Welcome
As a parent of a student at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, which includes Castleford College, Selby College and Wakefield College, we would like to welcome you to our parent community. The following pages provide you with important information that you need to know as a parent. We would like to share with you more details of our expectations, the Study Programme and how to monitor progress.
Expectations and Standards
At the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, we are proud to offer a vibrant, supportive community where every student’s success matters. By choosing to study with us, students are joining a College built on respect, responsibility, and shared ambition.
Our ‘My Success’ Code sets out the standards of behaviour and commitment that everyone agrees to uphold, helping us create a safe, respectful, and ambitious learning environment where all can thrive. These standards are visible throughout our campuses and are shared with every student at enrolment. By enrolling, students agree to these expectations, which not only support their studies but also prepare them for life beyond College—whether that’s employment, further study, or starting their own business. Where these standards are not met, we will take action in line with our Student Behaviour Regulation Policy to ensure the learning community remains positive and supportive. We value your encouragement at home in helping your child/ward live up to the My Success Code, which can be viewed here: www.heartofyorkshire.ac.uk/welcome
Attendance
Clearly, attendance on all components of the Study Programme is essential to maximise your child/ward’s chances of success. It is important that as a parent you access the My Heart of Yorkshire Parent App so you have an an awareness of any attendance concerns. Students’ attendance, participation, and performance on all components will be closely monitored and recorded for you to access.
We expect 100% attendance, and evidence suggests that if attendance falls below 95% it will adversely affect a student’s chances of succeeding. All absence from college must be authorised and that expectation is for the entire programme, including any online element which may be required. Where expectations are not met for attendance, your child/ward’s place on their course becomes at risk. We have made all our students aware as they have started the college year, that if their attendance falls below expectation, they can lose their college place.
We also do not allow holidays in term-time, so for your information, term dates for 2025-2026 are included. If your child/ward is going to be absent they must inform us by
contacting the attendance team via the QR code provided, emailing us at attendance@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk or through the absence notification system on the My Heart of Yorkshire student phone app. Please be aware that the attendance team will aim to contact you to confirm any absence from college.
ID Badges
Wearing an ID badge and lanyard is an important part of being a member of our College community. It shows that your child/ward belongs to a safe, vibrant place where everyone’s security is respected. ID badges must be worn and visible at all times on College premises, as they are needed to move around buildings and access classrooms. To help keep our community safe, students should never allow access to anyone who is not wearing a College ID. Not wearing an ID badge is a breach of our standards, and repeated non-compliance may mean we need to contact you. Replacement badges will invoke a charge of £3 and any delays in obtaining a badge will mean no access to College. By wearing their ID proudly, students are helping to create a secure and supportive environment for everyone.
Emergency Situation
Should an emergency arise that your child/ward needs to know about urgently whilst they are in a classroom with their phone away, parents should use the main switchboard number and a message will be taken to the student. College switchboard – 01924 789789
Support for Students
Dedicated Student Experience staff are located at each College campus and ensure that all students are given the best learning experience in both their subject areas and the campus environment. They are there to see that students receive a high level of support tailored to their needs and learning aims, and also to ensure a seamless transition between school, College and employment or higher education.
We aim to develop independence in our students, but we also recognise that young people might need some support and nurturing along the way. We have dedicated teams in Student Central, the one stop location for our support services. These services include safeguarding and wellbeing, financial support, counselling, careers advisors, sport and activities and work experience and placement. Additionally, there is the ongoing support, guidance and encouragement students receive from their subject teachers, personal tutor and pastoral tutors.
Study programme
Our full-time Study Programmes for 16-18 year olds are all about preparing young people for that next step. Of course, we will support your child/ward to achieve their academic and vocational qualifications, but our Study Programmes are about so much more than that!
Study Programmes are made up of a number of elements of equal importance, which are featured in more detail in the following pages, but your child/ward’s Study Programme will only contain the elements that are right for them. We recognise that your child/ward’s main passion may be for their chosen subject from brickwork to beauty therapy, chemistry to construction, but their time at College is crucial in helping them develop as a whole person, ready for their next step into employment or further study. For that reason, we ask for parents’ help and support in ensuring that students understand the importance of all elements of their Study Programme, and that they demonstrate equally strong commitment to all components. It really will pay dividends!
Their Study Programme may well be different from other students in their group, as each student has different needs. For example, if a student hasn’t got GCSE Maths and English at A* - C or 9 - 4, they will have to attend GCSE classes to help achieve these vital qualifications that employers and universities demand.
Technical Vocational or Academic Qualification
Study Programme students will also study a substantial vocational or academic qualification in an area they have chosen. For example, a student might study several A Levels or a vocational qualification like a diploma, certificate, foundation diploma or an Extended Diploma. The subject they choose determines the department they belong to. For example, a student studying a Diploma in Sport belongs to the Sport Department; a student studying A Levels belongs to the A Level Department. Students will have most contact with and support from the staff in that department.
‘My Journey’ (Individual Learning Plans) and Progress Week
Students will have scheduled 1:1 ‘My Journey’ meetings each term with their personal tutor. Students prepare in advance for these meetings on ‘My Journey’ and it is an opportunity to check progress against all aspects of the study programme and agree targets to help stay on track and achieve their potential. An in-depth progress review also takes place during March. Subsequently reports are published to parents via the app and an opportunity to discuss further will take place and you will be advised on this through the year.
English and Maths
Employers always look for English and Maths qualifications and it is important that students can demonstrate their ability in these areas. If your child/ward does not already have grade 4 - 9 in GCSE English and Maths, they will automatically undertake further study in these qualifications as part of the Study Programme. Students who are required to continue English and/or Maths study must attend all classes and again will jeopardise their college place if they do not. Exam dates for Maths and English will be shared and students must attend.
Depending on the grade they achieved at school, their target may be a good pass (grade 9-4) or a grade improvement, for example, going from a grade 2 to a grade 3. If they already have a grade 4 – 9 in English and/or Maths, they will continue to develop their skills in these areas throughout the Study Programme, but most students will not take additional qualifications in these subjects.
My XP and NAVIGATE
At the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, we recognise that learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our My XP model encourages students to develop a wide range of skills, experiences, and qualities that support their personal growth, employability, and future ambitions. Through My XP, students are expected to take part in a variety of opportunities, including enrichment activities, enterprise projects, career events, sports, clubs, digital skills development, wellbeing activities, and more.
All students use NAVIGATE to record their experiences and track their skills development. This helps them reflect on what they have learned, monitor their progress, and build a portfolio of achievements that can be shared with teachers, personal tutors, employers, and for UCAS or job applications. While students have the choice of which activities to engage in, we expect them to participate actively, record everything in NAVIGATE, and take responsibility for their own development. Engaging with My XP and using NAVIGATE helps students live the values of the My Success Code, preparing them for success both during their time at College and beyond and support their role as positive citizens in the communities in which they live.
Work Experience
As part of your child/ward’s Study Programme, work experience is a key component designed to build their readiness for the world of work. Students will take part in a range of industryrelated activities, including site visits, masterclasses, guest speaker sessions, and employer-led projects. These experiences help students gain valuable insights into different sectors and develop the skills employers look for.
Some courses also include a formal work placement, which offers students the chance to apply their learning in a real-world setting. Work placements are an excellent way for students to build confidence, strengthen their CVs, and explore potential career paths. For many, this can be one of the most impactful parts of their college journey.
We encourage students and their families to help source placements where possible. For those who need support, our dedicated Work Placement Team is on hand to help find suitable opportunities.
All of these experiences, combined with classroom learning, support the development of vital employability skills and help students make informed decisions about their future. These include professional behaviours and attitudes such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and adaptability, which are essential for a successful transition into employment. Our goal is to prepare students holistically, equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive in the workplace and succeed across a range of industries throughout their careers.
HEAT (Level 3, Year 1 programmes)
HEAT (Higher Education, Aspiration and Transition) aims to give students that boost to prepare them for entering higher education or employment and will include speakers, workshops, online activities, visits, trips, and activities, all aimed at giving them the edge for their next step after their Level 3 studies. Students will record their HEAT activities in NAVIGATE. This will help them with their UCAS personal statement and CV preparation.
Employability and Enterprise
If your child/ward is studying at Level 2 and has already achieved their GCSE Maths and English, then they will be expected to attend Employability and Enterprise.
Employability and Enterprise lessons are designed to equip students with the essential skills needed for the world of work, while also giving students the tools to explore running their own business. These sessions focus on building their understanding of employment expectations, entrepreneurship, and the wider community and consumer market. Whether they are interested in becoming their own boss or simply want to be more prepared for the workplace, these lessons offer a practical and engaging way to develop their confidence and capability.
A key part of these sessions is encouraging creativity and a willingness to try new things. Enterprise is at the heart of the learning experience, and they will be supported in a safe environment where it’s okay to make mistakes — because each one is a valuable learning opportunity. Throughout the course, they will take part in exciting activities such as the Tenner Challenge and Dragons’ Den-style presentations, helping them to test their ideas and sharpen their business skills.
Greater Opportunities Aspirations & Life Skills (GOALS)
GOALS lessons are designed to support students in developing a wide range of essential life skills that are highly valued by employers and beneficial for adulthood.
These sessions go beyond academic knowledge, focusing on personal development, practical skills, and future planning. Whether it’s understanding how to manage a credit rating, staying safe in various situations, or setting and working towards your long-term aspirations, GOALS lessons provide a foundation for success both in and out of the workplace. The lessons run weekly for one hour and offer a dynamic and engaging environment where students can learn through a mix of interactive activities and guest speaker sessions. Speakers often come from a range of backgrounds, offering real-world insight and inspiration to help students better understand the opportunities available to them.
These sessions also provide a safe space to ask questions, build confidence, and gain clarity on topics that may not always be covered in traditional academic lessons. Ultimately, GOALS lessons aim to equip students with the tools, mindset, and knowledge to make informed decisions about their futures while developing key soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and resilience that are critical for both employment and adult life.
Extended Project Qualification
(selected Level 3 programmes only)
This qualification is regarded as valuable by many universities and is taught alongside your existing subject choices. The qualification is based on an individual research project, supported by some initial teaching input with ongoing support and monitoring by staff. The subject of your project is agreed with your project sponsor and is an opportunity for students to research and report on an area of interest.
This helps to build skills that are important at university.
Students are invited to express an interest and provide an outline project proposal during the summer term of their first year.
Online
Learning (Level 3 only)
In education or employment you need to be able to work independently, and as more and more activity takes place online, we promote and support the development of these valuable skills via an online learning module for students on Level 3 Study Programmes.
In addition to taught classes, students are expected to undertake online learning activity by completing Inspiring Digital Enterprise Awards (IDEA) outside of class time, which develops their study skills, and helps them to find out more about their chosen career. We ask that students keep a record of their online learning activity in Navigate.
Careers
The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group has a strong commitment to ensuring all students can make informed decisions about their future. The College group has the Student Careers Entitlement Calendar to help ensure all students access the correct careers information, advice and guidance.
The Careers team are here to provide impartial advice on these questions and/or your future options, they are here to support students in exploring their next steps.
+ Not sure what to do when you finish your studies?
+ Need help looking for employment or apprenticeship?
+ Need advice about choosing a course for next year?
+ Need help with choosing a university course?
+ Want some practical help with applications or CVs?
The College utilises a Careers Explorer software. This is designed to help students explore a number of different careers that interest them. The software uses the most current local labour market intelligence on wages, employment, job postings, associated education and training as well as the skills needed to be successful. Career explorer can be found on the College’s website.
Students can speak to the Careers team in Student Central or book an appointment on careers@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk
Safeguarding
We recognise our moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. We endeavour to provide a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment, where all students are respected and valued.
Key factors in our policies are:
+ Staff are appropriately vetted and DBS checked prior to employment;
+ All staff undertake safeguarding training relevant to their post;
+ We have comprehensive safeguarding teams at each College, who have undertaken enhanced training, and who support the Group Safeguarding Lead;
+ All Governors receive safeguarding training, and we have a Governor Safeguarding Lead;
+ We have a defined Senior Mental Health Lead, Student Wellbeing Officers, Counsellors and wellbeing activities at each college to support wider wellbeing and positive mental health;
+ College-wide anti-bullying and harassment (including sexual harassment) policy is rigorously applied.
Part of the College’s Safeguarding and Prevent duty includes protecting vulnerable individuals from the risk of exploitation, radicalisation and extremism. The government has defined extremism as “vocal or active opposition to British values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty and mutual respect and tolerance of different faiths and beliefs”. The College shares and promotes these values across our community.
The Heart of Yorkshire Education Group Safeguarding Lead is Carol Price. safeguarding@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk
Lockdown
Each College operates a lockdown procedure that is a sensible and a proportionate response to any external or internal incident which has the potential to pose a threat to the safety of students, staff and visitors to the College estate. The Procedure minimises disruption to the learning environment whilst ensuring the safety of all pupils and staff. The key objectives of the lockdown procedure are:
+ Quickly restrict access and egress to College buildings (or part of) through physical measures in response to a threat, either external or internal.
+ Inform staff and students of an incident and what direct action to take.
+ Prevent people moving into danger areas and preventing or frustrating the attackers accessing a site (or part of).
+ Lockdown procedure must be sensible and proportionate in response to any external or internal incident, which has the potential to pose a threat to the safety of staff or students in the College.
+ Minimise exposure to danger and, wherever possible, to ensure the safety of students and staff.
+ Quickly restrict access, to remove people from danger and to prevent individuals moving into dangerous areas.
All students and staff are trained on what action to take should lockdown be required. Each College will also test the system once per year. The safety of our students and staff is of paramount importance and tests such as this are essential to ensure our systems are as effective as possible.
‘My Heart of Yorkshire’ Parent App
To support you keeping up-to-date with your child’s time at college we provide an easy accessible phone app which we would encourage you download and access regularly.
1. Download the My Heart of Yorkshire phone app
+ Via your smart phone go to your Google Play or App Store and search for My Heart of Yorkshire App or use the QR codes provided and download the app.
+ You will have received your username and password in a separate email to the welcome pack email received with this welcome booklet. Please enter these into the app to access the information for your child.
+ If you ever forget your username or password, please email itservicedesk@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk
2. Access to all your child’s college records
The app is user friendly and will allow you access to several key records for your child. This app allows you to see your child’s timetable, attendance, exam dates, progress and targets. You will also be able to access the comments recorded regarding your child’s performance at college. This could include causes for concern (CFCs) and praise your child has received.
Multiple Learners
If you have multiple children/wards at college, you can monitor them within the same app. To select a different child/ward, click on the academic year e.g. 25/26 button in the bottom menu, use the ‘Change Student’ dropdown to select a different student and then click on the Update button.
Lesson Timetable
This page will show you details of your child/wards’s timetable for the current week. The week can be changed by clicking on a different date.
Academic Information
This page shows details about your child/ward’s progress. The summary section provides an overview of progress, including how your child/ ward is doing overall compared with their target.
The ‘Show Assessments’ tab shows more detail about the individual assessments, and mock exams which have been completed. Please note, all grades are indicative and final grades may differ.
For any queries in relation to your child or ward’s progress, please get in touch with a member of their teaching team or the Head of Department for that curriculum area of study.
Attendance
You will see your child/ward’s overall attendance on the homepage. You can click on Attendance / Registers for further details.
This Attendance / Registers page shows their overall attendance by register. There may be more than one register for a subject, for example, if a subject is delivered on different days. Each register also includes a recent attendance percentage (last 28 days) along with their last attended date.
The attendance data is a snapshotted and is updated daily.
Exams
This page will show you details of your child/ward’s up coming exams. Data does not appear in here until much later in the academic year. Under the Exam section, you will see the different modules your child/ward has been entered for, as well as the dates and times for that exam.
Please note that exam entries will not show in here until they have been made to the exam board. Please ask your child/ward’s Student Group Leader for more information.
Comments
This page will show you any comments that have been recorded by staff members on your child/ward’s performance or behaviour while at college. You will find comments praising or raising causes of concern (CfCs) on academic progress and performance, attendance and behaviour.
comments have been made on your child’s record.
Need any help?
If you are having trouble accessing the My Heart of Yorkshire phone app, please email itservicedesk@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk
If you have any questions about the information shown in the app, please contact your child/ward’s personal tutor.
Need to contact us?
If you need to make contact with a particular member of staff, please do so via the main telephone number on 01924 789789. If you need to speak to any of our staff in relation to Student Experience or Student Services, then please contact us in Student Central (our one stop shop for services for students). If you telephone switchboard on 01924 789789 they will direct you to the appropriate service or staff member within Student Central.
Term Dates 2025/26
Autumn Term 2025
Classes Wednesday 3rd September to Friday 24th October
Half Term
Monday 27th October to Friday 31st October
Classes Monday 3rd November to Fri 19th December
Spring Term 2026
Classes Tuesday 6th January to Thursday 12th February
Half Term Monday 16th February to Friday 20th February
Classes Monday 23rd February to Friday 27th March
Summer Term 2026
Classes Monday 13th April to Friday 22nd May
Half Term Monday 25th May to Friday 29th May
Classes Monday 1st June to Tuesday 30th June
College will be closed on the following development days / national holidays
CLOSED Wednesday 22nd October 2025
CLOSED Monday 5th January 2026
CLOSED Friday 13th February 2026
CLOSED Thursday 26th March 2026
CLOSED Monday 4th May 2026
