Essential Information 2018/19

Blackpool Sixth

Essential Information 2018 - 2019

www.blackpoolsixth.ac.uk

Summary of contents Welcome to Blackpool Sixth Our mission and core values Important dates for 2018 - 2019 Study programmes and entry requirements Academic Support Tutorials (ASTs) Directed Study Time (DST) Study day Communication with parents/carers Membership cards The Blackpool Sixth day Reception Equality and diversity Acceptable use of computers Attendance and punctuality Term time holidays or requests for special leave Absence procedures Long-term sickness Safeguarding and confidentiality Change of circumstances Safety and first aid Pastoral care Additional support for students Minimum Target Grades (MTG) Changing a subject External and mock examinations Route 3 programme and progression to lower sixth FYi – The learning resource centre Student Services, financial support and transport support Careers education, information, advice and guidance Work experience placements The Excellence Programme Excellence programme enrichment (6Advance) Enrichment programme (6Xtra) The college environment 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

Our mission and core values

Introduction

Inspiring learning, developing character, building futures

2018 - 2019

Our mission:

The 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 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.

Our Blackpool Sixth Expects document gives guidance on what is expected of students in terms of their 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 students with an environment that helps them to make a smooth and confident transition onto their next step, whether this is​university, employment with training​, an apprenticeship​or other plan to support their future career.

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 terms 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.

Please note: The information given in this handbook was accurate at the time of going to press in June 2018 but may, of course, be superseded in some respects during the academic year 2018/2019.

Important dates for 2018 - 2019 23rd & 24th August 3rd September 4th September 5th September 26th September 22nd October to 2nd November

Half term (college closed to students & public)

20th December

Students finish for Christmas

7th January

College opens for spring term

10th – 16th January

Upper Sixth/GCSE formal mock exam week

4th February

Progress Review Days (student surname A-K)

5th February

Progress Review Days (student surname L-Z)

18th - 22nd February

Half term (college closed to students & public)

5th March

Preparing for University Evening for upper sixth parents/carers Staff Learning and Development Day (no students in college) Building Futures Evening for Lower Sixth parents/carers Students finish for Easter College opens for summer term Formal assessment week for Lower Sixth May Day Bank Holiday Half term Students start 5 day timetable (no study days) Students finish for summer

20th March 20th March

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.

Jill Gray Principal

Enrolment for new students Upper Sixth Building Futures Day Induction Day 1 for Lower Sixth and Route3 students Induction Day 2 for Lower Sixth and Route3 students Welcome Evening for all new students and their parents/carers

5th April 23rd April 29th April to 3rd May 6th May 27th May - 31st May 3rd June 2nd July

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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 Life Links 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) • English and mathematics GCSE studies (where grade C/4 has not yet been achieved) In addition, study programmes may also include: • Additional qualifications (e.g. Community Sports Leaders Award) • Work placements or volunteering placements (an essential part for students progressing to routes other than higher education (HE), progressing to HE courses that require work placement and for students on the Route 3 programme) • The Excellence Programme • 6Advance

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 2 GCSEs at grade 5 (B) and 3 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) in 5 different academic GCSEs, in most cases including both maths and English.

Some courses have specific requirements - see the prospectus or website for details.

BTEC Programme BTEC Level 3 Triple or BTEC Level 3 Double plus single BTEC. The programme may also include GCSE English/Maths, where required.

Students generally require 5 GCSE passes of grade 4 (C) or above (or equivalent), including at least one of English language* or maths. Some courses have specific requirements - see the prospectus or website for details.

Combined Programme A combination of A level and BTEC courses adding up to the equivalent of three single courses.

As BTEC Programme requirements (above) plus meeting the subject entry requirements for the A level. Some courses have specific requirements - see the prospectus or website for details.

Route3 Programme First year: GCSE English and/or maths plus a choice of one of the following: BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Creative Digital Media (double) or BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Public Services (double) Or BTEC Level 2 Award in Business (single) and BTEC Level 2 Award in IT (single). Alternatively a Workskills qualification can replace one of these BTEC certificates.

If students already have a grade 4 at GCSE in English or Maths, then a Workskills qualification will be included in their study programme.

A minimum of four grade 3s (D) at GCSE (or equivalent) are required to begin the Route 3 programme with GCSE Maths and English grades of at least 2 (E), unless exceptional circumstances apply.

Second and third years: Students will follow one of the Level 3 study programmes outlined above - in most cases the BTEC or Combined programmes.

This is a three year programme for students who don’t have 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above at enrolment. *English literature at grade 4 (C) can be substituted for English language depending upon future HE / career aims, however college encourages a resit in English language where a grade 4 has not yet been attained.

Academic Support Tutorials (ASTs) Each department is allocated time each week to provide extra support for students, called academic support tutorial (AST) time. ASTs will be provided to support students in a variety of ways, including revisiting previously taught material, developing study skills and working towards achieving high grades. Wherever possible, ASTs will take place within the core day, for example at lunchtime, but may also be scheduled to begin after session 6 or on a student’s study day.

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Directed Study Time (DST)

Communication with parents/carers

Students should expect to spend at least four hours on independent study every week for each of their subjects. Directed Study Time (DST) gives students the opportunity to work independently towards achieving this 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:

At Blackpool Sixth we recognise the commitment parents and carers make in supporting their daughter/son/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.

• preparation work for future lessons • wider reading • research tasks • peer assessment of a partner’s classwork • correcting mistakes from a ‘model’ answer written badly • devising concept maps to summarise their learning • completion of homework or assignments • coursework assignment work Pastoral Mentors will help students to make effective use of their independent study time and support students to complete work and meet deadlines.

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 Newsletter Parents/carers will receive a 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, Instagram and Facebook accounts.

Parent portal The parent portal is an online tool giving parents/carers direct access to their daughter/son/ward’s up-to-date attendance and progress data. Information about how to access 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 in the early part of term.

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.

Study Day The study day is designed to give students blocks of time for concentrated study. The study day is part of a student’s commitment to college and they must be ready to come into college if required to do so. Students are usually allowed to work at home, however, if they wish or if directed they can use the college’s study areas such as the FYi and other facilities on this day.

Teachers will 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. Equally, teachers may require students to attend academic support tutorials (ASTs) on their study day. In addition, students should use the study day to gain work experience or participate in other work-related learning organised by the college.

Therefore, students should not organise regular commitments that are not flexible on their study day (e.g. part time work).

We see the study day as a vital part of the college week: it is definitely not a “day off”.

From Monday 3rd June until Tuesday 2nd July, lower sixth students will start the second year of their courses and the timetable will change to a 5 day week (no study day).

Academic monitoring reports These reports will be sent to parents/carers in December, February, April and June. The reports will include latest predicted grades in each subject. The final report in June will include written comments by subject teachers.

Other communication with parents/carers Parents/carers are welcome to enquire at any time about their daughter/son/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, teachers 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, wellbeing, 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 Support if they do not wish college to contact their parents/carers.

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Membership cards

Equality and diversity

Access to Blackpool Sixth is via a number of access controlled entrances operated by student 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.

Blackpool Sixth is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment and study. The college is opposed to all forms of discrimination inline with the Public Sector Equality Duty 2011 and as defined by the Equality Act 2010, whether direct, perceived, indirect or by association.

Students who forget to bring their membership card to college will be asked to report to Reception. They will be issued with a temporary membership sticker for the day.

Promoting, celebrating and valuing diversity and ensuring equality are at the heart of the college’s core values, and will benefit the college in all aspects of its members’ performance. These encompass the British values of mutual respect for and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and for those without faith, the rule of law, individual liberty and democracy.

Students must pay a £2 fee for a replacement for a lost membership card and lanyard. Replacement cards can be obtained from the Student Finance Office.

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

Students who persistently forget or lose their membership card will face disciplinary action and may be required to pay a £10 deposit for a replacement card and lanyard, the deposit is refundable once the membership card or lanyard is returned.

The college seeks to ensure that no individual or group, because of their protected characteristic, faces discrimination, harassment or victimisation.

Protected characteristics refer to: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.

The college will take very seriously any instances of noncompliance to the college’s equality and diversity policy by staff, students or other members of the college community. All instances will be investigated and appropriate disciplinary action taken against the student or staff member. Students should report any bullying or harassment to their Pastoral Mentor, a member of staff in whom they feel they can confide or a member of the Senior Leadership Team, who will take appropriate action.

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 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.

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.

Reception Reception is located on the ground floor of the main building and is staffed from 8.15am to 5.00pm on Monday to Thursday and 8.15am to 4.30pm on Friday. Enquiries can be directed to reception in person, or by telephone, using the main Blackpool Sixth number 01253 394911.

The filtering of internet content provides an important means of preventing users from accessing material that is illegal or is inappropriate in an educational context. No filtering system can guarantee 100% protection against access to unsuitable sites, therefore, members of the safeguarding team monitor safe internet usage daily using log file reports.

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. Poor attendance and punctuality could lead to disciplinary action in line with the attendance policy and the Positive behaviour policy and disciplinary procedures.

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 or requests for special leave Blackpool Sixth expects students’ college work to take priority and other activities should be arranged outside of their college commitments. I​ ​t is recognised that there​may be very rare occasions​​where a student may require leave of absence from college due to extenuating circumstances. ​Please refer to the college’s​​Special Leave Policy, 06 available on https://blackpoolsixth.ac.uk/policies.

Absence procedures At Blackpool Sixth we expect students to let their pastoral mentor and subject teachers know in advance if they are going to be absent from classes due to a scheduled appointment.

For unforeseen absences, we expect students, or their parent/carer, on the first day of absence to email the student’s pastoral mentor or telephone 01253 394911 before 09.15am. Communication must include the student’s full name, a brief reason for absence and expected return date. Students should also email their subject teachers to get details of any work missed.

In normal circumstances during a period of absence we expect students to maintain daily email contact with their pastoral mentor and subject teachers to ensure the student is able to maintain learning. If the student or parent/carer does not maintain contact, they can expect to receive a phone call from the college.

Authorised absences – if Blackpool Sixth is notified in advance • A hospital appointment • An orthodontist appointment • Visit to university to attend an open day/interview; a career related interview or audition • Attendance at court or an appointment with a legal adviser • Practical driving test (An appointment card or appointment letter must be presented to he student’s Pastoral Mentor for all of the above).

Note: Routine medical appointments (e.g. doctor, optician, physiotherapist 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 in term time.

• Part or full-time work that is not part of the student’s programme of study • Routine medical appointments that can be arranged outside of college commitments • Birthdays or similar celebrations • Babysitting younger siblings • Driving lessons • Driving Theory Test Whatever the reason for absence, it is the student’s responsibility to complete work missed as quickly as possible. Staff will support individuals following a period of absence to help students to get back on track. However, if students do not take active steps to catch up on missed work, they may face disciplinary action.

Students who feel unwell whilst in college should report to The Link or the Focus Centre where they will be asked to sit quietly whilst members of staff contact parent(s)/carer(s) to decide whether or not it is appropriate to let them go home. If symptoms persist and students are permitted leave, they will be marked absent for any sessions missed. Students who go home ill without reporting to The Link or the Focus Centre will be marked as an unknown absence and may face disciplinary action.

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

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

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Long-term sickness The college will make reasonable adjustments to support a student to maintain learning during periods of long-term sickness or medical conditions through the Fitness to Study procedures.

Safeguarding and confidentiality Blackpool Sixth is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all students, 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.

A student can talk to any member of staff if they have any concerns about their safety/wellbeing or the safety/wellbeing of others.

If anybody else has any concerns about any safeguarding issues, please speak with or contact any member of staff.

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

The safeguarding and child protection policy is available in the downloads section of the college website.

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 Focus Centre or the Student Finance Office, who will offer practical support and advice. There may also be additional financial support for students in this position.

Change of circumstances

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

Safety and first aid 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 who are feeling unwell may seek assistance from any member of staff or from The Link or the Focus Centre. A first aider will be called to attend to them if necessary. Parents/carers will be contacted if a student is too ill to remain in college. In this situation we expect parents/carers to make appropriate arrangements to transport the student home safely or to meet the student at the hospital if a first aider has decided that further medical treatment is needed.

Pastoral care

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.

Minimum Target Grades (MTG)

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 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 exceed their MTG. We refer to MTGs in Academic Monitoring Reports which are sent to parents/ carers in December, February, April and June. Either side of these dates each student’s performance is regularly monitored and, where progress appears to be falling below minimum expectations, students may be directed to attend academic support tutorials (ASTs) and receive extra support from their teachers, pastoral mentor or member of the additional learning support team.

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 from Monday 17th September to Friday 28th September. Any student who has concerns about their programme of study course choices should speak to their pastoral mentor.

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

External and mock examinations

Every student is a member of a pastoral mentor group.

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

A Levels • For the majority of A Level subjects, students will be required to sit external examinations during May and June of their final year of study.

• Art, textiles, photography, graphics and fine art practical examinations take place between March and May of the final year of study.

• Modern foreign language oral examinations also take place between March and May of the final year of study.

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, to develop essential life skills and to promote healthy and safe lifestyle choices. It also helps students to acquire a greater awareness of social and economic-related issues.

External examinations

GCSEs Students who continue to study towards GCSE English and mathematics qualifications will sit external examinations in the November exam window or the summer exam season depending on progress. events.

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

Level 2 and Level 3 BTECs A small number of BTEC qualifications incorporate an external examination element. The relevant department will choose the exam window which best fits their teaching schedule.

Additional support for students

Students are provided with individual examination timetables by email in advance of the relevant exam season. Students and parents are also able to view exam timetables in both the student and parent portals.

Blackpool Sixth provides support for students who have special educational needs and/or disabilities. 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.

The Additional Learning Support (ALS) team are based in the Focus Centre at college and students are welcome to speak to a member of the team if they have any concerns.

If a parent/carer 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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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 is likely to mean a student has to remain supervised and in isolation during the day and will be advised to bring food and drink for lunch periods spent under supervision. Students will be individually notified if they are affected.

Electronic communication/storage devices including mobile phones are not permitted in examination venues and disqualification is a risk if a student is found to be in possession of unauthorised items or materials.

Students are also required to remove their watches prior to entering the examination rooms. A clock is provided in the examination room.

For both external and internal examination days, students must be wearing their Membership Card in order to enter examination venues.

Students are also expected to attend examinations with appropriate resources such as black pens, pencils, rulers and calculators if appropriate, as the college does not routinely provide this equipment.

The resources required are listed on individual examination timetables issued to students prior to the examination events.

Mock examinations and formal assessments

A level students will sit mock examinations in the 2nd year of study and they are traditionally scheduled in January.

Students studying GCSE English and mathematics also sit mock examinations at the same time. The mock examinations are organised and delivered to a high level of rigor to mirror the summer external exam season. Students will have only one opportunity to sit mock exams and an “X” grade will be used for any students who are absent from mock examinations. 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.

For A level students in their first year of study the college holds a classroom-based formal assessment period during the spring term (usually April) to assess progress.

Examination and non-examination assessment appeals

Coursework marks Students will be informed of their coursework marks prior to them being submitted to the awarding bodies. Whilst the college is very confident in the robustness of its internal marking processes, it fulfils its duty to provide access to an appeals process. This internal service attracts a financial cost of £50 per appeal. More detailed information is available on request from the Examinations office.

Post Results Services Awarding Bodies provide students with opportunities to submit applications for enquiries about results (clerical checks and reviews of marking) and access to scripts (photocopies or originals). These external services are available for a short period from results release and attract a financial cost. More detailed information is available from the Examinations office.

Route 3 programme and progression to lower sixth Students studying on the Route 3 programme will need to demonstrate satisfactory attendance and commitment during their first year at college, and should meet the entry requirements for the level 3 courses that they have applied for, or at least have passed the courses on their Route 3 programme, in order to progress to lower sixth.

Examination study leave

Short periods of study leave are allocated 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.

Study leave is not allocated for practical examinations.

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 programme of study at Blackpool Sixth. Email reminders are sent but the college can only retain the certificates for a limited period before returning them to Awarding Bodies. It is important to inform the college of changes to personal contact details so as students can be informed of when certificates are available for collection. When collecting certificates former students or their parents/carers are required to first sign in as visitors at reception.

Overseas students can make a payment for certificates to be sent by recorded delivery to their home address once they are available. The Examinations Office can provide further information on request.

BTEC coursework will be retained in college when a programme of study is complete and cannot be released to students until late November after certification. Any coursework that has not been collected by the following February half term will be destroyed appropriately.

FYi – The learning resource centre FYi (For Your Information) is the name given to our fully equipped Learning Resource Centre. The state-of-the-art facilities have been carefully designed to aid students’ learning. The FYi is a 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, over 120 open access Apple Mac computers, laptops, and the centre also provides access to university-style databases for both students and staff.

FYi Study Advisors support students’ learning by helping them to find and use information so they become independent learners ready for life after college. They can also assist with developing study skills throughout the year covering areas like organisation, exam techniques, time management, revisions skills and stress busting.

This service is designed to enhance the support given by the pastoral mentors as part of the tutorial curriculum.

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.

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Student Services, financial support and transport support

There are 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 – contact the student’s Pastoral Mentor or a member of the Additional Learning Support team 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 Futures Team in Cafe+ Safeguarding/welfare concerns – talk to any member of staff Further details about how to access the support available will be given to students during their first few weeks at college.

Transport support

Blackpool Sixth recognises that the cost of transport is a concern for some young people and their families. Our subsidised transport schemes not only help with transport costs to and from college but may also provide unlimited travel throughout the day, including evenings, weekends and during the college holidays.

Students can purchase subsidised travel passes from the Student Finance Office at a significantly reduced price.

The college provides a free service covering Lytham St. Annes, Kirkham, Freckleton, Warton, Wrea Green, Wesham, Elswick and Great Eccleston.

See the college website for more information about subsidised transport or contact a member staff in the Student Finance Office on 01253 394911.

Lockers

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. Combination locks are issued at the Student Finance Office.

Financial Support

There are 4 types of financial support available to students.

Blackpool Sixth also offer bursaries to eligible students that covers the cost of a subsidised travel pass. The types of financial support available to students are: Guaranteed Bursary with travel and free meals – to the value of £1,250 per year including travel pass plus free meals of £3.01 a day for students in most need Discretionary Bursary with travel and free meals – o the value of £750 per year including travel pass plus free meals of £3.01 a day for students who meet the free meal criteria Discretionary Bursary with travel but without free meals – to the value of £750 per year including travel pass for students who don’t meet the free meal criteria but whose parents receive working tax credit and whose household income is less than £16,190 or receive universal credit with net earnings less than £14,280.

Access Fund which is an emergency fund for students who experience short-term financial hardship and who are struggling to meet the 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 college website for more information about the financial support or contact a member staff in the Student Finance Office on 01253 394911.

Access Fund

The purpose of the Access Fund is to financially support students who are experiencing short-term difficulty in 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 students or their family are experiencing financial hardship, students may be entitled to financial help from the college.

Further details 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 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 training providers and local and national employers.

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 with a career intention of an apprenticeship, employment with training or taking any alternative route to Higher Education, and those on the Route 3 programme must organise, undertake and evaluate a work placement as an integral part of their study programme. This requirement for work placement also applies to students aiming to progress to a particular Higher Education course or profession that requires work placement.

Students are encouraged to arrange their own placements but they need to contact the Work Placement 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.

The Work Placement Officer, can offer assistance to source a suitable placement and students can book an appointment to discuss their particular needs.

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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 an average GCSE score of 7.0 or above 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

Excellence programme 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.

The college is well served by public transport with bus stops directly outside college. The Layton train station is a 15 minute walk away.

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.

Limited parking is available for students. To limit congestion and to reduce the impact on our neighbours, students are encouraged to make use of alternative transport.

There is currently a FREE Parking Permit scheme in use at Blackpool Sixth. Permits are available following a new driver induction with the Estates team. The induction which takes around 15 minutes and are held twice a week explains the policy for parking at the college. Permits must be displayed at all times when parking on college grounds.

Please note: although there is a 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.

To avoid congestion at peak times parents/carers picking up students are asked not to enter the college site or to park close to the car park entrance.

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.

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 students are encouraged to take part in some enrichment whilst at college. Some enrichment will take place during pastoral mentor (Life Links) sessions. There will also be sports teams, academies and many clubs and societies to choose from.

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. Pastoral mentors will give further details during induction.

Catering facilities

High quality meals and snacks are available from Cafe+, CafĂŠ Six, Relish and Starbucks throughout the college day.

There are also a number of coin operated vending machines around campus. All meals are freshly cooked on campus and are competitively priced.

Blackpool Sixth are committed to promoting healthy eating so a range of healthy, vegetarian and vegan options are available from all outlets. Special dietary requirements can be catered for if notice is given. Allergen information is available at each outlet.

Students can pay by cash, card or online. Students wishing to pay online can register for an online account at anytime.

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.

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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 The use of nicotine by young people is unsafe, it can cause addiction and can harm the developing adolescent brain - there are no benefits young people in using e-cigarettes. There is concern that e-cigarettes are seen as ‘safe’ but this is not the case, while the health risks of e-cigarettes are significantly lower than cigarettes they are not without risk. In view of this, the use of e-cigarettes is not permitted in college buildings nor on the college site, except in the designated smoking area. For smokers who want to quit, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (such as patches or gum), along with behavioural support from a healthcare professional, is known to be the most effective form of support.

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.

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.

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.

Compliments, concerns and complaints We want all students to be very happy at Blackpool Sixth; it is a very pleasant and friendly environment in which to learn. If you have a concern or complaint then please follow the procedure below.

Please do not to use social media to air a grievance as this does not give us an opportunity to respond.

A concern or complaint 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.

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.

Disciplinary procedures Blackpool Sixth expects all members of college to: act according to the core values and expectations (see the Blackpool Sixth Expects document) 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, failure to meet 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.

Staff will always aim to resolve any concerns at an early stage, informally, through early intervention and support.

However, there are times when formal disciplinary action will be necessary. Normally the disciplinary action will be escalated in the order set out below.

• Informal warning • Verbal warning • First Formal warning • Second formal warning • Formal disciplinary hearing • Final warning • Suspension/Permanent exclusion Some offences are severe enough to move directly to a formal written warning or in serious cases to a final warning or permanent exclusion.

A student has the right to appeal against permanent exclusion. Appeals must be made in writing to the Deputy Principal within five working days of notification of the outcome.

Full details of the the positive behaviour policy and disciplinary procedures. are available in the policies sections of the college website.

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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 in the policies section.

Charges to students for college activities The following is the Statement of the Charging and Remissions Policy of the Governing Body of The Blackpool Sixth Form College as detailed in the Financial Procedures of the college.

The Directors, the Principal and the 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. Although the Directors believe that parents/carers will support this policy, they must draw parents/ carers’ attention to these details to avoid misunderstanding.

Students experiencing financial hardship may be able to claim funding from the Access Fund to cover some of the charges listed below. Further details and application forms for support from the Access 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 £2 fee for a replacement for a lost membership card and lanyard. Students who persistently forget or lose their membership card may be required to pay a £10 deposit for a replacement card and lanyard, the deposit is refundable once the membership card or lanyard has been returned.

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 (Refill) 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 20p per A4 and 40p 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 double- sided 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 Refill.

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 Access Fund.

Students are able to make use of services in the print room, which is known as Refill. Here, high quality photo printing is available, along with while-you-wait photocopying so that students and staff are able to have their smaller copying and print jobs completed whilst they wait at the desk.

The cost for glossy printing is £2 for A3 glossy and matte photo prints, £1 for A4 glossy, matte, acetate and transfer paper photo prints, 40p for glossy prints and 30p for 6x4 glossy prints.

Refill also offers a stationery shop where students are able to purchase any stationery that they may require for their studies. Art, textiles and media supplies are also available as well as a laminating and binding service for final coursework. Refill is a cash only service and offers very low cost quality items and is usually a far cheaper alternative to purchasing stationery and other supplies elsewhere.

Refill is open 5 days a week from 8:15 am to 3:45 pm.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 £18 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 or interviews under their own arrangements must meet all the expenses involved.

Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS, formerly CRB Check) Students undertaking work placement 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 Work Placement Officer. It is possible to apply for funding from the Access Fund to help with the cost of this.

Payment is made when students bring in the completed DBS form and evidence of identity to the Work Experience Officer. It is possible to apply for 13 funding from the Access Fund to help with the cost of this.

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, iPad or other device for personal use. However, loan 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 Access Fund to cover some of the costs listed below. Further details and application forms are available from the Student Finance Office.

Technology for learning programme Some subjects have been chosen to take part in an exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. We are asking students to provide their own device (e.g. Laptop, Chromebook or iPad) to access and interact with online tasks and resources. The device will be used both in and out of class to create a more modern form of teaching and learning.

The subjects in the programme are; BTEC business, English literature, English language, French, Spanish, drama and theatre studies, psychology, sociology, BTEC health & social care, BTEC public services, BTEC sport & exercise science, BTEC sport (performance & excellence), BTEC travel & tourism.

Students should provide or purchase a device with a minimum 7inch screen and enough storage space to be able to download and interact with materials. Devices also need to be compatible with ‘Google Apps’. Blackpool Sixth also has a small pool of devices that it can loan to students who cannot afford to purchase one of their own. Please note, however, that there will be a charge made to cover insurance and wear for our loan devices.

Advice on what device is most suited to to the subject can be found on www.blackpoolsixth.ac.uk/TFL. There will also be lots of advice available in the enrolment pack and at the new student enrolment days. Students are expected to have the device in place (whether bringing an existing device, purchasing new or loaning) by mid-September.

English and Modern Foreign Languages A Level English Literature, English Language These subjects have been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

Business Studies and IT

A Level English literature Students are required to purchase their own texts. The examination board required texts are:

BTEC Business This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

• A Room with a View, EM Forster: Penguin Classics • Carol Ann Duffy’s “Mean Time”: Picador • Philip Larkin’s ‘The Whitsun Weddings’: Faber • Shakespeare’s The Tempest: we recommend the Oxford • • • • • School Shakespeare edition • Selected poems: John Donne. Penguin Classics

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.

A Level English language Students may wish to purchase the official AQA textbook for English language “The AQA English Language Student Book”, Oxford University Press.

A Level Business studies, computing, economics and BTEC IT 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.

A Level French and Spanish All students are required to pay £10 for the relevant Kerboodle resources Year one modern foreign language (MFL) students are recommended to purchase the official AQA Grammar Workbook for £5.99.

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

Also, MFL students may have the opportunity to participate in an overseas trip. This is not a compulsory 14 part of the course and will be dependent on numbers.

Humanities

Mathematics

A Level 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.

A Level Mathematics Mathematics students must have a scientific calculator with access to Binomial Tables. The minimum calculator is the CASIO Classwiz FX-991EX – costs approximately £20 - £25.

A Level History (Modern/Medieval) Students may wish to purchase their own course textbooks for the A level course: “The Cold War 1945 - 1991” (Oxford AQA History) ISBN 978-0-19-835461 - 1 and “AQA Tudors” textbook ISBN 978-1-4718 -3758-6. Each textbook is approximately £20 - £25. However, copies of these will be made available in class.

A Level Further Mathematics Students must have a scientific calculator with access to Binomial Tables. The minimum calculator is the CASIO Classwiz FX-991EX – costs approximately £20 - £25. If students are looking at studying maths at higher education, a CASIO FX-CG50 would be preferable but not essential cost approximately £100. It aids with a few A level units and will be suitable for any maths-rich degree.

Students may also wish to purchase the Hodder revision guides for each examined module at a cost of £10 each.

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

A Level Ancient 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.

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 (Refill) for approximately £6.

It is recommended that students purchase specified texts: further guidance will be given by teachers at the start of the course. The cost of these texts will be approximately £30 to cover both years. Copies will be available for use in class. For each module a course booklet will require printing.

A Level Law Textbooks can be purchased for £25.99 - OCR AS/A Level Law Book 1 by Jacqueline Martin and Nicholas Price. Book 2 will be released later in the year. Purchase of these textbooks is optional and notes are accessible via Google Drive. In addition, there is an opportunity to take part in an overnight trip to London at an approximate cost of £120.

A Level 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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Science

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-85G – costs approximately £8 - £10. A 30cm clear ruler and an A4 lever arch file are a requirement of the course.

Performing Arts, Music and Media BTEC Dance and BTEC Performing Arts and BTEC Musical Theatre It is compulsory for all students to purchase appropriate black clothing and footwear for taking part in practical work.

BTEC 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.

A Level Biology It is not be essential to purchase a textbook as teachers will provide essential resources/ sources of information to support the course.

The textbook recommended is 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 recommend the Casio fx-85G (approximately £8 £10).

A Level Chemistry It is strongly recommended that students purchase the following textbook to support the practical component of the course (approximately £10): AQA A-level Chemistry Student Guide: Practical Chemistry by Nora Henry.

BTEC Film and Television Production Students are required to purchase an SD card to capture and store their footage. This should be a class 10 card and at least 64gb of storage space.

An online textbook is available for this course through Ebook Central via the college, as such, it is not be essential to purchase an additional textbook. Students will be provided with essential resources / sources of information to support the course. The textbook recommended if students wish to purchase a one is: AQA Chemistry 2nd edition Student book by Ted Lister and Janet Renshaw OUP

Students will require a pair of ear/headphones for use during editing sessions. There is no requirement to purchase any camera equipment or software, however some past students have done so. Your subject teacher will be able to advise you on this during enrolment/induction if this applies to you.

Students must have a scientific calculator, the Casio fx-85G (approximately £8 - £10) is recommended (you do not need to purchase a separate calculator if you have purchased one for maths).

A Level Drama and theatre studies This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

Students will need to purchase two plays for their studies.

Details of texts will be provided at enrolment and total cost will be around £14 - funds are available to any students who may struggle to purchase these texts.

A Level 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.

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

A-level Music Technology The following two textbooks are not essential for the course, but students may choose to purchase them for additional study if they wish: “Edexcel AS/A2 Music Technology Listening Tests, 2nd edition” approx. £21, ISBN 9781906178901 “Edexcel AS/A2 Music Technology Study Guide” approx. £17, ISBN 9781906178482 A-level Music Technology Students will need a copy of the “Edexcel AS/A Level Anthology of Music”, approx. £45, ISBN: 9781292118369. There is financial support available through the college Access Fund, if required.

A Level 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 a mechanical pencil.

BTEC 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, a mechanical pencil, a protractor set, 60 degree and 45 degree set squares, and an A4 lever arch file.

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

A Level Physics Students must have a scientific calculator. If you are taking A Level Maths, the calculator recommended by the maths department is suitable for use in A Level Physics. If you are not taking A Level Maths, a standard scientific calculator (eg. Casio fx-85G, costs approximately £8) is perfectly capable for the demands of the A Level Physics course.

Students also need a 30cm clear ruler, a protractor and a 45 degree set square. The following textbook is highly recommended, as it closely follows the structure and content of the course: AQA Physics, A Level Year 1 and AS (Jim Breithaupt, 2nd Edition, Oxford University Press) The science department runs several trips and educational visits throughout the year to enhance the experience of studying science.

This may include an overseas visit which has an approximate cost of £450. There will be other non-essential educational visits that students can access during the two-year course, such as visits to zoos, museums which may incur a small cost to the student of less than £50.

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Social Science and Health

BTEC Health and Social Care (Diploma and Extended Diploma) This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

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.

A Level Psychology This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

There is no requirement to purchase a textbook for psychology, since students will have access to an electronic version, however, this will mean a device (e.g. laptop, iPad or Chromebook) will need to be brought to the lesson to access the book’s content.

If students would prefer a hard copy to assist them with their 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.

In the second year of the extended diploma course there will be an opportunity for students to take part in the cadet programme at Blackpool Teaching Hospital. Any student enrolling onto this programme 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 students wish to purchase a resource to assist with their BTEC 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 students 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: 978-1846907-47-0.

A Level Sociology This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

There is no requirement to purchase a textbook for sociology. If students wish to purchase a resource to assist with their 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.

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Sport, Tourism and Public Services A Level Physical Education Two textbooks for the course are recommended by the teachers.

It will not be essential to purchase these as teachers will provide essential resources/ sources of information to support the course.

Recommended textbooks AQA A Level PE Book 1 - isbn - 978-147-1-85956-4.

Approximately £25 AQA A Level PE Book 2 ISBN 978-147-1-85959-5.

Approximately £25 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 the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

There will be educational visits, including a residential, involved with the course. Some of these will be funded by the specific uniformed service. Other visits will be funded by the students. An approximate cost for these essential visits will be £150 over the two years of the course. There may be other non-essential educational visits that students can access during the two-year 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, any 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 to the Student Finance Office.

BTEC Sport & Exercise Science This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

A range of 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 the estimated cost of these essential visits over the two years of the course will be approximately £100. There may be other nonessential educational visits that students can access during the two-year course.

Any student 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 Student Finance Office.

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

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BTEC Sport (Sports Performance & Excellence) (Diploma and Extended Diploma) This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

A range of 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 the estimated cost of these essential visits over the two years of the course will be approximately £100. There may be other non-essential educational day and residential visits that students can access during the two year course.

Any student 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.

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 (Refill) 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 (Refill) at very competitive prices.

Textiles and Fashion A basic practical garment construction pack will be available at a cost of approximately £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 (Refill) at very competitive prices.

BTEC Travel & Tourism (Diploma and Extended Diploma) This subject has been chosen to take part in the exciting and innovative Technology for Learning programme to transform teaching and learning. See “Technology for learning programme” section.

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 the estimated cost of these essential visits over the two years of the course will be approximately £100. There may be other non-essential educational day and residential visits that students can access during the two-year course.

Students are recommended to purchase the core textbook, “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. Copies of this book are available in the FYi resource centre along with other resources provided by the teachers to support 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 the Student Finance Office.

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 Refill at very competitive prices.

NOTE: Again, students are reminded that if they are experiencing financial hardship they may be able to request funding from the Access Fund to cover some of the costs listed above. Further details and application forms 19 are available from the Student Finance Office.