SUPPORTING
YOUR STUDIES

Every student has a personal tutor who is responsible for building a close working relationship with them, and being the ‘friendly face’ who can be consulted in times of difficulty. The tutor will be part of the course team and will have a teaching input, so will quickly get to know the student. Part of the tutor’s role is to provide feedback on academic performance, and to help with course related activities such as key skills development and portfolio building. Equally important is the advice and support they can give on personal matters. They will help students to understand how to get help with everything from money problems to health issues and how to deal with everyday difficulties, which can sometimes seem insurmountable.

In tutorials, students will be able to assess their current progress and agree their own learning targets through their Individual Learning Plan (ILP). All achievements will be recorded.

Normally, if you are under 19 at the start of your programme, parents are kept informed of your progress and attendance. A written report will be sent at least once a year and an opportunity for meetings with parents will be provided, usually through parents’ evenings.

We are keen to encourage students with additional needs and disabilities who wish to continue with their studies. Some students will have experienced learning difficulties at school and will be used to having additional support with their studies. Others will find the new methods of study and higher level of work more difficult to cope with, or may have some very specific needs for help with certain aspects of their course. The Additional Support team assesses all full time students to help identify anyone who could benefit from their support. This support may include regular attendance at the Learning Development Centre, where the student will follow a dedicated programme of work tailored to meet their specific needs. Alternatively, it may involve a support assistant working with the student in the classroom or workshop during the normal timetable. Results over the years indicate that where students take advantage of this support, their performance and final grades are much improved.

The Additional Support Team will be pleased to offer guidance and agree support if you have any health problems, disabilities, learning difficulties or problems with reading, writing or number. Additional language support is also available if English is not your first language. If you would like to discuss your needs with the team, please complete the relevant section on the Application Form at the back of this Directory.

The Learning Resource Centre (LRC) is here to support you in your studies and in your personal and professional development. The resources and facilities that you will find in the LRC include the following:
• Books
• Newspapers and magazines
• Videos / DVDs, Audio tapes
• Computers, laptops and printers
• Electronic resources
• Free access to the Internet
• Career materials
• Photocopying facilities
• Online catalogue
• Reference materials
• Study spaces supporting all learning styles

Students may join the Library once they are enrolled and may borrow up to four items at a time. We have a fines system in operation for late or lost resources, and all library users are expected to follow the Code of Conduct.

Learning Facilitators can assist you in your independent study.