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*Source: National Success Rate Tables 2010/11 11/07/2012 16:03
If you would find it easier to read this guide in larger type or a different format, please ask at Reception or Student Services.
Term Dates 2012/13 Autumn
Autumn term starts Half term week Autumn term ends
Spring
Spring term starts Half term week Spring term ends
Summer
Summer term starts Half term week Summer term ends
Monday 3 September Monday 15 October Friday 21 December
Monday 7 January Monday 18 February Thursday 28 March
Monday 15 April Monday 27 May Friday 19 July
DISCLAIMER re that this handbook is correct at the Whilst every effort has been made to ensu beyond the College’s reasonable time of going to press, due to circumstances and facilities offered. control, changes may occur to the services
2
© City College Plymouth 2012
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Welcome from the Principal On behalf of all the staff at City College Plymouth, welcome! City College Plymouth is one of the highest performing colleges of further education in the country. We are first in the South West, and 6th nationally, for the achievement of our students.* By studying with us you are more likely to achieve your qualification, and therefore, you are more likely to progress on to university or your chosen career path than if you studied elsewhere. We pride ourselves in offering you a friendly and supportive learning environment and are totally committed to: • celebrating the diversity of our community, and welcoming everyone • ensuring that you feel respected and valued, and that you are not discriminated against or harassed • providing a safe, healthy and smoke-free environment • developing high quality courses that are well taught, stimulating and lead to employment or a higher level course • incorporating employability skills and enterprise in your course • continuing to enhance College facilities and equipment to showcase a realistic working environment • enriching your time at College through a vibrant College community with a wideranging programme of activities open to all students • encouraging you to be an active member of our community, feeding back on all the services we provide.
In return we ask that as a student at City College Plymouth you make the most of your time with us. We can help you achieve more than you thought possible if you are committed to your studies, aim high and strive for 100% attendance. And if you think that something could go wrong, please come and talk to one of the many staff available to help you. Whether you are a new or returning student, this easy-to-read handbook is packed with information to help guide you through your time at the College. Please keep it with you throughout the year as a useful source of reference for contact numbers, key dates and support services - and to ensure that you make the most of your time at City College Plymouth. Please take the time to read the College and Student Charters (see page 21 and 22). These tell you what you can expect from the College - our service standards - and what the College expects from you. Have a good year and I wish you every success with your course. Yours sincerely
Phil Davies Principal
*Source: National Success Rate Tables 2010/11 all data
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Contents A Welcoming and Safe Environment Equality and diversity
Sports Therapy Clinic
9
College gym
9
4
Student Centres
9
Recycling
9
Every student matters
4
Respecting diversity
4
Anti-bullying and harassment
4
Being safe at the College
4
10
Mediation
5
Enjoying College College life Student Liaison team
Students’ Union
11
Getting involved
12
6
College News
12
6
Student intranet
13
Coming to College Employability Student Services
10
International students
7
Social media
13
Finance and money matters
7
Football Development Centre
13
Travel
7
Course Information
Facilities
Induction
14
Childcare
8
Identity cards
14
Parking
8
Tutorial system
14
Bicycle storage
8
Your commitment
14
Refectory
8
8
Making sure that you are on the right course
15
CitĂŠ Brasserie and Delicatessen
Enrolment
Wholefood Delights
15
9
College Shop
9
Pure Hair and Day Spa
9
Creative Solutions salons
9
College chaplaincy and faith support 9
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Helping You to Study Learning support
16
Learning Resources services
18
Computers and your IT account
18
Moodle
18
Your Next Steps Careers education and guidance service
19
Lifestyle 20 College Charter 21 Student Charter 22 Talkback - comments and complaints 23 Your Responsibilities as a Student Health, safety and welfare 24
Emergency information
25
First aid
25
Your health and safety responsibilities 26
Policies Data protection 27
Parental contact
27
Computing and digital equipment
27
Discipline and conduct
27
Misconduct
28
Useful Contacts
Back cover
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A Welcoming and Safe Environment … Equality and diversity This is a College of respect where we welcome and value people from all backgrounds and cultures. We recognise and celebrate diversity and actively oppose discrimination. We encourage good relationships between different groups in the community. Everyone at College is expected to treat people with respect and dignity. We work hard to support every student to succeed.
from across Plymouth, the region, the country and in fact the world. The College celebrates this diversity of backgrounds and beliefs, and we believe that it enhances the experience we offer you as students. The student body is representative of society, and each sub group of society has its own set of beliefs and needs. The College wants each of these groups to have a voice, and actively seeks their opinions (see page 12 - Student Voice section).
Every student matters
Anti-bullying and harassment
It is important to us that we encourage you to: • be healthy • stay safe • enjoy and achieve • make a positive contribution • achieve economic well-being. We do this in a number of ways, including: • being a safe, healthy and smokefree environment • supporting you with your learning by providing services that you can go to for help • offering advice and support with health issues • having a zero-tolerance policy on bullying • supporting you to make plans for your future • celebrating your successes. The Student Liaison team’s calendar of events provides activities throughout the academic year with themes to promote and support this (see page 10).
Respecting diversity The College community is made up of a wide range of people, students and staff, who come
The College is clear with all members of the College community about its position on harassment, victimisation and bullying; these are totally unacceptable. Threatening and violent behaviour are major disciplinary offences. Other students may not share your ideas of what is funny or acceptable. Thoughtless comments, unkind personal remarks and name-calling, in any form including cyber-bullying, can all be offensive.
Being safe at the College The College takes its responsibilities for the safety and well-being of all its students very seriously. Safeguarding includes health and safety (including e-safety), anti-bullying, protection from abuse or exploitation, avoiding potentially harmful activities and associated welfare issues. If you feel that you are at risk from harm, or feel that another student is at risk, please speak to your personal tutor, a member of Students Services or the Safeguarding team.
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… where everyone is treated fairly Safeguarding Team • Phil Smale - Safeguarding Coordinator 01752 305296 • Caroline Hewer - Safeguarding Officer 01752 305798 • Bridgette Henry - Safeguarding Officer 01752 305757 • Karen Kingdom - Safeguarding Officer 01752 305363 • Mary Smith - Safeguarding Officer 01752 305841 • Syd Dart - Safeguarding Officer 01752 856811 • Cheryl Powell - Safeguarding Officer 01752 856827 • Debbie Bowers - Safeguarding Officer 01752 856815 • Andrew Spry - Safeguarding Officer 01752 305365 • Karen Coburn - Safeguarding Administrator 01752 305756 There are information posters around the College with all the contact details.
REMEMBER - if you feel bullied or victimised seek help from a member of staff. Mediation The College provides a mediation service which is confidential and impartial, and offers support to all students and staff. Mediators can: • help prevent harassment and bullying • help with meetings to try and resolve issues • approach individual parties on your behalf. You can contact us by e-mail (mediators@cityplym.ac.uk) or by telephone: • Karen Coburn 01752 305756 • Julia Murphy 01752 305340 • Roxy Prosser 01752 306014 • Kerry Wilton 01752 305862.
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Coming to College Employability
Coming to College is all about equipping you with the necessary skills and attributes that will help you find a job at the end of your course. Our new drop-in centre for students theworkspace - provides a wide range of activities focused on ensuring you gain the skills that employers want. Equipped with a range of IT resources, centre staff will be on-hand to support you by booking you onto workshops and arranging employer visits, or putting you in touch with external volunteering and community groups. From your first day at City College Plymouth we will support you in being able to access: • FREE employer lectures - giving you an insight into particular jobs and the progression opportunities available • FREE workshops where you can enhance your CV writing and presentation skills • FREE industry visits and tours. For more information Call: 01752 856825 E-mail: theworkspace@cityplym.ac.uk Visit: theworkspace at Kings Road (next to reception)
Student Services
The Student Services team supports all College students and can help students get support from any of the other student support teams in the College, and where appropriate, other external support agencies. The team is staffed by trained information, advice and guidance professionals that provide friendly, informal and impartial advice and guidance. Kings Road Help Desk Location: on the main corridor, next to the College shop Open: Monday to Thursday, 8.30am to 4.30pm and Fridays, 8.30am to 4.00pm all year round
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Goschen Help Desk Location: on the first floor of C block, next to the library Open: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 3.30pm term time only
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Part-time students who do not attend during the day are welcome to contact Student Services to arrange a meeting outside of these hours. Alternatively, drop-in for informal advice with a careers adviser at Kings Road on Thursdays between 11.00am and 12.00 noon, and at Goschen on Tuesdays between 11.00am and 12.00 noon. No appointment necessary. You can ask for help with: • planning your next step (courses, training, employment) • finance for study • learning support or counselling • mediation or counselling • nurseries, including a kids’ club • transport to College • careers advice • CV writing • finding a job • completing application forms and speculative letters • occupational decision making • help and advice with any matter affecting your studies.
International students
If you are an international student please contact the International Office for advice on issues such as accommodation, visa renewal, healthcare and the ability to work whilst on a student visa. For more information Call: 01752 305857 E-mail: international@cityplym.ac.uk
Finance and money matters The Student Funding team can provide advice and guidance on the financial support available to students, and help you with an application. This includes: • sources of financial support for young people and adults: - 16 to 19 Bursaries - Care to Learn (C2L) - childcare for young parents
• • • • •
- Residential Support - Discretionary Learner Support (dLS) tuition fee remission emergency hardship sources of alternative funds - education trusts and charities higher education loans, grants and allowances transport options and financial support.
For any of the financial support schemes you will need to provide evidence of your household income for the previous financial year (2011/12). For tuition fee remission, any benefit letters need to be dated within six weeks of your course starting. Other financial support may be available depending on individual circumstances. The team offers bookable appointments and runs regular drop-in sessions at both Kings Road and Goschen. For more information Call: 01752 305381 E-mail: studentfunding@cityplym.ac.uk Visit: Student Funding office, Kings Road and Goschen
Travel
The College offers: • a FREE College shuttle bus between Plymouth city centre, Kings Road and Goschen - Citybus number 36 and parallel service number 26. Drivers are instructed to allow free travel for students without an ID card for the first week of the autumn term • subsidised bus passes for students (subject to certain criteria) • bus and train operator discounts. However, if you have Special Educational Needs you must apply to your local authority for transport support. For further information please contact: • Devon County Council on 0845 155 1019, or • Cornwall County Council on 0300 1234 222. For more information Call: 01752 305381 E-mail: studentfunding@cityplym.ac.uk Visit: Student Funding office, Kings Road and Goschen
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Facilities Childcare Curious Kittens Day Nurseries If you are a parent, our outstanding nurseries will enable you to study knowing that your children (six months to school entry age) are being looked after in a stimulating and caring environment. Nurseries are located at both Kings Road and Goschen. Most students will be eligible for help with childcare costs - please contact the Student Funding team on 01752 305381 for more information. Application forms are available from the nurseries. Both our nurseries have been graded ‘outstanding’ in Ofsted inspections in 2012. Kids’ Club During the school holidays we run a popular and flexible Kids’ Club for children aged five to 11 years. An afterschool club is run at both Kings Road and Goschen - please contact the nurseries for information.
Parking There is limited parking for you at Kings Road and Goschen. There is some ‘on street’ parking at all centres, but some areas are for residents only. Disabled parking is located by the main entrances at both Kings Road and Goschen. Bicycle storage The College works hard to support sustainability and improve the environment, and therefore provides a number of bike lockers to encourage you to cycle. These lockers are available on a first come, first served basis at Kings Road, Goschen and the Estover Technology Centre. There is also a free bike compound located at Kings Road - cyclists will need a bike lock to secure their bike within the compound. For more information Call: 01752 305740
Refectory The College’s catering service, Aramark, believes in providing its customers with good quality food and service. The College was awarded Fairtrade status in January 2009. Breakfast, lunch, snacks and refreshments are served throughout the day at both the Kings Road and Goschen refectories. Drinks and snacks are also available from vending machines. For more information Call: 01752 305840 Cité Brasserie and Deli Café The brasserie and deli café at Kings Road are open daily between 10.30am and 1.30pm. A range of hot and cold drinks, light lunches, toasted snacks, freshly prepared soups and salads plus a variety of cakes and pastries are made and served by catering and hospitality students. For more information Call: 01752 305777 E-mail: cite@cityplym.ac.uk
For more information Call: 01752 305345 E-mail: curiouskittensnursery @cityplym.ac.uk
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Wholefood Delights Wholefood Delights sells a range of wholefoods, including organic products such as nuts, seeds, dried fruits, rice and healthy snacks. It is run by skills development students and is located outside the Sports Hall at Kings Road. For more information E-mail: wholefooddelights@ cityplym.ac.uk College Shop There are shops at Kings Road and Goschen which sell magazines, newspapers, greeting cards, a range of stationery, confectionery, crisps and drinks. The shop at Goschen incorporates a Costa Coffee outlet and has a comfy seating area. There is a separate Costa Coffee outlet at the entrance of Kings Road and one in the Kings Road refectory. Pure Hair and Day Spa Pure is our fantastic industrystandard training salon. It offers a full range of services from full luxury day spa packages to your regular essential hair and beauty needs, such as cut and blow drys, nail treatments and waxing. For more information Call: 01752 856900 Web: www.cityplym.ac.uk/pure
injury and those who would like Creative Solutions salons a sports massage. Our beauty therapy students run the professionally equipped For more information Creative Solutions Beauty Salon Call: 01752 305737 at Kings Road. They offer a College gym full range of body treatments, gym is equipped with The facials, waxing and nail of cardio-vascular range a enhancements at reduced rates. equipment, including Our hairdressing students run treadmills, rowing machines, the Creative Solutions Hair cross-trainers, running Salon at Kings Road. They machines and free weights. The provide free consultations and gym is open to all students with advice on hair care and product an activity plus pass - only £30 ranges. for a whole year! For more information Student Centres Call: 01752 305335 We have Student Centres at College chaplaincy and faith both Kings Road and Goschen support with comfortable seating, table Open to all members of the tennis, pool tables, plasma College - students and staff screens, Wifi, PlayStations, and - of any faith, little or none. much more! We aim to provide support, Recycling links to places of worship, and faith about ion informat The College is spiritual events, and can help committed to you set up a faith group. Quiet reducing the amount of waste Kings at provided are rooms we produce. We have a number Goschen and B) Road (KW039 of recycling facilities across available are Keys . (GC230) all sites - including glass and help Services Student from the clothing. The Student Centres desks. at Kings Road and Goschen have recycling bins to collect For more information paper, cans and plastic bottles. Call: 01752 305302 You are encouraged to ‘do your Sports Therapy Clinic bit’ and recycle the waste that Injured? Why not visit the you generate. Sports Therapy Clinic located at Kings Road? The clinic is run as part of our sports therapy and conditioning courses. It offers help to those with a sporting When you have finished with this, please recycle it.
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Enjoying College Student Liaison team
The Student Liaison team consists of enthusiastic staff all with individual expertise, but one common quality - they love working in a buzzing student environment, organising activities and creating positive student communities.
College life
City College Plymouth believes it is important that there is more to College life than attending your course. We have staff committed to creating a vibrant student community by running enrichment activities, providing dedicated student space and by encouraging all of you, as students, to get involved with what happens at your College. We have a calendar of events and activities running throughout the year to promote local and national issues, and to support you with your progression either on to employment, higher education or further courses. There are loads of ways to get involved with College life! You might want to be your course rep, join one of our clubs or societies, contribute to the website or student magazine, stand in the Students’ Union (SU) elections, or be part of the team of students who manage the SU. Read on to find out more ...
There are loads of ways to get involved with College life!
The team delivers an ‘enrichment’ programme throughout the study year. This includes a range of activities taking place in the Student Centres. They also organise a schedule of weekly activities such as kayaking, basketball, circuit training, Zumba, T’ai Chi and netball, and run trips to places such as Alton Towers. The team also runs the College gym which is available to students for just £30 a year. This price includes free induction and personalised programmes to suit your training needs. Everything the Student Liaison team does is tailored to suit your needs, to support your studies and your social life - in either case, they are here to help you achieve your personal goals. Becoming a student at City College Plymouth means you have access to another vital part of the College, the Students’ Union (SU) - this is your representational student body. The Student Liaison team works hand-in-hand with your SU elected officers to develop student facilities and services, and to ensure that being part of the College means being part of a vibrant and active community.
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Support Student Liaison Assistants offer a support network to help you if you are experiencing difficulties with your course, making friends, or having trouble balancing your social life with the demands of College. Make sure you pop into a Student Centre and say ‘hello’. Alternatively, talk to your tutor who will ask one of the team to contact you. For more information Call: 01752 305848 E-mail: studentliaison@cityplym.ac.uk Visit: Student Centres, Kings Road and Goschen
A bonus of belonging to the SU is that you can get a National Union of Students’ (NUS) Extra card. This entitles you to an array of discounts including VUE cinemas, Amazon.co.uk, Superdrug, Topshop and hundreds of others. The card is available from the SU at a cost of £11 - call in at the start of the year and get a full year’s worth of discounts! For more information E-mail: supresident@cityplym.ac.uk Web: www.ccpsu.org.uk
Students’ Union
Hi, I’m Luke Taylor. I was voted in as your Students’ Union (SU) president in June.
As a student at the College you have automatic membership to our SU - an independent, student-led organisation making sure that your voice is listened to and that the College is doing everything it can to give you the best experience possible. An example of our work is the setting up of a Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender (LGBT) Society. Later in the autumn term there will be elections for our Executive Officers. If you are interested come and have a chat. The SU Executive works with the College to make sure decisions are made that make the College an even better place for us. I can’t do this on my own - I need your help! Next summer there will be elections for a new president.
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Enjoying College Getting involved - student voice
Here at the College we believe that every student should be encouraged to take ownership of their education, and that as a student you have a valuable contribution to make to the leadership and running of the College by giving us your perspective. This in turn helps the College further raise the quality of our teaching and learning, facilities and services - which will then help improve your experience of College and your achievements, academically and personally. As well as joining the Students’ Union, you can get involved and have your say through: • Course Reps - each group of each course elects a Course Representative in the first half of the autumn term. The Course Rep collects your feedback - good and bad to provide a student view of the course, the College and the services we provide. The Course Reps then feedback at course meetings, student focus groups, student council and Student Conference • student surveys and focus groups - there are regular student surveys collecting views from all students about their experience of College. The Course Reps give a further insight to the survey results in the student focus groups
• Student Council - this is open to all students,
is facilitated by the College, and chaired by a student. The Council’s role is to ensure that there is representation from all the different groups that make up the student community at the College • Student Conferences - are open to all Course Reps and any other interested students. It provides a formal forum for student feedback about any aspect of the College and a way for College staff to feedback on changes that have been made following student input • Student Governors - two students are elected to sit on the College Corporation. One is usually the Students’ Union President, the other could be you! As members of the Corporation the Student Governors are involved with determining the strategic direction of the College • Talkback - this is for comments and complaints about the College (see page 23). For more information Call: 01752 305848 E-mail: studentliaison@cityplym.ac.uk Visit: Student Centres, Kings Road and Goschen
College News (the student magazine)
You should have already received a copy of College News - it is a termly magazine filled with details of forthcoming events and activities, useful information based on the time of year and feedback on changes made as a result of student input. The content for each edition is pulled together by an editorial team that includes students. It is your magazine - tell us what you want to read about! For more information Call: 01752 305105 E-mail: marketing@cityplym.ac.uk
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Keep up-to-date - visit studentintranet.cityplym.ac.uk
Student intranet
The student intranet is an information portal designed to keep you updated on what’s happening at the College and make access to other facilities (like your College e-mail) much simpler. You will find the student intranet on all College PCs, but you can connect to it from anywhere (including from your mobile phone) using the address studentintranet.cityplym.ac.uk. You’ll find all the information you need about the College - whether it is about help with funding your course, accessing your timetable, or keeping up with College events. All the information in this handbook is stored there too! The student intranet is the best way to keep up-to-date with what’s going on at the College - it is where we make announcements about services and activities, and share news, but it’s also a place where you can give your views. Take a look at the ‘Student Voice’ section for more details. Customise your pages A key feature of the intranet is that you can customise your homepage by adding or removing ‘widgets’, adding bookmarks to your favourite websites, importing your own calendar items and changing your viewing settings to make the pages suit you.
Social Media
There is an official Facebook page and Twitter feed to help spread news and information about the College and its students. We’d love for you to get involved!
www.facebook.com/cityplym This is an online meeting place for students past, present and future! We’ll post photos from around the College and share news, views and events.
www.twitter.com/cityplym Follow us on Twitter for news and events from in and around the College.
Football Development Centre
The Football Development Centre offers its players access to the latest training tools such as a strength and conditioning suite and performance analysis software. If you are under 19 years of age, you can combine expert football coaching and fitness conditioning with a full-time course at the College. For more information Call: 01752 305300 E-mail: info@cityplym.ac.uk
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Course Information Induction
The tutorial system
Identity cards
Your personal tutor will work with you regularly to review your progress, and is your first point of contact for any queries. They are here to support you. You will be set work targets regularly which will be recorded and reviewed on your Individual Learning Plan (ILP), which can be accessed electronically via the student intranet.
During induction you will get to know members of staff and other students, and receive full information about your course, as well as more information about the College and the student intranet. As a new student you should attend a College induction programme, where you will be welcomed by the Principal or Deputy Principal and hear about how the College will support you during your time here. Again, if you have not had this, please speak to your tutor, or drop in to the Student Services help desks.
The College has a system of photo identity cards for all students and staff. This helps us provide a better service and to improve the security of both individuals and their/or the College’s property. Please ensure that you have your ID card with you at all times when in College. You will be issued with your card at the time of enrolment. You will be expected to show your card, when requested - which is proof that you are a College student. You will need this when using facilities at the College, for example, the library or the free College shuttle bus. If you lose your ID card, please contact your faculty office as soon as possible. For information, staff wear their ID cards on blue or green lanyards, the green identifies a first aider. Visitors and contractors wear visitor badges on a red lanyard.
As part of your course you will be allocated a personal tutor to support you with your programme of study and progression. He or she will: • help you settle into College (induction) • meet you regularly to discuss your progress • set targets with you to help you achieve your aims • develop your employment and personal skills • ensure you have the support you need to succeed in your studies.
If you are on a full-time course you will also meet with your tutor to engage in a range of activities to support your personal development and career aspirations.
Your commitment
It is your responsibility to attend all classes and assessments, you must notify your tutor via the faculty administrator on the same day if you are unable to attend - the contact number is on the back of your student ID card. You are expected to complete and submit work on time, to work with your tutors to review your progress and take action on any specific guidance given.
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Registers are taken for all classes and tutors will monitor your attendance. Nonattendance will affect your achievement and progress. If your attendance is consistently low you may be at risk of being withdrawn from your course. Attendance at College may also be a criteria for receiving financial support (see page 7). If you need help with an aspect of your learning, for example note taking, report writing, revision or time management, please speak to your tutor. You may also be offered additional learning support (see page 16).
Making sure that you are on the right course
It is important that you are on the right course - one that meets your career plans and suits your abilities. Your ideas may have changed since you first contacted the College or, after the first few days, you may feel that the course is not what you expected. If so, please talk to your tutor or Student Services as soon as possible - it is important you don’t leave it too late.
Enrolment
By the time you read this handbook you should have already enrolled and received a student ID card with your unique student number. If you have not, please speak to your tutor. 15
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Helping You to Study Learning support
You may know when you start that you need help to follow your course and have already discussed this with us. If not, speak to either your tutor or the Additional Learning Support team. The College has a Disability Co-ordinator who can discuss your needs and help provide additional support. Areas that can be supported include ‌ Physical disabilities If you have a physical disability and require assistive technology to help you with your course, this can be arranged. We will talk to you about your needs and include this in your learning plan. Dyslexia Our Dyslexia Co-ordinator ensures that those who require assessment will be contacted and assessed to accommodate their needs. Visual impairment If you have a visual impairment that requires assistive technology we will accommodate this need. We have a Braille facility at the College, as well as areas for your guide dog to stretch their legs and bins for depositing their waste. Hearing impairment If you require assistive technology we will discuss your needs to accommodate this requirement. We have staff who are qualified to British Sign Language level 3.
Illness Sometimes a physical health condition will require that risk assessments are in place to safeguard your health and wellbeing. If your condition is debilitating or fragile you may also require support from our team of Learning Support Assistants. Language, literacy or numeracy skills below those required for the course Our HELP team has additional support lecturers who offer timetabled support within your course to help you to achieve and bring your abilities up to the required levels for your course. Mental health difficulties We offer discreet support within our Disabilities Services team. If you would like help in some of your lessons, we can arrange that too. Behavioural difficulties We can help you to understand your triggers, so helping you to reduce flashpoints and frustrations. Discreet mentoring can also be arranged. Dyscalculia/dysgraphia Our Learning Support Lecturers will give additional support to you if you find sequential learning has hindered you in the past. For more information Call: 01752 305798 E-mail: learningsupport@cityplym.ac.uk
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We want to help you succeed, but you will need to tell us what help you need. The College’s Accessibility Commitment sets out the support available to students with a difficulty/disability at the College. It can be found on our website, on the College’s virtual learning environment (Moodle), the student intranet, or at the Student Services help desks. DisabledGo is an award-winning disability organisation providing free detailed access information about locations and venues for disabled people across the UK and Ireland. DisabledGo Access Guides have been specially designed to answer the everyday questions of disabled people, their assistants, carers, family and friends. The aim is to use access information to empower people to enjoy their communities and make their contribution. City College Plymouth works with DisabledGo to help disabled students access our facilities. Through the DisabledGo website you can find information to help you make greater use of the College’s facilities.
We want to help you succeed
For more information Web: www.disabledgo.info
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Learning Resources services
As part of your course you will be expected to work on your own and in groups outside the classroom. There are three large study areas in the College: • Kings Road Library Call: 01752 305366 • Goschen Library Call: 01752 305074 • Goschen Study Centre Call: 01752 305082. The libraries each have a range of carefully selected resources to help with your learning. These include: • access to the internet, the student intranet and the College’s virtual learning environment (Moodle) • DVDs • books, newspapers, journals and pamphlets • electronic resources (e-books, e-journals and databases). Induction sessions can be organised for all courses. If you do not get one, please ask at the library counter and one of the staff will show you around. Inductions are also available on Moodle (see below).
Computers and your IT account
Within your first week at the College you will have your library and IT joining day session, where you will activate your IT accounts for accessing College software, your e-mail and file space for your course work. You will then be shown the student intranet and Moodle.
Moodle
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Moodle is a virtual learning environment where you can get access to software packages, online resources and course materials. It cannot replace face-to-face teaching, but is a facility to support teaching with a range of flexible online tools, as well as providing a place to upload course materials.
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Your Next Steps Careers education and guidance service
The careers education and guidance service helps you make appropriate choices now and throughout your time at the College. Our careers advisers can be contacted via the Student Services help desk. Appointments can be booked or you can use our drop-in sessions at Kings Road and Goschen. We have free resources available to help you make choices about your future: • individual guidance interviews with qualified careers advisers • careers information resources, including printed and digital publications and computerbased guidance and career choice programs • higher education prospectus library and ‘Focus on Your Future’ guidance hub (on the student intranet) • local jobs board collated from local newspapers and online job sites • group workshops and self-help programmes for: - CV writing - interview skills - job search - applying to university - personal statement writing - gap year opportunities - volunteering • individual help with applying for employment, training and further education both at the College and elsewhere.
To help you plan, your tutor will ask for your ‘intended destination’ in the spring term, and follow this up with your ‘actual destination’ at your last individual tutorial.
Leaving
The College will do all it can to help you successfully complete your course. If, however, for some reason you feel you may not be able to continue on your course, please come and talk to your tutor or a member of student services as soon as possible. We may be able to help.
In addition, the careers advisers work with your personal and subject tutors throughout your course to ensure that you are fully aware of all of the options available to you on successful completion of the course.
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Lifestyle ion to your life and Joining the College will add a new dimens erstand that trying to create new demands on your time. We und your studies, meeting juggle your personal life, together with job can be stressful. deadlines, and possibly holding down a Student Services, if you Please speak to your personal tutor or are experiencing any difficulties. Here are some tips to help you deal with these demands …
3. Time for yourself
Try to keep your sleep routine as regular as possible.
Try to leave enough time for some fun. Enjoy the College’s facilities - get involved with the College activities or the Students’ Union, or just take some time out in the Student Centres (see pages 10-13).
2. Take a break
4. Be realistic
1. Get plenty of sleep
When organising private study, make sure you take regular breaks. This will help you concentrate for longer, so you will learn more.
Don’t try to cram too much in or leave everything to the last minute. If you overdo it you won’t take in the facts you’re learning.
5. Eat well Make sure your diet includes plenty of fruit and veg. Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine.
6. Exercise Exercise is a great stress buster - it will help you feel more relaxed. Speak to the Student Liaison team who arrange a wide-range of activities (see page 10).
7. Be positive Staying positive will put you in a good mood and help you study better.
8. Chill out If you are feeling as if everything is getting on top of you, take some time out - breathe deeply, tell yourself you are doing well, and above all, stand proud and smile! And if that doesn’t work, talk to your tutor or the Student Liaison team.
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College Charter The College Charter tells you: • what you can expect from the College • what you can do to help yourself make the most of your time at the College • what the College expects from you.
The College wants you to succeed and will do all it can to help you. By coming to City College Plymouth you are able to study: • a wide range of academic and vocational courses • in a range of different modes, for example full or part-time, day or evening • from the age of 16 (or 14 through a partnership with your school).
We are committed to treating everyone fairly and with respect. We encourage and support applications from all sections of society and promote the benefits of living in a diverse community. We seek to support your learning and remove any unfair barriers to your study and success. We are committed to providing support to all students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities. If you think this applies to you: • ask for a copy of our Accessibility Commitment, and • tell us how you think we can help you. Each year we aim to further improve: • the quality of teaching and learning • student achievement and success • students’ attendance • students’ experience of learning • students’ enjoyment of College • student satisfaction • staff qualifications and experience • accommodation and facilities. The College libraries hold copies of all College reports, statistics and policies, many of which can also be found on the College website (www.cityplym.ac.uk).
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Student Charter To help you succeed, we seek to:
• give you current, clear and concise information about our courses before you enrol • help you choose the course that is most suitable for you • give you information on the qualifications you can get and the opportunities to which they lead • through theworkspace we will build in employability skills into your course • ensure you understand the standards you need to reach to be successful • help you settle into your course and the College, and tell you what you need to know to be a successful student • explain how much work you will need to do, and when and where to attend classes and other activities • before you do your first assignment, give you accurate information about the way you will be taught and the topics to be covered • tell you when, where and how you will be assessed • by the end of the first week make sure you have a personal tutor.
During your course we aim to:
• provide qualified and experienced staff • assess you fairly and regularly • provide encouragement and feedback on your progress • give advice on how you can improve • we will build employability and life skills into your course, to ensure you have the best chances of progressing to employment and/or further study • help you identify any learning support needs you may have and ensure, where practicable, we provide additional support to help you succeed
• ensure your studies are not adversely affected by staff absence • provide suitable accommodation and resources for you to study • offer you student support services if you need them, such as careers guidance, student funding advice and counselling • offer you recreational and leisure activities so you can enjoy College and meet other students • involve you in the College’s decision making through a variety of student feedback channels (student representatives, student surveys and focus groups, the Students’ Union etc) • keep your parents/carers informed of your progress if you are under 18 at enrolment, and seek your permission to do so if you are over 18 at enrolment.
To help you succeed, you agree to:
• take an active part in pre-enrolment and induction activities, so that you can be sure the course is the right one for you • take responsibility for organising your own learning • use your time to learn to the best of your ability • attend your classes and any other activities that form part of your agreed course regularly and on time • ask for help if you need it • sign all your work as your own before handing it in on time • make full use of the resources available including the libraries, computer facilities, employability centre, learning support services and Student Services • regularly check your College e-mail address • co-operate with all members of staff and other students
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- In Partnership with You • pay any fees and charges promptly or, if you have difficulties, discuss them with the Student Funding team • abide by all College rules and regulations, including anti-bullying and no smoking (see pages 27 and 28).
Students and staff are expected to:
• behave in a polite, courteous and friendly manner • treat everyone fairly and with respect • take responsibility for their own options • observe all health and safety regulations and safeguarding guidelines to ensure a safe learning environment • care for the physical environment of the College • abide by the College’s anti-bullying and no smoking policies.
We want to get it right - we want you to succeed!
If you have any worries about your studies, ask for help as soon as you can. You can talk to your personal tutor, subject lecturer, programme area manager, course rep, Reception, mediator, a member of staff from Student Services or Student Liaison, or the Students’ Union.
Telling us what you think
Please tell us if things are going well, and also if you think we could make some changes. We also want you to tell us if you are not satisfied with any aspect of life at the College.
There are various ways of doing this: • • • •
talk to the people listed above tell your course reps complete the student surveys make a formal complaint using the Talkback form.
If we have failed to live up to a Charter promise, we want to know so that we can sort it out.
Talkback for formal written complaints If you wish to complain formally, please complete a Talkback form. These are available on the College website, student intranet, Moodle or from Reception. You can return it to Reception or via e-mail to complaints@ cityplym.ac.uk.
Your complaint will be dealt with fairly, sensitively and in confidence. We will acknowledge your complaint within five working days and send you a response within ten working days. Some complaints, especially if they are complex, may take longer. If this is the case then we will let you know, keeping you informed of progress. If you are not satisfied with the College’s response, the Talkback Coordinator will advise you on what to do next. You have the right to expect a good service from the College. Please give us your views on how we can improve.
Parents’ and carers’ charter - our commitment
We aim to ensure that parents and carers receive full information about the course, College support and student progress for fulltime students under the age of 18 at enrolment, and encourage your involvement. In return we ask that you make appointments to see College staff, particularly if you have concerns, so that all the relevant information can be gathered beforehand. If a student is over 18 at enrolment, the College needs their permission to discuss them with you.
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Your Responsibilities as a Student This part of the handbook is an essential part of being a City College Plymouth student. It contains a summary of the rules and regulations you need to be aware of. A copy of the College’s terms and conditions and its policies and procedures are available on the website, student intranet or from the Reception desks at Kings Road and Goschen. In a large organisation with lots of people there are rules and regulations to abide by and policies, systems and procedures to follow. Here are the main ones and the rules and regulations you agreed to when you enrolled as a student at City College Plymouth.
Health, safety and welfare
We have a Health, Safety and Welfare Policy which commits us all to excellence in health and safety. Copies are available from the Health and Safety team - telephone 01752 305370. You will be given further safety instructions and information related to work in these areas by your tutors and it is important for your safety and the safety of others that you listen carefully to this information and follow the instructions given.
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Emergency information If you see a fire, sound the alarm! When a fire alarm sounds (continuous loud siren) you must: • leave the building by following the marked evacuation exit route • make your way to the designated assembly point • NOT use lifts • NOT stop to collect personal belongings • NOT re-enter the building until instructed by a member of staff • notify the fire officer or senior member of staff of anyone located in a refuge area. If there is a nuclear emergency, the Dockyard siren will sound the emergency signal (a rising and falling wailing note) for one minute OR there will be loud hailer broadcasts throughout the buildings OR a combination of both. Tests of the emergency signal by the Dockyard are made every Monday at 11.30am. When you hear the emergency warning you must: • remain in your teaching area • close windows • turn off ovens, burners and any source of flame • await the distribution of potassium iodide tablets by nominated staff • NOT leave the building • NOT use the telephones • NOT OPEN THE FIRE DOORS • wait for further instructions within your teaching area.
If you see a fire, sound the alarm!
First aid
First aid boxes are provided in all faculty offices, libraries, laboratories and workshops. All injuries must be reported to the member of staff in charge and an accident form must be completed. First aiders can be identified by their green lanyard. If you have a medical condition such as epilepsy, diabetes or a disability which might require emergency treatment, you need to let your tutor know.
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Health and safety cause damage you may be charged for its repair. • When using a computer in the IT suites you should take a short rest break for every 3040 minutes typing, internet use, etc. Any act of vandalism which intentionally • Be aware of any risks associated with the damages or destroys anything provided in activity you are undertaking and use the the interests of health, safety or welfare is an control measures to protect yourself right offence under the Health and Safety at Work others. and Act 1974 and may attract a criminal penalty • You must comply with the safety regulations as well as being in scope to the Disciplinary and instructions in workshops and Procedure. For reasons of health and safety, ries. Protective clothing must laborato the use of skateboards, roller blades, in those areas where safety and worn be footballs and bicycles are not permitted ns are in force and regulatio hygiene inside the College buildings. disciplinary action will be taken if you infringe the statutory provisions. Your health and safety responsibilities ensure to bility responsi ’s • It is everyone • When in any laboratory or workshop, only safety and health others and their own carry out the task(s) set by your lecturer or actions their to due risk at put is not unplanned or unauthorised work could lead s. omission to a serious accident. • The College is a smokefree organisation • When using any fixed or portable equipment you are not permitted to smoke on College always follow the instructions of your premises except in designated smoking lecturer - do not invent your own work areas. methods as this could cause a serious on accident. • Drinking alcohol or taking illegal drugs the College grounds, or returning to the • Know the location of the emergency stop College after drinking alcohol or taking buttons in a workshop or laboratory. illegal drugs, is against College rules and • Wash your hands after handling any will lead to disciplinary action. chemicals, lubricants, oils, greases, etc • Do not leave your bag in front of doors, (even if you have worn gloves) to prevent near staircases or any other place where it skin diseases like dermatitis. may cause an accident. • Report all accidents, breakages or defects • When in classrooms, laboratories, IT suites to your lecturer or tutor immediately. or workshops the consumption of food • Drive safely in the car park areas, adhering and drink (other than bottled water) is to the site speed limit of ten mph. prohibited. • Do not interfere with any equipment • Do not tamper or misuse any equipment, provided for safety reasons, ie fire electric sockets or cables in any classroom, hers, safety signs, guards, etc. extinguis laboratory, IT suite or workshop - if you Students released by their employers to come to the College are ‘at work’ within the meaning of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and therefore, Section 7 of the Act applies.
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Policies We have a number of College policies but there are several that we would particularly like to draw to your attention. These will also be covered during your induction. Most are available on the website and student intranet, or can be requested via Reception. There is also reference to them in the College’s Terms and Conditions.
Data protection
Please note that the College will process personal information about students for various administrative, financial and academic purposes. The College manages its data processing in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998. Further information is contained within the College’s Term and Conditions, website, student intranet or from the Legal and Risk Officer telephone 01752 305735. You have the responsibility to ensure that the information you provide to the College about yourself is accurate and kept up-to-date. Please ensure that any changes in your circumstances (ie change of name, address, telephone number) are reported to the appropriate person, usually your course tutor. There will be occasions when, as a student, you will be processing personal information as a part of your studies. You have a responsibility to ensure that the personal information is accurate, fair and managed with respect to the privacy of others. Wherever possible, ensure that information is anonymous. If you do need to use people’s personal information as part of your studies then ensure that you have their consent to do so. Tell them why you are using it and who may have sight of it. The College is
not responsible if you are processing personal information for anything other than your educational studies.
Parental contact
If you are aged under 18 at the point of enrolment, the College will provide a designated parental contact with information concerning your attendance, behaviour, progress and achievement throughout the academic year. You will have been asked to provide details of the designated parental contact on your Learning Agreement Form. You must inform the College if there is any change in this designated contact. Should you have any concerns about the College maintaining parental contact you must speak with your personal tutor.
Computing and digital equipment
The Computing and Digital Equipment Acceptable Use Policy sets out the terms of acceptable use of ICT in the College so that students use College ICT facilities safely, responsibly, legally and with due regard for others.
Discipline and conduct
In accordance with Article 15 of the Articles of Government, the College has laid down a procedure to be followed in the event of misconduct by students which requires formal disciplinary action. Copies of the disciplinary procedure are available from Student Services - telephone 01752 305803. These regulations should be read in conjunction with the student disciplinary procedure.
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Misconduct The following are examples of misconduct which may result in disciplinary action being taken against students. • Any breach of any of the students’ obligations (including any breach of health and safety or other regulations of the College, in particular those relating to behaviour, submission of work and attendance). • Any failure to follow the reasonable instructions of a member of staff. • Any failure to comply with a reasonable request of a member of College staff to wear or produce a student identity card. • Any smoking in non-smoking areas. • Any cheating, plagiarism* or copying of the work of other students. • Any unduly noisy or any unruly behaviour or the use of foul or abusive language. • Disrupting any class or any other College activity, whether or not involving staff or other students. • Deliberately or by gross negligence causing damage to any College buildings, equipment, books or furnishings or any property of others. • Misuse of College ICT equipment and facilities. • Any unauthorised interference with software or data belonging to or used by the College, another student or a member of staff. • Any theft of property or any other dishonest acts. • Any drunkenness on College premises or on any activity associated with the College or the use, possession or supply of any illegal drug. • Any bullying, intimidation, taunting, verbal abuse or the use of any violence or threat of violence towards any person. • Any behaviour that is offensive to any of the protective characteristics of age, disability, gender, gender identity, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion and belief or sexual orientation. • Any behaviour which could bring the College into disrepute. • Any illegal act which may have an adverse effect on the work of the College or on other students. • Alcohol must not be brought onto or consumed on College premises (except when using Cité Restaurant). Students should not be present on College premises whilst under the influence of alcohol. Students involved in organised College activities, including residentials, are required to observe the same standards of conduct. • The College will regard possession or use of illegal substances by students on our premises as Gross Misconduct: - the College will inform the Police if students are found in possession of illegal substances
- if it is considered that the College’s reputation has been adversely affected by a student’s conduct regarding alcohol/other drug use disciplinary action will be taken - notwithstanding the above the College will balance its responses to student gross misconduct involving illegal substances with the appropriate use of a confidential counselling service. Cars and Cycles • Any person bringing a motor vehicle onto College premises is required to observe the signed traffic directions and speed restrictions. Unnecessary movement of vehicles around College sites is prohibited and, in all cases, vehicles must be operated with the minimum of noise and inconvenience. • Students must not park in prohibited areas marked by signs or yellow lines. • The College reserves the right to move vehicles causing an obstruction or a safety hazard or left in a prohibited area. • The College accepts no liability for loss or damage to or theft from vehicles on College premises. Please be aware that vehicles are left at the driver’s own risk. • Students are required to observe ‘residents only’ parking schemes in areas adjacent to the College sites. • For safety reasons, bicycles must not be brought into any part of the College buildings. There are bicycle lockers at various sites. Cyclists use this facility at their own risk. Freedom of Speech • In order to fulfil the responsibility placed upon them by Section 43 of the Education (No. 2) Act 1986, the College has adopted a Code of Practice aimed at securing freedom of speech within the law for members, students, and employees of the College and for visiting speakers. • Paragraph 2 of the Code includes the following provisions: “Conduct of members, students and employees and other users of the College.” “2.1 Members, students, staff and employees of the College and other users of the College premises shall not engage in conduct which prevents, obstructs or disturbs the holding of orderly conduct of any meeting or any other lawful activity on College premises.” “2.2 Members, students, staff and employees of the College and other users of the College premises shall not deny or attempt to deny another person or group of persons’ lawful use of the College premises on the grounds of that other person’s or group of persons’ views or beliefs.” • Copies of the full Code are available from the Clerk to the Corporation, telephone 01752 305056. * See the student intranet for full details on plagiarism.
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Sources of Help Ask your tutor to help you complete this page for your course Course Title Tutor’s Name Tel: 01752 Tutor’s E-mail
@cityplym.ac.uk
(Tutor’s initial and surname - for example: fbloggs@cityplym.ac.uk)
Head of Faculty Tel: 01752 Faculty Administrator Tel: 01752 Kings Road Reception Tel: 01752 305300
Goschen Reception Tel: 01752 305282
Learning Support Tel: 01752 305885
Chaplaincy Tel: 01752 305301
Examinations Tel: 01752 305869
Mediation Services Tel: 01752 305803
Student Funding Tel: 01752 305381/305110 E-mail: studentfunding@cityplym.ac.uk
Comments and Complaints Tel: 01752 305119
Kings Road Student Centre Tel: 01752 305848 E-mail: studentliaison@cityplym.ac.uk
Goschen Student Centre Tel: 01752 305093
Student Services Contact for help with funding, counselling support, careers information or guidance. Kings Road Help Desk Tel: 01752 305803 E-mail: studentservices@cityplym.ac.uk
Goschen Help Desk Tel: 01752 305062
Designated Safeguarding and Anti-bullying Team Tel: 01752 305296 E-mail: safeguarding@cityplym.ac.uk
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USEFUL CONTACTS General Advice Plymouth Citizens Advice Bureau
Family 08448 269717
Accommodation Advice and Support
Plymouth Family Support Services
01752 255106
Gay and Lesbian
Plymouth City Council
01752 668000
Plymouth Foyer
0300 1238080
Shekinah Mission
01752 203480
SHIP Hostel
01752 306290
Family and Friends of Lesbian and Gay Network (FFLAG)
01392 279546
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans Community Helpline
0800 612 3010
Health and Sexual Health
Aids/HIV National Aids Helpline
0800 012322
Alcohol and Drugs Hamoaze House
01752 566100
The Harbour Centre
01752 434343
Working Links
01752 672007
Careers Service Careers South West Ltd
01752 207700
Next Step (Adults)
0800 100 900
The Eddystone Trust
01752 257077
Genito Urinary Medicine
0845 166 8189
MIND
01752 254004
Help for Young People The Zone
01752 206626
Plymouth YMCA
01752 201918
Leaving Care
01752 213231
Muslim Youth Helpline
0800 808 2008
Money
Child Abuse
Credit Union
01752 201329
NSPCC Helpline
Debt Line
0800 781 2251
Money Advice Centre
01752 208125
0808 800 5000
Childline
0800 1111
Rape and Sexual Abuse
Crime Police
08705 777 444
01752 221666
Disability Disability Information Centre
0845 122 1331
Religious Cultural Associations
Crisis Samaritans
Rape and Sexual Abuse Helpline
Chinese Cultural Association
01752 266866
Bangladesh Association
01752 252918
0845 155 1005
Discrimination Plymouth & District Racial Equality 01752 224555 Police Diversity Manager
0845 277 7444
Support Against Racist Incidents (SARI)
01179 420060
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