Student development

NEwvic
student Guide
2014/15
www.newvic.ac.uk
Contents
Introduction to student services ................................................................. 07
College inductions ............................................................................................ 09
Student development
Sixth form Baccalaureate (SFBac) ................................................. 11
Nrich – getting involved at NewVIc ............................................ 12
Sports Academy .................................................................................. 13
Leadership programme .................................................................. 15
Health Advocacy ................................................................................ 16
Enterprise .............................................................................................. 16
Understanding our world ............................................................... 17
Language power ............................................................................... 17
Our community ................................................................................... 17
International ........................................................................................ 17
Creative arts ......................................................................................... 18
Newham Academy of Music ........................................................... 19
Student ambassadors ....................................................................... 20
Student voice ....................................................................................... 22
Student Union ..................................................................................... 23
Student representation .................................................................... 23
Work experience ................................................................................. 24
Becoming a skilled learner .............................................................. 25
General Information
Clothing ................................................................................................. 45
Multi-faith room ................................................................................. 45
Parking ................................................................................................... 45
Lost property ....................................................................................... 45
Smoking ................................................................................................ 45
The canteen ......................................................................................... 46
Mobile phones .................................................................................... 47
Inside the college ............................................................................... 47
Outside the college ........................................................................... 48
Identity cards ....................................................................................... 48
Use of college computers ............................................................... 49
Attendance and punctuality ......................................................................... 51
Student learning contract .............................................................................. 53
Code of conduct ................................................................................................. 55
Health and safety................................................................................................ 57
Comments, compliments and complaints ............................................... 59
Useful contacts .................................................................................................... 61
Who’s who – student services team ........................................................... 64
Supporting students
02
Tutors ............................................................................................ 27
Academic mentors ............................................................................. 27
Academic skills and progression .................................................. 27
Progress reviews ................................................................................. 28
Student finance ................................................................................... 29
Counselling service ........................................................................... 30
Careers advice ..................................................................................... 32
Planning for your future .................................................................. 34
Learning Resource Centre (LRC) ................................................... 35
iVIc and Mahara .................................................................................. 36
Skills Centre .......................................................................................... 37
Special examination arrangements ............................................. 39
Equality of opportunity .................................................................... 41
03
What we stand for
Welcome to NewVIc
Our mission:
To create a successful
learning community
Our values
We believe in:
Excellence and achievement; setting high standards and
high expectations
Respect for everyone;
valuing diversity and
promoting equality
Education for everyone; attracting and including
new learners
Education of the whole person;
for personal and
social development
NewVIc is committed to equality
of opportunity and expects every
member of the college community
to respect others. This means that we
do not tolerate any form of abusive,
aggressive or threatening language or
behaviour, any form of discrimination
or harassment on grounds of gender,
gender identity, age, class, race,
disability, religion, sexual orientation,
pregnancy or previous level of
educational achievement.
Please note: you can obtain a copy
of the college’s equal opportunities
policy, anti-bullying policy and the
college charter online from iVIc; the
college’s virtual learning environment.
I am delighted to welcome you to
NewVIc. You are joining a successful
learning community with some of the
best facilities in the country. We will
provide you with excellent teaching,
tutoring, advice and support and will
encourage you to make the most of
the many exciting activities we offer.
NewVIc has built up an excellent
reputation over the last twenty-one
years: our success rates are high,
over 700 of our students progress to
university each year and we are the
most improved sixth form college
in London. This is entirely due to the
commitment and hard work of many
thousands of students, like you, over
the years. We have high expectations
of everyone and we aim to be
excellent in everything we do.
So, as you begin the new academic
year; be proud of all that you
have achieved so far and make
sure you take advantage of all the
opportunities available to you at
NewVIc, to become the best you
can be.
Accountability;
responding and contributing
to our communities
Honesty, openness, trust
and sensitivity;
Eddie Playfair
Principal
in everything we do
04
05
Introduction to student services
We want all of our students to enjoy
their time at NewVIc and achieve
their goals. NewVIc’s comprehensive
range of student services is designed
to meet the widely different needs
of our students and to help
everyone succeed.
Many initial queries can be addressed
by your tutor, who can offer guidance
on course-related issues and pastoral
care, or point you in the right
direction for additional support.
Student safety is a top priority at
NewVIc, and our youth safety team
ensures the college is a safe and
secure learning environment for all.
They are available on site at all times
and ensure that all students follow
the code of conduct. Youth safety
officers are supported in this by the
security team, who patrol both on
and off campus.
As well as the areas of specific
support highlighted in this guide,
NewVIc provides many opportunities
for students to enhance their
college experience, meet new
friends and gain valuable life skills.
You will find there is something for
everyone to get involved in from
sport, performing arts and media, to
mentoring, leadership, volunteering
and fundraising. Further information
will be given at the Freshers’ Fair and
is also available on iVIc, the college’s
virtual learning environment.
This guide outlines the main areas of
support available, how students can
benefit and where to access help. So
please do read through the contents
and familiarise yourself with the
wide range of support and facilities
available to you and ask any member
of staff if you need help or advice.
Awarded for student services support
07
College inductions
During induction you will meet
your teachers and fellow students.
You will be given information about
the structure and content of your
course, your timetable, the location
of your classes, information about
coursework and examinations,
requirements for work experience
and field trips, the costs involved and
the facilities that are available to you.
Induction is in four parts:
1. Summer induction
During the summer induction, you will meet students and staff and start your course.
2. Initial assessment
You will complete a short assessment called ‘The Profiler’ which will help us to see whether you need any support with English, maths or dyslexia.
Confirmation of programme
In the first few weeks of the autumn
term, you and your tutor will
confirm your programme of study.
In exceptional cases, after discussion
and agreement with you, your tutor
and parent/guardian, it may be
decided that a change should be
made to your programme of study.
This will only be done with the
agreement of your tutor and
a manager.
Academic skills and progress review
A weekly academic skills session
is a core part of your programme,
essential to ensuring that you achieve
your full potential and meet the
demands of a higher level of study.
You will have at least one termly
individual review with your tutor
and set your own targets on iVIc, the
college virtual learning environment.
3. Autumn induction
This will provide you with all you need to know about being a student at NewVIc. It takes place during your first week at college.
4. Introduction to your learning programme
This will be the main focus in the first weeks. Your academic tutor
and teachers will review your programme with you, to ensure it is the most appropriate for you.
09
Student development
Sixth Form Baccalaureate (SFBac)
This award, run with a number
of other sixth form colleges,
values students’ achievement and
development both in and out of
the classroom. At NewVIc, you will
have the opportunity to take part
in a full programme of subjects,
skills development and enrichment
activities. The nationally recognised
Sixth Form Bac values students’
wider achievements and recognises
the skills, values and qualities you
develop by being involved in
these activities, which help you to
be a successful learner, citizen
and employee.
Employers and universities look for
people who are creative, can think for
themselves and work well with others.
At NewVIc, all students have the
opportunity to develop the skills and
knowledge needed to succeed whilst
contributing positively to society.
This award prepares students to make
a real difference in the world as an
informed and active citizen. Focusing
on the subjects you are studying,
your skills and the enrichment
activities you take part in, this award
will challenge you as an individual.
Achieving the SFBac will help you
to stand out and give you strong
evidence to support your application
to university or employment.
Achievement awards
Each year a number of students are
chosen by the college to receive
awards in recognition of their
achievements both in and out of the
classroom. The awards are sponsored
by local universities and employers
including London City Airport,
Barclays Bank Plc, Canary Wharf Group
Plc, the University of East London and
Queen Mary, University of London.
SFBac
SUBJECTS
SKILLS
VALUES
BREADTH
11
Nrich – getting involved at NewVIc
NewVIc is not just about studying
– get involved in the wider
college experience
• sports academy
•leadership
•enterprise
• health awareness
• language power
• understanding our world
• our community
• creative arts
We run activities on a daily basis
during lunchtimes, after college and
on Wednesday afternoons.
12
Our mission:
“
Our unique programme covers a
number of areas including:
“
We aim to enhance the quality and level of sporting
achievement for all individuals and teams, and to encourage
and support students wanting to play, coach, lead and
officiate sport from recreational to elite level.
At NewVIc we not only support and
invest in your academic success, we
also place a high value on your all
round development.
The Nrich programme is an important
part of your college experience and
provides exciting, high quality and
wide-ranging student development
and sports activities. These activities
help you to broaden your experience,
encourage your interests and
passions, support your well-being
and offer opportunities for skills
development, whilst having fun.
Sports Academy
We also offer opportunities for
students to take on leadership roles
and develop leadership attributes such
as clear values and high standards,
effective communication, teamwork
and managing change.
The activities are open to any student
and can complement your studies, or
provide a platform to try something
new. Although participation is
voluntary, we expect every student to
commit to at least one activity.
Your participation will count towards
your Sixth Form Bac (SFBac) certificate.
Find out more
about getting involved in
enrichment activities at
college, speak to the student
development team in room B221
and come along to the Freshers’
Fair at the beginning of each year.
The NewVIc Sports Academy is open
to all students keen to keep fit, try
new sports or compete at team level.
For the more serious players, there are
opportunities to trial for selection into
one of our elite sports academies.
Participation for all
The multi-gym, floodlit multi-use
games area (MUGA) and indoor sports
hall are open to all students to access.
Students can also borrow equipment
to use during their free periods.
Our sport are open to all students
during lunchtime and after college
include:
•archery
•athletics
•badminton
•basketball
•cricket
• disability sports
•football
•netball
• non-contact boxing
•rowing
•rugby
•swimming
• table tennis
• tennis •trampolining
• non-contact boxing
•rowing
•rugby
•swimming
• table tennis
• tennis •trampolining
Competitive opportunities
The college competes in British
Colleges Sport (BCS) and South of
England Student Sports Association
(SESSA) leagues and cups on
Wednesday afternoons, during
enrichment time in the following
sports:
• athletics
• badminton
• cheerleading
• men’s and women’s basketball • cricket
• men’s and women’s football
• ability counts football
• netball • rugby
• table tennis • trampolining
13
Elite Academies
The NewVIc Sports Academy runs
the following three intensive elite
programmes:
NewVIc Sports Leadership Academy
The Sports Leadership Academy
provides high quality training and
development for students who are
committed to sports volunteering
or coaching and intend to pursue a
career in sport.
NewVIc Cricket Academy
NewVIc offers talented 16-19 year
olds the opportunity to play elite
level college cricket, competing
against the best in Essex, London and
the country through the Essex and
London Schools Cricket Cups and
British College Sport (BCS) indoor and
outdoor leagues.
20 students are selected each year
to receive a minimum of 10 hours
per week of elite coaching from
our performance and development
cricket coach.
The Cricket Academy has strong links
with several cricket clubs and players
are referred for county trials to Essex,
Middlesex and Surrey, if deemed
strong enough. A number of NewVIc
players have progressed to university
on cricket scholarship schemes.
The Academy is nationally accredited
by Sports Leaders UK (SLUK).
Sports Leadership Academy members
have the opportunity to attend a
wide range of courses including
safeguarding, first aid, inclusive
coaching, Sports Leaders UK level 2
and a National Governing Body level
1 and 2 coaching qualifications to the
value of approximately £400.
NewVIc Basketball Academy
NewVIc offers talented 16-19 year
olds the opportunity to play elite
level college basketball, competing
against the best in London and the UK
through affiliation to British College
Sport (BCS).
The Basketball Academy selects 16
players each year, who have the
potential to achieve excellence in
basketball with ambitions of pursuing
a sporting career. The academy
offers a minimum of 10 hours of elite
coaching per week.
As a key partner, the University of
East London (UEL) provides access
to scholarship applications for elite
players wishing to progress to higher
education.
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Participants also volunteer in a range
of sporting clubs and environments
which has often led to students
gaining work at school holiday
programmes and even full or parttime employment. NewVIc sports
leaders are also eligible for a £225
NewVIc Leadership Bursary each year.
Support for gifted and talented
athletes
Students who are gifted and talented
in sports and not accepted into an
elite academy are often given support
on an individual basis dependent
upon their need. This could include
help with the costs of specific
equipment required to compete
at elite level, or transport costs to
national level competitions..
Leadership
programme
We want students to develop
leadership qualities during their
time at the college. Through a
range of opportunities, students
are encouraged to help shape what
happens at the college, develop
clear values, high standards, as well
as skills in effective communication,
teamwork and managing change. At
NewVIc you can:
• Become a student ambassador representing the college: choose to specialise in events, sports, school liaison, research or
community ambassador work.
• Become a student representative on our Student Council where students and staff come together to talk and plan. Student Council Summits
focus on interaction and feedback and are a great opportunity to represent and share the ideas of your tutor group.
• Stand for election as a Student Union executive. As a Student Union executive you will represent the interests of students at NewVIc. The Student Union help to promote students’ rights and welfare,
organise events and campaigns and are a channel of communication between students and college management.
15
• Join our leadership programme and develop your critical thinking, leadership and community
organising skills. Through this
programme, you will learn about serving the community by volunteering within the college,
with local organisations or through
organising community campaigns. This may include helping primary school pupils with reading,
mentoring your fellow students at college or in secondary schools, joining community initiatives, such as community sports coaching or taking part in community
organising training.
Understanding
our world
Health advocacy
Become a health advocate and help
to spread the message about healthy
living. You can, for example, focus on
mental health and wellbeing, sexual
health and relationships or helping
others to quit smoking. You will
receive training and then work as a
team on projects to promote health
and raise awareness. An exciting
development is our work with UCL
Partners, who will be recruiting and
supporting up to 10 students to
become health research ambassadors
as part of a new bursary programme.
Enterprise
2014 NewVIc leadership bursary
NewVIc is offering up to 50 Sports
and Community Leadership bursaries
of up to £225 each year (maximum
over two years) to students on
full-time courses in 2014/15. To
qualify for these bursaries, students
must demonstrate the potential
for outstanding leadership and
achievement. Find out more on
our website,
www.newvic.ac.uk.
16
Develop your enterprise potential
- find out how you can develop
skills in business enterprise,
regeneration, managing money
and fundraising. Learn the value of
teamwork and communication in
running an effective social enterprise.
Opportunities include helping to
manage a community youth market,
running the NewVIc shop or your own
small business at East End markets, or
working as part of the Graphic
Design Company.
Take part in the debate club, model
United Nations, women’s group,
current affairs group or the Palestine
awareness group to deepen your
understanding of the big issues
and prepare you for your future as a
global citizen. These activities build
on your powers of enquiry, analysis
and empathy with our world. You will
be encouraged to not only have your
say about the important issues that
concern young people today, but
also to take an active role in making
positive change.
Our community
Take up opportunities for
volunteering within the community
and join in events where students
celebrate diversity and champion
equality. Get involved in our schools
reading programme, teach IT skills to
some of our neighbours, get involved
in sustainability projects or take part
in our anti-bullying week.
Language power
Whatever subjects you are studying,
you can get more confident with
words. Take part in events and
competitions, writing poetry, stories,
public speaking or learn a new
language. Join the Carbolic team
to write for this high-profile youth
magazine; share ideas about the
books you enjoy in the reading group;
create and perform emotive pieces
of work in the form of spoken word,
rapping and poetry in Brave New
Words or cypher poetry, or learn
French, Spanish or Latin.
International
Make use of our strong international
links - last year students from across
a range of courses travelled abroad.
NewVIc’s success reaches far beyond
London with links around the world
including Germany, France, New York
and China. We also offer opportunities
for trekking and volunteering
expeditions in South America, Africa
and Asia.
17
Creative arts
Newham Academy of Music
All students have the opportunity to
get involved in creative arts activities
and as a college we aim to raise
engagement of students in cultural
and creative activities. That is why
we place a high value on our cultural
programme and our partnership work
with Stratford Circus.
Newham Academy of Music
is based at the college and
is supported through the
government’s national plan
for music.
It is one of 122 music hub leaders
across the UK and the music hub
leader for Newham. NewVIc students
are offered the opportunity for free
or subsidised instrumental tuition
through the Music Advancement
Programme (MAP). This programme,
in partnership with Newham
Academy of Music ensembles, offers
lessons with professional musicians
and tutors at NewVIc.
Creative arts at NewVIc encompass
visual arts, music, dance, poetry,
film making, photography, media
and drama. Our activities will
develop your creative, technical and
performance skills and will allow
you to express yourself. Many of
our creative arts programmes link to
industry professionals and provide
work-based learning and skills.
Students get many opportunities to
be involved in productions either
as a performer or off-stage in event
management, marketing, designing,
box office, stage management and
other roles. Students are also able
to perform in the college, at local
borough and schools events, and
venues such as Stratford Circus.
18
Depending on the instrument, classes
will usually be in small group sessions.
Students will learn repertoire, a
variety of stylistic genres and the
skills needed for successful
performance with others.
Students on music-related courses
will also have the opportunity to
develop their music leadership
skills, which can lead to further
qualifications and progression to
music degrees.
Activities currently on offer include:
• songwriting and recording
• a wide range of urban, contemporary and specialist
dance groups
• bands and ensembles including Modern Fusion Orchestra and Solid Harmony Choir
• digital film and digital photography
• Recycled Fashion
• NewVIc Theatre Company
• graphic design •DJing
• ensembles, instrumental lessons and music projects run by the Newham Music Hub
19
Student ambassadors
Become an ambassador for the college
The college has a very popular
student ambassador scheme which
you can get involved in.
What does an ambassador do?
Ambassadors represent NewVIc
students at college events; assist with
work in the local community, local
schools and get involved in research
work. There are six main types of
ambassadors and you can choose
your preferred role when applying.
Event ambassador - working with
the marketing team at internal and
external college events, such as the
college open days, school interviews
and awards evenings. You will provide
a positive image when welcoming
and greeting visitors to the college
and support the smooth running
of events.
20
E-ambassadors - developing the
way technology is used for teaching
and learning in the college; liaising
between, and mentoring, students
and teachers using technology;
assessing fellow students’ needs and
interests, their digital literacy and
e-safety skills; evaluating existing
resources and creating new ones.
Community ambassador supporting NewVIc and the local
community by acting as a role model
for your peers and prospective
students and volunteering within
college and the wider Newham
community. Opportunities include
supporting the student development
team and Student Union with a
range of college and external
events, volunteering as a peer mentor
or health advocate and representing,
supporting and promoting student
development work internally
and externally.
Research ambassador - help the
college achieve specific aims and
objectives by taking part and
conducting research into various
topics. This could involve working
with the Student Union to survey
students’ needs or helping the
marketing department develop
new social networking tools and
promotional campaigns.
School liaison ambassador working with the advice and
recruitment team and school liaison
officer to support our work with
schools across the borough and
beyond. This could involve speaking
at assemblies, helping with school
visits to NewVIc and offering advice
to prospective students.
Sport ambassador - working with
the NewVIc Sports Academy team
to help engage students in the full
programme of sport and physical
activity available at NewVIc. This will
involve recruiting your peers into
sports activities, and helping out at
college events such as open days, the
Nrich spring fair and ‘Get Up and Get
Active Week’.
For more formal sports coaching
and leadership opportunities
(including gaining valuable coaching
qualifications), please see page 15 for
the information on the NewVIc Sports
Leadership Academy.
Why get involved?
There are many reasons to get
involved! Becoming an ambassador
shows universities and employers that
you are keen and prepared to give up
your own time to volunteer. You get
to develop and use lots of skills, such
as communication and teamwork
which look impressive on application
forms for jobs and further study.
You also get to be involved in lots of
exciting events, meet external visitors
and broaden your circle of friends.
The hours undertaken will also count
towards achieving the Sixth Form
Bac (SFBac).
Who can sign up?
The role of student ambassador is
open to everyone, as long as you
are reliable, punctual, on track with
your course and have above
95% attendance.
How can I become an ambassador?
There will be a student ambassador
stand at the Freshers’ Fair in
September where you can sign up.
This will be followed by a meeting to
explain the different roles.
You will then need to complete an
application form on iVIc, detailing
your skills and experience and
explaining why you would like to
become an ambassador. Applicants
are then interviewed by NewVIc staff.
Selection of ambassadors will be
based on this form and interview, so
think about your responses carefully!
21
Student voice
Student Union (SU)
NewVIc is proud to have a very
active and engaging Student Union
(SU), and every student enrolled at
college is automatically a member
of the SU. The SU provides a yearlong programme of innovative
and exciting events, activities and
opportunities that will further
enhance your college experience.
The SU is managed by the SU
executive, who are voted in
annually by NewVIc students,
and are supported by the student
development team. As an SU
member you are entitled to:
• join in the social activities organised
• stand for election to become an SU executive officer
• apply for an NUS Extra Card for discounts in shops, online stores (such as Amazon and ASOS), driving lessons, cinemas and many other attractions across the whole country
• play an active part in welfare campaigns and learner voice activities.
Your views are important. At NewVIc,
students have many opportunities
to give suggestions about how the
college could improve further.
22
Every student is welcome to give
their ideas, but there are some key
students who make sure the student
voice is heard.
Student Union executive
This is a group made up of students
keen to ensure students are listened
to. Positions include president,
activities officer, campaigns officer
and many more. To get involved in
one of the SU executive roles, you
have to stand for election, which
takes place during the spring term.
The SU president and one other
executive officer are appointed as
the student governors. Governors are
responsible for the strategy, mission
and quality of the college
and for reviewing its performance.
The governing body meets five
times a year.
For more information
about your SU, see the
student development team
in room B221, or email
[email protected]
Student
representation
Members of each tutor group elect
two class representatives to act
as their voice and represent their
views on the student council. Class
representatives ensure there is twoway communication between the
student council, college management
and all students. Student Council
Summits occur four times a year
and are an opportunity for students
and staff to come together to talk
and plan. These summits focus on
interaction and feedback, and are a
direct channel for students to become
involved in shaping NewVIc’s learning,
teaching and support.
23
Work experience
What is work experience?
A work experience placement is an
opportunity for you to gain inside
knowledge of the world of work,
while you are still in education.
The placements are unpaid, but
the benefits you gain from the
opportunities are invaluable. You will
usually be on placement for either
one or two weeks, depending on
your programme of study.
Work experience presents you with
the opportunities to:
The college’s work experience team
can support you to find a work
placement that will help you gain
new skills, experience team work in
real situations and relate your course
and curriculum to the workplace.
NewVIc works in partnership with
a wide range of employers, such as
London City Airport, Stagecoach,
NatWest Bank, NHS Trust such as
Newham University Hospital, Health
Centres, GP surgeries, nursing and
care homes, nurseries, schools and
many more within London and the
Home Counties.
24
• work alongside other employees
as part of a team
• develop and practise a range of new skills
• become more confident
• relate your college curriculum and qualifications to the workplace
• enhance your CV and UCAS application, ensuring you stand out to employers and universities
• make more informed decisions about your future
• meet new people
• experience new places
• get to grips with the demands, routines and environment of work
• gain accreditation towards the Sixth Form Bac (SFBac).
To find out more,
or to arrange a placement, please
contact the work experience
team in rooms G12 and G13.
We want all our students to achieve the best they can and to become
skilled learners. Our skilled learner framework helps you and your
teachers to plan and monitor the development of your learning skills.
WHAT A SKILLED LEARNER
:
I am ambitious and keen to learn and
I take responsibility for my learning.
I am well organised and make good use
of my study time, knowledge and skills.
I am keen to learn and have short-term
and longer-term learning goals.
I arrive punctually, equipped and ready for
study; I meet deadlines and manage tasks well.
I know what I have learnt and what
I still need to learn.
I keep my work up to date and well organised;
I review my notes and catch up promptly.
I am developing my strengths and
addressing my weaknesses as a learner.
I work independently and organise
my study time well.
I am questioning and creative and I
respond positively to new challenges.
I ask relevant questions and do further
research to explain things better and
understand in depth.
I am prepared to question assumptions,
see things differently and try new approaches.
I am developing my strengths and
addressing my weaknesses as a learner.
I work well with others, respecting
them and learning from them.
I respect others and collaborate with them
as much as possible to help us all learn.
I ask for, and accept, help and feedback,
I listen to others and share my own ideas readily.
I am prepared to express myself in groups
and to take a lead in group activity.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOUR COLLEGE
www.newvic.ac.uk
@talknewvic
fb.me/newhamsix
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Supporting students
Tutors
Academic mentors
Every student has a personal tutor
who will meet with you weekly. They
aim to ensure you fulfil your academic
potential and are the first port of call
if issues arise and you need support
or guidance.
Our team of academic mentors are
all former NewVIc students who have
recently graduated from university
and provide a fantastic resource to
students. They work with you and
your tutor to ensure you are
meeting your targets and fulfilling
your potential.
Your tutor will:
• help you action plan and review your progress with you during
your course
• support you in meeting your aims and fulfilling your aspirations
• help your progression to university, further training or employment
• encourage your wider personal development
• assist you in overcoming any issues or difficulties that may arise
Additional studies
You will be encouraged to choose
an individual programme that suits
your needs and aspirations. Your tutor
will help you consider additional
studies during induction. This might
be a GCSE in English or mathematics
or another area of study, such as a
European or community language.
Your mentor will:
• help you track your progress and meet challenging targets
• help you develop independent study skills and be self-organised
• ensure you meet college attendance and
punctuality requirements
Academic skills
and progression
All students follow a programme
designed to develop the higher level
academic skills that universities and
employers regard as essential. Your
tutor will help you write a high quality
application to university and give you
guidance on career paths. Sessions
will be delivered in part through the
virtual learning environment, iVIc
(see page 36).
27
Progress reviews
During the year, your tutor will review
your progress, set individual targets
with you and monitor attendance
and punctuality, assignment grades
and progress with your Sixth Form
Bac (see page 11). Reports will be sent
home to parents/guardians, who will
be invited to discuss your progress at
our parent evenings that take place
twice a year.
Skills development
Wherever opportunities arise, all
students are encouraged to develop
their English, maths, IT and study
skills through their main course and
the learner support practitioners.
However, if we think you would
benefit from dedicated support, you
will be timetabled to attend booster
sessions in the Skills Centre. Students
who attend workshops in the Skills
Centre usually have very high
success rates.
28
Additional learning support
NewVIc is committed to inclusive
education and all students are
encouraged to make the most of
their skills and abilities. If you have a
physical, sensory or learning disability,
you are also entitled to additional
learning support. More information
about the support is available from
student services in room B221 and in
the Skills Centre. See page 37 for
more details.
Support for students
Our aim is to support you in a way
that will help you achieve your
goals. Impartial information, advice,
guidance and support are available
to you at all times.
In addition to the support provided
by your tutor, specialist staff provide
confidential help with any issues
concerning finance (see pages 29-30),
careers and further study (see pages
32-34), health, learning difficulties
and/or disabilities (see pages 37-38),
or any other personal matter or
practical issue affecting your learning.
These services offer the opportunity
to make the best use of the choices
available to you in your academic,
personal and social lives.
The student welfare advisers are
in room B212 and the student
finance officer is based in
room B221.
Student finance
There are a number of schemes to
help with the cost of learning at
college*.
Learner Support Fund
The college has a fund to help
students finding it very hard to
pay for their education expenses,
including travel, books/equipment,
childcare and other educational
essentials. The scheme is open to
all college students and there are a
number of routes through which
you can apply for funding.
Each application is assessed on an
individual basis and will usually
consider your household income and
personal circumstances.
There are bursaries available to
students aged 16-18 and 19+, which
are paid on a half-termly basis, subject
to satisfactory attendance.
Your attendance MUST remain at
95% or above or you will not
receive payment.
We also have a scheme for students
experiencing additional financial
difficulty, who can apply for a oneoff payment to assist with specific
requirements, for example field
trips, university interviews etc.
Free college meals
The college also has a free meal
scheme. All students are able to
apply and your application will be
based on your household income
and the benefits you receive. If you
are approved for free meals your
entitlement will be pre-loaded on
to your college ID card allowing you
to claim a free, healthy meal every
day you attend college.
To apply,
please collect an application
form from room B221.
29
16-17 Oyster photocard
Those aged 16-17 who are living in a
London borough and are in
full-time education can travel for
free on London buses and trams.
Care to Learn
If you are a parent and under 20
when you start your course you
can apply for up to £175 per week
towards childcare and travel costs
while you learn.
Free tuition
You will not have to pay fees if:
• you are aged 16-18 when you start your course
• you are enrolling on a basic
skills course
• you are 19 or over and in receipt of the following means tested
benefits: Council Tax Reduction, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Job Seeker’s Allowance or Working Families Tax Credits where the household income is less than £15,050 per year.
For more information
on the above schemes, please
contact the student finance
adviser on 020 7540 0649 or
call in to room B221.
*Information is correct at time of
printing, July 2014
30
Counselling Service
Counselling at NewVIc is
private and confidential.
The college has a counselling service
available if you would like someone
to talk to about any concerns you
have, whether to do with college,
work, personal issues or home life.
Counselling offers a safe, informal
space where you can talk freely and in
confidence in a way that is not always
possible with friends, family or tutors.
Counselling is:
• an opportunity to talk to somebody in private
• a way to work out what is going on
• an opportunity to get
non-judgemental feedback
• a way of taking responsibility
for yourself
A counsellor is someone who listens
to you without making judgments,
or telling you what to do, and helps
you work through whatever is going
on in your life. The counsellor won’t
tell anyone what you say to them, or
even that you are seeing a counsellor,
unless you both decide someone
else needs to be involved. The only
exception is when you or someone
else may be at risk of harm.
Did you know?
Over 150 students use the counselling
service every year.
Where and for how long are the
counselling appointments?
• Counselling takes place in
room B210
• Appointments usually last
45 minutes
• You can stop at any time without having to give a reason
How do I see a counsellor?
There are several ways to make an
appointment:
•text 07876 147010
•phone 020 7540 0604
•email [email protected]
• drop-in sessions are held daily, 10.30 am – 11 am in room B210.
Some of the things students say
about counselling:
“It’s given me something to look
forward to and it helps me get
through the week.”
“It was less judgmental than I
thought, it was really enjoyable.”
Quiet Zone and workshops:
•Room B210 is a quiet zone in college where you can sit if you need time out.
• Look out for publicity for groups and workshops on personal development to help you deal with life issues and grow in confidence.
Health information and
medical advice
If you have any health-related
concerns, want to give up smoking,
need advice on drugs and alcohol, or
have any other problems then you
can either drop into student services
in B212 or call student services on
020 7540 0650.
Information sessions
These will take place during the year
on different issues such as mental
health, drugs, alcohol, and sexual
health. They will be advertised on the
notice boards and on iVic.
Substance misuse
The college offers confidential
help and support to any student
concerned about a drug or alcoholrelated issue. Help is available by
contacting the college counsellor.
Housing problems
Young people who leave home
will not be offered council
accommodation except in
extreme emergencies and rented
accommodation can be expensive
and difficult to find. You should seek
advice before making any decision.
Talk to your tutor or go to student
services for advice about making an
appointment with a housing adviser.
If you are made homeless you should
contact your local housing office
which will be listed in the phone
directory under the name of the
borough in which you live and always
inform your tutor.
31
Careers advice
We aim to ensure that all our students
progress successfully to the next
stage in their career, whether this
is a further college course, a place
at university, a job or a training
placement. Our annual destination
survey shows that each year almost
all of our students achieve this aim.
During your time at NewVIc you are
encouraged to develop the following
career management skills that will
help you move on from college and
achieve your career goals:
• recognising and developing employability skills
• finding out about career and higher education options
• putting career plans into action, including assistance with CVs, job applications, UCAS and higher education applications
Specialist support
The college has two qualified careers
advisers to provide information,
advice, guidance and support on
a one-to-one and group basis. The
careers advisers are based in the
careers room in the skills centre,
room B213. They can be contacted
on 020 7540 6951 or 0636.
32
Information, advice and guidance
Lunchtime drop-in sessions for
information and advice on any aspect
of your career or education planning
takes place daily in the careers room.
There is no need to book, just turn up
between 12.20 pm and 1.20 pm.
Booked guidance interviews last up
to 40 minutes and are an opportunity
for you to speak in depth and in
confidence with an adviser. Your
careers adviser will usually agree
an action plan with you as part of
your interview. Please drop in to the
careers room in B213 to make an
appointment or phone
020 7540 6951 or 0636.
Careers events
The college arranges for students
to attend a number of internal and
external careers events. These include
university open days, visiting speakers
from universities, employability
workshops and career focused
events with top employers. There
is also an annual higher education
fair, employability fair and a higher
education week.
Careers library
The careers library in the careers
room and LRC has a good range
of resources including books on
different occupations, college
and university prospectuses and
guides on CV writing and
preparing for interviews.
Software
You have access to the following
software packages:
• Higher Ideas to help you find suitable higher education options
• Pathfinder +HE to help you match your interests to university courses
Job seekers
Careers advisers can help you with
job searches and offer support with
applications and preparation for
interviews. The careers service also
run CV workshops and can work with
you one-to-one to help you create
or develop your CV as well as cover
letters for job applications.
33
Planning for your future
Learning Resources Centre (LRC)
There is an extensive range of audio
visual resources and current fiction.
Students may borrow items for up to
three weeks, although some are on
short-term loan only. Newspapers
and periodicals are also available.
The LRC is open*:
It is a good idea to start thinking
now about your plans for when you
leave college. You need to make sure
you gain as many relevant skills and
experiences as possible while at
NewVIc, to help you reach your goal.
You will get a lot of support from your
tutor and our careers advisers when
planning your next steps. You can pop
in to room B213 in the Skills Centre to
see the careers team.
Students can also secure valuable
work experience, through our
dedicated work experience team,
situated in rooms G12 and G13.
34
Your UCAS application – this is the
online application you will complete
to apply to university. NewVIc has
an excellent success rate in securing
places at university for its students.
Your tutor will be your key point
of contact during the application
process. The more you are involved
in college life the stronger your
application will be.
Employment and training fair and
Higher Education (HE) fair –
NewVIc holds its own HE and
employment fairs. These offer you
a fantastic opportunity to speak to
universities and employers from all
over the UK and find out more
about your options.
Mon
8 am – 8 pm
Tue
8 am – 6 pm
Wed
8 am – 6 pm
Thur
8 am – 6 pm
Fri
8 am – 5 pm
Sat
9 am – 1 pm
You become a member of the LRC
simply by completing your LRC
induction in the first few days at
NewVIc. The LRC team are eager to
involve you in developing the service
- students contribute through a
focus group.
The LRC is situated in B block and
available to all students. It contains a
library, a suite of bookable internetready computers running Microsoft
Office software, a group work area,
silent study facilities and a silent
computer room. Students can also
borrow netbooks using their LRC
account. The library is well stocked
with books for reference and for loan.
*correct at time of print (July 2014)
35
iVIc and Mahara
Skills Centre
What support is available?
What are iVIc and Mahara?
This is a formal learning area for
students to access specific support
for numeracy, literacy, ESOL, dyslexia
and visual impairment support. All
students are assessed at the start
of their course to see if they need
additional support, and will be
timetabled to attend individual or
group literacy, ESOL or numeracy
workshops, if needed.
Regular workshops
These are timetabled one-to-one
or group workshops for students
who need to develop their literacy,
numeracy or ESOL skills. Dyslexia
and visual impairment sessions are
also held in the Skills Centre. Students
are set targets to help them focus on
particular areas and usually attend
workshops once a week until they
have made the necessary progress. To
register for a workshop: tell your tutor,
complete the Referral Form on iVic or
visit B216 off the Skills Centre.
iVIc is the college’s virtual learning
environment and can be accessed
via college computers or at home.
Your teachers will communicate
with you and support your learning
through iVIc, where you can read
about college news, find out about
upcoming events and notices,
access all your course information
and homework and participate in
interactive activities.
How do I book a PC?
There are lots of computers available
for you to use for your college
work - you do need to book them
in advance. In the LRC, there are
computers near the front desk where
you enter your student ID and book
a computer. You can also borrow
netbooks from the main counter and
silent study area desk using your
LRC account.
It is important to know the rules
about using computers at college.
Any students using the college
computers inappropriately will face
disciplinary action.
36
Mahara is your own space to share
information with your friends and
teachers. You use Mahara to build
your own e-portfolio which you can
zip up and take with you when you
leave the college. You can log on at
college and from home.
You will find out more about iVIc and
Mahara during your LRC induction.
Who can use the Skills Centre?
Students from all courses are
welcome to use the Skills Centre
to access additional support for
their learning.
How do I access the Skills Centre?
The Skills Centre is in B block and
open Monday to Friday from
9.00 am to 5.00 pm.
The Skills Centre is open for drop-in
sessions for literacy, numeracy
and ESOL*:
Monday to Thursday
12.20 pm – 1.20 pm
*correct at time of print (July 2014)
Lunchtime drop-in workshop
sessions
For one-off support, just come to the
Skills Centre at lunch time, there is no
need to book. Drop in sessions are
available Mondays to Thursdays.
How do I know whether the Skills
Centre is for me?
Initial assessment
All students are assessed at the start
of their course to see if they need
additional support. If we think that
this help is needed, you will be met
by a member of the inclusive learning
team. They will discuss support
options with you and agree an action
plan. Support may include individual
or group sessions, in-class support or
drop-in provision.
37
Referral
Some students are referred for Skills
Centre support by their teachers or
tutor, or you can self-refer. Referrals
can happen at any time of the year.
How can I get support without
referral?
Many students ask for extra support
from the Skills Centre team and you
are welcome to come along to the
lunchtime drop-in sessions, or pop
into the Skills Centre at any other time
to ask about the different support
that is available.
Specialist support
Support for students with visual
impairment
The college has an experienced
teacher of the visually impaired on
hand to offer advice, guidance and
additional learning support, whether
you are a Braillist or large-print user.
Equipment available includes: Jaws
and Supernova software, Perkins
Braillers, a scanner and Duxbury
Braille software, a CCTV and a
portable Opti-versa and i-Pads.
38
Support for students with specific
learning difficulties (dyslexia,
dyspraxia and dyscalculia)
We can screen for specific learning
difficulties (SpLD) and carry out full
assessments. We work with students
who have SpLD and provide bespoke
support programmes to enable them
to manage their learning as effectively
as possible. This may be achieved
through in-class support, regular
workshops, and/or the use of assistive
equipment. If appropriate, access
arrangements for examinations can
be applied for in conjunction with the
exams office.
Specialist examination arrangements
Specialist examination
arrangements
Students who have a learning
difficulty, disability, medical condition
(be it permanent or temporary) or
dyslexia, may be entitled to special
arrangements in examinations
and assessments.
If you are granted special examination
arrangements, you may practise
using these arrangements in mocks
and practice tests. The special
arrangements are designed to help
you complete the examination to the
best of your ability.
What do special arrangements
include?
Students can be given one or more
of the following arrangements:
1. Extra time
(25%: that is 15 minutes for
every hour)
You can use your extra time to:
• read the exam paper slowly and repeatedly so that you understand
it completely
• re-read selected passages for specific questions
• plan your answer, making sure you use any keywords in the title
• proofread your writing – to check
it makes sense.
2. Reader
A reader will read the exam paper
for you. You can read it at the same
time and this will help you remember
what you have read. A reader will
also re-read any sections you ask
them to. This will help you if you
want to remind yourself of a passage
to answer a question. If you want
the reader to read difficult parts
several times, just ask them. A reader
cannot explain questions or give the
definition of words.
3. Scribe
A scribe will write your answers or
essay. For longer answers, it is useful
to ask the scribe to note down any
ideas you have about the question.
Once you have a clear idea of what
you are going to write, try to speak in
clear sentences. Tell your scribe when
you want to start a new paragraph.
4. Word processor
You may be able to use a computer
to word process your work. This
provision is sometimes granted for
students whose handwriting is hard
to read, or who write very slowly. This
allowance enables students to give
a typed version of their answer. The
word processor will not be able to
spell-check your work.
39
Equality of
opportunity
5. Transcript
This is for students who make spelling
mistakes that make their work difficult
to read. Your tutor will arrange that
after the exam, a teacher reads what
you have written and writes in correct
spellings to make your work easier
to understand.
6. Separate room
If you have a scribe or reader you
will sit your examination in a
separate room.
How do you organise special
examination arrangements?
Students are assessed to see if
they might be eligible for special
arrangements. We then send a short
report to the examination board
which supports your application.
In the case of some disabilities and
medical conditions, a letter from
your doctor is needed instead of
the assessment. It is important to
remember that decisions regarding
exam concessions are made by
the exams board. We can only
forward recommendations for
their consideration.
40
Most of the students given special
examination arrangements are
receiving learning support to help
them on their course, so we will
know about their needs. If you are
interested in finding out whether
you need learning support or special
examination arrangements, please ask
your tutor to refer you to the inclusive
learning team or call into room
B216 for an appointment.
If you had special examination
arrangements at school, please let
your tutor know so we can follow
this up. It is important to let us know
about your special examination
arrangements as soon as possible, as
some applications need to be made
as early as October in the first year
at college.
We value the diversity of our
students and staff
The college believes that everyone
should be treated fairly and with
respect and should be encouraged
to reach their full potential. Every
possible step will be taken to ensure
that all applicants, students, staff and
visitors are treated equally and fairly.
For example, if a potential student
has a disability that may affect
their studies, we will seek ways of
supporting that student to give him/
her equal opportunity to succeed.
This means ensuring (as far as is
reasonably practicable) that:
• all student areas are physically accessible
• equipment and assistive technologies are in place
• staff are trained to work with students of all abilities
• specialist staff are available to assist the student within and/or outside the classroom
In college you will find people who
are different from you in the way
they look, think and behave. They
may differ in age, gender, ethnic
background, abilities, religious beliefs,
pregnancy, gender identity or sexual
preferences. The college believes
that it is better to understand these
differences and respect people as
individuals, rather than try to make
everybody the same. It tries to
provide opportunities for
developing a better understanding
of different lifestyles, both within
the curriculum and through its skills
development programme.
If positive action to encourage good
practice fails, the college is prepared
to take action against anyone
(whether students or staff ) who
unlawfully or unfairly discriminates,
bullies or harasses another individual
on the grounds of gender, sexual
orientation, race, age, religion or
belief or disability.
There is an equality and diversity
committee formed with staff and
students. This group meets on a
regular basis to discuss, advise and
direct the college’s policies and
activities related to equality and
diversity issues.
41
Equality means saying
‘no to bullying’
If you feel picked on by others in any
way – for example, hurtful namecalling or jokes, unwanted physical
contact, threats – seek help. Tell your
tutor or one of your teachers or see
student services staff in room B217.
Safeguarding
The college is committed to
safeguarding and promoting the
welfare of children and young people
and vulnerable adults and expects
all staff, students, governors and
volunteers to share this commitment.
The college is committed to providing
a learning environment where all
students can feel safe and secure.
We have a Safeguarding Policy
and procedures in place, which are
available on our website. Sometimes
we may need to share information
and work in partnership with other
agencies when there are concerns
about welfare.
You have the right to be safe at all
times. Contact our welfare and
safeguarding team in room B212, or
youth safety workers in room D710,
if you or someone else appears to
be suffering some form of abuse.
NewVIc is committed to safeguarding
and promoting the welfare of
students. Our Safeguarding and Child
Protection Policy and procedures are
available on our website.
Our designated safeguarding lead
is Tracy Oko, director of student
services. The deputy safeguarding
lead is the welfare and
guidance manager.
42
43
General information
Clothing
Lost property
Students are expected to wear
clothing that is safe and appropriate
for any activity they are required to
undertake as part of their curriculum
or other college activity such as work
experience. Staff will give you further
guidance as appropriate.
If you find any lost property, including
mobile phones, please hand it to the
receptionist on duty immediately.
NewVIc cannot accept any
responsibility for loss or damage to
students’ property, including vehicles
or bikes. At no time should personal
items be left unattended in unlocked
classrooms or workshops, canteen or
any other areas of the college.
Multi-faith room
The college has facilities for private
prayer for students of all faiths. The
room is not a space for meetings,
discussions or socialising.
Parking
There are limited free car parking
spaces for students and visitors. All
cars must have vehicle tax, insurance
and MOT and are parked at the user’s
own risk. Students using their cars
and parking at the college need to
register their details with the college.
Smoking
NewVIc is a non-smoking college.
Anyone found smoking on the
premises, including outside areas,
will face disciplinary action. If you
want support stop smoking, contact
student services in room B212.
Bike racks are available at the rear of
the college. Students must provide
their own padlock and chain. The
college will not accept responsibility
for any loss or damage to bikes or cars
left on college premises.
45
Mobile phones
The Canteen
Mobile phones and other devices
can be a useful tool for your studies
and may also be carried by students
for other important reasons. Your
teacher may allow you to use your
phone in class, as part of the lesson,
however your phone should not be
used in class unless authorised by
the teacher. Phones must be kept
on silent in the LRC and not used for
calls. Persistent misuse will be dealt
with through the disciplinary process.
Inside the college
The canteen and eating well
You will need to keep your energy
levels up whilst you are at college, as
you will need to study hard and there
are so many activities to get involved
in. NewVIc has a canteen where you
can get pasta, sandwiches, salads,
jacket potatoes, and a wide range of
hot meals. The majority of the meals
are halal.
Sid’s Café in the Link is open
weekdays from 8.00 am until 5.30 pm
during term-time. It sells a range of
snacks and drinks. The main canteen
is open from 8.00 am until 2.30 pm,
Monday to Friday, for breakfast, midmorning snacks and lunch.
46
New for 2014: The college has a
cashless payment system which
operates through identity cards.
Further details will be given to you
at the start of the term. You can also
bring in your own food (from home)
to eat if you prefer.
Free college meals are available for
students who meet eligibility criteria
and provide evidence of household
income. Please speak to the student
finance advisor in room B221 to find
out more.
Students and college users must use
litter bins. You will see our clearly
labelled recycling bins around
campus. All non-recyclable waste is to
be placed in the red bins.
To maintain a healthy and pleasant
working environment in the college,
all students must comply with the
following:
• no smoking in any of the college buildings, the car park, gardens, any other outdoor campus areas
or outside the front gates of
the college
• food and drink is to be consumed only in the canteen and at the Link tables and not in any other parts of the college building
• in order to ensure maximum respect for college users, spitting and chewing gum are prohibited
• personal stereos and mobile phones cannot be used in the classrooms or other learning areas unless authorised by staff. Phones may be used in the LRC for research, not calls, and must be kept on silent at all times. Please also remove headphones and earphones before you enter the college
• no music is to be played out loud on college premises
• alcohol, illicit drugs and weapons are, of course, banned and students found in possession of any of these will be excluded immediately and details passed to parents and the police, if the law has been broken
• only authorised visitors, who have formal business at the college, are allowed on college premises and
must sign in at reception. Unauthorised visitors will not be admitted to the college and if NewVIc students encourage unauthorised visitors in any way, they will be disciplined and may be asked to leave
• students who fail to respect the environment or other college users will be automatically suspended
47
Outside the college Identity cards
NewVIc is located in a busy residential
area and all students are expected to
act as good ambassadors for NewVIc.
Students must:
• keep out of residential roads off Prince Regent Lane
• use litter bins provided – any person littering will be issued with
a fixed penalty fine by the local council
• leave the college area once lessons are finished
• always behave in a mature, respectful and considerate way towards our neighbours and
the public
Any breach of the above is
misconduct and will be dealt with
through the disciplinary procedure.
You will be issued with your personal
identity card (ID) and a lanyard when
you enrol. You must wear the card at
all times, as without it you will not
be able to borrow books, use the
workshops or use college equipment.
You may also be asked to leave the
building if you are not wearing your
ID card or do not immediately give it
to any member of staff when asked.
The card and lanyard will be issued
free of charge, but you will have to
pay a replacement fee if you lose
them. If you forget your card, you will
be issued with a day pass and charged
a daily fee.
Why do students and staff
wear lanyards?
Every student, member of staff and
visitor to the college has to wear a
lanyard displaying their ID card for
security reasons.
The college treats it as a priority to
ensure it is a safe and secure learning
community at all times. You must
wear your lanyard at all times when
in college. It will be considered a
disciplinary matter if you do not wear
your ID, or if you do not show it to a
member of staff when asked.
Use of college
computers
As a NewVIc student, you are entitled
to use the college’s IT facilities. This
includes computers, multimedia,
software and use of the Internet.
Internet access includes access to
online databases, electronic journals,
learning materials and email. You will
be given a NewVIc email address and
shown how to access your NewVIc
email account in tutorial. Email is the
main way we will communicate with
you during your time at NewVIc and
you must check your account
every day.
In order to ensure that the computer
system is used responsibly, students
are asked to observe the following
regulations and guidelines:
• food and drink are strictly
forbidden in all computer suites
• illegal material must not be downloaded
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• students must not send inappropriate emails
• never try and fix a problem with the computer hardware
• report faults when you spot them to the teacher or the IT support technician on duty
• never load or run your own unauthorised software, including gaming software
• only use your own network directory
• social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter etc) are available for use related to study only
• students must not use the internet to misrepresent the college or members of the college community
• any form of cyber bullying will strictly result in disciplinary action
• do make efficient use of your own directory by regularly deleting unwanted files after copying them onto your USB memory stick (which can be purchased from the LRC)
• use the adjustable chairs when working on a computer, but do not move around the room on them
• always leave the computer suite in a clean, safe and tidy condition
• do not give your log-in details to anyone else or use somebody else’s account
The network is regularly checked
to ensure it is only being used for
college-related work.
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Attendance and punctuality
Your days in college will be busy.
All our courses are challenging and
require maximum commitment. As
a full-time student we expect you
to have 100% attendance. Less than
full attendance may mean you won’t
achieve the grades you are capable
of and you will run a serious risk of
failing your course.
By accepting a place at NewVIc you
are entering into an agreement to
work to the best of your ability, attend
all classes and tutorials and to arrive
on time.
Poor attendance and punctuality are
also unacceptable because of the
disruption to teaching and learning
for your class-mates. It also takes
up valuable staff time where they
would otherwise be helping students
to succeed. Students are therefore
closely monitored to ensure they
attend all classes, arrive on time and
keep to course deadlines.
Punctuality
You are expected to be at the door
of the classroom before the start of
each of your lessons. If you are more
than 10 minutes late you will not
be allowed in to classes and will be
marked absent.
Authorised absence
Only two absences will be normally
authorised in any one half-term. If you
are absent for more than two days in
a half-term due to sickness, you will
be marked as ill (as long as evidence
is provided) but your absence will
not be authorised. Only your tutor
can authorise absence and they may
consider exceptional circumstances in
some cases.
Work experience and educational
visits organised by the college are
counted as ‘present’.
Authorised absence may include:
• a medical appointment notified in advance: appointment card/
letter required
• care of family member, notified in advance unless emergency
• a religious holiday if notified
in advance
• university visit or career/job interview, notified in advance
• attendance at a funeral, notified
in advance
• attendance at a probation meeting, notified in advance
• illness - for students under 19, a supporting letter from parent/
guardian required
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What do I do if I am ill or unavoidable
late?
If you are ill or have an emergency you
must phone the attendance hotline on
020 7540 0650 between 8 am and 10
am, with your student ID number. The
student advisers will take your call
and pass a message to your tutor
and teachers.
Returning to college
As soon as you return to college after
an illness you need to apply to your
tutor to authorise your absence using
the green authorisation of absence
form. You must provide a letter from
a parent/guardian and/or proof of an
appointment within two days of
your return.
Unauthorised absence
Examples of unauthorised absence
include:
• driving lessons
• employment during class time
• family holidays in term time
Absence for coursework completion
or revision will not be authorised.
Booking holidays
The attendance agreement requires
you to attend ALL term-time classes.
You must check term dates, including
return dates for the second year, and
ensure that family holidays do not
clash with these.
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When will I be contacted?
• If you have not phoned in, or have not applied in advance to have an absence authorised, you can
expect a call asking you to explain your absence. We may also contact your parent/guardian.
• If your attendance or punctuality is a cause for concern – you will have a meeting with your tutor to agree an action plan and to arrange any necessary support.
• If you do not keep to your action plan, your tutor will follow the disciplinary procedure and contact your parents or guardian.
Your tutor is there to guide you and
will help you find practical solutions
to problems you may have with
attendance, including travel or finance.
Student learning
contract
We aim to make NewVIc a warm, safe
and supportive college, in which
everyone is treated with courtesy
and respect and where everyone can
progress. The charter sets out what
members of the college community
can expect and is the learning
contract that students sign up to
when accepting their place at NewVIc.
Students can expect:
• good information, advice and guidance from expert staff at
every stage
• a good start to college – easy application and enrolment,
thorough induction and being made to feel welcome and safe
in college
• an early assessment of learning needs, a learning plan and
prompt support
• support and encouragement to succeed and a personal tutor to
help them achieve their goals
• excellent teaching that is varied, stimulating, challenging and
inclusive
• clear targets and regular feedback on their progress, shared with parents/guardians
• encouragement and support to make healthy choices
• guidance to make realistic and ambitious plans for their future in education or at work
• an attractive, accessible and well-
resourced learning environment
• recognition and respect for their language, culture, values, beliefs, abilities and interests
• confidence that any behaviour issues or discrimination will be dealt with quickly and effectively
• encouragement to feedback their views and confidence that these will be acted upon
• the opportunity to get involved in a wide range of activities to develop their broader skills and interests
We expect students to:
• know, follow and promote the college code of conduct at all times
• adopt a mature approach to learning, keep up with their work and aim for 100% attendance and punctuality
• let us know early when and where support is needed
• respect all other members of the college community and deal with differences calmly and sensibly
• act as good ambassadors for NewVIc, showing mature and respectful behaviour on and
off campus
• take full advantage of all the learning and wider opportunities offered at NewVIc and become fully involved in college life
• be prepared to give feedback on their learning and experience
of college
53
Student code of
conduct
You must:
• treat all members of the college community with courtesy
and respect: students, staff
and visitors
• identify yourself, display your ID card in its lanyard at all times and
give your ID card to staff if requested
• attend all your classes punctually, equipped and ready for study
• hand in all your work on time
• follow all reasonable instructions from staff and comply with exam and network regulations
• act as an ambassador for the college by behaving in a considerate, respectful manner towards others when outside the campus
• make your way promptly to your destination on leaving the campus
• treat college property with respect and follow all health and safety rules
• place litter in appropriate waste bins, whether it’s yours or not
• behave in accordance with the law, eg on violence, theft, fraud, damage to property, graffiti, carrying weapons, substance
abuse, possession and intent to supply alcohol or other drugs
All incidents involving law breaking
will be reported to the police.
You must not:
• use aggressive, threatening, violent or abusive language or behaviour or incite or encourage others to do so; this includes any form of harassment or discrimination
• behave in any way which brings the college into disrepute, offends or inconveniences members of
the local community
• be in possession or under the influence of alcohol or any
other drugs
• cheat, plagiarise or copy work from others, make fraudulent claims, alter college records, forge signatures etc
• engage in obscene, indecent or over-familiar conduct, run, shout or make excessive noise in or around the campus
• modify or deface your ID card, give it to others or encourage unauthorised people on to the campus without permission
• eat or drink outside designated areas, smoke, spit or chew gum anywhere in or around the campus
• use mobile phones in any learning settings including the LRC or film, photograph, share images, without specific permission
• distribute cultural or religious material or organise events on campus without permission
• gamble or play card games on campus
This list is not exhaustive and other
situations will be dealt with in the
spirit of these guidelines.
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Health and safety
Students should:
Health and safety policy
You should make yourself familiar
with the college health and safety
policy. NewVIc positively promotes
a health and safety culture to
provide all students and college
users with a safe, healthy and secure
environment. You must pay attention
to all instructions regarding accident
prevention and safety. All accidents
must be reported immediately to a
member of staff and will be recorded
on an accident report form. You
must comply with all instructions
on health and safety. The college
can accept no responsibility for any
injuries sustained by the disregard of
instructions, through negligence by a
student or misuse of equipment.
• take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and
others who may be affected by
their actions
• co-operate with the college and employers on health and safety matters, including the appropriate use of all equipment
• not eat or drink in computer rooms, classrooms, workshops or the LRC
• not drop or leave litter
• not chew gum whist on premises
• complete a medical questionnaire
in tutorials, at the beginning of
the year
If you have a medical problem,
which may mean that you could
require help while at college, you
must ensure that this information is
on your personal file.
Hazards
Reporting hazards is important
because it ensures a safe environment
for you and your fellow students. In
the first instance, report the hazard
to your tutor, or refer your concern
to reception. Spitting is a health and
safety hazard.
Disability access and facilities/
disability agreement
There is disability access for
wheelchair users on site. Most
study rooms have disability access,
including the LRC and the canteen.
There are a number of disabled
toilets on site.
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Evacuation procedure
The evacuation procedure is designed
to ensure that all students and staff
are able to vacate the buildings
quickly when the alarm (sirens/bells)
is sounded. Sirens/bells will sound for
any of the following reasons: there
is a fire, a bomb warning has been
received and the decision has been
taken to evacuate the buildings,
there has been a major spillage
of potentially hazardous material,
vandalism to any of the fire call
points, the system has developed
a fault.
Practice evacuations are normally
held during the autumn and spring
terms. A practice is not normally
held in the summer term because of
examinations.
False alarms can occur, but it is
important that you evacuate the
building when the alarm sounds. This
is for your safety.
Fire
Ensure that you read and are familiar
with the fire notices in each of the
classrooms and college areas that you
use. These notices tell you the nearest
exits and assembly points. The fire
alarm is a loud siren accompanied by
flashing beacons. In the event of a fire
alarm, you must leave the building,
regardless of where you are and what
you are doing, as quickly as possible
without running, and assemble in
your class group as instructed.
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Do not re-enter the college buildings
until you are told to do so by a
member of staff. It is a serious offence
to cause a hoax alarm and will result
in disciplinary proceedings, including
a financial charge for any expense
incurred by the college.
Comments, compliments and complaints
It is important that you know the
following:
• your means of escape, preferably with an alternative
• the nearest fire alarm point
• the nearest fire appliance and how it should be used
• the location of the assembly points
Students with mobility issues
In an emergency, you will be helped
to the nearest stairwell. Then the fire
control officer, who is at reception,
will be advised of your position.
Help will then be sent to assist and
evacuate you.
First aid
The college has qualified first
aiders who can administer simple
medical help. If you require hospital
treatment, transportation will be
arranged and your next of kin
informed. It will be their responsibility
to arrange for your collection and
transport home.
We welcome your views as they help
us to continue to improve the quality
of the service we offer. If you are not
satisfied with any of our services, you
have the right to complain and your
complaint will be taken seriously. The
college has a complaints process that
aims to be simple, easy to understand
and designed to help resolve any
complaints quickly and easily.
If you need help or advice using any
of the procedures, you can consult
your tutor, a member of student
services staff, or the Student Union.
You should approach only one of
these sources, not all of them. He/
she may deal with your complaint
personally, or refer you to the most
appropriate person or procedure.
The complaints policy sets out the
timescales for dealing with and
responding to complaints.
What do you think about the
college?
This is your college and we want to
know your opinions about it. There
are several ways in which you can
express your views. Make sure that
you use them!
1. Course representatives
During induction each course will
elect a class representative who
will attend curriculum meetings to
feedback to staff and managers.
2. Student surveys
Students will be asked to complete
satisfaction surveys at the beginning
of, and during, their course of
study. This will include questions
on teaching, learning and college
services. The results are analysed by
college management and used to
assess the college’s success and
plan improvement.
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Useful contacts
External contacts
Emergency contact numbers
Connection St Martins (homelessness advice)
Shelter at Newham CAB (housing advice)
General
NewVIc student welfare
Crimestoppers
Race and equality in Newham
Newham Asian Women’s Project
Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)
(www.citizensadvice.org.uk)
3. Focus groups
Staff and managers will invite
students to attend focus groups.
These will be used to discuss and
seek student views on courses and
college services. The groups may
also be used to help the college
plan and implement new ideas and
developments for the benefit of
students.
4. Course reviews
At the end of every course, the
curriculum manager will invite
students to attend a course review
and evaluate the success of the
course over the year.
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5. Student Council
At the beginning of the year, every
tutor group will elect two members
to become Student Councillors
to represent their tutor group at
the Student Council Summit. The
meetings take place every half-term
and are chaired by the assistant
principal – student services. The
Student Council provides an
effective medium for consultation
with students and a direct channel
for students to become involved in
shaping NewVIc’s learning, teaching
and support.
Health
NHS Direct (www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk)
Sexual Health Line (www.fpa.org.uk)
Drug and Alcohol Service for London
(www.dasl.org.uk)
Eating Disorders Association (BEAT)
(www.b-eat.co.uk)
Frank about drugs (www.talktofrank.com)
Smoking (www.quit.org.uk)
Terrence Higgins Trust (www.tht.org.uk)
020 7766 5544
0344 515 1231
020 7540 0650
0800 555 111
020 7473 5349
020 8472 0528
08444 111 444
0845 46 47
0845 122 8690
020 8257 3068
0845 634 7650
0800 77 66 00
0800 00 22 00
0808 802 1221
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Personal
Samaritans (www.samaritans.org)
National Domestic Violence helpline
Carers line (www.carersuk.org)
Childline (www.childline.org.uk)
Cruse Bereavement Care
Internal contacts
08457 90 90 90
0808 2000 247
0808 808 7777
0800 1111
0844 477 9400
Relationships
NewVIc’s counsellors offer a confidential service but if you prefer to talk to
someone outside the college there are several organisations that may help:
u prefer to talk to someone outside the c
Brook advisory service
(www.brook.org.uk)
SHINE (www.shine.nhs.uk)
62
0808 802 1234
London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard
07624 802 242
020 8586 8888
0300 330 0630
Unemployment and benefits
Stratford Job Centre
Plaistow Job Centre
East Ham Job Centre
Housing and council tax benefit help in Newham
020 8918 5200
020 7506 4204
020 8210 5707
020 8430 2000
Nrich and Student Union
Attendance line
Careers advice
Counselling
Financial support
Inclusive learning
Information and advice
Sports Academy
Student welfare
Work experience 020 7540 0613
020 7540 0650
020 7540 6951 or 0636
020 7540 0604/
07876 147010
020 7540 0649
020 7540 0594
020 7540 0623
020 7540 6953
020 7540 0650 or 0560
020 7540 0695
Room B221
Room B213
Room B210
Room B221
Room B221
Room B218
F block
Room B212
Rooms G12
and G13
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Who’s who
The college has trained specialist advisers dedicated to supporting you whilst
you are at NewVIc.
Student welfare and safe guarding advisers
Room B212
The student welfare advisers can give practical advice on homelessness,
abuse, alcohol and drugs, relationships, domestic violence, money,
general health, forced marriages, immigration and pregnancy. They can
direct and make referrals to external organisations where you can go for
additional support.
Careers advisers
Room B213
Get advice on applying to university, choosing a career and looking for
employment or training. Book an appointment or drop in any lunchtime.
Julie Rashid
Marcia Brissett-Bailey
Youth safety workers
Room D710
Asma Bashier
Joanne Harris
The youth safety team keep the college environment safe and
welcoming. They are there to give guidance and advice and also work
with students to resolve any issues they are experiencing. They can help
you if you are worried about your safety, have experienced or witnessed
bullying or have any issues with your fellow students.
Student finance adviser
Room B221
Get help applying for discounted travel. You may also be able to get
financial assistance through the learner support fund or receive free
college meals. The student finance adviser can also process authorised
absence forms, once completed by your tutor.
Jerry St Louis
Sharon Roach
Lucita Comwillis-Paul
Mohammed Chaudhaury
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65
Notes
Counsellors
Room B210
The counsellors support students with various personal issues, including
relationship difficulties, stress or emotional problems, which may be
getting in the way of their studies.
Suzzanne Keys
Student Development Team
Room B221
Kate Reed
Student development
manager
Steven Kern
Youth activities leader
Find out more
on iVIc, or at the Freshers’ Fair at the
beginning of the year or contact
Kate Reed [email protected] or
Steven Kern [email protected]
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Notes
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Notes
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Newham Sixth Form College (NewVIc)
Prince Regent Lane, Plaistow
London E13 8SG
T: 020 7473 4110
F: 020 7511 9463
W: www.newvic.ac.uk
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