STUDENT LIFE

A great way to meet students with similar interests is through the Support and Interest groups. We have a variety of student led groups from The Q Agenda (LGBTQIA+) and Transform (Trans support). These groups offer students a chance to share experiences while the Black Culture Club looks at celebrating and supporting culture and history across our campuses and the Disability Awareness Group - ENCOMPASS – works to champion students of all abilities.

If you are looking for information on healthy eating, budgeting, exercise, sexual health, smoking, drugs or wider health issues, the Wellbeing Zone is the place for you. Specially trained staff can help answer questions and give you information and advice. Our College works with local professional organisations to provide you with the best services in the area.

We provide the opportunity for students to listen and talk to speakers in a range of areas. Talks take place throughout the year, here are just a few we deliver: • Bedfordshire Police talking about knife crime and gangs • Drag Race UK contestant

Vinegar Strokes talking about

LGBTQIA + lifestyles • Mind BLMK talking about

Mental Health Reliance.

Throughout the College calendar we run a number of themed activities to help share key information that affects students’ lives and include for example: • Black History Month • Equality & Diversity Month • Freshers’ Fairs • Health & Well-being Month • International Men’s Day • International Women’s Day • LGBT History Month • Safer Internet Day • Wear it Pink Day • World Environment Day.

You will have a chance to try your hand at sports and activities during your breaks and down time. All of these sports and activities are student led, including badminton, football, tennis and more.

Our team of experts can deliver a range of workshops and sessions for your groups or peers, including: • Alcohol and drugs support • Body image and confidence • Gambling and addiction support • Mental health resilience • Stop smoking • Stress and anxiety.

Across all our campuses we hold Student Voice Network meetings. These termly meetings discuss relevant college topics and there is an opportunity for Student Representatives to feedback on more general issues/ideas at every session. This means any changes requested by students can be discussed and resolutions put in place.

Enhancement is a key part of your study programme, giving you the opportunity to broaden your College experience. Taking part in trips and visits, as well as having guest lecturers and speakers, all give you the chance to meet new people; it may make a difference between getting a job or being accepted into university.

The Students’ Union works in partnership with the College, striving for outstanding teaching, learning, services and facilities. The Students’ Union has a passion for participation and a drive for diversity, with equality and diversity officers leading the way in innovation. To find out more, speak to our Student Services team.

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As a student at our campus you are also entitled to purchase a TOTUM card. TOTUM gives you access to over 250 student discounts and now acts as an official proof of age ID. Some local shops and stores that offer student discount will accept your student card as proof of student status. You can join by visiting www.totum.com

We have specialist support staff for those with an identified learning difficulty and/or disability.

We believe that the unique experiences, abilities and backgrounds of each individual adds to the overall learning experience.

Our professionally qualified Careers Advisers provide impartial, confidential advice and guidance to help you: • decide what you are going to do next • find out more about your options in education, training and work, both at College and beyond • get support with job searches and with your university application (UCAS) • put your plans into practice. If you are looking for information or have a quick query, you can drop into the Student Services office where an Adviser may be able to help you immediately, or you can book a longer appointment.

Your Personal Achievement Tutor (PAT) will support you with personal development, progress on your course and career planning. As a full-time student you are entitled to at least three individual tutorials per year, plus regular group tutorials. Within the first six weeks of your course your Personal Achievement Tutor will meet with you for your first initial one-to-one tutorial to make sure you are settling in and are on the right course.

We are committed to keeping you safe at all times and we offer a dedicated counselling service if you need someone to talk to.

You can speak to our Student Services team for all money matters relating to College.