merrist wood college school leavers prospectus 2016:17

GIVINGYOU SPACETO GROW

#GOINGTOmerristwood

2016:17

OPen EVENTSWEDNESday 7 october 2015: 5.30-8pm

SATURDAY 10 october 2015: 10AM-1pm

SATURDAY 7 november 2015: 10AM-1pm

TUESDAY 15 march 2016: 5.30-8pm

WEDNESDAY 19 JUNE 2016: 5.30-8pm

1

ContentsWelcome

Welcome from the Principal 2

Why Choose MerristWood College 4

Choosing Your Course

Choosing Your Course 6

A Levels or Diplomas? 8

Apprenticeships 12

Your Route to College 14

Your Study Programme 16

Maths & English 18

It’s All About Employment 20

Personal & ProfessionalDevelopment 22

Give It A Go! 24

Support

The Students’ Union 90

Financial Support 92

Travelling to College 94

Everyone Matters 98

The Student Charter 100

Other Information 102

Keep in Touch 104

Courses

Animal Management 26

Arboriculture & Forestry 34

Equine Management 38

Floristry 44

Horticulture 48

Landscaping 54

Public Services 58

Sport Studies 62

Football 68

Golf 74

Rugby 76

Sports Turf 78

Supported Learning 82

Wildlife & Conservation 84

2

Welcome fromthe principal

I AM DELIGHTED THATYOU ARE THINKINGABOUT JOINING US ATMERRIST WOOD COLLEGEAND WELCOME YOU TO OUR MULTI-AWARDWINNING 400 ACRE OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

3

I am delighted that you are thinking about joining us atMerrist Wood College and welcome you to our multi-awardwinning 400 acre outdoor classroom.

At Merrist Wood College we can give you a very uniquestudent experience that you will find nowhere else.Experience our 400 acre outdoor classroom, includingsuperb specialist facilities with dedicated, experienced staffin an environment that is friendly, intimate and suits yourindividual needs.

This year we have completed our new multi-million pound state-of-the-art Animal Management Centre, whichlooks fantastic and houses some interesting and diverseanimal species.

Choosing where to study and what to study are two of themost important decisions you will make in your life. MerristWood College can help prepare you for your future chosencareer or allow you a stepping stone to degree levelprogrammes, either at the College or university. Many ofour students who have recently finished their studies withus have gone on to embark on new exciting careers such as Golf Course Managers, Police Officers, Estate Wardensand more.

Whatever you decide to do, we are committed to providingyou with the best learning experience we can and hopethat you will join us on your exciting journey. We will do allthat we can to help you have an enjoyable, rewarding andsuccessful time towards preparing you for your career.

Come along to our next Open Event and see for yourself. We look forward to meeting you and showing you what we have to offer.

MIKE POTTER CBEPrincipal & Chief Executive

400ACRE OUTDOOR

CLASSROOM

4

Why choosemerrist wood college

5

• 400 acre multi-award winning outdoor classroom

• Friendly expert tutors with great student support

• Excellent pass rates

• Regular winner of student competitions and awards

• One of the top equestrian centres in the south east

• Brand new Animal Management Centre now open

• Working with Chelsea FC Foundation delivering the maleand female football academies

• Amazing activities and events with the Students’ Union

• Excellent progression routes to higher level programmesor employment

66

Choosing your

CourseWHEN CHOOSING A COLLEGE COURSE IT ISIMPORTANT TO FIND ONE THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOUChoosing a college and a course is a big decision. The betterinformed you are, the more likely you are to make the rightchoice for you. This will greatly improve your chance ofsuccess at college.

You need to think about where you are now and where youwould like to be in the future. Consider your interests, whatyou enjoy and what you’re good at. Think about how you liketo learn too, as being in college for most of the week justmight not be for you. Ultimately, a lot will depend on thequalifications and experience you already have, so rememberto check the entry requirements of the course you’reinterested in.

Still confused? Check out the chart opposite to see what you could do.

Some courses mayalso require:

• A reference from your school, includinginformation about your attendance

• A skills assessment, relevant to the subject area, for example a practical test

• A literacy and numeracy assessment.

77

IF YOU EXPECT YOUR QUALIFICATIONS ON ENTRY TO BE...

YOUR COURSE COULD BE:

AT LEVEL:

YOU COULD MOVE ONTO:

Please note: this is a guide only as some courses may require specific entry criteria.

4/5 GCSEs at grades A*-C

including English

Some courses may also require

Maths and specific subjects

2 to 4 GCSEs at grades D-E

or above, including

Maths and English,or equivalent

A range of GCSEs at grades D-G or equivalent

No formalqualifications

3 or 4 A Levels, Level 3 BTECDiploma or

Advanced LevelApprenticeship

with GCSE Mathsif you haven’t

achieved a grade Cor above

Level 2 courseor

Intermediate LevelApprenticeship

with Maths and/or

English, Functional Skills

or GCSEs

Level 1 course orRoutes intoPathways

with Maths and/or

English, Functional Skills

or GCSEs

Entry Level

3 2 1 Entry

Foundation Degree, HNC/D or

Degree at theCollege or at

university

A Levels, Level 3 BTECDiploma or

Advanced LevelApprenticeship

Level 2 coursesor

Intermediate LevelApprenticeship

OtherEntry Level

or Level 1 courses

8

If you are looking to move on to a Level 3 course afteryour GCSEs you may be trying to decide between A Levels or a more vocational Diploma course. What willbe the best option for you?

The main difference between these courses is that A Levels are assessed through examinations with somecoursework modules, whilst Diploma courses are mostlycoursework based with some practical assessments orwork experience.

Both of these options can be used to progress on to arange of opportunities including employment,Apprenticeships, further study programmes or university.

Merrist Wood College takes a practical approach tolearning, so only Diplomas are available. However, if youwant to know how they compare to A Levels, the tableopposite will show the equivalent qualification. When youcome in for an interview with your tutor, you will be ableto discuss the appropriate level for you, based on yourexpected GCSE results and plans for the future.

A LEVELs ordiplomaS?

9

4 GCSEs(A*-C)

1 AS Level 1 A Level 1 AS Level& 1 A Level

2 A Levels 3 A Levels

BTEC Level 2

Diploma

BTECLevel 3

Certificate

BTECLevel 3

SubsidiaryDiploma

BTEC Level 3

90-creditDiploma

BTECLevel 3

Diploma

BTECLevel 3

ExtendedDiploma

One year One year One year One year Two years Two years

Employment,Advanced LevelApprenticeship,

A Levels orLevel 3 BTEC

Diploma

Employment,Apprenticeship,

Further Study Programmes,Degrees at the College

or University

EQUIVALENT TO:

DURATION:

QUALIFICATION:

PROGRESSION:

Certificates and Diplomas

Diplomas take a practical approach to learning, without missing any ofthe important theory on the subject. You will learn by doing a mixtureof conventional classroom theory and ‘real world’ practical projectsinvolving teamwork. These courses are ideal if you want to concentrateon studying a particular subject area and prefer to be assessed bycoursework rather than exams.

Diplomas are recognised by schools, colleges, universities, employersand professional bodies across the United Kingdom, and in over 100countries worldwide.

Diploma qualifications are a recognised entry to university and thetable opposite shows the number of UCAS Tariff Points you willreceive based on the grades you achieve at the end of your course.

P = PASS M = MERIT D = DISTINCTION D* = DISTINCTION STAR

EXTENDED DIPLOMA DIPLOMA 90-CREDITDIPLOMA

SUBSIDIARYDIPLOMA CERTIFICATE TARIFF

POINTS

D*D*D* 420

D*D*D 400

D*DD 380

DDD D*D* 360

DDM D*D 320

DMM DD 280

260

MMM DM 240

D*D* 210

MMP MM D*D 200

DD 180

MPP MP DM 160

D* 140

PPP MP MM D 120

MP 100

PP M 80

D* 70

P D 60

M 40

PP P 20

12

ApprenticeshipsAPPRENTICESHIPS GIVE YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK FOR A REAL EMPLOYER, EARN A REAL SALARY AND GAIN A REALQUALIFICATION WHILST GAINING VALUABLE WORKPLACE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Apprenticeships provide the best of both worlds andoffer high-quality, work-based training programmes andare a fantastic way to launch yourself into a career whenyou’ve finished school.

Am I Eligible?

Apprenticeships are available to all ages over 16 years -you just need to be living in the UK and not taking partin full-time education. There may be different entryrequirements depending on the Apprenticeship and theindustry sector. See our course pages for more details.

Moving On

Apprenticeships train you in the skills employers want,so they give you choices in your career. You don’t haveto stop at the Intermediate or Advanced LevelApprenticeship. If you want to go on to university youwill find that many institutes of Higher Education valueyour skills and knowledge and will happily offer you aplace on a Foundation Degree or other higher levelqualifications.

ApprenticeshipsAvailable:

Merrist Wood College offers Intermediate Leveland Advanced LevelApprenticeships in thefollowing subject areas:

• Arboriculture

• EnvironmentalConservation

• Equine

• Horticulture

• Landscaping

• Sports Turf

13

The Key Benefits

• Earn a salary while you are learning and working - You’ll be working for an employer and earning a salarywhile you learn the skills required in your industry. Salaries vary, but apprentices earn an average of £170 per week.

• Free training - While you’re on an Apprenticeship scheme, your employer pays you a salary and supportsyou in your training - most of your learning will happen at work, but some might take place at the College in apractical environment. Financial help is available and youwon’t have to pay any fees if you’re between 16 and 18, the Government will pay the full cost of your training.

• Get qualified - You will work towards a work-basedqualification such as a National Vocational Qualification(NVQ) and other nationally recognised qualifications thatwill be valid for any employer. That means you can changejobs and take your skills and qualifications with you.

• Become a valuable asset to an employer

• Get paid holidays

71%OF APPRENTICES STAY WITH THE SAME EMPLOYER AFTER FINISHING

14

Your routeto College

YOUR STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO GETTING ON A COURSE AT COLLEGE...

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

Choose Your Course

We offer a wide range of courses at all levels - take a lookthrough this prospectus, come to an Open Event and meetthe tutors (see the front of this prospectus for the next date)or visit our website for more course details, video clips andcomments from existing students. If you’re still not sure, Tel: 01483 88 40 40 for independent advice and guidance onchoosing a suitable course.

Apply

We advise you to apply online at www.merristwood.ac.ukas soon as possible - our courses fill up fast! We may ask you to provide references, typically from your school, orperhaps an employer if you have been working.

Attend Your Interview

We will invite you to an interview, which normally lasts 30 minutes and allows you to discuss your course choicesand plans for the future. We’ll also tell you about anymaterials or equipment you need and the support we can offer. Don’t forget to bring with you your qualificationcertificates (if you have them) and any other documents or portfolios of your work.

15

Accept Your Place

If your interview is successful we will offer you a place withintwo weeks. If you don’t get your first choice we can adviseyou on suitable alternatives.

Go to a Taster Event

You may be invited to attend a taster event in your subjectarea, where you’ll meet other students, find out who yourtutors will be and get a real taste for your course and college life.

Receive Your Enrolment Pack

You will be sent a joining pack in the summer, containingimportant information, a date and time to enrol on yourcourse and what to bring to enrolment.

Get Your Results!

You’ll need to bring your exam results to your enrolmentsession. If your results are better than you expected, or youdon’t do as well as you’d hoped don’t worry, we can help you find a more suitable course.

Start College

During your first week there will be lots of activities to helpyou settle in and make new friends. Your course starts withan induction, giving you the opportunity to find out moreabout your course and explore the College.

STEP 4

STEP 5

STEP 6

STEP 7

STEP 8

16

Your study Programme

ALL 16-18 YEAR OLDSTUDENTS IN POST-16EDUCATION ARE ENROLLEDON A STUDY PROGRAMME,MADE UP OF YOUR COURSE,TUTORIALS, WORKPLACEMENTS AND OTHERELEMENTS

17

The aim is to give you more choice andopportunity and make you more attractive touniversities, employers and training providers

MAINQUALIFICATIONThis will be the course(s)you choose to study withus - example Equine Level 3 Diploma.

MAths & englishIf you haven’t achieved a grade C or above in Maths orEnglish at GCSE you’ll be able to retake these with usor alternatively undertake Functional Skills. These arevital skills for work and Further or Higher Education.See pages 18-19 for more information.

PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTYou’ll receive comprehensive support during yourtime at college to enable you to succeed to the bestof your ability. You’ll have access to expert careersadvice to help you move on to work or university;excellent resources in our Learning Resource Centre;additional learning support and personal support.

employabilityskillsWe want to makesure you are asprepared for yourcareer as possible, so you’ll haveopportunities toundertake tasters inthe working worldand develop theskills that employersneed.

See pages 20-21 formore information.

GIve it a go!A variety ofactivities andevents will be onoffer to youthroughout yourcourse. Thesemight include trips,visits, guestspeakers,competitions,performances andshowcases.

QUALIFICATIONS IN MATHS ANDENGLISH ARE WHATEMPLOYERSDEMAND. THEYARE THE MOSTIMPORTANTVOCATIONALSKILLS YOU CAN HAVE

18

Maths &englishSurveys repeatedly show that employers are dissatisfied with the literacy and numeracy skills of school and collegeleavers and many use these qualifications as a filter in their recruitment process. This means that if you can’tdemonstrate that you have the required skills in maths and English, you might not even get an interview.

I won’t need maths and English in my job!

All jobs require a certain level of maths and English skills. For example:

• Landscaping - you’ll need maths and English skills formeasuring up, working out quantities, ordering stock and writing up quotes for customers.

• Floristry - you’ll need maths and English skills for meetingand greeting customers, taking orders and calculating the right quantities of flowers and stock to order.

• Animal Management - you’ll need maths and English skillsfor ordering supplies, working out quantities of feed andbedding, administering medication and communicatingwith vets.

Without the appropriate level of maths and English skills, anemployer may not even select you for interview. You mustbe able to demonstrate on your CV and in a job applicationthat you have the skills they need. You will limit theprogression opportunities within your job role if you havepoor maths and English skills – you might not be able to getthat promotion if you can’t prove that you can manage thatlevel of responsibility.

It’s not just about work – it’s about your confidence andability to use maths and English skills in everyday life anddecisions you need to take.

19

In response to the concerns about poor skills in mathsand English, the Government has made a commitment tohelp raise standards. If you fail to achieve a good pass –grade C or above – in Maths or English GCSE by the timeyou finish secondary school you must continue to studythe subjects in post-16 education until you get thesequalifications.

What does this mean for me?

• Once you receive your GCSE results, if you have notachieved a grade C in Maths or English we will enrol youon an additional course to allow you to progress yourskills. This won’t prevent you from continuing with yourmain qualification, you will study your Maths andEnglish alongside it.

• You only need to continue with the subject that you haven’t achieved a grade C in, so for example if youachieved a grade C in English, but a D in Maths, youwould only need to continue studying Maths.

• Depending on your GCSE result, you may be able to re-take your GCSE or a Functional Skills course may bemore appropriate. Functional Skills develop your abilityto use maths and English in a range of contexts and totransfer these skills from one situation to another.

• Even if you have achieved a grade C or above, all of ourcourses will develop your maths and English skills andembed them within the vocational area, so that you cansee how important they are to working life.

• Extra support for maths and English is available.

How does the College know how to help me?

• When you enrol at college you may be asked to take aninitial assessment on your maths and English skills.

• It is really important that you focus on completing thisassessment to the best of your ability.

• The results of this initial assessment and your previousgrades gained from school will tell us which qualificationsand what support you will need to further develop yourindividual maths and English skills.

The College will continue to offer you careers guidance andinvite you to attend progression events throughout yourstudies so that we can support you in taking decisions forfurther study, training and employment.

EMPLOYERS ARE LOOKING

FOR SKILLSTHAT GO BEYONDQUALIFICATIONS

AND EXPERIENCE

20

IT’s all aboutemployment

We know from talking to local employers that otherknowledge and skills are just as important as the actualqualification that you will achieve at College. So, we’reoffering our students the opportunity to take part in extraactivities and learning which have been designed to supportyou in getting, keeping and being successful in a job.

What are employability skills?

During your career it is likely that you will hold jobs with avariety of employers and move across different employmentsectors. We all need to be flexible in our working patternsand be prepared to change jobs and/or sectors if we believethere are better opportunities elsewhere. In order to beflexible we need a set of transferable skills that are notspecific to one particular career path, but are generic across all employment sectors.

Employability Skills can be defined as the transferable skillsneeded by an individual to make them ‘employable’. Alongwith good technical understanding and subject knowledge,employers often outline a set of skills that they want from anemployee. These skills are what they believe will equip theemployee to carry out their role to the best of their ability.

learners develop good skills foremployment and progress toemployment related to their studies

ofsted said:

21

At Merrist Wood College we will work with you to developthese employability skills and provide you with examples and evidence that you can take forward in to your CV andinterview technique:

• Communication and interpersonal skills - You’ll need theability to explain what you mean in a clear and concise waythrough written and spoken means, to listen and relate toother people and to act upon key information or instructions.

• Problem solving - You’ll need the skills to gather reliableinformation, evaluate the information and select the mostappropriate option based on the criteria and situation.

• Using your initiative and being self-motivated - You’ll beexpected to demonstrate the ability to come up with newideas of your own and not wait to be told to do things.

• Working under pressure and to deadlines - Employers will expect you to be able to handle the stress that comeswith deadlines and ensuring that you meet them.

• Organisation skills - The ability to effectively plan andorganise means that you are more likely to get the job done correctly the first time. These skills are beneficial to employers as they save time and money.

• Team working - Working well with other people fromdifferent disciplines, backgrounds, and expertise toaccomplish a task or goal is valued highly by employers.

• Ability to learn and adapt - Employees who are open tolearning and embrace change will be more successful thanthose who are afraid of learning and resistant to change.

• Numeracy - Involving an understanding of numerical data,statistics and graphs, and is also part of making decisionsand reasoning. Numeracy skills are very important, respectiveof whether you consider a job to be ‘working with numbers’.

• Negotiation skills - To take on board other people’s feelingsand express your own requirements in an unemotional clearfashion to achieve a win-win outcome.

• IT skills - Acquiring basic IT skills and being familiar withusing a computer may open up a wide range of employmentopportunities and increase your marketability in the workplace.

• Presentation skills - Presenting information clearly andeffectively is a key skill in the work place and presentationskills are required in almost every modern employment area.

22

WE PRIDEOURSELVES

ON THE LEVEL OF SUPPORT

WE OFFER OURSTUDENTS, FROM

COURSE ANDCAREERS ADVICE,

TO TUTORIALS,ADDITIONAL

LEARNINGSUPPORT ANDCOUNSELLING

Careers Advice

The Careers, Advice and Guidance team can support you inyour journey through college and in helping you make keychoices with regards to your future education, employmentand training options. They can help you every step of the way,from choosing the right course to equipping you withessential employability skills that you will need to succeed inan increasingly competitive job market when you leavecollege. The team are skilled in offering advice and guidanceon everything from job search skills, writing CVs, preparing forjob interviews to writing personal statements for universityapplications. They can also help you access up to date andrelevant information by introducing you to a wide range ofcareers resources, both electronic and paper based.Tel: 01483 88 40 40 or Email: [email protected]

Tutorials

All students are supported by a personal tutor who will helpyou in developing your academic, professional and personalskills, so that you are able to do your best on your chosencourse. You will see your personal tutor for group tutorials and can meet with them on a one-to-one basis where you will create targeted plans to help you to achieve your goals.The emphasis is on your next step, in order to prepare youfully for your career.

Personal Support

Student Services can help you if you are facing financialdifficulties, need counselling, require mentoring for personal,social or wellbeing difficulties. They can offer you support,information and advice on a variety of areas including if youare living independently, caring for someone and/or otherpersonal circumstances.

personal and professionaldevelopment

23

Safety and Wellbeing

The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting thewellbeing and welfare of students. If at any time you haveconcerns such as bullying or staying safe please speak to amember of staff, Email: [email protected], Text: “BESAFE”to 07624 80 41 85 or Tel: 01483 44 88 44 to be connected to asafeguarding officer during core college hours.

Religion

Students from all faiths and cultures are welcomed by the Collegeand support can be offered. For more information or to contactthe College Chaplain Tel: 01483 44 85 61.

Additional Learning Support

If you’re a student with an Education, Health and Care Plan, and/ora disability or learning difficulty such as dyslexia or dyspraxia;speech, language or communication needs; a physical disabilityaffecting mobility; Asperger’s Syndrome or Autistic SpectrumDisorder; a visual or hearing impairment; or a history of difficultieswith maths or English then you may be able to access theindividual support and specialist help of our Learning SupportTeam to ensure you reach your full potential. For more information, Tel: 01483 88 40 17or Email: [email protected]

Resources

The Learning Resource Centre provides a wide range of resourcesand equipment including books, DVDs and magazines, and youcan also access electronic information including eBooks viaMoodle (the College VLE). Our information and services are freeincluding borrowing books and using the computers and afriendly team of staff are always on hand to help and support you.For more information,Tel: 01483 88 40 22 or Email: [email protected]

International Centre

Every year the International Centre helps over 1,000 students from100 different countries. We provide airport transfers and canadvise you on finding accommodation, jobs, banking, insuranceand health service registration. As well as courses in thisprospectus there are a range of English and International AccessProgrammes. For more information,Tel: +44 1483 44 86 90 or Email: [email protected]

24

get involved in:We offer a wide range of activities, from one off trips to weekly sporting activities.

• Football

• Badminton

• Guitar

• Pool

• Drumming

• Table Tennis

• Softball

• Netball

• Basketball

• Volleyball

• Student Magazine

• Water Sports

• Clothes Show Live

• Theatre Trips

• Volunteering

25

give it a go!GET INVOLVED!YOU’LL HAVE THEOPPORTUNITY TO TAKE PARTIN A VARIETY OF EXTRA-CURRICULARACTIVITIESTHROUGH THESTUDENTS’ UNION

Enrichment activities offered through the Students’ Union will extend your education and personal growth beyond youracademic courses in a way which will develop yourconfidence, social skills and range of interests.

In a competitive economic climate, where jobs and universityplaces are much contested, the fact that you will haveparticipated in a range of enrichment activities will make you a better, more well-rounded candidate.

There are many activities you can choose from, which aredesigned to enrich your personal and social life and weconstantly adapt our Enrichment Programme to meet theneeds of our students.

You can sign up to any and more of these activities through the Students’ Union, at Freshers’ Week in September andthroughout the year.

facebook likesOVER 2500facebook.com/officialmerristwood

“There is alwayssomething excitingto learn and weare always tryingsomething new”JESSEEanimal management

animalManagement

sheep and cows, meerkatsand red squirrels. The tutorsare enthusiastic, passionateand knowledgeable withindustry related experienceand we have great

connectionswith localorganisations.

The courseswe providewill give youreal, practicalexperience,leading toexcellent skillsand goodemploymentprospects.There could

also be the opportunity toundertake exciting workexperience placements suchas Shamwari Game Reservein South Africa contributingto conservation work andlocal community projects,UK Wolf Conservation Trust and working withchimpanzees in West Africa.

Jobs in AnimalManagement:• Animal Care Worker

• Veterinary Nurse

• Zoo Keeper

• Animal Trainer

• Wildlife Rescuer

• Welfare Officer

• Reserve Warden

• Animal Behaviourist

Careers in animalmanagement offer excitingpossibilities and can be veryrewarding... you could work in conservation or wildliferehabilitation both in the UK or abroad.

We have abrand newmulti-millionpound AnimalManagementCentreprovidingstate-of-the-art facilities forstudents. Thisexciting newcentreincludes adesert room, a tropical room and anocturnal room to house a wide variety of species andenable them to be studiedand cared for in a morenatural environment.

There are large collections ofanimals including rare breed

The tutors are enthusiastic,

passionate andknowledgeable with industry

related experience( )

28

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT COURSES:

Employability and Personal Development(Animal Pathway) entry level 3 Diploma Course content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Animal ManagementDepartment

• Contributing to a Team

• Career Planning

• Healthy Living

• Enterprise Activity

• Safer Learning in the Workplace

Entry requirements: No formal requirements but you willneed to pass the reference and interview process.

Duration: 1 year, full-time

Employability and Personal Development(Animal Pathway) Level 1 Diploma Course content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Animal ManagementDepartment


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living





*

*

29

Step 2 Bridging Programme(Animal Pathway) Course content includes:

• Selection of Level 2 Units

• Work Experience Qualification

• Study Skills and Assignment Writing

• Maths and English

Entry requirements: You must have completed a Level 1Diploma, or equivalent


Employability(Animal Pathway) Level 3 Diploma Course content includes:


• Significant Work Experience in a Related Industry Setting

• English and Maths

• Careers Development and Planning

• Preparation for Employment

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades D or above, or a Level 2 qualification, or relevant work experience.


* These courses are designed for those learners who prefer practicallearning and have a clear idea that employment is their aim withinthe near future rather than higher levels of education.

*

*

For further information on courses, see our website www.merristwood.ac.uk

31

Animal Care Level 2 Diploma Course content includes:

• Animal Biology

• Work Experience

• Animal Health and Welfare

• Animal Accommodation

• Practical Animal Feeding

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs grades D-E or above,including Maths, English and a Science subject, or aLevel 1 qualification at Merit or above. You will need tobe comfortable working with a range of animals and willneed to pass the reference and interview process.


Animal Management Level 3 DiplomasCourse content includes:

• Animal Health

• Anatomy and Physiology

• Practical Animal Handling and Husbandry

• Animal Nutrition

• Animal Behaviour

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs grades A*-C, including Maths, English and a Science subject, Level 2 AnimalDiploma at Merit or above, or a Level 2 equivalentqualification with relevant animal experience. You will need to be comfortable working with a range of animals and will need to pass the reference and interview process.

Duration: 1 to 2 years, full-time

new ANIMAL MANAGEMENT CENTRE

32

A BRAND NEW ANIMAL MANAGEMENT CENTRE HAS RECENTLYOPENED AT MERRIST WOOD COLLEGE, AT A COST OF £4.5M

The Animal Management Centre is a state-of-the-art building for students studyingAnimal Management, Animal Behaviourand Welfare and other related programmes.The new Centre includes a Desert Biome, aTropical Biome and a Nocturnal Zonehousing a wide variety of species to enablethem to be studied and cared for in a morenatural environment.

This new facility will enable the College todeliver a broader, more exciting curriculumfor learners as we will be able to care for a

much wider variety of species and allowstudents to interact with them more. TheCollege can now provide modernaccommodation, which not only meets theneeds of the current curriculum, but is alsoadaptable to respond as the industry changesin the future.

Some of the new species that are included inthe animal collection are Gouldian Finches,Dart Frogs, Plated Lizards, small primates andmany more.

“I love beingable to work onthe estate, itmakes afantasticclassroom”PARISaboriculture

arboriculture& forestry

including Hawaii, NewZealand, the USA, Canadaand Australia. Our coursescombine practical andtheoretical principles in

the science,management,ecology and planning of tree andwoodland care.

You willexperiencepractical work on the College’sestate and have access to specialistmachinery

and industry standardequipment. Our team oftutors have many yearsexperience in the industryand the College has beendelivering arboriculturecourses for over forty years.

Jobs inArboriculture:• Tree Surgeon

• Tree Officer

• Arboriculture Consultant

• Arboriculture Contractor

• Assessor/Instructor

• Tree Surveyor

Working in arboriculture caninvolve very diverse activitiessuch as... chainsaw work, tree climbing, pruning and dismantling, usingbrushwoodchippers or stumpgrinders,undertakinginspectionsand surveys ofindividualandwoodlandtrees,advisinglandownerson how tocare for their trees, orteaching others about the benefits of carefullymanaging trees.

Our former students nowpractise throughout theUK and across the world

students now practiSethroughout

the uk, hawaii, new zealand,usa, canada & australia( )

36

Employability(Arboriculture Pathway)Level 3 Diploma Course content includes:








Arboriculture & Forestry Level 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Disposal of Wood and Residues from Work on Trees

• Tree Establishment

• Identifying Trees and Shrubs

• Introduction to Land Based Machinery

• Estate Maintenance

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs at grades D-E or above, including Maths and English.


ARBORICULTURE & FORESTRY COURSES:


*

ArboricultureIntermediate Level and Advanced Level ApprenticeshipCourse content includes:

• Tree Climbing

• Chainsaw Maintenance and Use

• Small Tree Felling

• Chainsaw Use in the Tree

• Stump Grinders and Chippers

• Tree Planting

Entry requirements: You must beworking in an arboriculture role and beinterested in developing your skills.Alternatively, we have a number ofvacancies available every week and

ArboricultureLevel 3 DiplomasCourse content includes:

• Ecology

• Machinery Operations

• Tree Climbing

• Chainsaw Use

• Tree Establishment

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs atgrades A*-C including Maths, Englishand a Science subject, or equivalent.


* This course is designed for thoselearners who prefer practical learning andhave a clear idea that employment is theiraim within the near future rather thanhigher levels of education.

37

are able to help you find an employer.Intermediate Apprentices must haveGCSE Maths and English at grade Dor above, or equivalent. AdvancedApprentices must have GCSE Mathsand English at grade C or above, orequivalent.

Duration: 18 months, part-time for theIntermediate Level Apprenticeship,20 months, part-time for theAdvanced Level Apprenticeship.

“The College hasfantastic ridingfacilities - it has anindoor arena forshow jumping andcompetitions!”NICOLEequine

equinemanagement

competence for a range of equine careers. You’ll belearning about horsemanship,business and managementelements, offering you theopportunity to studypractical aspects of equinestudies and learn aboutmanaging and maintaining

an equineestablishment.

The College has excellentequine trainingresourcesincluding anindoor equinearena, outdoorfloodlit warm uparena and crosscountry courses.It is also a BritishHorse Societyapproved centre

and has stabling for over 40horses. Staff have extensiveknowledge of the equineindustry and related industry qualifications.

Jobs in EquineManagement:• Riding Instructor

• Groom

• Equine Nutritionist

• Equine Therapist

• Event Management

• Welfare Officer

A career in the equineindustry is a rewarding and satisfying experience... it requires hard work anddedication but can be aninteresting and exciting way to earn a living.

The equine industry is huge,over 720,000 people ownhorses inthe UK, andthere aremany equinebusinessesincludingridingschools,livery yards,welfarecharities,trainingyards andracingschools.

Our courses have a strongvocational emphasis,providing commercialawareness and practical

the college has Excellent equine training

resources including an

indoor equinearena( )

40

EMPLOYABILITY AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT(EQUINE PATHWAY)entry level 3 Diploma Course content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Equine Department


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living





EMPLOYABILITY AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT(equine pathway) Level 1 Diploma Course content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Equine Department


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living





EQUINE MANAGEMENT COURSES:

*

*

41

step 2 bridging programme(equine pathway)

Course content includes:





Entry requirements: You must havecompleted a Level 1 Diploma, or equivalent.


EMPLOYABILITY(equine pathway) Level 3 Diploma Course content includes:


• Significant Work Experience in a RelatedIndustry Setting




Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades Dor above, or a Level 2 qualification, orrelevant work experience.


Equine (Horse Care)Intermediate Leveland Advanced Level ApprenticeshipCourse content includes:

• Prepare and Clean Stables

• Maintain the Health andWellbeing of Horses

• Fitting of Tack

• Loading and Unloading Horses

• Riding for Exercise

• Emergency First Aid

Entry requirements: You must beworking in an equine role and beinterested in developing your skills.Alternatively, we have a number ofvacancies available every week andare able to help you find anemployer. Intermediate Apprenticesmust have GCSE Maths and Englishat grade E or above, or equivalent.Advanced Apprentices must haveGCSE English and Maths at grade C or above, or equivalent. You willalso need EQL Stage 1 or a WorkBased Diploma in Horse Care Level2 or Horse Care Level 2 Diploma.

Duration: 2 years, part-time for theIntermediate Level Apprenticeship,1 year, part-time for the AdvancedLevel Apprenticeship

*

*

* These courses are designed for those learners who prefer practical learning and have a clear idea that employment is theiraim within the near future rather than higher levels of education.

43

Horse Care Level 2 Diploma Course content includes:

• Fitting and Maintaining Horse Tack and Clothing

• Grooming and Feeding

• Presenting Horses Groomed, Trimmed and Plaited

• Ration Formulation and Feeding of a range of Horses

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs grades D-E or above, including Maths and English, or a Level 1 Merit or above.Very basic experience of being around horses and able towalk, trot and canter on a horse at a novice level is required.


Horse Management Level 3 DiplomasCourse content includes:

• Animal Anatomy and Biology

• Rehabilitation and Therapy

• Horse Behaviour

• Riding and Exercising Horses

• Event Management

• Horse Nutrition

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs grades A*-C, including Maths,English and a Science subject, or a Level 2 Diplomaqualification at Merit or above.



floristryFacilities include speciallydesigned floristry studiosand many of our studentsand former students areaward winning, including

RHS medalwinners and UK World Skillschampions.There are alsoopportunitiesto participatein a variety of local andnationalcompetitionsincluding the RHSHampton

Court Show. The College has vast industry links with opportunities for work experience in localflorists, and with expert, passionate tutors.

Jobs in Floristry:• Florist

• Floral Designer

• Buyer

• Teacher

• Shop Manager

• Creative Designer

Any special occasion and wethink flowers; weddings,birthdays, new babies,parties etc... which meansthe floristry industry in the UK is huge.Working in theindustry isn’tjust aboutdesigning andcreating butalso working in retail andwholesalebuying offlowers anditems related to them.

Our coursesprovide the creative flair and imagination combinedwith the knowledge of how to apply academic andbusiness practices. They alsoprovide the opportunity tostudy international floraldesign, interior landscaping,botany, horticulture, andhealth and safety.

vast industry links with

opportunitiesfor work

experience in local florists( )

46

FLORISTRY COURSES:

EMPLOYABILITY AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT (Floristry pathway)Level 1 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Floristry Department


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living



Entry requirements: No formal requirements but you will need to pass the reference and interview process.


step 2 bridging programme(floristry pathway)Course content includes:





Entry requirements: You must have completed a Level 1Diploma or equivalent


* These courses are designed for those learners who prefer practicallearning and have a clear idea that employment is their aim within the nearfuture rather than higher levels of education.


*

*

47

FloristryLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Practical and Theoretical Floristry

• Sales Techniques and Window Display

• Applied Design and Colour

• Interior Landscaping

• Health and Safety

Entry requirements: 3 to 4 GCSEs at grade C or above,or equivalent, or appropriate experience/knowledge.

Duration: 1 year, full-time or 2 years, part-time

FloristryLevel 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Advanced Floral Decorating/Special Functions

• Advanced Weddings

• Sympathy and Formal Occasion Designs

• Cost and Evaluate Floral Designs

• Interior Plants

Entry requirements: 4 to 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C includingMaths and English, or Floristry Level 2 Diploma, or equivalent at Merit or above, or relevant experience.

Duration: 1 year, full-time or 2 years, part-time

“If you love workingoutdoors, this is a greatplace to learn – theenvironment is fantastic!”OMHORTICulture diploma

Horticulturerange of plants. We havedeveloped a considerablereputation for horticulture

amongstindustryspecialists and you’ll beworking underexperiencedand qualifiedtutors whobring a uniqueinsight intothe industry.

The Collegehas a traditionof excellencewith over 40

medals won at RHS FlowerShows and a nurseryhousing a diverse range of plant species.

Jobs in Horticulture:• Gardener

• Garden Centre Manager

• Plant Breeder

• Soil Scientist

• Horticulturist

• Vegetable Grower

The world would be nothing without plants... they feed us, clean our air and provide us witha beautiful,greenenvironment to live in.Horticulturecan be a veryrewardingcareer and thehorticultureindustry lies atthe very heartof the nation’spassion forplants andgardens, both domestic and commercial.

A skilled plants person needsin-depth understanding and experience of a wide

considerablereputation forhorticulture

amongst industry

specialists( )

50

EMPloyability and personal development (horticulture pathway)Level 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Horticulture Department


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living





EMPloyability and personal development (horticulture pathway)Level 1 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Horticulture Department


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living




Duration: 1 year, part-time

HORTICULTURE COURSES:

40+medals won at rhs flower shows

*

*

51

HorticultureIntermediate LevelApprenticeshipCourse content includes:

• Development andMaintenance of Amenity Areas

• Plant Knowledge and Identification

• Safe Use of Machinery


Entry requirements: You must beworking in a horticulture role and beinterested in developing your skills.Alternatively, we have a number ofvacancies available every week and areable to help you find an employer.Intermediate Apprentices must haveGCSE Maths and English at grade D orabove, or equivalent.

Duration: 20 months, part-time

step 2 bridging programme (horticulture pathway)Course content includes:





Entry requirements: You must have completed a Level 1 Diploma, or equivalent.


employability(horticulture pathway)Level 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:


• Significant Work Experience in a RelatedIndustry Setting






* These courses are designed for those learners who prefer practical learning and have a clear ideathat employment is their aim within the near futurerather than higher levels of education.

*

*

53

HorticultureLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Establish and Maintain Plants Outdoors

• Plant and Soil Science


• Maintain Amenity Turf

• Construct Garden Walls and Fences

• Work Experience

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs at grades D-E or above, or a Level 1 qualification.


HorticulturE Level 3 DiplomaSCourse content includes:

• Principles of Plant and Soil Science


• Turf Establishment and Maintenance

• Design Principles

• Plant Propagation and Identification

• Work Experience

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grade A*-C, includingMaths, English and Science, or a Level 2 qualification inHorticulture at Merit or above.

Duration: 1 to 2 years, full-time, or 2 to 3 years,part-time


“You can tell from the veryfirst lesson that the tutorsare passionate about what theyteach and can tell you waymore than any book will”LEONlandscape diploma

landscapingand you will benefit fromspecialist instruction in theuse of stone, brick, concreteand timber and machinerysuch as dumpers, excavators

and rotarycultivators.

We havededicatedlandscapeworkshops and over 40 yearsexperience in teachinglandscaping by teachingstaff withexpert

knowledge and strong linkswith industry including BALI.

Jobs in Landscaping:• Landscape Gardener

• Landscape Architect

• Contractor

• Designer

Everyone enjoys beautifullylandscaped outdoor areasfor business and leisure...landscape workers arealways in demand to help createthese areas.

Landscaping is physicallycreative workneedingpractical skillsin building with hardmaterials and workingwith plants and turf. On our landscapecourses practical work is carried out on the estate

over 40 yearsexperience in teaching

landscaping byteaching staff

with expertknowledge ( )

LandscapeLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Understanding the Principles of Plant Science

• Setting Out from a Plan

• Amenity and Decorative Horticulture

• Landscape Construction

• Land Based Machinery Operations

• Plant and Soil Science

• Work Experience

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs grades D-Eor above, or a Level 1 qualification.


employability(landscape pathway)Level 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:






Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades D or above, or aLevel 2 qualification, or relevant work experience.


* This course is designed for those learners who prefer practicallearning and have a clear idea that employment is their aim within the near future rather than higher levels of education.

LANDSCAPING COURSES:

56

*

Horticulture (Landscape Construction) Intermediate Level Apprenticeship Course content includes:

• Hard Landscape Construction including Fencing, Paving and Brickwork

• Safe Use of Landscape Machinery


• Levelling and Preparing Sites for Landscaping

• Preparing Ground for Seeding and Planting

• Clearing Horticulture and Landscape Sites

Entry requirements: You must be working in a landscaping role and be interested indeveloping your skills. Alternatively, we have a number of vacancies available everyweek and are able to help you find an employer. Intermediate Apprentices must haveGCSE Maths and English at grade D or above, or equivalent.

Duration: 20 months, part-time

LandscapeLevel 3 DiplomaSCourse content includes:

• Horticultural Skills and Plant Knowledge

• Land Based Machinery Operations

• Plant Establishment and Maintenance

• Landscape Construction

• Surveying and Levelling

• Work Experience

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C, includingMaths, English and Science, or a Level 2 qualification inHorticulture or Landscape at Merit or above, orappropriate experience.



57

“I love how activethe College is, thereis always somethingexciting going on!”KATYpublic services

publicservices

We have an extensiveprogramme of enrichmentopportunities includingguest speakers from avariety of services, an

annual passingout parade,residentialfield trips andexpeditions tovarious parts of the UK,includingSnowdonia.Our teachingstaff haverelevantexperienceandbackgrounds

in the uniformed services,bringing their experiencesinto the classroom.

Jobs in PublicServices:• Police Officer

• Armed Forces Personnel

• Fire Fighter

• Prison Warden

There are many excitingcareers in the uniformedpublic services and we can help you make the first step towards your chosencareer... or helpyou make thatchoice.

If you’reinterested in joining theuniformedpublic servicesour coursescould help tofast-track youinto the roleyou want. We’llprepare you forrecruitment or higher studyin the sector, giving you thepractical and academic skillsyou won’t get by without.Your health and fitness arealso vital and we’ll work to build your confidence and leadership skills in team situations.

extensiveprogramme

of enrichmentopportunities

including guestspeakers and

field trips( )

60

PUBLIC SERVICES COURSES:

Public ServicesLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Role of the Public Services

• Health and Fitness

• Land Navigation and Expeditions

• Sport and Recreation

• Crime and Citizenship

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs grades D-Eor above, including Maths and English, or Level 1qualification at Merit or above.


Public ServicesLevel 3 DiplomaSCourse content includes:

• Emergency Incidents

• Government and Policies

• Fitness Training and Testing

• Exercise and Health

• Leadership and Citizenship

• Expeditions

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C,including Maths and English, or Level 2 Diplomaat Merit or above.



sport studies

and theory in a competitiveenvironment to prepare you for a range of sportingcareers. You will have theopportunity to take part

in national and regionalsportingcompetitionsand haveaccess to aweights room,sports pitchesand outdoorrecreationalfacilities.Teaching and coachingare carried out by

experienced andknowledgeable staffincluding professionalsports players.

Jobs in Sport:• Leisure Centre Manager

• Fitness Instructor

• Sports Coach

• Personal Trainer

• Sports Retail

• Sports DevelopmentOfficer

The sports industry is a fastgrowing industry featuring a diverse number of careers...both in the sports and alsothe fitness industries.

Thanks to therange offacilities andqualificationsavailable at the College,there’s really no better placeto study anddevelop your skills in sport.We’ll tap your academicand physicalpotential, helping you find the right path in thisdynamic and growing sector.Courses combine practical

there’s really no

better place to study anddevelop your

skills in sport( )

64

employability and Personal development(sport Pathway)entry Level 3 Diploma Course content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Sports Department


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living



Entry requirements: No formal requirements but youwill need to pass the reference and interview process.


employability and Personal development(sport Pathway)Level 1 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Sport Department


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living



Entry requirements: No formal requirements but you will need to pass the reference and interview process.


* These courses are designed for those learners who prefer practical learning and have a clearidea that employment is their aim within the near future rather than higher levels of education.

SPORT STUDIES COURSES:

*

*

65

fitness instructingLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:


• Planning and Instructing Fitness Sessions

• Promoting and Supporting Healthy Living

• Health and Safety in a Fitness Environment

Entry requirements: You will need to passan assessment and interview.

Duration: 1 year full-time

sport studiesLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Anatomy and Sport Injuries

• Running a Sporting Event

• Personal Training and Fitness for Sport

• Promotion in Sport and Nutrition

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs gradesD-E or above, including Maths andEnglish, or Level 1 qualification at Meritor above.


66

Sport (devel0pment, coaching & fitness) Level 3 Diplomas Course content includes:

• Practical Sport


• Fitness Testing

• Sports Nutrition and Coaching

• Sports Psychology

• Sports Development

• Sports Massage and Injuries

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C, including Maths and English, or Level 2 Diploma at Merit or above, or equivalent.



“Balancingfootball withthe academicside is hard, butthe tutors helpby giving you atime plan”shannonSport Level 3 Diploma –Chelsea Academy

footballAs part of the football squad,we will support yourdevelopment by offeringaccess to professionalservices including nutrition,rehabilitation advice andstrength and conditioning in addition to two coachingsessions a week.

Merrist WoodCollege works in closeassociationwith ChelseaFC Foundationand hosts botha male andfemale eliteCollegeacademyprogrammefor playersunder 19.

The College has dedicatedsports pitches and coachingby professional players and coaches. There are close links with sportingorganisations and teachingstaff have sportingbackgrounds and relevantindustry experience.

Jobs in Football:• Professional Player

• Fitness Coach

• Personal Trainer

• Football Retail

• Administrator


Does a career in footballsound like your dream job...we can’t promise to turn youinto a professional player but we can prepare you for many jobs in the football industry.

Our football courses will give youthe opportunityto take yoursportingpotential to a higher level,while workingtowards thequalificationsthat can launchyour sportingcareer.

Our MerristWood CollegeFootball DevelopmentCentre gives you theopportunity to compete in the Surrey Sixth FormCollege Football League andalso be represented in theEnglish Colleges FootballAssociation (ECFA) Cup. Wehave developed the all-roundpackage to take you to the next level.

MERRIST WOOD COLLEGE

workS in close association

with chelsea FcFOUNDATION( )

70

Football CoachingLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Daily Training Sessions

• Nutrition

• Football Coaching

• Portfolio of Evidence

• Option to gain FA Coaching Level 1 Qualification

Entry Requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs grades D-Eor above, or a Level 1 qualification.


Football CoachingLevel 3 DiplomaSCourse content includes:

• Daily Training Sessions

• Organising and Leading a Sports Event or Competition

• Plan and Deliver Physical Education in Schools

• Support Gifted and Talented Athletes

• Option to gain FA Coaching Level 1 Qualification

Entry Requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C, includingMaths and English, or a Level 2 qualification.


FOOTBALL COURSES:

71


72

Sport (Football) Level 3 DiplomaSCourse content includes:

• Practical Sport


• Fitness Testing





Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C,including Maths and English, or a Level 2Diploma at Merit or above, or equivalent.


73

FOUNDATION

Sport (Football) Level 3 Diplomas - Merrist WoodFemale College Academy inAssociation with Chelsea FC Foundation Course content includes:

• Practical Sport


• Fitness Testing





Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C, including Maths and English, or a Level 2 Diploma at Merit or above, or equivalent.


Sport (Football) Level 3 DiplomaS - Merrist Wood male College Academy in Association with Chelsea FC Foundation Course content includes:

• Practical Sport


• Fitness Testing





Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C, including Maths and English, or a Level 2 Diploma at Merit or above, or equivalent.


FOUNDATION

“The lecturers are the bestthing about the College. TheLRC is great and the staff arereally helpful with greatbooks and resources.”ashleygolf management

250 yards, large puttinggreen, one all-weatherartificial putting green, anindoor swing lab, sports hall,weights room and specialistgolf library with over 500books and journals on golf.Coaching is carried out byprofessional players andcoaches.

Jobs in GolfManagement:• Professional Player

• Club Administrator

• Tour Professional

• Coach

• Golf Retail


golfOver 60 million peopleover the world play golf... it is a fast growing dynamicindustry with new golfcourses being built everyday. There are manycareers in the golf industryand you don’t have to be a great player.

Our golf managementcourses will provide youwith a learning experiencewhich covers boththeoretical study andpractical skills in acompetitive environment.

Facilities include an 18-hole,par 72 privately-ownedchampionship golf-courseon site, available tostudents studying golf, afive hectare golf practicearea, driving range withfixed yardage markers to

Sport (Golf) Level 3 DiplomaSCourse content includes:

• Practical Sport


• Fitness Testing





Entry requirements:4 GCSEs at grades A*-C,including Maths and English, or a Level 2 Diploma at Meritor above, or equivalent.

Duration:1 to 2 years, full-time

GOLF COURSE:

rugby

Sport (Rugby) Level 3 DiplomaSCourse content includes:

• Practical Sport


• Fitness Testing





Entry requirements:4 GCSEs at grades A*-C,including Maths and English,or a Level 2 Diploma at Meritor above, or equivalent.

Duration:1 to 2 years, full-time

pitches, coaching byprofessional players andcoaches and close links with sporting organisationsincluding Surrey RFU. Allteaching staff have sportingbackgrounds and relevantindustry experience.

Jobs in Rugby:• Professional Player

• Club Administrator

• Coach

• Tour Professional

• Rugby Retail

England is the largest rugbyplaying nation in the world...with nearly 2,000 clubs and3,000 affiliated schools, and nearly 700,000 activeplayers of all ages. Rugby is a highly competitive sport and one which reliesupon fitness, dedication,determination and skills to succeed.

Our courses specialising in rugby will give you theopportunity to take yoursporting potential to a higherlevel, while working towardsthe qualifications that canlaunch your career. There are opportunities to takepart in national and regionalsporting competitions andwe have dedicated sports

RUGBY COURSE:

sportsturf

with the skills necessary tobuild, maintain and managequality turf surfaces to a highstandard, whilst also offeringexcellent employment

prospects.

You will haveaccess to an adjoining 18 hole golf course,specialistsports turfmachineryand close links with thesports turfindustry andemployers.

Our teaching staff also haveexcellent knowledge of theindustry and are dedicatedexperts in their field.

Jobs in sports turf:• Greenkeeper

• Groundsman

• Golf Course Manager

• Sports Turf Manager

There are fantasticopportunities both in the UK and overseas for peoplewho are trained and qualifiedin sports turf... so if you are passionateabout sportand would love to workoutdoors then this is the industry for you.

Many sportsinvolve the useof grass or turfsurfaces,includingfootball, rugby,golf, cricket, horse racing,and all these surfaces needto be managed. Our sportsturf courses will equip you

SPECIALIST SPORT TURFMACHINERY AND CLOSE LINKS WITH

INDUSTRY AND EMPLOYERS( )

80

EMPLOYABILITY(SPORTS TURF PATHWAY)Level 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:


• Significant Work Experi ence in a Related Industry Setting




Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grades D or above, or aLevel 2 qualification or relevant work experience.


Sports TurfLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Health and Safety of Others

• Maintain Equipment and Machines

• Establishing and Maintaining Plants Outdoors

• Specialist Topics

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs at grades D-E orequivalent, including Maths, English and a Science subject.You must have a work placement related to the sports turf industry.

Duration: 1 year, full-time, or 2 years, part-time

* This course is designed for those learners who prefer practicallearning and have a clear idea that employment is their aim withinthe near future rather than higher levels of education.

SPORTS TURF COURSES:


*

81

Sports Turf (Amenity Horticulture) Intermediate Level and Advanced Level ApprenticeshipCourse content includes:


• Use and Maintain Equipment and Machines

• Prepare and Operate Tractor and Attachments

• Establish Plants Outdoors

• Present, Maintain and Repair Sports Surfaces

• Maintain Health of Sports Turf

• Safe Use and Operation of Mowers

Entry requirements: You must be working in a sports turf role and beinterested in developing your skills. Alternatively, we have a number ofvacancies available every week and are able to help you find an employer.Intermediate Apprentices must have GCSE Maths and English at grade D orabove, or equivalent. Advanced Apprentices must have GCSE English andMaths at grade D or above, or equivalent and you must already hold a Level 2Diploma in Sports Turf or Horticulture.

Duration: 2 years, part-time for the Intermediate Level Apprenticeship, 2 years, part-time for the Advanced Level Apprenticeship

Sports Turf Level 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Managing Sports Turf Areas

• Drainage and Irrigation Systems

• Pesticides


• Create and Manage Grassed and Planted Areas

Entry requirements: Sports Turf Level 2or equivalent, relevant work experienceand FEPA PA1 and PA6 or PA2. Youshould also be in a position to gainsupervisory management experience.

Duration: 2 years, part-time

THE NEW CENTRE WILL PROVIDE A SAFE ANDSECURE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR STUDENTSWITH SEVERE AND COMPLEX LEARNING, SOCIALAND COMMUNICATION DIFFICULTIES AND

CHALLENGING BEHAVIOUR WHO MAYALSO HAVE A PHYSICAL DISABILITY

New SupportedLearning Centre

82

supportedLearning

Our specialist teachers arehighly experienced and wework closely with you, yourfamily/carers and the otherprofessionals involved inyour life to ensure you havethe support and structureyou need to be successful.

Life Skills Courses:• Supported Life Skills,

Entry Level

• Life and Living Skills, Entry Level

• Preparation forIndependence, Entry Level

Employment Courses:• Skills for Independence

and Work, Entry Level

• Introduction to Work, Entry Level

• Supported Work Skills,Entry Level

Stepping in toFurther EducationCourse:• Vocational Preparation,

Entry Level 3

We pride ourselves on thelevel of support we offer ourstudents. From course andcareers advice, to tutorials,additional learning supportand counselling, we’ve got it covered.

We are fully committed towidening participation andsupporting students with a wide range of learningdifficulties and disabilities.Students with dyslexia,physical disabilities, sensoryimpairments, emotional or behavioural difficulties,have access to individualsupport and specialist helpwhere needed (occupationaltherapists and speech andlanguage therapists).

“All the units arereally relevant tothe industry I wantto work in and thetutors ensure theyoffer a well-rounded coursecovering allaspects of theindustry”andrewcountryside management

wildlife& conservation

Working in the countrysideindustry can be an extremelyrewarding career. Many ofour former students havegone on to work for

organisationssuch as theNational Trust,Surrey WildlifeTrust and theWoodlandTrust.

So if you lovethe outdoorsand arepassionateabout thecountryside,this could be

the career for you. Therereally is no better place tostudy than at Merrist WoodCollege.

Jobs in Wildlife & Conservation:• Countryside Ranger

or Warden

• Estate Manager

• Environment orConservation Officer

• Wildlife Surveyor

• Conservationist

Merrist Wood has a 400 acreoutdoor classroom perfectfor studying wildlife andconservation... includingwoodlands, wetlands and grasslands.

Our studentslearn a wide range ofwildlife andconservationskills on theestate and areinstructed in the use ofmachinery bypassionate,specialist staff.There are alsoopportunities to get involvedin the annual lambing andalso greenwood crafts,including charcoal burningand coppicing.

sTUDENTS LEARN A WIDE

RANGE OF WILDLIFE AND

CONSERVATION SKILLS ON THE

ESTATE( )

86

WILDLIFE & CONSERVATION COURSES:

employability and personal development (wildlife and conservation pathway)entry Level 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Wildlife and ConservationDepartment


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living





employability and personal development (wildlife and conservation pathway)Level 1 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Work-based Experience in the Wildlife and ConservationDepartment


• Career Planning

• Healthy Living





*

*

87

step 2 bridging programme (wildlife and conservation pathway)Course content includes:





Entry requirements: You must have completed a Level 1 Diploma or equivalent


employability(wildlife and conservation pathway)Level 3 DiplomaCourse content includes:








* These courses are designed for those learners who prefer practical learning and have a clear idea that employment is their aim within the near future rather than higher levels of education.

*

*

88


Countryside and EnvironmentLevel 2 DiplomaCourse content includes:

• Estate Maintenance Skills

• Woodland Skills

• Machinery and Tractor Driving

• Work Experience

• Ecology of Trees, Woods and Forests

• British Habitat Conservation

Entry requirements: 2 to 4 GCSEs grades D-Eor above , including Maths and English, or Level 1 Diploma, or equivalent.


Countryside ManagementLevel 3 DiplomasCourse content includes:

• Machinery, Tractor Driving and Chainsaw Use

• Practical Estate Maintenance Skills

• Greenwood/Traditional Crafts and Skills

• Livestock Management and Lambing

• Habitat Management and Wildlife Knowledge

Entry requirements: 4 GCSEs at grade A*-C includingMaths and English, or Level 2 Diploma at Merit orabove, or equivalent.


89

Environmental Conservation Intermediate Level and Advanced Level ApprenticeshipCourse content includes:

• Tractor Driving

• Plant Identification

• Woodland Management

• Brushcutter Operation

• Chainsaw Maintenance

• Hedgerow Planting and Hedgelaying

Entry requirements: You must be working in a countryside or an environmental role andbe interested in developing your skills. Alternatively, we have a number of vacanciesavailable every week and are able to help you find an employer. Intermediate Apprenticesmust have GCSE Maths and English at grade D or above, or equivalent. AdvancedApprentices must have GCSE English and Maths at grade C or above, or equivalent.

Duration: 15 months to 2 years, part-time for the Intermediate Level Apprenticeship and 2 years, part-time for the Advanced Level Apprenticeship

90

As this year’s elected Student UnionPresident it is my pleasure to welcomeyou to our College on behalf of theStudent Union.

It is my responsibility as the Presidentto represent the students and voiceany of your concerns, thoughts andfeedback to the College ManagementTeam. It is very important to bothmyself and the College that you enjoyCollege life, so the Student Unionorganises events and socialsthroughout the year to help you tomake the very best of your time here.These include events such as a RagWeek to raise money for charity,Paintballing and other fun enrichmentactivities. All we ask is that you getinvolved!

Our Union is funded through the saleof NUS discount cards which, costingjust £12, provide discounts at hundredsof high street shops and restaurants.The sale of these goes towards theupkeep of our Student Union Buildingsand running events.

We really want to encourage people toget involved in the Student Union notonly because it looks good on your CV,but because it helps build the tightlyknit community we value so highlyhere. Positions for student reps andunion officers will be available in theupcoming elections and I strongly urgeyou dive in and get involved.

We hope to see you next September,until then, best of luck.

NAT FRIEDStudents’ Union President

Welcomefrom the Students’ Union President

STUDENTS’

UNIONYOU CAN TAKE PART IN: • Activities and events

throughout the year

• Student ElectionsStand for election as President, Vice- President, Clubs and Societies Officer,Marketing and Communications Officer, EnvironmentalOfficer and more

• Student RepsAll courses have a nominated rep to promote the views andopinions of their coursecolleagues - get your voice heard

• Student Voices WeekOur annual StudentConference, where we listen to studentfeedback on all sorts of college matters

• Faculty ForumsElected student reps meet with Directors of Faculty and other staff to discuss, debateand get feedback.

nus extra card£12

Get Involved!The SU is run by students for students so the moreactively involved you are, the more fun you have! Werepresent the thousands of students at the Collegeand organise sporting, recreational and charity eventsthroughout the year.

Why Get Involved? Well it looks great on your CV and you can make ahuge difference to your College life. You can make lotsof new friends, tackle new challenges and be part of agreat team.

NUS Extra CardIf you are over 16, you can apply for an NUS Extra Card or NUS Apprentice Extra Card (if you are doingan Apprenticeship) from www.nus.org.uk, which willgive you discounts from Amazon, McDonalds, Odeon,travel costs and most high street shops. A bargain atjust £12, NUS Extra is the definitive student discountand lifestyle card, saving students an average of over£500 a year.

To find out more about the SU see our Facebook pageat: www.facebook.com/officialgcgstudentsunionor Email: [email protected]

92

Financial Support

WORRIEDYOU CAN’T

AFFORDTO GO TO

COLLEGE? WE CAN

HELP...

No Tuition Fees

If you are aged 16 to 18, a British or European Union resident and on a full or part-time government-funded Further Education coursethere are normally no tuition, exam or registration fees.

College Bursaries

If you have a low household income or your household is dependent on state benefits you could be entitled to receive the following support:

• College Maintenance Bursary - this is an attendance based bursary of between £200 and £650 to help pay towards your college and travel expenses.

• College Support Fund - this is a fund designed to offer support towards the cost of materials associated with your course.

• Enhanced Support Bursary - this bursary of £1,200 is forstudents who are in care, care leavers, on income support in their own right or in receipt of Disability Living Allowanceand Employment Support Allowance to help themovercome barriers to learning.

Free Meals

Students aged 16 to 18 years of age could receive funding to purchasea meal at a college food outlet on days they are at college. To beeligible you need to have a household income of less than £16,190, bein receipt of Child Tax Credits and in receipt of, or a dependent ofsomeone on, a qualifying benefit.

Care to Learn

If you are a young parent, Care to Learn can help pay towards yourchildcare and travel costs while you’re studying. To be eligible youneed to be a parent aged under 20, caring for your own children and using an Ofsted registered child-carer.

93

Army Bursary

The Army Further Education Bursary Scheme (FEBS) gives the opportunity forstudents studying any Level 2 course (or higher), to be awarded a maximum of£4,000 while they are studying and after phase 1 Training in the British Army.For more information see an Army Careers Adviser, visit www.armyjobs.mod.ukor Tel: 08457 30 01 11.

Transport

Young people studying at Merrist Wood College can apply for a Student Fare Card.These cost £25 and entitle you to a third off travel on trains and half price travel onbuses if you live in Surrey (excluding London Boroughs). See pages 94-95 for more information.

Accommodation

The College Accommodation Team supports students in our Halls of Residence atMerrist Wood College and in homestay accommodation. We also offer a ResidentialBursary Scheme to assist qualifying students with costs. To be eligible for theResidential Bursary Scheme you need to be studying your first full-time Level 2 or 3vocational course and unable to find a similar course locally to your home (withinreasonable travelling distance). For more information on accommodation or thebursary Tel: 01483 88 40 93.

NUS Cards

If you are over 16, you can apply for an NUS Extra Card or NUS Apprentice ExtraCard (if you are doing an Apprenticeship) from www.nus.org.uk, which will give youdiscounts from lots of shops, organisations and events.

ICT Software and Print Credit

Microsoft Office is available to you for free, allowing you to install Word, Excel,PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Publisher, and Access on up to five PCs or Macs.This software is free from our LRCs and offers you a saving of over £50 if you areplanning on purchasing a laptop, desktop or mobile device for your studies. Inaddition to this, you will also receive a £10 credit to your college printing accountwhen you enrol on a course.

Student Volunteers

If you help out at our Open Events and other college events we will give you afinancial reward - normally a voucher to spend in high street stores.

For more information about fees and financial support please contact theInformation, Advice and Careers Team

Tel: 01483 88 40 40 or Email: [email protected]

Please note - information accurate at the time of printing, but may be subject to change.

94

Travellingto CollegeMERRIST WOOD COLLEGE ENCOURAGESSTUDENTS TO USE ALTERNATIVE MODESOF TRANSPORT OTHER THAN CARS We are aiming to reduce the amount of traffic, as well aspromoting a healthy lifestyle and living environment for ourstudents.

Travelling by Bike

Cycle racks are located in the car park at the back of theHarris Centre. Students travelling to the College by bicyclefrom local areas can plan their route by visiting the GuildfordBorough Council website: www.guildford.gov.uk. Motorbikespaces are available in the car park at the College.

Travelling by Car

If you do need to use a car, the College is easy to reach byroad and can be reached via several routes, including the A3 and A31. There is a student car park on site, whichprovides free parking. You must apply for a parking permitand display it at all times. We may prioritise parking forcertain groups of people.

Travelling by Taxi

Taxis are available from Guildford and London Road TrainStations. Some local companies include:5s and 6s Tel: 01483 56 56 56 and City Cabs and Cars Ltd Tel: 01483 88 86 66

96

TRAVELLING TO COLLEGETravelling by Bus

Buses run directly to Fairlands Estate for Merrist Wood Collegefrom Guildford Friary Bus Station in Woodbridge Road.

The Stagecoach Kite ‘Guildford - Aldershot’ bus departs every20 minutes from the Friary Bus Station and takes just 10 minutesto get to Fairlands Estate, a 5 minute walk to the College.

Alternatively, the number 17 Arriva ‘Guildford - WoodStreet/Fairlands’ bus departs every hour from the Friary BusStation and takes just 30 minutes to get to Fairlands Estate.

Buses run to the Guildford Friary Bus Station from thefollowing local areas:

For more information and bus timetables, please visit:www.surreycc.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/buses-and-trains

Stagecoach Unirider

The Guildford College Group has joined forces withStagecoach, who are offering subsidised Bus Fare Cards. Cards can be bought on a half-termly, termly or annual basis. Visit: www.buymyunirider.com for further information.

• Aldershot• Alton• Ash• Bagshot • Bordon • Bramley• Camberley• Cranleigh • Dorking• Elstead

• Epsom• Farncombe • Farnham• Godalming • Goldsworth Park• Hindhead• Horsham• Knaphill• Leatherhead• Lightwater

• Midhurst• Normandy• Pirbright• Puttenham • Redhill• Reigate• St John's • Tongham• Woking• Worplesdon

17THE BUS NUMBER THAT GOES DIRECT FROM THE FRIARY CENTRE TO COLLEGE

97

Travelling by Train

There is a train station in Worplesdon, but it is easier to travel to Merrist Wood College from the main Guildford Station. Students can travel by bus to the College from the main Guildford Station.

Average times for trains running from the local area are:

Visit: www.nationalrail.co.uk or www.thetrainline.com for more information and train times.

Student Train and Bus Fare Cards

Young people studying at Merrist Wood College can apply for a Student Fare Card. These cost £25 and entitle you to a third off travel on trains and half price travel on buses if you live in Surrey (excluding London Boroughs). For further information visit: http://new.surreycc.gov.uk/roads-and-transport

If you are aged 16-25 and travelling by train, you may benefit from the Young Persons Rail Card by National Rail. Find out more about this card, visit: www.16-25railcard.co.uk

Aldershot

Alton

Ash

Camberley

Dorking Deepdene

Epsom

Farncombe

Farnham

Godalming

Guildford London Road

Leatherhead

Redhill

Reigate

Woking

17 minutes

40 minutes

10 minutes

46 minutes

16 minutes

33 minutes

5 minutes

27 minutes

8 minutes

4 minutes

26 minutes

29 minutes

24 minutes

7 minutes

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Guildford

Direct

1 change

Direct

Direct

Direct

Direct

Direct

1 change

Direct

Direct

Direct

Direct

Direct

Direct

98

THE COLLEGE IS COMMITTED TO ACHIEVING EQUALITY OFOPPORTUNITY FOR ALL STUDENTS STUDYING AT THE COLLEGEAND CELEBRATES THE DIVERSITY OF THE COLLEGE COMMUNITY

Equal Opportunities Policy

Merrist Wood College passionately believesin equality of opportunity for all and iscommitted to promoting equality ofopportunity for students and staff.

The College encourages and supports asociety in which:

• People’s ability to achieve their potential isnot limited by prejudice or discrimination

• There is respect for and protection of thedignity and worth of each individual

• Each individual has an equal opportunityto participate in education and training

• There is mutual respect between groupsbased on understanding and valuing ofdiversity and on shared respect forequality and human rights

• Everyone is treated fairly with regard toprocedures, assessments and choices andencouraged to achieve their learning aims.

Everyone Matters

99

Widening Participation Policy

Merrist Wood College is committed to Widening Participation and aims to:

• Increase and widen participation to meet the education and skills needs of young people, adults andemployers in response to local, regional and national priorities whilst promoting equality and celebratingdiversity

• Continue to work towards an increase in the numbers and proportions of Higher Education (HE) entrants to the College from groups currently under-represented in its student profile

• Help to ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to appropriate advice and support to enable them to reach the highest levelsof achievement

• Help stimulate the desire of students to participate in Higher Education by raising aspirations.

Confidentiality

Your personal information will only be shared withothers who need to know in connection with youreducation, in accordance with the Data Protection Act.

Getting around the College

The College has disabled access around the campus and accessible toilets. Please contact us if you haveaccess requirements so that we can be prepared andhelp to support you.

Catering

If you have any special dietary requirements pleasecontact the Catering Manager to discuss yourrequirements or to find out more information aboutingredients and alternatives. Tel: 01483 88 40 83

ADDITIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT:We can help if you have:

● An Education, Healthand Care Plan

● A disability or learningdifficulty such as:

- Dyslexia or dyspraxia

- Speech, language orcommunication needs

- A physical disabilityaffecting mobility

- Asperger’s Syndromeor Autistic SpectrumDisorder

- A visual or hearingimpairment

- A history of difficultieswith maths or English

Our Learning Support Teamhave specialist qualificationsand experience insupporting students whohave learning difficulties ordisabilities. We are afriendly and welcomingservice, so please ask if youneed any assistance.

When you first come toCollege, you should bringany previous statements orassessments to help usunderstand your needs.

For more information about services and support available, Tel: 01483 88 40 17, orEmail: [email protected]

100

We want you to be successful at collegeand we will:

• Respect you as a valuable member of the College community

• Deliver high quality lessons that are well prepared and interesting

• Be punctual for all lessons and give you good notice of any changes

• Provide a supportive personal tutor to help you with your studies

• Discuss and agree an individual learningplan with you and identify any additionalhelp and support based on your needs

• Provide you with an assessment plan at the start of your course

• Mark your work and hand it back within agreed timescales and provideconstructive feedback

• Communicate relevant information to you in an appropriate and timely manner

• Switch off mobile phones during teaching,unless otherwise agreed with you

• Be consistent and fair in how we treat you

• Model the behaviours we expect from you

• Support your learning through access to a wide range of learning resources

• Ensure the College is a safe and healthyplace to learn

• Actively involve you and your studentrepresentatives in reviewing, shaping and improving your college experience

• Offer opportunities to participate in arange of enrichment and social activities

• Provide access to advice, guidance, financialsupport, welfare and counselling services

• Challenge you if we feel you arenot achieving your potential

• Help you plan your next study step.

The StudentCharterAS A STUDENT AT MERRIST WOOD COLLEGE WE WANT YOU TO:

• BE SUCCESSFUL

• BE SAFE & HEALTHY

• ENJOY & ACHIEVE

• MAKE A POSITIVE CONTRIBUTION

101

In order to be successful you will beexpected to:

• Behave appropriately at all times not using offensive or inappropriate languageand actions

• Wear your College ID card at all times on a lanyard or on a clothing clip

• Keep yourself and others safe by notbringing alcohol, illegal drugs or weaponsonto college premises

• Follow instructions and take advice

• Remove hats and hoods when on college premises

• Treat fellow students, staff and collegeproperty with respect at all times

• Attend and arrive on time for all timetabled lessons and activities (unless authorised in advance)

• Make use of help that may be identified to support your learning and wellbeing

• Attend lessons properly equipped andprepared including bringing a pen, paperand other basics

• Complete and hand in work within theagreed timescales

• Participate constructively and actively in learning

• Ensure you keep areas you use clean, tidyand litter free and do not consume food or drink in teaching and learning areas

• Switch off your mobile phone and musicplayers in teaching and learning areasunless otherwise agreed

• Comply with Health and Safety regulationsat all times

• Adhere to the College’s smoke free policy by smoking only in designatedsmoking areas

• Encourage and support other students inbeing successful at college by remindingthem of this agreement

• Represent the College positively at all times.

If the College feels that you are not meetingyour obligations under this Charter this willbe addressed either by your personal tutoror through the Student Disciplinary process,depending on the issue.

If you feel that the College is not meetingyour obligations under this Charter youshould make us aware of this through either your personal tutor, studentrepresentative, Students’ Union or the complaints procedure.

Equality and Diversity

The Guildford College Group is committedto the principles of equality and diversity for its learners and staff.

Merrist Wood College will ensure that nostudent receives less favourable treatment,directly or indirectly, on the grounds of age;colour; creed; disability; ethnic or nationalorigin; religion or belief; gender; marital orparental status; race or sexual orientation.

So what does this mean for me?

• You should feel that you are valued as an individual

• You should feel welcome in the College

• You should feel safe, make others feel safe and encourage all students to act responsibly.

This means - no bullying or harrassment!

Make sure no-one feels unhappy,uncomfortable, or unsafe because of your words, actions or behaviour. If youexperience discrimination in any form, contact your personal tutor or one of the Student Services Team immediately or Email: [email protected], Text: “BESAFE” to 07624 804185or Tel: 01483 44 88 44 to be connected to a safeguarding officer during core college hours.

102

OtherInformationWhat to Pay

If you are aged 16 to 18, a British or EuropeanUnion resident and on a full or part-timegovernment-funded Further Education course there are normally no tuition, exam or registration fees.

Your course may have any or all of the following fees attached to it:

• Tuition fees

• Awarding body registration fees

• Exam fees

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checking fee (if necessary)

• Other costs (such as books and trips)

Courses with a strong practical emphasis mayrequire appropriate clothing and equipment. You should contact the College before purchasingthese items, as equipment must conform to health and safety regulations.

On enrolment you must make either:

• Full payment

• Sign a binding agreement to pay by instalments, or

• Provide an ‘Authorisation to Invoice’ form, signed by your employer

Your place on the course is not secure until one of these actions has been taken.

How to Pay

Payment can be made by:

• Cash (payable in person only)

• Credit or debit card

• Bank transfer

Other Fee Information

Tuition fees will not be refunded or waived after the published start date of the course, other than in very exceptional circumstances. Studentsare liable to pay all exam resit fees. The fee policy and arrangements may vary for courses delivered in partnership with other providers.

Important Note

All fees and other information are current atAugust 2015, but are subject to change throughGovernment policy or for unforeseen reasons atthe College’s absolute discretion. Any variations tothe published fees will be agreed by the College’sVice Principal of Finance and Resources. The feepayable is the fee applicable at the date ofenrolment. Government policy on entitlement tofee reductions and tax or benefit rules is subjectto change. The information printed reflects theCollege’s understanding at the time of going toprint but you should check with the College forthe latest details before enrolment.

College Charter and Policies

The College Charter outlines the quality of serviceyou should expect from the College and what theCollege expects from you. The Student Handbookprovides general information about the Collegeand its services (both are distributed duringinduction). There is a strong commitment toquality throughout the organisation.

The following documents are available:

• Admissions Policy

• Assessment Policies

• Attendance and Punctuality Policy

• Complaints Policy

• Computing Facilities - policies relating to the use of the College network

• Disciplinary Policy and Procedures (include the College Code and Student Code of Conduct)

• Equality and Diversity Policy and Single Equality Scheme

• Guidance Policy

• Health and Safety Policy

• Learner Agreement

• Student Financial Support Policy

• Tuition Fees Policy.

103

Disclaimer

Every care has been taken to ensure that the information in this prospectus is accurate at the time of printing. The College undertakes allreasonable steps to provide educational servicesin the manner set out in this prospectus and in anyfurther documents issued to you. Programmes,facilities and other arrangements are regularlyreviewed and can be subject to change. The feesand financial information in this prospectus arecorrect at the time of publication but may besubject to change - you should check with theCollege for the latest details before enrolment. All student acceptances are provisional in the first instance. The College does not intend bypublication of this prospectus to create anycontractual or other legal relation with applicants,accepted students, advisers or any other person. Registration at the College is on theunderstanding that the College Managementcannot accept responsibility for the consequencesof any errors or omissions. The College reservesthe right to cancel, suspend, modify or changeprogrammes, facilities, services or venues in anyway and cannot accept legal or financial liabilityarising as a result. Facilities, terms and conditionsmay vary where courses are offered in partnershipor association with other organisations. You should check details with the relevantorganisation before enrolling.

Freedom of Information

The College complies with the Freedom ofInformation Act 2000, which promotes opennessand accountability across the public sector, byrequiring all public authorities to make informationavailable proactively, through a publicationscheme. For more information write to theExecutive Director of HR and WorkforceDevelopment or Email: [email protected] note that information requests may be subject to an administration fee.

Data Protection Act 1998

Information you provide to the College will bepassed to the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), Skills Funding Agency(SFA) and the Education Funding Agency (EFA).All are registered under the Data Protection Act1998. Information will also be shared with otherorganisations for the purpose of administration,careers and other guidance, statistical andresearch purposes, in line with the College’s DataProtection Policy. At no time will your personalinformation be passed to organisations formarketing or sales purposes. From time to timestudents are approached to take part in surveysby mail and phone, which are aimed at enabling

HEFCE, the EFA and the SFA and their partners to monitor performance, improve quality and plan future provision. Please let us know on your application/enrolment form, by ticking therelevant box, if you do not wish to be contactedby HEFCE, EFA and the SFA or their partners in respect of surveys and research.

Compliments and Complaints

Merrist Wood College is committed toproviding high quality services and continuousimprovement. Comments, concerns, complaintsand compliments are an important and valuablesource of information enabling us to improve ourservice to you. A complaints procedure is availablefrom your personal tutor/mentor and on theCollege website under Charter and Policies. Thepolicy is available on our website which will informyou of what to do if you wish to make a complaint.In the first instance make an approach to the areawith which you have a problem, to allow them to resolve it. If you are dissatisfied once you haveexhausted the process (which is explained in theprocedure), you may appeal to the Principal for afinal decision. If you wish to make a compliment,complaint or make a suggestion on how we can improve our services please Email: [email protected]

Insurance

The College cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to possessions and property. Studentsshould have insurance cover for belongings left on the premises.

Smoking, Drugs and Alcohol

Merrist Wood College buildings, entrances and grounds are now smoke free zones. You are only permitted to smoke in the designatedsmoking areas. The College has a ‘zero tolerance’approach to drug, substance and alcohol misuse,reserving the right to suspend any student foundto be in possession of or supplying illegal drugs. In the interests of health, safety and security allstudents are required to wear a College ID badgewhich they will be issued with on enrolment. A charge will be made for lost ID badges.

104

WWW.MERRISTWOOD.AC.UK

[email protected]

01483 88 40 40

FACEBOOK/OFFICIALMERRISTWOOD

@MERRISTWOOD

@OFFICIAL_MERRIST_WOOD

KEEP IN TOUCH

WWW.merristwood.AC.UKMerrist Wood College Holly Lane Worplesdon Guildford Surrey GU3 3PE

merrist wood college school leavers prospectus 2016:17

Documents