Essential information 2016/17

Blackpool Sixth

Essential Information 2016 - 2017

www.blackpoolsixth.ac.uk

Summary of contents Welcome to Blackpool Sixth Our mission and values Important dates for 2016 - 2017 Study programmes and entry requirements Academic Support Tutorials (ASTs) Directed Study Time (DST) Study Day Communication with parents/carers The Blackpool Sixth day Membership cards Reception Equality and diversity Acceptable use of computers Attendance and punctuality Term time holidays Absence procedures Special leave Long-term sickness Safeguarding and confidentiality Change of circumstances Safety and first aid Pastoral care and tutorial Additional support for students Minimum Target Grades (MTG) Changing a subject External and mock examinations Progression to Year 2 FYi – The learning resource centre The College environment Student Services, financial support and transport support Careers and education, information, advice and guidance Work experience placements The excellence programme Curriculum based enrichment (6Advance) Enrichment programme (6Xtra) Bicycles, motorcycles and cars Catering facilities Illegal substances, smoking and consumption of alcohol Dress to college Compliments, concerns and complaints Disciplinary procedures Other policies operated by the Directors (Governing Body) Charges to students for college activities Financial contributions for specific subjects

Our Mission:

Inspiring learning, developing character, building futures

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Blackpool Sixth 2016 - 2017 Introduction

Our core values The core values listed below underpin everything we do as a college and as a community:

Respect - for ourselves, for others, for the rule of law, for the environment

Excellence and High Aspirations - striving to be the best we can be

Support - helping everyone to succeed Inclusion - valuing everyone individually Integrity - acting according to our values and promises Global Citizenship - being active in improving our world and broadening horizons

Enthusiasm - learning because we love to learn, teaching because we love to teach

Welcome to Blackpool Sixth

Please note: The information given in this handbook was accurate at the time of going to press in July 2016 but may, of course, be superseded in some respects during the academic year 2016/2017.

I am delighted that you have chosen to join us for the next step in your education.

Blackpool Sixth is a very welcoming, supportive and friendly place in which to study. Students achieve outstanding results; this is in part due to the fact that we have high expectations of all our students and staff.

I hope that you find this handbook useful. You will find information about important matters, including student attendance, travel, college policies and health and welfare.

Important dates for 2016 - 2017 25th & 26th August 6th September 7th September

Our ‘College Expects’ document gives guidance on what is expected of you in terms of your studies and general behaviour. It also clearly sets out the high standards that Blackpool Sixth expects of itself to ensure all our students can achieve their full potential and receive the best support. We will provide you with an environment that helps you to make a smooth and confident transition to university, further training and a future career.

8th September 21st September

Blackpool Sixth values a positive partnership between college, students and their parents/carers; communication therefore is very important to us. In the Autumn and Spring term parents/carers will receive a Newsletter, which will provide updated information and news about Blackpool Sixth. Please visit our website www.blackpoolsixth.ac.uk for regularly updated news and information.

8th February

Please do not hesitate to contact any member of staff should you need to – we are all here to help.

Wishing you happiness and success during your time with us.

24th - 28th October 15th December 3rd January 9th – 13th January 1st February

20th - 24th February 9th March 23th March 7th April 24th April 1st May 29th May - 2nd June 9th June 15th June 11th July

Jill Gray Principal

17th August 19th & 21st August

Enrolment for new students Induction Day for Lower Sixth and 2Plus students Lessons for L6 and 2Plus students only Start of term for Upper Sixth Welcome Evening for all new students and their parents/carers Half term Students finish for Christmas Blackpool Sixth opens for Spring Term Mock examination week Parents’ Consultation Evening (surname A-K) Parents’ Consultation Evening (surname L-Z) Half term Preparing for University Evening for Upper Sixth parents/carers HE Information Evening for Lower Sixth parents/carers Students finish for Easter Sixth Form opens for Summer Term May Day Bank Holiday Half term Full-time study leave begins for Upper Sixth and 2Plus students Progression Evening (Lower Sixth students and parents/carers) Lower Sixth students finish for Summer AS/A2 Results Day U6 Enrolment Days

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Study programmes and entry requirements All students will have a study programme which will include: • Main area of study (A Levels, Level 3 BTECs, Level 2 BTECs or GCSEs, where appropriate).

• Pastoral mentor session • Pastoral mentor 1:1 review meetings • Directed Study Time (DST) • Course enrichment (e.g. course related visits and visiting speakers from higher education and industry) • Enrichment (e.g. 6Xtra activities) • Experience of work (e.g employability skills development) In addition, study programmes may also include: • English and mathematics GCSE studies (where appropriate) • Additional qualifications (e.g. Community Sports Leaders Award) • Work placements or volunteering placements (an essential part for students studying mainly BTEC courses or the 2Plus programme) • The Excellence Programme (see page 18) • 6Advance (see page 18)

Study Programme : Main area of study

Entry Requirements

A Level Programme 3 or 4 A Level courses In some cases a GCSE in English or Maths as part of the programme.

Students require at least 3 GCSEs at grade B and 3 GCSEs at grade C in 6 different academic GCSEs, including Maths and English.

BTEC Programme BTEC Extended Diploma or BTEC Diploma plus single BTEC or an A Level course(s) and/or GCSE English/Maths, where required

Students generally require 5 GCSE passes of C grade or above (or equivalent), including English or Maths. Passes must cover at least 3 different subject areas.

2Plus Programme (Level Two) GCSE English and/ or Maths, where appropriate and Level 2 Finance, plus a choice of one of the following: BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Workskills, GCSE Science, BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Creative Media or BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Countryside and Environment.

This is a foundation year for those students who don’t as yet have 5 GCSEs at A* to C and are looking to boost their qualifications, before taking Level 3 BTEC or, in some cases, A level courses, or entering employment with training.

A minimum of 4 D grades at GCSE is required to begin the 2Plus programme with GCSE Maths and English grades of at least E, unless exceptional circumstances apply.

Academic Support Tutorials (ASTs) Each subject is allocated additional time each week to provide extra support for students. ASTs will be provided to support students who may be struggling to understand specific areas of the syllabus, or those who are aiming towards high grades. ASTs will normally take take place during session 7 (3:20pm to 4:10 pm), where this is not possible ASTs will be timetabled during part of the lunch time period.

Directed Study Time (DST) Directed Study Time (DST) gives students the opportunity to work during their core day at college to complete tasks set by their subject teachers and other members of staff. Students will be set DST tasks such as: completion of homework or assignments • coursework • preparation for lessons or wider reading • research tasks •

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Students should expect to spend at least four hours on independent study every week for each of their subjects. This will include research for assignments and extra reading, as well as set homework and directed study tasks. Pastoral Mentors will help students to make effective use of their independent study time and support students to complete work and meet deadlines.

Attendance reports These will be sent to parents/carers in October and January.

Attendance data is also included in the Progress Review reports sent in October and February.

Progress Review and consultation evenings Progress review reports giving details of each student’s progress, effort, attendance and current achievement are sent to parents/ carers in October and in February. These follow one to one discussions between the student and his/her Subject Teachers and Pastoral Mentor.

Study Day The study day is designed to give students blocks of time for concentrated study. Students are usually allowed to work at home, however, if they wish they can use the college’s study areas such as the FYi and other facilities on this day. Teachers may ask students to come into college for part or all of their study day if they think it necessary, for example to catch up on work or carry out a resit key assessment. Therefore, students should not organise regular commitments that are not flexible on their study day. In addition students may use the study day part in work experience or work-related learning organised by the college. We see the study day as a vital part of the college week: it is definitely not a “day off”.

Communication with parents/carers At Blackpool Sixth we recognise the commitment parents and carers make in supporting their daughter’s/son’s/ward’s learning, so we aim to work in partnership with parents/carers to ensure all students achieve their full potential. We keep parents/carers involved in a variety of ways.

Email Blackpool Sixth is committed to improving the environment and will use paperless forms of communication, where possible. Newsletters and progress reports will be sent to parents/carers via email. It is important that college is informed of any changes to email addresses by sending the details to enquiries@blackpoolsixth.ac.uk

Consultation evenings Consultation evenings are held each year in February when parents/carers come into college to consult with individual Subject Teachers. Students are expected to accompany their parents/carers to the consultation evening.

There will be a higher education information evening for the parents/carers of Lower Sixth students in March. A careers and higher education progression evening will take place in June to help to confirm students’ decisions about their futures through a discussion involving the student, Pastoral Mentor and parents/ carers. Representatives from universities and employers are available for consultation at this event.

Other communication with parents/carers Parents/carers are welcome to enquire at any time about their daughter’s, son’s or ward’s progress, or any other matter. Please either telephone college and ask to speak to the student’s Pastoral Mentor or contact the member of staff directly via email.

Pastoral Mentors or Heads of Department will get in touch with parents/carers from time to time, and particularly if there is any reason for concern about a student’s work, well-being, attendance or punctuality.

A member of the reception team may telephone parents/carers to seek information about any student who is absent without a valid explanation.

Students over 18 years of age are advised to inform their Pastoral Lead or the Head of Student Services if they do not wish college to contact their parents/carers.

Newsletter Parents/carers will receive a Parents’ Newsletter in the Autumn and Spring terms which will provide updated information and news about college.

Website There is a wealth of information and news items available on our frequently updated website www.blackpoolsixth.ac.uk and on social media through the college’s Twitter and Facebook accounts.

Parent portal The parent portal is an online tool giving parents/carers direct access to their daughter’s/son’s/ward’s up-to-date attendance and progress data. Access details to the parent portal will be provided to parents/carers who are named on the student enrolment form and have provided a personal email address.

If the college has a valid email address for parents/carers then account details, including username and password, will then be automatically sent by email by the end of September.

Otherwise, an application to have access to the parent portal post enrolment can be made using the portal application form available from the college website.

Parents’/carers’ welcome evening This gives parents/carers an opportunity to establish personal contact with their daughter’s, son’s or ward’s Pastoral Mentor, learn more about Blackpool Sixth and the demands of the courses, and raise any concerns.

The Blackpool Sixth day Blackpool Sixth is open from 8.00 a.m. until 5.30 pm each weekday during term time.

Timetabled classes are generally arranged in sessions 1 to 6 but some activities, such as sport, enrichment activities and field trips take place outside these hours, and special arrangements are then made for students to have whatever access to Blackpool Sixth facilities they need.

Please note: each student receives a personalised timetable when they join Blackpool Sixth.

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Equality and diversity Blackpool Sixth celebrates and promotes diversity and advances equal opportunities for all. We aim to create an environment where students, staff and visitors are treated fairly, irrespective of race, ethnic origin, nationality, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief. We work to ensure an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued as an individual and that their opinions, views and diversity are encouraged.

Membership cards All staff and students must wear their membership card visibly on a Blackpool Sixth lanyard around their neck whilst on the college site, in lessons and examinations, when using college facilities or when taking part in college activities. This helps us to ensure the safety of all members of college and to confirm that only recognised visitors are welcomed on to the site.

Be safe – we are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment at college. Wearing membership cards will help us to feel safer by reducing the likelihood of strangers gaining unauthorised access to college. It is vital that we are aware of who should be in the college so we can easily identify anyone who is not supposed to be here. Anyone not wearing their membership card will be challenged and, if necessary, asked to leave.

Be proud – we should all be proud to show that we are members of Blackpool Sixth. The wider community will be able to more easily recognise what a college student or member of staff is like. This will add to our reputation for excellence and will improve the life chances of all members of college as we move forward in our future careers.

Be part of it – safety and reputation is the responsibility of all members of college. We must all play our part in wearing our membership cards and challenging people who are not displaying a valid membership card or visitor pass. We will all work together to make sure that college continues to be a safe and successful place to work and study.

Students who forget to bring their membership card to college will be asked to report to the FYi or the Student Finance Office where they will be given a temporary membership sticker.

Students must pay a £10 deposit for a replacement membership card and lanyard if lost, the deposit is refundable once the membership card or lanyard returned. Replacement cards can be obtained from the Student Finance Office.

Blackpool Sixth believes that everyone has the right to be treated with respect, and does not tolerate bullying or harassment in any form. Please speak to any member of staff to report suspected instances of harassment, or contact the Deputy Head of Student Services. All allegations of bullying will be investigated sensitively and appropriate action will be taken.

Acceptable use of computers We have outstanding IT facilities for students that are used inside and outside lesson time to support and enhance learning. Blackpool Sixth has a very clear Acceptable Use of Computers policy which each student agrees to the first time they log onto a college computer. Failure to comply with the policy could result in serious disciplinary action being taken.

During induction lessons all students are given information, advice and guidance about responsible and safe use of IT and the internet.

Attendance and punctuality Regular and punctual attendance at lessons is crucial to the success of our students. We monitor attendance at all lessons and other timetabled activities using an electronic register system. Parents/carers will be informed if students show a pattern of missing sessions without explanation or if they show poor punctuality.

Parents/carers are able to view the up-to-date attendance records using the online parent portal (see the Blackpool Sixth website for further details).

Term time holidays Losing vital weeks of study through taking a holiday has been shown to result in students underperforming in both exams and in BTEC coursework. Blackpool Sixth, therefore, does not normally permit holidays during term time. If there are extenuating circumstances surrounding the holiday request, then permission must be sought from the Principal, in writing, at least one month in advance of booking/arranging the holiday.

Any student who takes an unauthorised holiday will be suspended from college and will face a formal disciplinary hearing. The outcome of the disciplinary hearing could be permanent exclusion.

We take the safety of our students very seriously and anyone persistently not visibly wearing a membership card will face disciplinary action.

Reception

Reception is located on the ground floor of the main building and is staffed from 8.15am to 5.30pm.

Enquiries can be directed to reception in person, or by telephone, using the main Blackpool Sixth number 01253 394911.

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Absence procedures

Special leave

At Blackpool Sixth we expect students to let Subject Teachers know in advance if they are going to be absent from classes due to a scheduled appointment. Students should also inform reception so that absences can be logged on our registration system.

Blackpool Sixth expects students’ college work to take priority and all other activities will be arranged outside of their college commitments. However, it is recognised that there may be extenuating circumstances that may require special leave of absence from college.

For unforeseen absences, we expect students, or their parent/carer, to either telephone Blackpool Sixth on 394911 or email the student’s Pastoral Mentor before 10.30am on each day of absence. Emails must contain the student’s name and a brief reason for absence.

Authorised absences – if Blackpool Sixth is notified in advance - A medical appointment that cannot be arranged outside college hours (appointment card or appointment letter must be presented to reception).

- A religious holiday (a letter from parent/carer should be submitted to the Principal).

- Visit to university to attend an open day/interview; a careerrelated interview or audition (appointment letter must be submitted to the reception) - Attendance at a funeral of a close relative (a letter from parent/carer should be submitted to the student’s Pastoral Mentor).

- Attendance at court or an appointment with a legal adviser (appointment letter must be submitted to the student’s Pastoral Mentor).

- A practical driving test (appointment letter must be submitted to reception).

Note: Routine medical appointments (e.g. doctor, optician and dental appointments) should be made outside timetabled sessions and are not considered as authorised absences.

Authorised unforeseen absences - An emergency family situation (a letter from parent/carer should be submitted to the student’s Pastoral Mentor).

- Transport problems with no alternative solution (inform reception on arrival at Blackpool Sixth).

Examples of unacceptable reasons for absence - Holidays - Part or full-time work that is not part of the student’s study programme - Leisure activities - Birthdays or similar celebrations - Babysitting younger siblings - Shopping - Driving lessons - Driving Theory Test - Training in preparation for holiday/seasonal work Whatever the reason for absence, it is the student’s responsibility to complete work missed as quickly as possible. Students are expected to collect work from their Subject Teacher to prepare for the next lesson. Blackpool Sixth will support individuals following a period of absence and teachers will help students to quickly get students back on track.

If there are extenuating circumstances surrounding a request for special leave, then permission must be sought from the Principal, in writing, at least one month in advance. All extenuating circumstances will be considered on a case-bycase basis and will be taken into consideration alongside current attendance levels and the impact on studies and progression. Please refer to the college’s Special Leave Policy for full details.

Long-term sickness Where a student has an ongoing medical condition causing absence, but remains fit to study, it may be possible to make arrangements to support continued access to learning. Suitable medical evidence, along with recommendations from teaching staff is essential in order for this access arrangement to be put in place. Each case is considered on an individual basis by the Head of Student Support.

Safeguarding and confidentiality Blackpool Sixth is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, staff and visitors. All staff will be carefully selected using recruitment and selection procedures designed to emphasise our commitment to safeguarding. All posts, including volunteers, are subject to enhanced DBS clearance.

Blackpool Sixth actively promotes health awareness amongst students. Each member of the college community has an individual responsibility for health and safety. We have trained First Aiders on site at all times and access to a First Aid room.

Blackpool Sixth staff cannot offer absolute confidentiality to students. There are clear situations when it is essential that staff share information with external agencies such as social services or the police, for instance when there is suspicion or evidence that a student is in danger of being harmed or abused.

If you have any concerns about any safeguarding issues, or would like further information, please contact college and ask to speak with a member of the Deputy Head of Student Services.

Alternatively, you can email safeguarding.alert@blackpoolsixth. ac.uk

Students who feel unwell whilst at college should report to the Focus Centre where a member of staff will liaise with parents/ carers to decide whether or not it is appropriate to let them go home or seek medical attention.

Any students who are now, or ever have been, in care/looked after, or students who are living independently, should speak to a member of staff in the Student Finance and Welfare Office, who will offer practical support and advice. There may also be additional financial support for students in this position.

Student illness, unless supported by a doctor’s note, will be classed as an unauthorised absence.

Change of circumstances

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It is important that all our records are fully up to date. Students must inform reception of any change in personal circumstances, for example home address, email address or telephone number.

Safety and first aid

Minimum Target Grades (MTG)

Blackpool Sixth is a very safe and secure learning environment. In the unlikely event that students have an accident (or a near miss) at Blackpool Sixth, they should report it to the member of staff in charge or to reception. If necessary a First Aider will be contacted.

Students are given subject-specific Minimum Target Grades (MTG) for each of their subjects the start of their course.

The MTG is based on the on average achievement at level 2 that students have achieved when they join college. It is the minimum acceptable grade that should be achieved in each subject. The MTG is used to monitor the progress of individual students. The aspiration for students should be to at least achieve their MTG. We refer to MTGs in Progress Review reports which are sent to parents/ carers in October and February each year. Either side of these dates each student’s performance is regularly monitored and, where progress appears to be falling below minimum expectations, students will be directed to attend academic support tutorials (ASTs) and receive extra support from their Pastoral Mentor.

Students who are feeling unwell may seek assistance from any member of staff or from the Focus Centre. A First Aider will be called to attend to them if necessary.

Pastoral care and tutorial All students are allocated a Pastoral Mentor who will offer support and guidance throughout their time at Blackpool Sixth. They will help students to settle into college quickly, monitor their academic progress and look after their wellbeing. The Pastoral Mentor is central to everything students do and is the first line of support for them whilst at college.

If parents or carers have any concerns, they should contact the Pastoral Mentor who will respond as soon as possible.

Every student is a member of a pastoral mentor group.

Pastoral Mentors deliver a tutorial programme that is an integral part of students’ learning and development. It supports them to succeed on their programmes of study and progress into higher education or employment with training.

The tutorial programme aims to develop students’ ability to monitor and improve their own academic progress, to research and plan for moving on after college and to promote healthy lifestyle choices. It also helps students to acquire a greater awareness of social and economicrelated issues.

Students will meet with their Pastoral Mentor at least once a week as part of a group and also have regular individual tutorials to discuss their progress and agree specific targets for improvement.

Additional support for students Blackpool Sixth provides support for students whose additional needs may have been already recognised in school. However, support is also available where students’ needs are identified in college.

We support students with a variety of needs, relating to mobility and wheelchair access, visual or hearing impairment, dyslexia, dyspraxia, communication needs and medical conditions such as diabetes or epilepsy.

All students are given an initial literacy assessment during Induction. This, together with other information (for example from the family or school), helps us to identify students who would benefit from additional support.

If a parent, carer or student feels that support may be needed at Blackpool Sixth, please contact the ALS team on 01253 394911, or email learning.alert@blackpoolsixth.ac.uk.

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Changing a subject

Students are expected to show a commitment to their studies and continue with each of their chosen courses for the entire academic year. Occasionally, students may find they have made an unsuitable choice for a variety of reasons. In such circumstances it may be possible to arrange a change of subject during the week beginning 19th September.

Any student who has concerns about his or her course choices should speak to his or her Pastoral Mentor.

External and mock examinations External examinations

For a significant number of subjects at GCSE, AS/A2 and A Level, students will be required to sit examinations in the summer season (May/June). Visual Art subjects have exams in March and May. If a student has more than one examination externally timetabled at the same time, the Examinations Team will arrange for them to be taken at an alternative time on the same day and advise the student of the new exam start times. This may mean a student has to stay in isolation during the day, so will need to bring food and drink for lunch periods under supervision. Students will be individually notified if they are affected.

Mobile phones and electronic communication/storage devices and watches are not permitted in examination rooms, and disqualification is a risk if a student is found to be in possession of unauthorised items or materials.

Students are expected to attend examinations with their membership card and appropriate resources such as black pens, pencils, rulers and calculators, where appropriate. The resources required are listed on examination timetables issued to students.

Provided students have attended regularly and worked to the best of their ability, they will take their examinations (first attempt) free of charge. However, the demands of college courses are considerable and to guarantee examination entry paid for by Blackpool Sixth, a student must record a minimum lesson attendance of 90% in each subject unless there are special circumstances. Students whose attendance drops below 90% may be required to pay for their exam entry fees.

Mock examinations

FYi – The learning resource centre

In order to prepare students fully for the challenges of the summer examinations, we have planned a Mock Exam week that will take place early in January. Students will sit mock examinations in all examination based courses at Level 2 and Level 3. This will give students a taste of the real experience of sitting exams, and help them and their teachers to assess progress and plan improvements.

FYi (For Your Information) is the name given to our fully equipped Library and Learning Resource Centre. The state-of- the-art facilities have been carefully designed to aid students’ learning. The FYi is quiet place for students to study with an extensive range of resources for their use in a modern and comfortable environment. There are thousands of books, a wide range of magazines and DVDs, and the Library also provides access to university-style databases for both students and staff.

Examination resits Modular examinations can be re-taken but college will only pay for the examination entry fee for the first attempt.

Students wishing to resit examinations will be advised to discuss options with their Subject Teachers and Pastoral Mentor and submit applications with payment by the published deadline for the relevant academic year.

Examination study leave There will be short periods of study leave to offer students the opportunity to prepare for external examinations. Study leave consists of one half day immediately prior to each examination, except in the case of a Monday morning exam.

Examination certificates and BTEC coursework The rising costs of postage have made it prohibitive for Blackpool Sixth to post examination certificates to students at the end of their studies. Students are requested to collect their certificates in the Autumn Term, usually towards the end of November, after they have completed their time at Blackpool Sixth. Email reminders will be sent but the college can only retain the certificates for a limited period before returning them to Awarding Bodies.

BTEC coursework will be retained in college and cannot be released to students until mid November after certification.

Any coursework that has not been collected by the end of February will be disposed of appropriately.

FYi Study Advisors support your learning by finding and using information for you, and helping you to become an independent learner ready for life after college. Study skills workshops are offered throughout the year covering areas like organisation, exam techniques, time management, revision skills and stress busting. These workshops are designed to enhance the support given by the pastoral mentors as part of the tutorial curriculum.

The FYi is a great place to access Google Drive and Apps, which offer interactive help and course information 24 hours a day.

Please note that food and drink are not permitted in the FYi with the exception of bottled water. We also ask students to make or receive mobile phone calls outside the centre.

The FYi is open each day between 8.00am and 5.30pm during term time and 8.30am to 4.30pm during the Easter holidays and May half term.

The college environment Students have the benefit of first-class, specialist sixth form accommodation and facilities. We expect students to take care of their college and local environment. In particular, we ask students to observe restrictions regarding consumption of food and drink on carpeted areas and to place all litter in the appropriate bins provided.

Progression to Year 2 Lower Sixth to Upper Sixth Students are normally expected to achieve a pass at grade D or higher, or a Merit grade in equivalent BTEC subjects, by the end of the first year to progress to the Upper Sixth.

Students will also need to demonstrate satisfactory attendance and commitment during their first year at Blackpool Sixth. Students with an attendance below 90% will not automatically progress to the Upper Sixth.

2 Plus programme (Level 2) to Lower Sixth Students will need to demonstrate attendance above 90% and commitment during their first year at college, and meet the entry requirements for the Level 3 courses that they have applied for. Please refer to the prospectus or the college website for full details of entry requirements.

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Student Services, financial support and transport support There is a wide range of student services available, tailored to meet individual need. Friendly, supportive and dedicated staff are available from 8.30am to 4.30pm each day to offer information, advice and guidance on any issue that is causing a concern to students. Student Services offers the following guidance and support: Welfare Issues – in the Student Finance Office or email welfare. alert@blackpoolsixth.ac.uk Counselling – email counselling.alert@blackpoolsixth. ac.uk Careers information and guidance – the Futures Team in Cafe+ Enterprise and employment advice – the Futures Team in Cafe+ Sport and enrichment – in the Brock Building (first floor) Work experience – the the Futures Team in Cafe+

Transport support Blackpool Sixth recognises that the cost of transport is a major concern for some students and their families. We provide a significantly subsidised transport scheme for all students living outside a 3-mile radius (as defined on the college’s map). This scheme not only helps with transport costs to and from college but may also provide unlimited travel throughout the day, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

Students living outside of the 3-mile radius may purchase subsidised Blackpool Transport smartcards from the Student Finance Office at a significantly reduced price.

Bicycles for loan

Further details about how to access the support available will be given to students during their first few weeks at college.

Blackpool Sixth has a number of quality bicycles available to loan out to students to use throughout the year. The bikes come complete with helmets and safety lights. An application form can be obtained from the Student Finance Office.

Bicycles will be allocated on a needs basis.

Financial Support

Lockers

There are 5 types of financial support available to students:

A limited number of lockers are available for a hiring fee of £10 for one year plus a £10 deposit, which is refundable on return of the locker key. Locker keys are issued at the Student Finance Office.

• Guaranteed bursary of up to £1,200 for students in the most need plus free meals of £2.41 • Income-assessed bursary of up to £700 for students who have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190 • Free meals bursary of up to £700 plus free meals of £2.41 Subsidised Transport for students who live more than three miles from college • Hardship Fund which is an emergency fund for students who experience short-term financial hardship who are struggling to meet costs associated with studying at Blackpool Sixth Any student experiencing financial hardship is entitled to apply for financial support. There will be an assessment undertaken to ensure that support is provided to those most in need. Blackpool Sixth will ensure that financial support is implemented in the fairest possible way, to the maximum possible benefit of students who need financial support in order to succeed in their studies.

See the Financial Support leaflet for more information or contact a member staff in the Student Finance Office on 01253 394911.

Hardship Fund The purpose of the Hardship Fund is to financially support students who are experiencing short-term difficulty meeting the costs associated with their learning.

The fund is used primarily to provide support towards: • Travel support • Course costs/materials/textbooks/trips • General financial hardship If you or your family find yourself experiencing financial hardship, you may be entitled to financial help from the college.

Further details and application forms are available from the Student Finance Office.

Careers and education, information, advice and guidance The tutorial programme provides all students with careers advice and guidance. Students also have access to the Futures Team, our qualified careers advisors, for one to one meetings.

Separate careers events, visits and guest speakers are organised at appropriate times of the year. These events offer students the opportunity to meet university representatives as well as local/ national employers and training providers.

Individual advice and guidance on choosing career paths, apprenticeships, employment with training and higher education/university courses is available from our Futures Team, situated in Cafe+.

Students can also access support with applications, CV preparation and mock interviews from local employers as well as college staff.

Work experience placements A work experience placement gives students an insight into their chosen career and the experience needed to improve their chances of making successful job applications in the future.

All students studying a mainly vocational study programme and those on the 2Plus programme must organise and undertake work experience as an integral part of their study programme. This requirement for work experience also applies to students choosing to enter a particular profession or technical route to achieve their career aims.

Students are encouraged to arrange their own placements but they need to contact the Employer Liaison Officer before starting their placement to ensure that all essential health and safety arrangements have been made. Parents/carers will be required to sign a consent form.

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The Employer Liaison Officer, based in Cafe+, will offer assistance to source a suitable placement.

The Excellence Programme The Excellence Programme has been designed to support the achievement and progression of the most academically able students. Entry to the programme is based on GCSE scores and will be automatically determined at enrolment. The programme consists of three main elements, which are: 6Advance - a range of specialist academies that help students to develop essential skills and knowledge for competitive careers and university courses, including medicine and maths (see below); EPQ - the Extended Project Qualification is a formal qualification formed of a large-scale independent research project on a topic chosen individually by students, leading to a dissertation and presentation; Preparation for prestigious universities - all Excellence Programme students will receive support in the application process to highly selective universities. Students will take part in application workshops, guest lectures and university visits, as well as having the chance to take part in the Cambridge HE+ programme

Curriculum based enrichment (6Advance) As part of our study programme, we offer students the opportunity to enrich their studies through a range of academies, clubs and societies, including the science academy, medical club, debating society, etc. Please see the college website for more details.

Entry to each of the 6Advance academies, clubs and societies is selective and will be based on an application made early in the autumn term. The academies then run for the rest of the year (with a break for the summer exams). Pastoral mentors will give further details during induction.

Bicycles, motorcycles and cars Blackpool Sixth actively promotes sustainable travel alternatives, specifically public transport and cycling.

There is parking available for students but the car parks do become full, particularly in the summer term. To limit congestion and for environmental reasons students are encouraged to make use of alternative transport.

Students are encouraged to use bicycles as a means of transport to and from college. Covered, secure cycle racks are available at the rear of the site. Students are responsible for leaving bicycles securely locked and for their legal roadworthiness.

Students are strongly advised to insure them and to register them with the police.

There is currently a FREE Parking Permit scheme in use at Blackpool Sixth. Car drivers and motorcycle riders need to register their vehicle and sign to agree to the safety guidelines. An annual permit will be issued for display on the windscreen. Student Parking Permits are available from the Estates Office.

Please note: although there is a sophisticated CCTV system in operation, Blackpool Sixth cannot accept responsibility for the theft, loss or damage of any bicycle, motorcycle or car brought onto the college site.

Parents or others parking briefly to bring or collect a student are asked not to enter the college site or to park close to the car park entrance, as this causes congestion and the risk of accidents.

Enrichment programme (6Xtra) As part of Blackpool Sixth’s commitment to developing and broadening students’ skills and enjoyment of college life, we offer a varied programme of additional activities to enrich their studies, including sports, work placement, mentoring, leadership, volunteering, etc. Please see the college website for more details.

All first year students select one 6Xtra activity that they attend throughout the first term at college. After Christmas, participation in activities becomes optional, although certain activities such as sports teams and Duke of Edinburgh will continue throughout the academic year.

Some enrichment activities take place off college premises.

Students may be asked to make their own way to these activities or, where possible, transport will be provided.

Some activities inevitably involve obvious hazards (e.g. rock climbing) and are subject to risk assessments to ensure that the perceived hazards are as controlled as possible. Such activities are, of course, only undertaken under the supervision of qualified instructors.

Students will choose their 6Xtra activity at the start of term in September. Pastoral mentors will give further details during induction.

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Catering facilities Food and drink is available from Café+, Café Six, Relish and Starbucks. Meals and snacks are of a high quality and are good value for money when compared to other local options. Cash operated vending machines for snacks and drinks are also available. These are located in Relish, Café Six and next to reception.

Blackpool Sixth is committed to promoting healthy eating so a range of healthy, vegetarian and vegan options are available. Special dietary requirements can be catered for if notice is given.

Blackpool Sixth operates a cashless catering system.

This allows students to pay for food and drinks without carrying cash around. Instead, students pay for meals using fingerprint identification or a PIN number. Students register for the cashless catering system during enrolment in August. Parents/carers can top up their daughter/son/ ward’s account online, or students may choose to top up at one of the loading machines dotted around college. The loading machine take coins and notes up to £20.

Please note that all catering areas adopt a self-clear system and students are asked to clear away all their trays and packages as they leave.

Illegal substances, smoking and consumption of alcohol We encourage all staff and students to make healthy lifestyle choices.

It is illegal to smoke in college buildings and on the college site.

Smoking is only permitted in the designated smoking area by the main entrance. Students are requested not to smoke at the front of the college.

Help is available to support any students wishing to make a positive choice to go smoke-free. Recent guidance from the British Medical Association states that the use of e-cigarettes may undermine smoking prevention and cessation by reinforcing cigarette use in public and workplaces. The World Health Organisation has also stated that no rigorous, peer-reviewed studies have been conducted showing that the e-cigarette is a safe and effective nicotine replacement therapy.

Taking this into consideration, and to avoid confusion between e-cigarettes and tobacco smoking, the use of e-cigarettes is not permitted in college buildings nor on the college site, except in the designated smoking area.

Disciplinary procedures Blackpool Sixth expects all members of college to: • act according to the core values and expectations (see the Expects document) • act according to the Blackpool Sixth Sense of Pride - Proud of ourselves - Proud of each other - Proud of our environment - Proud of our community • be challenged if students or staff fail to meet the core values and expectations Repeated failure to meet the values and expectations or serious breaches may result in disciplinary action.

Disciplinary action is occasionally necessary in cases of poor attendance at lessons, failure to complete and submit work, including meeting coursework deadlines, inappropriate behaviour etc. The aim of the disciplinary process is to help students to improve their performance and prepare for the world of work.

Any students found consuming alcohol, or under the influence of alcohol, whilst at college will be subject to immediate suspension until the circumstances have been fully investigated. Parents/carers will be informed in accordance with the college’s disciplinary procedures.

Normally the procedures will be followed in the order out below. However, a student can move directly to an appropriate Formal in cases where there is more serious misconduct.

Any student found in possession of, or dealing in, illegal substances will be suspended pending an investigation, as a result of which the student’s place at college may be withdrawn. The police will be informed according to our legal obligations.

Support Plan: A Support Plan will be implemented by the student’s Pastoral Mentor. At this stage interventions are key, so an agreed support plan, which includes targets and identified areas of support for the student to achieve these targets, will be implemented.

Dress to college Blackpool Sixth is a community of staff and students who work and study together within an atmosphere of mutual respect. Students are free to dress as they please but they should fit in with the college’s high standards and expectations.

In line with our core value of respect, students who wear clothing which could cause offence to others (e.g. clothes that are too revealing or display offensive slogans or images) will be asked to cover the item of clothing up or will be sent home to change.

For security purposes, it is important that all members of college are clearly identifiable. Blackpool Sixth, therefore, requires all staff and students to keep their faces uncovered and to wear their membership card while on the premises and while representing college offsite.

Compliments, concerns and complaints We want your daughter/son/ward to be very happy at Blackpool Sixth; it is a very pleasant and friendly environment in which to learn.

If, however, you have a concern or complaint, this should be raised in the first instance with the person or area concerned as soon as possible and not later than within five working days of the incident.

This may be a student’s teacher or other member of staff. The member of staff dealing with a concern or complaint will make every reasonable effort to resolve the it promptly at local level as soon as possible or at least within five working days.

If the concern or complaint cannot be resolved, a formal complaint in writing should be made to the Deputy Principal. The college will respond within two working days to indicate that an investigation is being undertaken and aim to conclude an investigation and respond within ten working days of receiving a formal complaint.

Compliments may be received verbally or in writing and may be received directly by the individual in receipt of the praise or by a direct line manager. College staff will seek to share compliments in a genuine and generous manner.

The college’s compliments, concerns and complaints policy is available in full on the college website.

First Formal Warning: Students progress to a first formal warning as a result of not meeting the targets set through the support plan. The student attends a formal meeting with their Pastoral Mentor and Pastoral Lead and/or a Curriculum Leader. The student and parents/carers will be informed, in writing, of the outcome of the meeting and will receive a copy of the support plan and associated targets/expectations.

Second Formal Warning: Students progress to a second formal warning as a result of not meeting the targets set at the first formal warning. There will be a formal meeting held with the student, Head of Department or Curriculum Leader (acting on behalf of the Head of Department) and a member of the Pastoral Leadership team. Parents/carers are invited to attend.

Students and parents/carers will be informed, in writing, of the outcome of the meeting and will receive a copy of the support plan and associated targets/ expectations.

Formal Disciplinary Hearing: Students will progress to a formal disciplinary hearing as a result of not meeting the targets set at the second formal warning or as a result of an act of alleged gross/serious misconduct. There will be a formal meeting held with the student, the College Lead for Safeguarding and Student Standards or a Head of Department and a member of the Leadership Team who is independent of any previous disciplinary action relating to the case.

Parents/carers will be invited to attend the hearing.

The student will usually be suspended from Blackpool Sixth prior to the hearing. Students and parents/carers will be informed, in writing, of the outcome of the disciplinary hearing.

A student has the right to appeal against decisions made at a Formal Disciplinary Hearing. Appeals must be made in writing to the Deputy Principal within five working days of notification of the outcome. An appeal hearing will normally be held within five working days of receipt of such a request.

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Other policies operated by the Directors (Governing Body) In compliance with the Freedom of Information Act 2000, Blackpool Sixth issues a publication scheme. The scheme is a document where we declare which pieces of college-related information we publish or intend to publish in due course.

This is available on the Blackpool Sixth website.

Charges to students for college activities Although most aspects of a student’s education are provided at state expense, Blackpool Sixth does have to make charges to students for certain additional activities.

The Directors (Governing Body), the Principal and staff believe that the education of our students is much enhanced by the many opportunities which are offered for activities and excursions out of college, although they may not always be an essential part of any course. The Directors are most grateful to the staff who organise such activities, and recognise that appropriate charges to students who choose to participate must be made. Charges must also be made for certain aspects of some subject courses, so that the level of government funding does not limit opportunities for students.

Students taking designated art subjects (graphics, photography or BTEC fashion or art) that require significant amounts of colour printing, will receive an additional allowance at key points in the year where coursework demands are high.

Please note that these limits are imposed as part of our Sustainability Policy to help reduce our carbon footprint.

The allowance is calculated to cover the typical demands of coursework, homework and other course-imposed printing. It may be that students taking specific combinations of subjects exceed this allowance. In such instances, students may need to buy additional credit or make an application for support from the hardship fund.

Enrichment activities (6Xtra/6Advance) Some of these activities involve external commercial organisations and so a charge has to be made to students.

Such charges are clearly publicised in advance and there are always other, non-chargeable options available at every stage of the year.

The Education Reform Act 1988 requires the Directors to publish their policy in these respects.

Educational visits Several departments organise excursions out of college to supplement and enhance the teaching and learning carried out in the subject. The cost of travel is shared equally by all participating students and is often subsidised. Most of these visits do not involve overnight accommodation, but, for those residential visits that do, an additional charge is made to students for this.

The following is the Statement of the Charging and Remissions Policies of the Governing Body of Blackpool Sixth Form College for 2016/2017.

Students who have difficulty in meeting the expense incurred for educational visits should talk to a member of staff in the Student Finance Office.

Although the Directors believe that parents/carers will support this policy, they must draw parents/carers’ attention to these details, to avoid misunderstanding. The order in which the items are given is that in which students will experience that aspect of college organisation and the particular activity concerned during their course.

Theatre visits Visits to theatres are organised regularly. These are usually evening performances and participation is open to all students.

In the case of productions of set texts, students studying these are strongly advised to attend. Participating students pay the cost of their theatre seats, generally at a discounted rate, and an equal share in the cost of travel.

Students experiencing financial hardship may be able to claim funding from the hardship fund to cover some of the charges listed below. Further details and application forms for support from the hardship fund are available from the Student Finance Office.

Membership card Students are issued with a free membership card and lanyard at the start of term. Students must pay a £10 deposit for a replacement for a lost membership card and lanyard, the deposit is refundable once the membership card or lanyard returned. Students should go to the Student Finance Office to obtain a replacement membership card.

Files, paper and pens Students are expected to provide their own stationery. Paper, pens, files etc. can be purchased from the Blackpool Sixth print room/shop (Re-fill) located in the Brock building.

Printing and photocopying Photocopying is available in the Print Room/shop (Refill) at a cost of 3p per A4 side and 6p per A3 side. Colour photocopying is available at a cost of 10p per A4 and 20p per A3 side.

All students will receive a computer printing quota worth £30, allocated in termly instalments of £10. Printing will be charged at 3p per sheet for black and white A4 printing, 5p for doublesided A4 printing, 20p per side for A4 colour printouts and 40p per side for A3 colour printing. Students who use up their entire quota, in any one term, will need to buy extra credit printing credits can be purchased at the FYi counter or from Re-fill.

FYi (Library and Learning Resource Centre) Library fines are charged at the rate of 5p per item per day for overdue loans, which is less than the current rate in public libraries. The maximum fine per item is £1.50. Nevertheless, no student needs to incur fines, as books can be renewed twice before they must be returned.

Application fees for higher education (UCAS) UCAS (University and Colleges Admissions Service) makes a charge for participation in the scheme and the student pays this at the time of application. The cost is £13 for an application to a single course and £24 for multiple applications of up to 5 courses.

Interviews and open days for higher education and employment In the case of those visits to Open Days which are specifically organised by college, all participating students share the cost of the travel equally and this may be subsidised. Students who choose to attend other Open Days under their own arrangements must meet all the expenses involved.

Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS, formerly CRB Check) Students undertaking work experience with young children or vulnerable adults will need a DBS check to go out on a work placement. The cost of the DBS check is currently £44.

Payment is made when students bring in the completed DBS form and evidence of identity to the Employer Liaison Officer. It is possible to apply for funding from the hardship fund to help with the cost of this.

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College property Students will be charged for any loss or damage caused, whether deliberately or accidentally, to any textbook, iPad or other equipment /property belonging to Blackpool Sixth or to the fabric of the building itself. The amount levied will be either the full cost of replacement or repair, current at the time of the incident, or an appropriate amount, at the discretion of the Vice Principal (Resources).

Willful damage to Blackpool Sixth property would be deemed gross misconduct and may result in a student’s place at Blackpool Sixth being withdrawn and, if appropriate, a formal prosecution.

Financial contributions for specific subjects The following summary gives students advance warning of the required materials and resources for specific subjects.

In some cases, students may be recommended to purchase a textbook or iPad for personal use. However copies will be made available for students to use in lessons if needed.

Students experiencing financial hardship may be able to claim funding from the hardship fund to cover some of the costs listed below. Further details and application forms are available from the Student Finance Office.

Business Studies and IT Business Studies, Computing, Economics, ICT, BTEC IT and BTEC Business Students wishing to purchase a textbook should seek advice from teachers.

NOTE: It is not advisable to purchase books until the course has started, as it is likely that more up to date books will be published in the summer.

Financial Studies Students will be given a textbook covering the contents of the course at the start of the year.

English and Modern Foreign Languages English Literature, English Language, French, German and Spanish These subjects have been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning.

We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences. iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct payment or through a staged payment scheme. The price will include a protective case, 2-year extended warranty, 2 years’ full insurance against damage and theft as well as a number of apps required for your studies (approximate value £20). See our website for details. Please note that Blackpool Sixth has a small pool of iPads that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own.

Full details of the iPad scheme are available in this enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days.

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English Literature Students are required to purchase their own texts.

The examination board recommended texts are: • Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre”: Penguin Classics • Carol Ann Duffy’s “Mean Time": Picador • David Hare’s “Murmuring Judges”: Faber • Philip Larkin’s ‘The Whitsun Weddings’: Faber • Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure: Arden • Shakespeare's The Tempest, either the Longman, Cambridge or Arden editions • Selected poems: John Donne. Penguin Classics English Language Students may wish to purchase the official AQA textbook for English Language “The AQA English Language Student Book”, Oxford University Press.

French, German and Spanish All students are required to pay £10 for the relevant Kerboodle resources Year one Language students are recommended to purchase the official AQA Grammar Workbook for £5.99.

In their second year, all second year students are required to purchase a novel for their chosen language.

Also, French students have the opportunity to participate in an overseas trip to Montpellier. This is not a compulsory part of the course. The approximate cost is £600.

All Spanish students have the opportunity to participate in an overseas trip to Spain at a cost of £500. Again this is not a compulsory part of the course.

All German students have the opportunity to participate in an overseas trip to Germany for an approximate cost of £500. This visit is optional and not a compulsory part of the course.

Humanities Geography Students may wish to purchase their own course textbook for the A level course “Edexcel A Level Geography Book 1 ISBN9781471856549 at an approximate cost of £25. Students will have an opportunity to undertake fieldwork at a local level, which may have a small travel cost attached, and further afield at a cost of approximately £30.

History (Modern/Medieval) Students may wish to purchase their own course textbook for the A level course “The Cold War 1945 - 1991” (Oxford AQA History) ISBN 978-0-19-835461 - 1 at an approximate cost of £20. However, copies of this will be made available in class.

Students may also wish to purchase “AQA Tudors” textbook ISBN 978-1-4718 -3758-6.

History (Classical Civilisation) The course offers the opportunity to participate in a number of optional trips, including: Chester Amphitheatre study visit £15, the UCLan archaeology day £5, the Lowry theatre trip £15, Liverpool University Egyptology day £10 and overseas visit to Athens and Delphi at an approx. cost of £550.

Mathematics Further Mathematics Students must have a scientific calculator: we strongly recommend the CASIO fx-991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20.

Mathematics Mathematics students must have a scientific calculator: we strongly recommend the CASIO fx-991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20.

Statistics Statistics students must have a CASIO graphical calculator fx-9750Gii calculator for the course – approximately £50.

GCSE Mathematics GCSE students must have a calculator for every lesson, the recommended calculator is a CASIO fx-83GT plus – this is available from Blackpool Sixth print room/shop for approximately £6.

It is recommended that students purchase specified texts: further guidance will be given by teachers. The cost of these texts will be no more than £20 - class copies will be available.

There is also a course booklet for the second year modules which students will be expected to print.

Law It is expected that students purchase a textbook for the “AQA Law for A2” ISBN 978-1-4718-0709-1- The cost is £25. Class copies are available for use in the lessons.

There is an overnight trip to London at an approximate cost of £170.

Religion, Ethics and Philosophy No purchases are required for this course. Some students may wish to purchase a textbook, details will be provided by teachers. Class copies are available for use in the lessons.

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Performing Arts, Music and Media Dance and BTEC Performing Arts and Musical Theatre It is compulsory for all students to purchase appropriate black clothing and footwear for taking part in practical work. Appropriate ‘Blackpool Sixth branded’ black clothing is for sale from the Performing Arts, Music and Media department.

Dance In line with professional standards, female students are required to wear black leotard and footless leggings / tights, male students are required to wear black fitted vests and black tracksuit bottoms to all practical classes.

BTEC Creative Media Production This subject has been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning.

We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences. iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct payment or through a staged payment scheme.

The price will include a protective case, 2-year extended warranty, 2-years full insurance against damage and theft as well as a number of apps required for your studies (approximate value £20). See our website for details. Please note that the Blackpool Sixth has a small pool of iPads that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own.

Full details of the iPad scheme are available in this enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days.

Music The music team will be able to recommend various types of headphones during the course induction. Students will also be expected to provide their own instruments, leads, etc, for use in rehearsals, performances and studio recordings.

Students must purchase a copy of the Edexcel “Anthology of Music” approx. £45, ISBN 9781292118369

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Theatre Studies This subject has been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning. We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences. iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct pIt is necessary for all students to purchase a pair of quality headphones to use in private study and recording/sequencing projects throughout the course.

Trips Pre-payment Scheme for Theatre Studies students is a requirement as students need to see a minimum of three live professional performances in order to prepare them for both the practical and written elements of the course. This is set by the examinations board. We request that students pay £75 in the first half term: this will pay for them to attend 3 trips throughout the year. There will also be an opportunity to see more live work throughout the year, and this can be paid on an ad hoc basis at later points in the year. Details of the arranged visits and letters of permission will be published on the college website at the start of the course. By ordering tickets in bulk, we are able to secure significant discounts for students: this pre- payment scheme enables the teacher to secure best value for money for travel and theatre tickets.

Students also require copies of their set texts for the written exam, in which they need to make their own personal annotations. In Year 1 the cost of the text is £4 and in Year 2 the two plays will cost approximately £16.

BTEC Music Performance All students (except drummers and pianists) will be expected to bring their own instrument to college. This includes microphones for singers.

Music Technology Students may wish to purchase the textbook “Edexcel AS/A2 Music Technology Listening Tests, 2nd edition” approx. £21, ISBN 9781906178901 Students may wish to purchase the textbook“Edexcel AS/ A2 Music Technology Study Guide” approx. £17, ISBN 9781906178482 Music Students must purchase a copy of the Edexcel “Anthology of Music” approx. £45, ISBN 9781292118369

Science

Social Science and Health

BTEC Applied Science and BTEC Medical Science There is no requirement to purchase a textbook for Applied Science. Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the CASIO fx-991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20. A 30cm clear ruler and an A4 lever arch file is a requirement of the course.

Psychology There is no requirement to purchase a textbook for Psychology. If you wish to purchase a resource to assist with your studies, the recommended textbook is AQA Psychology for A Level Year 1 & AS by Cara Flanagan, Dave Berry, Matt Jarvis and Rob Liddle (2015).

ISBN: 978-1-908682-40-6.

Biology Students may wish to purchase books such as these to support them in the first year of the course: AQA Biology Glenn Toole and Susan Toole Oxford University Press CGP: A Level Biology Year 1.

Students will need to purchase a 30cm clear ruler and a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the CASIO fx991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20.

Chemistry Students may wish to purchase books such as these to support them in the first year of the course: AQA Chemistry 2nd edition Ted Lister and Janet Renshaw Oxford University Press CGP: A Level Chemistry Year 1 Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the CASIO fx-991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20.

Electronics Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the CASIO fx-991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20. Students also need a 30cm clear ruler and mechanical pencil.

Engineering Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the CASIO fx-991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20. Students also need a 30cm clear ruler, mechanical pencil, protractor set, 60 degree and 45 degree set squares, and an A4 lever arch file. Students are recommended to purchase the following below to support them in the course: Mechanical Engineering: BTEC National Level 3 Engineering Specialist Units approx. £21 ISBN 9780-08-096577-2 There is project work for engineering courses and some of the materials for the mandatory project must be purchased by the students. There may be educational visits involved with the course and some of these may incur a cost to the student.

Physics Students must have a scientific calculator, we strongly recommend the CASIO fx-991ES plus – costs approximately £15 - £20. Students also need a 30cm clear ruler, mechanical pencil, protractor set and 45 degree set square.

Students may wish to purchase books such as these to support them in the first year of the course: AQA Physics Jim Breithaupt Oxford University Press CGP: A Level Physics year 1.

There may be educational visits involved with the course and some of these may incur a cost to the student.

Sociology There is no requirement to purchase a textbook for Sociology. If you wish to purchase a resource to assist with your studies the recommended textbook is AQA A Level Sociology Book 1 by Rob Webb, Hal Westergaard, Keith Trobe and Annie Townend (2015).

ISBN: 978-0-954007- 91-1.

BTEC Health and Social Care (Diploma and Extended Diploma) This subject has been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning.

We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences. iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct payment or through a staged payment scheme.

The price will include a protective case, 2-year extended warranty, 2-years full insurance against damage and theft as well as a number of apps required for your studies (approximate value £20). See our website for details. Please note that Blackpool Sixth has a small pool of iPads that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own. Full details of the iPad scheme are available in this enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days.

Students undertaking work experience with young children or vulnerable adults will need a DBS check to go out on a work placement. The cost of the DBS check is currently £44.00. Payment is made when students bring in the completed DBS form and evidence of identity to the Student Finance Office. Students will also need to purchase a work placement tunic/ polo shirt (approximate cost £18.00), however if students are enrolling onto the cadetship they will be required to purchase their uniform and ID badges through Blackpool Victoria Hospital, the approximate cost of this is £45.00.

There is no requirement to purchase a textbook for Health and Social Care. If you wish to purchase a resource to assist with your Health and Social Care Diploma, the recommended textbook is Health and Social Care Level 3 BTEC Nationals (Book 1). ISBN: 978-1-846907-46-3. If you are studying the Health and Social Care Extended Diploma, in addition to the above textbook, another recommended textbook is Health and Social Care Level 3 BTEC Nationals (Book 2). ISBN: 978-1- 846907-47-0.

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Sport, Tourism and Public Services Physical Education A textbook for each year will be recommended by the teachers, once the course has commenced. It will not be essential to purchase these as teachers will provide essential resources/ sources of information to support the course.

Students will be encouraged to purchase a Blackpool Sixth sports kit to be worn during practical sessions. The approximate cost is £20.

BTEC Public Services This subject has been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning. We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences. iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct payment or through a staged payment scheme. The price will include a protective case, 2-year extended warranty, 2-years full insurance against damage and theft as well as a number of apps required for your studies (approximate value £20). See our website for details.

Please note that the Blackpool Sixth has a small pool of iPads that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own.

Full details of the iPad scheme are available in this enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days.

There will be educational visits, possibly residential, involved with the course. Some of these will be funded by the specific uniformed service. Others visits will be funded by the students. An approximate cost for these will be £150 over the two years of the course.

Students will be encouraged to purchase a Blackpool Sixth sports kit to be worn during practical sessions, approximate cost £20.

As part of any voluntary work, students working with young children or vulnerable adults will need a DBS check. The cost of the DBS check is currently £44. Payment is made when students bring in the completed DBS form and evidence of identity.

BTEC Sport & Exercise Science This subject has been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning. We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences. iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct payment or through a staged payment scheme. The price will include a protective case, 2-year extended warranty, 2-years full insurance against damage and theft as well as a number of apps required for your studies (approximate value £20). See our website for details.

Please note that the Blackpool Sixth has a small pool of iPads that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own.

Full details of the iPad scheme are available in this enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days.

It is recommended that students studying BTEC Sport and Exercise Sciences purchase one comprehensive textbook to support assignment work. Subject teachers recommend the following textbook: BTEC Level 3 National Sport and Exercise Sciences Student book - £25.99. There is no need to purchase this before the start of the course.

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A range of other textbooks and other relevant publications are available in the FYi or departmental resource area. Subscription to appropriate periodicals is also available through the department.

There are day visits included as part of the course in which students are encouraged to participate. These may incur a cost to cover transport and entrance to the visited organisation. In total these will be approximately £75.

Students undertaking work experience with young children or vulnerable adults will need a DBS check to go out on a work placement. The cost of the DBS check is currently £44.

Payment is made when students bring in the completed DBS form and evidence of identity to Student Services.

Students will be encouraged to purchase a Blackpool Sixth sports kit to be worn during practical sessions, approximate cost £20.

BTEC Sport (Sports Performance & Excellence) (Diploma and Extended Diploma) This subject has been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning. We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences. iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct payment or through a staged payment scheme. The price will include a protective case, 2-year extended warranty, 2-years full insurance against damage and theft as well as a number of apps required for your studies (approximate value £20). See our website for details. Please note that the Blackpool Sixth has a small pool of iPads that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own.

Full details of the iPad scheme are available in this enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days.

It is recommended that students studying BTEC Sport (Sports Performance & Excellence) purchase one comprehensive textbook to support assignment work. Subject teachers recommend the following textbook: BTEC National Sport Student Book (Heinemann £21.99) There is no need to purchase this before the start of the course.

A range of other textbooks and other relevant publications are available in the FYi or departmental resource area. Subscription to appropriate periodicals is also available through the department.

There are day visits included as part of the course that students are encouraged to participate in. These may incur a cost to cover transport and entrance to the visited organisation. In total these will be approximately £75.00.

Students undertaking work experience with young children or vulnerable adults will need a DBS check to go out on a work placement. The cost of the DBS check is currently £44.

Payment is made when students bring in the completed DBS form and evidence of identity to Student Services.

Students will be encouraged to purchase a Blackpool Sixth sports kit to be worn during practical sessions, approximate cost £20.

BTEC Travel & Tourism (Diploma and Extended Diploma) This subject has been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative scheme to transform teaching and learning. We are asking students to purchase an iPad. The delivery and content of the course will be tailored so that the iPad is used within the lessons to take notes, write coursework, collaborate with their peers and to engage in all sorts of innovative online learning experiences.

iPads can be purchased through the college either as a direct payment or through a staged payment scheme. The price will include a protective case, 2-year extended warranty, 2-years full insurance against damage and theft as well as a number of apps required for your studies (approximate value £20). See our website for details. Please note that the Blackpool Sixth has a small pool of iPads that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own.

Full details of the iPad scheme are available in this enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days.

There will be the option to participate in a residential visit in both year 1 and 2. The approximate cost of this in each year will be £400.

There are a range of other day visits included as part of the course in which students are encouraged to participate. These may incur a cost to cover transport and entrance to the visited organisation. In total these will be approximately £75.

Students are also recommended to purchase the core text book, “BTEC National Travel and Tourism Book 1” approximately £ 25, ISBN 0-435445-88-1. There is no need to purchase this before the start of the course.

Students undertaking work experience with young children or vulnerable adults will need a DBS check to go out on a work placement. The cost of the DBS check is currently £44. Payment is made when students bring in the completed DBS form and evidence of identity to Student Services.

Visual Arts Art All students are required to buy essential basic equipment at the start of their studies. This is to ensure they have the essential items they will need in order to complete homework tasks. A basic art pack of materials will be available at our college shop and will cost approximately £10.00. Some students may need to buy additional materials to expand their ideas and this may create extra costs. Art materials are available for sale in the college shop (Re-fill) at very competitive prices.

Textiles and Fashion A basic practical garment construction pack will be available at a cost of £30.00. All students are required to buy this at the start of their studies. This pack will supply the essential items they will need in order to complete homework and classroom tasks. Some students may need to buy additional materials to expand their ideas and this may create extra costs. Art and textiles materials are available for sale in the college shop (Re-fill) at very competitive prices.

Graphic Design and Digital Photography All students are required to buy an SD Memory Card, a 1GB memory USB Stick, and a memory card reader. Approximate cost for the materials is £10. Students will incur additional costs throughout the course. Photographs and digital printouts must be documented in print format. Students can buy art materials from Re-fill at very competitive prices.

NOTE: Again, students are reminded that if they are experiencing financial hardship they may be able to claim funding from the hardship fund to cover some of the costs listed above. Further details and application forms are available from the Student Finance Office.

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