Student Handbook 2023-2024

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2023-2024

p3 Principal's Welcome

p4 College Calendar

p5 College Mission

- Our Values

- Useful Telephone Numbers

p7-12 Important Information We Collect About You

- What is a Unique Learner Number?

- Personal Learning Record

- Sharing Information

p14- 18 Help with Learning

- English & Maths

- Employability Skills

- Tutorials

- ProPortal

p19- 27 Supporting your Progress

- Work Experience

- Learner Support

- Library & Learning Resource Centres (LRCs)

- Moodle (My Courses)

- LRC College Induction

p28- 29 Learning in the Community

p30 College Charter

p31- 46 What We Will Provide For You

- Careers Information, Advice & Guidance

- Apprenticeships

- Help with Finance

- Free College Meals

- Bursaries

- Care to Learn (C2L)

- Help with Finance (19+)

- Travel Support

- Childcare Support

- Additional Learning Support

- Council Tax Exemption

- Evidence of Enrolment & Attendance

- NUS

- TOTUM

- Childcare

- Food & Refreshments

- The Atom – College Shop

- Cash Machine

- ID Cards

- Lost & Found

- Lifts

- Change Personal Details

- Travel

- Student Printing

p49- 56 Help With Your Wellbeing

- Enrichment

- Student Volunteer Group

- Learner Voice

- Wellbeing – Contacts

- Counselling

- Care Leaves & Care Experienced Students

- LGBTQ Students

- Multi-Faith Chaplaincy

- Quiet Room

- Salon Services

p57- 58 College Partners

p59- 61 Safeguarding

p62 Stay Safe at College

p64- 65 What We Expect of You

- Positive Behaviour Policy

p66- 81 Key Policies & Procedures

p82- 84 Making Complaints & Comments

p86 Centre Details

Principal's Welcome

Congratulations on choosing to study with us at Bolton College - you have made a great choice!

Throughout your time here, you can expect plenty of tutor support, new opportunities and a great future once you have qualified; we are ambitious for you at Bolton College and former Students continue to make their mark on the world, whether that’s progressing to university or taking that first step towards an exciting and rewarding career - in fact, in our last Ofsted inspection, inspectors highlighted this very point, noting that our student develop good employability and personal skills and that a high proportion progress to Apprenticeships, employment or Higher Education.

When you join us, we will support you to achieve the best you can and make good progress by setting challenging targets and increasing your critical thinking skills. We strive for excellence in attendance, punctuality, behaviour and meeting course deadlines; regardless of your age or whether you are on a full-time or part-time course, you can rely on us to help you aim high.

It’s important that you make the most of your time here and embrace all opportunities. Outside of the classroom, our enrichment and wellbeing activities will allow you to try something different, adding a whole new dimension to your study.

At Bolton College we are committed to ensuring that there is a safe and supportive environment for all; we want everyone to feel comfortable and secure enough to be themselves and do not tolerate harassment, bullying, victimisation or bullying.

Ofsted said we ‘promote equality and diversity passionately and exceptionally well.'

This Student Handbook is essential reading as it provides important information on College services, policies and guidelines.

It sets out what we expect from you and what you can expect from us, so please familiarise yourself with it and ask your Learning Development Mentor (LDM) or tutor if you have any questions.

We wish you a very successful year ahead and if you do spot me in College, be sure to come and say hello!

Bill Webster, Principal of Bolton College

College Calendar 2023/2024

Here are our official term dates:

Autumn Term

Monday 4th September to Friday 22nd December 2023 (15 weeks)

Half Term

Monday 30th October to

Friday 3rd November 2023 (1 week)

Spring Term

Monday 8th January to

Thursday 28th March 2024 (11 weeks)

Half Term

Monday 19th February to Friday 23rd February 2024 (1 week)

Summer Term

Monday 15th April to

Friday 28th June 2024 (10 weeks)

Half Term

Monday 27th May to

Friday 31st May 2024 (1 week)

Bank Holidays

Monday 6th May 2024

Monday 27th May 2024

The College has scheduled Staff Development Days on Thursday 12 October 2023 and Thursday 1 February 2024 – usually the College will be closed to students on these days – please check with your teacher.

College Mission

Bolton College will enable individuals, businesses and communities within Bolton and the region to realise their potential through education and training that is inclusive, inspiring, innovative and responsive to their needs.

Our key values are:

• Excellence in all we do

• Ensuring learning and the student are at the heart of everything we do

• Equality of opportunity and celebration of diversity

• Honesty and integrity

• Serving our community and sustainability and corporate responsibility

Useful Telephone Contacts within College

Absence Helpline: 01204 482 999 (Absences must be reported before 8.30am. The Attendance Line is open between 7.30am - 4.00pm, Monday - Friday).

Student Experience Zone: 01204 482 182 or 01204 482 194

Customer Support Team: 01204 482 000

Important Information We Collect About You

How we use your personal information

We understand that some people worry about giving information in case it should fall into the wrong hands. There are very strict laws to make sure that we protect these details and deal with them responsibly. The information below provides a summary of how Bolton College collects, uses and protects personal data that we hold.

Personal data means information that can identify you as an individual. This may include your name, contact details, medical or support requirements and financial information and other details supplied to us. Collecting this data helps us provide you with a service which meets your needs and enables us to meet our statutory duties.

Data protection law requires all organisations that hold or process personal information to do so in a secure and respectful way. We comply with our obligations under GDPR by keeping personal data up to date; by storing and destroying it securely; by not collecting or retaining excessive

amounts of data; by protecting personal data from loss, misuse, unauthorised access and disclosure; and by ensuring that appropriate organisational and technical measures are in place to protect personal data.

We aim to provide you with access to your personal information. If that information is wrong, we strive to give you ways to update it quickly or to delete it unless we have to keep that information for legitimate business or legal purposes.

Bolton College may share personal information with other organisations as part of our legal obligations, statutory duties or where there is legitimate interest, such as awarding bodies for examinations. We will never sell your information to any other organisation.

We will keep your personal data for as long as is necessary for the purpose for which we are processing it, unless we have a legitimate reason for keeping it, for example, any legal requirement to keep the data for a set time period.

Important Information We Collect About You...

Beyond that we may retain some information anonymised to ensure you cannot be identified in order to inform trends and profiles. Where we do not need to continue to process your personal data, it will be securely destroyed.

We keep an eye on how you use the College’s equipment and computers and what websites you go on when browsing the internet at College. This is because we have legal obligations to protect you, and a legitimate interest in making sure you are using our computer equipment correctly and are not looking at any inappropriate content. If you want to browse the internet privately, you will need to use your own devices which are not linked to the College’s network or internet connection.

For more information please refer to our Privacy Notice for Students. This has been prepared in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and is available on our College website. As well as providing

more information on how we use your personal information, it provides more information on your rights, which include:

• The right to know what personal information is held about you and to have access to a copy of your personal information.

• The right to ask us to correct any errors in your personal information.

• The right to have your information deleted (restrictions do apply).

• The right to restrict the use that we are making of your personal information (restrictions do apply).

For more information please refer to the full Privacy Notice for Students on the College website.

Important Information We Collect About You...

Unique Learner NumberWhat is a ULN?

A ULN is a unique 10-digit number. The majority of students aged 14+ have one. It is designed to help you when you register or enrol on a course. It helps you to prove all of your learning and achievements from secondary school onwards by allowing educational institutions access to your Personal Learning Record (PLR). The ULN is the educational equivalent of your National Insurance number.

Where will you find your own ULN? Your ULN may already be printed on your exam results slip or certificate from your awarding body. It is a 10-digit number and not to be confused with any Candidate, Exam or Centre Number that your awarding body may have provided you with separately.

If you have not received a ULN already, one will be created for you following your enrolment. Keep your ULN in a safe place. Just like your National Insurance number, you may need to use your ULN for the rest of your life. It makes life easier for you by reducing the need to use paper.

Important Information We Collect About You...

Personal Learning Record (PLR)

A PLR is an online record which includes all of your learning achievements, such as GCSEs, A/S Levels, NVQs, BTEC awards, qualifications and work-based learning.

The College may access your PLR to verify any qualifications that you have gained to date. This can be useful if you have recently left school and lost your certificates. In the future your employers might ask for your permission to view your PLR in order to quickly verify your learning achievements. A direct benefit of using your PLR is that your own job and training course applications are quicker to process without having to provide paper-based copies of your certificates and work-based and vocational training – such as GCSEs, A/S Levels, NVQs, BTEC awards, qualifications and work-based learning.

Changing your contact information

Obviously we want to make sure that the information we do hold about you is accurate and up to date, so if you do move house or you change any of your personal details, such as your name, address or telephone number etc. then notify us of the change through the Learner Hub or visit one of our enrolment centres or main offices to update us.

We may need to notify you by text if your class changes or should a situation arise where the College is unexpectedly closed on a particular day, therefore you need to ensure you keep your phone number updated.

We would also like to know if your employment status changes during your course. Please note that it is only your employment status when you start your course which is used to work out if you have fees to pay so there will be no impact.

Sharing your information

Details relating to attendance, progress, conduct etc. will be shared with parents/carers of all students aged under 19 at the start of their programme for the whole duration of their programme. When you have turned 18, if you decide you do not wish the College to contact your parents, then you can request this via the Enrolment Centre. These details will also be shared with the sponsor of any student, of all ages, including where the employer has paid for the student to undertake a course or the student is on an Apprenticeship programme.

Our privacy notice provides more details of how we process and use your data as well as how we may share this with other organisations.

Help With Learning

English and Maths

You are now on a journey to achieve your English and Maths

Why do I need English and Maths?

English and Maths are essential for progression route opportunities onto higher level courses and/or employment. University courses and jobs expect good levels of English and Maths with the majority requiring at least a GCSE grade 4 or above in both subjects.

What do I need to bring to my English and Maths lessons?

For Maths each student must bring:

• A pen

• A pencil

• A pencil sharpener

• An eraser

• A 30cm ruler

• A scientific calculator (for GCSE)

•

For English each student must bring:

• A pen

• A highlighter

What does English and Maths look like at Bolton College?

During your time at Bolton College, you will continue to develop your English and Maths skills embedded throughout your Study Programme. English will

help with your communication skills along with supporting you to develop technical and numerical skills in everyday life which are transferable to higher education and your career.

If you have not yet achieved your Grade 4 in GCSE in either English and/or Maths, you will continue to study these subjects as part of your timetable to ensure that you have no barriers to your progression.

If you haven’t yet achieved your English and/or maths at a grade 4, we are here to help!

Attendance = Success!

Ensure you attend every lesson to achieve the best possible grade!

Sessions will include a variety of activities designed to enable you to develop your skills and make progress. You will also be expected to access online resources as part of the course to further enhance your independent study skills and practice the skills you have learnt in class.

What if I need support?

A range of support is available to students at Bolton College. This includes extra lessons for targeted help with skills gaps and in class support, as well as modified materials if required. All teachers will be happy to discuss any needs you may have so please make them aware so that we can help.

What if I have already achieved a grade 4 in my Maths and/or English?

English and Maths is a key part of academic study and you will continue to develop these skills within your curriculum area. If you do already have a grade 4 in GCSE English Literature but lower in GCSE

English Language look carefully at university course requirements if you intend to study further as some will ask for a grade 4 in English Language.

Please contact englishandmaths@boltoncc.ac.uk if you have any queries.

Employability Skills

For the first fifteen weeks, full-time students will attend Employability classes in your Curriculum Area which are a mandatory part of your Study Programme.

Throughout your time at College we will be helping you to prepare for your next steps. All staff who teach you, your teachers, Learning and Development Mentors (LDMs), Personal Tutors, Work Placement Officers and our College Careers Team will be assisting you with developing the right skills, qualities and values you will need, whether you decide to progress to education at a higher level or decide to venture out into the world of work and Apprenticeships.

Staff will talk to you about timekeeping, attendance, being reliable and dependable – all qualities needed for being a good employee and a good university student. Throughout your course you will be learning skills for, and gaining experiences of, the industry you may want to work in.

Our staff team and employers will work with you to ensure you have some of the attributes that future employers are looking for: working on your own and in a team; meeting deadlines; using your initiative to see what needs to be done to help a job move forward quickly and efficiently; thinking about solutions to problems; and developing excellent interpersonal and communication skills. We call this set of skills and qualities Employability Skills.

The Journey to Employment Award is given to students at the end of their time with the College. This is a portfolio of evidence which demonstrates how well you have developed your Employability Skills.

It can be achieved at bronze, silver and gold levels and is highly valued by employers and students. As part of the journey to your next step, we have some standards in place for you to follow in the classroom and the workplace to ensure you get there. During your time at College, if you are studying on a full-time course, you will have weekly one hour timetabled tutorial with your LDM/Personal Tutor. They are there to support and guide you along your journey through College.

Your Personal Development offer is aimed to support you to develop your knowledge and skills beyond your main subject. We want you to:

• Make excellent progress

• Set and meet challenging targets

• Develop an understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion

• Be enterprising, creative and confident

• Solve problems and be resourceful

• Know how to take care of yourself

• Make positive choices about your health and wellbeing

• Contribute to the community

• Steadily develop personal attributes that will enhance your employability

• Our tutorial system is there to help you achieve this

ProPortal

ProPortal is your personalised learning environment.

It is the centre of your learning and the place where you, your subject teachers, LDM and Personal Tutor will monitor and manage your journey through College and towards success.

It also gives you access to your personal targets, subject reviews and important dates such as assignment deadlines. It allows you to carefully track and review you progress throughout the academic year.

You will also have an opportunity to set your own personal targets for learning.

Tutorials for Full-Time Students

Each week you will meet with your LDM/Personal Tutor. The meeting will be with the course group and you will discuss a topic concerned with your course or of interest in the media. These weekly meetings will be related to the tutorial key themes of Personal and Social Development; Citizenship; Progression; and Equality and Diversity. Each term you will have oneto-one time with your LDM/Personal Tutor. It is your chance to discuss and record your progress on the course, celebrate your success and target areas where you can improve.

Tutorials for Part-Time Students

If you are studying on a part-time course, your course teacher will also be your Personal Tutor. You will have access to all Tutorials resources via a Moodle course.

Supporting your progress

Work Experience

All students across the College from ages 16-18 years, will undertake a variety of work experience activity. This can include a work placement, industry placement, youth social action project, visits to and from employers and much more!

The College values developing your formal education and employability skills. By undertaking placements, you will have the opportunity to develop and enhance these skills, regarded as essential by the majority of employers.

2023/24

Youth Social Action Projects

Some students will complete work experience within a youth social action project. In a work experience context, social action can take the form of you honing your work-related skills and behaviours to have a positive impact on your community.

If you have a great idea for a youth social action project, discuss it with your LDM or teacher. Your teacher will lead the project and you may be working with an external employer/ organisation.

External Work Placement

Some students will do an external work placement with an employer. The work placement will link to your chosen curriculum area.

You will be supported throughout your placement by your designated Work Placement Officer. Your Work Placement Officer will help you identify placements related to your course and support you in completion of an online app that helps you log your hours and experiences.

T-Level Industry Placements

Level 3 students undertaking a T-level course will complete a 315 hour industry placement with an external employer (750 hours for Education and Early Years T Level students). The placement will be linked to your course and you will have to complete set aims and objectives. You will be assessed throughout your placement by College staff and feedback will be given by your employer.

Learner Support – Supporting

Successful Students

We want you to get the most out of your course and have the best chance of being successful. We aim to give you any support we can with your College work. All learners are able to benefit from learner support during their time at College.

We offer:

• Advice on the best way to get help or to help yourself

• Special assessment of your needs

• Structured support plans tailored towards your individual needs

• Technical equipment support

• Communicator support

• Help with English as a second language

• Dyslexia support

• Introduction to and tuition on accessible software that will read resources to you and much more

• Help with English and Maths in class, in our drop-in centre, The Hub A1.35C or remotely online

• Support with exam access arrangements, such as extra time or a reader and advice on how to use them

• Support for individual or group work

• Help with planning and organising your work and study skills from our drop in: The Hub A1.35C

If you have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) please let us know by dropping into AG.18, emailing studentsupportadmins@boltoncc.ac.uk or ringing support admin on 01204 482 669 or Julie Rawlinson on 01204 482 662.

Many students need some extra help at some point in their studies. We will try to identify this, but it is helpful if you talk regularly to your individual tutor. In addition you can:

• Indicate your support needs on the College Application Form

• Ask when you receive guidance, at interview or enrolment

• Ask at the Student Services Centre or reception at other Centres

• Ask your tutor to contact Learner Support at any point in your course

• Call in to room AG.18 at the Deane Road Campus to have an informal discussion with experienced staff or ring 01204 482 669 to be directed to the right person to talk to

The Learner Support Team is based in Room AG.18 at the Deane Road Campus. Contact the Learner Support Administration Team on: 01204 482 669 / 670

Library and Learning Resource

Centres (LRCs)

What you might think of as the Library is also called the LRC at Bolton College. We call it the LRC because we provide you with much more than just traditional paper-based books. The LRC Team is here to support you whatever your course and wherever you are based.

We give you access to all different types of learning resources specific to your course, teamed with friendly, experienced and helpful staff to help you with your learning.

Our learning resource provision includes:

• Online eBooks that you can read anywhere

• Paper-based books that you can borrow and take home

• A virtual online Library which you can access from home using your College login and your username and password

• Free access to educational websites recommended for your course by your teacher

• Helpful study skills and referencing tutorials and one-to-one assistance in any LRC

• Specialist magazines for your subject area

• eLearning resources for your subject through the Blended Learning Consortium

Please bring your ID card with you whenever you visit the LRCs; you will need it to borrow a book, to print, or to log on to a computer.

Remember that opening times vary between each LRC, so make sure that you check the advertised times. These can be found on your student homepage under ‘library’, and on every LRC door.

LRC on Social Media

Talk to us on social media! Get updates on our services, ask for help, get involved with local events and find interesting topics for discussion.

The LRC’s Content Sharing Platforms

The LRC creates instructional videos to help students learn how to get the best out of the physical and online learning resources offered by the College. Don't forget to click 'subscribe' to keep up to date with our channel www.youtube.com/@ boltoncollegelrctv2699

If you like to read and relax then why not visit our regular blog at www.boltoncc.ac.uk/library

It features all the latest news and views to enrich your learning and broaden your horizons. Here you will also find access to a ‘Personal Development Zone’ which aims to help nurture your self-improvement and growth within areas relating to your mental, social, spiritual, emotional, physical, economical, and study needs.

We also publish our own magazine called the ‘Librezine’ which is available as both a digital and print based resource. Our back catalogue can be found here: www.issuu.com/ boltonCollegelearningresourcecentre

Asking for Help and Support

Whether you are a beginner or a confident IT user, the LRC Team will be able to help or point you in the right direction. We can support you with everything from accessing your student homepage, printing and saving your work, through to researching for and referencing your assignments.

Where Can I Study?

The LRCs at the Deane Road Campus are designed with you and your study needs in mind. They provide safe and comfortable areas for you to study in. If you feel that your study needs are not being met at any point, please talk to a member of staff.

All students are welcome to use any or all of these spaces. Read on to find out which LRC has books relating to your course subject:

Deane Road Campus – A Block

First Floor LRC – A1.46

• Drop-in access to laptops, PCs and iMacs

• Self-issue machine for checking out, renewing and returning your books

• Headphones for use in the LRC, laptop chargers

• Wide range of Wellbeing, Graphic Novels and Fiction books

• Wide collection of subject books and magazines

• Study tables for independent work

Subjects:

• Beauty Therapy and Nails; Media Make-up; Hairdressing and Barbering

• Health Professions; Social Care; Midwifery; Complementary Therapies; Counselling

• Sports; Public Services; Psychology; Sociology; Criminology

• Early Years; Healthcare Play; Teaching and Education

• Catering and Hospitality

• Science and Maths

• Culture and History; Driving Theory

Deane Road Campus – A Block

Second Floor LRC – A2.29

• Drop-in access to PC and Apple iMac computers

• Large collection of books and magazines

• Self-issue machine for checking out, renewing and returning your books

• Guillotine and laminator (bring your own pockets)

• Headphones for use in the LRC, laptop chargers

• Study tables for independent work

Subjects:

• Accounting and Book Keeping

• Visual and Performing Arts (Theatre, Monologues, Screenplays, Animation, Artists and Techniques, Fashion, Graphic Design, Textiles)

• Business, Administration and Management; Computing and IT; Marketing

• ESOL; Easy/Quick Reads; Life in the UK

• English; Languages; IELTS; Sign Language

Deane Road Campus – B Block

Arts & Construction LRC – B1.28

• Drop-in access to computers

• Range of subject specific books

• Self-issue machine for checking out, renewing and returning your books

• Printer/scanner

• Headphones, laptop chargers

Subjects:

• Brickwork; Carpentry and Joinery; Plastering

• Engineering; Construction and Building Services

• Electrical Installation

• Painting and Decorating

• Plumbing and Heating

• Roofing and Tiling

• Mechanics

Borrowing and Renewing Books

All books can be borrowed using our self-issue machines located in each LRC. Just ask a member of staff for help with finding or checking out books.

You can borrow up to six books at a time, ten if you are a HE student, for three weeks before having to renew. You can renew your book(s) via several methods: online, through the Library catalogue; on a self-issue machine; via email library@boltoncc.ac.uk via phone 01204 482176; or at the desk in any LRC.

There is no need to worry about late fines if you go overdue - we will not charge you but just ask that you renew your books on time, so we do not send you a reminder. If you do not bring your books back within 35 days of their due date you will be invoiced for their full cost. The same applies to damaged and lost books.

Reservations/Click and Collect

If you would like to reserve a book that is out on loan to someone else, you can do this online through the Library catalogue or at the desk in any LRC.

Student Home Page and Library Access

The Student Home Page is the first page you will see when you log on to www.boltoncc.ac.uk

It is your personal learning environment - a source of information tailored to you and a gateway to online digital study tools within College. In the left hand menu you will see a tab called ‘Library’.

Here you can access all the LRC resources, search the digital Library catalogue for a book, renew your books, read and download eBooks, access our social media and content sharing platforms, or find general information such as contact details and opening times.

Moodle (My Courses)

Moodle contains an online version of your course and other College services. It can be accessed by clicking the ‘Moodle’ button in the left-hand-side column of your Student Homepage.

Remember: other students may be waiting for your book to be returned, so please only keep books for as long as you need them.

The LRC Team works with your teacher to support your Moodle course with resources such as links to websites, videos and eBooks specific to your subject. Make time to explore and familiarise yourself with the Student Homepage and Moodle area as this is the backbone to your learning experience at College. Any member of the LRC team can help with queries relating to both of these online areas.

LRC College Induction

Your teacher may arrange an LRC induction at the beginning of your course. This induction will be a friendly interactive experience which will either be available for you to access in College, or online. The induction will show you the essential things you need to know to get started on your learning journey. It will include how to log on, use your College email, and activate your Moodle course - plus where and how you can access the LRC digital library for all our eBooks, eJournals and other online resources.

Our Inductions will also show you how to access College-wide facilities such as using the printer, laptop cabinets and self-issue machines. If anything is not covered in your LRC induction, you have not had one, or if you need a refresher, then please ask a member of the LRC Team who will be more than happy to help.

Learning in the Community

As an adult it can be daunting taking a step back into education so, at Bolton College, we have a network of community learning centres across the borough to help you step back into learning. Our friendly community team will ensure you have a positive learning journey.

Whether you’re a new student or a returning student, our accessible programmes will boost your confidence, help you to develop skills for employment, and support you to get a qualification. Each centre has its own reception, enrolment centre, café and onsite parking. Ask at a centre reception for anything you need help with and staff will do their best to assist.

We also have a Job Coach and Wellbeing Mentor who work in the community:

Suzanne, our Job Coach can be contacted on 01204 482 387 (Suzanne.Delaney@boltoncc.ac.uk) and helps many of our students with job applications and job applications.

Our Wellbeing Mentors can be contacted on 01204 482 667 (mental.health@boltoncc.ac.uk)

if you want advice or support with any issues that are bothering you.

We deliver courses across four centres in the Bolton area: New Bury (Farnworth), Farnworth Library, Brownlow Fold (Halliwell) and Deane and Derby (Deane). We also run courses from a range of smaller community venues across Bolton.

Our Adult and Community Learning programmes fall into five categories:

1 Skills for Work and Further Learning: Programmes to help you gain employment, get ahead at work or move on to further learning. You’ll be spoilt for choice, with everything from Office Skills to a full Youth Work apprenticeship. Our Sector Based Work Academies connect you to local employers who are recruiting and prepare you to nail your job application and interview.

2 Positive Steps into Learning: Programmes to nurture your wellbeing, from Aromatherapy, Candle and Wax Melts and Cookery, to Gardening, Mindfulness and Poetry.

3 Computer and Digital Skills:

Everyday life is increasingly reliant on computers and digital media. If you feel like you’re behind the times, our Computer, IT and Digital programmes will bring you into the modern age, improving your digital skills at home and at work.

4

English and Maths: English and maths skills are essential for succeeding in employment or further study. Our FREE programmes will help you to brush up on those vital skills. Not sure if a class is right for you? Our English, Maths and Digital drop in sessions at Brownlow Fold and Deane and Derby offer you one to one support FREE.

5Family Learning:

Our FREE programmes ensure that you’ll always have the answer when your little one puts you on the spot. Even better, you’ll get to work alongside your child at school, so you’ll see what they really get up to in the classroom.

We like to stay in touch with all our students, even after they have finished studying with us. So expect a call from us later on to find out how you are getting on with further study and employment.

English, Maths & Digital Skills

Part of Life’s Essentials

College Charter

Before your course, we will provide:

• Qualifications and other entry requirements needed for the course you intend to study on

• Full details of how to move forward and advance within College, and information on what students on the same course have achieved in previous years

• Honest, open and impartial advice and guidance to help you make the right decisions

• Information about fees and any financial support that might be available

• Extra help if you need additional support

At the start of your course, we will:

• Give you an induction onto the course and College, and explain clearly your rights and responsibilities as a member of the College community

• Show you round the College, and familiarise you with the buildings and facilities

• Discuss with you any additional support you may need after your initial assessment

• During your course, you can expect:

• A high-quality learning programme delivered by well-qualified and experienced staff

• Regular meetings with your teacher to discuss your progress

• Opportunities to express your views about your course and College

• Your written work and assignments to be returned promptly, with written feedback that can help you in your studies

• Opportunities to take part in enrichment activities

• Help with careers information, advice and/or guidance

• Access to confidential counselling and welfare services (e.g., housing, finance and health issues)

If you are 18 or under, your parents/carers can expect:

• Access to a Parent Portal account

• Regular progress reviews

• At least two Parents’ Evening each year

• To be contacted by teachers if there are any issues relating to your progress which are causing concern

• The opportunity to provide feedback on the College both informally and by participating in the annual parental survey at Parents’ Evenings

• To be asked to encourage appropriate conduct and hard work at all times

What We Will Provide For You

Careers Information Advice and Guidance

Our friendly and well-qualified Careers Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG) Team, based in the Student Experience Zone are available to offer impartial careers advice and guidance and answer questions regarding future progression and career opportunities.

The Careers Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG) Team is based at the Deane Road Campus and offers one-to-one appointments in addition to drop-in services to explore employment and university options.

Careers support includes course advice; progression to the next level; help to change subject if you feel you are unsuited to your course; employment (including Apprenticeships) and volunteering opportunities.

The CIAG Team may also come into your lessons to give talks and presentations and they produce a wide range of resources to support you with your future plans.

information, advice and support includes:

• Advice on degree courses and career routes

• Higher Education Fair (at the start of the Autumn Term)

• Access to the UCAS website and support with completing UCAS applications

• Support with your UCAS personal statement from the CIAG team and university professionals

• Help with interview techniques and presentation skills

• Support with completing an application for Student Finance through Student Finance England

• A messaging service, providing regular reminders of important deadlines and the help that is available from the CIAG team

• A range of resources to help with all of the above is available from the Student Experience Zone and electronic versions can be accessed via your College homepage, under ‘Going to University 2023’

you are seeking employment, information, advice and support includes:

• Help to produce CVs and covering letters

• Help to develop knowledge of useful job websites and resources

• Support to create a professional profile

• Support with completion of job and Apprenticeship applications

• Interview skills, techniques and tips

A range of resources are available to help you with all aspects of your job search activities. Electronic versions can be accessed via ‘Looking for a Job’ which is listed in the Student News Stories section of your College homepage.

For further information or to book an appointment, please contact the Careers Team on 01204 482 182; call into the Job Shop, within the Student Experience Zone which is based on the ground floor at the Deane Road Campus or email us at careersteam.email@boltoncc.ac.uk

Apprenticeships

Why not kick-start your career with an Apprenticeship! Apprenticeships offer training opportunities in the workplace with an employer whilst you earn money. Apprenticeships have entry level opportunities starting at level 2 and can in some professions lead to university or a degree apprenticeship.

At Bolton College we have a range of professions for you to enjoy and can support you to find an apprenticeship as we engage with a large number of employers.

We support Apprenticeships in:

• Business and Professional Services:

• Accounting

• Paralegal

• Computing and IT

• Social Media

• IT Solutions

• Hairdressing and Barbering

• Floristry

Want to know more?

Visit the College website and check out the Guide to Apprenticeships: www. BoltonCollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships

Call into the Job Shop within the Student Experience Zone, call 01204 482 036 or email: apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk

If you want to find an Apprenticeship further afield check out: www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

• Early Years

• Youth work

• Motor Vehicle Body and Paint Operations

• Motor Vehicle and Repair

• Sport and Fitness

• Teaching (Teaching Assistant)

• Construction Industry

• Painting and Decorating

• Electrical Installation

• Plumbing and Heating

• Roofing, Slating and Tiling

• Brickwork

Help with Finance

We all understand that applying for financial assistance can be a daunting task, but rest assured the Student Finance Team are here to help you through the process.

Over the next few pages, we will outline the different types of assistance that are available, and the ways in which you must qualify to be eligible for them. If you have any questions, queries or are just a little unsure as to if you qualify, please don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will do our best to help you.

You can reach us via the Student Experience Zone on 01204 482 182.

Help with Finance: Students aged 16-18

If you are struggling with your course due to financial difficulties, you may be able to get help with some of the essentials for your course, such as childcare, equipment and travel. There is a limited supply of funding, so early application is advised.

Student Finance 16 -18 Application forms for the funds detailed below are available online via the following link: www.bit.ly/16-18Bursary2023-24 and the College website.

Free College meals

If you or your family are in receipt of Income Support; income-based Jobseekers Allowance; income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA); support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999; the guarantee element of State Pension Credit; Child Tax Credit (provided they are not entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190, as assessed by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC)); or Universal Credit with net earnings not exceeding the equivalent of £7,400 per annum, you may be entitled to a free College meal for every day you are studying in College.

Students qualifying for the Discretionary Bursary may also be entitled to discretionary free meals. If you are 16-18 (or up to age 24 for some students with learning difficulties/disabilities) and you think you may qualify – ask for more information at the Student Experience Zone.

Bursaries

Bursaries are available for some 16-18 year old students taking EFA funded courses. There are two types of Bursary:

1. Student Support Allowance

Bursary worth up to £1,200 in kind per academic year if you are:

• A young person in care, or have recently left care.

• A young person in receipt of Universal Credit or Income Support in your own right.

• A young person with severe disabilities who is in receipt of either Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Disability Living Allowance and is also in receipt of Employment Support Allowance (ESA)

2. The Discretionary Bursary

The Discretionary Bursary is available to eligible students to help towards costs such as transport and equipment. This is means tested, and you may qualify if you are aged 16-18 and your family’s income is £30,000 or less a year. You will need to provide evidence of your family’s income.

Students must meet the qualifying criteria shown above, and must have to travel more than 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) from home to College (Google Maps is used to determine distance) in order to receive financial assistance with travel.

Students aged 16 and 17 living in Greater Manchester can apply for the Our Pass from TfGM via www.ourpass.co.uk

The £10 cost will be refunded to students qualifying for travel support.

Care to Learn (C2L)

Care to Learn (C2L) is available to help with childcare costs for students aged under 20 studying on most courses. The C2L scheme will contribute 100% of childcare costs (up to £180 per week per child), but early application is advised.

Either contact the Student Finance Officer on 01204 482 191 or ring the nursery staff directly on 01204 482 196 for more information, or check out the following link: www.gov.uk/care-to-learn

Care to Learn (C2L)

Care to Learn applications for 2023-24 need to be made online. You can use the following link: www.gov.uk/care-to-learn

Help with Finance - students aged 19+

Financial support is available for students aged 19+ with the cost of travel, food support, and childcare.

This assistance is means tested, and you may qualify if you have a partner and your family income is £30,000 a year or less, or £25,000 a year where you do not have a partner.

You will need to supply evidence of your own or your family’s income.

Students who are taking courses at Level 3 or above (not HE courses) may also need to have applied for, and had approved, an Advanced Learner Loan to qualify for Financial Support.

There is a limited supply of funding, so early application is advised. You can apply for help with finance on the 19+ Student Finance Application Form on the following link: www.bit.ly/adfinsupp23-24 or through the College website.

Travel Support

Travel Support is available to some students aged 19 or older who are taking Adult or Community Learning funded courses.

Students must meet the qualifying criteria shown above, and must have to travel more than 1 mile (1.6 kilometres) from home to CollegeGoogle Maps is used to determine distance.

Childcare Support

Childcare support is available to some students aged 20 or older who are taking either CL or ASB funded courses. Students must meet the qualifying criteria shown above.

The College can only assist with Ofsted registered childcare, and will contribute up to 80% of the cost of term-time childcare costs, with a maximum contribution of £50 per child per day.

Additional Learning Support

If you are aged 19 or older and are taking a course at Level 3 or above (not HE courses); do not qualify for a waiver of your tuition fees; and you have additional learning support needs, you could get help with the cost of any additional learning support needs you may have.

You will need to have applied for, and had approved, an Advanced Learner Loan in order to receive this assistance. Please contact the Student Finance Officer on 01204 482 191 for more information.

Council Tax Exemption

You may be eligible for Council Tax Exemption if you are studying for at least 21 hours per week for at least 24 weeks per year or if you are under 20 and are studying for 12 hours per week for at least 3 calendar months.

These hours can be made up of time you spend in class, work placements or study you do outside of the classroom.

We will check your Student Records to confirm that you are studying for the required number of hours during the year. In some cases, we may need to contact your Teachers for more information.

Evidence of Enrolment and Attendance

If you require evidence that you are a student to send to someone you can request an Enrolment and Attendance Certificate via our online formwww.Bit.ly/bcctax20

These certificates can be used to help with Child or Housing Benefit or Council Tax Exemption.

Where ever possible we will email your Certificate straight to the organisation asking for it; this is usually the Council. There is a space on the form to provide an email address for them. However, in exceptional cases we are able to send the Certificate to your home address as it appears on your student record.

The Certificate is normally processed and sent out within 5 working days of receipt. However, at the beginning of term it can take longer due to the number of requests we receive. Please remember to tell us if you change your address after you have enrolled.

(NUS) National Union of Students

Our College is affiliated to NUS which is an organisation that has been established for nearly 100 years and their mission is to ‘promote, defend and extend students' rights’. NUS represent students' interests to ensure that students can thrive, by campaigning for change and ensuring that students have a fair deal. If you would like more information about NUS please visit www.nus.org.uk.

TOTUM

One of the benefits of being affiliated to NUS is access to the TOTUM student discount platform. You can download the TOTUM app on your phone for free and buy a TOTUM Card which currently costs £14.99 for one year. TOTUM provides students with ‘significant extra benefits’, including concessionary rates of entry to many facilities, discounts for shops, travel schemes and leisure activities. It is currently the only student discount card that can be used on the high street and online, that includes PASS ID.

If you would like to apply for a TOTUM Card go to www.totum.com or download the app now!

• www.bit.ly/APPLE-TOTUM

• www.bit.ly/ANDROID-TOTUM

Childcare Facilities

The College’s Early Years and Pre-School Centre is an Ofsted registered nursery on the Deane Road Campus, where students can leave their pre-school children whilst they are studying.

Please note: This service is not on demand, childcare must be pre-booked with our Centre.

The nursery was last inspected by Ofsted on 9 September and judged to be “Good” in all areas:

• Overall Effectiveness: Good

• The Quality of Education: Good

• Behaviour and Attitudes: Good

• Personal Development: Good

• Leadership and Management: Good

Some of the comments in the most recent Ofsted Report were as follows:

• Leaders are dedicated in providing a 'home-from-home environment' where children receive 'quality education and care'. Detailed and accurate self-evaluation helps leaders to focus on how to continually improve

• Children, including those with funded places and children with special educational needs and/ or disabilities (SEND), make good progress. Overall, staff provide a curriculum which builds on children's interests. For example, staff encourage children to develop their imaginations as they dig in the sand and excitedly say that they have 'found treasure!'

• Staff prioritise children's communication and language. Children access books throughout the day and can take them home to share with their parents. Staff sing songs and encourage children to use new words. For example, children say that they are 'using more flour' while rolling dough. Staff use words from children's home languages. This helps children who speak English as an additional language to feel valued and to develop a good grasp of English

• Children learn about the world around them and learn to respect different people. Staff provide children with experiences that they might not already have had. For example, they go on trips to the library, fire station and other places in the community. Children discover different festivals and events. This helps to prepare them for life in modern Britain

Partnership working is excellent. Leaders work closely with the on-site college, and the provider explains that the nursery is integral to the college's vision. Strong links are made with schools. Staff work with external professionals to get children with SEND the support that they need. Parents report that they could not ask for a better nursery. They praise staff for being caring and getting to know their children as individuals, helping them to 'thrive'

• The arrangements for safeguarding are effective. The premises are safe and secure. Robust recruitment and vetting procedures ensure that staff are suitable. Leaders make sure that staff receive safeguarding and first-aid training. They check that this knowledge is up to date, for example by providing staff with safeguarding quizzes. Leaders signpost further training, depending on staff's development needs. Staff understand the local authority referral procedure. They know how to help protect children from harm, including the steps to take if there are concerns about children's welfare or a colleague's conduct. Staff have a broad understanding of safeguarding issues, including witchcraft and the 'Prevent' duty.

The nursery is divided into two separate age groups:

• 6 weeks - 2 years

• 2 years - 5 years

The Centre opens Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm, during term time.

Our staff are professional, caring and welcoming. We offer quality care provided by friendly staff who have extensive experience of working within the early year’s field. All nursery team members are qualified to NVQ Level 3, NNEB or above. All our nursery team are trained in current paediatric first aid. We also have student placements that join the team for experience of working in a nursery alongside their College courses but they are supervised and supported by staff at all times.

Each child is allocated a Key Person from the nursery team. The child forms a close attachment to the Key Person and they support the child’s learning and development whilst at nursery. They will also be responsible for building a relationship with you, as their parent, providing you with regular updates on your child’s progress.

We operate an Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum aiming to ensure that:

• Each child feels valued and is cared for in a safe, secure, happy and stimulating environment

• An exciting, well planned and wellresourced curriculum is delivered

• Each child is encouraged to become independent

• We develop the whole child emotionally, intellectually, physically, socially and spiritually

• We encourage children to become familiar with letters and sounds (phonics)

• We offer a variety of additional support if needed

You can be confident that your child will receive first-class care at our Bolton College Early Years and PreSchool Centre. Some team members are bilingual and will be happy to interpret for parents if required. Since Covid-19, our setting has implemented some additional measures to ensure that the children, their parents and the staff are safe at all times. The setting has more rigorous risk assessments and routines in place e.g., checking children’s temperature on entry and more frequent handwashing routines.

There is a charge for using the College childcare facilities but you may be entitled to receive help towards these costs - see the Help with Finance section of the Student Handbook for details.

You may also be entitled to receive help towards the costs of childcare through the same channels if your child is placed at an Ofsted registered nursery outside of the College facility.

We can explain everything that’s in place if you join us!

Food and Refreshments

Our students at Deane Road have a number of restaurants to choose from on campus, which are operated in partnership with Catering Academy, our onsite catering provider in College.

All our outlets accept cash, debit/ credit cards/contactless and also free meal payments via the ID Pass.

Diversity

This is our main student food court, offering hot food from 8.30am until 2.30pm, Monday to Friday. The menu includes an extensive breakfast offer; halal options; healthy choices; hot snack items; and a comprehensive 'grab and go' menu and homemade cake for busy students 'on the go'.

Infusion Coffee Bar

Infusion is our Costa Coffee Bar, which offers a relaxed environment where students can enjoy a branded coffee with a continental style breakfast and healthier options including homemade bio yoghurts, as well as a hot food offer at teatime for students attending evening classes. Infusion is open from 8.30am until 8pm, Monday to Thursday, and 8.30am until 2pm, Friday.

Foundation

This is the Construction and Arts food court, offering a traditional breakfast service and lunch items, which include vegetarian and halal options. Foundation is open from 8.30am until 2.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Students who are eligible for Free Meals can use their daily allowance of £4.00 at any outlet. This allowance can be topped up with a cash or card payment if required. We have a range of meal deals specifically aimed at our Free Meal customers to give our students the best value possible.

Signature Restaurant

Signature is the College’s training restaurant providing our catering learners with invaluable experience in a fully functioning kitchen and restaurant.

Serving the very best food at incredible prices students, staff and the public are invited to book in or take advantage of our take away service.

Service typically takes place Tuesday, Thursday and Friday lunch and Thursday evenings.

Special occasions can also be catered for – booking is required.

Further details can be found on the college website or by calling 01204 482 364.

Vending Services

Vending machines are also available to provide our out-of-hours service and are maintained by our external partners, Livewell Vending. There is a snack bar at our Brownlow Fold community centre and a hot drinks facility at our New Bury and Deane and Derby centres purchased from the reception office.

The Atom – College Shop

The Atom shop is open Monday - Friday, 8.20am to 3.30pm, on a daily basis during term time, and sells a range of stationery, art supplies, students’ work, confectionery, drinks, jewellery, cards, gifts and College clothing.

Cash Machine

The main campus at Deane Road has a cash machine installed on the first-floor landing. The cash machine charges 95p for cash withdrawals.

This service charge of 95p is the decision which has been made by the machine suppliers, not the College. We would advise you to keep your money securely and not carry around large amounts of cash with you for your own safety.

Security ID Pass

You will be issued with your Security ID Pass at enrolment or at the start of your course.

Your ID pass is a smart card which you will need to use to:

• gain access to the college buildings

• borrow books from the College LRCs

• use a College laptop

• pay for your meals if you are eligible for Free College Meals.

Your ID pass is also proof of identity, and you are expected to wear it visibly and present it if requested by a member of College staff. If you forget your ID pass, you must collect a temporary day pass from the Security Desk, which you need to wear whilst you are in College.

If you lose your ID pass, replacement cards can be obtained from the Enrolment Centre at the Deane Road Campus and from Centre receptions at other sites.

Your first replacement ID pass will be provided free; you may be charged for further replacements.

Your ID pass is only valid for the current academic year. It will be reactivated for the following year should you reenrol in 2024/25.

For 2023/24 you will be provided with a black lanyard.

The Positive Behaviour Policy will be invoked if you persistently forget your ID pass, refuse to buy a replacement one, or if you refuse to show it to staff when requested.

Security Entry Gate System

From October 2023 - New Security Speed Gates will be installed to bolster security on site as part of the Colleges safeguarding aims and objectives.

All students will be required to carry their student security ID card at all times to access and leave college buildings.

Lifts

The lifts at our Deane Road Campus are for staff and people with mobility difficulties so students should use the stairs wherever possible. However, if you are unable to walk up the stairs you can use the lift next to Diversity and the Sports Hall.

Lost and Found

If you have lost something please check whether it has been handed in at main reception. We keep a log of items and will ask you to sign for anything you collect. If your item is of value and we don’t have it when you first ask, we can take your details and contact you should it be handed in at a later date.

If you find something which doesn’t belong to you, we would ask you to hand it in to reception and we’ll keep it safe until the owner collects it.

What you should do if you change your personal details

If you change your address or contact number after you have enrolled, you need to update your student record. You can do this by logging in to your Learner Hub Account herewww.bit.ly/learnerhub

Finance Team, please also notify them of any changes to your name, address, phone number or bank details so that we can ensure we can keep in contact with you and you can still receive the payments you are entitled to.

If you change your name after you have enrolled you will need to take evidence of your legal name change, such as a marriage certificate or passport, to the Enrolment Centre at our Deane Road Campus or to Reception at one of our Community Centres. Staff will update your student record.

Travelling to College - Deane Road Campus by Public Transport

Details of public transport services to and from the College are available on the following website:

www.tfgm.com

Bolton’s bus and rail interchange, which also includes a Cycle Hub, is on Newport Street/Great Moor Street.

The Interchange provides passenger information and ticketing facilities and a safer, more secure waiting environment for buses and trains.

The College is an easy 15 minute walk from the Interchange.

It is really important that you do this because letters and exam certificates will be sent to the address that we have for you on our records. If you receive financial assistance from the Student

By Bicycle

We have two covered lockable cycle shelters available at Deane Road. One is near the steps to the Signature restaurant at the rear of the site and the other is next to the Construction Centre. One of the shelters also has small lockers to store a helmet and belongings which can be secured by supplying your own padlock. There are also lockers in the main building and construction centre which can be used for a change of clothes etc. If you would like to use the cycle shelters, please call into the Student Experience Zone.

There is a small refundable charge to use these facilities.

By car - Parking Arrangements

Students at the Deane Road Campus are encouraged to use the NCP Bolton Deane Road Car Park behind the main building to reduce illegal parking and causing inconvenience to our neighbours. The postcode of this car park is BL3 5EQ.

You can find out prices for car parking at Deane Road by logging on to www.ncp.co.uk clicking onto ‘Find a car park’ and searching using Bolton Deane Road.

The College has a few spaces for Blue Badge holders on the private car park at the back of the main campus.

These are available from 8.15am each morning and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. On entry to the car park, the Blue Badge Holder will need to drive up to the barrier and press the intercom system and they will be asked to show their Blue Badge.

On leaving the car park they will need to drive to the barrier and it will automatically be raised. Please do not tailgate other cars into or out of the car park.

Student Printing

Each student is awarded a termly £10 purse attached to their ID card for printing.

Print charges are as follows: 5p per black and white sheet and 10p per colour page (double sided prints are charged per side).

If you use up your £10 allowance, you can purchase additional credits via IT Services (Room A2.12).

If you wish to print from “You Own Laptop”, go to your homepage and Click on PRINTING and then Click “Printing from your Own Device”

Our community sites have a limited number of car parking spaces.

Helping You with Your Wellbeing

We want you to do your very best when studying with us and for your future life. We recognise that in order to do this your health and wellbeing needs to be in good shape. Being able to focus, concentrate, get organised and learn well is the key to performing at your best on your course but we recognise that sometimes, things can get in the way.

Here at Bolton College, we provide many opportunities for you to get your head clear, to make friends and have new experiences which build your confidence and belief in yourself – we call this our Wellbeing for Learning and Life Strategy. We will give you opportunities throughout your time with us to reflect on and enhance your wellbeing.

Your teachers, LDMs and Personal Tutors may suggest that you join in with different activities and clubs to promote your wellbeing or that you speak with someone who has specialist knowledge and can support you – go ahead and see the difference it makes to your studying and to your whole life!

Have a look at some of the activities and support available to you to enhance your wellbeing. You can view these on your student homepage.

Enrichment Activities

Enrichment activities give students the opportunity to do something different to their usual classroom and workshop-based activities. They add a different dimension and value to the study-experience of our students.

Curriculum Area Enrichment

Within each curriculum area, Enrichment activities are organised by staff specifically for their students.

These vary from skills competitions; visits to trade exhibitions to keep up to date with the latest developments in a particular industry; university fairs; or events specifically linked to course topics and themes.

Curriculum Area Enrichment is key to preparing you for your next step, whether it's to get a job in a particular industry or to move on up in education.

Cross-College Enrichment

Cross-College Enrichment activities develop your knowledge and skills beyond the subject you are studying. All these activities are based on the NHS ‘5 Ways to Wellbeing’; be active, be mindful, connect with others, give to others, and keep learning. The activities help you to have fun, stay physically and mentally well, and develop transferable skills you can use for learning, life, and work.

Activities in College include events such as Freshers' Fair, visits from external organisations such as the Army, Themed Weeks, where various organisations hold stalls in the Atrium to promote useful and awareness raising information and lunchtime clubs.

There are a variety of daily sports sessions and classes, with the opportunity to represent our College teams in AOC leagues, cups and competitions. All abilities and genders are welcome to participate in the many sports our Enrichment programme provides – come along, meet new friends, and enjoy the fun!

Activities outside of College include a variety of educational, cultural, and fun activity trips. These have included trips to The Anderton Centre, BBC Media City, Liverpool Slavery Museum, the World Museum in Liverpool, Manchester Museum of Science

and Industry, the Octagon Theatre, Manchester Palace Theatre, The National Cycling Centre, Chester Zoo, Blackpool Pleasure Beach and Football Stadium Tours, to name but a few!

Cross-College Enrichment activities are organised by our Enrichment Officer (based in the Student Experience Zone), sport and fitness staff, and staff in the LRCs at our Deane Road Campus.

We value the contribution of students to inform the content of the CrossCollege Enrichment programme, so if you have any suggestions and/or would like to be involved in organising an Enrichment event, please contact our Enrichment Officer via the Student Experience Zone, Deane Road Campus or email enrichment@boltoncc.ac.uk.

The Student Volunteer Group

Are you interested in doing something different; having new experiences and meeting new people in College? If so, then the Student Volunteer Group may be for you!

Becoming a Student Volunteer helps to build your confidence, make new friends, gain valuable work experience and have fun! Examples of volunteering opportunities include meeting and greeting visitors; providing guided tours of the College; aiding staff to care for visitors; and helping events run smoothly.

At the end of the academic year, you will receive a signed certificate, detailing the number of voluntary hours you have completed. It really is a fantastic way to build your CV and show future education institutions or employers your commitment, achievements and skills that you have developed.

For more information, please email enrichment@boltoncc.ac.uk or complete the online application found on your student homepage.

Learner Voice

Learner Voice provides you with the opportunity to have your say about your course and the College facilities, services, policies and procedures.

There are two main parts to Learner Voice – The Learner Forum and the College Forum.

The Learner Forum takes place at least once per term. In this meeting, you and your classmates share your views with your teachers and/or Curriculum Leaders. You then have the opportunity to become a Student Representative and attend the College Forum.

The College Forum also occurs once per term. It is a relaxed meeting in which Student Representatives from all departments discuss cross-College issues (which affect all students, regardless of department) with the Principal, Senior Managers and sometimes College Governors.

As well as attending the Learner and College Forums, you may be asked to take part in focus groups to discuss specific issues and to complete surveys on all aspects of your course and College life.

We want your honest feedback and ideas on how to improve things for you and your fellow students. We make sure you are fully supported to enable you to make your contribution.

Wellbeing at Bolton College

Bolton College is an inclusive College and support is available to anyone with mental health needs who wishes to learn.

The Pastoral and Wellbeing Team will help you to join in College courses with or without support, depending on your individual needs. We work across all College departments to enable a smooth transition into education.

Sampling of courses can be arranged for school leavers to lessen anxiety and help them to make informed choices. As part of this team, we have Wellbeing Mentors who will offer informal support.

Email the team at mental.health@boltoncc.ac.uk to self-refer to the Pastoral and Wellbeing Team.

College Counselling Service

Counselling offers an opportunity for you to talk privately to someone who will listen to you, value you as the person you are and who will not make judgements about you. It offers a safe confidential space within which you can express and explore your thoughts, feelings and concerns.

Counsellors will not give advice as attempting to make decisions for you would be wrong, so with support from your Counsellor, counselling helps you to come to your own decisions on how to move forward. The service is free, confidential, and the sessions are held in comfortable rooms offering a private space to talk.

What type of things do students come to talk about?

• A problem that is affecting you, your home life or your course work

• Being bullied or harassed

• Feeling confused, anxious or generally not coping as normal

• Exploring what the future holds for you and attempting to make changes to your life

Who can use the Counselling Service?

Counselling is available to all students and staff attending courses or working at any College Centre.

How do the meetings take place?

The counselling team have adapted to be able to offer the following methods of

counselling, depending on your personal preference and circumstances.

• Face-to-face counselling

• Face-to-face counselling via Microsoft Teams using Office 365 log in – both video and live chat options

• Telephone counselling –although this is not a preferred option for us

How do I make an Appointment?

Take time to consider which method would suit you best. You can contact the College Counsellors in a variety of ways:

• Emailcounsellingservice.email@ boltoncc.ac.uk

• Pick up a referral form by accessing your home page and using Ask Ada. Complete the referral and return to the email on the form

• Leave your contact number with any member of the Student Experience Team on 01204 482 182 or 01204 482 194 they will ensure that a Counsellor contacts you directly.

•

Care leavers and care experienced students

Bolton College particularly welcomes young people who are Care Leavers or who have recently experienced being in care. If you are young person who has been looked after by the local authority or have recently been in Care, or if someone has been adopted by a family in the past, there is support at College if they would like it.

We understand that young people do not like to be labelled, singled out or be made to feel different in any way, therefore we will work with each person to ensure that any support they receive is delivered sensitively and discreetly.

All our young people in care are linked with a Mentor from the start of the academic year. We can arrange for new students to visit the college and to be shown around before starting.

Our young people who are in care and those leaving care have some entitlements. These students aged 16-18 are usually entitled to a Student Support Allowance and they can find out more about this by contacting the Student Finance Team in the Student Experience Zone.

It is also mandatory for these students to have a termly Personal Education Plan (PEP) Meeting when they come to College. PEP meetings are set up with the student, their social worker, their teachers and a Review Co-Ordinator at College. They are designed to check how College is going for the student; to see if anything needs to be changed to help their progress and also to plan ahead for their future.

If a student needs to link up with their social worker or they need to talk about any issue which may be affecting them – they can speak to their teacher directly or they can contact their allocated Mentor.

What support is College offering to LGBTQ+ students?

Bolton College is a friendly and inclusive place where we want all our students to feel safe and at home.

We are incredibility proud to have recently achieved the Rainbow Flag Award. This is an award which recognises us an LQBTQ+ inclusive college where all are welcomed and feel a sense of belonging. We achieved all 6 quality standards, which are:

Students aged 18 and over can also join the Bolton University LGBT+ Society via this link

www.facebook.com/ groups/700648043463563/

We have set up a LGBTQ+ Group for students at Bolton College, so that they can share ideas and experiences as well as feel part of a wider social College community. We meet every Friday at 1pm and would be thrilled if anyone interested wanted to come along. You will see signs around the College for the room to go to.

If you want to get in contact or ask any questions, we have a dedicated email you can message:

LGBT@Boltoncc.ac.uk

Bolton LGBT (Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender) Support and Youth Group

This group meets at Bolton Library every second and fourth Monday of the month, 4.30pm-6.30pm. The group is for anyone aged 13-25 who is LGBT+ or questioning their sexuality or gender identity. The youth group organises fun things to do, arts, crafts, sports, weekends and trips away and supports LGBT+ young people.

Phone/text: 07834 168 128 or email: sam.cresswell@theproudtrust.org

To find out more www.theproudtrust.org

Multi-Faith Chaplaincy

Chaplains representing several churches and places of worship are available to support you if you wish. Contact the Enrichment Officer at the Deane Road Campus and they will be happy to put you in touch with one of our Chaplains.

Lawrence Aboagye is available to speak to students by request. Please email enrichment@boltoncc.ac.uk to make an appointment.

Our Muslim Chaplain, Imam Hassan Yusuf, offers Friday prayers in the Quiet Room A1.61 from 12.30pm during winter and 2.30pm during summer. Lawrence and Hassan are friendly and ready to listen to you without making judgements.

Quiet Room

There is a Quiet Room (Room A1.61) at the Deane Road Campus for staff and students to use for prayer or quiet contemplation/meditation. There is keypad access to this room, and staff and students can collect the code from main reception. At our other campuses, please ask at the main reception if you require a place for quiet reflection or prayer.

Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy Commercial Salon Services

The Hairdressing and Beauty Academy at Bolton College offers a wide range of treatments from Monday to Friday for both students and the general public. The salons provide an ambitious range of professional treatments that reflect the salons on the high street but without the premium price tag. The Academy is a training environment and the treatments are undertaken by Hairdressing, Barbering, Nail, Make-up, Complementary and Beauty Therapy students showcasing their skills under the strict supervision and guidance of our experienced teachers. The students, as budding professionals on their programmes, are required to complete treatments on clients as part of their practical application assessments, delivering a top-class service within a sophisticated and relaxing salon environment.

The Beauty and Holistic Therapy treatments offered include some of the following: facial, body, nail treatments, make-up, lash treatments and waxing, as well as the more specialised treatments, which include aromatherapy, reflexology and micro pigmentation.

The Hairdressing salon has been awarded the Wella Centre of Excellence status which is only awarded to institutions that have achieved the highest standard for training. The Hairdressing and Barbering services include some of the following services: styling, shaving, cutting, colouring and perming.

If you want a new look or just an opportunity to pamper yourself and relax come along and speak to the Hair and Beauty receptionist who will advise you accordingly.

College Partners

The College has strong links with specialist organisations that can help students with a range of issues outside of their studies:

360° Young Person’s Substance Misuse Service

The Parallel, 9A Churchgate, Bolton, BL1 1HU

Call 01204 337 330 or 01204 462 444

Monday - Friday, 9am-5pm

ACHIEVE Bolton

Adult Substance Misuse Service

Beacon House 69 - 73 Manchester Road, Bolton, BL2 1ES Call 01204 483 090

Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm.

The Parallel

Young People’s Health Centre

9A, Churchgate, Bolton, BL1 1HU

Call 01204 462 444

Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm

MhIST

Mental Health Independent Support Team

Hanover House, Hanover Street, Bolton, BL1 4TG

Contact MHIST using their website: www.mhist.co.uk

Under 18s homelessness

If students are 16 or 17 then they have to be referred through to the Bolton Integrated Front Door which is part of Children’s Services Team if they have a homelessness issue. This is even if they have never had any involvement with them before. The Integrated Front Door Team deal with all homeless referrals for under 18s in Bolton. They will assess the student and discuss housing options available e.g.,, mediation with parents/carers; emergency hostel accommodation; social housing and supported accommodation.

Ask the College Safeguarding Team if you find yourself homeless.

If the student finds themselves homeless out of office hours, contact the Emergency Duty Team on 01204 337 777

Over 18s Homelessness

Housing Options Team

Ground Floor at Bolton Town Hall Call 01204 335 900

Monday - Thursday, 9.30am-12.30pm, 1.30pm-4.30pm.

Friday, 9.30am-12.30pm, 1.30pm-4pm.

Outside of office hours speak with the Emergency Duty Social Work Team01204 337 777

Connexions Bolton – The BASE, Marsden Road, Bolton, BL1 2PF

The BASE, Marsden Road, Bolton, BL1 2PF

Careers Information, Advice and Guidance call 0800 0525 559 or email: cx.boltoncentre@bolton.gov.uk

Monday to Friday, 1pm - 4pm, and works with young people aged 16-19 (up to 25 for SEND people)

Safeguarding

You might hear the word “safeguarding” when you are at College and it simply means “keeping our students safe”. The College employ a team of people who all work together to help keep students safe during their time with us e.g.,, the College Safeguarding Team; College Counsellors; Security Team; Caretakers and Cleaners; Fire Wardens; First Aiders; Teachers; Support Tutors; Support Workers, LDMs; and Student Mentors. In fact, all staff are involved and trained in keeping students safe. There are several aspects to safeguarding:

• Ensuring that we comply with health and safety regulations and procedures e.g., making sure that we have fire drills and lockdown drills regularly; making sure students wear their personal protective equipment when tackling tasks which have some physical risks attached; ensuring that machines are operated safely; and that electrical equipment is PAT tested regularly.

• Making sure that only students and those authorised for entry to College can come into our buildings e.g., Security Team check ID Pass, and we ask all our staff and students to wear their IDs at all times so we can easily identify “strangers” and deal with them accordingly.

• Ensuring all our young people aged under 18 and our adult students who have additional needs, are free from abuse and exploitation.

Abuse and exploitation can take many forms. It may be:

1. Physical e.g., punching, hitting, assaulting, kicking.

2. Emotional e.g., threats of harm, humiliation or blaming, controlling, intimidation, coercion, indifference, harassment.

3. Sexual e.g., rape, indecent exposure, sexual harassment, inappropriate looking or touching, sexual teasing or innuendo, sexual exploitation, sexual photography, sexting.

4. Financial e.g., theft, fraud, internet scamming, coercion in relation to an adult’s financial affairs, bank accounts or arrangements, including in connection with wills, property, inheritance or financial transactions, or the misappropriation of property, possessions or benefits.

5. Neglect e.g., ignoring medical or physical care needs, failure to provide access to appropriate health, social care, or educational services, the withholding of the necessities of life, such as medication, adequate nutrition and heating.

Domestic Violence

e.g., incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse by someone who is or has been an intimate partner or family member regardless of gender or sexuality.

Forced Marriage

e.g., where one or both of the parties is married without their consent or against their will. A forced marriage differs from an arranged marriage, in which both parties consent to the assistance of their parents or a third party in identifying a spouse.

Modern Slavery

e.g., slavery, human trafficking, forced labour and domestic servitude.

Organisational Abuse/Poor Professional Practice

e.g., a service that denies, restricts or curtails the dignity, privacy, choice, independence or fulfilment of people in any setting providing health or social care.

Discriminatory Abuse

e.g., discriminatory and oppressive attitudes towards people on the grounds of disability, gender reassignment, age, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation, and political beliefs.

Self-neglect

e.g., this covers a wide range of behaviour neglecting to care for one’s own personal hygiene, health or surroundings and includes behaviour such as hoarding.

Honour-based Violence

e.g., this may happen to someone when their family feels that dishonour has been brought onto them. Domestic violence and abuse, concerns about forced marriage, enforced house arrest and missing persons’ reports may form part of honour based violence. Honour based violence is also evident in gangrelated activity and county lines activity where young people are threatened with violence unless they obey the gang’s code of behaviour.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

e.g., procedures which include the removal of part or all of the external female genitalia for cultural or other non-therapeutic reasons. The practice is medically unnecessary, extremely painful and has serious health consequences, both at the time when the mutilation is carried out and in later life.

Human Trafficking

e.g., this involves recruiting, transporting, transferring, harbouring or receiving a person through force, coercion or other means, for the purpose of exploiting them.

Exploitation by Radicalisers who Promote Violence

e.g., this is the process by which people come to support terrorism and violent extremism and, in some cases, to then participate in terrorist groups. Sometimes the internet is used to persuade people to join violent extremist groups and sometimes it’s through personal contact with radical extremists.

ICT Abuse

e.g., using social media, the internet and phones, computers and mobile devices to show content and deliver communications that may be harmful to others such as cyberbullying; sexting or photos, videos and text which is illegal or damages a person’s wellbeing.

Upskirting

This practice typically involves taking a picture under a person’s clothing without them knowing, with the intention of viewing their genitals or buttocks. Some people in the past have seen this as a joke or a prank but it causes a great deal of distress and upset to victims and since April 2019 “upskirting” has become a criminal offence, with offenders facing up to 2 years in jail and being placed on the sex offenders register.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)

Both CSE and CCE are forms of abuse and both occur where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance in power to force, manipulate or deceive a child (anyone under the age of 18) into sexual or criminal activity. In some cases, the abuse will be in exchange for something the victim needs or wants and/or will be to the financial benefit or other advantage (such as increased status) of the perpetrator.

Child on Child Abuse

Young people can abuse other young people. This is generally referred to as child on child abuse and can take many forms. This can include (but is not limited to) bullying (including cyberbullying);

sexual violence and sexual harassment; physical abuse such as hitting, kicking, shaking, biting, hair pulling, or otherwise causing physical harm; sexting and initiating/hazing type violence and rituals.

Sexual Harassment

and

Violence this is unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, it can occur online and offline. Some examples would include sexual comments, sexual ‘jokes’ and physical behavior such as touching someone. Sexual violence can be a criminal offence and relates to conduct towards another person without consent such as rape and sexual assault.

If you are being affected by one of these issues or you are worried about a friend in College and feel they are being affected by one of these issues, you can contact the College Safeguarding Team directly in Room A1.17, by phone 01204 482 199 or email safeguarding@boltoncc.ac.uk

If you prefer you can speak to your teacher, LDM, Personal Tutor or a member of staff you trust – all our staff have been trained in safeguarding and you will be listened to properly. We will support you and your friends with any of these issues and ensure you and they are safe. Alternatively, serious issues such as these can be reported directly to services outside of College via the local and national website contacts below:

www.bolton.gov.uk/website/pages/ Safeguardingadultsatrisk.aspx

www.boltonsafeguardingchildren.org. uk/worried-child

www.gov.uk/stop-forced-marriage

A Message from Greater Manchester Police: Stay Safe at College

Bolton is a safe place to study, live and work. However, it is important not to get complacent. By taking a few simple precautions in your home and while travelling, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime:

• Keep your laptop, car keys, smartphones and other valuables out of sight and never leave them unattended

• Write your postcode on your valuables using a UV pen and register them on: www.immobilise. com

• Be aware of your surroundings when you have your headphones on or you are talking on your mobile phone. Walk facing the traffic so a car cannot suddenly pull up behind you

• Keep a record of your mobile phone’s IMEI number as you will need this if it is stolen - press *#06# into your keypad or ring your network provider

• Install a tracking app on your phone

• If your phone is stolen, call your network, tell them and ask for it to be blocked

• Don’t be an easy target. Travel in groups at night and arrange a meeting place to avoid getting lost.

• Stick to well-lit areas and avoid shortcuts

• If you want to travel by taxi, use a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle from a recognised firm or official taxi rank. You should only ever flag down a black cab. You will need to book a private hire cab with the company

• If you want to travel by public transport, plan your journey. Visit journey planner at www.tfgm.com

• Try not to use a cash point late at night or in a deserted place and never count money in the street – put it away immediately. Always keep your PIN out of sight. Stop, look and check the machine for anything unusual. If you have any doubts do not use it

• The threat we face from terrorism is real. If you are concerned about somebody you know there are options open to you. You can contact the anti-terror hotline free on 0800 789 or you can speak to a member of the College Safeguarding Team, you can find us in Room A1.17. You can also speak to your teacher

To call the Police use the following numbers:

Non-Emergency calls 101 Emergency calls ONLY 999

What We Expect of You

Positive Behaviour Policy

Positive Behaviour Agreement sets out what the College will give the students and what the College staff expect from the students in return.

Positive Behaviour Agreements are documents which are signed by students in class at the beginning of their studies. They support students to become successful in their studies and help prepare them for the work environment.

We will:

• Treat you fairly and with respect and courtesy

• Do all we can to prepare you for your next steps to employment or further learning

• Have high expectations for what you can achieve

• Understand your learning needs and make sure you have the support you need to reach your goals

• Make sure your learning is engaging and enjoyable

• Make sure you stay on track to achieve your goals

• Help you improve your English and maths

• Ensure your safety and security

• Listen to your views on how we can improve further

• Provide opportunities to enjoy activities outside class time

We expect you to:

• Make the most of the opportunities provided for you by the College

• Work hard to achieve your goals and fulfil your potential

• Come prepared for learning

• Attend all your classes on time

• Wear your ID Pass at all times on College sites

• Abide by class rules regarding the use of mobile devices

• Show respect to others at all times

• Use respectful language with others in our College community

• Respect the College environment and help us to keep it clean and safe

• Adhere to the College’s No Smoking Policy

• Comply with the College’s zero tolerance approach to drugs and alcohol

Education and Workplace Standards

In the classroom and on your work experience or industrial placement, we have some standards which will help you get the most from your studies with us.

• Attend all your classes

• Be prepared

• Come on time

• Bring pens and the right equipment to class

• Switch off your mobiles or have them on silent

• Dress appropriately

Behaviour for the Workplace

√ Come with a positive attitude √ Work flexibly √ Pay attention

√ Meet your deadlines

√ Work with classroom colleagues as a team

√ Take pride in your work

Improving Your Skills

√ Learn from your feedback

√ Ask for help when you need it/offer help when you can

√ Reflect on what you can do to improve your skills

√ Always do the best you can

And please be ready to tell us about your next steps after the course has finished!

Key Policies and Procedures

The College has several key policies and procedures in place which are designed to promote a positive and comfortable learning environment for all. They also ensure that students, staff and visitors to the College remain safe at all times.

Attendance and Punctuality

Bolton College has an Attendance and Punctuality Policy which applies to all students undertaking courses at all of Bolton College’s campuses and hubs.

The College expects students to attend all their lessons, whether they are classroom based or in directed study, as this is critical to your success in learning. The College expects all its students to recognise that good attendance and punctuality, along with working hard, will maximise your achievement and enhance not only the learning experience but also in addition, develop your employability skills. Many employers and universities request details of attendance in references.

This policy also applies to workplace learning.

All students should have 100% attendance and punctuality. We recognise that life events can have a negative impact but we do become extremely concerned when attendance falls below 95%.

Genuine long-term absences will be fairly assessed and monitored by department managers. Attendance Offices will contact students and the parents of those under 18 after any unexplained absence from learning.

Students’ Responsibilities

All students are expected to:

• Attend all of their timetabled sessions which make up their learning programme

• Return promptly after any timetabled break. Failure to do so will result in a late mark being recorded in the register. Three late marks will trigger an intervention from the teacher. This will be recorded on ProMonitor

• Obtain permission from the class teacher at the start of the session if required to leave class earlier than set finishing time (attendance will be recorded on register)

• Arrive at the start of the sessions

properly equipped and prepared

• Enter the class quietly with minimum disruption to the session and explain to the teacher at an appropriate point

• Contact the Attendance Helpline (number on the ID Pass) by 8.30am on their first day of absence explaining their absence and indicating its duration. Leave a message if unable to get through

• Inform their LDM/class teacher if a prolonged absence is planned to discuss the possibility of an alternative study arrangement. In addition, students can contact the Student Experience Zone, if they wish to discuss reasons for prolonged absence, and where additional support can be offered

• Arrange medical appointments, driving lessons, and any other appointments that are nonemergency in their own time

• Ensure that any part-time work undertaken outside their College programme does not clash with their timetabled sessions

The College’s Positive Behaviour Policy will be explored with students who consistently breach these responsibilities. Each case of absenteeism is different and will be treated individually. The College accepts that many valid causes of absenteeism exist and will work with students on an individual basis to best address the needs and wants of each student.

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Policy Statement - Our commitment

Policy Statement - Our commitment

Bolton College is committed to the promotion and development of equality of opportunity, valuing and celebrating the diversity of all of our staff and students and being inclusive to all of the College’s communities. This is reflected in the College’s mission statement:

Bolton College is committed to the promotion and development of equality of opportunity, valuing and celebrating the diversity of all of our staff and students and being inclusive to all of the College’s communities. This is reflected in the College’s mission statement:

‘Bolton Collegewill enable individuals, businesses and communities within Bolton and the CityRegion to realise their potential through education and training that is inclusive, inspiring, innovative and responsive to theirneeds.’

‘Bolton College will enable individuals, businesses and communities within Bolton and the City Region to realise their potential through education and training that is inclusive, inspiring, innovative and responsive to their needs.’

Bolton College recognises the value of education in transforming people’s lives and we actively embrace our role in the promotion of educational opportunities for all. The College’s values also underline an ongoing commitment to the continued embedding of a culture that embraces and celebrates equality, diversity and inclusion:

Bolton College recognises the value of education in transforming people’s lives and we actively embrace our role in the promotion of educational opportunities for all. The College’s Values also underline an ongoing commitment to the continued embedding of a culture that embraces and celebrates equality, diversity and inclusion:

• Excellence in all we do

• Ensuring learning and the student are at the heart of everything we do

• Excellence in all we do

• Ensuring learning and the learner are at the heart of everything we do

• Equality of opportunity and celebration of diversity

• Serving our community

• Honesty and professionalism

• Equality of opportunity and celebration of diversity

• Caring for the environment and the communities we serve

• Serving our community

• Honesty and professionalism

• Caring for the environment and the communities we serve

We provide a safe and supportive environment for all, which values individuals equally, regardless of your age, gender or cultural background.

We provide a safe and supportive environment for all, which values individuals equally, regardless of:

• Age

• Sex

• Disability

• Race

• Gender reassignment

• Marriage / Civil partnership

• Faith, religion or belief

• Sexual orientation or re-orientation

• Pregnancy and maternity

Bolton College plays an integral role in promoting social inclusion both within the College community and within the wider Bolton context and its diverse communities, and we work collaboratively with a range of community organisations and other partners to tackle social exclusion, address discrimination and promote community cohesion. The College is responsive to the needs of the local community and the success of all our students is at the heart of everything we do.

Bolton College plays an integral role in promoting social inclusion both within the college community and within the wider Bolton context and its diverse communities, and we work collaboratively with a range of community organisations and other partners to tackle social exclusion, address discrimination and promote community cohesion. The College is responsive to the needs of the local community and the success of all our learners is at the heart of everything we do.

We are home to people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds with diverse beliefs, values and abilities. We celebrate diversity and aim to meet the needs of all individuals and encourage them to share their experiences and beliefs. We are highly inclusive and committed to reducing gaps in attainment amongst individuals from all backgrounds, including those who have not traditionally accessed education or training.

Bolton College is committed to the promotion and development of equality of opportunity, valuing and celebrating the diversity of all of our staff and students and being inclusive to all of the College’s communities. This is reflected in the College’s mission statement:

We welcome students and staff with learning difficulties or disabilities and support them in accordance of their needs. We want everyone to feel comfortable and secure enough to be themselves; we do not tolerate harassment, bullying, victimisation or discrimination.

‘We are home to people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds with diverse beliefs, values and abilities. We celebrate diversity and aim to meet the needs of all individuals and encourage

Shared values and expectations

Bolton College will strive to provide an effective and meaningful learning and teaching experience for all our students, whatever their background.

We aim to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where prejudice and discrimination has no place. We value the individuality of all students and staff, recognise differences and work hard to ensure that each individual feels safe, at home and valued.

Bolton College has a group of staff who also act as Diversity Champions. It is their job to make sure equality and diversity is respected, promoted and celebrated in College life. They also organise our hugely popular Diversity Festival which takes place every Winter in the College. This is an event where students, staff and local community groups contribute to a celebration of the different values and cultures that comprise our student life.

• Ensuring our student policies are fit-for-purpose and reviewing them regularly

• Acting swiftly to challenge and eliminate prejudice, bullying or harassment

• Listening to student opinions about how we can further improve student experience

• Monitoring data on student achievement and taking action if we find some groups of students are less successful than others

• Using a variety of different methods to attract and retain students from all backgrounds

• Complying with all equalitiesrelated legislation

• Making reasonable adjustments for students with particular needs

• Encouraging open, honest discussion about issues which support students’ educational attainment

• Continuing to develop a learning community that is reflective of Bolton and Greater Manchester’s diversity mix

As a College we are absolutely committed to:

Fitness to Study Policy and Procedure

The College is wholeheartedly committed to supporting students and recognises the importance of their health and wellbeing in relation to their academic progress and College experience. Students (and their parents/carers for those under 18 and/or who may have additional needs) are expected to take a proactive part in the process, by managing their own health and wellbeing and engaging with any support, in order to fulfil their academic potential.

There may be instances where the health and/or wellbeing of a student deteriorate to a point where it raises questions about their fitness and suitability to continue with their studies at the College.

This Policy and Procedure will be used to support staff in all areas of the College to

deal with instances where concerns have been expressed over a student’s health, wellbeing or behaviour, which have led to:

a) b)

concerns from staff about a student’s fitness to study at the College and/or the ability to meet the learning outcomes of the course, notwithstanding reasonable adjustments which have been made a negative impact on the health, safety, wellbeing and/or learning of the student and/or others with whom s/he has contact

This Procedure has three stages, based on the level of support needed by the student and/or the seriousness of risk posed by the health and/or behaviour of a student. Depending on the concern raised, it may be appropriate to move straight to a higher level. Students are

encouraged to engage with the College and access all support available to them. If they choose not to do so, then this Procedure may continue without their involvement.

Meetings will take place which involve the student (their parents where appropriate), teachers, College support staff, Managers from academic departments, Head of Learner Support and the Student Experience Manager to determine the best and most practicable way forward for the student, the College and its community.

Smoke Free Policy

All students at Bolton College are required to subscribe to the Smoke Free Policy. The College does not permit smoking in any of its premises and buildings. Some Centres have shelters which may be used by smokers, but other Centres are completely smoke-free and no smoking is permitted in or around the Centre.

The use of e-cigarettes is not permitted in/on College premises; only in designated areas.

IT Responsible Use/Acceptable Use Policy

You will have to agree to comply with the College’ IT Responsible Use Policy if you want to use the College’s computer hardware and software or network facilities.

The Policy covers a range of issues including unacceptable access and use of the internet and email, downloading materials and copyright issues.

You will be made aware of the Policy when you first log-on to the College IT system.

The Policy is also available in College Learning Resource Centres (LRCs).

Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policy

Bullying and harassment is defined as any conduct which is unwanted by the recipient, or any such conduct which affects the dignity of any individual or groups of individuals. Bullying or harassment may be repetitive or an isolated occurrence.

It may be:

• Physical – contact, assault, gestures, intimidation or aggressive behaviour

• Verbal – unwelcome remarks, suggestions, propositions, malicious gossip, jokes or banter

• Non-verbal – offensive literature, pictures or photographs, graffiti, computer/social media imagery, comments or phone texts, isolation or non-cooperation, or exclusion from social activities

• Persistent, offensive, abusive, intimidating or insulting behaviour; abuse of power; or unfair sanctions which make the recipient feel upset, threatened, humiliated or vulnerable

If you feel you are being bullied or harassed, keep a note of the date, time, place, name of the person who is bullying/harassing you, what happened, how you felt at the time, name of any witnesses, action taken and whether you reported it and to whom.

You should also keep a record of any written evidence or social media/text

evidence relating to the incident and any subsequent incidents.

You should report any incident of bullying or harassment to your teacher, a member of staff who you trust, or a member of the Safeguarding Team via the Student Experience Zone at Deane Road Campus.

An investigation will then take place, and you will receive support whilst the issue is being resolved.

Those behaving in a manner that is regarded as bullying or harassment may face sanctions under the Positive Behaviour Policy and Procedure.

Drugs & Alcohol Policy

The taking of, dealing in, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol is strictly forbidden in the College. If any staff member suspects that you are under the influence of alcohol and/ or drugs, you will be asked to leave the College premises immediately (for under 18’s, College will call your parents/carers to ask that they collect you) and it is likely that you will be subject to the Positive Behaviour Policy and Procedures.

If we suspect that you have been selling or supplying controlled drugs at the College or if you bring them onto the College premises, you will be immediately suspended, the Positive Behaviour Policy and Procedure will be invoked and the Police will be called to investigate.

We recognize that many people who have ongoing issues with substance misuse, have been impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s). If you wish to discuss drug/alcohol misuse issues with someone, contact your LDM, Personal Tutor or teacher who can arrange to see you for a one-to one discussion.

Alternatively, you can log on to www.talktofrank.com for more information.

Your Health and Safety Responsibilities

When attending Bolton College, all students have a duty to take reasonable care for the health and safety of both themselves and others who may be affected by their actions. This will require all students to:

• Observe all instructions, whether written or verbal, to ensure personal safety and the safety of others

• Conduct themselves at all times in an orderly manner and refrain from any form of horseplay that could cause injury to themselves and/or others

• Treat the building structures and internal fixtures, fittings and furniture with respect and care

• Use all safety equipment and/or protective clothing as instructed,

reporting any loss or defect to their teacher/lecturer

• Not interfere or misuse any equipment provided for health and safety purposes (criminal offence)

• Report all hazards to their teacher

• Report all accidents or near miss incidents to their teacher, whether injury is sustained or not

• Be familiar with the emergency evacuation procedure, and the location of fire alarm points and emergency equipment

As part of your health and safety responsibilities, students should adhere to the Smoke Free Policy (this includes the use of e-cigarettes, smoking of any e-cigarettes inside College is not allowed,) same applies to Drugs and Alcohol Policy and Fire and Emergency Procedures including the Emergency Lockdown Procedures.

Fire and Emergency Procedures

It is the responsibility of all students to familiarise themselves with and adhere to the College fire/emergency procedures.

Action to be taken by a student discovering a fire:

• Raise alarm by operating the nearest break glass call point

• Following alarm activation, key evacuation personnel will investigate the cause of the alarm and, where necessary, contact the Fire Brigade

• If you are in any doubt you can notify the Fire Brigade directly by dialing 999

• Do not attempt to tackle the fire unless your escape route is blocked

On hearing the fire alarm:

• Leave the building immediately by the nearest safe emergency exit. Do not use any lifts and do not stop to collect personal belongings

• Close all doors and windows when leaving

• Remember that you may not be allowed to re-enter the building, so it is advisable always to carry your car keys, wallet and phone with you to ensure that you can get home

• Report to the appropriate Fire Assembly Point and register with your teacher

• Remain at the Fire Assembly Point and await further instructions

• Do NOT re-enter the building until you are instructed to do so

Evacuation Procedures for Students with Disabilities and/or Learning Difficulties

On hearing the fire alarm:

• From ground floor areas with direct access to assembly points, students with reduced mobility or those requiring assistance should be escorted by the teacher or volunteer buddy to the Fire Assembly Point

• From upper floor areas, students with reduced mobility or those requiring assistance should be escorted by the teacher or volunteer buddy to the nearest refuge point

• Once the escape route is clear from obstructions and it is safe to do so, the most able students with a disability or students with a learning difficulty shall be assisted down the stairs and to the appropriate assembly point

• The volunteer buddy should remain with the wheelchair user in the safety of the refuge until the arrival of the Emergency Services or College staff

• Visually-impaired students should be escorted to their designated assembly point by their teacher, unit staff and/or by their volunteer buddy. In addition to the operation of the fire alarm sounders, visual alerts will illuminate throughout the College buildings

• Teachers and support staff will accompany D/deaf students when they evacuate to their dedicated assembly point

• Once accounted for, all students

with learning difficulties and/or disabilities should remain at their Fire Assembly Point and await further instructions. No student should re-enter the building until they are instructed to do so

• Fire Alarm Sounder Testing will take place on Tuesday mornings between 7.15am-8.45am. Fire Alarm Drills will take place throughout the year

False Alarms and Malicious Acts

Raising a false alarm is a very serious breach of the Health and Safety Regulations. Any student found deliberately setting off the fire alarms without good reason will be subject to the Behaviour for Success Policy and Procedure.

It is a criminal offence under the Health and Safety at Work Act to knowingly damage or interfere with any equipment provided in the interest of Health and Safety.

Reporting Accidents and Incidents

Know the location and contact details for your nearest First Aider. In the event of an accident or incident, students must report it to their teacher or to the College reception.

Once reported, a College Accident/ Incident Form must be completed by a First Aider, your teacher or a member of staff.

This will then be forwarded to the College Health and Safety Department. An investigation will be conducted to see how and why the accident/incident occurred. Once the investigation has taken place, control measures will be implemented to prevent the accident/ incident from occurring again.

Lifting and Carrying

Students should not lift or carry any heavy or awkward items unless they are instructed to do so and have been provided with appropriate training.

Using Electrical Equipment

Remember, electricity can kill. Treat it with great care. No portable electrical equipment belonging to a student may be used on College premises, unless they have permission and/or it has been inspected by an authorised member of staff.

The use of certain specific electrical equipment and machinery will only be appropriate when students have received appropriate training and information. Students should read all instructions carefully before using the electrical equipment. If you do not understand, ask your teacher, technician or another member of College staff.

Students should report any damaged electrical equipment to the nearest teacher or member of staff.

Accident forms should not be completed by the injured person.

Specialist Areas

Certain areas of the College, such as workshops and laboratories, have specific Health and Safety rules and regulations.

Where these rules and regulations are needed, they MUST be adhered to at all times. Failure to do so will result in you being refused access to work in that area.

Working in Construction/ Engineering/Motor Vehicle/ Catering Workshops

Great care should be taken by all students when using any machinery to avoid both personal injury and damage to equipment.

Codes of Practice have been established and must be strictly observed when using items of workshop equipment.

Students must never use any item of work equipment or machinery without the appropriate protective devices, guards or interlocks in place.

Any student found removing or causing damage to a guard or device will be Subject to the Positive Behaviour Policy.

Students should report any defects found on a guard or interlock immediately to a member of staff. Where machinery is in use, arrangements must be made so that a second person is within direct or close proximity and could be called upon should an emergency arise. Rowdiness and practical joking are very dangerous behaviours in the workshop environment and are strictly forbidden.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Specific tasks require that students wear personal protective equipment.

Students will be provided with personal protective equipment and training in accordance with College Policy. All instructions for use and care of PPE must be followed.

Working with Chemicals

Never deliberately taste, swallow or inhale any hazardous substance or chemical. All hazardous substances or chemicals should be regarded as toxic by ingestion; hence pipetting liquids or solutions by mouth is strictly prohibited. Use a pipette pump, syringe or a mechanical dispenser.

Chemicals can also enter the body through skin absorption, punctured skin ingestion and through accidental inhalation of vapours or dusts. Suitable protective equipment must therefore be worn when handling chemicals. Cuts and wounds are particularly vulnerable and may allow direct entry of chemical substances into the bloodstream.

Broken skin should be covered with a suitable dressing, but if the wound is on the hand, then the dressing should be waterproof and protective gloves must be worn while handling chemicals. Always wash your hands before touching other parts of your body, especially the area around the eyes, or before taking food.

Never smoke, eat or drink in the presence of chemicals.

Vandalism of College property

Any person found willfully vandalising/ misusing College property will be subject to the College’s Positive Behaviour Policy and Procedure and will be charged for the damage to be repaired.

CCTV is in operation throughout the building, internally and externally, and is recording 24/7.

Police may be called in serious cases and the College may also choose to prosecute.

Security and Safety

To ensure the safety and security of yourself, others and the premises you are required at all times when on College premises to wear your ID Pass and be ready to produce it if asked by a College staff member.

You must only use the designated access and egress routes associated to the buildings you are accessing for study.

All students at Bolton College are required to subscribe to standards of behaviour, (similar to those when someone is at work) specified in Positive Behaviour Policy and Procedure.

CCTV is in operation throughout the building, internally and externally, and is recording 24/7.

Lockdown Policy and Procedures

As part of the Health and Safety Policy and Procedures, the College has a Lockdown Policy and Procedure. The Lockdown Policy and Procedure applies to all College sites. Lockdown procedures are seen as a sensible and proportionate response to any external or internal incident which has the potential to pose a serious threat to the safety of students, staff and visitors in the College.

Lockdown procedures may be activated in response to any number of situations, but some of the more typical might be:

• A reported incident/civil disturbance in the local community with the potential to pose a risk to staff and students at College

• An intruder on the College site with the potential to pose a significant risk (use of weapons) or a terror related attack

• A warning received of a local risk e.g., air pollution or gas cloud.

• A major fire in the vicinity of the College

Staff will be notified that lockdown procedures are to immediately take place and they will direct students to ensure they are safeguarded.

The basic message from the Police is that in the event of lockdown, all staff and students should: Run, Hide and Tell.

RUN to a place of safety rather than surrender or negotiate e.g., to a classroom or office in College which can be locked and the windows will be locked down too. No one should move from the room unless told to do so. If there is nowhere to run to...

HIDE

It’s better to hide than confront. Turn mobile phones to silent and turn off vibrate, and turn all lights, computer screens and equipment off. Classrooms and offices will be barricaded if possible and all those inside should hide under desks and away from doors and windows wherever possible. Stay hidden until you are told it is safe to move.

TELL If you are in College when the lockdown procedures are enforced, College staff will tell the emergency services on 999.

If you are outside the premises – contact emergency services but only when you are sure it is completely safe to do so.

Positive Behaviour Policy and Procedure

The Positive Behaviour Policy aims to support every student throughout their time at the College and to promote positive behaviour across the College at all times. We believe such behaviour will produce a climate conducive to learning for all students.

Outstanding teaching, learning and assessment can only take place in an atmosphere of calm and order in which students are prepared and ready to learn. Students must be clear about their rights and responsibilities as members of the College community; they must know what is expected of them as well as the consequences of not meeting College expectations.

If it is thought that a student is not meeting College expectations, then staff may discuss issues which are causing concern with them informally to try to ensure that the student changes their behaviour.

The College has a trauma-informed approach to presenting behaviour which means ensuring that every effort is made to understand what is happening for the student and seek to intervene in a supportive manner where possible thus avoiding the need for formal procedures. However, if no improvement is forthcoming, then the formal Positive Behaviour Policy will be invoked. This is a four-part process – allegation, investigation, hearing and outcome. There will be no pre-judgement of outcome.

In cases where the outcome is that the student is deemed to be non-compliant with the standard of behaviour required, they will be subject to the following four stage process:

1. Initial Interventions (Teacher/WBT)Interim interventions

2. Curriculum Leader Hearing - Interim interventions

3. Head of Area Hearing - Interim interventions

4. Senior Manager Hearing

A student may proceed through the stages of the Positive Behaviour Policy by failure to recover their position at a previous stage or by continued lapses and/or incidents. In some cases, the seriousness of the incident indicates that it will be treated at a certain level, e.g., Theft at Level 4.

A student subject to the Positive Behaviour Policy stages 1-4 has the Right of Appeal within 10 days of the student receiving the warning.

All students have the right to be accompanied by a parent/guardian, friend or advocate at any meeting or students can request that a member of the Pastoral and Wellbeing Team acts as your advocate. The parents/guardians of students up to the age of 18 will be informed in writing at all stages of the procedure and copied into all correspondence sent to students.

Disciplinary hearings will be recorded on ProMonitor. The Positive Behaviour Policy also recognises that the vast majority of our students behave in a positive, cooperative and work-ready manner. Through the Policy, staff are encouraged to formally acknowledge these positive instances of behaviour in and around College, on ProMonitor.

Making Complaints & Comments

Bolton College welcomes feedback from students, employers and members of the public about courses, services, facilities and other matters for which the College is responsible.

All formal complaints will be fully investigated and our aim is to respond quickly, positively and to reach an outcome that is satisfactory and fair for all concerned. The information gained as a result of these investigations will be used in the pursuit of corrective action and/or continual improvement. It is always our aim to manage issues and complaints in a way that is sensitive to the needs of individuals and groups and supportive of Bolton College’s goal of providing excellent customer service, every time.

Complaints, concerns and comments must initially be raised through informal channels which we expect would usually lead to a resolution.

This can be done by:

• Speaking to a teacher, manager or member of staff who represents the department of the College about which you have an issue or concern

• Speaking to a Curriculum Leader or Head of Area

• Discussing with the Student Experience Team

• Email your suggestions for improvement to our Customer Services Manager at: customer.services@boltoncc.ac.uk

However, if you feel it is necessary to pursue a complaint formally, you can be assured that we will treat it seriously and impartially.

A formal complaint should be made in the following way:

After initially raising informally with a teacher, Curriculum Leader or Head of Area, you may find that the matter can be resolved at this stage.

However, if that is not the case you should then:

• Complete our online complaint form www.boltonCollege.ac.uk/aboutus/customer-services/making-acomplaint/

• Visit the Student Experience Zone or the Principalship office for assistance and to complete a complaint form digitally

Complaints about Higher Education and Non-Prescribed HE courses

There is a separate complaints procedure for students on any Higher Level 4 courses, including all HNCs/ HNDs/Foundation Degrees/Higher Apprenticeships.

For these courses please direct complaints initially to the appropriate Head of Area and TBA@boltoncc.ac.uk

Students should be able to access all the required forms and these are all placed on the College web via the link below. www.boltonCollege.ac.uk/about-us/ governance/he-strategies/

Academic Assessment Appeals Procedure

There is a formal complaints policy within the College that students and the public can use. However, if the complaint concerns the assessment of a qualification, then please see the appeals procedure below. This will be explained at student inductions and throughout your assessment process. If you are not satisfied with any decisions regarding your work, you have the right to appeal.

Step one:

You should first consult with your teacher/ assessor in an attempt to resolve the problem. At this stage another assessor or course teacher may become involved to give a second opinion. You will receive a response within 14 days.

Step two:

If you are not satisfied with the outcome, ask for a copy of the Appeals Procedure and fill this in. This should be handed to the Internal Quality Assurer within one month of the situation occurring. Ask in your department who that person is.

Step three:

The Internal Quality Assurer will interview both yourself and the assessor. Your work will be re-assessed by another assessor. You will receive an outcome within 14 days

Step four:

If your grievance is not resolved, a report will be prepared. This will be presented to the Appeals Panel. You have the right to appear at the meeting to state your case.

The External Quality Assurer from the awarding organisation may also be consulted at this stage.

Step five:

Within 7 working days of the hearing you will be informed of the final decision.

Malpractice Procedure

Malpractice is any activity or practice which deliberately goes against academic regulations and/or awarding organisation procedures with regards to your qualification. It covers any deliberate actions or neglect by you or by a member of staff that compromises or could compromise the integrity of the internal or external assessment process and/or the validity of your certificate.

At Bolton College we take this very seriously and have arrangements in place aiming to prevent malpractice, including that associated with the misuse of artificial intelligence (e.g. ChatGPT). Where malpractice does occur, we will investigate and treat this as a form of misconduct. If you suspect malpractice by a teacher/assessor or teacher, please talk to the Curriculum Leader or Head of Area for your department.

Deane Road Campus, Deane Road, Bolton

BL3 5BG

Tel: 01204 482 000

Brownlow Fold Community Learning Centre, Eskrick Street, Bolton, BL1 5EF Tel: 01204 482 901

Deane & Derby Community Learning Centre, Board Street, Bolton, BL3 5EH Tel: 01204 482 920

New Bury Community Learning Centre, Buckley Lane, New Bury, Farnworth, Bolton, BL4 9PR Tel: 01204 482 960

Absence Helpline: 01204 482 999 Absences must be reported before 8.30am.

The Attendance Line is open between 7.30am - 4.00pm, Monday - Friday.