Introduction:Welcome Essentials BehaviourValues Policy: Working Together Parents’ FrequentlyCharterAsked Questions Governance at Oldham Sixth Form College Student Calendar 2022/23 37-3835171211954 CONTENTS
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Suzannah Reeves Associate Principal Jayne ExecutiveClarkePrincipal
Yours faithfully,
Parents and carers play a very important role in this process. To this end we have produced this booklet, which attempts to provide useful information and answer the questions that parents most commonly ask. I hope that you find this helpful and that your son or daughter enjoys and fully benefits from their time at college. We will maintain regular contact with you throughout using our CEDAR Portal for online reporting and other information about your son or daughter’s programme. You will receive details of how to do this by email. We also welcome your feedback at any time either by phone, letter or via email on parentfeedback@osfc.ac.uk. We very much look forward to working with you to support your son or daughter in achieving the best possible outcomes.
I am delighted to welcome your son or daughter to Oldham Sixth Form College. The years that students spend with us will be crucial in deciding their futures. We intend that students leave the college with the qualifications and skills that will enable them to embark upon the career of their choice. We also intend them to leave as enriched and more mature individuals who have enjoyed both the learning process and their broader experiences at college and have the qualities that will enable them to succeed in the future.
Dear Parent/Carer,
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Introduction: Essentials
The aim of this Information for Parents booklet is to provide answers to some of the questions parents most often ask us when their son or daughter joins OSFC. The move from school to college can feel daunting for both students and their parents. We want to make the transition as smooth as possible for everyone. At OSFC, we strongly believe that we are the best possible ‘stepping stone’ towards our students becoming independent adults and we aim to provide opportunities for your son or daughter to develop fully within a structured and supportive environment.
We encourage students to take a great deal of responsibility for their learning. The college has excellent independent learning opportunities and homework is set on a regular basis on all examined courses. We expect around 8 to 16 hours additional study outside of lessons each week. The most successful students will complete a lot of work in their own time.
It may be the case that your son or daughter does not have a 9.00am class every day. It is good practice to get used to coming into college and studying, so we recommend students arrive before 9.00am. However, this is not compulsory if they do not have a class at 9.00am. Students can, if they wish, work at home during study periods.
As a parent you will receive regular feedback on your son or daughter’s progress through our regular online reports and Parents’ Evenings. You are also very welcome to make contact with us if you feel you need more information or wish us to be aware of anything. Where there are problems with progress, we will seek to identify these and intervene, supporting your son or daughter to enable them to succeed. When this is the case, we may well involve you.
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During study periods we recommend students make use of the excellent study support facilities in college to work on revision, homework or assignments, complete additional reading and generally supplement the work completed in their lessons. The most successful students usually use their study periods productively.
All students have a Progress Tutor who is responsible for supporting and monitoring them. We recommend you contact them by email if you have concerns. Planning towards what they are aiming to do after college is an essential part of our students’ time with us and we encourage students to start this early in order to produce strong applications and have the best chances of success.
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We have high expectations of our students; we set them aspirational target grades and review their progress and report on it to you regularly. If they achieve or exceed their target grades they will be performing in the top 25% in the country for students in their ability range (determined by GCSE performance).
The college is very well equipped in terms of facilities for independent study and access to IT. There is the Learning Resource Centre (The Know) in the Duncan Lawton Building and a number of study areas in all areas of the college, which are open for independent and supported study throughout the day. The main building is open to students from 8.00am to 4.30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday and 10.00am to 4.30pm on Wednesday. The opening hours of The Know are Monday to Thursday 8.00am to 5.00pm and Friday 8.00am to 4.30pm.
The college website is an excellent source of up to date information about what is happening at college. It can be found at www.osfc.ac.uk.
We offer excellent support for them when they are applying for Higher Education or employment. There is strong evidence to suggest that those students with a clear idea of what is expected of them from an early stage are the most likely to succeed in later life.
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It is increasingly important that students look beyond their ‘traditional’ academic programme and consider opportunities such as enrichment courses, work shadowing and volunteering opportunities. This contributes to the crucial ‘all round’ development that is part of being a student at the college. Students are encouraged to participate on courses other than their main programme of study in order to broaden their experience, develop additional skills and prepare for Higher Education or employment.
The college is fully supportive of and actively promotes British Values. We are dedicated to the fundamental British values which promote the spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development of our students, staff and our community. We believe our commitment to these values enables our students to develop their self-knowledge, selfesteem and self-confidence. tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs
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IndividualTheDemocracyruleoflawlibertyMutualrespect and
The British Values are:
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To ensure the success of all our students, we expect them to be:
BEHAVIOUR POLICY
In all interventions with students, staff will: Model positive behaviours. Recognise and celebrate commitment, behaviour and achievement.
Ready to learn: to attend all lessons, on time, and to work with commitment in and out of lessons.
There may be occasions when the behaviour of students does not meet our expectations. If this is the case, we will intervene in order to get them back on track. If we deem it to be necessary, we will contact you, both to inform you, and possibly ask for your input. We have contracts which we use with students who are not fulfilling all aspects of our expectations. These are S1, S2 and S3.
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You will be contacted to let you know that your son/daughter is on a contract. If a student fails to meet the agreed actions on an S3 contract their place at OSFC will be At Risk.
inConsistenciesstaffbehaviour
inConsistenciesstudentbehaviour
Responsible: to take ownership of their learning and to follow college procedures.
Respectful: to work maturely, positively and respectfully with their peers and staff.
PARENT - COLLEGE PARTNERSHIP
In exceptional circumstances students can request that the college has no contact with their parents.
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The college encourages and welcomes the involvement of parents throughout their son or daughter’s time at college. We believe this will play an important part in their success. We strongly believe in a partnership with parents to ensure that all students achieve their potential and have a happy and successful time at college.
An invite to our Welcome Evening for new parents on Tuesday 20 September 2022.
This Information for Parents booklet at the start of your son or daughter’s study at Informationcollege. detailing key dates in the college year (within this booklet).
An appointment with a senior member of staff should the college or parent need to discuss any aspect of your son or daughter’s welfare and progress.
Online access to your son or daughter’s attendance, timetable, reports etc. through the CEDAR Portal.
Contact from college by phone, email, text or letter if there is a concern with your son or daughter’s attendance, punctuality, behaviour or progress.
Reports indicating your son or daughter’s progress against their aspirational final expected grades and a judgement on their effort in and out of class, their attendance and punctuality and a detailed summative report at the end of their first year of study.
The opportunity to sit on the college’s Governing Body as a Parent Governor (when vacancies permit).
An opportunity to speak with subject tutors on Parents’ Evenings and discuss your son or daughter’s progress.
The opportunity to provide feedback at any point; this can be done by phoning college or contacting us at the following email address: parentfeedback@osfc.ac.uk; we will respond promptly if you call the college and ask for the Associate Principal, Suzannah Reeves.
An invitation to attend a Next Steps Evening at the college in the summer term, which will consider issues relating to university study and finance.
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A personal link with the college via your son or daughter’s Progress Tutor.
Parents’ Entitlement
You will receive:
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Inform us if you are concerned about your son or daughter’s progress.
Attend Parents’ Evenings.
Inform us of any changes in address, telephone number or personal circumstances.
Parents’ Responsibilities
Respect term dates and avoid taking holidays in term time unless such arrangements are absolutely unavoidable.
Contact us in the case of your son or daughter being absent, according to the procedures detailed on our website www.osfc.ac.uk/Policies.
Support your son or daughter in their studies in what can be a very stressful time in their Supportlives.our expectations and commitment to high standards, excellent attendance, punctuality and meeting deadlines as outlined above.
In order to help us work together to achieve the best outcomes for your son or daughter, we ask parents to:
We are eager for your son or daughter to be very happy and successful here and hope that you will be satisfied with the college and its services. Nevertheless, we will always listen carefully to any criticisms, complaints or suggestions for improvement in these services. If you are dissatisfied and wish to complain or suggest improvements, an informal approach to the Subject or Progress Tutor may be sufficient, or you. If the matter is not resolved to your satisfaction in this way, you can pursue it further by contacting the Associate Principal, Suzannah Reeves.
Letter – We may write to you sometimes. This may be to inform you of any behaviour or progress issues with your child and if we need to see you to discuss these. Letters and consent forms are also sent home with students for trips – these should be completed and returned promptly.
Available half termly
Cedar – This is the portal via which you can view your child’s attendance, half termly progress review reports (Common Assessment Points, CAP), staff comments and commendations, as well as contact your child’s personal tutor and inform us of any change of details. You will be emailed further details about Cedar in September.
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Newsletter – this is published and emailed to you every half-term, alongside each progress review. It is important you read this as it contains useful information for parents, including key dates.
Text – We send daily absence texts to inform you if your son/daughter has missed any lessons, even if the absence was notified to us. We also often send important information and reminders via text. So please do let us know if your mobile number changes.
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How we keep in touch with you
Email – we often send important information and reminders via email so it is really important we have an up to date email address for you.
Website - College policies and lots of other useful information can be found on the website, including term dates which should be used when planning holidays so that lessons aren’t missed during term time. We also share urgent updates, for example on bad weather days, via the website.
Social Media – Urgent updates are also shared on Twitter and Facebook.
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Parents’ Evening – It is really important you attend this as it provides a great opportunity for you to speak with teachers about your child’s progress at college. Dates are shared via the Newsletter.
If you have any queries about your child’s progress please feel free to email your son’s or daughter’s Progress Tutor directly via the Cedar portal at any time. You can also provide us with feedback at any time by emailing parentfeedback@osfc.ac.uk
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A wide range of information and activities are available for students to access in their study periods to help ease the transition between school and college. We strongly recommend that students make good use of the materials available on the VLE, in addition to textbooks that are available from their tutors and in our Learning Resource Centre, The Know.
What is the role of your son or daughter’s Progress Tutor?
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How big is the leap between school and college?
Your son or daughter has a Progress Tutor who will help to provide the support needed to settle down to work at college. During weekly tutorials their Tutor will monitor the progress made by your son or daughter, help him or her prepare for examinations and moving on to university and employment, as well as completing a range of activities, including citizenship related themes and study skills. Your son or daughter’s Tutor will also write his or her university or employment reference. Your son or daughter will have an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) that will help them to succeed at college and prepare for the future and this is managed by their Tutor. The Progress Tutor monitors the performance of each individual student in their tutor group and will help sort out problems that may be affecting their work. If parents feel they need to discuss issues relating to or affecting their son or daughter, their Tutor is usually the first port of call. Should you wish to speak to a senior member of staff, please contact Associate Principal, Suzannah
Most students joining us are studying Advanced Level courses which are, by definition, more challenging than GCSE level studies. However, staff are well aware of the difficulties students face in respect of their subjects and set work at levels appropriate to their abilities. The initial ‘induction’ period enables students to find out more about the subjects they are studying and includes an introduction to the skills needed for successful study.
Frequently asked questions
Throughout the year we are asked many questions about the college and your son or daughter’s education. In this section we will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions. It isn’t an exhaustive list and if you have questions that aren’t covered here, please contact us.
How does Oldham Sixth Form College report on student progress?
Reports detailing the performance of your son or daughter (against target grades), their effort, and attendance are published on five occasions during the first year, including a detailed summative report in the summer, and four times in Year 13. These are called Common Assessment Points, or CAPs. Dates for the publication of the reports and Parents’ Evenings are included at the back of this booklet. This information will be available on CEDAR.
From early in their first year, we encourage students to think about possible careers and progression routes. The tutorial programme includes comprehensive careers education that takes students through key stages in application and students have the opportunity to attend Higher Education and employment talks and to visit universities. We also provide a careers ‘Next Steps’ Evening for parents and a Careers Fair for students. Students and parents are advised to follow @OSFCFututresTeam on Twitter for regular updates.
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Whether your son or daughter is applying to university or looking for employment, they have access to resources to help them on the student intranet and in The Know. We have two very experienced Careers Advisors in college and students are able to make appointments for careers interviews with them. We strongly advise students to make the best use of this service.
How does my son or daughter apply to university or employment?
We provide dedicated support and advice for all students applying for the most competitive courses at any Russell Group university. More specific help and guidance is also available for students applying to the universities of Oxford or Cambridge, via our Oxbridge Group, and there are dedicated sessions for those aiming to progress onto courses such as Law, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, or Health Care. The college has an Aspiring Lawyers Programme, an Aspiring Medics Programme and an Aspiring Health Professionals Programme. If you would like any further information, please contact Dr Richard Lee (rle@osfc.ac.uk).
Entrance requirements for university courses vary, but are usually either based on 3 A Level passes or equivalent (in UCAS points). Universities make offers based on predicted grades. The exact nature of these offers will depend on both the individual course and the university. Students will be given extensive information about how to research their own ideas and apply during their Tutorials and excellent new software (Unifrog) will ensure students are able to make very informed choices. They can also find useful material on the careers section of the student intranet and paper information in our Careers library. Students can make an appointment to see a Careers Advisor by asking at any college reception.
Is part time work compatible with academic success?
Evidence shows that excessive part time work can damage a student’s progress at college. Whilst a few hours a week (for instance a Saturday job) can be very beneficial, some students want to do considerably more and we discourage this. To be successful on their courses students should expect to spend around 8 to 16 hours a week in additional study, such as homework or independent learning, as well as attending timetabled classes. Experience has shown that students with extensive part time work may well have difficulties coping with the demands of their course and we would welcome the support of parents in emphasising our concerns on this issue. Research shows that more than 12 hours part-time work each week can have a negative effect on final grades.
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What about applying to Oxford, Cambridge or competitive courses at Russell Group universities?
What grades will my son or daughter need to get for university?
Bursary Fund
What financial support is available for students?
The 16-19 Bursary Fund is designed to help support young people who face financial barriers to continuing in education post 16. The fund has two elements:
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Students may be eligible for support for childcare costs from the Care to Learn Fund. Applications must be made via www.gov.uk. Students can contact the Additional Support Team in college for guidance and support with completing an application.
Bursarycosts.
payments will be subject to good attendance, punctuality and behaviour. Details of eligibility criteria and an application form are available on the college website. Students will only receive the bursary if their attendance is above 95%.
A discretionary fund to help young people from families in receipt of a means tested benefit to meet the costs related to participation, transport, books, equipment and other course related
Childcare
Free college meal
Financial support for the most vulnerable learners, i.e. young people in care, young people in receipt of income support and disabled young people in receipt of Employment Support Allowance who are also in receipt of Disability Living Allowance. These students will receive a bursary of £1,200 per year.
Bursary students will be entitled to a free college meal each day to the value of £3.20. Their college account will be uploaded with this amount each day and they will use their ID card to pay for food with this fund in the college catering outlets.
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Following A Level reforms that have been introduced from September 2015, all A Levels are now linear, with all examinations at the end of the second year. Students taking A Levels will still sit AS Level exams at the end of the first year, but these will not contribute to the final A Level grade. AS Levels are awarded grades A, B, C, D, E & U. E is the lowest pass grade and A is the highest grade at AS. At A Level there is also the possibility of achieving the higher A* grade.
What are A and AS Levels like?
What are T Levels?
AS/A Levels are assessed mainly by examination, although a small number have an element of coursework. Where there are internal deadlines, these will be published in advance by tutors. It is essential that students meet deadlines in order that coursework can be marked and submitted to the exam boards on time.
T Levels are brand new courses, focusing on blending college-based learning with industry placements. They combine classroom lessons with a 45-day placement, giving students core knowledge and on-the-job experience and skills.
Subsidiary Diploma comprises 6 units and is equivalent to 1 A Level
Students who are sitting a Foundation Year will be taking either GCSE or BTEC (vocational) qualifications. GCSEs are mainly assessed by examination in May/June, although there are some early entry exams in English and Maths in November. Students studying on a Level 2 BTEC course will be assessed through assignments that they will produce throughout the year and examinations. In order to progress to a Level 3 programme at Oldham Sixth Form College, your son or daughter must achieve the following:
What are vocational courses like at Oldham Sixth Form College?
What is a Foundation Year like at Oldham Sixth Form College?
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The grades awarded for national qualifications are Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*. The Distinction* is the highest level.
The Certificate comprises 6 units and is equivalent to 1 AS Level.
BTEC students’ target for progression to Level 3 is to achieve at least a Pass on their course.Students on a GCSE programme will need to pass at least three of the four subjects taken this year at grade 4 or above.
Vocational courses have grown in popularity here and are a very valid alternative to A Levels. They are often referred to as ‘BTECs’ though we also offer similar courses offered by other exam boards. There are several types of course to choose from. All are work related and coursework rather than exam based:
Diploma comprises 12 units and is equivalent to 2 A Levels
Extended Diploma comprises 18 units and is equivalent to 3 A Levels
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What can parents do to support their son/daughter during pressure points?
When exams or coursework deadlines approach it is quite normal for students to feel anxious. It is important to be aware of this and plan how you can help. There are people in college your son or daughter can speak to for support. If there is a problem, encourage your son or daughter to see their Progress Tutor, a subject tutor or a member of the Student Support Team for advice. You are welcome to contact us if you wish to discuss any problem. If you are very concerned about the welfare of your son or daughter, please contact Emma Hart (Assistant Principal: eha@osfc.ac.uk) or Jenny King (Student Welfare Leader: jkg@osfc.ac.uk).
All of these incidents must be reported to the awarding bodies who decide on the sanctions to apply.
The main exam period is in the summer term, in May and June with some external vocational exams in January. The college will have a formal mock exam week, which is the week commencing 27 February 2022, to help prepare students for their external examinations. All external exams will be conducted according to the rules laid down by exam boards and within the start and finish times determined by the board. Exam dates are non-negotiable. Details of the dates for your son or daughter’s examinations can be found on CEDAR. It is necessary for students to comply with the exam board regulations which are issued via the weekly tutorial and are available on the exams section of the student intranet. Every year a very small number of students fail to gain qualifications because they have:
Failed to read their exam timetable and not turned up on the appropriate day. Arrived late for their exam and had their paper discounted. Caused a disruption because their mobile phone has gone off during the exam. Introduced unauthorised material into the exam room.
What happens during exam periods?
What can parents do to support their son or daughter during their exams?
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There are many things that can impact on exam performance and in some circumstances the exams department can make arrangements which will support your son or daughter through the examination period. Please inform the college (zrs@osfc.ac.uk) as soon as possible of any circumstance which will impact on your son or daughter’s ability to sit an exam, for example, illness or injury.
The college issues exam timetables in May for the summer exam session. Make sure your son or daughter has a copy of their timetable and is aware of all exam dates and times. Timetables are individual to the student, so please encourage your son or daughter to inform the exams department immediately of any perceived difficulty, discrepancies or missing examinations. Exam dates will be available to parents on CEDAR.
Please contact the exams office immediately (0161 287 2444) if your son or daughter is going to be absent due to illness or unforeseen circumstances to discuss their options.
More information about examinations can be found in the Exams Booklet that is issued to all students prior to the exam period, and also in the student diary and on the college website.
What if your son or daughter requires special exam arrangements?
What happens if your son/daughter has to be absent on the day of an exam?
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The Oxbridge Group is aimed at students with the ambition and potential to apply for a place at Oxford or Cambridge. This group provides the opportunity to get together with other students and prepare for applications and interviews.
How does Oldham Sixth Form College add to a student’s experience?
Interest-based courses in areas like Sport, Debating, Music, Drama, Art, Creative Writing and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme enable students from across the college to work together.
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) enables students to achieve a qualification that is the equivalent of an AS Level. The EPQ involves researching a topic of personal interest; it is very highly valued by universities.
Foreign Language courses are offered in Beginners Spanish, French and German.
Courses such as Young Enterprise, First Aid and Pre-Teaching enable students with particular aspirations to acquire specific skills and recognised qualifications which will help them in their future career.
Taking part in work shadowing or volunteering can enhance applications for university courses, or perhaps act as a ‘taster’ for their future career.
The college provides bespoke support for students applying for Law, Medicine and health care at university through our Aspiring Medics, Aspiring Lawyers and Aspiring Health Professionals Programmes.
Our Xtras programme offers a wide range of courses that can benefit students in a number of ways. The courses enable students to gain an additional qualification, develop an interest, have fun and prepare for employment or university.
Students at college are encouraged to participate in the National Citizenship Service (NCS) programme and will be provided with information and support in order to do so.
Inter-faith panel events, where students have the chance to discuss their views wilth religious leaders.
An Equality and Diversity programme for students, leading to a qualification.
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A ‘love is love’ group and celebration of diversity day, promoting LGBT+ issues.
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SUPPORT
Students will be expected to re-sit their GCSE Maths and/or English Language if they haven’t achieved a grade 4. This will be discussed with them at enrolment and students will be offered additional support in GCSE Maths/English re-sit classes, and possibly literacy workshop classes, if they are re-sitting GCSE English. After assessment, some students may also benefit from additional ‘Skills Plus +’ classes to support them with Dyslexia etc.
What if my son or daughter needs extra support to succeed?
We provide counselling options and employ a Wellbeing Practitioner to offer bespoke help to students to focus on positive mental health. We also promote the five ways to well-being in all aspects of college life.
The Additional Support team will help ensure that all students, regardless of their learning difficulty and/or disability, can benefit from their college course, realise their potential and progress to employment or Higher Education. As part of our admissions and enrolment procedure we ask students about particular support needs and discuss these with them individually. We also test all students to establish their level in literacy and numeracy. Support will be provided for students that need it to help them to progress.
The college also has a separate e-safety policy, which covers all aspects of keeping students safe online. Staff receive regular training on this and the college issues guidance for students on subjects such as dealing with cyberbullying and how to respond to any inappropriate comment made through social media or digital devices. The college has also taken measures to protect students and staff from the possible threat of radical extremism.
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Our designated officer for safeguarding, Emma Hart, can be contacted through the main college number or by email (eha@osfc.ac.uk) if you have any concerns. If a student wishes to report an incident, they can talk to their Progress Tutor, the designated safeguarding officer, or any member of college staff. All staff have received training in how to refer a safeguarding concern. Following any incident, the college will review what has happened and decide on the most appropriate and proportionate course of action.
The college fully recognises its responsibilities for child protection and our Child Protection Policy applies to all staff, governors and volunteers working here. We follow established procedures set out by the Oldham Local Safeguarding Children Board and take account of guidance issued by the DfE. Our full policy is available on the college website, but in summary we will:Establish and maintain an environment where students feel secure and are listened to. Ensure that students know that there are staff whom they can approach if they are Ensureworried.that students are particularly aware of E-Safety and their responsibilities when using facilities such as social media.
We also educate students, via their weekly tutorial, on computer games addiction and gambling. Students can be referred for appropriate external support if they wish to access it. Students need to be aware that potential employers and universities can examine their backgrounds via social sites and online profiles. We advise all students to be careful with what they post online and to ensure that their privacy is set appropriately on social sites, so information cannot be viewed by anyone other than those they want to view it.
How does the college ensure my son or daughter is safe?
Students can view their own attendance and punctuality record at any time by using CEDAR. Parents can also access this via CEDAR and are strongly encouraged to do so. We will inform you if your son or daughter does not meet the college’s expectations regarding attendance or punctuality. The college has a ‘fitness to study’ policy, which may be implemented if a student with low attendance is unlikely to complete their studies and ‘reasonable adjustments’ have failed.
We value high attendance and intervene if students develop poor patterns of attendance. Attendance at all lessons is compulsory and arriving on time is essential. Tutors will query absence or late arrival and record the number of minutes late for students arriving after the start of the lesson. These details are reported to parents in our regular reports home. Absence from examination classes, tutorials or any other timetabled class without a fair explanation is taken very Registrationseriously.takesplace at all classes using our computerised registration system (CEDAR). Tutors can access the attendance records of any student in any subject. This allows us to monitor and take action quickly when attendance or punctuality problems arise. The college has a text message system to inform parents of their son or daughter’s absence.
How does the college monitor attendance and punctuality?
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What if my son or daughter is expected to have a longer term absence?
If medical or personal circumstances arise that are going to affect your son or daughter’s ability to attend college over a prolonged period of time, it is important that you contact their Progress Tutor about this. Telephone the main college number (0161 287 8000) and ask for their Tutor. You will be able to leave a message if the member of staff is not immediately available. We strongly discourage students from taking holidays during term time or taking time off to complete assignments or revise. The college year ends on Tuesday 11 July 2023 for students. During the period following AS Level examinations, Year 12 students will start their second year’s work. In addition, during this time, students will continue the very important process of applying for university places. It is important that all students attend all classes.
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You can notify the college of your son or daughter’s absence by logging on to CEDAR and clicking on Presence, then Absences and Absence Entry on the left-hand side of the screen and entering details of the absence. Alternatively, you can call the absence line and leave a message telling us the reasons for the absence and how long the student is expected to be away. The number to dial is (0161) 287 8002. This is a 24 hour automated absence recording system where you can leave the details of your son or daughter’s absence. You will be asked the name of the student, tutor group, college ID number, reason for absence and expected date of return.
What if my son or daughter is absent from college because of illness, for example?
If a student knows they will be absent in advance of a lesson (e.g. for a hospital appointment) they should pre-notify the college on CEDAR and should also tell their tutors in advance. Parents can also inform the college using CEDAR as above, up to 3 days in advance.
Students in receipt of the 16-19 Bursary must follow the college’s absence procedure issued to all bursary students. Wherever possible, absences should be reported in advance on CEDAR, together with appropriate evidence. Pre-notified absences that have been authorised will not result in the payment being stopped. Please be aware that notified absences are treated as an absence for statistical and monitoring purposes and will still be followed up by Progress Tutors.
What if students book driving lessons or medical appointments during lesson times?
What are authorised absences?
All driving lessons should be booked outside lesson time as should appointments to see dentists, doctors etc. If a medical appointment during lesson times is unavoidable, the student will need to inform his or her tutors in advance and notify college via CEDAR. These absences will be unauthorised.
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If a student is going to miss a class because of a college-related activity, absence will be authorised and the register marked accordingly. However, if the student is attending a university interview or open day, the responsibility rests with the student to inform teaching staff that they will be absent before they miss classes and add an absence entry in CEDAR at least one day in advance. No lateness will be authorised. We expect students to catch up on all work that is missed as a result of absence.
Our policy is only to authorise absence for college or study-related activities, for example university visits, field trips, work experience, official study leave and examinations. However, we also recognise that some religious festivals fall outside of our main holiday pattern or INSET days. If this is the case, students must record their absence on CEDAR. The college takes guidance from the local religious leaders on what is an appropriate period of absence (usually one day) and will advise students accordingly. A maximum of 3 days will be allowed in one academic year, though this is not an entitlement, as it will depend on where festivals fall in any given year.
We encourage students to plan how to use their time constructively. Being a student at Oldham Sixth Form College is a full-time commitment and involves extensive work outside of the Theclassroom.college has several quiet study areas as well as the Learning Resources Centre (The Know). The opening hours for The Know in the Duncan Lawton Building are: Monday to Thursday 8.00am to 5.00pm Friday 8.00am to 4.30pm
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The college restaurant and snack bars are normally open for refreshments, snacks and lunches every day, Monday to Friday, from 8.00am (10am on Wednesday) to 3.00pm in the main building, 8.30am to 3.30pm in the Duncan Lawton Building and 8.30am to 2.00pm in the Science Centre.
How should students adjust to the greater independence they will get at college?
Whilst we do not insist students remain on the premises between classes, we are keen that they make the best use of their time and the college facilities. Students may wish to take advantage of our sports facilities including our excellent gym.
Standardisation and moderation of student work – it may, on occasion, be necessary to cancel a lesson in order for staff to collaborate to ensure their assessment of student work is fair, accurate and consistent. This standardisation or moderation is crucial for ensuring effective and high quality assessment (as well as being required by the exam boards). Where this is necessary, students affected will be notified in advance and work will be set.
There may be occasions when a member of staff is unable to take a lesson. This can be for differentStaffreasons:attending training courses – occasionally a member of staff may undertake professional development which affects their teaching commitments. In this case, work will be set and another member of the Curriculum Area will register the class and ensure the group understands the work that needs to be completed. On rare occasions, the class may be cancelled in advance with the teacher having set work prior to their course.
We hope that you will appreciate the importance of professional development, accurate assessment procedures and educational visits in securing the best possible outcomes for your son or daughter. We monitor staff absence very carefully and will do everything we can to minimise impact on classes.
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Staff accompanying college visits - in most cases staff absence due to college trips does not impact on classes other than those on the trip, but where this is unavoidable, the procedures outlined above are followed (i.e. advance notice and work set).
What happens if a member of staff is absent?
Staff illness – in the event of unforeseeable absence due to staff illness the class will be registered and set work by a member of the team as above. We will endeavour to put cover arrangements in place as quickly as possible if the illness is expected to be longer term. In the meantime, students are expected to continue to attend classes, where they will be registered and work will be set. Students may be asked to complete the work set in a study area or at home. We will endeavour at all times to ensure the maintenance of the high standards of teaching expected at the college.
How do I find out more information about college?
The college has a website that is updated regularly (www.osfc.ac.uk). We also tweet frequently on @OSFC_Info - please follow us. We also have a Facebook page (facebook. com/OldhamSixthFormCollege). College documents and our Freedom of Information publications scheme are available on our website at https://www.osfc.ac.uk/Policies.
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You can read our Inspection Reports on the Ofsted website. We are proud to have been graded ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ in all of our inspection reports since we opened.
For security reasons, all staff and students must wear their identity cards. Access to college is not permitted without an ID card and a swipe system is in place at the entry to all buildings. In addition, ID cards should be visible to security/reception staff on entry to all buildings. The ID card also acts as a library card, allows access to free college meals for bursary students and access to the computers in the Learning Resource Centre (The Know).
What are college Identity Cards?
If a student forgets or loses a card, a new card must be obtained from student reception area in the main building. There is a charge of £5, however, if their card is found soon after, the student may return the new lanyard to main student reception to reclaim £3. All monies taken for new cards are donated to charity, as chosen by the Student Union.
Board of Trustees: Trustees set the strategic direction of the Trust and are accountable to the Secretary of State for the performance of the academies it covers.
Local Governing Body for OSFC: this body oversees the central functions of OSFC as delegated by the Trustees.
Board members are elected in different ways, depending on their category of membership. Parent, Staff and Student Governors are elected by their peers. Independent members are actively recruited to ensure that the Board of Governors appropriately reflects the range of expertise required to contribute effectively to the work of the college, including those from the local business community according to the particular skills and experience they can bring to discussions.
How long do Governors serve on the Board?
How are Governors selected for the LGB?
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OSFC established the Pinnacle Learning Trust in partnership with the Hathershaw College in September 2017. Werneth Primary School has since joined on 1st February 2019. The governance model for the Trust has three levels of responsibility:
All Governors, with the exception of parents and students, serve a four year term of office from the date of their appointment. Parents are elected for a two year term, but are eligible for re-election if their son or daughter has enrolled on a three-year programme of study. Student Governors hold a one year term of office.
GOVERNANCE
Members: members are responsible for the appointment and removal of Trustees and agree the constitution of the Trust.
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The full Board meets at least 4 times per year. Additional meetings are arranged if necessary.
Can I contact the Chair of the Trust or LGB?
The Chair of Board of Trustees and the Chair of the LGB, can be contacted by writing to Mrs Jan Jones, Clerk to the Governors, Oldham Sixth Form College, Union Street West, Oldham, OL8 1XU, or by email to jjs@osfc.ac.uk.
We would like to know if there is anything you feel we have missed and/or any other questions you would like answered. Please email Associate Principal, Suzannah Reeves, at parentfeedback@osfc.ac.uk. Thank you for your help and we look forward to seeing you during the academic year.
How often does the Board meet?
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. . . and finally
Monday 5 June Tuesday 11 July
Please avoid taking your son or daughter out of college during term time. There is very compelling evidence of a strong correlation between low attendance and under achievement.
Summer half term: Monday 29 May to Friday 2 June 2022
Opening Dates
Note: all dates are correct at the time of going to print but may be subject to change. Please refer to the college website for updates. CALENDAR
Closing Dates
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Monday 31 October
Monday 20 February Friday 31 March
Christmas break: Monday 19 December 2021to Monday 2 January 2022
Easter break: Monday 3 April to Friday 14 April 2022
Tuesday 3 January Friday 10 February
Spring half term: Monday 13 February to Friday 17 February 2022
Autumn half term: Monday 24 October to Friday 28 October 2022
Thursday 20 October
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Friday 9 September (Y12)
Friday 16 December
Monday 17 April Friday 6 May
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College closed: Monday 5 December
CAP 2 reports published on CEDAR and via tutorial: week of December
Welcome Evening for parents of new students’ evening: Tuesday 20 September
INSET/Revision week/exams: week of 5 June
External exams start: week of 5 May
Year 12 Parents Evening 8 & 14 December
CAP 3 report published on CEDAR and via tutorial: week of 20 March
Key Dates
Celebration Day & end of term: Tuesday 11 July
Next Steps Evening for Parents (Year 12 Advanced): (Thursday 27 April)
CAP 1 published on CEDAR and via tutorial: week of 10 October
External Vocational exams begin 9 January College Musical 7 & 8 February
May Bank Holiday: Monday 1 May
CAP 4 report published on CEDAR and via tutorial: week of 3July
Year 12 Parents Evening Wednesday 29 March
