The College can monitor your activity when using College computers. Failure to follow College guidelines will result in disciplinary action and possible Police involvement. Security Safety and security is everyone‟s responsibility. You must wear your Identity card to help us identify any unauthorised persons. You may not lend or let any other person use your card. Disciplinary action may be taken against any student who does this. Any visitors should have signed in and have temporary Identity cards. Report any suspicious person to the nearest member of staff. Help to keep our learning environment safe. Spitting We do not expect students to spit. Any student found doing so may be disciplined. Theft Everyone is responsible looking after their possessions. However, the College will do its best to prevent theft. Any person found in possession of stolen property belonging to another individual, the College, Catering Contractor or other Contractor may be disciplined and the Police will be involved. Report any instance of theft to either the security staff or Reception.
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Vandalism Deliberate damage to College property, including buildings, equipment, computers, software, books, furnishings or other peopleâ€&#x;s personal property will no be tolerated and may lead to disciplinary action being taken and possible Police involvement. Violence or Assault Any form of violence or threat of violence against another individual or individuals or their property is illegal and may result in exclusion from College and the involvement of the Police. Web Sites and Email The College provides all students with individual network access and an academic email. You are responsible for all activity that takes place through your own access rights. You should not share or divulge your password and should take care when using your email. During lessons or self-study you may all access websites and email as directed; these do not include social networking sites such as Facebook and My Space nor do they include any sites which contain violent, pornographic imagery, text or materials that may cause offence to others; access may result in disciplinary action. Your College email is the most immediate way of keeping in touch with College messages. You must use it within the guidelines. If you send emails which bring the College in to dispute, you may be disciplined. Posting or emailing statements, diagrams or photographs about other college students or members of staff on websites may involve you in disciplinary procedures for harassment, Police action and possible civil court action. Any actions taken on the College network or electronic services that are seen by the College as malicious or an attempt to avoid College controls may also result in disciplinary action by the College and may also involve action against you by outside bodies. Remember that the College can monitor your activity when using College computers.
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College Procedures Complaints Procedures Introduction Wigan and Leigh College is keen to receive feedback in order to improve the quality of its services. Sometimes individuals may feel dissatisfied with some aspect of the Collegeâ€&#x;s services. The College aims to resolve issues quickly and without need to use the formal procedures where possible. Complaints can be informal or formal. Your complaint will be treated in a sensitive manner. Consultation with others on a need to know basis may be undertaken as part of the investigation in order to resolve the complaint. There is an Appeals Procedure if you are not satisfied with the way your complaint has been dealt with. Informal stage The College recognises that the majority of concerns will be raised informally and that these can, and should, be dealt with immediately and to the satisfaction of the person making the complaint. The aim is to resolve informal concerns quickly, keep matters low-key and mediate between the person making the complaint (complainant) and the individual dealing with the matter. You should raise concerns within 5 working days of the incident with the appropriate member of staff who will be responsible for dealing with the matter immediately. If you wish to make an informal complaint, please follow the Informal Stage of the Complaints Procedure - How to make a complaint available from Student Services. Formal stage If you have experienced dissatisfaction with the outcome at the Informal Stage you should refer the matter to the Formal Complaints Procedure within 15 working days of the informal response being given. You may wish to follow the Formal Complaints Procedure at the outset. In this case you must bring your complaint to the Collegeâ€&#x;s attention within 12 working weeks of the stated occurrence of the complaint. You may wish to withdraw your complaint or revert to informal stage at any point as long as you make a written statement to that effect. If you wish to make a formal complaint, please follow the procedure for Formal Stage of the Complaints Procedure - How to make a complaint, available from Student Services. Why have complaints procedures? The procedures are intended to ensure that all complaints are handled fairly, consistently, in a timely manner and wherever possible resolved to the complainantâ€&#x;s satisfaction.
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How are different types of student complaint handled? Certain types of complaints made by students will be treated under different procedures and will be directed to the appropriate person or procedure: If your complaint appears to relate to unprofessional behaviour of a member of staff, or appears to contain equal opportunities related matters e.g. harassment or bullying; discrimination or any other unprofessional conduct it will be referred to the Assistant Principal for the area and Human Resources for investigation. If your complaint relates to the conduct of another student, the matter will be directed to the Divisional Manager for the curriculum area and will be dealt with under the Student Disciplinary procedures. If you are a student studying at College on a higher education programme linked to a partner University, you should first follow the College‟s Complaints Procedure. If you are dissatisfied with the outcome you will be directed to the University‟s Complaints Procedure. Dissatisfaction following this can be forwarded to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for HE. If your complaint refers to Student Support funding and the issue has not been satisfactorily resolved through the informal stage, your formal complaint will be directed to the Student Services Office Manager as long as you raise your concerns within 15 working days of the issue arising. A complaint will be dismissed if there is insufficient evidence The initial response to your complaint will notify you of the action to be taken to deal with your complaint. If your complaint is found to have been made maliciously and without foundation disciplinary procedures will be taken. What you can expect of the College You will receive an initial response to your complaint, in the form of a holding letter, within 10 working days of receipt of the formal complaint during term time. This confirms that your complaint has been received and is under investigation. During holiday periods, the response time may be slightly longer. A member of staff will investigate your complaint fully. If further information is required you will have the opportunity to put forward your views either by telephone or by a personal interview. You are welcome to bring a friend or colleague with you during your discussion of the complaint. You will be informed in writing of the outcome of your complaint within 20 working days and the College will give reasons for its decision. During holiday periods, an immediate investigation may not be possible. In this case the complainant will be advised. Internal appeals stage If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your complaint at the Formal Stage, you can ask for your case to be reviewed by an appeal panel by first contacting the Quality Director within 10 working days of receiving the response. Follow the guidelines of the Complaints Procedure How to make a complaint.
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An impartial and independent senior member of the College staff will chair the appeal review panel. You will receive a letter confirming the decision of the appeal. You may also appeal to the Governing Body of the College. External Appeals If you remain dissatisfied after the internal appeal: If you are a student on a further education course you can currently take the complaint to an outside body. Contact the Quality Director for the relevant address. If you are a student studying at College on a higher education programme linked to a partner University and have followed the College‟s complaints procedures, you will be directed to the University‟s Complaints Procedures. Dissatisfaction following this can be forwarded to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for HE (OIA). Contact details for the Quality Director: Wigan and Leigh College PO Box 53 Parson‟s Walk Wigan WN1 1RS Telephone: 01942 761623 Email: g.richardson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk
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Disciplinary Procedures Introduction The College expects all students to behave in a way that demonstrates high standards of personal and group discipline and respect for others. Failure to comply with the expected behavioural standards will lead to disciplinary action. The disciplinary procedure is set out to deal with non compliance under the headings of Misconduct and Serious Misconduct. The following are examples only and these lists are not exhaustive. Misconduct includes: Disruptive or unruly behaviour on College property Inappropriate use of, or damage to, College resources Inappropriate use of mobile phones Persistent lateness Repeated non-attendance Repeated failure to do set work and to submit work by the deadlines Repeated failure to wear ID cards Smoking in unauthorised areas Unpaid fees Serious Misconduct Accessing or storing pornography, or any obscene image or scripts, from any source. Any illegal activity Assault, violence, bullying or harassment of any kind Deliberate falsification of records or fraudulent acts e.g. FE Bursary, Learning Support, Care to Learn, ALF, bus passes or permits Drug, alcohol or solvent abuse Intentional use of plagiarism Persistent or serious unruly or disruptive behaviour Possession of any offensive weapon Repeated acts of misconduct Serious breaches of Health and Safety Regulations Serious offences against property e.g. criminal damage, theft Failure to disclose a serious offence The nature of the misconduct and seriousness of the misconduct may lead to automatic exclusion from College. Young People and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding During the course of a disciplinary investigation or interview, issues may arise with respect to the safeguarding of learners. Any such issue arising will be reported on Form CP1 at the first available opportunity to the Young People and Vulnerable Adult Designated Protection Officer. This will be done by the investigating Divisional Manager for Misconduct or their nominated deputy when the investigation is for Serious Misconduct.
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DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES FOR MISCONDUCT Misconduct Phase 1 - Verbal Warning If you commit Misconduct, any member of staff can issue a verbal warning. This will be reported to your Personal Tutor and recorded on your file. It will remain on your file for 60 working days. An action plan for improvement will be agreed. If you do not achieve the standards agreed, or you re-offend, then you will move to Phase 2 below: Misconduct Phase 2 - Written Warning A Divisional Manager will issue you with a written warning. Where applicable parent(s) or guardian(s) or employer(s) will be informed. The warning will remain on your file for 12 months and your behaviour will be regularly reviewed. You will receive a copy of the written warning. An action plan for improvement will be agreed. If you do not achieve the standards agreed or you reoffend the divisional manager will refer the matter to the relevant Assistant Principal resulting in the next stage of the disciplinary process ie. Serious Misconduct. Misconduct - Appeals Procedure This appeal must be made in writing to the relevant Assistant Principal for the curriculum area, within 5 days of any given warning. The Assistant Principal will write to you within 10 days informing you of the decision of your appeal.
Offences Leading to Automatic Exclusion from College
Failure to comply with the terms of a final written warning from a disciplinary panel Possession/use of an offensive weapon Possession of/or dealing in non-prescription drugs
Please note that all disciplinary warnings issued under the Disciplinary Procedures for Misconduct and the Disciplinary Procedures for Serious Misconduct will state the reasons for the warning and the standard of behaviour required. The warning will also state what action will be taken should further misconduct occur.
The procedure is summarised in the following flow chart.
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Misconduct Procedures - Summary
Stage 1 Verbal Warning
If you commit misconduct, any member of staff can issue a verbal warning for misconduct. This can be recorded and kept by your Personal Tutor in your file and the Divisional Manager will be informed. An action plan for improvement will be agreed with your Personal Tutor and reviewed in 2 weeks.
Review meeting in 2 weeks
Improvement?
NO You will be moved to Stage 2
Stage 2 Written Warning
Your Divisional Manager or other designated member of staff will give you a written warning. This will be recorded and kept by your Personal Tutor in your file. A copy will be sent to your parent(s)/guardian(s)/employer(s). An action plan for improvement will be agreed with the Divisional Manager or other designated member of staff and reviewed in 2 weeks. The Head of Faculty will be informed.
YES No further action unless misconduct is repeated. The verbal warning will be removed from your file after 60 working days.
Review meeting in 2 weeks
Improvement?
NO
YES
You will be referred to the Student Services Manager and moved onto the disciplinary procedures for Serious Misconduct
No further action unless misconduct is repeated. The written warning will be removed from your file after 12 months.
SEE SERIOUS MISCONDUCT PROCEDURES
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Disciplinary Procedures for Serious Misconduct Serious Misconduct – Stage 1 If it is alleged that you have committed Serious Misconduct, the matter will be immediately referred to the Divisional Manager/Student Services Manager who has the power to suspend for a period of up to 10 working days. If the Serious Misconduct involves punctuality or attendance problems the Divisional Manager/Student Services Manager may not suspend you but can give you notice to attend all your college sessions punctually until a disciplinary hearing is arranged. The College expects you to carry on with College work whilst you are suspended. Contact your Divisional Manager for guidance on work that you can do. Whilst you are suspended you must not enter any College premises, approach and College staff or take part in any College activities. The Principal (or any other available member of the Senior Management Team) will be informed and notification of your suspension/notice to attend will be sent to your parent(s)/guardian(s)/employer as appropriate. NB In the event of the offence occurring when the Divisional Manager is off the premises then any member of the College Senior Team or the Student Services Manager has the authority to ask you to leave the premises. Should you refuse leave, your parent(s)/guardian(s)/employer will be contacted as appropriate and asked to come to collect you. If contact cannot be made and you still refuse to leave, then the Police will be notified immediately to remove you. Within 5 working days of the start of your suspension/notice to attend, the Divisional Manager and Student Services Manager will decide on the appropriate course of action which will be either:If it is found that the alleged offence is Misconduct and not Serious Misconduct you will be transferred back to the Disciplinary Procedures for Misconduct. Or: If it is found that the alleged offence involves Serious Misconduct you will move to Stage 2 of Disciplinary Procedures for Serious Misconduct below: Serious Misconduct – Stage 2 A date for a Disciplinary Hearing will be set within 10 working days of your suspension or notice to attend. You will be notified of the date in writing. The suspension by the Divisional Manager will continue until the conclusion of the Disciplinary Hearing. The Disciplinary Panel will consist of : a. Two members of the College Management Team, one of whom will chair the hearing. b. The Student Services Manager or nominated deputy. c. A Note Taker d. The person who made the complaint or who referred you to the Divisional Manager can, however, request that their identity is not disclosed.
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e. You may bring a family member, friend, employer or other person to support you or to speak on your behalf but not a solicitor or barrister. Your representative can only speak after you have been asked all questions, and when invited to do so by the Chair. f. When all issues have been considered you and your representative will be asked to leave the room whilst the members of the panel make their decision. Following the hearing, you may: a. Be re-instated as there is no case to answer. b. Be re-instated and given a written warning or final written warning as to your future conduct*. c. Be excluded from College, either permanently or for a length of time decided by the panel. Should you be re-instated under such circumstances, then the Divisional Manager and the Personal/Course Tutor will offer you advice and issue an appropriate action plan/set of targets. Your progress will be monitored and the action plan/targets may be reviewed at such intervals as it is thought necessary by the staff involved for the remainder of the course or until such time as staff think it is unnecessary. Any further act of Serious Misconduct will result in another Disciplinary Hearing being called or automatic exclusion in the case of a final written warning being breached. The details and outcome of the Disciplinary Hearing will remain on your record for a minimum of 12 months unless the panel decides otherwise. Serious Misconduct Stage 3 – The Appeals Procedure You have the right to appeal against the decision made at the Disciplinary Hearing. Any such appeal must be made, in writing to the Principal, within 10 working days of the date of the Hearing. The Principal or the designated deputy will write to you, with 10 working days, to acknowledge receipt of your letter of appeal and also to inform you of the date of the Appeal Hearing. The Appeals Panel will comprise of: 1. The Principal or Vice Principal Curriculum who will chair the panel. 2. A member of the College Strategic Management Team, who has had no prior involvement in your case. 3. The Director of Business & Student Services 4. A Note Taker The procedure followed at the Appeal Hearing will be similar to the procedure that was followed at the Disciplinary Hearing.
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You have the right to be supported by a family member, friend, employer but not a solicitor or barrister. The Appeals Panel may decide to uphold the decision of the Disciplinary Panel or that your penalty should be reduced/increased or that no penalty should be given. N.B All correspondence will be sent 1st Class post The procedure is summarised in the following flow chart.
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Serious Misconduct Procedures - Summary An allegation of Serious Misconduct is made against you
Stage 1
Stage 2
A Divisional Manager or other designated member of staff will suspend you whilst the allegation is investigated. This will be confirmed in writing to you and your parent(s)/guardian(s)/employer(s).
Within 5 working days of the start of your suspension, an appropriate course of action will be decided by the Divisional Manager or other designated member of staff and the Student Services Manager. Within 10 days you will be ......
Reinstated, as there is no case to answer.
Referred to the Disciplinary Procedure for Misconduct.
You may bring a family member, friend, employer or other person to support you or to speak on your behalf but not a solicitor or barrister.
Given a date to attend a Disciplinary Panel. This will be confirmed in writing. Your parent(s)/guardian(s)/ employer(s) will be informed
Disciplinary Panel meets with you and your representative or if you do not attend the Panel considers the case in your absence. The Panel arrives at decision after considering the evidence.
You may then be ..... Reinstated, as there is no case to answer. Excluded permanently or for a length of time decided by the Disciplinary Panel. Reinstated under the conditions of the written or final written warning. This will be recorded and kept in your file. This will be confirmed in writing to you and your parent(s)/guardian(s)/employer(s). Any breach of these conditions will result in a referral back to the Disciplinary Panel or automatic exclusion.
You can appeal within 10 working days. The Appeals Panel may uphold the decision, reduce the penalty or find that no penalty should be given.
Stage 3
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