Student Handbook 2010 by Mark Rollins

Full Time Student Handbook

2010-2011 FULL-TIME STUDENTS

NAME: ______________________________________

COURSE: ____________________________________

STUDENT CARD NUMBER: ________________________

CONTENTS Contents Accidents Adult Guidance Adult Learning Grant (ALG) Additional Learning Support Alcohol APL Appeals Procedure (Relating to Assessment) Appeals Procedure (Serious Misconduct) Assessment and Examinations Attendance Building Management Rules Bullying Car Parking Car Parking Permit Chaplaincy Service Child and Vulnerable Adult Safeguarding College Code of Conduct (Rules and Regulations) College Sexual Health Nursing Service Complaints Procedures Connexions Counselling and Well Being Service Discrimination Disciplinary Guidance - Statement of Principles Disciplinary Procedures Disruptive and Unruly Behaviour Drug Abuse Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) Email Emergency Closure and Evacuation English Language Centre Enrichment Activities Environment and Sustainability Policy Equal Opportunities Examination Guidelines Failure to Pay College Fees Failure to Produce Set Work False Fire Alarms Financial Assistance and Student Welfare Food and Drink First Aid Functional Skills General Information • Notices • Insurance • Property Harassment Health and Safety Healthy Eating

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CONTENTS Contents Higher Education In Partnership with Employers In Partnership with the Local Community Inclusive Learning Team Jewellery Learning Resources Library Service Lift Use Litter Mobile Phones, MP3 Players and iPods Monthly Planner and Diary Nursery and Playgroup Facilities Offensive Weapons Pastoral Care Personal Details Plagiarism Pornography and Obscenity Punctuality and Lateness Reception Services References Refreshments and Shops Results and Certificates Security Skills for Life Centres Smoking Regulations Spitting Sport Student Charter Student Identity Card Student Liaison Officer Student Representatives (Student Reps) Student Services Centres Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association Study Support Sustainable Development Tape Recorders, Video Recorders, Cameras Teaching and Learning Technology Centres Theft Travel Shop Value Added System Vandalism Violence and Assault Web Sites and Email Welcome

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WELCOME Dear Student

Principal Cath Hurst

We are very happy that you have chosen to continue your education here at Wigan and Leigh College. We hope to make you feel welcome. 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 a handbook outlining a Learning Agreement. We work hard to maintain these standards. Please tell us if we fail in any way. Likewise, we will have high expectations of you and will be monitoring your progress. To help us continue with the very high standards of quality in our delivery of education and training for you, we have put together this handbook and organiser. This is your property; it contains valuable information. Please keep it safe. During your course, you will have access to 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.

PERSONAL DETAILS

Course ____________________________________________________ Faculty ____________________________________________________ Personal Tutor ________________________________________________ Personal Tutor’s telephone number ☎ (01942) ________________________ Divisional Manager ____________________________________________ Divisional Manager’s telephone number ☎ (01942) ____________________ Student Liaison Officer ☎ (01942) ________________________________ Reporting absences ☎ (01942) __________________________________ Fee Receipt Number __________________________________________ Student Identity Card Number ____________________________________ Students’ Association Number ____________________________________ College address Wigan and Leigh College PO Box 53 Parson’s Walk WIGAN WN1 1RS Tel: ☎ (01942) 761600 www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk 2

PASTORAL CARE Full-Time Students All full-time students are members of a Personal Tutor Group. Amongst other jobs, 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. If you have a problem of a personal nature that you feel you cannot discuss with your Personal Tutor, please contact your Divisional Manager, the Student Services Manager or the Counselling Service. If you wish to discuss a personal issue that is causing you concern or distress, trained counsellors are available and you can make an appointment through Student Services. Discussions are confidential. The counsellor will be able to explain to you just what this means. 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 Duty Team ☎ (01942) 828300 Adults’ Duty Team ☎ (01942) 828777

STUDENT SERVICES CENTRES 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 Centres are located at the following buildings:☎ (01942) Pagefield Building, Wigan Parson’s Walk, Wigan

☎ (01942) 761804 ☎ (01942) 761681

Sixth Form Centre, Leigh

☎ (01942) 761443

The services we offer are as follows: ☎ (01942) 761607 (Wigan) or ☎ (01942) 761438 (Leigh) ☎ (01942) 761607 ☎ (01942) 761601 ☎ (01942) 761438 ☎ (01942) 761687/78 (Wigan) or ☎ (01942) 761443 (Leigh) ☎ (01942) 761606/761807 ☎ (01942) 761606/761807

Adult Guidance/Student Adviser Accreditation of Prior Leaning (APL) College Admissions Higher Education Finance Higher Education Service Student Finance Welfare Advice

In addition to the above, enrolled students can access the following: Accommodation Information ☎ (01942) 761608 Careers Advice/Connexions Service (16-19 yrs) ☎ (01942) 761681 (Wigan) or ☎ (01942) 761443 (Leigh) Childcare Facilities (Wigan) ☎ (01942) 761807 Childcare Facilities (Image Centre, Leigh) ☎ (01942) 761145 Council Tax ☎ (01942) 761681 Counselling Service ☎ (01942) 761687 Students’ Association ☎ (01942) 761609

RECEPTION SERVICES Main College Switchboard

☎ (01942) 761600

If you are not sure which campus you need, simply phone our main switchboard number, where staff will be happy to help with your enquiry and ensure that you are put through to the appropriate department. Contact our Reception, Fees and Cash Offices at: Image Centre Pagefield, Wigan Parson’s Walk, Wigan Sixth Form Centre, Leigh

☎ (01942) 761142 ☎ (01942) 761819 ☎ (01942) 761681/1550 ☎ (01942) 761440

Reception, Fees and Cash Office Services At each building we offer the following services: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Collection of payments for course books, trips etc. Providing a meet and greet service, arranging for visitors to sign in and then to be directed Giving out prospectuses, course leaflets and general information Issuing duplicate receipts Issuing students’ and visitors’ car park passes Lost property Locating room numbers for classes Payment of Learner Support Fund and other hardship grants Point of collection of External and Internal mail Point of contact for Contractors and Deliveries Point of enrolment and payment of fees Point of payment for examination fees Point of payment of Invoices Sale of subsidised travel documents Setting up payment agreements

ADULT LEARNING GRANT Adult Learning Grant (ALG) To get up to £30 a week while you’re studying - around £1,000 a year* - to help pay for things like travel, books and materials you need to be: • •

between 19 and working age studying full time (150 guided learning hours a term) and attending regularly • doing your first full Level 2 or 3 qualification (includes BTEC, NVQ, AVCE, A- Level). It is not available to students on level 4 courses e.g. H.N.C, H.N.D or degree If you’re working part-time, or living at home, you could still get ALG. How much you get will depend on your income and benefits. Contact Student Services to get advice on the right course for you. They can help you apply for ALG. Telephone: ☎ (01942) 761607 (Wigan) ☎ (01942) 761438 (Leigh) * Terms and conditions apply. See EMA which has the same conditions. Please note ALG students are not paid bonuses.

ADDITIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT, INCLUSIVE LEARNING Additional Learning Support Disability Discrimination Act 1995 Part 4 Wigan and Leigh College is committed to ensuring that disabled people, including those with learning difficulties, are treated fairly. All 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 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 for an informal interview. Members of the Inclusive Learning can: • Assess support requirements • Give assistance with applications for Disabled Students Allowance (Higher Education) • Identify strengths and weaknesses • Liaise with teaching staff on your behalf • Loan specialist equipment • Maintain learner confidentiality at all times • Organise special considerations for examinations • Provide additional support following assessment • Provide an Inclusive Learning Officer (ILO) • Refer students to external agencies for further assessment

ADULT GUIDANCE, APL, ASSESSMENTS AND EXAMINATIONS Adult Guidance For assistance in finding the best course for your needs, information on other services at the College please contact: ☎ (01942)761607 (Wigan Campus) between 9am - 4.30pm ☎ (01942)761438 (Leigh Campus) between 9am - 4.30pm APL (Accreditation of Prior Learning) You may have learnt skills at work or at home that are not nationally recognised. APL is for anyone who has gained skills, knowledge or experience and wants these to be acknowledged and certified without necessarily having to attend a College course. After an interview to decide what qualification or level you might study for, you would be assigned a subject specialist, for oneto-one sessions to build up a portfolio of evidence. ☎ (01942) 761607 between 9am - 4.30pm for more information Assessments and examinations Assessment is the method of measuring your performance on your course. Entries to external examinations e.g. : GCSE, AS or A2 levels are your responsibility. Your tutor will tell you when exam entries are due as there is a College closing date for them. Notices will be posted around College informing you of the closing dates – please watch out for them. Entry forms are available from College offices and all forms must be checked and signed by the appropriate lecturers. Information regarding fees is available from College 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. A personal timetable for all GCSE and AS or A2 level exams will be issued - check your dates so that you can report any timetable clashes as early as possible to the examinations office. Information regarding dates, 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 or attends and does not attempt questions. 8

EXAMINATION GUIDELINES, RESULTS, APPEALS 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 acknowledged, 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 Students’ Association card will be accepted as proof 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 the exam date, results or certificates may be lost. Call or telephone the Examinations Office on ☎ 01942 761587 if you need any help Assessment Appeals Procedure Within College Assessment In the event of a student’s assessment grade not reflecting his or her reasonable expectations, 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 the student of the findings, in writing, within 14 days of the appeal being received. External Assessment GCSE, AS or A2 level, National Diploma, AVCE or similar Set appeals systems against external assessments are in existence. If you wish to appeal against gradings 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. 9

BUILDING MANAGEMENT RULES One entrance • Emergency exit doors are not to be used as entrances; they MUST be left closed except for emergency use. Security • All students, staff, visitors and contractors must wear identity badges, worn so that they can easily be seen, whilst on College premises. • Security incidents should be reported to a member of staff immediately. Smoking • Smoking is not permitted at Parson’s Walk, School for the Arts and Leigh Sixth Form Centre at the Leigh Sports Village. • Smoking is permitted at the and Image Centre sites at Leigh and the Pagefield site at Wigan but only in the smoking shelters provided. • Support from the Stop Smoking Service is available to staff and students. • Cigarette butts are litter. A ‘Fixed Penalty Charge’ can be issued. Please use bins provided. Gum Chewing • No gum chewing is permitted in the building, anyone seen chewing gum must be challenged and asked to put the gum in a litter bin. Mobile phones • All mobile phones must be switched-off or in silent mode in the classroom or workshop. • Camera phone images of College property and staff or students are not permitted unless written permission has been given by a member of staff 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) • Overalls, steel toe capped boots etc. must only be worn inside the workshop. Promotion of a litter free and tidy environment • Please do not drop litter-use the litter bins provided. • TIDY FRIDAY! Work towards leaving your area tidy on a Friday so that the cleaners can clean! Windows and blinds • Do not open the window on the twist position, this is unsafe. Windows must only be opened in the tilt position. If the window is not locked 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 if it is very windy. Please report any broken blinds immediately Energy Saving • Please ensure all lights, equipment and appliances are switched off after use • Adjust radiators to a comfortable temperature • Close all windows at the end of the session to conserve energy and reduce the College Carbon footprint These Rules are here to ensure your health, safety and securitybreaking them may result in disciplinary action. 10

CAR PARKING CAR PARKING INCLUDING MOTOR BIKES AND SCOOTERS There are limited spaces for vehicles to park at College, the College Policy is to promote walking, cycling, the use of public transport and car-sharing wherever possible. The Car Park Management system includes. • A registration fee for the use of the car park. Note that this does not guarantee a space. • The services of an external car clamping company. Provision for students - Wigan Centres The normal provision is suspended during building works. Students will be notified of new arrangements via: a. ‘Message of the day’ on the College intranet b. Notices displayed in College buildings and College receptions c. Information from their Personal and Subject tutors. Motorbikes and scooters must only be parked in the designated areas at all buildings where the low level bars are provided for attaching locks or chains. These are not to be confused with the higher level bars for cycles. At no time may College students’ vehicles be parked: a. On the access road between Parson’s Walk Building and School for the Arts. Parking here not only contravenes College Regulations, but also creates very serious problems for essential and emergency service vehicles and deliveries. b. In the parking area adjacent to the main entrance to School for the Arts. This is strictly private ground and is available for staff only. c. On the School for the Arts staff parking area (the upper level) d. In the access road to the Wigan Cricket Club adjacent to the entrance to Bull Hey Car Park.

CAR PARKING continued Provision for students - Leigh Centres Students attending any site are permitted to park cars on the Leigh Sixth Form Centre and Image Centre car parks. However normal provision may be suspended during building works. Guidance for car park users Students and staff may only park on College premises on the days they are attending College. The College cannot accept responsibility or entertain claims for the loss or damage to any student vehicles or their contents whilst parked on College premises or parking areas. • College Management are well aware of the problems caused by any perceived lack of parking space and do their utmost to provide facilities. Space is at a premium however 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 clamped. • Park only in a designated space. Parking outside of designated areas will result in your car being clamped. • Permits must be clearly displayed, failure to display will result in your car being clamped. • Permits must be transferred and displayed if you use another car • Personal permits can and will be withdrawn for repeated careless or inconsiderate parking and students will face disciplinary action. These regulations may be amended by the Governors subject to giving one month’s notice to the Staff Trade Unions and the Students’ Association. • Vehicles with a valid permit that are parked in designated areas will not be clamped.

CAR PARKING continued

Procedures to ensure the safe use of the car parks and internal roads • Keep to the advisory speed limits when using College Car parks, students breaking these speed limits will have their permits withdrawn and face disciplinary action. • Think of others and do not obstruct other vehicles • Where there are marked bays please park within the lines • Where there are no marked bays please park sensibly, with care to ensure space for other vehicles. How to obtain a permit • Students wishing to park on College car parks need to sign the agreement and pay the car park registration fee of £30 for full-time students and £20 for part-time students • Students register at reception to complete the forms and pay the fee. • Students with a disabled persons vehicle badge can apply to the Divisional Manager, Student Support on ☎ (01942) 761475 who will endeavour to provide a suitable parking space near their place of study and provide them with a permit.

CHAPLAINCY SERVICE, COLLEGE SEXUAL HEALTH NURSING SERVICE Chaplaincy Service in association with Wigan and Leigh College and Wigan and Leigh Faith Networks Wigan and Leigh College provides two contemplation rooms, at Parsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Walk and Sale Way respectively. Students and staff 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. There is a group of local ministers, all ordained or accredited by their faiths, who are very happy to support College students and staff who may need advice on spiritual or religious matters. They will strive to provide a service which is supportive and confidential and can offer specific religious activities, as requested by College groups or individuals, to help mark times of transition or celebration. Religious leaders have expressed interest in contributing to our Tutorial activities. Please ask your tutor if you are interested. Students can access the services via the HE and Progression Co-ordinator, Lois Messaoud on 01942 761678 or e-mail, with details to l.messaoud@wigan-leigh.ac.uk. Students of the College may keep up to date with developments and associated community links by reading the noticeboards in College regarding Chaplaincy and associated community matters. College Sexual Health Nursing Service It is 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, contraceptive pills and injections, contraceptive implants, Chlamydia testing and treatment, condoms, lube, pregnancy advice, emergency contraception and morning after pills, alcohol and drug referrals and free stop smoking advice. The College nurses are currently Liz Dobson, Debbie Mennim and Rachael Fitzpatrick who are available for drop in sessions in Leigh 6th Form Centre, and Parsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Walk.To see the nurses students can simply call in to one of the drop in sessions, contact their Student Liaison Officer, or call into Student Services. 14

COLLEGE SEXUAL HEALTH NURSING SERVICE (continued) It is important to note that the nurses are employed by Ashton, Wigan and Leigh Primary Care Trust and anything discussed with them will be kept confidential and separate from the College and its staff except in case of Child Protection or Vulnerable Adult issues. In such circumstances this would be discussed with you beforehand and you would be kept involved in the referral process. 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 no ask your Personal Tutor to book a nurse to deliver a tutorial on sexual health? Sexual health tutorials will be 45 minutes long. Please contact l.dobson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk to request a tutorial. Tutorials need to be requested well in advance and we will do our best to accommodate any request. Drop in sessions The drop in sessions for students are held at Parsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Walk (Sexual Health Centre at the rear of the Impact Centre) and at Leigh Sixth Form Centre (room 28 near water fountain) The clinic times can be found on notice boards within college, outside each clinic, from Student Liaison Officers and Student Services. Services not offered For first aid issues please contact first aiders â&#x20AC;&#x201C; contact details can be found in your course area office or in Student Services. College nurses are unable to issue pain relief such as paracetamol or to diagnose sprains, aches, pains or any other illnesses.

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 College’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. Stage 1 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 procedure for Stage 1 of the Complaints Procedure – How to make a complaint. Stage 2 Formal stage If you have experienced dissatisfaction with the outcome at the Stage 1 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 College’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 Stage 2 of the Complaints Procedure – How to make a complaint. 16

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES (continued) Before you make a formal complaint please read the guidance on pages 2 and 3. What is a formal complaint? A formal complaint is ‘any expression of dissatisfaction that requires a response’. Dissatisfaction might arise from your experiences relating to your programme of study or to other services provided by the College. Why have complaints procedures? The formal procedures are intended to ensure that all complaints are handled fairly, consistently, in a timely manner and wherever possible resolved to the complainant’s satisfaction. Who can complain? The formal procedure is available to students, the general public and external agencies. • Anonymous complaints are unlikely to be investigated under the Complaints Procedure. • Employees of the College should follow appropriate internal procedures. These might include grievances, complaints of harassment or bullying, discrimination or any other unprofessional conduct. These should be addressed through Human Resources. • Students should not experience any disadvantage if they lodge a complaint in good faith. • A chosen representative, for example a friend, parent or guardian may raise concerns on behalf of a student. This must be confirmed in writing by signing the Complaints Form CF1 as directed. The College has a contract with its students who must give permission for disclosure to another person. Discussing matters with parents or guardians without the student’s consent constitutes a breach of contract. • A class representative may raise student group complaints on behalf of the class only with the written consent and signature of all the students concerned. • Students bringing vexatious or malicious complaints may be subject to the student disciplinary procedures.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES continued 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 relates to Academic Appeals, then it will be treated under the Academic Appeals Procedure and reviewed by an appropriate committee. If your complaint appears to relate to the 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 and Student Services 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 concern relates to EMA and ALG funding and the issue has not been satisfactorily resolved through the informal stage, your formal complaint will be directed to the EMA or ALG Co-ordinator 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. This is in the form of a holding letter.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES continued 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. Stage 3 Internal appeals stage If you are not satisfied with the outcome of your complaint at Stage 2, you can ask for your case to be reviewed by an appeal panel by first contacting the Quality Coordinator within 10 working days of receiving the response. Follow the guidelines for Stage 3 of the Complaints Procedure â&#x20AC;&#x201C; How to make a complaint. 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. Stage 4 External Appeals If you remain dissatisfied after the internal appeal at Stage 3: If you are a student on a further education course you can currently take the complaint to an outside body, the Learning and Skills Council. This will be changing in the near future. The Quality Co-ordinator can advise you of any changes. You can do this by contacting the Learning and Skills Council, Floor 9, Arndale House, Arndale Centre, Manchester M4 3AQ. You may also appeal to the Governing Body.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES continued If you are a student on a Higher National Diploma or Certificate course at the College, you may appeal to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA). However, the OIA will not become involved in a complaint until the College’s procedures have been exhausted. You will be provided with a Completion of Procedures Letter at the end of Stage 3. This entitles you take the matter further. The OIA is an independent body. It deals with a wide range of student complaints, a list and examples of which are on the OIA’s website www.oiahe.org.uk. 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). If you are a member of the general public or an external agency you may appeal to the Governing Body of the College. How to make a complaint - the procedure 1 Stage 1 Informal Stage 1.1 If possible, you should try to discuss and resolve your concern directly and immediately with the person against whom there is a complaint. 1.2 If you are unable to deal directly with the person (or prefer not to) then you should raise the concern promptly with your class tutor, the course manager, your Personal Tutor, the Students Services team or the administration office of the curriculum or support area. 1.3 Make it clear that you wish to make an informal complaint. The most appropriate person to deal with your complaint will be contacted. 1.4 Bring the matter to the attention of the person dealing with the complaint within 5 working days after the incident giving rise to the complaint. 1.5 1.5 You may prefer issues to be raised on your behalf by a chosen representative, for example a friend, parent, or guardian. You will need to give your written consent. 1.6 If you fail to gain satisfaction through the informal stage then you can use the Stage 2 or Formal stage of the College’s Complaints Procedure for handling your complaint. 20

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES continued 2 Stage 2 Formal Stage 2.1 (a) If you fail to gain satisfaction through the informal stage, then you should pursue the matter through the formal procedures within 15 working days of the informal response being given. OR (b) If you wish to pursue the Formal stage of the College’s Complaints Procedure from the outset, then you must bring your complaint to the College’s attention within 12 working weeks of the stated occurrence of the complaint. 2.2 You can register a complaint by completing the first part of a complaint form. Complaint forms (CF1) are available from the administration office of any curriculum or support area, at Receptions or in the Advice and Guidance centres, or directly from the Quality Co-ordinator. 2.3 Make sure that your complaint is explained as clearly and fully as possible, preferably using the Complaints Form CF1. 2.4 Ask at Student Services for support in completion if necessary. The member of staff who provided you with the form will log your complaint and help you to complete the form if necessary. 2.5 The CF1 will ask you to declare whether the informal stage has been followed and why you have chosen to follow the formal route. 2.6 You should try to make clear any suggestions as to what that College should do to put things right. 2.7 If you prefer matters to be raised on your behalf by a chosen representative - for example a friend, parent, guardian – you will need to confirm this by signing the Complaints Form CF1 as directed. The College has a contract with its students and discussing matters with parents or guardians without the student’s consent constitutes a breach of contract. 2.8 If you are acting as a representative for a group of students you must ensure that each student gives written consent to their inclusion and signs the complaints form CF1 or accompanying letter. 2.9 Make sure you keep the white copy of the form. When the form is complete, tear off the white copy and keep it. The member of staff logging the complaint will keep the remainder of the form for distribution to the person investigating the complaint and to the Quality Coordinator in the College.

COMPLAINTS PROCEDURES continued 2.10 If you are not a current student in College then you may write, giving full details of your complaint to the Quality Coordinator. 2.11 You may be asked to provide further information to support your complaint as part of the investigation. Stage 3 Appeals Stage 3.1 If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the Formal stage you can write to the Quality Co-ordinator within 10 working days of receiving a response. You will be advised of a date for the appeal. You will be advised of your options for External appeal at Stage 4 as part of the appeal hearing should you wish to take the matter further. Stage 4 External Appeals Stage 4.1 If you are not satisfied with the outcome of the Internal appeal at Stage 3 you can take one of several options: 4.1.1 If you are a student on a further education course you can currently contact the Learning and Skills Council, 9th Floor, Arndale House, Arndale Centre, Manchester M4 3AQ. You may also appeal to the Governing Body. 4.1.2 If you are a student on a Higher National Diploma or Certificate course at the College, you may appeal to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA). The Completion of Procedures Letter at the end of Stage 3 entitles you take the matter further. The OIA’s website www.oiahe.org.uk. 4.1.3 If you are a student studying at College on a higher education programme linked to a partner University 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). 4.1.4 If you are a member of the general public or an external agency you may appeal to the Governing Body. Contact details for the Quality Coordinator: Address : Wigan and Leigh College, PO Box 53, Parson’s Walk, Wigan, WN1 1RS Telephone: 01942 761623 E-mail: k.howard@wigan-leigh.ac.uk

CONNEXIONS, COUNSELLING AND WELL BEING SERVICE Connexions Connexions is a service for all young people aged between 13 and 19. Whether you have problems or just want some friendly advice, we are here to help you with: • Accommodation or homelessness • 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 Connexions Personal Adviser. Available on request from the Counselling and Well Being Service. The Professional Conduct Procedure can be activated only after local procedures have been implemented. Counselling and Well Being Service Counselling gives you the opportunity to discuss, in confidence, any issues that may be causing concern. Counsellors do not advise or tell you what you should do; instead they help you to find your own solutions to problems. ☎ (01942) 761687 between 9am - 5pm or call into Student Services to make an appointment, or speak to a member of staff to help you make an appointment Guidelines for making a complaint against the Counselling Service If you decide to make a complaint about the Counselling and Well Being Service you should refer to and follow the College Complaints Procedure. A copy of this is available in your Student Handbook, or you can obtain a copy from any curriculum or support area, or from Student Services or Receptions. Please note that once you commence the formal College Complaints Procedure, you are subject to general College procedures. This means that your complaint will be handled in a sensitive manner. Consultation with others on a ‘need to know basis’ may be undertaken as part of the investigative process in order to resolve the complaint. You must be aware that confidentiality, as indicated in your agreement or contract, may need to be broken in order to resolve the complaint satisfactorily. Complainants who are not satisfied with the outcome are advised that they may appeal in the first instance to the College Quality Co-ordinator, or a senior member of the college staff. If still dissatisfied complaints may be directed to the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) who will instigate a Professional Conduct Procedure. A copy of this procedure is available on request from the Counselling and Well Being Service. The Professional Conduct Procedure can be activated only after local procedures have been implemented. 23

ENGLISH LANGUAGE CENTRE, ENRICHMENT English Language Centre (If Your First Language is not English) For help with your English to study and do homework, Language Support is available from staff in the ESOL Centre. Enrichment Activities Your academic course is only part of your overall educational experience at the College. In addition to the activities which are part of some courses, for example, field trips, theatre visits and foreign exchanges, the College provides a range of additional activities for you to satisfy your leisure, sporting or other interests or to develop wider skills to help you in your career. The activities include outdoor pursuits, sports, health and care, business studies, information technology and languages. Employers and Higher Education admission tutors are looking not only for academic qualifications, but also for students with varied interests, good communication and organisational skills, the ability to work in a team, plus personal qualities such as determination and initiative. Sport enrichment opportunities include Men's Football Mixed Hockey Netball Rugby League Martial Arts (Self Defence) Women's Football Outdoor Activities College representative teams usually participate on a Wednesday afternoon and compete at local, national and international level. Other Enrichment In addition there will be educational visits, trips and guest speakers organised in your subject area; examples are trips to New York and Amsterdam. Please ask your Personal Tutor for details. If you wish to do an activity not identified, please ask for it to be considered contact the FESCO co-ordinator on â&#x2DC;&#x17D; (01942) 761588/761168

ENVIRONMENT and SUSTAINABILITY POLICY Sustainable Development Wigan & Leigh College has a sustainable development policy that everyone is required to support and comply with. The following sections relate to the sustainable development policy which can be found on the college intranet. Energy We are a 10:10 college; this means that we are part of a national campaign to cut our carbon emissions by 10% between April 2010 and April 2011. To do this we need to make sure that we are all doing the following simple things: • Turn computers off at the base unit at the end of the day. • Switch lights off when you leave the room or when there is sufficient natural light. • Use the controls on the radiators to adjust the heating to a comfortable temperature. • Turn radiators off before opening the windows. • Close all windows before leaving the room. Waste We recycle 65% of our general waste through our waste contractor, Blakeley’s Waste Management Ltd. We are fortunate that they separate out our recyclables at their site so we do not have to do it at college. We do ask that all paper is put in the green paper recycling bins as this is taken away by Wigan Council separately from our general waste. 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. Smoking • Smoking is not permitted at Parson’s Walk, School for the Arts and Leigh Sixth Form at the Leigh Sports Village. • Support from the Stop Smoking Service is available to staff and students. • Cigarette butts are litter. A ‘Fixed Penalty Charge' of £80 can and will be issued to anyone caught dropping cigarette butts on the floor. Please use the bins provided. 25

ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY POLICY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND STUDENT WELFARE Want to participate in environmental activities? • Talk to the Sustainable Development Officer on ☎ (01942) 761570. • Form an environment group in your subject area/faculty. • Join environmental conservation groups such as BTCV or Groundwork working in the local area. • Join the Students’ Association to influence decisions about the college environment. Health and Wellbeing The College has achieved Healthy College status and is actively promoting healthy lifestyles. Some health issues will be discussed during tutorials and guest speakers will be available. Healthy eating Chartwells, the contract caterer at Wigan and Leigh College, will ensure that Healthy Eating practices are promoted through the daily menu choice available in the refectories and shops. We will continue to work with the NHS 5 a day co-ordinator to incorporate Healthy Promotions throughout the year. College will be giving help and advice from the College Nurse through the tutorial system and links with the Primary Care Trust regarding drinking adequate water, eating fresh fruit and vegetables. Are You Eating 5 Portions Of Fruit And Vegetables A Day? Financial Assistance and Student Welfare Please contact Student Services or Reception for more details about grants, financial support available and welfare issues: • Adult Learning Grant • Career Development Loans (CDLs) • Charities or Bursaries • College Hardship Funds • Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) • Fee waivers • Financial Assistance for 16-18 year old students • Financial Assistance for 19 plus students • GMPTE Scholars’ Travel Permits and College Subsidised Travel • Higher Education Access to Learning Fund • Hindley and Abram Grammar School Trust • New Deal for Lone Parents • Student Loans • Wigan Foundation for Technical Education Trustees Welfare Fund 26

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT POLICY STATEMENT 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. General Information Telephone calls on behalf of students will only be accepted in an emergency. 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 Premises Manager. 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 Service Operatives keep details of lost property in each building. If in doubt, check at the Reception Desks.

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT POLICY STATEMENT continued Health and Safety Wigan and Leigh college promote the ‘Safe Learner’ ideal 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 are developing a Health and Safety Management System. In your Induction to College, you will be made aware of the procedures and safe working practices relating to the Health and Safety 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, parents or guardians and employers should check the college website at http://www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk for further details of times of opening and any update on the situation. If we hold your mobile number, you must notify College reception staff if you do not want to be contacted in the possible event of a building closure or any other issue that may affect business continuity. 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. i.e. in a wheelchair or using a walking aid 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. 28

HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT POLICY STATEMENT continued First Aid • Trained First Aid personnel are available, their names and telephone numbers are displayed throughout the college Safety Concerns • If you have any concerns in relation to Health and Safety, please inform your Personal Tutor or Lecturer, who will ensure that it is investigated Protective Clothing and Equipment • All students must ensure that they have suitable protective clothing for use 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 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 issues of their course at all times. Students on Hair and Beauty courses for example must follow the rules of the area. (see the Image Centre guidance notes for students). Breaches will be dealt under the college disciplinary procedures.

HIGHER EDUCATION Higher Education Applying to university or finding out more about your next career step Our Higher Education and Progression Coordinator, Lois Messaoud, works with tutors to provide information, advice and guidance to College students. She is happy to assist tutors as they arrange group talks for all A Level, BTEC, Diploma, Access and other Level 3 groups, at various points before students apply to university. After or before their talk, students who wish to apply to university are invited to make appointments with Lois by ringing ☎(01942) 761678 or ☎ (01942) 761463. Parents, Guardians or Carers can be present at these individual appointments, with the student’s agreement. Students on Level 1 or Level 2 courses may also wish to make an appointment with Lois or a Student Advisor for guidance on their future career path. Appointments will take place at Student Services, Parson’s Walk, Wigan or Sixth Form Centre, Leigh. At Student Services in Parson’s Walk and Sale Way, 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 our VLE (Virtual Learning Environment). University applications generally go through UCAS, the Universities’ and Colleges’ Admissions Service. However, if you are applying for a Higher Education course at Wigan and Leigh College, we have our own paper based application form. Students can find these forms and Higher Education prospectuses at each of our Student Service areas. Many students feel apprehensive about applying to university or worried about the Personal Statement part of their application form. At Student Services, we can provide guidance. Lois also works with tutors to provide the most supportive reference for your application. As long as you go through the College system by putting in our unique College buzzword, which changes each year, we can check everything on your online application before it is sent off. Full instructions are available on the VLE or can be obtained from Student Services Students will be aware that applying to university can be very competitive. Our records show that early application, before the autumn half term, if possible, is the best way to avoid disappointment. 30

IN PARTNERSHIP In Partnership with the local Community a. We wish to be responsive to the needs of the local community and encourage you to comment upon our services by contacting the Directorate of Enterprise and Partnerships. b. If you are part of the community served by the College, we aim to ensure that you will be informed of the education, recreational and other facilities available: • Via local libraries and public information displays • By publishing in the local press • Directly on request In Partnership with Employers c. If you are an employer and make use of the College, we will, when required, provide you with: • A list of contacts in the event of a query to ensure that your enquiry is handled quickly and efficiently • A list of governors, an explanation of their role in the College and the means or methods of contacting them through the Clerk to the Governors • Clear and concise information about students to aid your recruitment process • Information about ways in which you can play a part in helping the College to respond to the education and training development needs of the local business community d. If your employees are on College courses financed by you, the College aims to provide you with: • Clear and accurate information on request about those courses, course options and the implications for you and your employees in terms of the fees and the time to be devoted to study • Information on request on methods of teaching, study and assessment • High quality teaching and management of learning for your employees

FUNCTIONAL SKILLS Functional Skills All students will take one or more Functional Skills qualifications in Communication, Application of Number and Information Technology. Functional Skills are an integral part of the course for full-time students. Students on a Foundation Learning Programme or on one of the 14-19 Diplomas offered at the college will study for all three Functional Skills at the appropriate level. Functional Skills will build on subjects like Maths, ICT and English. They are very different to the topics you are learned at school. Unlike the Maths, English and ICT lessons you may have had at school, at College you are more likely to develop the skills and apply them within a vocational setting.

LEARNING RESOURCES Learning Resources Provides a wide range of services and facilities to meet the needs of students and staff whilst at the College. These services include four cross College library facilities, six open access information and communication technology centres, one virtual library, a language lab, video conferencing and video technology resources and the strategic management of 41 IT suites. Library Service The Library Service is a dynamic resource that supports the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instructional and educational programmes by providing print, non-print, e-resources and other media in open access facilities. We provide resources and facilities for study, research, browsing, self-improvement and enjoyment. The Library Serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mandate is to promote, support, and encourage information literacy; the ability to locate, evaluate, and use information to become an independent life-long learner. All centres offer access for learners with mobility difficulties. Technology Centres Technology Centres are information and communication technology resources offering access to the Internet and a wide range of software programs and equipment. We operate a policy of student-centred learning; self-supported study as far as possible using computer programs, worksheets and other learning materials; (both traditional and electronic) with skilled and experienced technologists available when needed. All centres offer access for learners with mobility difficulties.

LIFT USE AT WIGAN AND LEIGH COLLEGE Lift Use To promote health and well-being and improve access for students and staff with a disability the use of lifts is restricted to: • Visitors • Goods • Students and staff with a specific disability or when carrying a heavy load. The exception to this restriction is at Parson’s Walk building where students may only use the lift when travelling more than three floors. Students must consider the needs of others before using any lift in any building. Remember - the stairs are often faster and promote fitness. Disciplinary action will be taken against students who do not follow this procedure.

NURSERY AND PLAYGROUP FACILITIES NURSERY AND PLAYGROUP FACILITIES OFSTED registered in accordance with National Standards. Our team of suitably qualified and experienced staff provide full and part-time day care for a maximum of 46 children at any one time, aged between 0-5 years at our purpose built nursery in the Foundation Centre, Walmesley Road, Leigh. Open 8-45am - 5.00pm, Monday - Friday term-time. The nursery aims to: • Meet children’s individual needs and promote their welfare • Plan and provide activities and play opportunities to develop children’s emotional, physical, social and intellectual capabilities • Promote equality of opportunity and anti-discriminatory practice for all children • Work in partnership with parents, carers and other agencies to meet the needs of the children. To ensure maximum and efficient utilisation of the facility students need to be enrolled on a College course and have an accurate timetable. For further information please contact Hilary Wilford ☎ (01942) 761145 Or Hilary McClean ☎ (01942) 761807

REFERENCES, REFRESHMENTS AND SHOPS References Potential employers or agencies may in the future 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 to disclose this to potential employers or agencies. To facilitate this process you should complete a form before you leave college giving us permission to provide this information. Forms can be obtained through Student Services or from your Personal Tutor. Refreshments and Retail Shops Chartwells operate the 6 Refectories, 1 Retail Shop and the Vending Services across all sites, offering a comprehensive range of Breakfast and Lunch items with an Evening Service available at the Image Centre, Parson’s Walk, Pagefield and Leigh Sixth Form Centre. Pagefield Parson’s Walk Coffee Bar Parson’s Walk Main Counter Parson’s Walk Retail School of the Arts

Leigh 6th Form Centre

Image Centre

8.30am - 5.45pm 8.30am - 2.00pm 9.30am - 3.00pm 9.30am - 1.30pm 8.30am - 2.00pm 8.30am - 5.45pm 8.30am - 2.30pm 8.30am - 3.00pm 8.30am - 2.00pm 8.30am - 4.00pm 8.30am - 3.00pm 8.30am - 2.00pm 8.30am - 4.45pm 8.30am - 2.00pm

Mon - Thurs Friday Mon - Thurs Friday Mon - Fri Mon - Thurs Friday Mon - Thurs Friday Mon, Tues, Thurs Wednesday Friday Mon - Thurs Friday

REFRESHMENTS AND SHOPS All times are subject to change throughout the year Vending service is available on all sites 24hr. If you have any comments or suggestions to improve the service we offer please contact: Judith Peak, Group Manager ☎ (01942) 761602 (Parson’s Walk) Catering Supervisors Parson’s Walk - TBA Parson’s Walk Retail, Barbara Parson’s Walk, School for the Arts, Marg Pagefield, Andrea Leigh Sixth Form Centre, Alison Image Centre, Kay

☎ ☎ ☎ ☎ ☎ ☎

(01942) 761686 (01942) 761549 (01942) 761195 (01942) 761818 (01942) 761469 (01942) 761113

LOOK OUT FOR OUR REGULAR SPECIAL OFFERS AND PROMOTIONS A Retail Shop is situated at Parson’s Walk for your Snacks, Beverages, Stationery and Distress Items. 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 Opening times: Mon-Thur 09:00-16:30 Fri 09:00-16:00

SKILLS FOR LIFE CENTRES, STUDENT CHARTER Skills for Life Centres For help with English and Maths, students can use the Study Skills Centres in the Borough, for qualifications accredited by Open College of the North West and City and Guilds. Student Charter This Charter can be provided in larger typeface, in Braille, in other languages, on disk, on audio cassette or read to you on request. Introduction The purpose of this Charter is to outline what you can expect from Wigan and Leigh College as a school leaver, adult student, employer or any other member of the local community. The Charter is also one of the methods we use to help us improve the quality of our service. If you have any comments on the content and scope of this Charter please contact the Quality Coordinator through the College Reception ☎ (01942) 761623. Choosing Your Course The College’s policy is that all information, advice and guidance should be impartial and based upon what is most suitable for you, the student. The College aims to provide information that is up-to-date, readily available and contains accurate statements about: • Arrangements for work placements, where relevant • Details of how the College helps students with accommodation • Entry requirements including accreditation of prior learning arrangements • Exact title of each programme and qualification to be gained • Facilities and requirements relevant to overseas students • Fees and additional costs, such as examination fees, books and equipment • General content and structure of each programme • Length of programme • Modes of teaching, assessment and study e.g.: full-time, part-time number of hours and times of study • Progression: what each programme may lead to in employment, further education and higher education • Support services and facilities available • The College’s approach to students with learning difficulties and or disabilities • The scope for obtaining transferable credits 38

STUDENT CHARTER continued Copies of the College prospectus and course leaflets are available from all Reception areas. Relevant parts of these documents can also be obtained by post on request. The College will make available information on how it is performing, including: • Comparative examination results as published by the Department for Education and Skills • Examination results for the College • A summary of what students go on to do when they leave • Copies of the summary of any Funding Council report on the College and of any response made Getting Your Place at Wigan and Leigh College All applications for full-time, part-time, Further Education or Higher Education will be monitored by Central Admissions. All prospective students concerned about their application can contact Central Admissions ☎ (01942) 761601. Central Admissions will endeavour to deal with all applications promptly within the following targets: • Acknowledgement of application will be sent within 3 working days of receipt • All interviews will take place in private with competent and trained staff • Interviews will normally take place within 6 weeks of application • Interviewees will be informed of the outcome, in writing, within 7 working days of the interview • Parent(s) or Guardian(s) will be invited to the interview for students under 18 years of age At enrolment students previously interviewed can choose to have an additional interview to review their course in the light of any changes. Those not previously interviewed will be offered the opportunity of a general interview with an appropriate member of staff You are entitled to study at Wigan and Leigh College if: • We offer you the choice of course • You meet the entry requirements for the course • There is a place available on the course NB: courses will only run if there are sufficient student numbers At enrolment you will be asked to sign a Learning Agreement (the enrolment form) which will inform you about what the College expects from you and what you can expect from the College. 39

STUDENT CHARTER continued, IDENTITY CARDS AND STUDENT REPRESENTATIVES Equal Opportunities 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 have and to make available appropriate support and resources to enable you to access the curriculum. The above is a summary of the Single Equality Scheme. A full version is available on request from your Faculty Administration Office. Student Identity Card The college issues student cards free of charge when you enrol. These cards are to give you access to the college buildings, facilities and resources such as libraries and Learning Resource Centres in the college. Your badge must be worn at all times whilst on college premises and produced to college staff if they request to see it. Failure to produce your student card may lead to disciplinary action being taken against you. Do not allow your card to be used by anybody else. The college will take disciplinary action against students who lend and students who borrow identity cards. If you forget your card a 48 hour temporary card is available from receptions for 50p. You can only have one temporary card during your academic year. You will be charged a replacement fee if you lose your card. A replacement can be purchased for ÂŁ5.00 until 1st April. After this date the cost is reduced to ÂŁ2.00. Student Representatives Each course has at least one Student Representative (Student Rep). The student(s) will attend Course Curriculum Meetings to advise on student curriculum concerns. If you would like to become more involved in supporting the interests of your fellow students in this way, speak to your Course Tutor or Personal Tutor.

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE CONTINUED, STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION, STUDY SUPPORT 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 will also bring other benefits. It will develop skills such as negotiation, assertiveness, personal organisation and communication. Holding a position of responsibility also looks good on a C.V. Do I 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’ Association Council and come along to the monthly meetings. Ask your Course Tutor or Personal Tutor for an application form or ring ☎ (01942) 761609. Students’ Association You are entitled to FREE membership of the Students’ Association. Ask your tutor for an application form, or call into Student Services and pick an application form up. Details of the benefits include discounts from local shops and services, meetings and further involvement in the running of the College by joining by allocating the Students’ Association budget to help finance student activities. 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. Ring ☎ (01942) 761609 between 9am - 4.30pm for more information. Study Support All students are entitled to help with numeracy or literacy to support their studies. You may request Study Support via your Personal Tutor or Class Tutor

TEACHING AND LEARNING Teaching and Learning Programmes of study will have a period of introduction, 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 from 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: â&#x20AC;˘ Effective teaching, including regular setting of work, prompt marking and relevant feedback â&#x20AC;˘ Programmes which meet relevant assessment requirements, comprising of a sound and logical course of study, leading to a qualification of value outside the College â&#x20AC;˘ 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. You will have the opportunity to participate in social, cultural, leisure and sporting activities, as well as having access to learning resources (libraries and technology centres). Opportunities are available to enable you to develop study skills. 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 simulations, industrial awareness, conferences and work shadowing.

VALUE ADDED SYSTEM Value Added System 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. N.B Although GCSE achievements do give some indication of future performance, they are not the only factor which affect the results. Your level of motivation and commitment, for example will undoubtedly affect your academic success.

COLLEGE CODE OF CONDUCT FOR STUDENTS (RULES AND REGULATIONS) 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 practices. 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 premises, 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 observe the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rules and Regulations as set out below: Any breaches of the Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rules may result in disciplinary action being taken. Alcohol Consumption of alcohol is only allowed in designated areas and within the constraints of the law. 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 Attendance Regular and punctual attendance is required for all timetabled activities on and off College premises. Remember: 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 your Student Liaison Officer (SLO), who will then inform your Personal Tutor. Do not ring the Student Helpline. If you do not ring in, your absence will be classed as unauthorised. Any unauthorised absence will result in an investigation by your 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, EMA or Adult Learning Grant • Work placement • Your ability to pass the course and your ability to gain your qualification Persistent unauthorised absence, 3 occasions per term, 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 your 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. 45

BULLYING AND DISCRIMINATION 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 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 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.

HARASSMENT continued, DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOUR, DRUG ABUSE Sexual Harassment 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. 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 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. 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 are: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;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&#x20AC;&#x2122;. If you are found to be involved with drugs illegally, you must expect the involvement of the Police and your exclusion from the College.

EDUCATIONAL MAINTENANCE ALLOWANCE (EMA) EMA The Educational Maintenance Allowance is paid to eligible students aged 1619 attending a qualifying course of study for 12 hours or more a week. The College follows National Guidelines in determining if you are to receive your weekly payment. You will be given a copy of the Student Guidelines. We expect you to show: 1. 100% Attendance and punctuality each week. 2. Attending all examinations or assessments and submitting all set work on time. 3. Agreeing to speak to appropriate College or Careers staff before changing courses or College. 4. Informing the College regarding withdrawal from the course or transfer to another course. 5. Following acceptable standards of behaviour and the College Code of Conduct in any learning environment or any College organised activity. Absences EMA will be paid for very few types of absence. These are given below and you must meet the required conditions by giving notice or supplying evidence. No other types of absences are allowed. • Totals of 3 occasions or 7 days total sickness absence in an academic year will lead to loss of EMA payment. • EMA is attendance based and is not a type of ‘Sick Pay’. If you are absent, then expect not to be paid. Also, totals of 3 ‘lates’ per term can lead to loss of payment. • When the absence reaches 50% of course study days the College cannot authorise any payment. It is your responsibility to hand in a fully completed weekly time sheet to your Personal Tutor at the designated time. If you fail to carry out your responsibility by not handing in a completed form on time, you may lose your entitlement to EMA for that week. When you are absent for any reason, please telephone your SLO, who will then inform your Personal Tutor. If you do not ring in, your absence will be classed as unauthorised and if entitled to Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) you will have your payment withheld.

EDUCATIONAL MAINTENANCE ALLOWANCE continued EMA Payments Please note that we can only discuss your EMA payments with you not with a parent or another individual because of Data Protection issues. EMA payments are paid into your bank account and are your responsibility. Appeals You can make an informal appeal against a College decision not to authorise payment. You must do this within 15 working days (three weeks) of the weekly payment or bonus payment not being authorised. Before you appeal, you must check that you have satisfied all the necessary conditions. In the first instance you must speak to your Personal Tutor, designated EMA or ALG administrator. If you are not satisfied with this outcome you can make a formal written appeal on a CF1 form. Your appeal can be investigated by the College Quality Coordinator. Forms are available from the Faculty administration office or Student Services. In the event that you are dissatisfied with the way in which your appeal has been dealt with you may complain to the relevant funding body. This information will be given in the reply to your complaint. Bonus payments. If you are an EMA student, you are agreeing to the following statement by signing the learning agreement. I understand that the College will arrange for my learning progress to be assessed in order to determine my eligibility for an EMA bonus in January and or July. Learning progress will be assessed on the basis of completion of relevant coursework and or assignments, on time and to the best of my ability, and attendance at examinations and satisfactory behaviour. When a student is suspended, EMA payments stop. The disciplinary panel will then make a decision on whether to reinstate or backdate payments. Do not try to obtain your EMA payment by signing a member of staffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name or a supervising personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name on a work placement. This is fraud and is classed as Serious Misconduct. Your payment(s) will be stopped and you will face a Disciplinary Hearing and possible Police involvement. The relevant funding body will be informed.

FAILURE TO PAY, FALSE ALARMS, FOOD AND DRINK, MOBILE PHONES AND OFFENSIVE WEAPONS Failure to pay college fees Failure to pay college fees within specified deadlines will be treated as Serious Misconduct and disciplinary action may be taken. 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 disciplinary action being taken. 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 may 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, PORNOGRAPHY AND OBSCENITY 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. This includes copying work from other students. Please ensure that in the presentation of your work for assessment, you acknowledge the work of others that appear in your work, by using the Harvard Referencing System. We expect you to use references and brief quotations from a range of sources in your work, but using such references without acknowledgement of the source is plagiarism. The substantial paraphrasing (restatement of the sense of a passage) of someone else’s work without acknowledgement is also plagiarism. If you need further explanation on this issue, please ask your Personal Tutor. 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 will result in disciplinary action being taken. 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.

PUNCTUALITY AND LATENESS, SECURITY Punctuality and Lateness We expect you to be in class or in your work placement or visit, ready to start at the beginning of the session. Missing the beginning of the session will disrupt the learning of your fellow students and hinder your own progress. If you miss the beginning of your learning session, you are late and the Student Liaison Officer will be informed. More than 3 lates per term will be investigated and disciplinary action may be taken. EMA and ALG students may face loss of payment. Persistent lateness will result in disciplinary proceedings being started against you and may eventually result in a disciplinary hearing and your exclusion from the college. Security Safety and security is everyone's responsibility. You must wear your Identity cards 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.

NO SMOKING REGULATIONS, SPITTING, TAPE RECORDERS, VIDEO RECORDERS AND CAMERAS No Smoking Policy 1. Smoking is not permitted at Parson’s Walk, School for the Arts and Leigh Sixth Form Centre at the Leigh Sports Village. 2. Smoking is permitted at the Image Centre site at Leigh and the Pagefield site at Wigan but only in the smoking shelters provided. 3. The Policy applies to all users of the college – students, staff, visitors and contractors. 4. Information regarding the Policy will be provided to all staff and students at induction. 5. Visitors and contractors shall be informed of the Policy on arrival by reception staff or their college contact. 6. Signs and information will be posted to inform everyone of the sites or areas where smoking is not permitted and the location of smoking shelters. 7. Staff, students and visitors are requested to have respect for the environment and consideration for neighbours when smoking offsite. Cigarette ‘butts’ or ‘stubs’ are litter and must be placed in an appropriate bin. Failure to do so is an offence and subject to a Fixed Penalty Charge of £75 or a court fine of up £2500. 8. The success of the Policy depends upon the support of all staff, students and visitors. Everyone, smoker and non-smoker, is asked to support these regulations by asking anyone smoking in non-permitted areas to move to the smoking shelter or to leave the premises. 9. The College will work in partnership with the Primary Care Trust (PCT) smoking cessation team to support staff and students who wish to stop smoking. Contact the College Nurse or your Student Liaison Officer for details of smoking cessation. 10. Failure to comply with the Policy may result in disciplinary action being taken against you. Spitting We do not expect students to spit. Any student found doing so may be disciplined. Tape recorders, Video recorders and Cameras You may only use a tape, video recorder, camera or mobile phone camera in College as part of a College course of study. You may not otherwise record conversations or images without written permission of the course tutor and the person(s) that you are recording. This includes the use of mobile phones. 54

THEFT, VANDALISM, VIOLENCE OR ASSAULT, WEB SITES AND EMAIL Theft Everyone is responsible for 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. Vandalism Deliberate damage to College property, including buildings, equipment, computers, software, books, furnishings or other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal property will not 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 During lessons or self study sessions you may only access web sites and email as directed by a staff member or approved by the College. These do not include social networking sites such as Facebook and Myspace nor do they include any sites which contain violent, pornographic imagery, text or materials that may cause offence to others. You are provided with a College email account. Use this account sensibly and look at your emails at least once a day for College messages. If you send emails which bring the College into disrepute, you may be disciplined. Posting or emailing statements, diagrams or photographs about other College students or members of staff on web sites may involve you in disciplinary proceedings for harassment, Police action and possible civil court action. Accessing violent or pornographic images or text may also lead to disciplinary action by the College and may also involve action against you by the police. 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. 55

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES What is Misconduct and Serious Misconduct? There are two categories of offence which may result in disciplinary action: 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 • Repeated failure to submit work by the deadline set • Repeated failure to wear ID cards • Smoking in unauthorised areas. 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. EMA, Learning Support, Care to Learn, 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 Child 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 Child and Vulnerable Adult Protection Officer. This will be done by the investigating Divisional Manager for Misconduct or the Student Services Manager or his nominated deputy when the investigation is for Serious Misconduct. 56

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES continued Serious Misconduct leading to automatic exclusion from the College • Failure to comply with the terms of a final written warning from a disciplinary panel. • Possession or 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. DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES FOR MISCONDUCT Misconduct Stage 1 - Verbal Warning If you commit Misconduct, any member of staff can issue a verbal warning for Misconduct. This will be reported to your Personal Tutor and or recorded on your file. It will remain on your file for 60 working days You will receive a copy of the verbal warning. 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 Stage 2 below: Misconduct Stage 2 - Written Warning A Divisional Manager will issue you with a written warning. Where applicable parent(s) or guardian(s) or employer(s) and the Student Services Manager 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 re-offend then you will move to Stage 3 below: Misconduct Stage 3 - Involvement of Student Services Manager A Divisional Manager will refer the matter as Serious Misconduct to the Student Services Manager. You will be transferred to stage 1 of Serious Misconduct below. The procedure is summarised in the following flow chart.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES continued Misconduct Procedures - Summary

Stage 1 Verbal Warning

If you commit misconduct, any member of staff can issue a verbal warning for misconduct This will be recorded and kept by your Personal Tutor in your file The Divisional Manager will be informed. You will be given g a copy. 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. Where appropriate a copy will be sent to your parent(s) or guardians(s) or employer(s). You will be given a copy. An action plan for improvement will be agreed with the Divisional Manager or other designated member of staff and reviewed in 2 weeks. The relevant Assistant Ass Principal will be informed.

SEE SERIOUS MISCONDUCT PROCEDURES

YES Y ES No No further further action action unless misconduct m isconduct unless is repeated repeated is The verbal verbal warning warning The will b e rremoved em oved will be from your your file file after after from 60 working working d ays 60 days

Review meeting in 2 weeks

Improvement?

NO You will be referred to the Student Services Manager and moved onto the disciplinary procedure for Serious Misconduct

YES No fu No further rther action a ction unless unless misconduct m isconduct iis s rrepeated epeated The T he written written warning will be w arning w ill b e rremoved emoved fr om from yyour our fifile le after after 1 2 months months 12

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES continued 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 or 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 or Student Services Manager may not suspend you but may 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 any College staff or take part in any College activities. The Principal (or any other available member of the Strategic Management Team) will be informed and notification of your suspension or notice to attend will be sent to your parent(s), guardian(s) or employer(s) as appropriate. N.B. In the event of the offence occurring when the Divisional Manager is off the premises then any member of the College Strategic Management Team or the Student Services Manager has the authority to ask you to leave the premises. Should you refuse to leave your parent(s) or guardian(s) or employer(s) 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 or notice to attend, the Divisional Manager and Student Services Manager will decide on the appropriate course of action, which will be :Either: That you are reinstated, as there is no case to answer. If it is found that the alleged offence is Misconduct and not Serious Misconduct, then you will be transferred back to the Disciplinary Procedures for Misconduct. Or: That the alleged offence involves Serious Misconduct then 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. 59

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES continued The Disciplinary Panel will consist of: a. Two members of the College Strategic Management Team, or their nominated deputies, one of whom will chair the hearing. b.The Student Services Manager or his deputy. c. A Secretary. d. The person or persons who made the complaint or who referred you to the Divisional Manager can, however, request that anonymity is maintained. 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 or Course Tutor will offer you advice and issue an appropriate action plan or set of targets. Your progress will be monitored and the action plan or targets may be reviewed at such intervals as is thought necessary by the staff involved, for the remainder of the course or until such a time as staff think that it is unnecessary. Any further acts 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.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES continued 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, within 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, who will chair the panel. 2. A Senior member of the College staff, who has had no prior involvement in your case. 3. The Assistant Principal, Student Achievement or a designated deputy. 4. A Secretary. The procedure followed at the Appeal Hearing will be similar to the procedure that was followed at the Disciplinary Hearing. You have the right to be supported by a family member, friend, employer but not by a solicitor or barrister. The Appeals Panel may decide to uphold the decision of the Disciplinary Panel, or that your penalty should be reduced or 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.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES continued Serious Misconduct Procedures - Summary SERIOUS MISCONDUCT PROCEDURES Ann aallegation A llegation ooff S Serious e r io u s M Misconduct isconduct iiss m made ade against you you against

Stage 1

Stage 2

A Divisional D iv is io n a l M Manager anager oorr oother ther ddesignated e s ig n a te d m member em ber ooff sstaff taff will will ssuspend uspend yyou ou w h ils t whilst tthe he aallegation llegation iiss iinvestigated. n v e s tig a te d . This will will bbee cconfirmed onfirmed iinn w riting ttoo yyou ou aand nd yyour our This writing parent(s) or or guardians(s) guardians(s) oorr eemployer(s), m p lo y e r ( s ) , w h e re parent(s) where aapplicable. p p lic a b le .

Within 5 working working ddays ays ooff tthe he sstart tart of of your your Within suspension, aann aappropriate ppropriate ccourse ourse ooff aaction c tio n w ill suspension, will bbee ddecided ecided bbyy tthe he D iv is io n a l M anager oorr oother th e r Divisional Manager ddesignated e s ig n a te d m ember ooff sstaff taff and and the the Student S tu d e n t member S e r v ic e s M a n a g e r. Services Manager. Within 10 10 working working ddays ays yyou ou w ill bbe… e… Within will

Reinstated, R einstated, aass there there iiss nnoo ccase ase ttoo aanswer nsw er

Referred R eferred ttoo tthe he D is c ip lin a r y P rocedure ffor or Disciplinary Procedure M is c o n d u c t Misconduct

You Y ou m may ay bring bring a ffamily a m ily m member, ember, ffriend, riend, eemployer mployer oorr oother ther pperson erson ttoo ssupport upport yyou ou oorr ttoo sspeak peak oonn yyour our bbehalf, ehalf, bbut ut nnot ot a ssolicitor olicitor oorr bbarrister. a r r is te r .

Given G iven a ddate ate ttoo aattend tte n d a D is c ip lin a r y P a n e l.T h is w ill Disciplinary Panel.This will be confirmed confirmed iinn w riting. be writing. Your parent(s) parent(s) or or Your guardians(s) oorr guardians(s) e m p lo y e r ( s ) w ill bbee employer(s) will informed, where w h e re informed, a p p lic a b le . applicable.

Disciplinary D is c ip lin a r y P Panel anel m meets eets with with you you and and yyour our rrepresentative, epresentative, oorr iiff yyou ou do not not attend attend the the Panel Panel cconsiders onsiders tthe he ccase ase iinn yyour our aabsence. bsence. do The Panel Panel arrives arrives at at decision decision aafter fter cconsidering onsidering tthe he eevidence. v id e n c e . The

Reinstated, R einstated, aass there there iiss nnoo ccase ase to to aanswer nsw er

Reinstated uunder Reinstated nder tthe he cconditions onditions ooff tthe he w ritten oorr ffinal in a l w r itte n w a r n in g T h is w ill written written warning This will bbee rrecorded ecorded aand nd kkept ept iinn yyour our ffile ile T This h is w will ill bbee cconfirmed onfirmed iinn w writing riting ttoo yyou ou aand nd yyour our pparent(s) arent(s) oorr guardians(s) guardians(s) oorr eemployer(s) m p lo y e r ( s ) where applicable. a p p lic a b le . A ny bbreach reach ooff tthese hese where Any c o n d itio n s w ill rresult esult iinn a rreferral eferral back back to to conditions will the Disciplinary D is c ip lin a r y P anel the Panel or automatic automatic exclusion. e x c lu s io n . or

You Y ou m may ay tthen hen be… be…

Excluded E xcluded ppermanently ermanently oorr ffor or a llength ength ooff ttime im e ddecided ecided bbyy tthe he D is c ip lin a r y P anel. T h is w ill bbee Disciplinary Panel. This will confirmed in in w riting ttoo yyou ou aand nd yyour our pparent(s) arent(s) oorr confirmed writing guardians(s) oorr eemployer(s) m p lo y e r ( s ) w here aapplicable. p p lic a b le . guardians(s) where You ccan You an aappeal ppeal w within ithin 1100 w working o r k in g ddays. ays. T he A p p e a ls P anel m ay The Appeals Panel may uuphold phold tthe he ddecision, ecision, rreduce educe the th e ppenalty enalty or or ffind ind tthat hat nnoo ppenalty e n a lty sshould hould bbee ggiven. iv e n .

Stage 3

Diary

Information

STUDENT COLLEGE CALENDAR

2010 - 2011

AUTUMN TERM

Monday 06/09/10 – Wednesday 22/12/10

Half Term

Friday 22/10/10 to Friday 29/10/10

Student Break

Thursday 23/12/10 to Wednesday 05/01/11

SPRING TERM

Thursday 06/01/11 – Friday 8/04/11

Half Term

Monday 21/02/11 to Friday 25/02/11

Student Break

Monday 11/04/11 to Monday 25/04/11

SUMMER TERM

Tuesday 26/04/11 – Thursday 8/07/11

Half Term

Monday 30/05/11 to Friday 03/06/11

Early May Bank Holiday

Monday 02/05/11

Spring Bank Holiday

Monday 30/05/11

Summer Bank Holiday

Monday 30/08/10

September 2010 Date 1 WED 2 THURS 3 FRI 4 SAT 5 SUN 6 MON 7 TUES 8 WED 9 THURS 10 FRI 11 SAT 12 SUN 13 MON 14 TUES 15 WED 16 THURS 17 FRI 18 SAT 19 SUN 20 MON 21 TUES 22 WED 23 THURS 24 FRI 25 SAT 26 SUN 27 MON 28 TUES 29 WED 30 THURS

Work

Reminder

Term Starts

October 2010 Reminder

Work

Autumn Half Term

Autumn Autumn Autumn Autumn Autumn

Half Half Half Half Half

Term Term Term Term Term

Date 1 FRI 2 SAT 3 SUN 4 MON 5 TUES 6 WED 7 THURS 8 FRI 9 SAT 10 SUN 11 MON 12 TUES 13 WED 14 THURS 15 FRI 16 SAT 17 SUN 18 MON 19 TUES 20 WED 21 THURS 22 FRI 23 SAT 24 SUN 25 MON 26 TUES 27 WED 28 THURS 29 FRI 30 SAT 31 SUN

November 2010 Date 1 MON 2 TUES 3 WED 4 THURS 5 FRI 6 SAT 7 SUN 8 MON 9 TUES 10 WED 11 THURS 12 FRI 13 SAT 14 SUN 15 MON 16 TUES 17 WED 18 THURS 19 FRI 20 SAT 21 SUN 22 MON 23 TUES 24 WED 25 THURS 26 FRI 27 SAT 28 SUN 29 MON 30 TUES

Work

Reminder

December 2010 Reminder

Work

Christmas Holidays Christmas Holidays

Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas

Holidays Holidays Holidays Holidays

Date 1 WED 2 THURS 3 FRI 4 SAT 5 SUN 6 MON 7 TUES 8 WED 9 THURS 10 FRI 11 SAT 12 SUN 13 MON 14 TUES 15 WED 16 THURS 17 FRI 18 SAT 19 SUN 20 MON 21 TUES 22 WED 23 THURS 24 FRI 25 SAT 26 SUN 27 MON 28 TUES 29 WED 30 THURS 31 FRI

January 2011 Date 1 SAT 2 SUN 3 MON 4 TUES 5 WED 6 THURS 7 FRI 8 SAT 9 SUN 10 MON 11 TUES 12 WED 13 THURS 14 FRI 15 SAT 16 SUN 17 MON 18 TUES 19 WED 20 THURS 21 FRI 22 SAT 23 SUN 24 MON 25 TUES 26 WED 27 THURS 28 FRI 29 SAT 30 SUN 31 MON

Work

Reminder

Christmas holidays Christmas holidays Christmas holidays Spring Term Starts

February 2011 Reminder

Work

Spring Spring Spring Spring Spring

Half Half Half Half Half

Term Term Term Term Term

Holiday Holiday Holiday Holiday Holiday

Date 1 TUES 2 WED 3 THURS 4 FRI 5 SAT 6 SUN 7 MON 8 TUES 9 WED 10 THURS 11 FRI 12 SAT 13 SUN 14 MON 15 TUES 16 WED 17 THURS 18 FRI 19 SAT 20 SUN 21 MON 22 TUES 23 WED 24 THURS 25 FRI 26 SAT 27 SUN 28 MON

March 2011 Date 1 TUES 2 WED 3 THURS 4 FRI 5 SAT 6 SUN 7 MON 8 TUES 9 WED 10 THURS 11 FRI 12 SAT 13 SUN 14 MON 15 TUES 16 WED 17 THURS 18 FRI 19 SAT 20 SUN 21 MON 22 TUES 23 WED 24 THURS 25 FRI 26 SAT 27 SUN 28 MON 29 TUES 30 WED 31 THURS

Work

Reminder

April 2011 Reminder

Work

Easter Easter Easter Easter Easter

Holidays Holidays Holidays Holidays Holidays

Easter Easter Easter Easter Easter

Holidays Holidays Holidays Holidays Holidays/Bank Holiday

Easter Holidays/Bank Holiday

May 2011 Date 1 SUN 2 MON 3 TUES 4 WED 5 THURS 6 FRI 7 SAT 8 SUN 9 MON 10 TUES 11 WED 12 THURS 13 FRI 14 SAT 15 SUN 16 MON 17 TUES 18 WED 19 THURS 20 FRI 21 SAT 22 SUN 23 MON 24 TUES 25 WED 26 THURS 27 FRI 28 SAT 29 SUN 30 MON 31 TUES

Work

Reminder

May Day Bank Holiday

Bank Holiday Summer Half Term

June 2011 Reminder

Work Summer Half Term Summer Half Term Summer Half Term

July 2011 Date 1 FRI 2 SAT 3 SUN 4 MON 5 TUES 6 WED 7 THURS 8 FRI 9 SAT 10 SUN 11 MON 12 TUES 13 WED 14 THURS 15 FRI 16 SAT 17 SUN 18 MON 19 TUES 20 WED 21 THURS 22 FRI 23 SAT 24 SUN 25 MON 26 TUES 27 WED 28 THURS 29 FRI 30 SAT 31 SUN

Work Term Ends

Reminder

August 2011 Reminder

Work

Date 1 MON 2 TUES 3 WED 4 THURS 5 FRI 6 SAT 7 SUN 8 MON 9 TUES 10 WED 11 THURS 12 FRI 13 SAT 14 SUN 15 MON 16 TUES 17 WED 18 THURS 19 FRI 20 SAT 21 SUN 22 MON 23 TUES 24 WED 25 THURS 26 FRI 27 SAT 28 SUN 29 MON 30 TUE 31 WED

Bank Holiday

NOTES

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