RATHMINES COLLEGE
Town Hall, Rathmines, Dublin 6
Telephone: (01) 4975334
Website: www.rathminescollege.ie
email: info@rc.cdetb.ie
About Rathmines College
A Message from the Principal
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Rathmines College – City of Dublin FET College Central Campus, Rathmines - where there is a proud tradition of providing education to the highest standard in a studentcentred environment. All courses are delivered by an experienced team of teachers dedicated to the highest standards of teaching and learning in a caring, supportive and friendly environment. However, our campus is more than just a place of learning. It’s also a space where you will grow, connect with others, and prepare for the future that lies ahead whether in Higher Education or in employment.
Our staff look forward to being part of your student experience and are there to support every aspect of your journey, both academically and personally. You will be supported by your teachers, dedicated course tutors and full-time guidance counsellors. Don’t hesitate to seek out their guidance as you navigate your studies. We are committed to providing you with the resources and guidance you need to succeed, and we encourage you to reach out whenever you need assistance.
At Rathmines College we believe that education goes beyond the classroom. While academic excellence is at the core of what we do, your time with us will be enriched by the opportunity to partake in the Erasmus programmes, Student Council, clubs, societies, and sports teams. These extracurricular activities are a vital part of your college experience, offering opportunities to explore your passions, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships.
I urge you to embrace every opportunity, challenge yourself, and make the most of your time at Rathmines College. I am confident that your journey with us will be filled with growth, discovery, and success. I look forward to seeing all that you will achieve, both in your studies and through your involvement in our vibrant campus life.
Best wishes for a fulfilling and successful year ahead,
Anna Morris
Principal Rathmines College
City of Dublin FET College Central Campus, Rathmines
College Structure and Administration
Assistant Principals
• Aisling Breen
• Paul McDermott
• Siobhán McKiernan
• Aidan Roche
• Seán Ridge
Tutors/Course Co-ordinators
Each course has a course co-ordinator who is also the tutor to the group. The tutor is the key staff member to whom students relate during the year.
Anna Morris Principal
Bríd Naughton Deputy Principal
Niall Hickey Deputy Principal
Mission
MISSION STATEMENT
Rathmines College promotes and encourages teaching and learning in a supportive, positive and inclusive environment of mutual respect.
STUDENT CHARTER
As a student of Rathmines College I can expect:
• an opportunity to achieve a high standard of education
• access to all supports the College has to offer
• to be treated with dignity and respect by all members of the College community
• to be a full member of the College community
As a student of Rathmines College I will:
• take responsibility for my own learning and contribute towards creating an environment which is conducive to learning for all.
• establish a productive working relationship with fellow students and staff
• attend all timetabled classes punctually and take an active part in my course of study
• treat with respect and dignity all members of the college community.
• treat Rathmines College property and facilities with due care.
• make myself familiar with the Rathmines College Mission Statement and comply with the rules and regulations of the College.
Rathmines College, City of Dublin FET College, Central Campus, Rathmines
OUR BUILDINGS
Rathmines College has two buildings - the Town Hall and 28-29 Leinster Road. Rooms 1 to 15 are in our Town Hall building and rooms 21 to 30 are in our Leinster Road building. Students move between the two buildings for classes.
HOW TO GET HERE
Rathmines College is a twenty-minute walk from the city centre and is also very well serviced by public transport. Bus routes include: 14, 15, 15A, 15B, 65, 83, 140, 142, S2.
The LUAS green line stop at Ranelagh is a ten-minute walk from the college.
The college has no parking spaces for staff or students. Paid parking is available on nearby streets and in the Swan Centre carpark.
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
The administration office is in the main Town Hall building and is open from 9:30 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 16:40 Monday to Friday.
LIBRARY AND STUDY FACILITIES
Study Hub (Town Hall building) for Repeat Leaving Certificate students.
Resource Hub (Leinster Road building) for all students. The resource hub contains textbooks, a comfortable space to study, and a photocopier/printer. The resource hub will be staffed between 9:30 and 15:30 Monday to Friday. Teachers are there to help and advise you on study skills, organisational skills and assessment writing.
Dublin City Council Rathmines Library is across the road from the Town Hall building. Staff there will be happy to help you get a library card that gives access to a huge range of books and resources.
CANTEEN FACILITIES
There are canteen facilities and vending machines for drinks and snacks in both buildings. Payment is contactless and hot drinks are priced at €1.50. Please do not eat or drink in classrooms in either building.
LOCKERS
A limited number of lockers are available to rent for the year. Please talk to the Porters if you wish to use a locker during the year.
Student Orientation
Induction takes place in the first term. Your tutor will take you through all the information you need to have an enjoyable and successful year in the college.
PERSONAL DETAILS
It is important that you provide the college with accurate information and let your tutor, and the administration office know if your contact details change during the year:
Name: used for certification systems.
Address: used to post out QQI results.
Phone number: used for text messages from teachers and administrators, e.g. if a class is cancelled.
STUDENT CARD
You will have the option of registering for a City of Dublin ETB ISIC card. This is an internationally recognised student card that will open a world of benefits and discounts. See ISIC Ireland for more information.
Information Technology
MICROSOFT OFFICE
365
All students will be given a free Microsoft Office 365 account. This account will remain active for the academic year and give free access to the full range of Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, OneDrive, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Please note that your Rathmines College Office 365 account can only be accessed in Ireland and will not work abroad.
Your Office 365 account will be closed when you finish your studies in Rathmines College.
MOODLE
Moodle is our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and the gateway to learning resources, online classes and QQI assessment. Access to Moodle is through your Microsoft Office 365 account.
LAPTOPS
All students completing courses in the college need access to a computer or laptop that will run the Microsoft suite. If you are unable to purchase a computer or laptop, the college operates a Laptop Loan Scheme with a limited number of laptops available. Ask your tutor if you wish to apply for the Laptop Loan Scheme.
Please note that Apple iOS laptops or tablets may not have the ability to correctly install the software you need for your course.
ONEDRIVE
All your coursework should be stored on OneDrive. Using OneDrive to store notes and assessments means that they cannot be lost, and you will not need to use USB drives. It is very important that you always log out of your Office 365 account before you leave the PC or laptop.
PRINTING
In an effort to minimise our environmental impact, we urge students to adopt responsible printing practices. Consider double-sided printing to reduce paper consumption and always choose the draft or eco-friendly print settings whenever possible. Remember to recycle any paper that is no longer needed, and be mindful of ink and toner usage by printing only when necessary.
Guidance Counselling and Supports
To help you do well in college there are a number of support services in place, and it is important that you find out about them and know how to use them. Students new to the college should always seek the advice of their course tutor. Each course in the college has a tutor and it is the role of your tutor not just to organise and plan your year but also to ensure that you know how to access all college services. Your tutor is your first line of support.
THE TUTOR
During your induction programme your tutor will introduce you to the key elements of your course. They will explain what is involved in your course, how many modules you need to study, what you need to do to pass, how the course will be assessed and what awarding body will certify it.
The ground rules or our “Policies and Procedures” for how the college is run will be explained. You will need to know how the college systems operate especially with regard to your responsibilities and your rights. While you are not expected to know all policies you do need to know how to access them and how to use them. However you should know important procedures such as those concerning assessment, submission of assignments, attendance and what to do in the unlikely event that you need to make a complaint.
There is so much information to take in during the first few weeks that it is difficult to take it all in. Remember that your tutor is there to support you and to answer your questions.
GUIDANCE COUNSELLING
Guidance Team – Fergal Scully and Sheena Halton
The Guidance and Counselling team in Rathmines College aims to provide a confidential and non-judgemental service, where students have the space to express and clarify their own particular concerns in relation to career, educational and personal issues.
Career / Vocational Guidance: Assistance with and exploration of course choice and application procedures, the use of career interest inventories and information sessions to help students make appropriate course and career choices.
Personal Guidance and Counselling: addresses issues such as depression, bereavement, alcohol and drug misuse, family and relationship issues.
Appointments can be made by booking a date through your Moodle dashboard, by calling to the offices or through email: fergal.scully@rc.cdetb.ie
STUDENT SUPPORT FORM
We endeavour to ensure students can access all the supports available to them. All students are asked to complete a Student Support online form early in the first term. Your personal information and responses will be kept private. If you tick ‘yes’ to any of the questions or indicate that you previously received exam support, a staff member may contact you for further information and to ensure that you get the supports you need.
If you have a condition for which you received Reasonable Accommodation in the Leaving Certificate or other State Exam, for example dyslexia (or if you have been more recently diagnosed with a learning need), you may be eligible for supports such as a spelling and grammar waiver, extra time in exams, or adaptation of class notes or assessments.
Students with a serious medical condition should also inform the college authorities as early as possible.
NATIONAL LEARNING NETWORK STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Shauna Beatty is the student support officer in Rathmines College. If you are doing a course in Rathmines College and have a disability, specific learning difficulty or any other support need, Shauna will work with to ensure that you are provided with required supports.
Chelsea Murphy is an assistant psychologist working with the National Learning Network. Chelsea will be in the college on Tuesdays and will provide students with social, organisational and well-being support.
FINANCIAL AID
Further Education Maintenance Grants (SUSI) are awarded to eligible students. Application is made directly to the website www.studentfinance.ie. Students who participate in sport at a high level can apply for the Niall Smyth Bursary which is there to assist City of Dublin ETB students achieve their potential.
Employer Engagement Services
• Engaging with industry for Job opportunities and work experience for our students
• Developing Industry Partners for Internship opportunities for Professional Accounting and QQIL5 and QQIL 6 students
• Engage with industry of upskilling and reskilling of their employees through Skills to Advance and Explore Initiatives
• Building long term relationship with Industry Partners
• Inviting Companies to attend our Career Fairs and develop Recruitment pipelines for their companies
• Engage with companies and promote their job opportunities on our Job board and with Heads of Departments
Please contact: Elaine Given Employment Engagement Officer Rathmines College
Email: Elaine.Given@rc.cdetb.ie
Student Activities
STUDENT COUNCIL
The College supports a representative student council which organises social, cultural and sporting events. Each tutor group will nominate a student representative from the class to represent them at student council. The student council works with management and staff to ensure the experience of students at Rathmines College is both positive and rewarding. The student council is represented on the college Board of Management and works in partnership with senior management and staff for the benefit of the college and its students.
SPORTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
The college organises college and intercollege events and competitions in a range of sports and cultural activities including, football, basketball, table tennis, public speaking, table quizzes, photography, board games and intercultural days.
SWAN Leisure is located directly across from the Town Hall building in Rathmines. Various activities will be organised in Swan Leisure during the year. Keep an eye on the noticeboards.
ERASMUS+
Rathmines College offers students the opportunity to travel and study abroad through the Erasmus+ Programme. The college is an Erasmus+ Partner with two European colleges in Nantes, France and in Malaga, Spain. Through the college Erasmus+ partnership each year 20 students travel abroad from Rathmines College.
The Erasmus+ opportunity for students is a fully funded travel abroad programme with a two-week work placement organised for each student in Malaga or Nantes. The selected students experience European working life, culture, and of course, sightseeing and social life. Flights, accommodation, insurance, a pre-organised work placement and enough pocket money for students to enjoy the European cities is all included in the Erasmus+ programme.
Students who have experienced the Erasmus+ Programme have gained valuable experience of living and working abroad with the opportunity of improving their French and Spanish language skills, and of course, representing Rathmines College and enjoying themselves while abroad.
All Level 5 & 6 students registered with Rathmines College are eligible to apply. When details of the Erasmus+ programme is announced interested students need to contact Eucharia Ryan or Patrick Desprez for an Erasmus+ application. The application form and an interview are part of the selection process. Places are limited to 20 students, but the Erasmus+ experience is appreciated and enjoyed by all students who get to travel and work abroad. Watch the website for more Erasmus+ information.
Assessment Submission/Examination Procedures
Rathmines College is fully committed to operating a policy that allows learner achievement in the areas of knowledge, skill and competence for the purpose of achieving an award, and will ensure that assessment procedures are fair, valid and consistent. The College will ensure that learners are kept informed of what is expected of them, their progress and their academic results.
This guide will explain the submission of assessments and coursework for all QQI programmes.
The college tutor will provide students with an assessment calendar. Teachers will provide an assessment brief to include the following information:
• Clear and specific statement of the assigned task.
• Length, structure, time, method of presentation.
• Specific dates for submission of drafts and final copy
• Assessment criteria/marking scheme
It is expected that students will:
• Present their own work for assessments (see section on plagiarism)
• Make full use of the class time provided to work on the assessment as evidence of their participation
• Present their draft and final copy of assessments by the due dates.
• Complete and attach the assessment cover sheet
• Use the agreed system of referencing.
• Keep a copy of the work submitted until certification is completed
ASSESSMENTS
The word “assessment” may include an assignment, projects, portfolios, examinations, roleplays, reports, orals, aurals, presentations, meetings etc.
All assessments have completion dates. All parties are responsible for adhering to these dates. Only under exceptional circumstances will deadlines be altered. This will be at the discretion of the subject teacher.
• Students are obliged to meet all deadlines set by their teachers.
• All written assessments must be submitted through Moodle, or through email, as stated on the brief, by the required time on the due date
• The assessment brief should be attached to the front of the assessment stating the course title, the title of the assessment, the teacher’s name, and the student’s name.
• The student must sign that the work is their own.
• For the academic year 2024/2025 all submissions will be online through Moodle unless otherwise stated on the brief.
• The brief includes space for the marks awarded and for written feedback to learners. Learners are given feedback on their work to explain the mark given and to help them improve their future results.
• All assessment work is retained by the teacher to be presented for Internal Verification and for External Authentication
• Results and feedback will be given to those students who attend class. However, at the teacher’s discretion it may be given electronically. During feedback students may be required to answer questions and give explanations on the work they have submitted
Deadline Extension
In exceptional cases a deadline extension may be granted to a class or individual student by the teacher of the subject. The requested extension should be discussed with the teacher in advance of the original deadline. If an extension is granted a new assessment deadline is set by the teacher or tutor.
Late Submissions
If a student is unable to meet an assessment deadline, the assessment will be deemed to be late and the following will apply:
An ‘Application for Post-Deadline Submission’ form is attached to the front of their assessment. This form is available in the student handbook and on Moodle.
In the event of extenuating circumstances, the tutor, guidance counsellor, principal or deputy principal will sign the ‘Application for Post-Deadline Submission’ form.
Late submissions will be accepted once the ‘Application for Post-Deadline Submission’ form has been filled in and signed. Submission arrangements can be made with your subject teacher.
Assessments submitted after the deadline, without extenuating circumstances, are deemed to be “late” and are penalised as follows:
• Where the assessment is submitted not more than one week after the deadline, ten per cent of marks awarded will be deducted from the final mark of that assessment.
• Where the assessment is submitted more than one week after the deadline, twenty per cent of marks awarded will be deducted from the final mark of that assessment.
Extenuating Circumstances
Extenuating circumstances may prevent a student from meeting an assessment deadline. Such circumstances could include events like an accident, family bereavement, serious illness or other serious personal or emotional circumstances.
In extenuating circumstances a student can apply to their tutor, guidance counsellor, the principal or deputy principal, for an extension to the submission date. This application should take place within one week of the submission date. The tutor may request evidence such as medical certification.
If there are extenuating circumstances and an extension is granted no penalty will be applied to the assessment.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is regarded as, either intentionally or unintentionally, claiming credit for the work of others. This includes using others’ ideas, words or information in a range of formats. It also includes asking others to do work which is then presented as the student’s own original work. Using others’ work without their knowledge or permission is plagiarism. Plagiarism is notconfined to written assignments, essays, projects or examinations. It includes all coursework, for example studio or laboratory work, practical assignments, computer printouts for examinations, and group work.
Plagiarism is a breach of academic values and is not in keeping with the ethos of Rathmines College. Students acquire knowledge and skills by building on the ideas and work of others and this is encouraged as part of learning and teaching in the College. As part of this process it is essential that all sources of information are acknowledged by the user. If this is not done as part of your essay, report or assignment, then ideas and words are plagiarised and it is regarded as a fraudulent act. Students are advised that any of the following are considered plagiarism:
• claiming another’s work as one’s own.
• asking another to do work which is then claimed as one’s own.
• buying or copying work which is claimed as one’s own
• using another’s ideas without acknowledgement.
• copying part of another student’s work which is then claimed as one’s own
How to avoid plagiarism:
• be aware of college regulations for assessments and examinations
• attend tutorials and familiarise yourself with the resources on Moodle.
• understand how to reference your work and present bibliographies as part of all your submissions
• use the correct referencing procedure appropriate to the subject or discipline you are studying.
• acknowledge all sources of information that you have accessed and used in your work.
• act responsibly and honestly in relation to all your coursework and examinations
Students are asked to sign a declaration on all written assessments submitted to verify that the work is not plagiarised.
Procedure for suspected case of plagiarism
In those instances where a suspected case of plagiarism has occurred in submitted work the subject teacher will use their professional judgement to resolve the matter in consultation with the course tutor. Some suspected cases of plagiarism may have to be dealt with by following due process outlined below:
Stage 1
• In cases where suspected plagiarism has not been resolved a meeting with the course tutor, subject teacher and students will be required. The student will be informed of this meeting in writing. If the student wishes they may be accompanied by another adult.
• During this meeting the student will be informed of the precise nature of the concern
• The student will be asked to provide clarification relating to the concern; they may also provide additional details in relation to the matter.
• At the end of this meeting the tutor and the teacher will consider the case and make a decision as to whether the matter has been resolved.
• Resolution of the matter may require the student to resubmit the work in question within an agreed time limit of no less than a week. Resubmitted work will be treated as a late submission and marks will be deducted accordingly.
• If the matter is not resolved during this stage a second stage will be initiated.
Stage 2
If the matter is not resolved the course tutor will promptly report the case to the head of department who in turn will request a submission on the case from both parties.
These reports will be presented to a review panel The membership of this panel will consist of:
(1) An assistant principal
(2) the head of department
(3) the student’s course tutor
(4) the subject teacher
The student can put their case to the review panel with the support of their Tutor or another adult.
This panel will recommend a course of action. Sanctions include:
• being requested to re-submit as appropriate within an agreed time limit of no less than a week. Resubmitted work will be treated as a late submission and marks will be deducted accordingly.
• forfeiting the marks for the assessment with a note to the external examiner of the reasons.
• forfeiting the subject grade.
Right of Appeal
The decision of the review panel may be appealed. The student must notify the principal in writing within seven working days of the date on the letter from the review panel. An appeals committee will convene to discuss the decision of the review panel. The student may attend in person with another adult and may make a written or oral submission.
The appeals committee will consist of:
(1) the principal/deputy principal
(2) a head of department who was not involved in the initial review.
(3) a subject teacher who was not involved in the initial review
The decision of the appeals committee will be communicated within ten days of the appeal. The decision of the appeals committee is final.
Exam Procedures
Examination regulations are given to each student with the examination timetable. The exam timetable is also displayed around the college.
All students are required to attend the formal scheduled examinations and in-class scheduled assessment.
Deferred Assessment
Students absent from an exam who provide medical evidence, or have agreement from the deputy principal or principal will, upon return to college, be required to complete the exam or in-class scheduled assessment as, when and if it can be re-scheduled.
Repeat Assessment
After the Exam Board Meetings in May, candidates who are one or two subjects short of achieving a Major Award will be given the opportunity to repeat assessments for these subjects to the maximum of a pass grade. These assessments may include an exam.
Students who are unsuccessful in three or more subjects, and have extenuating circumstances, may apply to the principal or deputy principal for consideration for repeat assessment, or may be given the option to repeat the year.
• Repeat assessments must be completed and submitted to the principal by the end of the first week in June.
• Repeat exams will take place in early September
• A certification fee for each subject will be payable
• Certification will take place in the next academic year.
It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that he/she is aware of all submissions and/or examination dates as decided by the college.
Results Appeal
Assessment results are provisionally approved by the Exam Board Meeting and are subject to approval by QQI. Students have the opportunity to appeal the results of the assessments prior to the awarding body signing off the results.
Rathmines College has both internal and external results appeal procedures.
Grounds for Internal Appeal: (September to May)
Where a student considers the result allocated to the assessment to be inadequate, the student is entitled to appeal the result. The appeals procedure is as follows:
Stage 1:
An appeals meeting must be scheduled to take place between the subject teacher who carried out the assessment, and the student. The student should complete and submit a Result Appeal Form to the teacher. (Blank form available in the Student Handbook)
Stage 2:
If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of stage 1 he/she is entitled to request that the assessment be reviewed by an Assistant Principal or subject expert.
External Appeal: June
Stage 3:
Candidates may appeal their result by submitting an application form, within two weeks of the issue of the provisional statement of results, to the principal in Rathmines College. Appeals are forwarded to a subject expert outside the college during mid-June. Appeals received after the given deadline date will not be processed. QQI revised results will be processed in time for CAO offers. The appeal is subject to the payment of a charge for each subject appealed. The fee will be reimbursed in the event of the result being favourably adjusted.
The following procedures are applied in all appeals cases:
• The external examiner’s report is checked for comments on the specific case
• The evidence is re-assessed independently by another external examiner.
• The final result is returned to QQI and to the centre.
Examination Conduct and Rules for QQI Students
Candidates should acquaint themselves well in advance with the details of dates, times and rooms for the examinations. Candidates should assemble in the examination centre at least ten minutes before the commencement of all examinations. No candidate will be admitted to the examination room more than thirty minutes after the start of the examination. All candidates must remain in the examination for at least one hour.
Examination booklets will be date stamped.
Candidates wishing to leave the examination temporarily may not do so without the invigilator’s permission and may be accompanied by an invigilator.
All bags, books and materials should be left at the top/end of the room. The college is not responsible for any property or valuables left in coats or bags.
Mobile phone or devices must be switched off – putting them on silent is not sufficient. Smart watches or other digital devices may not be worn. Mobile phones and digital devices must be placed in the envelope provided and left on the desk.
Candidates may not use electronic dictionaries, references books or notes during the examination.
Candidates may not bring blank paper into the examination room – all paper is supplied.
Candidates may not have a pencil case on their desk.
It is the responsibility of each candidate to ensure that s/he has an adequate supply of pens, pencils, etc. required for the examination. The borrowing of such materials from another candidate is not permitted during an examination.
Water only, in a sealed container, may be taken into the examination centre.
A candidate must not have any communication with or speak to any other candidate. If a candidate needs to ask a question or obtain an extra booklet, s/he must raise their hand to get the attention of the invigilator.
Candidates should have a current student identity card visible on their desk.
At the end of the examination a candidate must remain in his or her place until a supervisor has collected the script. Any candidate who has left early will not be permitted to return.
Candidates may not save a copy of their examination. All soft copies must be removed from PCs and laptops and may not be uploaded to a candidate’s own storage.
Candidates must not open OneDrive until the end of the exam when they are uploading their work to Moodle. An open OneDrive account may lead to a suspicion of exam malpractice.
Procedures for suspected exam malpractice
An invigilator who suspects that a candidate is acting dishonestly in an examination is authorised by the college to confiscate and retain all evidence relating to the alleged unfair practice.
The unauthorised material is removed, including the script completed at that point, and retained by the invigilator who reports the matter to the principal, having completed an Incident Report form.
The candidate is allowed to finish the examination with a fresh answer booklet. The candidate may also write or give a verbal report of the incident.
These reports will be presented to a review panel The membership of this panel will consist of:
(a) The principal
(b) The deputy principal
(c) The tutor as an advocate for the candidate
The review panel have a meeting to consider the reports. The candidate is notified and given an opportunity to respond to the review panel. The candidate can put their case to the Review Panel with the support of their tutor, or another adult.
This panel will recommend a course of action:
• The review panel may deem the candidate to be innocent of the allegation and the examination is corrected in the normal manner
• They may find the candidate breached the examination rules and in such a case they may recommend the examination, or a part of the examination, be declared cancelled.
• They may determine if the candidate is entitled to be reassessed.
The exam board will receive a report detailing the process and the decision taken by the review panel. The candidate will be notified in writing of the outcome of the enquiry.
The candidate has a right of appeal to the principal.
Regulations for Repeat Leaving Certificate Assessments & Examinations
• Candidates should acquaint themselves well in advance with all the details in relation to dates, times, and rooms for examinations.
• Candidates should assemble in the examination centre at least ten minutes before the commencement of all examinations including aural examinations. Students will not be permitted to enter the aural exam once tape work has commenced.
• All bags, books and materials, which must be kept to a minimum, should be left at the end of the room. The college is not responsible for any property or valuables left in coats or bags.
• Mobile phones should be left switched off in the students` bag located at the end of the room. Students who are found with mobile phones on the desk or on their person are in breach of regulations. Under no circumstances should students attempt to use mobile phones as calculators, clocks or for any other reason during an examination.
• No candidate will be admitted to the examination room more than thirty minutes after the start of the written examination. For aural examinations students must be in attendance at least 10 minutes prior to commencement of examination. Entry will not be permitted to the exam hall after the tapework has commenced.
• All candidates must remain in the examination centre for at least 1 hour. The permission of the supervisor must be sought and granted before leaving the examination centre.
• No candidate may leave the examination room without the supervisors’ permission and only in exceptional circumstances may students request to leave for the purpose of using the toilet. A toilet break will only be permitted after one hour has lapsed.
• Students are not permitted to leave the examination centre during the final ten minutes of the examinations and must remain in place until a supervisor has collected the script.
• Candidates should remove any waste paper and ensure their chairs are placed neatly at their desks prior to leaving the examination centre. Any candidate who has left the examination early will not be permitted to return.
• Any candidate found communicating or attempting to communicate with others, or with unauthorised materials will have his or her examination cancelled.
• Students must provide pens, rulers, calculators etc. as required. Borrowing or sharing is not allowed. The college will supply writing paper.
• Water only, in a sealed container, may be taken into the examination centre.
• Students who are absent or late for an examination will not be permitted to re-sit the paper.
Application for Post-Deadline Submission
This form must be completed by the student and attached to an assessment submission once the formal submission date has passed.
To be completed by student:
Student Name:
Subject Name:
Subject Teacher(s):
Assessment Name:
Assessment Number & Weighting:
Original Deadline:
Student Signature:
Late Submission Penalty:
• One week late: 10% of marks awarded will be deducted.
• More than one week late: 20% of marks awarded will be deducted.
To be completed by staff:
Extenuating Circumstances*: Yes No
Extra time granted:
One Week
Two Weeks
Three Weeks
Tutor/Guidance counsellor/Principal/Deputy Principal Signature:
* No penalty is imposed if extenuating circumstances are signed off by an appropriate staff member
Rathmines College Results Appeal Form:
All results appeal forms must have the appropriate marking/feedback sheet attached.
Student Name*:
Subject(s)*:
Subject Teacher(s)*:
Assignment Name*:
Assignment Number*:
Grade Achieved*: Feedback Form Attached*: Y / N
Reasons for results appeal*:
Agreed date for meeting:
Appeal accepted: Y / N
Subject teacher comment:
Revised Grade:
Teacher Signature: Student Signature*:
Date:
* These sections to be completed by student.
Appeal Concluded: Y / N
Rathmines College Student Handbook
Stage 2 Initiated: Y / N
How to Reference
Rathmines College uses the Referencing Handbook for the Further Education and Training (FET) Sector. This handbook is available on Moodle under Student Services: https://rathminescollege.etbonline.ie/course/view.php?id=539
Referencing handbook content will be covered in class tutorials and students are expected to familiarise themselves with the content before completing their first assessment.
Students are encouraged to use Microsoft Word for referencing. Instructional videos on how to use Microsoft Word for referencing are available on Moodle and the student SharePoint site.
Rathmines College Student Handbook
Using Microsoft Word for Referencing
Tab: References
Group: Citations and Bibliography
Select Harvard from style dropdown
Step 1: Inserting a Citation
• Place mouse after the correct sentence/paragraph
• Click Insert Citation - Add New Source
Step 2: Creating the Source (Book)
• Select the Type of Source using the dropdown arrow and select Book
• Complete fields as illustrated below and click OK
• To open more fields tick Show All Bibliography Fields (Bottom left corner)
Step 3: Adding a Page Number to the Citations
• Right click on the citation field that appears in your document
• Click the option to Edit Citation
• Insert the page number and click OK
Step 4: Creating the Source (Website)
• Select Website from dropdown menu
• Complete fields and click OK
Step 5: Creating the Source (Miscellaneous – Class Notes) *
• Select Miscellaneous from dropdown menu
• Complete fields and click OK
Step 6: Edit Citation – Class Notes
• Right click on the citation field that appears in your document
• Click the option to Edit Citation
• Under suppress heading tick Author and Year
Step 7: Stored Citations
• You only need to create a citation from the same source once
• All citations are stored – click Insert Citations and select one from list
• Right click on the citation that appears in the document
• Either Edit Citation/Edit Source
Step 8: Deleting a Citation
• This must be done before you insert the bibliography
• Delete the citation field from the document
• Click Manage Sources – Source Manager dialog box opens
• Select the citation from current list and click delete
• You can copy citations from the master list into the current list and vice versa
Step 8: Insert the Bibliography
• The Bibliography is linked to the citations
• Click Bibliography and insert into document
• When you edit the citations YOU MUST update the Bibliography
Student Regulations and Code of Conduct
Through our College Regulations and Code of Conduct and in line with our Mission Statement, Rathmines College aims to create a caring and supportive working environment based on student respect for self and respect for others. The college aims to provide a teaching and learning environment in which participants can achieve their full potential.
The regulations set out in this document are necessary for the efficient and harmonious running of the college, for health and safety reasons and for effective teaching and learning to take place.
The Regulations and Code of Conduct apply to all students on admission to the college and are effective as long as the learner remains a registered student.
WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS?
Students are obliged to make themselves aware of, and comply with the College Regulations and Code of Conduct, the various policies, the Mission Statement and the Rathmines College Student Charter. In addition, each student has a responsibility to:
• fellow students
o to show respect and behave in a manner that maintains a positive learning environment for all;
• staff
o to respect the authority of staff members and comply with their instructions;
• the College
o to respect the building and property of Rathmines College and not diminish the good name and reputation of the college;
• the community
o to behave responsibly and respectfully in the community; health and safety
o to ensure that the health and safety regulations are adhered to.
Students are obliged to note all safety notices and to comply with evacuation procedures.
What rules and regulations must students comply with?
Interpersonal Behaviour: Students are expected to co-operate fully with all members of staff in a spirit of mutual respect and courtesy.
Where conflict between students occurs whether, verbal or physical, and poses a threat to the welfare of students, the college will take appropriate steps to address this conflict. Any behaviour outside Rathmines College which brings the college into disrepute or undermines the values of Rathmines College will be treated as a serious breach of this policy.
When travelling to and from college or between college buildings, standards of good behaviour are expected. When travelling between buildings students are required to cross at the pedestrian lights and adhere to the Rules of the Road.
Attendance: Students are expected to attend all classes for which they are timetabled in a punctual manner.
College Trips, Activities and Outings: Students who are under 18 may not participate in college trips or outings unless they have returned a permission form, signed by a parent/ guardian. These forms must be handed to the teacher in charge at least one day before the trip is due to take place.
Students must comply with all requirements laid down by those in charge as well as complying with any other rules or regulations set down by the facility being visited.
See The Assessment Submission Policy and Examination Guidelines in the Student Handbook on the Student Common Folder for the next three items:
Class Assignments/Projects: All work allocated by the subject teacher should be carried out on time. Students are obliged to meet the deadlines set by their teachers. Work should be submitted at the time appointed at the designated location or through the specified online system.
Examinations: Rathmines College Examinations may only be taken at the time specified. It is the responsibility of the student to read all notices displayed in relation to dates, times, rooms for examinations and exam regulations.
Plagiarism: Plagiarism is a breach of Rathmines College regulations.
Equipment: Students must provide themselves with such books, stationery, equipment, materials and dress as may be required by Rathmines College.
Property: Members of Rathmines College and its community must respect the property of the college. Malicious damage, theft or graffiti, may result in the student responsible, or his/her parents/guardians, being responsible for the financial cost of replacement or restitution. There are CCTV cameras located in the college. See CCTV Policy in the Student Handbook on the Student Common Folder.
Students are not agents of the college and so may not bind the college to contracts with third parties. Students are not entitled to use the Rathmines College name or logo in connection with any activity except when expressly permitted (in writing), to do so by the principal. The Rathmines College name and logo is the property of Rathmines College.
The Environment: Students are expected to behave in a manner that shows awareness of and respect towards the environment: aiming to recycle, preserve resources and use energy responsibly and efficiently wherever possible.
Refreshments: No food or drink may be consumed in the specialist rooms, computer rooms or radio studio. All litter should be placed in the bins provided.
Smoking & Vaping: It is an offense in law to smoke within a building. Smoking or vaping is not permitted in Rathmines College, the front of the main entrance doorway or in the front entrance hallway.
Drugs and Alcohol: It is against Rathmines College regulations for a student to attend college or college activities while impaired/ incapacitated or under the influence of alcohol, misused /abused prescription medications or illegal drugs. Rathmines College prohibits the unlawful possession, use and /or distribution of alcohol or illicit drugs by students on college property or while engaged in college activities.
Infectious and Notifiable Diseases: Students must inform Rathmines College of any personal health issues which may affect the health, safety or progress of themselves or of others. Any student who has been in contact with a condition that is considered contagious/ infectious by the HSE (see www.hse.ie) must immediately notify Rathmines College.
Use of Rathmines College Computers: Students should be aware of and comply with the City of Dublin FET College regulations regarding the use of computers, see Computer and Network Usage Policy on Student Common Folder.
Mobile Phones: Mobile phones must be switched off during class time. Use of mobile phones is prohibited unless directed by the teacher. Their use to record or photograph staff or students without permission is prohibited.
Social Media: Social networking sites are blocked on Rathmines College computers. Inappropriate use of electronic communication and social networking sites is prohibited as well as any use that negatively impacts on the working relationships in college.
Sanctions
All sanctions are subject to City of Dublin FET College, Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, policies and procedures, legislation, the Garda Síochána or other agencies.
A student whose conduct is in breach of Rathmines College Regulations and Code of Conduct may be subject to warnings or penalties as determined by the principal, including being prevented from participating in future college activities, suspension or a recommendation of exclusion from Rathmines College to the Board of Management. At such meetings a student may bring an adult or ask that their tutor or one of the guidance counsellors attend to support them.
Students should note the following:
It is the policy of Rathmines College, to consult with students and in the case of them being under 18*, their parents/guardians, whenever it is deemed necessary and appropriate.
Students are welcome to consult with teachers, course tutors, guidance counsellors, heads of departments, the deputy principal or the principal by appointment.
Rathmines College may be obliged to provide information relating to a student to outside Agencies. Agencies may include relevant Government departments, City of Dublin FET College, SUSI, SOLAS, QQI, DSP (BTEI, BTEA), the Garda Síochána and other agencies.
Students are required to sign a copy of these regulations.
This policy has been formulated taking due consideration of the rights and responsibilities inherent in the relevant Acts including Education Act 1998, Education Welfare Act 2000, Equal Status Act 2000 and National Education Welfare Board Guidelines on Code of Behaviour 2008. The principal/deputy principal/Board of Management exercises this authority in a fair and non-discriminatory manner having regard to his/her/its responsibility to the whole college community and to the principles of natural justice.
*Under the Child Protection Act a student over 18 may be considered a vulnerable adult and may require assistance to care for themselves, or protect themselves from harm or from being exploited.
Student Participation Policy
Policy
Rathmines College is committed to providing support and assistance to students during the duration of their studies. In line with the Mission Statement, the college promotes and encourages teaching and learning in a supportive, positive and inclusive environment of mutual respect.
Participation is recorded on electronic and paper-based systems, complying with the Department of Education and Skills, SOLAS, VTOS, SUSI and City of Dublin FET College requirements.
The aim of the Participation Policy is to ensure students attend, participate and actively engage, thus allowing them to succeed and achieve their full potential.
Scope
Students registering in the college are full-time students. Attendance and effective participation in the course are requirements for student learning and academic success. The participation policy aims to ensure that
• Students are supported through the tutor and department structure to participate and attend all classes.
• Students have an awareness of what is required in relation to participation and attendance.
• All staff positively reinforce effective participation
• Staff keep an accurate attendance record of each class.
• Staff interpret the policy and implement it consistently across all courses
All teachers will remind students of their obligations regarding participation as detailed in their student handbook, and of the implications of poor attendance. Participation will:
• ensure progression.
• assist in securing a meaningful work experience
• ensure a positive reference from Rathmines College
• ensure there are no sanctions relating to grants including SUSI/VTOS/BTEA PAYMENTS
Rationale
In general, a minimum of 80% attendance is required for ongoing course registration.
Participation and attendance are key components in student retention, achievement, progression and employability. Regular attendance and participation on the course are strongly linked to academic achievement. Students who attend classes regularly, and actively participate in their learning, are more likely to complete their course, reach their potential and achieve certification. They also benefit from a rewarding educational and social experience that will develop and enhance their academic, personal and inter-personal knowledge, skills and abilities.
Student Responsibilities
• Student attendance is expected and required for all classes – student obligations regarding attendance constitute part of the student code of conduct and are detailed in the student handbook.
• Students, who know in advance that they cannot attend a class, must contact their class tutor stating how long they expect to be out for.
• It is the responsibility of all students to inform their class tutor of any absences. In order for the absence to be classed as certified, a medical certificate must be submitted to the class tutor. In all cases, a medical certificate must be submitted after 3 consecutive days absence.
• Even if the absence is a medically certified absence, the student is deemed to be absent from the course for the duration of the certificate and this will be reflected in the attendance report produced for grant or social protection purposes.
• Working long hours at part-time jobs can interfere with the quality of course work. More than 11 hours at a part time job is considered to be excessive.
COLLEGE PROCEDURES FOR WHEN A STUDENT IS NOT IN CLASS
• Students are required to email their tutor if they are absent – this prepares the student for the workplace.
• If a student has not attended college for any five days, and has not contacted the Tutor, the tutor will send a text to the student reminding them of their obligation to the course.
• In the case of some students who may be under 18 years of age, parents will be involved at every stage.
• If the participation record does not improve and the student has been absent for a total of 10 uncertified days, an email will be sent by the Tutor with the date and time for a meeting with the tutor and head of department.
• At this meeting, the student will have an opportunity to explain the attendance record and the learner will be recommended to meet with a guidance counsellor for support.
• If the learner does not attend the arranged meeting or continues to absent themselves, it will be assumed that they are no longer a student in the college and a letter/email informing them of this will be issued. Any funding organisation will be informed. Reaffirmation of enrolment can occur only with the permission of the principal or deputy principal.
• Fees or course charges will not be refunded.
• All grant payments are subject to the college confirming 80% attendance. Payment of maintenance grants is dependent on students meeting this attendance threshold.
Wellbeing Policy
1. Introduction
a. Rathmines College recognises the importance of taking a proactive approach to staff and students’ health and wellbeing.
b. While the college is committed to this approach, it is important for staff and students to recognise that they are also responsible for their own wellbeing.
2. Mission Statement
a. The Mission Statement: “Rathmines College promotes and encourages teaching and learning in a supportive, positive and inclusive environment of mutual respect”.
b. The college is committed to creating an open and inclusive college culture, through implementing initiatives and policies that are underpinned by college practises and support services for staff and students.
3. Purpose
a. This Policy will align to the Government of Ireland Wellbeing Policy Statement and Framework for Practice 2019-2023.
b. The purpose of this policy statement is to set out how the college takes a proactive approach to creating the environment and providing resources for staff and students to improve and maintain their health and wellbeing. The World Health Organisation defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity”. The WHO definition links health explicitly with wellbeing and conceptualises health as a human right requiring physical and social resources to achieve and maintain it.
4. The College Approach to the Wellness Policy
a. The college has four wellness pillars, “Culture and Environment”, “Curriculum (Teaching and Learning)”, “Relationships and Partnerships” and “Policy and Planning” to capture the holistic approach towards the wellness initiative.
b. The wellness pillars are integrated as part of the College Strategic Plan. In support of these wellness pillars, events and initiatives are organised to promote the importance of taking care of physical and mental health, and to support staff members and students in their professional, academic and, where appropriate, their personal lives.
c. While the four above mentioned pillars capture our holistic approach, they are also supported by our values of ‘integrity and care’, ‘inclusion and equality’ and ‘teamwork and excellence’.
d. These values underpin how we interact with each other, our student body and our stakeholders. They reflect our aspirations and can further demonstrate how we embrace diversity as a means to strengthen ourselves as individuals and as a college.
5. Support to Promote Staff and Student Wellbeing:
It is recognised that staff and students are responsible for their own wellbeing, however the college will be proactive in creating a supportive environment where staff and students can be more aware and have options in the college to improve and maintain their own wellbeing.
The college policies, initiatives, practices and facilities will support staff and students in the college and, where appropriate, in their personal lives.
The college culture is a people-first culture that puts care for staff and students at the heart of decision-making. Wellbeing supports include but are not limited to:
• Providing support services through the CDETB to staff, including, but not limited to, the Employee Assistance Programme, Care Team, Wellbeing Team through CDETB and within the college, and support structures within the college.
• Providing support services to staff to include the department structure; social outings, small group coffee chats, and organisation of health services including, for example, the annual flu vaccinations.
• Providing support services to the learners, including, but not limited to, guidance appointments, counselling-referral service, the Care Team, the tutor system, class representatives, wellbeing section on Moodle, the Student Council and student support services – learner academic support and personal support, option to join various clubs e.g., soccer, basketball, board games, class outings, visiting lecturers etc.
• Offering wellbeing initiatives to encourage staff to take an active role in improving staff and student health and wellbeing.
• Assessing our progress by including wellness as part of surveys for both staff and students and including the results in the self-evaluation of the college.
List of Rathmines College Policies and Guidelines students must adhere to:
Student Charter
Student Regulations and Code of Conduct
Participation Policy
Assessment Submission/Examination Guidelines Plagiarism Policy
e-Cigarettes Policy
ICT Usage Policy
Social Media Policy
CCTV Policy
Student Consent:
I have read, understand and agree to abide by the Rathmines College Regulations and Code of Conduct and other Rathmines College Policies and Guidelines as listed above:
I allow for my name, DOB and student email address to be shared with the International Student Identity Card company:
Click here to sign.
Health and Safety Plan
Rathmines College has a Health and Safety Plan which is updated and revised on an ongoing basis.
A practice evacuation procedure is held in both college buildings in the autumn of every academic year. A number of staff are trained in first aid, and a list of those staff members is available at the porters’ desk in the Town Hall and Leinster Road building.
The college has two AEDs, one located in the Town Hall and one in the Leinster Road building. A number of staff are trained in the use of these machines.
EVACUATION PROCEDURES (FIRE, ACCIDENT, EMERGENCY)
For the attention of all students of the college
1. A practice emergency evacuation takes place in early October. This is followed by a further evacuation exercise for which advance notice is not given.
2. The emergency alarm consists of continuous ringing of the fire bell.
3. Your subject teacher will instruct you to leave the room and walk briskly to the appropriate exit door. Leave your bag, books etc. in the room.
4. You are instructed not to run or push or in any way cause panic on your way to the exit door.
5. Proceed to the Lining-Up-Area where a specific section will be allocated to your class group. Stand in line while your teacher checks the register. No smoking is permitted during this exercise.
6. The assembly area is the car park in the grounds of the Leinster Cricket Club, for students occupying the Town Hall Building. For those in Number 28/29 Leinster Road, the assembly area is Grosvenor Lodge, located at the side of the college building.
7. When the all-clear is indicated return quickly to your classroom as timetabled where class work will proceed.
8. All students are expected to respond in a serious manner to situations where lives could be in danger.
9. Obey the instructions of the college staff at all times.
Anna Morris
Principal