NEWS INFORMATION GUIDANCE EVENTS
SDC ALUMNI KATIE JONES IS AWARDED SELFRIDGES 2016 BRIGHT NEW THINGS BURSARY TURN TO PAGE 20 FOR FULL STORY
THE SDC ALUMNI ISSUE
APRIL 2016
SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE TASTER DAYS LEWES
Thursday 30th June Friday 1st July Wednesday 6th July
EASTBOURNE Tuesday 28th June Monday 4th July Tuesday 5th July
COLLEGE TOURS Tours of Sussex Downs College can be booked by calling Student Services on 030 300 39900 (Eastbourne) or 030 300 38765 (Lewes). Please visit the Open/Taster Days section of our website to view tour dates and times.
www.sussexdowns.ac.uk 2
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
APRIL 2016
Welcome to
PARENT CONNECT Click on the video below to watch an interview with Mike Hopkins, Principal & Chief Executive of Sussex Downs College.
In this issue... DIARY DATES
5 COLLEGE NEWS News Highlights
COLLEGE EVENTS Events & Opportunities Academy of Music Events
6 18
GUIDANCE & ADVICE MyFuture Advice for Students Apprenticeships Exams Information
GET IN TOUCH
8 10 12 14
Performing Arts News And in Other News...
T. 030 300 39551
20 22 24
@SussexDowns sussexdowns
GENERAL INFORMATION Join the Students’ Union Sport Life at SDC Exams Office, Study Programme Agreements & Financial Support Attendance Information Absences and Closures
17 18 27 28 29
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
www.sussexdowns.ac.uk
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APRIL 2016
SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE - OPEN FOR BUSINESS Our popular Kings Bistro & Restaurant is open for lunch and evening dinner, featuring a range of speciality events with the finest quality food and wine in intimate surroundings at the Eastbourne campus. Award winning students prepare, cook and serve guests in the restaurant as part of their training under professional supervision.
Hair, beauty
It is open to the public, staff and students throughout term time. Booking is recommended.
& complementary
therapies
Coffee Shop Opening
Kings Restaurant Opening
Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9:00am – 11:30am
Wednesday & Friday Lunch is served at 12 noon
Kings Bistro Opening
Three course lunch with coffee – £10.00 per person
Open for lunch Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 11:45am (last orders 12:45pm) 2 Course Lunch – £5.00 per person
Please call 01323 637323 for more information or to book your appointment
Booking required
www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/eastbourne-graduations-hair-and-beauty-salon www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/lewes-graduations-hair-and-beauty-salon
Themed Events
In our Floristry Studio we are pleased to be able to offer beautiful floral arrangements, wedding flowers, or just a thank you bouquet, all available to order.
Booking required Please see website for more information
No booking required. Tables of six or more can be reserved in advance.
Choose from a wide range of services and treatments including:
Haircuts - £5.00 Colouring from - £20.00 Facials - £15.00 Manicures - £6.00 Body massage - £13.00 Reflexology - £10.00 and much more.
Thursday evenings, £22.50 per person
3 Course Lunch – £6.50 per person
Our vibrant hairdressing and tranquil treatment rooms offer a variety of professional treatments at value for money prices.
www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/kings-bistro-resturant
floristry
For prices and more information please call 01323 637355.
photo prints business stationery document printing laminating finishing poster printing flyers banner graphics ncr binding reprographics
www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/about/open-for-business/reprographics Follow us on Twitter @SDCPrintDept Find us on facebook at facebook.com/sdcprintdesigndept
The Reprographics team at Sussex Downs College in Eastbourne and Lewes can now offer you high quality print and design at a highly competitive price. Recent upgrades to our print equipment means we are able to offer a wide range of print and finishing services, including: • • • • •
Colour and black and white copying Business stationery, NCR forms, flyers & leaflets Large format printing Binding & laminating Wedding invitations, order of service etc.
A4
Cost per sheet up to 999 copies (please contact us for a quote on higher quantities)
A3
Single
Double
Single
Double
5p
8p
8p
10p
All prices are per copy on 75gsm FSC approved paper.
Colour Copying
A4
Cost per sheet up to 99 copies (please contact us for a quote on higher quantities)
A3
Single
Double
Single
Double
14p
20p
18p
25p
All prices are per copy on 100gsm FSC approved paper.
We are able to use your own artwork or create some for you to suit your requirements (charges may apply).
Large Format Printing on 235gsm Satin
A4 - £2 A3 - £3 A2 - £4 A1 - £8 A0 - £15
Photo Prints 6” x 4” on 170gsm Gloss
8p per print minimum 20 prints per order
Please feel free to give us a call or email us for further information
Business Cards on 300gsm Silk (per card)
Single Sided - 4p
NCR
2pt-£30.80 3pt-£39.46 4pt-£63.97 2pt-£51.59 3pt-£79.58 4pt-£107.94 2pt-£91.23 3pt-£136.32 4pt-£187.94
Eastbourne 030 300 38409 repro.eastbourne@sussexdowns.ac.uk Lewes 030 300 38550 repro.lewes@sussexdowns.ac.uk
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Black and White Copying
250 sets 500 sets 1000 sets
Laminating Comb Binding
A4-30p
Double Sided - 5p
A3-70p
A2-1.50
65p including clear acetate & card cover
Thermal Binding Wire Binding Colour Custom Bunting (waterproof) All prices exclude VAT
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
50p including clear acetate cover 50p From 25p per letter 210mm high
APRIL 2016
DIARY DATES May - July
MAY
BANK HOLIDAY
Monday 2nd May
MENTAL HEALTH WELL-BEING MONTH Throughout May Promoted by the Students’ Union
COLLEGE INTERVIEWS
Wednesday 18th May 13:00 - 17:00
1ST EXAM ON GCSE/GCE TIMETABLE
Monday 16th May
BANK HOLIDAY
Monday 30th May
HALF TERM
30th May - 3rd June
JUN
ALL TEACHING ENDS Friday 24th June
INTRODUCTORY DAYS, LEWES
27th - 28th June
YEAR 10 TASTER DAYS, EASTBOURNE 28th June - 5th July
INTRODUCTORY DAYS, EASTBOURNE
30th June - 1st July
YEAR 10 TASTER DAYS, LEWES 30th June - 6th July
JUL
END OF TERM CELEBRATIONS, EASTBOURNE
Wednesday 6th July, 15:30 - 17:00
END OF TERM CELEBRATIONS, LEWES Friday 8th July, 15:30 - 17:00
SUMMER HOLIDAYS
11th July - 28th August
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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COLLEGE EVENTS
EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES END OF YEAR SHOWS 2015-16 Visual Arts End of year show ‘Align’- 23 June 2016 This is the big year end show for the whole department. You will see an exciting series of shows mounted by each of the courses in the department as a platform for the graduating second year students. Through Fine Art, Graphic Design and Fashion-textiles, and together with the Double Award students there will be rooms of sculpture, painting, printmaking, textiles, fashion displays, walk through installation and photography. Library shows May 2nd - 29th Open daily 10–5pm Week 1 - Commencing 2nd May
EVENTS IN MAY
STEM Tuesday - Thursday JULY 5TH - 7TH
University of Brighton FAMILY DAY May 14TH 10am - 3pm An excellent opportunity to meet with Brighton University staff and students to ask questions, visit a university campus and attend talks on subjects such as University Life, Student Finance and Applying through UCAS. Media TV taster at Brighton University Wednesday May 18TH 10am - 3pm School of Education Conference Wednesday May 4TH 10am - 3pm
HEALTHCARE Tuesday - Thursday JULY 19TH - 21ST FASHION Monday - Thursday AUGUST 8TH - 11TH
Large format landscape paintings and computer displays of student work Week 2 - Commencing 9th May Double Award in Art and Design Large college hanging images and free standing sculptures of figures Week 3 - Commencing 16th May
Sussex University
Digital Design
Sunday 11 August - Thursday 18TH August
Digital displays of moving graphic projects and large printed selections from a graphic novel on The Odyssey.
TH
Choose from these subject areas:
Week 4 - Commencing 23rd May
For further information on upcoming events or on how to join the Brighton and Sussex University Schemes Email - Susie Christie, Careers and Widening Participation Coordinator at: susie.christie@sussexdowns.ac.uk
LAW MUSIC PSYCHOLOGY PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
JULY AND AUGUST SUMMER SCHOOLS
Chose from these subject areas:
The Big Steam Print
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS CHEMISTRY POLITICS BIOLOGY
No longer hidden behind the closed doors of workshops and studios. The Big Steam Print brings the magic of printing into the open air for all to see. This year our first year Graphics students have teamed up with The Ditchling Museum of Art and Craft and during the Brighton Festival will gather to print their work on a giant scale using
Brighton University SPORTS Tuesday - Friday AUGUST 23RD - 27TH HUMANITIES Tuesday to Thursday JULY 26TH - 28TH
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SASS Tuesday - Thursday JULY 12TH - 14TH
Fine Art
Sunday 21ST August - Thursday 25TH August
Summer Schools - Applications should be in ASAP. Don’t Miss out!
Textiles/ Graphic Design /Digital Media Design Hanging paper dress pattern displays and posters as well as image slideshows on computer Graphic Design A level
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
COLLEGE EVENTS
a vintage steam roller. We hope to join the excitement as a heady haze of steam and printing ink should result in some of the biggest works ever printed.
CREATIVE SHOWCASE 2016 - CREATIVE AND DIGITAL DIPLOMA SHOWS
2016, Open Weds - Sun 11am 5pm Venue: Phoenix Gallery in Brighton
This is an opportunity to come, view and celebrate the achievements of this year’s creative and digital students. The exhibition features work from all courses and levels within the faculty and includes film, animation, ceramics, fashion, textiles, graphics, Illustration, fine art, architecture, furniture design and Jewellery to name just a few! The work on display will make you think, question, challenge, laugh, admire and Inspire.
HE end of year show
Private view: Friday 10th June
FD and BA (hons) Top Up
Shows open: Saturday 11th June, 10am - 1pm Monday - Thursday 10am – 5pm
Time and date: Sun 22 May, 12pm - 6pm Venue: The Level, Brighton Tickets: FREE An exhibition of the prints will be on display thereafter. Time and Date: 6 - 21 August
Onca Gallery 14 Saint George’s Place Brighton, BN1 4GB England 9th to 11th of June Pixel by Pixel The end of year Degree Show featuring a selection of the best work from the second and third year Digital Media Design Degree Students from Sussex Downs College in Lewes.
PERFORMING ARTS SHOWS Musical Theatre Show BTEC – Razzle Dazzle Wednesday 4th May 7pm Tickets £3 adults, £2 concs. Free to Performing Arts students AS Drama and Theatre Studies Exam Shows Wednesday 18th May Thursday 19th May 6pm Tickets £3 adults, £2 concs. Free to Performing Arts students Grad Show – All Students Wednesday 25th May 6pm (open to students only) Free entry
We are very proud to present a fashion catwalk show designed and made by fashion design students on both the Btec Extended Diploma and UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design Eastbourne. This will be the premier viewing of collections designed and created over the year by these highly talented and creative students, and is not to be missed by anyone who has a keen interest in fashion design and young student talent. The Fashion Show is a celebration of the achievements of the students studying on these courses, and an opportunity to see the level of creativity, quality, technical skill and professionalism that we have come to expect from our students. Many of these students will be progressing to university courses and in time become the next generation of professionals within the industry. This is a key date and event in the end of year Creative Showcase calendar.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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GUIDANCE & ADVICE
MYFUTURE AT SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE My
Future
MYFUTURE EVENTS
MyFuture is a service at Sussex Downs College that demonstrates our commitment to supporting students and parents/carers with all aspects of progression. This includes going into university, finding voluntary work, apprenticeships, mock interviews, 1:1 careers advice, developing personal employability skills such as team work, and finding a job. If you, or your child would like to find out more please contact the team at: myfuture@sussexdowns.ac.uk
Setting up your own business (April):
During the last few months Sussex Downs College has delivered many different and exciting talks and events for students and parents / carers: Chelsea’s Choice (March): “Chelsea’s Choice” is a 40-minute Applied Theatre Production that has proven highly successful in raising awareness amongst young people of the issues surrounding Child Sexual Exploitation. The play is followed by a 20 - 30 minute plenary session exploring the issues raised in the play. The production was delivered to students at our Eastbourne campus and we are looking at opportunities to deliver this at Lewes too. “Staff are talking about how wonderful, engaging and thought provoking the “Chelsea’s Choice” performance was last week. They claim they have never seen the students so enthralled. Staff continued the themes into their lessons after the performance”. (Jane Hollobone, Learning Mentor)
APPRENTICESHIP INFORMATION EVENINGS (MARCH)
Humphrey & Co Chartered Accountants and Barclays Bank visited us again to talk to students about how to set up a business and provide tax and finance advice and information. Students who attended were a credit to the college: “I wanted to thank you for inviting Humphrey & Co to speak at your presentation event today. The talk went very well, and the attendees were attentive, made notes and asked questions...” (Marty Waite, Humphrey & Co, Chartered Accountants)
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT? Is there anything that you or your child would like to know more about to support them with their progression into work, University, Gap years, voluntary work, Apprenticeships etc? We would love to hear from you. Simply e-mail: myfuture@sussexdowns.ac.uk with any questions you or your child may have or any events and information sessions you would like us to organise for students, parents and carers to help make those all important decisions.
OTHER TALKS AND WORKSHOPS RECENTLY DELIVERED WIDENING PARTICIPATION • Interview skills AT SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE • Student finance • Thinking about University? • Student Ambassadors – their role and how to get involved • CV writing: Students can send their CV to checkmycv@sussexdowns.ac.uk for it to be reviewed and for any general advice and information
Are you part of Brighton Universities Compact Plus programme? www.brighton.ac.uk/studying-here/ applying-to-brighton or the Sussex University First Generation Scheme? www.sussex.ac.uk/studentlifecentre/ funding/bursaries/firstgenerationschol
Over 150 parents, carers and students attended our Apprenticeship information events at Lewes and Eastbourne. This was a great turnout and we hope that if you attended, you found the information interesting. Our Apprenticeship team provided an overview of what apprenticeships are and how to find them and the audience then heard directly from a local employer and / or a young person currently undertaking an apprenticeship about their apprenticeship experiences.
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Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
12x3
Do you want to study medicine at university? Are you interested in being a doctor? Daunted by the application process? Do you hope to apply this year? BrightMed 12x3 is a condensed version of BrightMed, Brighton and Sussex Medical School’s widening participation programme. This three day event provides advice and guidance focusing on medicine and life as a medical student. Activities, run by BSMS staff and students will include taster lectures on anatomy and the human body, clinical skills, ethics, and more. Additional sessions will focus on the UCAS process and what is needed to submit a strong application for medicine. Where & When:
Places
BrightMed 12x3 will take place on 15th – 17th July 2016, 10:00 – 16:00 at Brighton & Sussex Medical School. Activities will include:
The human body How does it function an introduction to anatomy Hand washing & infection control Taking a patient history: Learn how important this skill really is and improve your own communication skills in the process UCAS: What makes a good UCAS personal statement? Critiquing real personal statements Living anatomy: a taste of UG teaching. Learn some basic, functional anatomy. Medical ethics: Discussion on how to approach ethics in medicine Designing a drug - undergraduate physiology and therapeutics. Neurology: An introduction to the brain Which med school? How do medical schools differ, which would suit you best Group personal statement Q&A with current medical students
How to apply: Students must fulfil the following:
Be studying A Level biology and chemistry (or equivalent qualification) Have GCSE English and maths at Grade B or better
Priority will be given to students who also fulfil at least one of the following funding criteria:
Currently in, or have been in, the care of a local authority Care for someone at home with a long-term illness or disability Have a disability Have refugee or asylum seeker status in the UK Parents or guardians did not go to university Parents or guardians having a low-income occupation Live in an area where fewer than the average numbers of people go to university Pre-16 school underperforms against the national GCSE average Eligible for free school meals or you receive a 16-19 college bursary
Further details and an Application form can be found online by going to: www.bsms.ac.uk/brightmed12x3
GUIDANCE & ADVICE
Advice for... HAPPY, HEALTHY, SUCCESSFUL STUDENTS KEEPING YOUR CHILDREN SAFE FROM RADICALISATION AND EXTREMISM You will be aware from recent items in the news that there is a new risk that threatens the safety of our children and young people. This is the risk of radicalisation by an extremist group. Extremist groups, which include right wing racist groups and ISIS inspired groups are actively trying to recruit young people on line, in the community and in some cases, this has happened in schools and colleges. This is a scary message, but it has a positive side. We have the opportunity to do something about it. At Sussex Downs College, we have trained our staff to be aware of the signs of possible radicalisation and how to protect young people from being drawn into extremism and we wanted to share these with parents and carers.
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Extremists seek to exploit any vulnerability young people may have. They look out for people that are; • Searching for answers to questions about identify and belonging • Driven by a need to raise their self esteem • Drawn to a group or individual who can offer identity, a social network and support • Angry about world events and feeling that they need to make a difference. If a young person is being groomed by extremists, they might display certain types of behaviour such as; • Out of character changes in dress, behaviour and peer relationships • Secretive behaviour • Losing interest in old friends and old activities • Glorifying violence • Possessing extremist literature • Advocating racist of hate filled messages.
There are things you can do to help your child to keep safe; • Know who your child’s friends are • Be aware of your child’s on-line activity and update your own knowledge on social media • Keep talking with your child about what they watch on the TV/Internet and on the news • Encourage debate and questioning on local and world events and help your child to see different points of view • Explain that anyone who tells them to keep secrets from their family, friends or staff at college is likely to be trying to do them some harm or put them in danger. If you are concerned about your child and the risk of radicalisation and need some more advice, please contact the college’s safeguarding team at: stay.safe@sussexdowns.ac.uk or speak to the Safeguarding Co-ordinator on 030 300 38245.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
GUIDANCE & ADVICE
SAFEGUARDING - WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THE E-SAFETY OF YOUR CHILDREN? With all of the potential that the online world and new technology offers, young people now have access to huge opportunities. They use technology to express themselves, explore, and be creative; it has changed the way they communicate. You might wonder whether what they are doing is safe, and how you can help them if you find they are having difficulties online. The CEOP Safety Centre contains valuable information on how to help your child stay safe, worries that you might have and how to deal with any concerns. www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre/ Parents/
SAFE DRIVE STAY ALIVE FOR 1ST YEAR STUDENTS Safe Drive Stay Alive (SDSA) is produced by a road safety partnership including Thames Valley and Hampshire Police, local councils and emergency services. Each partner has been working for years to reduce the number of people dying and injured on the roads. The Safe Drive Stay Alive campaign is for new and pre-drivers and reaches them in an emotive and hard-hitting way, influencing behaviour and attitude on the roads. See the following link for more information: www.safedrive.org.uk
EDUCATE AGAINST HATE We all want our children to live in a safe and loving environment so that they can grow up to become happy, confident adults. You will already know that your children can be vulnerable to risks both inside and outside the home, and will have taken steps to protect them so they can grow, learn and develop to their fullest potential. Protecting your children from radicalisation and extremism is similar to protecting them from the other harms you may be more familiar with, such as drugs, gangs and sexual exploitation. Visit www.educateagainsthate.com parents for further information.
Sessions are scheduled around tutorial times and are com-pulsory for first year students in the same way that their tutorial is. Students are advised to check details with their tutor in advance of the session. For more information please e-mail myfuture@sussexdowns.ac.uk Sessions
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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GUIDANCE & ADVICE
SU SS
A
N DOW S CO L GE LE
Apprenticeships AT SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE
EX
LU M NI
The service helps to match employers with employees, and that’s what has happened in my case.’
STUDENTS TURNED APPRENTICES AT SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE SDC Alumni Talk About Their Experiences as Apprentices since Leaving the College As students come to the end of their time at College, it can be hard to decide what route to take next. Some go to University, whilst others go into full time work. However, Apprenticeships are another option that an increasing number of our students take, and gain support with.
The next step on the Talent Bank is supporting the student when they gain an interview. Whilst some students will have experience with interviews, some have never worked before. Roland Beshong was one student that went on to use the next part of the service. Roland is currently a Business Administration Apprentice within the SDC Business Development Team in Lewes. He was supported by Stefan Couch, the Employer and Recruitment Advisor at the time. Stefan then began to train Roland in interview skills and employability skills. Despite initially describing himself ‘as far from work ready’, the training was fundamental in helping Roland to secure an Apprenticeship. Apprenticeship Support at the College
Why do an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships can at first appear like a bit of a minefield, so Sadie decided to access some support: ‘The college were really helpful, after telling my personal tutor about my decision, he guided me to the apprenticeship department, where they kept me informed of any new apprenticeships on offer. The apprenticeship team supported me throughout the process of applying for each job role.’
Whilst it is important to gain support from the college to secure an Apprenticeship, it also crucial that the Apprentice feels that their placement has been worthwhile. Roland would recommend an Apprenticeship not only because he will gain a lucrative, credible qualification, but also because of the ‘valuable work experience and life lessons that you would not necessarily gain at university.’ Furthermore, Roland has broadened his skills range by attending staff training sessions including ‘Minute Taking, Handling Difficult People and Behavioural Management’, as well as completing Functional Skills in ICT. He can then transfer these abilities to help him with his future career plans.
Students are initially assisted through using the Talent Bank. The Talent Bank keeps students on record according to their hometown and which industry sector they are interested in. Shawn Buckingham, another SDC alumni, is now an ICT Apprentice at Tomorrow’s People. According to Shawn, the service ‘works by the student letting the college know about your preferred area of expertise, like you would when looking for a job on the internet, and the college contacts you if they think that the student might be interested in this role.
“OPPORTUNITIES HAVE EXPANDED TO ENCOMPASS VIRTUALLY ALL INDUSTRY SECTORS.”
Traditionally, Apprenticeships have existed in industries such as Construction, Hairdressing and Hospitality. However, while these Apprenticeships still exist, opportunities have expanded to encompass virtually all industry sectors such as ICT and Legal. This is exactly the route that current Sussex Downs College, Business Administration alumni Sadie Nicholas decided upon. Sadie previously studied at the Eastbourne Campus before opting to become an Apprentice.
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Image: Supporting National Apprenticeship Week. (Left to Right) Penny Shearer, Employer Engagement Account Manager; Sadie Nicholas & Roland Beshong, Business Administration Apprentices.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
GENERAL INFORMATION
accommodation for international students
Future Career Prospects for Apprentices There are several options available to Apprentices once they have completed their Apprenticeship. One option is to progress to a higher level Apprenticeship, stay in full time employment with the company or take the skills that they have learnt to another job. Like many young people his age studying A Levels, Roland Beshong’s future ambition is to attend university. Quite often students believe it is University versus Apprenticeships, but Roland is determined to accomplish both and thus obtain a wider experience. After gaining an undergraduate degree, Roland says he then aspires to pursue a career as a Paralegal. “The skills that I’ve learnt will help me as there are a lot of administration skills required to become a successful Paralegal.’ How the College can help you? If your son or daughter is interested in becoming an Apprentice, the best option is to take a look at the Apprenticeships that the College run: www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/courses/ apprenticeships/apprenticeshipsindex/. If we offer their Apprenticeship of interest then they can be added to our Talent Bank. For further details please email Katie.parris@sussexdowns.ac.uk . Upcoming Events Beginning from the week commencing Monday 2nd May 2016, the College’s Employer and Recruitment Advisor will be holding weekly drop in sessions, at both the Lewes and Eastbourne campuses. Tuesdays: Eastbourne Campus, Hammond House, Room 103 Thursdays: Lewes Campus, Employability Hub Any parents wishing to attend should please contact: Katie.parris@sussexdowns.ac.uk
Do you have a spare room or know of anybody that would be interested in hosting students? The International Department in Eastbourne require host families for our International Students from mid-June to mid-August for various groups for 2 to 8 week placements. Hosts should be ideally located in Hampden Park, Willingdon, town centre, Rodmill, Old Town or Seaside Road. Students are under 18 years of age and placed in pairs. Please contact us on 030 300 39935 or via email on accommodation-eastbourne@sussexdowns.ac.uk for further information.
Free wellbeing Short Courses for Parents SDC are offering a range of free wellbeing courses for adults aged 19 and over in Newhaven and Eastbourne. Topics include Confidence Building, Happiness & Mindful Creativity and Relaxation. Courses are taught in a friendly, informal manner with no requirement to do anything you don’t want to do! Click here to be linked to the latest course newsletter. If you would like further information or to be added to the mailing list to hear about future courses please contact Zoe Nickolls on: 030 300 39055 or zoe.nickolls@sussexdowns.ac.uk
Free YOGA
Lewes campus
We are happy to announce that all Lewes yoga classes will be free to students from now until the last class on June 27th. Monday 5-6pm in LS023 Wednesday 4.15-5.15pm in LSO23 We have two excellent yoga teachers, all equipment is provided, so students just need to drop in and join in.
All students are welcome to drop in.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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GENERAL INFORMATION
EXAMS INFORMATION 4. They should be focusing on acquiring knowledge but more importantly they should be practising using that knowledge to answer exam style questions which will enable them to develop the essential skills needed to get a high grade, for example analysis and evaluation.
GETTING EXAM READY FOR A LEVELS We are now entering a critical part of the academic year. This is the time of year when revision planning will have a significant impact on the grades your son/daughter needs to progress to the next stage. We are working closely with students to help them maximise their performance, but as you know success in the exams will also rely heavily on students working independently with direction from the teachers and support from you as parents. We know what works in terms of revision and we thought it would be helpful to highlight some of the key activities you should see your son/daughter engaging in over the next few months. 1.
Your son/daughter should have produced a revision plan which will detail what they are doing each day for each of their subjects, and they should be referring to this plan every day and amending it depending on their progress.
2. The amount of time spent revising should have increased significantly from the minimum of 4 hours per subject per week. They should now be completing at least 6 x 20 minute revision sessions per day. 3. They should have access to a quiet place to study at home and be using it on a regular basis. If they don’t have this then they should be making use of the quiet study spaces on offer at college e.g. the LRC and the exam practice room.
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5. They should be frequently checking to see if they are making progress. This will involve using exam board mark schemes and model answers to assess their work, and also meeting regularly with their teacher to get feedback. To help your son/daughter with their exam readiness we have a number of strategies in place including: • • • •
•
Mini mock exams in class Bookable 1-2-1 support sessions with teachers Extra revision classes Exam practice rooms where students can sit a practice exam in silence and under timed conditions A newly appointed Raising Standards Leader who is working with individuals and small groups of students to provide extra support with planning, implementing and reviewing revision
Please note that the exam season starts very soon as follows:
GENERAL EXAMS INFORMATION THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION RELATES TO YOUR SON/DAUGHTER’S SUMMER EXAMS AT SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE AND SHOULD BE SHARED WITH YOUR STUDENT •
•
•
•
•
AS exams from 16th May A2 exams from 6th June A level linear exams from 20th June If you have any questions about how you can best support your son/daughter with their revision please contact Sam Alvarez by emailing: Sam.Alvarez@sussexdowns.ac.uk
•
Students have been informed of arrangements for exam clashes by personal letter Please note that in order to make efficiencies, Statements of Entry and Results for GCSE/GCE exams will no longer be posted home but sent to students’ College email accounts. Statements of Entry for the summer series was be sent to students’ College email accounts on 4th April 2016 Students are personally responsible for providing their own equipment for their exams and the Exams Office will not be able to supply equipment (calculators etc.). We provide a minimal amount of ‘spare’ equipment in each venue but this will only be available to students who have a problem with their own equipment (e.g. breakages during the exam) Examination sessions begin at 9.30am and 2.00pm unless advised otherwise (e.g. If a student has a clash situation) The Exams Office will charge a standard non-attendance fee (to post-16 students) of £10 for any timetabled exam or assessment missed without supporting evidence Students will be asked to present their Student ID card in all examinations in order to prove identity
EASTBOURNE STUDENTS: Written papers will take place at the Kings Centre, Hampden Park. Oral, Practical & Listening exams will take place on the main SDC campus. Students with access arrangements (e.g. Reader, Scribe, Use of Computer) will also sit on the main campus. Room details will be displayed on the notice board outside EC107.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
GENERAL INFORMATION
The timetable is displayed on the Exams notice board outside EC107 from 4th April. Personal timetables will also be available to view in MyDay once rooms have been allocated. Students will only be able to view 7 days in advance. LEWES STUDENTS: Rooming details will be displayed on the whiteboard in the Cliffe reception area and outside the LRC in the Southover building on a weekly basis starting Friday 13th May. Split room details will also be displayed on the Exams Office noticeboard opposite Student Services. The timetable is displayed on the Exams notice board outside Student Services from 4th April. Personal timetables will also be available to view in MyDay once rooms have been allocated. Students will only be able to view 7 days in advance. Day of Exam
Are you Exam Ready? 1
WHEN / WHERE DO I FOCUS BEST? Find the right place and time to work effectively.
3
WHAT DO I ALREADY KNOW ABOUT THIS? Link your work to prior knowledge you’ve gained to help assist you.
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HOW AM I GETTING ON? Look back at your work and review your progress.
2
WHAT ORDER SHOULD I STUDY? Manage your time, by planning a study timetable.
4
HOW DO I STUDY BEST? Find a way to study that suits you best, for example reading, using diagrams, chunking, quizzing yourself etc.
6
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW? Focus on areas that you need to develop, and improve them.
Students should: • Arrive well in time and ensure they know which room their exam is in • Keep belongings to a minimum • Bring with them their statement of entry and student ID card • Have their mobile turned off and not on their person • Inform the Exams Office if they are going to be absent on 030 300 38220 • Bring any pre-release material if it is required (this includes texts for English exams) • Have all the equipment they need in order to complete their exam Important Dates Summer exam results for GCE (A Levels) Thursday 18th August 2016. Summer exam results for GCSE Thursday 25th August 2016. Re-sits The deadline for resit payments was February 21st, so entries now attract double fees. These will further increase from April 20th.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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COLLEGE EVENTS
EAST SUSSEX ACADEMY OF MUSIC EVENTS 2016 AS COMPOSITION CONCERT Thursday 5th May, 18.00, Lewes PAC Hall We give the AS students a chance to perform their own composition (or provide musicians for them) as part of their coursework which can be sent off to the examiner if they wish. Free entrance.
PRE-PROFESSIONAL ENSEMBLES CONCERT Tuesday 17th May, 18.00, venue TBC The last concert of the year for the pre-professional students.
BTEC FINAL SHOWCASE Thursday 26th May, 19.30, Lewes Con Club We take over Lewes Con Club for all our BTEC students to perform for the last time. Tickets £5.
MUSICAL FUTURES DAY Monday 13th June, Lewes PAC Hall We hold a careers fair for all AS student. We invite representatives and ex-students down from a range of conservatoires and universities so students get the chance to talk advice. Open all day.
SUMMER CONCERT Wednesday 22nd June, 19.30, Lewes Town Hall (TBC) We reach the end of the year with our final ESAM performance. Tickets £8.
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Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
GENERAL INFORMATION
Students’ Union JOIN THE SDC SU! Calling all students………
EARN WHILE YOU LEARN AS PART OF THE STUDENTS UNION TEAM Nominations are NOW open for ALL students to be part of next academic years Students Union Team.
Sussex Downs College Student Union presents
We have 8 roles on each campus including Vice President, Student Governor, Equality and Diversity, Communications, Entertainments and Student Officers. Team members are paid termly activities expenses dependant on the contributions they have made. For the first time this year we are also recruiting for a Sabbatical Officer. This will be a full time, cross college paid position which we hope will support, enhance and strengthen the student voice and is open to ANY student at the college who is able to give a full year’s commitment to the SU. Being part of the SDC SU team is an extremely rewarding and satisfying opportunity. We are the only FE union in the country to have been granted the NUS Quality Union award so our future team can look forward to some award winning activities. We are very proud of the diversity of the team’s membership which includes students from many, many different parts of the college but we can always improve on this and so we want all students from every part of the college to have a think about putting themselves forward for a role. If your child is interested and would like to know a bit more please ask them to contact me either by email: kitty.tucker@sussexdowns.ac.uk DM on twitter @StudentUnionSDC or pop in to one of the SU Offices.
END OF YEAR SUMMER FESTIVAL
FRIDAY 24TH JUNE 3 P M -1 1 P M
HOL I�P AINT�P A RTY
LIVE MUSIC / BRIGHTON ROX DJ'S
BOOZE TENT FAIRGROUND RIDES
ICE CREAM VAN
FOOD VENDORS EARLY BIRD VIP TICKETS ONLY £5.00 INC FREE T SHIRT + QUEUE JUMP TO PAINT PARTY TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM LEWES/EASTBOURNE CAMPUS STUDENT UNION OFFICE OR FROM WWW.SUFEST.CO.UK SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE, CROSS LEVELS WAY, EASTBOURNE BN21 2UF
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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COLLEGE EVENTS
SPORT LIFE at Sussex Downs College
SDC Sport-Life
Sport Students Coaching & Leadership Experience
How can Sussex Downs Sport benefit you?
Here at Sussex Downs College we see sport as a vocation as well as a recreational activity. With extensive facilities available and qualified specialist coaches providing sports opportunities for all. This is a great opportunity to make new friends, keep fit and healthy, trial a new sport or develop your preferred sport further. Opportunities are available for work experience in sport with current students acquiring valuable placements at local sport organisations ranging from coaching and teaching opportunities to physiotherapy and sports psychology opportunities. Leadership and coaching qualifications are also offered at the college, helping to develop key employability
skills.
3 REASONS TO CHOOSE SDC
1
2
3
STUDY SPORT
PLAY SPORT
DELIVER SPORT
Enrol onto one of our BTEC Sport or A level courses in sport and exercise science
Competitive and social opportunities that fit in around your college timetable
Learn and apply coaching and teaching knowledge to practical work experience
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Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
COLLEGE EVENTS
Why choose Sussex Downs College?
“We aim to offer students the best opportunities for progression, be it into higher education or straight into a lasting career” Mark Watts (Sport Curriculum Leader - Eastbourne) 2016
Specific qualifications in Gym Instruction, Personal training, Sport massage therapy, physical conditioning and fitness are provided to students free of charge. (These courses can cost upward of £1000 if done independently) Students will engage in professional work placements in local gyms, activity and leisure centres and sport clubs which are tailored to the interests and potential career choice of each student. This is achievable due to our network with the Eastbourne primary school P.E. association and affiliation with local sporting clubs such as Eastbourne Borough. Our classroom environment aims to be as innovative and unique as possible - offering students the opportunity to design and deliver
sporting challenges and activities with current students this year organising a three-peaks challenge exhibition taking place in the summer. Students with an interest in coaching, or a prior background in coaching are provided with the empowering opportunity to assist and even lead college sporting academies Students can also obtain a teaching qualification upon completion of their college studies with a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching & Development with Qualified teaching Status at undergraduate level. Meaning progression can go right through from education into a career. Sport Academies offered at SDC: Football, Rugby, Netball, Basketball, Golf. Competing at a variety of levels from county to national level.
PAST STUDENT PROGRESSIONS Previous students from SDC have progressed onto various sporting vocations and careers with examples such as golf scholarships in america, national level rugby and hockey, sport physiotherapy, gym instruction, teaching, coaching etc. Matt greenfield (left - 2013 Alumni) Tom Bailey (right - 2015 Alumni)
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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COLLEGE NEWS
Sussex Downs College alumna Katie Jones is one of nine designers who have been chosen to collaborate with Selfridges and the Centre for Sustainable Fashion as part of Bright New Things. 2016 marks the fifth year of Selfridges’ Bright Young Things talent platform, and this year’s focus is on sustainable and innovative design. Following her time studying Textiles and Art & Design at Sussex Downs College Lewes campus, Katie graduated from Central Saint Martin’s University of Art with an MA in knitwear in 2013. She now crafts imaginative and sustainable luxury knitwear from her studio in Stratford, East London.
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Katie Jones, former student of Sussex Downs College, said: “My sustainable practices started when I was a student. I had to be thrifty, so I used end-of-roll fabrics and unravelled charity shop jumpers for wool. Gradually, this mindset became my brand ethos.” Katie’s label takes a waste-not approach to design by sourcing surplus materials from British and Italian design houses, proving that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to be plain or unimaginative. Katie said: “Attending Sussex Downs College was the turning point in my education where I learnt it was possible to pursue a career doing something that I loved.” Sussex Downs College have endless lists of successful alumni who have passed through both campuses. Success stories include Abbie Shaw who is a designer for Stella McCartney, Troy Hyde who is Head of Graphic
SU SS
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SDC ALUMNI KATIE JONES IS AWARDED SELFRIDGES 2016 BRIGHT NEW THINGS BURSARY
EX
LU M NI
Design at Ted Baker Menswear and Nathan Bishop who is a bespoke tailor for Fielding & Nicholson of Saville Row. James DiBiase, Applied Art & Design Coordinator at Sussex Downs College, said: “Katie is one of many students who have flourished in the creative industry following their time at Sussex Downs College. Her achievements are a real inspiration to all students who study creative subjects with us. We have many career achievements in the Visual Arts at Sussex Downs College and with our guidance and encouragement there will be plenty more successes in the future.” To find our more about Sussex Downs College Alumni, visit: www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/alumni More of Katie’s work can be found on her website: www.katiejonesknit.co.uk
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
COLLEGE NEWS
James Thompson, a student at the University of Brighton’s School of Architecture has received a prize for excellence from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). James, 21, was the winner of the Degree Prize at Brighton. He received his Prize from Tony Foulger, Chair of RIBA Sussex Branch at the University’s recent graduation ceremony. The Prize, which celebrates the talent of architecture students at the University, is awarded by the Branch that represents nearly 800 architects across East and West Sussex. James received a certificate and a cheque for £200. The Prize was awarded at Brighton School of Architecture’s End of Year Show, for students’ work. The judges were impressed with James’ ideas for a series of archival and gallery spaces for Seaford Photographic Society.
His design was for an addition to a derelict pub in Pelham Yard, Seaford. James says: ‘The project developed into an architecture based on the elements and behaviour of a film camera. I developed the ideas of apertures, depth of field and perception of space to inform the design.’ The judges were extremely impressed with the high quality of James’s presentation, commenting that it ‘demonstrated thorough research and a clear journey to a well-considered, mature scheme’. James is from Eastbourne, and attended St Richard’s Catholic College in Bexhill and Sussex Downs College, Eastbourne. He has just completed his three-year Part 1 course towards qualifying as an architect, which in the United Kingdom takes at least seven years.
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SU SS
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ARCHITECTURE STUDENT FROM EASTBOURNE IS AWARDED RIBA PRIZE
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Notes: •
The RIBA Student Prizes at Brighton School of Architecture are funded by the Lovell Memorial Trust, a charity administered by the RIBA regional office. The Trust was set up in 1939, in memory of the architect Richard Goulburn Lovell who founded the South Eastern Society of Architects in 1928.
•
The judges of the RIBA Student Prizes at Brighton School of Architecture were Tony Foulger of Brighton & Hove Council, Chair of RIBA Sussex Branch; Alan Cronshaw of Acronym Architecture & Design; and Andy Parsons of Yelo Architecture.
•
The full list of Student Prizewinners 2015 in south east England is here.
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COLLEGE NEWS
PERFORMING ARTS INTERVAL NEWS In addition to see other productions we have been busy, as usual, putting on our own, giving our students their friends and family, and the general public the opportunity to see the high standards of performance and production within our own department. Single Performing Arts and Production Arts students, coordinated by Phil Rose, and produced Women in Shakespeare at Anne of Cleves house in Lewes and an evening of Naturalistic scenes. Production Arts students also played an integral part, working with local designers and venues, in the acclaimed Lewes Light Festival. Phil continues to use his extensive local contacts to really explore performance opportunities for his students, and to feed back into Lewes’ artistic environment.
Half way through our production year gives us a chance to reflect on what has gone on so far this year in our department. We started with a whole departmental trip to see Rebecca by Kneehigh Theatre at the Theatre Royal Brighton, with whom with have fantastic links. About 250 students and staff took in a fantastic show, and through contacts with the creative team behind it were praised for our enthusiasm and appreciation of the production. It was a great induction for new and second year students and a chance for them to bond in preparation for their own work. This has been followed up with a number of other trips, which both enrich and educate the students in the development of their own studies and practice. Our Single Performing Arts students went to the Globe to see Measure For Measure; Double Performing Arts saw
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He Had Hairy Hands by Kill the Beast at the Old Market in Hove; Production Arts visited the PLASA trade exhibition, Royal Opera House and wonder.land; AS Drama went to The Hairy Ape by Eugene O’Neill in London, and A2 toured the Globe and the National Theatre and rounded off their trip with a fantastic performance of As You Like It in the Olivier Theatre. There are more trips planned, including The Suicide, a modern adaptation of a classic Soviet comedy at the National, and a return to the Globe for A Midsummer Night’s Dream in its new season. We also hosted our annual Careers and Progression Day which gave the opportunity for students across both campuses to explore their progression opportunities even further through talks and workshops from a range of institutions including London Studio, East 15, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, Bournemouth, Chichester, Rose Bruford, ALRA and Central School of Speech and Drama.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
Production Arts students also took part in the Royal Opera House Challenge again, and won, again, Luke Hopkins achieving in the Set Design category. Drama and Theatre Studies students, coordinated by Tristan Brolly, took over local arts venue the All Saints Centre for the All Saints Project, their festival of devising. This has become an annual fixture in the calendar with 6 excellent pieces of work being shown over two nights, and is a fantastic way for our A Level students to explore their assessed work in very real environment, and at the same time contribute to the local creative culture, a unique opportunity, developed by Tristan and the team, for A evel Drama students in this area. Musical Theatre students, coordinated by Linda Banks, and supported by the vocal teaching abilities of Claire Carpenter, worked in conjunction with the Dance and Music Departments to present two Evenings of Musical Theatre. These featured the fantastic talents our students have across the three performance disciplines, and showed the quality and development of our newest, and increasingly popular course. Some of these pieces then went on to feature at the student awards night, where the students contributed to a highly successful evening. Our Double Performing Arts year two cohort, coordinated by Kerry
COLLEGE NEWS
Smallhorne, were busy producing and touring their pantomimes to schools and for 3 evening performances. Alice in Pantoland, Snow White and Jack and the Beans Talk performed to nearly 1500 local children, and have become an institution in the Christmas festivities for local schools. This year we went to Pells, Western Road, Southover, Firle, Lewes New, Seaford Primary, South Malling and Hamsey. The evening performances also gave the wider public
“IN NEW YORK, WE WILL BE CATCHING UP WITH ONE OF OUR ALUMNI, DAN GARNHAM, WHO WAS RECENTLY SEEN PROPOSING TO HIS GIRLFRIEND ON ANT AND DEC’S SATURDAY NIGHT TAKEAWAY, AND IS CURRENTLY PERFORMING WITH THE BLUE MAN GROUP IN NEW YORK.” an opportunity to see the professional level of their work. They have also been involved with Sussex Police, in a positive way, working as professional actors in role play to help train CID officers, an ongoing relationship that continues to develop, and offers real work to our students.
with award winning Brighton-based performers and alumni, the Hiccup Project. The second half of our year, as usual, will be as busy, starting with our New York Trip which we run with the Dance department. We will be taking 76 students on a five day trip to take part in workshops at the New York Film Academy, with whom we have excellent progression links, watch shows on and off Broadway and soak up the cultural atmosphere. We will also be catching up with one of our alumni, Dan Garnham, who was recently seen proposing to his girlfriend on Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway, and is currently performing with the Blue Man Group in New York, one of the shows we will be seeing. As usual, all our shows are open for you to come and watch, it would be great for the students to have your support. If you want any further information, please contact us in the Performing Arts Department at Lewes. Lastly, our progression weeks in June will see visiting shows and performers, successful alumni, to share progression advice with our current students, and the chance for them to start preparing themselves for their auditions and applications next year. We can’t finish without thanking the person who makes all this possible, our technician/LRA Martin Chick who supports and facilitates all these shows, as well as those for Dance and the wider college. Linda Banks and Andrew Stanley Curriculum Leaders.
Performing Arts
PERFORMANCES 3-4 May 7pm Single Performing Arts Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Studio Theatre, Performing Arts Centre
10-12 May 7pm Musical Theatre Students CATS MPH, Lewes
17-19 May 6.30pm Double Performing Arts Three contemporary shows, Uranium 235, The Government Inspector and The Visit Studio Theatre, Performing Arts Centre
25-26 May 6.30pm Musical Theatre Students A collection of mini musicals - Thirteen, The Spelling Bee, Chicago and Sister Act Studio Theatre, Performing Arts Centre
Double Performing Arts year one cohort, coordinated by Andrew Stanley, presented their New Works Project, a festival of 9 original physical theatre pieces, created in conjunction Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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COLLEGE NEWS
AND IN OTHER NEWS...
Click on a headline to read the full story.
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SUSSEX DOWNS STUDENTS GET CREATIVE FOR SICK CHILDREN
SUSSEX DOWNS INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE CELEBRATES NUMBER ONE POSITION
STUDENTS RECEIVE ADVICE ON HOW TO MAKE THEIR MARK
PRINCE’S TRUST STUDENTS REACH FOR THE MOON
NHS APPRENTICE WINS AWARD
STUDENTS COMPLETE IRONMANS IN AID OF CHARITY Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
COLLEGE NEWS
SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE MARKS NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK
STUDENTS JOIN THEIR LOCAL MP’S TO MARK INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY AT WESTMINSTER
PUPPY LOVE AT SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE
LGBT HISTORY MONTH ENDS WITH A SPECTACULAR EVENING THANKS TO THE DRAG WITH NO NAME
STUDENTS HAVE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME IN GERMAN EXCHANGE PROGRAMME
w e i v o t e r e h Click r e h t o r u o f all o n o s e i r o t s s new . . . e t i s b e w our Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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GENERAL INFORMATION
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Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
GENERAL INFORMATION
GENERAL INFORMATION
EXAMS OFFICE
RE-SITS
Please note that in order to make efficiencies Statements of Entry and Results for GCSE/GCE exams will no longer be posted home but sent to students’ College email accounts. Students are personally responsible for providing their own equipment for their exams and the Exams Office will not be able to supply equipment (calculators, etc). We provide a minimal amount of ‘spare’ equipment in each venue but this will only be available to students who have a problem with their own equipment (eg. breakages during the exam). The Exams Office will charge a standard non-attendance fee (to post-16 students) of £10 for any timetabled exam or assessment missed without supporting evidence. Students will be asked to present their Student ID card in all examinations in order to prove identity. IMPORTANT DATES Summer exam results for GCE – Thursday 18th August 2016. Summer exam results for GCSE – Thursday 25th August 2016.
Students now have the ability to book and pay for their GCE/GCSE re-sits online. The system is now live and is accessible from the Exams Office page of the main SDC website. Alternatively students can visit the Exams Office and complete a re-sit application from.
STUDY PROGRAMME AGREEMENTS Students who are 16 – 19 years old or 19 – 25 years old with a Learning Difficulty Assessment or Education Health and Care Plan are following what is known as A Study Programme, which is funded in a particular way by Central Government. In order to access this funding, one of the key pieces of evidence that the college needs to retain is a Study Programme Agreement signed by the student and their allocated Progress Tutor. This agreement, outlines the course the student is following and the number of planned learning hours this involves. These forms are now ready for signature with the Progress Tutors. Please can we ask you to encourage your son or daughter to go to their tutor before 20 November, to check the details of these forms are correct and to sign them. Thank you.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS We have a number of financial support funds available to help students who are experiencing financial hardship with the costs of coming to college. We may be able to help with travel, books, equipment, kit, uniform, materials, childcare, in some cases tuition fees/exam fees. Some students may also be eligible for Free Meals whilst at college. If you are facing financial difficulties please contact Student Services for more information Eastbourne 030 300 39900 or Lewes 030 300 38765
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GENERAL INFORMATION
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION WHY DOES ATTENDANCE MATTER? There have been numerous studies in recent years into the effects of poor attendance on achievement. Information published by the government states that of school children who miss less than 5% of lessons, 73% achieve five GCSEs at A* - C. This reduces right down to only a 35% achievement rate where children’s attendance is between 80% and 90% and just 3% of children get 5 GCSEs A* - C where their attendance is 50% or lower. It is this significant statistic which drives our attendance monitoring process. We are determined to support students to attend because we know the impact on their potential to achieve.
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES AT SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE At Sussex Downs College we expect students to have an attendance record of at least 95% and are quick to chase up when the figure begins to drop. In the first instance students will receive an email to alert them that their attendance has dropped to below 95% (amber alert) or 90 (red alert) and to advise them to speak to their progress tutor about any significant issues which are impacting on them maintaining full attendance. This is followed up with a letter to parents/carers if concern continues to help open up dialogue between home and college, and then a further letter may be sent to arrange a meeting between student and progress tutor in order to set relevant and measurable targets in line with the college student concern procedures, with regular review of these targets and progression through the student concern procedure where appropriate.
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WHAT THE NUMBERS MEAN
can help them with this. College differs from school in the greater freedom afforded to students.
In order to monitor student attendance we look at a weekly attendance figure combined with the attendance dates for the previous 8 college weeks. Students are contacted when both criteria for concern are met.
Managing independent study time and breaks between classes is a new skill for many young people, but an important ability that will be taken forward to further study or the workplace.
For a student on a standard level 3 program, attending approx. 10 sessions per week this means:
%
Lessons missed in 1 week
Lessons missed in 8 weeks
Lessons missed in a year
95%
0.5
4
17.5
90%
1
8
35
85%
1.5
12
52.5
80%
2
16
70
75%
2.5
20
87.5
70%
3
24
105
65%
3.5
28
122.5
60%
4
32
140
55%
4.5
36
157.5
50%
5
40
175
IMPROVING ATTENDANCE With such a high college expectation it is very easy for attendance records to slip with just a few missed classes. There are times where absence is unavoidable, but there are some small steps that students can take to help prevent missing classes unnecessarily which you can help encourage: Where there is control, arrange appointments outside of timetabled lesson times. Remember the time needed to travel. When late to a class, it is better to still attend than to decide to skip it entirely. A late mark will not have a negative impact on attendance like an absent mark will.
If missing classes is due to something more serious, such as a feeling of not coping with the workload, it is vitally important that you speak to your teachers or your progress tutor as soon as you can to give you the best chance of turning the situation around. They are here to help.
AUTHORISED VS UNAUTHORISED In the past schools were criticised by the government for having high levels of unauthorised absence where children missed school with no explanation. The unintended consequence was that schools got better at authorising absence, but this focus on unauthorised absence deflected attention away from the most important issue - that all absence is bad for a young person’s education. At Sussex Downs College we look at our students’ attendance as a whole. It is important that any unavoidable absence is authorised, but this is a separate issue to attendance monitoring, and even though there will be cases where we know there are good reasons for missing classes, we will still take steps if this has had a significant impact on attendance. In some rare cases the 95% expectation will not be realistic for a student, but it is important that this is addressed with tutors, teachers, students and parents in order that we can make sure appropriate measures are in place to support achievement.
Good planning of time between classes is beneficial. Students should avoid going too far from the college campus where possible. They should be using the library to complete homework or the common room or outside areas to take breaks. If they are finding it hard to manage their time, please encourage a meeting with their progress tutor who
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
GENERAL INFORMATION
ABSENCES AND CLOSURES
THE ABSENCE LINE
SEVERE WEATHER NOTICES
EXAMS
It is really important that any unavoidable absences are reported to the absence line so that we can record these, help inform tutors and teachers, and make sure registers are accurate, Please contact:
If the weather is poor please check the Sussex Downs College website regularly. It is your primary source for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding any College closures. We will aim to update the website from 7.00am each day.
Unless there is complete College closure, students entered for exams should attend them as planned. If a student is unable to attend their examination for any reason then they should phone the appropriate Examinations Office for advice on 030 300 39310 (Lewes) or 030 300 38220 (Eastbourne). The Exams Office will not be staffed when there is a full College closure.
Eastbourne: Tel: 01323 637417 Email: eastbourne.absence@sussexdowns.ac.uk Lewes: Tel: 030 300 39808 (local rate call) Email: lewesabsence@sussexdowns.ac.uk
Updates will also appear on the College Twitter and Facebook Sites. If the website is unavailable for any reason you should check these for the latest information (a Twitter or Facebook account is not required). In the event of snow/ice staff, students and visitors should take care on campus, for example by wearing appropriate footwear, and keeping to cleared pathways. Be aware of your surroundings and take care.
Visit www.sussexdowns.ac.uk for more news and information
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