Welc Edin ome t burg o h Co llege Creating opportunities for Edinburgh and the Lothians Message from the Principal Contents Why Choose Edinburgh College?..................2 Essential Information..........10 I would like to extend a personal welcome to you as you consider studying with us at Edinburgh College. Qualifications Explained....12 As one of the UK’s largest regional colleges, we have over 26,000 student enrolments. As well as students who live and work in the local area, we are delighted to welcome students from around 100 different countries who study with us in Edinburgh and Midlothian. Our students are at the heart of everything we do and our aim is to provide you with an excellent experience. Ways of Attending................14 Progression Routes..............15 Students are well represented at all levels of decision making across the college. We have an active Students’ Association, representing the student voice and organising a wide range of events for the student community. How to Apply..........................16 The college plays a leading role in educating and supporting the workforce of the future, with a continuing commitment to high academic standards and excellence in learning and teaching. We offer more than 900 courses ranging from access and short courses to HNC, HND, degree level and continuing professional development on a full and part time basis. Our Facilities...........................18 Our academic centres have skilled, knowledgeable staff who combine expertise in specialist areas to give our students the very best educational experience. The exciting and progressive curriculum has been designed to meet the needs of industry, providing a wide variety of vibrant, vocational and academic courses with flexible learning opportunities to suit all learning needs. Advice and Support..............20 Student Services....................21 We have established relationships with employers and universities to create a connected community that provides you with strong links into work or higher level study. We are committed to ensuring our students are prepared for a successful career through work placements, internships and connections with a wide range of industries. Student Support....................22 What’s more, many of our lecturers are industry professionals so you will benefit from expert teaching that is up to date, relevant and engaging to ensure you have the best possible opportunities for an exciting and rewarding future. Fees and Funding...................23 I hope you will decide to join us at Edinburgh College and I look forward to welcoming you soon. Living in Edinburgh...............24 Edinburgh College Students’ Association..........26 Mandy Exley Principal Celebrate Your Success...........................28 Keep in Touch..........................28 Equality, Diversity & Inclusion................................29 Our Campuses........................29 A International Prospectus | [email protected] Why Choose Edinburgh College? Best Opportunities for Learning As you would expect from one of the leading colleges in the UK, each of our four campuses boasts fantastic learning facilities. You’ll find comprehensive libraries and wireless internet access throughout and the college’s virtual learning resource centre gives you access to course materials, additional reading and study support online. Whatever course you choose, you’ll be studying under the guidance of expert tutors utilising industryleading equipment and resources. Here are just a few of the highlights that make Edinburgh College a great choice for further study. Last year 94% of our graduates were in employment or further study within six months of graduating. Scotland’s First Solar Meadow Teaching Centre Our solar meadow, with more than 2,500 photovoltaic panels, is the first teaching project of its kind in Scotland and will help to provide the next generation of engineers to develop essential skills in the growing renewables sector. The site works effectively as an outdoor classroom, allowing students to analyse the interaction between biodiversity and solar technology, as well as monitoring and assessing the operation and performance of the solar panels. 2 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] OPITO Apprentice of the Year - Five Years in a Row Making Waves in Renewables Training We are one of only three approved UK OPITO (Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation) Training Centres in the UK. Utilising our oil production platform simulator, we have successfully trained thousands of apprentices for the oil and gas industry with outstanding results. The MacTaggart Scott Hydraulics, Pneumatics and PLC Laboratory opened at our Midlothian Campus in 2013. This partnership between the college and engineering firm MacTaggart Scott provides a professional training facility that offers the perfect learning environment to develop engineering skills in hydraulics and pneumatics. Edinburgh College students have picked up the prestigious OPITO Apprentice of the Year award for the fifth consecutive year. John Paterson won OPITO’s top apprentice award in 2013, following Scott Stage in 2012, Fergus Stewart in 2011, Sarah Coull in 2010 who was the first woman ever to win the prestigious title and Mark Wigginton in 2009. The next phase of equipment to be installed is planned to include wave and tidal simulators, which will recreate North Sea conditions, suitable for testing wave and tidal technology in the confines of a laboratory. Access to this technology will allow our students to develop crucial skills in wave and tidal energy. “I am amazed at how much I have learned already and the excellent support and guidance that I have received throughout. It’s definitely given me the best training that I could have hoped for so early in my career.” John Paterson On Track for First Class Training We have developed one of the best highways, civil engineering and railway track training sites in Scotland. More than 70% of our City & Guilds Railway and Engineering graduates have been successfully placed with railway agencies into employment. WorldSkills UK Finalists At the Forefront of Electrical Technology Our electric vehicle research project, in partnership with SEStran, Edinburgh Napier University and Mitsubishi is the largest scheme of its kind in Scotland. Ground breaking research into the college fleet of electric cars has been crucial in showing the reduction in emissions and long term motoring costs. Thirty new public electric vehicle charging points have been installed from the North Highlands to the Borders and Ayrshire to Fife to help ensure that commuters are never more than 50 miles from a charging post. The aim is to make electric vehicles a realistic option for travelling and a genuine alternative on the roads. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk Carpentry student, Oliver Beatson and Electrical Installation Apprentice, Alexander Gardiner, both won the Highly Commended Award in their categories and went on to achieve 2nd place in the 2013 WorldSkills Competition. “If I didn’t have the support from the lecturers at Edinburgh College I would not be here at this stage.” Oliver Beatson Scotland’s Best Students’ Association Students’ Association Edinburgh College Edinburgh College Students’ Association was named Student Association of the Year at the 2014 NUS Scotland Awards. 3 One of the Most Respected Training Providers in the Performing Arts The Performing Arts Studio Scotland (PASS) at Edinburgh College is one of Scotland’s most respected training providers in the performing arts specialising in acting, dance, make-up artistry, technical theatre and theatre costume. With double BAFTA winner Emma Thompson as Patron, we nurture the talents of our students who are taught by some of the best educators in their field. Our dynamic and engaging learning environments ensure our students receive the best and most up to date training. Former PASS students include: Karen Gillan Shane O’Meara Pamela Jean Smith (Doctor Who) (Waterloo Road) (Professional dancer, worked on set with Lady Gaga) Our BA Dance students were featured in the closing sequence of Sunshine on Leith PASS is an exciting, high octane, cutting-edge centre which will attract much of the wealth of talent in Scotland and beyond. Emma Thompson, Patron 4 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Setting the Scene for Success Our CRE:8 centre offers state-of-the-art facilities for Broadcast Media students. This includes a fully equipped TV studio with green Chroma key and infinity curve, AVID editing suites, a 96 seat auditorium for screenings, professional sound recording studios with editing suites and the latest digital audio facilities. BAFTA for Former Student Former TV student, Garry Fraser, won the Scottish Newcomer BAFTA in filmmaking in 2013 and is currently our artist in residence. He now regularly works alongside BBC and Channel 4 Creative Directors. One current student and three graduates were also shortlisted in the 2014 Scottish BAFTAs. Award Winning Student’s Designs hits the High Street An Edinburgh College student’s design range has been launched in high street stores across the UK by the well known accessories brand Goji. Twenty one-year-old Emil Bloom, who is studying HND Graphic Design, initially designed the accessories for Goji as part of a competition run by the Young Creative Network (YCN) Student Awards, a network that showcases the best graphic design student work from all around the world. Goji, which developed the Tinchy Stryder headphones brand, was in search of a new look for the launch of its new accessories range. The Goji representatives were so impressed with Emil’s entry that it put the range into production immediately. The accessories range, Goji Gorilla Movement, can now be purchased at Currys and PC World across the UK and online. Edinburgh College graphic design students swept the board at the YCN Awards, picking up more accolades than any other Scottish college. “We realise how important it is to encourage our students to apply for competitions such as the YCN Awards to develop their creativity beyond their everyday work in the classroom.” Helena Good, Edinburgh College Lecturer Own Record Label is a Musical Feast Computing Student Wins WorldSkills Gold Award Edinburgh College has launched its own record label and radio station. Our sound recording studios are equipped with the most up to date technology including ground breaking audio consoles from Solid Stage Logic (SSL) and Toft Audio – used by the world’s top sound producers. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk For the second year in a row Edinburgh College has won a WorldSkills gold award for computing. HND Computer Networking and Internet Technology Student, Lorenz de Wilde, won the Microsoft Network Administrator Advanced category. HND networking student, Jiri Kores, also won the gold award in the previous year. “My lecturer encouraged me to go for the competition and I’m pleased to have been given the opportunity to take part in such a huge event”. Lorenz de Wilde 5 Supporting Entrepreneurial Talent The Creative Exchange is a vibrant new hub for creative entrepreneurs that has been developed in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council. The joint initiative is specifically targeted at the creative industries and combines a world class workspace with state-of the-art facilities, including ultra-fast broadband and digital technology. A range of business support services is available from start-up advice to mentoring, as well as help to secure investment. Six Edinburgh College students are funded each year to take up entrepreneurial residency at the Creative Exchange to invest in the development of new and emerging talent. 6 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Photography Students Snap up Awards Our outstanding photography facilities are fully equipped with a drive-in studio with white infinity coving, unique in photography courses in Scotland, and professional darkrooms that offer the opportunity to develop and process your own prints. The results speak for themselves - 2013 was an exciting and rewarding year for our students: National British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP) Awards in London All five categories were won by two Edinburgh College Students: Angel Goday: • Student Photographer of the Year Award: Single Image Category • Student Photographer of the Year Award: Commercial Category Lee Howell: • College Portfolio Award • People and Portraiture Category • Visual Arts Category BIPP Scottish Regional Awards 15 students won a total of 21 category awards and merits including: Overall Winner: Linda MacPherson Photojournalism Category: Lee Howell Towergate Fine Art Competition Gold Award and Certificate of Merit: Lee Howell The One to Watch by the Lisa Pritchard Agency (LPA)* Outstanding Portrait Submissions First Place: Jim Yorkston Runner Up: Lee Howell *The Lisa Pritchard Agency is one of the most prominent artist management and photo shoot production agencies in the UK. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk Broadening Horizons A number of Edinburgh College students took part in projects for the European Union’s Leonardo da Vinci Scheme. This project supports UK vocational education and training organisations, staff and students to improve training, skills and employability. The students undertook work in Finland, Denmark and France to broaden their range of experience. Visual Communications Stars 2013 proved to be a year of great success for Visual Communications students, with one student winning a top prize at the Marketing Society Star Awards and another two named as finalists in the prestigious design awards. Creative Industries student, Jonathan Walton, won Creative Student of the Year. The Marketing Society Star Awards set standards of excellence across all aspects of marketing. Veterinary Nursing Results Above National Average An Edinburgh College student achieved the highest Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons exam result in the UK. Kirsten Gilroy achieved 100% in all 12 tasks that she had to undertake in her final Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons practical exam. Our veterinary nursing exam results are also consistently above the national average. 7 Training Restaurants Our two fully operational training restaurants, eh15 and The Apprentice, are open to the public, providing our students with essential commercial work experience. Hot Awards for Hospitality Students Our hospitality students were recognised for their exceptional skills in the kitchen at the annual ScotHot Awards 2013, winning several gold awards in the Modern Apprenticeship Junior Skills Challenge. A further group of students won silver and bronze awards across a range of categories. The ScotHot Awards celebrate and recognise the next generation of hospitality, tourism and catering professionals. It’s a great achievement for us to get this award and can only be good for job prospects in the future to say we have been part of this award-winning team. Richard Lewis, Hospitality Student 8 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Wella Centre of Excellence Edinburgh College is the second college in Scotland to be recognised as a Wella Centre of Excellence. The accolade reflects the top-class facilities and training at the college. It also provides opportunities for our students to take part in national competitions and schemes run by Wella. Beauty Students Win WorldSkills Awards Our beauty students picked up an impressive collection of awards in the 2013 WorldSkills Awards, securing two first places, three second places and one third place across the Aromatherapy and Beauty Therapy categories. Maria-Dolores Lopez Fernandez from the Hairdressing, Beauty and Complementary Therapies Team was given a Highly Commended award in the Aromatherapy Open Competition for her outstanding skills. My love for aromatherapy and the fabulous teaching I experienced at Edinburgh College has given me the determination to do this for the rest of my life. Maria-Dolores Lopez Fernandez Hairdressing student Karla Robertson was placed second in the 2014 UK Association of Hairdressers and Therapists competition with her amazing creation for the Fantasy Style category. Edinburgh College wins Times Education Supplement Further Education Award Edinburgh College won the University HE Access Widening Participation category for its part in the East Lothian Hospitality and Tourism Academy, a partnership between the college, Queen Margaret University (QMU) and East Lothian Council. The college was one of only two Scottish winners at the awards. The Academy, which was launched in 2012, impressed the judges for the way it smooths the transition between school, college and university. Musselburgh Grammar pupil, Lauren Cain, is just one of the Academy’s success stories. Over the last year she has addressed 100 guests at the Academy’s reception in the Scottish Parliament, spent time working at Novotel, competed in the national ScotHot hospitality championships, and taken classes at both Edinburgh College and QMU. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk Go For Goal We have formed partnerships with Hibernian Community Foundation, Big Hearts Community Trust and The Prince’s Trust to deliver employment programmes that provide young people aged 16 and over with opportunities to gain valuable skills, qualifications and experience to get started on a career path or college course. Funded by Skills Development Scotland, the programme includes an employment qualification, early touches coaching qualification, volunteering opportunities and one week’s work placement. 9 Essential Information Coming to College Choosing to continue your education is a big decision. In this section you will find a range of essential information that will help you make an informed choice, including the qualifications we offer, our academic centres, ways to study and advice on funding. Whichever course you choose, you will find that Edinburgh College is a vibrant, friendly, welcoming place with excellent resources, facilities and opportunities for you. Edinburgh College Business School Our newly-formed Business School offers an extensive range of qualifications from entry level through to postgraduate level in Business, Finance and related Management disciplines. We also provide access to high quality part-time learning programmes in management disciplines, accredited by leading professional institutes. You can undertake a range of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) qualifications at the college, essential for today’s challenging business environment. We offer programmes delivered flexibly, adopting a business focused approach. Our accreditation with professional institutes such as CMI, CIPD, ILM, ACCA, AAT and CIM ensures that the Business School meets your professional development needs. Bespoke training programmes provide professional development opportunities for employees at all levels. These programmes may be accredited or nonaccredited. • BUSINESS AND FINANCE Institute of Construction and Building Crafts Academic Centres Edinburgh College offers a range of programmes across eight academic centres: Centre for Creative Industries Scotland’s creativity is renowned worldwide. Scottish art, film, fashion, music and literature are all internationally recognised, as is its design, IT and computer gaming industries. Edinburgh College offers some of the UK’s most exciting and creative courses and has established links with colleges and universities across Europe offering exciting work opportunities and exchanges abroad. • • • • • 10 ART AND DESIGN BROADCAST MEDIA AND PHOTOGRAPHY COMPUTING MUSIC AND SOUND PRODUCTION PERFORMING ARTS Welcome to Edinburgh College | The creation of the Institute of Construction and Building Crafts has given Edinburgh College the opportunity to approach the education of construction students in a more integrated way. Progression is key to the development of the Institute as we build on already established articulation routes and partnerships. We aim to be the training provider of choice in Edinburgh and the Lothians for the construction and built environment sector. The Institute will meet the regional outcomes and demands of the core training providers including the Construction Skills Training Board (CITB), BEST, SNIPEF, Historic Scotland and local authorities by providing both vocational and academic progression routes that give our students opportunities at all levels to move on to employment or university. • BUILT ENVIRONMENT, SECURITY AND PLUMBING • CARPENTRY, JOINERY, PAINTING AND DECORATING • TROWEL TRADES AND ALLIED SKILLS [email protected] Engineering + International Centre Edinburgh College delivers an exceptional portfolio of further and higher engineering courses, as well as offering bespoke training for professionals. Edinburgh College has one of the largest and most established International centres in Scotland, focusing on English language teaching. Our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme teaches English to people whose first language is not English so that they can live, work and study in the UK. By working closely with industry we are able to ensure that you develop the skills that employers and industry leaders are looking for. Many of our lecturers are industry professionals, which will give you the competitive advantage of learning from people with years of experience in their field. • • • • AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERING ENGINEERING SCIENCE ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING Centre for Health, Wellbeing and Social Sciences Health, Wellbeing and Social Sciences is our largest curriculum area. Work placements play a significant part in the provision of the quality learning and teaching experiences within this centre and we have established close partnerships with industry, universities, the NHS and local authorities. We have over 200 dedicated staff, many of whom have industry experience to provide our students with the most relevant and up-to-date knowledge and skills. • • • • • • CHILDHOOD PRACTICE HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE HEALTH AND VETERINARY PROFESSIONS SOCIAL SCIENCES SPORT AND FITNESS ENGLISH, COMMUNICATION AND HIGHERS You can study ESOL at our campuses or at one of our community venues. We also offer an English Language Summer School in July and August. • COLLEGE-BASED ESOL AND TEACHER TRAINING College Community Our community team deliver a programme of courses both within our four main campuses and at a number of community venues. We work in partnership with the community, schools, local authorities, employers and local agencies to ensure access for under-represented groups in our communities. • • • • • • ACCESS AND CONTINUING EDUCATION COMMUNITY-BASED ESOL COMMUNITY-BASED LITERACIES COMMUNITY OUTREACH SCHOOLS AND YOUNG PEOPLE EMPLOYABILITY TRAINING (WEACT) To find out more about a specific area, download one of our course area booklets at: edinburghcollege.ac.uk/prospectus Tourism and Hospitality Academy The hospitality industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK and the skills you learn here are readily transferable; a career in hospitality can be the key to discovering new countries and people. Edinburgh College offers an innovative and exciting programme of courses, designed to put you at the forefront of this dynamic industry. • • • • • TRAVEL, AND TOURISM MODERN LANGUAGES HOSPITALITY AND PROFESSIONAL COOKERY RETAIL AND EVENTS HAIR, BEAUTY AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 11 Qualifications Explained National Qualification Group Awards (NQGA) is the term which encompasses National Certificates (NCs) and National Progression Awards (NPAs). Edinburgh College offers a range of nationally and internationally recognised courses across a wide variety of subjects. The course you choose will depend on your current qualifications, experience and career aspirations. National Progression Awards (NPAs) are also designed to help you reach your goals and are available in a variety of sectors including construction and childcare. They also link to National Occupational Standards, which are the basis of SVQs. The majority of qualifications we offer are from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). These courses are designed to prepare you for further study or to progress directly to employment. All SQA units and qualifications relate to a level in the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). The SCQF allows you to understand the full range of Scottish qualifications and how they relate to each other. See the framework on the page opposite or visit scqf.org.uk for details. Higher National (HN) Qualifications are offered as one-year Higher National Certificates (HNC) and two-year Higher National Diplomas (HND). Most HNs are work-related and designed to meet the needs of employers and can be the equivalent to the first two years of a university degree programme. National Qualifications (NQs) cover a broad range of subjects to suit your skills and interests. At Edinburgh College we offer these courses at various levels. NQs will prepare you for entry to HNC/HND programmes and can cover training related to employment. Advanced Highers, Highers and Intermediates are designed to prepare you for HN or Degree courses. Professional Development Awards (PDAs) are ideal if you’re already in a career or vocation and wish to broaden your knowledge and skills. PDA qualifications can be at different levels from NC to HN and may include work-based units. 12 Welcome to Edinburgh College | National Certificates (NCs) are designed to prepare you for employment, career development or progression to more advanced study at HNC/ HND level. Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) recognise your ability to do a specific job. They’re designed in consultation with employers and are based on national standards set directly by representatives from industry, commerce and education to enhance your job prospects. Degree Programmes Edinburgh College offers a number of degree programmes in partnership with universities including Edinburgh Napier University, Heriot-Watt University and Queen Margaret University. We also offer Associate Student Degree Programmes which guarantee you a place at one of our partner universities on completion of selected HNC/D courses. Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) A one-year SWAP Access Programme can lead to a guaranteed place on a HN or degree course at college or university. SWAP programmes are designed specifically for adults who do not have the required entry qualifications for university and have been out of full-time education for three years or more. Visit scottishwideraccess.org for further information. Professional Qualifications Edinburgh College offers a range of qualifications certificated by professional and other awarding bodies designed to help you develop and progress in your career. These include BTEC, City & Guilds, VTCT, AVID Pro Tools, CMI, Cisco and ILM. Find out more about the qualifications we offer on our website. [email protected] Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 13 1980’s SCQF 3 SCQF 4 SCQF 5 Ordinary Grade Standard Grade Foundation Access 3 Standard Grade General Intermediate 1 Standard Grade Credit Intermediate 2 National 3 National 4 National 5 Higher 1st Year of Degree Programme Higher National Certificates SCQF 7 Higher 2nd Year of Degree Programme Higher National Diploma SCQF 8 SCQF 6 Bachelors/Ordinary Degree SCQF 9 2014/15 Bachelors Degree with Honours Advanced Higher 2010’s SCQF 10 Advanced Higher 2000’s Masters Degrees Postgraduate Diplomas 1990’s SCQF 11 Certificate of Sixth Year Studies (CSYS) 1970’s Doctorate Degrees 1960’s HIGHER NATIONAL AND DEGREE QUALIFICATIONS SCQF 12 SCQF LEVEL SQA QUALIFICATIONS Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Ways of Attending You can attend college through various modes of attendance, depending on your learning requirements. Full-Time Full-time study of our further education courses, which include National Qualifications such as Highers, National Certificates and Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) and other non-advanced courses, generally requires you to attend college approximately 3.5 days per week for a year. Full-time study of Higher National Certificate and Diploma (HNC/D) courses requires you to attend college approximately 3 days a week. Part-Time Our part-time courses are designed to fit around your life, with duration and attendance varying between each course. We offer a range of part-time advanced, non-advanced and leisure courses. Open Learning We have a range of flexible learning courses which you can study at home or at one of our campuses. You can start a course any time and study at a pace which suits you. A tutor will provide regular guidance and support. Work-based Learning Work-based learning includes day-release and blockrelease courses which allow you to develop your skills and career prospects while continuing to remain in employment. Schools/College Partnership We have a programme for secondary school pupils that is designed to enhance the curriculum and assist you in your transition from school to full-time further education. The Schools/College Partnership team can offer a range of courses which can be added into your existing school timetable. Training and Development We offer a wide range of training and development programmes which are aligned with industry and professional institute standards. Our courses offer a range of qualifications and delivery modes, enabling us to support both individual and organisational requirements with a tailored provision. Our accreditation with professional institutes ensures that we can meet your training and development needs. Modern Apprenticeships The college is approved by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) to offer the Modern Apprenticeship Scheme to encourage employers to train young people towards a recognised workplace qualification. Our vocational areas of delivery include Automotive, Creative Industries, Engineering and Hospitality and Tourism. For more information call 0131 535 4616. Introductory Courses We deliver a range of introductory courses in many subject areas across the college. These work in conjunction with our mainstream curriculum and offer you the opportunity to start on a programme of progressive study at a level that suits you. The courses often have no formal entry requirements and are a great way to prepare for college life. Evening and Leisure We offer a wide range of evening courses including languages, arts, Higher qualifications and introductory skills in subjects such as counselling. 14 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Progression Routes Our courses have been designed to make sure you progress towards your goals; whether you’re looking to go straight into employment, enhance your career options, or move on to university or further training. Continuing at College If you’re planning to continue your studies at college - whether with Edinburgh College or elsewhere – we offer advice about courses, financial support and help with applications. Going to University Thanks to our excellent links and relationships with universities, many courses allow you to progress directly from the college to the first, second or even third year of a degree programme. Before choosing a course, we recommend you talk to our advisors about your goals and the higher education opportunities available to you. We’ll be able to provide you with all the latest information on universities, articulation routes and entry requirements. We’ll also advise you on how to apply and what funding options are available. Associate Student Degree Progression We offer a number of Associate Student Degree places to support your development. These exciting opportunities guarantee you a place at one of our partner universities through our links with the University of Aberdeen, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh Napier University and Queen Margaret University. We currently offer eight Associate Student Degree programmes in engineering, computing, tourism and hospitality. If you’re selected for the Associate Student Degree programme, you’ll begin with HNC or HND level courses delivered at Edinburgh College, before progressing to the 3rd year of study at university to complete your degree. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk Articulation Routes For many of our HN courses we have an agreement with universities that on completion of a specific course, students can progress directly to advanced entry on a specific degree programme. We also have many informal agreements that can provide entry to an appropriate year of a degree programme at various universities. Ask at your interview about articulation opportunities from your chosen course. The Open University Edinburgh College is working with The Open University (OU) in Scotland to create flexible opportunities for students who wish to progress from their Higher National study to a degree. The OU’s BA/BSc (Open) degree allows students to choose from a wide range of OU modules tailored to their personal and vocational needs. This allows students to either build on the subject areas studied in college, or provides the flexibility to develop skills and knowledge in other subject areas. Find out more information about OU study at: openuniversity.co.uk/collegeroutes Employment With our focus on your employability, we provide all the support you need when looking for a job upon completion of your studies. We work in partnership with Skills Development Scotland to help you at all stages with professional, impartial careers advice. Whether you know what you want to do, or simply want to discuss your options, our advice and guidance team can also help you to organise your job search and prepare your CV. If you have any questions about moving on after your studies, call us on 0131 660 1010 or email [email protected]. 15 How to Apply 1. Find the right course for you We know that deciding which course to study can be a difficult decision. So, before making a decision you can browse our courses online. This will allow you to learn about entry requirements and progression routes and discover more about the course content. You can also book an appointment with our Course Information Team. We’re here to discuss your course choice and answer any questions you may have about studying at Edinburgh College. To make an appointment please call 0131 660 1010. 2. Apply online To make the process as simple as possible, you can apply for most of our courses online. Once you’ve chosen a course you’d like to study, it’s as simple as finding the course entry on the college website and clicking on the “Apply Now” button. If you’ve never applied online before, we ask you to register some details needed to process your application, including your name, date of birth, valid email address as well as creating a password. When you apply, please take time to fill out the form as accurately and fully as possible. You don’t have to complete the application all at once and can return to it later using your log in details. If you require support in completing your course application form, or wish to request alternative formats (e.g. large print), please contact: [email protected] or call 0131 660 1010. 16 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] 3. Acknowledgement of application 4. Invitation to interview Once you’ve submitted your application you’ll receive an acknowledgement by email. This will contain details of the course you applied for, how to monitor the progress of your application and contact details if you have any questions or queries. For most of our courses you’ll be invited to attend an interview before an offer is made. For some courses you may also be asked to attend an audition or bring a portfolio of work. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 5. Place offered After being successful at interview, you’ll be given either an unconditional or conditional offer. A conditional offer means you must obtain further qualifications or meet certain criteria before you are accepted. An unconditional offer means that you have been accepted on to the course and are guaranteed a place. You must remember to accept your offer to guarantee your place. 17 Our Facilities Edinburgh College boasts an excellent range of facilities across all four of our campuses. Learning Resources We have on-site libraries and resource centres across our campuses, so you’ll always have access to a PC and place to study while you’re at the college. You will have instant access to Moodle – the virtual learning environment for Edinburgh College. This can be accessed in college, at home, or anywhere with Internet access. Your own student email account can be accessed through Moodle. Having a student email account can also act as proof that you are at an academic institution and therefore entitled to substantially discounted academic prices that are available for many software packages. Student Spaces There are several spaces available to students across all of our campuses that can be used to study, relax or meet with friends. There is also a quiet room in each campus set aside for meditation and prayer for people of all faiths and none. Each campus also has various outside spaces which can be utilised in the warmer weather and study rooms are also available for individual or group use. Food and Drink There are several areas to eat and drink at each of our campuses, from college shops to Costa Coffee. Whether you want to grab a snack from the shop or have a hot meal at lunch-time, there are facilities to suit your needs. Edinburgh College also has two training restaurants available for reservations: The Apprentice at Granton and eh15 at Milton Road. 18 Welcome to Edinburgh College | Sports Facilities Students can take advantage of the excellent sporting facilities across our campuses – both as a study resource and as a gym member, receiving discounted rates on all gym memberships. The Club at Milton Road holds a fully-equipped gym with Precor cardio and resistance machines, designed to allow you to achieve your personal fitness goals, as well as a free weights section allowing you to build strength and muscle tone. Members can also take advantage of regular programming sessions from one of the fully qualified and motivational instructors. Spa, Hair and Beauty Facilities Edinburgh College is home to three hair and beauty training salons, all of which offer the latest in industry innovations, including luxury spa therapies and stateof-the-art hair treatments and styles. This venture opens up an excellent opportunity for everyone to benefit from these facilities, and through sponsorship from Wella, Elemis and Dermalogica, our students offer a discounted service in spa and salon experiences. Waterfront Nursery The Waterfront Nursery at our Granton campus provides high quality childcare for children from 3 months to 5 years old. The nursery opened with a new purpose-built facility in 2006 and facilities include: 2 baby rooms, a tweenie & toddler room, a junior room, Ante-Pre and Pre-school rooms and an impressive outdoor play area with additional activity areas. [email protected] Accommodation Living on campus is the ideal way to make new friends and get the full student experience. Edinburgh College is proud to offer some of the best student living available in Edinburgh. The college maintains a purpose-built residential complex at Milton Road, available to rent once an application form has been completed. This can be downloaded from the college’s Club website, theclubedinburgh.com/student-accommodation. To apply for a place at Granton Campus, please fill out the online application form at: crm-students.com/crm-accommodation/edinburgh. Each campus offers a safe and comfortable environment with meal options, no utility bills and excellent transport links to the four campuses. Student residents also have a limited membership to the Club Gym and Spa. Students can also apply for residences at Granton Campus, provided through CRM Students. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 19 Advice and Support At Edinburgh College our friendly and experienced staff are here to give you the confidence and knowledge to develop and succeed in your chosen career. Our Student Advice and Support Teams can help you with all aspects of life at Edinburgh College. You can take advantage of many of our services before you come to college, so please contact us at any time for further information. 20 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Student Services Our Student Services teams are dedicated to supporting students from enquiry to progression and moving on. You can call our Student Services Team on 0131 660 1010, email [email protected] or drop in to one of our offices on the ground floor of each campus to get some face to face advice. Student Advice and Guidance Whether it’s help with accommodation, progression and pre-exit advice, seeking employment or assistance with applying for additional funding our Student Advice and Guidance Team are here to help. We want all our students to realise their full potential by moving onto the right career or course. We provide a number of resources to guide you through this process including a Skills Development Scotland Careers Adviser who will advise you on all aspects of your career. As an Edinburgh College student you will have access to Jobzone on Moodle. This is our student employment service where you will find part-time vacancies and advice on job seeking, CVs, interviews and more. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk Course Information Going to college is a big decision. There may be lots of questions you want to ask. Our College Information team can help with information about courses, travel to college, funding options and support for your learning. We can point you in the right direction for further advice and guidance depending on your own circumstances. We can tell you about life as a student at Edinburgh College, show you around your chosen campus and help you make your course application. Financial Support Our Student Funding Team will award you with the most appropriate levels of Bursary, EMA and Childcare funding. To make this possible, our team will make sure you’ve provided all the evidence required. We’ll give you an indicative offer of funding before you start learning, so you can plan ahead and budget your finances to make everything more manageable. Student Funding staff are available daily to answer any questions, and help you with the application process. In addition, if you have any concerns about whether you can afford to come to college, please get in touch. We will be happy to help you investigate sources of funding and work through a budget plan. 21 Student Support Our Student Support Team is here to talk through any support you may need to get started and to stay on track. We all need support at some time so it’s always best to ask. If you have specific support needs and wish to discuss how this may affect your plans to study, the Student Support Team can help. To make sure you have a smooth transition into college life, we’ll discuss everything before you make your application and again at interview and enrolment. You may have just left school and are studying independently for the first time. Perhaps you have been in employment or bringing up a family and are returning to education after some time away. Whatever your background, our Student Support Team are here to help you make a success of your studies. We can help you become more confident with skills such as planning projects, organising your time, reading efficiently, giving presentations, writing reports and essays, revision techniques, exam skills, memory skills and using the library. We also understand that learning can sometimes be more challenging as a result of a specific learning difficulty or a disability that requires specialist support. We can provide confidential support and guidance for students who have a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia or dyspraxia, or who have a sensory impairment, physical disability, health problem, mental health problem or social or emotional difficulties. We are able to assist if you qualify for the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA), including discussing supportive technology. Formal assessments for the DSA are carried out in the college. 22 Welcome to Edinburgh College | Learning Development Tutors (LDT) Each person studying on a full time further education and HNC level course with us has a dedicated LDT to ensure that you achieve your ambitions. Your LDT will provide guidance and advice throughout your time at the college while supporting your academic and personal progress through tutorials and drop-in sessions. English Language Support If English is not your first language, you may want some extra support with your course work while at college. Our English Language Support Team will: • Assess your language level before you start your course • Help you plan and prepare for oral and written assignments • Offer ways to improve your English, for example: spelling, pronunciation, grammar, using specialist vocabulary • Improve your English through use of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) facilities • Help with any special examination arrangements which may be available to you For more information on English Language Support call: 0131 344 7338 [email protected] When you’re considering starting college, it’s important to think about funding and how you’ll pay for some of the costs that come with being a student. Funding can vary depending on the level of your course and whether you study full- or part-time, with the funding available for HNC or HND courses being very different from bursary and EMA funding. We understand the amount of information can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to make the process simple and easy to understand. Our advisers will discuss your individual circumstances, helping you with a financial health check. This allows us to offer you budgeting advice, as well as explaining how to apply for funds. Fees and Funding Childcare Funding You may be able to claim financial help towards the cost of registered childcare throughout your studies. This applies if you’re studying either full-time or parttime on one of the following types of course: For more information about how to fund your course and what you may be entitled to while studying at the college, please refer to our Edinburgh College Funding Information booklet. • Further Education level (National Certificates, BTEC Diplomas, City & Guilds, SVQ’s) • Higher Education level (HNC/D and Degree) We encourage you to make an appointment to visit the college and speak with one of our advisers. They’ll explain the funds available for your studies, as well as helping you with the application process. If you’re studying an HN or degree-level course, you’ll need to show that you’ve taken full entitlement from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) before we can consider your application. We’ll provide all the help and advice you need when you apply. The Waterfront Nursery at Granton campus provides high quality childcare for children from the age of 3 months to 5 years old. Some of the funds you may be able to apply for include: For more information about childcare visit the college website or call 0131 669 4400 or email [email protected]. Bursary for Further Education (National Certificates, BTEC Diplomas, City & Guilds, SVQs) Scottish Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) for Higher Education (HNC, HND and Degree) Student Loans information for Higher Education (HNC, HND and Degree) Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) for Higher Education (HNC, HND, and Degree) Assistance with registered childcare costs (All course levels) Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 23 Living in Edinburgh Whether you’re already local to the area or coming from further afield, there will always be something for you to see and do as a student studying in Edinburgh, including restaurants, sights, shopping and nightlife. Edinburgh is spectacular, vibrant and historical; it is regarded as one of the most beautiful and friendly cities in the world. Winner of the World Travel Awards, Leading European Destination 2012, Edinburgh has something for everyone – stunning architecture, lots of green space, state-of-the-art sports facilities, world famous museums, galleries, theatres and a lively social scene. As the ‘City of Festivals’, Edinburgh has an all-yearround vibrancy - hosting international film, literature and music festivals, as well as the world’s largest arts and dance festival in August, attracting tens of thousands of people from around the world and doubling the city’s population in the process. For students looking for some peace and quiet, a short train journey will take you to some of the most stunning scenery in the world. 24 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 25 Edinburgh College Students’ Association As soon as you enrol at Edinburgh College, you’re automatically a member of Edinburgh College Students’ Association (ECSA) - the biggest and bestresourced college Students’ Association in Scotland and recognised as the Student Association of the year by NUS in 2014. We’ll make sure your voice is heard through your Student Representative Council, allowing you to put your ideas across to the College Management and Board of Management. This means you can make a real difference as a student. Your elected representatives are involved in all staff, management and board structures to make sure we represent you at every level. We’ll also give you helpful advice about joining or starting up clubs and societies, getting involved with social events, and how to be more involved in student life - all great ways to get the most out of your time at Edinburgh College. If you have a problem with any aspect of college life such as funding, bursaries, academic problems or international issues, we’re here to help. We have offices at each campus, so we’re accessible wherever you study. The team is made up of four Sabbatical Officers – students who have been elected to work full-time for one year. The Sabbatical Officers are supported by a team of three Student Liaison Officers, and we have one Regional President who works across the whole college. We recognise that Edinburgh College has a diverse population. Liberation groups are therefore here to ensure that all groups are properly represented. We have Liberation Officers on the Executive Committee of every campus – they are LGBT Officer and LGBT Officer (Women’s Space), Black and Minority Ethnic Officer, Women’s Officer and Disabled Students Officer. Find out more on our website ecsaonline.co.uk or contact us on [email protected] Societies When you become a student at Edinburgh College, you might want to start thinking about what clubs and societies you’d like to join. With so many to choose from there’s bound to be something that sparks your interest: • • • • • • • • • Animé Club Basketball Club Drama Society Film Club Gaming Society Hockey Club Law Society Pagan Society Volleyball Club NUS Extra Card You can get discounts at many bars, restaurants and shops throughout Edinburgh when you become a student at Edinburgh College. Applying for your NUS Extra card is simple - just complete the online form at cards.nusextra.co.uk Visit the ECSA website to find out more about our clubs and societies. 26 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] We’ll make sure your voice is heard through your Student Representative Council, allowing you to put your ideas across to the College Board of Management. Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk Students’ Association Edinburgh College 27 Celebrate Your Success We are proud to celebrate the achievements and successes of our students. We celebrate the success of our HNC, HND, Advance Diploma and Degree students at the College Graduation Ceremony in September. We also host an annual Awards Ceremony which recognises the achievements of all our students. These ceremonies are a proud occasion for our students, their families, friends and all staff at Edinburgh College. Our students regularly win national awards, including many sports, photography, audio visual and computing students. Keep in Touch If you are thinking of coming to Edinburgh College for the first time or have just completed your studies, we would like you to keep in touch. Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/EdinburghCollege Follow us on Twitter @EdinburghColl Milton Road Alternatively you can contact us on [email protected] or call 0131 669 4400. Granton Alumni Once you’ve finished your course and it’s time to move on to the next stage of your career or study journey, you can keep in touch with Edinburgh College through our alumni group for former students. We run a programme of events and networking sessions with industry to help former students develop good contacts in their chosen field, and we’re always delighted for you to come back and share your experience with a current class. 28 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Edinburgh College is committed to equality of opportunity and to a culture that respects difference. We welcome and support all students irrespective of age, disability, gender re-assignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. We have also been awarded the Buttle UK Quality Mark, in recognition of our commitment to young people in and leaving care. Our Campuses We have four main campuses: Granton Campus 350 West Granton Road Edinburgh EH5 1QE Midlothian Campus 46 Dalhousie Road Dalkeith EH22 3FR Sighthill Midlothian Milton Road Campus 24 Milton Road East Edinburgh EH15 2PP Sighthill Campus Bankhead Avenue Edinburgh EH11 4DE Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 29 A 0131 660 1010 edinburghcollege.ac.uk Our course portfolio may be subject to alteration. For information or to speak to an advisor call 0131 660 1010 Edinburgh College is a charity registered in Scotland Charity Number SC021213 If you require this brochure in a different format or language, please contact us on 0131 660 1010. N014
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