Staff Handbook

01254 29 29 29 | www.blackburn.ac.uk

Staff Handbook

2013/14 Edition

Welcome from the Chief Executive Officer – Dr Thomas Moore

I believe that Blackburn College is a unique educational institution. It is very special in that it has Sixth Form provision, Further Education provision and a University Centre so it is a ‘one stop shop’ supporting student progression and attainment, serving the whole community with a full academic offer in the heartland of Pennine Lancashire.

It is also a grade one Ofsted institution and the University Centre at Blackburn College is the second largest provider of Higher Education in a Further Education College in England, with the highest rating of ‘Confidence’ from the UK Quality Assurance Agency.

The College is 125 years old this year, but it is always changing and adapting relative to its external business environment and importantly, being responsive to policy and regulatory developments affecting the education sector. By this time next year all of our buildings will be 21st century with the exception of the original Victorian college building. The facilities we have here are superb and money has been invested to ensure we

have the right infrastructure to support the application of leading edge pedagogy and provide a truly top class student experience. This is at the heart of what we do at Blackburn College.

We currently have over 16,000 students of all ages, backgrounds, abilities and interests, studying on courses from Entry Level through to Masters degrees and attract students locally, nationally and internationally.

We also work closely with employers from Pennine Lancashire and beyond, helping the economic turnaround; whilst at the same time opening up meaningful employment opportunities for our graduates. This is central to our mission as an Educational Institution working hard to become an indispensable partner to the business community; and importantly exercise our civic engagement responsibilities.

Welcome to Blackburn College – I hope you will enjoy and benefit from your time with us.

Dr Thomas MooreChief Executive Officer

Welcome

2 Staff Handbook 2013/14

Contents

Executive Team & Chair of Corporation Board 04Vision, Mission, Values & Strategic Objectives 05 Campus Tour ................................................... 10Blackburn College: The Facts ............................ 14 Awards, Accreditations and Memberships .... 16Safeguarding & Protecting ........................... 18Equality & Diversity ........................................ 19Customer Care ............................................ 20Employment Information ............................... 21Teaching & Learning ....................................... 23Health, Safety & Security ............................... 25Accident Reporting ...................................... 26College Car Parking & Disabled Parking ......... 27Catering Services ......................................... 28Human Resources & Organisational .........Development ................................................ 29Organisational Development Reps & Mentor .......Scheme for new staff ..................................... 30The Hub ........................................................ 31Moodle, Registry, Examinations Department 31

Reprographics, Learner Services, Financial ......... Services, Marketing & MIS ......................... 32Commercial & Business Development ...............35International Development ............................ 36Corporation Board & List of Acronyms ........ 37Curriculum Centres ....................................... 38Foundation Degree Awarding Powers ......... 39College Communications, Information ................ Technology & Healthy Workplace ................. 40Reasons to work at College, Benefits ...............& Quality Assurance ....................................... 42Chaplaincy & Muslim Support Worker ......... 43Data Protection & External / Internal Vacancies Commitment ................................. 44 Key Dates ...................................................... 46

3Staff Handbook 2013/14

Executive Team & Chair of Corporation Board

Director of Academic Studies & Student Support

Wendy Simms

Chief Executive Officer

Chair of Corporation Board

Director of Finance

Director of Learning & Organisational Development

Director of Resources & Estates

Paul Kellett

Rachel Curry

Dr Thomas Moore

Sir Bill Taylor

Jane McCann

Director of Curriculum Skills & Engagement

Christine Kenyon


OUR MISSION:

Provide the highest quality standard of education, training and support to individuals, employers and partners to achieve their aspirations.

OUR VISION:

Aspiring, innovating and achieving together

OUR VALUES:

Equality – we promote equality, success and respect

Excellence – we strive for excellence and realise the potential of our learners

Collaboration – we work as a team and collaborate. We contribute positively to our community

Commitment – we are committed to our learners


OUR AMBITION STATEMENTS QUALITY

1 Deliver outstanding teaching learning and assessment

SKILLS

2 Improve the prospects of young people and adults to gain sustained employment

RESOURCES

3 To build upon the College’s financial strength and capacity in a challenging and changing external landscape

Achieving

Missionthe


Our Ambition

QualityAMBITION STATEMENT

Deliver outstanding teaching, learning and assessment.

At Blackburn College students take absolute priority. The College has a holistic and inclusive approach to each and every student through tailored support in order to achieve their full potential.

There is an unrelenting determination that our students will develop, achieve and progress through our culture of excellence and innovation.

The drive for excellence is within a framework of support and challenge for staff and students. Staff are recognised as our most valuable asset.

The College measures its success, not only in terms of the achievement of qualifications, but in the wider context of our students making a valuable contribution to society.

We encourage and expect student and staff engagement to shape and design a curriculum, culture and environment which responds to the needs of current and future students.

Our clear vision, communicated effectively, is evidenced by the determination, passion, commitment and success of our staff and students.

The College’s quality strategy includes its commitment to achieve Foundation Degree Awarding Powers allowing the College to provide higher education bespoke to local, regional and international demands.

By working effectively in partnership we will meet the interests of the areas and communities the College serves.

The College’s relentless pursuit of equality, diversity and inclusion will be a key item with its Quality Ambition for 2013/14. The College will strive to maintain its ‘League of our own’ Ofsted definition of our approach to inclusion.

FULFILLING THE QUALITY AMBITION

OUR TOP THREE ACTIONS FOR 2013/14

1 Continue to improve our measures of success through innovative approaches to teaching, learning and assessment.

2 Embed fully the College’s approach to Student Voice and Staff Voice.

3 Progress positively through the scrutiny stage of the Foundation Degree Awarding Powers Process.


AMBITION STATEMENT

Improve the prospects of young people and adults to gain sustained employment.

Students leave Blackburn College with the skills, knowledge and personal qualities to achieve their potential in the work place or higher education.

A focus on entrepreneurship and social enterprise in both curriculum and enrichment will create students who are not simply job takers but job makers.

The College’s employer engagement strategy ensures that we understand and respond to local, regional, national and international training needs.

We seek feedback actively from local employers to ensure that the Blackburn College students they recruit have the skills to meet their business needs and are work-ready.

Through continuous development we future-proof the curriculum, aiming to prepare students for jobs that may not yet exist.

The College prioritises investment in our staff and continued professional updating and development, supporting the needs of the curriculum and business objectives.

Accessible information and guidance will be provided to employers on the training options available to them, promoting the value of work placements, internships, traineeships, volunteering and apprentice and higher apprentice routes.

Developing curriculum routes through the levels will offer progression to sustained employment.

Collecting and using destinations data will inform curriculum development and ensure the offer maximises positive job outcomes for Blackburn College students.

FULFILLING THE SKILLS AMBITION


1 Launch the College’s employability and enterprise strategy.

2 Continue to build on our training success with an even greater focus on working with employers.

3 Deliver improved internal progression and positive destinations for our learners.

Our Ambition

Skills


AMBITION STATEMENT

To build upon the College’s financial strength and capacity in a challenging and changing external landscape.

The College will invest to sustain a world class campus, raising aspirations for Blackburn College students and the community thereby impacting upon the regeneration of the local economy.

The College will maximise the benefits of effectiveness and efficiency to invest in student facilities and resources to enable students to achieve their potential.

Through the creation of a vibrant learning environment, the College supports inspirational teaching, learning and assessment. Providing cutting edge facilities and technology equips students with work-ready skills.

The College prioritises the recruitment of, and investment in, highly qualified staff to deliver skills to students that meet employer expectations.

The sound management of finance and resources will enable the College to continue invest in an enriched learner experience, including visits, trips and competitions.

The College’s approach has always been to remove the barriers to learning and to create equality of opportunity for all through an open and accessible campus and support package. Our ambition will see the innovative and personalised approach to student finance and welfare continue, with an enhanced student experience at all stages of the learner journey.

Celebrating and communicating the successes of the College, in order to enhance reputation and market position, will continue to be a priority.

The College will fulfil its commitment to corporate social responsibility through engagement, partnership and participation with the local, regional, national and international community.

The College will provide a comprehensive transition strategy which guides and supports potential entrants to become active, engaged and successful learners.

The creation of sustainable income streams will safeguard organisational stability and ensure the focus will remain on the student experience and successful outcomes.

Finally, the resources ambition will continue the College’s targeted commitment to reduce the resource intensity of learning through efficiency and innovation.

FULFILLING OUR AMBITION – RESOURCES


1 Deliver new buildings for the Regional Automotive Hub and Sport.

2 Implement a sustainable engagement strategy to ensure that learner recruitment achieves contract targets.

3 Produce a business development plan to achieve and increase our income targets, to ensure the effective use of resources and to invest wisely.

Our Ambition

Resources


Our campusWe are sure that you will love our £65 million Student Village, where students have access to excellent facilities and a fantastic learning environment at Blackburn College.

In 2014, the College is continuing its investment with the introduction of a new Regional Automotive Technology Hub for our Motor Vehicle students and a brand new £13.5 Million Sports Centre in partnership with BwD Council.

NCPMulti-Storey

Carpark

Lancashire Access Centre

Pennine Lancashire Access Centre To Town Centre



Victoria CentreThe Sixth Form Beacon Centre

Futures Centre Motor Vehicle Centre Sports Centre

NEWOpening in 2014

New Victoria ConstructionUniversity Centre

NEWOpening in 2014

Our A Level students enjoy their own dedicated building & facilities in The Sixth Form Centre at Blackburn College.

Our new Beacon Centre opened in January 2012. It’s £18.3 million of brand new facilities.

Founded in 1888 - we’ve been delivering outstanding teaching in the Victoria Centre for over 120 years.

Our £14 million University Centre is home to all of our Higher Education courses.

The New Victoria Centre housing Hair, Beauty & Hospitality. You’ll find Scholars Restaurant and Academy Hair & Beauty here.

Our Construction building houses many of our Engineering & Construction courses.

Our newest building is dedicated to Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths, Media & Music.

Our new £5.5 million Regional Automotive Technology Hub will provide facilities for our Motor Vehicle students.

The new £13.5 million Sport & Fitness Centre will have a gym, aerobics studio, sports hall & six lane swimming pool.

NEW SPORTS CENTREIn partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council, we are opening a £13.5 million sports centre which will include:

>

2 sports halls

Aerobics studio

Gym

Sports science lab

6 lane swimming pool That’s not all, we have: Opportunities to travel & coach sports in South Africa

Nike sports kits for all students

Experienced and industry trained tutors

In September 2014, we will be celebrating the opening of two new centres on the College campus – costing over £19 million! We are proud of our top class campus and are continuing to invest and grow which will help regenerate the area and provide an innovative and modern learning environment with 21st century resources.

NEW FOR 2014


NEW MOTOR VEHICLE CENTREOur new £5.5 million Regional Automotive Technology Hub will house nationally recognised courses in: Vehicle Mechanics

Auto Electrical

Vehicle Refinishing

> We are also proud of:

Progression rate for students going on to university and into successful careers

Our status as one of the largest providers of motor vehicle training in the region

Having over 20 industry trained tutors and technicians

Real life workshops and state of the art equipment

Strong links with major North West dealerships.

Blackburn College is proud to work with major North West dealerships to inform and develop the curriculum.

www.simpsonsskoda.co.uk

Simpsons


We were recently quoted as being in

Blackburn College

the facts:

in an interim Ofsted Report (January 2011).

from IIP Silver Accreditation, LSIS Beacon

Awards and an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted

report the list is extensive.

to receive an Outstanding Ofsted inspection.

We’re a

We were

We’re the

We’ve over

We’re the

Multi awardwinning

the first College

College

State-of-

Facilitiesthe-art

providing employment-focused Vocational courses, Apprenticeships, A Levels, Degrees and Professional Qualifications.

Further Education Collegein Pennine Lancashire

largest

provider of

College Higher Education

in the UK

second largest

£65mof student facilitiesand more in the pipeline!

in Pennine Lancashire

‘A League of its own’


We’ve

We’ve

We’ve

for progression to further training and

Higher Education.

of University Centre students believe that taking a course at Blackburn College will further their job prospects.

Apprenticeships 90% v

national average of 74%

OutstandingApprenticeship success rates versus national average

We’re proud

98%that

and in 2013 one in five of our higher

education students graduated with

First Class Honours.

professional placements throughout the North West leading to employment.

100% success across over 100 Vocational Courses

high quality,

excellent opportunities


Blackburn College

We are constantly striving towards improving the services that we offer to our students and staff.

Awards, Accreditations and Memberships

Blackburn College is rated “Outstanding”

across all areas by Ofsted.

This confirms us as an Outstanding provider in the Learning and Skills sector.

This recognises Blackburn

College as a member of the

EFB. The Employers’ Forum

on Belief is an independent

network developed to share

good practice on religion, belief

and non-belief.

This means Blackburn

College has made specific

positive commitments

regarding the employment of

disabled people.

This recognises Blackburn College as having signed the Charter for Employers who are Positive About Mental Health.

This recognises Blackburn College as a Stonewall Diversity Champion - Britain’s good practice employers’ forum on sexual orientation.


Following the Investors in People (IIP) Review in June 2011 Blackburn College

not only maintained the Investors in People Standard but also achieved additional

recognition in the prestigious Silver award. Organisations that are awarded with

the Investors in People additional recognition represent the top 6% of recognised

Investors in People in the country!

University Centre at Blackburn College has become an Apple Authorised Centre for Education (AATCe). Blackburn College is only one of a few colleges across the North West to be awarded this prestigious accreditation.

This recognises us as working alongside this national

organisation in promoting positive action training and

development initiatives to staff. By affiliating to the

NBP we are supporting the development of practical

solutions to under-representation in the workforce.

The vast majority of courses

are validated by Lancaster

University – consistently in

the top 1% of universities in

the world.

We also work with the University of Central Lancashire for our Teaching qualifications.

UCBC: Our Higher Education Partners

The University of Cumbria

are our newest partner,

they validate our top up

programme BSc (Hons)

Developing Practice in

Complementary Health

Therapies.

Our Law, Sport and Masters programmes are validated by The University of South Wales.


how does your job role help in safeguarding?

Safeguarding and protecting (child and vulnerable adult protection) Blackburn College and every member of staff have a legal responsibility to report instances of suspected abuse.

The College has a Safeguarding and Protecting Policy and works closely with other agencies such as Social Services to ensure the safety of all our students. By law, the College must safeguard and promote the well being of its students, up to the age of 18, and those classed as vulnerable adults. This includes the need to ensure that all adults who work with or on behalf of students are competent, confident and safe to do so.

Staff in the College:• Are accountable for the way in which they exercise authority, manage risk, use resources and protect learners from discrimination and avoidable harm.

• Have a duty to keep young people and vulnerable adults safe and to protect them from physical and emotional harm.

• Have a duty to follow the College Safeguarding Guidelines and to take action when a learner discloses an issue requiring safeguarding action.

• Have a responsibility to behave in accordance with the College values and the

ethos of Every Child Matters.The three main elements to our Safeguarding and Protecting Policy are:

1. Raising AwarenessBy informing staff, learners and visitors about the College’s continuing commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable people.

2. PreventionBy encouraging a College atmosphere in which learners find staff approachable to enable communication of any problems which may be affecting their lives.

3. ProtectionBy following agreed procedures thereby ensuring that staff are informed and aware of the College’s Policy, Guidelines and Procedures, and are supported to respond appropriately and sensitively to Safeguarding and Protecting issues.

The College has a number of staff who have specialist training in Safeguarding issues and we also offer a counselling service.

All staff will be given regular mandatory awareness-raising training on Safeguarding/ Child and Vulnerable Adult protection issues.

For further information contact your Curriculum Area Manager (CAM) or Barry Griffiths, Head of Learner Services (Ext 2923 or email: [email protected]).

you must keep up to date with your mandatory

Safeguarding training

Remember


Equality and Diversity

The College is committed to delivering high quality education provided by suitably qualified, competent and motivated staff that reflect the students’ community. This means recruiting the best people, retaining, developing and investing in them.

All appointments and promotions are on the sole basis of individual merit and training opportunities are available on a fair and equitable basis.

The College has a Single Equality Scheme in place with annual Equality Impact Measures which will ensure Blackburn College offers equal access to education and employment to all and will eliminate any discrimination incurred due to protected characteristics including age, disability, race, gender, religion, social background, sexuality or sexual preference.Everyone has a legal duty and moral

1. Uphold Equality Act duties to treat people with dignity and respect, and not to

discriminate.

2. Celebrate what has been achieved and share good learning and good practice.

3. Recruit, develop and retain a workforce that is able to deliver outstanding education

that is accessible, responsive and appropriate to meet diverse needs.

4. Single Equality Scheme and Equality Analysis are embedded to ensure robust internal

scrutiny ahead of external scrutiny.

5. Recognise your individual responsibility and demonstrate that Blackburn College

values the richness that diversity brings.

responsibility not to discriminate unfairly; the College will not accept unfair discrimination by any of its staff. All staff will be trained on Equality & Diversity awareness using various mandatory offers.

Any employee who wilfully or negligently fails to comply with this policy will be liable to action under the disciplinary procedure.

Richard PeregrineUCBC

Our Key Messages


Customer CareBlackburn College is working to ensure that the following services are provided for its internal and external customers:

• An efficient and effective response to all requests, complaints and suggestions within an acceptable time scale

• Professionalism and courtesy from all staff

• The projection of a positive, professional image in publicity and literature

• Quality education and training provision at all levels

• Support for the general well-being of the community

• The development for effectiveness of staff through sound management and continued staff development with equal opportunities for all

• The continued development of dialogue with customers to receive feedback and build long term relationships

• Opportunities for customers to be included in consultation regarding new developments, needs analysis, partnerships and networks.


Code of conductThe College expects all staff to remain professional and courteous in carrying out their duties at all times. Wherever you work in the College and whatever your role, all staff at the College are expected to maintain a positive image with the highest standards of Customer Care. The College has a Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics for staff. Failure to adhere to this may result in action being taken under the College Disciplinary Policy.

Terms & conditions of employmentThe main terms and conditions of your employment are outlined in your contract of employment and this would have been issued on joining the College, or if your role within the College significantly changes.

HR policy and procedureAll policies and procedures relating to staff matters can be found under HR and Employment on the staff intranet or are available from Human Resources on request.

Staff induction All new starters to the College are required to attend the mandatory staff induction programme. This consists of a HR Induction, Local Line Management Induction, as well as a Corporate Induction.

If you are contracted for 12 hours or over attendance is mandatory and you must ensure you complete the induction programme within 8 weeks of commencing work.

Disability disclosure We are committed to ensuring that disabled people, including those with learning difficulties are treated fairly. If you are a disabled person, please ensure that we know what you need, so that we can make all reasonable adjustments to help you succeed. Therefore, you are requested to declare a disability in confidence to their line manager/Human Resources when commencing with the College – if applicable.


Employment Information

Sickness absence The College seeks to promote a healthy and safe working environment and offers support via the Managing Attendance Policy to staff who are absent from work due to sickness. Sickness absence must be reported to your Line Manager by telephone as early as possible and no later than your start time. Please ensure that you are aware of how to report sick and to whom, should the need arise.

Support and advice The College has an Occupational Health Provider, who can provide assistance to staff and managers on health issues. Referrals to the Service can be made by contacting Human Resources. You can also access a confidential counselling service via this process.

Staff Welfare and CounsellingAs well as a College Counselling Service, the College has access to all local welfare facilities. Additionally information/guidance is available within College on a variety of matters such as maternity benefits, leave of absence and other conditions of service, pensions/superannuation schemes etc. Staff seeking any assistance should contact Human Resources. Staff can be helped with the full range of personal issues including stress related difficulties in a supportive and totally confidential environment. Appointments can be made via HR.

Annual leaveYour holiday entitlement depends on your length of service with the College and is set out in your statement of terms and conditions of employment or contract. For all staff the leave year runs from 1st September to 31st August and as there is no provision for you to carry days over, you must take your full

entitlement by the end of the leave year. All leave must be approved by your line manager as far in advance as possible. Those who join in the middle of a holiday year will be entitled to holidays on a pro-rata basis. If you are unsure of your annual leave entitlement please speak to your resource manager.

Pensions Staff are entitled to join the appropriate occupational pension scheme. You will be automatically entered into the occupational pension scheme unless you opt not to join. A statement on your pension should be provided to you annually by the Scheme Administrators.

Long Service AwardsThe College operates a long service award for those who have been employed in the College for a total of 25 years. This scheme is administered by HR and staff will be contacted to advise of the award when they reach their service.

Ending your Employment with Blackburn CollegeIf you wish to terminate your employment with Blackburn College you must give the required period of notice in writing to your manager, as detailed in your terms and conditions of employment. It is a requirement that you return all College property including your ID badge, parking permit, door keys or access pass.


We demand a consistent policy framework to support teaching and learning as the primary goal

We are committed to maximising the professionalism of lecturers

We enhance learner commitment and capacity for learning

We embrace a learner driven approach to bring about improved learner performance

Teaching and learningTeaching and learning key messagesAt Blackburn College:

Teaching and Learning is what we do! And we take it very seriously here at Blackburn College. Every decision made is done so with the learner at the centre of it.

The College is committed to ensuring that all staff both academic and business support have the occupational competency to facilitate teaching and learning to an outstanding level.A rigorous observation scheme is in operation and members of staff involved in the observation scheme will be observed

teaching once a year. This will either be a graded observation for all courses that are subject to the Ofsted inspection regime or peer observations if not. The outcome of the observation is a vital component of the appraisal system. For more detailed information please refer to the Teaching and Learning Policy and the Observation Code of Practice 2010.

We put learners at the heart of every decision

Our Key Messages


Each of the 6 Curriculum Centres has a Head of Centre (Dean in UCBC) as well as Curriculum Area Managers (CAMs). The CAM within the Centre line manages the lecturing staff. It is advised that new staff work closely with their CAM to gain a more detailed understanding of how College policies and procedures important to them are implemented within the Centre. These include sickness reporting, register management, timetable management, important meeting schedules, record keeping and many more. As well as your CAM you may also be responsible to the Programme Leader/Manager who will provide you with more information such as assignment scheduling and marking, target setting, internal verification and more..The FE Quality Handbook will provide information on the Observation Process, Internal Verification Process and much more. A similar document is available about the HE observation process too.

Attendance RegistersIt is an absolute requirement that a register be filled out whenever there is recordable student contact, or a member of staff is performing any

other duty which has contact hours attributed to it. Examples of this are remission, illness, and staff development time.

E-registers are very straightforward. The e-register should be taken at each meeting of the class, usually at the beginning of the session, and will already contain the details relating to the students, room number, lecturer, etc. It is hard to overemphasise how important registers are. They form the basis of our claims for finance to the Skills Funding Agency and Young Peoples’ Learning Agency and, in turn, determine what proportion of money goes to each Curriculum Centre. They are also the source of a large amount of curriculum monitoring procedures and processes. It is well to remember that they are legal, auditable documents in their own right.

Failure to complete registers will lead to disciplinary action. If you have any queries on e-registers please call the help desk on ext.2525.

The Hub – PromonitorDave Harling is the Promonitor expert. Dave works with the MIS team to make sure that Promonitor works to support our staff. We produce reports to show usage and will make changes to the system on request. Every Curriculum Centre has a Promonitor rep who will take forward any concerns and changes needed.

Higher Education AcademyThe College has recently joined the Higher Education Academy (HEA) to enable us to share expertise and resources to help us to support and develop the higher education community within College in order to enhance the quality of our provision and to impact positively on learning and teaching.

Jenna Louise GardnerUCBC


Health, safety and security The College Policy on Health, Safety and Welfare should be read and understood by all staff and is available on the Staff Intranet.

Health and SafetyAll members of staff have health and safety responsibilities, under the Health and Safety at Work Etc. Act 1974 for themselves, colleagues, students and visitors to the College.

As a member of College staff you must :• Follow safe working practices and the

training you have received when using work items

• Take care of your own and other people’s health and safety

• Co-operate with the College as your employer on health and safety

• Report to your line manager any defective equipment, unsafe activities, or inadequate precautions, if you think you or others are being put at risk whilst at work

• Ensure that all work related accidents and incidents are reported to your manager and complete a College Accident / Incident Report form, available from the Staff Intranet.

The College Health and Safety Manager can be contacted on ext: 2102

FireOn hearing a continuous alarm you should:a) Ensure that students/visitors and contractors prepare to evacuate and where possible isolate equipment i.e. turn off gas and electricity suppliesb) Ensure that students/visitors and contractors evacuate the building by the nearest available fire exit. DO NOT stop to collect personal belongings. Be prepared to receive instructions on exit routes from Fire Marshals, who are identifiable by their yellow waistcoatsc) When a room is completely vacated, you must lock the door, BUT do not lock the door if the fire is in this room

d) Proceed with your group towards the nearest available fire exit. Be prepared to give verbal encouragement to students/visitors and contractors so that a speedy evacuation can be maintained. DO NOT USE THE LIFTS

e) Disabled persons should be assisted to the landing areas inside the stairwells. These areas are fire resistant for up to 30 minutes. Staff should remain with the person(s) making sure that a message is sent down the staircase indicating your whereabouts. This message should be given to a Fire Marshal who will relay the message to the Incident Controller, who will inform the Evacuation Team

f) On reaching the final exit door, proceed to the nearest Fire Assembly Point

g) Ensure that exits do not become blocked by crowding

h) Remain at the Fire Assembly Point until you have been told that it is safe to re-enter the building. This information must be given by the Fire Brigade in the first instance, and will be relayed by:-• The Incident Controller (wearing an orange

tabard)• A Fire Marshal (wearing a yellow waistcoat)• A Site Supervisor or member of Security

staff.

Discovery of a FireIf you discover a fire, you should:• Raise the alarm by activating the nearest

alarm break glass point• Ensure the details of the fire are passed to

Central Control via the Campus Emergency Telephone Ext. 2222

• If an incident occurs outside normal hours i.e. before 08.45, after 21.30, weekends or bank holidays it will be necessary to dial 9 for an outside line, then 999 and call for the Fire Brigade

• Start an immediate evacuation of the area surrounding the fire

• Follow the same evacuation procedure as for continuous alarm.


It is the duty of all staff to:• Read the Fire Action notices on the back of

the doors in your work area to know what to do in the event of fire

• Pass all relevant emergency evacuation information on to students

• Make certain that you are familiar with fire assembly points; and ensure that staircases, landings and other escape routes are kept clear from obstruction at all times

• Ensure that doors, particularly fire doors are not left open

• Attend annual fire safety training.

ClassroomsClassrooms should be locked after each class. Food and drink must not be consumed in classrooms.

LiftsStudents are not allowed in the service lift, except for disabled students who need to be accompanied by a member of staff. In New Victoria and Harrison Centre buildings, students (apart from disabled students) are not allowed in the passenger lifts.

The College emergency procedures and smoking policy are available on the Intranet under College Documents and Health and Safety.

Accident reportingFirst AidThe College has a number of staff who are First and Emergency Aid trained. Should you require First/Emergency Aid assistance, contact Central Control via the Campus Emergency Telephone Number Ext. 2222.

SecurityAs you will be aware the College is very much an open campus and although access is controlled where possible by Security Guards it is important that all members of staff exercise vigilance, both in terms of personal property and College property. It is therefore necessary that the following procedures are adopted at all times:

• Always ensure that all empty rooms are locked when leaving the room

• Never leave personal property and valuables on view in staff rooms

• If you have concerns about any individual in the College, report your suspicions immediately to Security via Campus Emergency Telephone Number Ext. 2222

• If you have any worries about your own personal safety or you feel that the College premises or properties are being threatened, then immediately call for Security via the Campus Emergency Telephone Number Ext. 2222.

Suspect PackagesIn general, staff should be alert to the presence of suspect packages but under no circumstances should anyone approach or touch a suspect package. If a suspicious package is found, the location, position and description should be noted and reported to your Senior Manager who may then evacuate the area.

Zero Tolerance to Violence and AggressionThe College has a duty to provide a safe and secure environment for staff, students and visitors. Violent or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated and decisive action will be taken to protect staff, students and visitors. In some instances this can lead to a withdrawal of services for the individual concerned.

ConfidentialityConfidentially is paramount in any role you have within the College. Staff have a duty to ensure that information related to the business conduct of the College is not shared with any other party, including members of the employee’s family, where there may be a conflict of interest.

Personal details of all staff are maintained on a confidential computerised personnel system. Any changes in circumstances, e.g. name, address should be notified to Human Resources to enable an accurate and up to date record to be maintained.


Staff are advised never to give confidential information concerning students over the telephone.

Personal PropertyThe College cannot accept responsibility for the losses of personal property. If it can be avoided, do not bring any valuables to work. Lockable drawers and cupboards should be used to keep your belongings out of sight.

College PropertyStaff should be aware of the high cost of replacing equipment stolen, damaged or wasted due to negligence. Any cases of theft will be the subject of disciplinary action.

MaintenanceThe College Maintenance Team provides a day to day maintenance service and requests for work should be made to the Estates Helpdesk on Ext. 2541.

Blackburn College Car Parking & Disabled Car ParkingAll staff require a permit to use the College car parks. The permits are obtainable from Registry at a cost of £100 per year. The purchase of a permit does not guarantee a space and the College, its employees or agents will not be liable for any damage to vehicles on the parks, however caused.

A penalty system is in operation to ensure only valid permit holders use College car parks. Only Blue Badge holders should use the designated disabled bays, but can of course, use the other bays around College too. We do ask that the Blue Bade is displayed correctly and that you also obtain a permit free of charge from registry to help us monitor how many Blue Badge spaces we need around College. Facilities for disabled visitors are adjacent to most of the College buildings and include bays for blue badge holders. You will need to show a College visitor pass given to you on signing in. Students Students without a disability are not allowed to park on the College car park. If you are a

disabled student in possession of a blue badge you must apply for a permit (free) and exhibit whenever you are parking on the College site.

SmokingThe College Smoke-Free Policy is available on Staffnet and Moodle with summaries of requirements in staff and student handbooks.

Smoking is prohibited:• in all College buildings,• at all entrances and exits to College

buildings,• in all College vehicles and hire vehicles used

for College business.

Smoking Provisions Designated smoking shelters and waste bins are provided on campus. Smokers are requested to always use the shelters and bins to dispose of smoking materials responsibly.

Responsibilities• All staff are responsible for advising and

reminding smokers using ‘inappropriate areas’ such as building entrances and exits, to use the designated shelters.

• All College staff and learners adhere to and support the Smoke-Free Policy. New staff and leaners will be informed of the policy at recruitment/induction.

Non-compliance• College disciplinary procedures will be

followed if staff or learners do not comply with the smoking prohibitions, and the request to use of the smoking provisions.

• Anyone breaching smoke-free laws may be liable to a fixed penalty fine and possible criminal prosecution.

• The Council’s Environmental Crime team can issue fixed penalty fines for littering and not using the waste bins provided.

Cessation Support East Lancashire Stop Smoking Service website: www.eastlancspct.nhs.uk Helpline: 01254 380424 Email: [email protected]


Catering Services

Scholar’s is Blackburn College’s training restaurant and offers a great dining experience right on campus - at really reasonable prices.

Café Central serves speciality coffees and speciality teas. We also offer halal/vegetarian, hot Panini’s, jacket potatoes and soup at lunchtime. Monday-Thursday 8.30-7pmFriday 8.30-2.30pm

The Courtyard Cafe offers a full range of nutritious, halal/vegetarian, home-made quality meals which offer value for money.Monday-Friday 8.15-2pm

The Curve is University Centre at Blackburn College’s student restaurant. Serving into the evening, the restaurant serves a variety of foods including halal/vegetarian, from cold sandwiches to hot Panini’s, hot daily specials as well as a cold salad bar. There is also a Starbucks outlet here. Monday-Thursday 8.15-6pmFriday 8.15-2.30pm

Throughout the day we offer Starbucks coffee and iced drinks at 40% less than on the high street. At lunchtime in addition to sandwiches, soup and Panini’s we have jacket potatoes with various fillings and salads made to order from the deli bar. Beacon centre opening times Monday – Thursday 8.15am – 5.00pm Friday 8.15am – 2pm.

College have launched an online ordering service. Meals will be available Tuesday and Friday. In addition, you can acquire meals from the Bakery shop which will open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and can be found in the New Victoria building. We also have a new outlet at St Paul’s Coffee Bar where you can obtain STG meals Tuesday-Thursday.

Scholars Restaurant

Beacon Centre Café

Café Central

The Curve

Courtyard Cafe

Scholars to Go (STG)


Human Resources & Organisational Development (HR & OD) procedures The College is committed to ensuring good employment practices and improving employees’ working lives. As such, a wide range of policies and procedures have been devised to formalise how things are handled and ensure consistency of approach across the College.

Trade unionsThe College encourages staff to join a trade union, while also accepting that it is the right of each employee to choose whether or not to do so.

There are four trade unions that consult and negotiate with the College at Joint Consultation Council (JCC) meetings.

Organisational DevelopmentThe Organisational Development Unit is located in the Harrison Centre and aims to provide a wide range of centrally coordinated learning and development opportunities for all categories of staff using internal and external resources.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)CPD is any activity which enables a member of staff to be more effective in carrying out his or her professional duties. All staff must engage in

at least 30 hours CPD (if full-time, and pro-rata if part-time with a minimum of 6 hours) and also explore how they can collaborate with colleagues to support the creation of a comprehensive learning environment for staff. All CPD undertaken must be logged on the ‘CPD log’ on your desktop and taken to your annual appraisal.

HR & OD Strategy 2010 - 2013 Can be found on the intranet.

Has your CPD made

a difference to your

practice.....to your

learners.......?


Mentor scheme for new staffThe College operates a mentor scheme for both new and existing staff, please view the Mentoring Guidelines for further information.

AppraisalFurther information including paperwork is available on the intranet.Individual staff appraisals are seen as an element of appraising the overall effectiveness of the institution. The College believes that all staff have the following basic rights:• To participate in an appraisal scheme every

12 months• To receive feedback on their contribution to

the development of the College• To work in an environment which enables

them to reach their potential and influence the development of the College

• Appraisals will take place in a positive and supportive spirit which recognises good practice and acknowledges contributions individuals have made in the course of their work.

Linda O’Donnell CBT

Ben Taylor MARKETING

Wendy Pennington UCBC

Sonia Sterling CSF

Nicola Cunningham CHPSCS

Bob Foote CAC

Jackie Breen HBHES

Pam Mayoh CLS

Deborah Sanderson FINANCE

Jeremy Harrison RESOURSES &

ESTATES

Claire Shore ER

Saaika Mubeen HR & OD

Angela Newman Principalship

Each area of the College is assigned an

Organisational Development Representative or OD REP. The OD Rep will be the first point of contact for any staff wishing to take part in staff development activities both internal and external.

Ray DawsonResources


The Hub The Hub – Student ServicesThe Hub at Student Services is the first point of contact for all visitors to College. We have a wide range of services and information resources available for all staff, students and members of the public. Please help us to help you, your students and visitors by keeping us informed and up to date with information on courses, activities, events and visitors.

The Hub – Information, Advice and GuidanceWe are here for careers advice, university and job applications, CVs, interview techniques, personal statements and inductions – by appointment, drop in or workshops for student groups.

The Hub – Student FinanceWe can help with information on travel, childcare, subsidies, HE student loans, grants and bursaries and depending on personal circumstances, help with essential equipment/trips. We can also help with completing HE student finance forms online. As there have been several changes regarding financial support available to students we would recommend that all staff look at the staff intranet should you wish to update yourself with these changes.

Student Finance is open between the hours of 10:00am and 15:00pm.

The Hub – Central AdmissionsWe process all applications from prospective students, including online applications. We liaise with Curriculum Centre Admissions staff and with our feeder schools re applications. We also process Apprentice applications and those received from the National Apprentice Service (NAS).

The Hub – Library and Learning Resource Centres and e-LearningWe provide extensive learning resources and study facilities, including electronic resources and access to IT. Staff can help with your enquiries about computers, software and resources that you can borrow or access. Staff are also available to support with computing, information/research skills, Moodle (our Virtual Learning Environment) and other eLearning technologies. Silent/quiet/group study spaces are also available.

The Hub Services include:• Main reception• Careers information, advice and guidance –

booked interviews and drop in• Telephone and some part-time enrolments• Tutor resources• Financial advice on ALG, childcare, learner

support fund, travel passes and emergency loans

• HE financial advice on loans, grants and bursaries

• PCs and laptops (Wi-Fi connectivity), specialist software for particular subjects

• Borrowing of books, journals, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, IT equipment including DS Lite, cameras and video equipment

• Online resources through Moodle, the College’s Virtual Learning Environment

• Contact for the counselling and Chaplaincy.


9. Design a quiz to test your students knowledge and they will benefit from immediate feedback

10. The quickest way to learn is to have a chat with the “Moodler” in your office!

RegistryThe Registry team provide an enrolment service for all students throughout the year, with main enrolment taking place between August and October within each curriculum centre. They are responsible for accurately recording all students onto the College system, issuing student ID cards and taking tuition fees payments, when applicable. The team also administer staff ID cards, car parking permits, petty cash requests and the issuing of examination certificates.

The Registry team are open from 8.30am to 5.00pm on Monday to Thursday, and from 8.30am to 4.00pm on Friday.

Examinations department The Examinations Department aims to provide an efficient, consistent and flexible service to all Blackburn College’s learners and staff. As a department we offer a comprehensive examination service that follows the learner journey.

This service begins with the registration of learners in line with Awarding Body deadlines, includes the co-ordination of rooming, invigilators and access arrangements for dated, non-dated and online examinations, and ends with the recording of results and certification application for our successful students. Please visit our web site for more information.

ReprographicsThe central Reprographics unit is located in the Harrison Centre (Ext. 2168 – [email protected]).

MoodleMOODLE* is an online space which provides open access to your personalised learning environment and course materials. MOODLE gives you flexibility and freedom with your studies. It allows you to visit and revisit resources, view resources as often as you need, upload assignments from home, collaborate with your peers online, listen to lesson podcasts whilst on the go and so much more.

You will experience a varied, exciting and rich learning journey, facilitated through a variety of formal and informal teaching and learning methods; traditional face-to-face delivery, paper-based-learning and technology-enhanced-learning. These methods’ combined are known as ‘blended learning’.At Blackburn we ensure that you are better prepared for the next stage in your education or career by continually exploring and developing blended learning methods and styles to fully engage you. These can be tailored to your specific needs giving you a positive learning experience and the best results you can achieve.

Top 10 tips of using moodle1. Have a clear idea of how you want to

structure your course before you start uploading

2. Add an image in your profile - this will make students feel more familiar with you

3. To save you time upload multiple files by zipped folder in one go

4. Use rich interactive multimedia (music, video) to enhance learners’ experience

5. Click “my course” is the quickest way to find your course/modules

6. Discussion forums are a very effective tool for online communication and reflection

7. Chat sessions can be used to support distance learning students

8. Files can be shared and re-used by using ‘MrCute’ shared files option


It is a service for all staff which includes: copying, colour copying, laminating, collating, stapling, folding, booklet making and production of OHP transparencies.

Learner Services – Additional Learning Support (ALS)The Additional Learning Support service offers comprehensive and inclusive support for learners including those with learning difficulties and/or disabilities.

Our service is able to assess and deliver highly personalised support for learners across a wide range of needs to enable them to participate and achieve on their chosen programme of study, including learners on work based learning programmes.ALS can provide detailed advice, training and support around disability and inclusion for staff too.

Fresh ApproachThe College is also proactively involved in a re-engagement programme entitled ‘Fresh Approach’ which is developed for 16-18 year olds and looks at a variety of strategies that could either help a young person from becoming a N.E.E.T statistic or to offer someone who is N.E.E.T an opportunity to follow a personal pathway of learning.

Referrals are forwarded from centres in College, external agencies, social services, youth offending team and The Princes Trust. The system used is, from the referral an in depth meeting to look at issues that may have stopped these young people engaging in education, work placements or seeking employment is set up. This leads to an action plan being developed and to record any external agency involvement.

The aim of this programme is to re-engage students on a personalised programme and many have been re-introduced in the centres they initially came from and were successful and in most cases achieved a full or partial qualification. The work is carried out by working closely with many external agencies and more work is planned with young carers and Jigsaw agency that work with families and young people.

Financial ServicesThe Financial Services Department provides a comprehensive finance service to the College whilst complying with legislation and accounting standards.

The scope of services provided includes a purchase and sales ledger function, treasury management, procurement, payroll and fixed assets. Financial information is provided to the College Management Team to support the management of the college, including budgeting and forecasting. The College is committed to achieving Value for Money through its procurement process.

Marketing The College has a centralised Marketing team who work with Marketing Reps across all areas of the College. Your first point of contact should be your Centre Marketing Rep as they are likely to have answers/materials to support some of your questions. Marketing Reps: CBCT - Christine Kindylides CHPSCS - Neil Smith CCA - Andy PiperHBHES - Paul Sharples Sixth Form - Steven Parker

UCBC Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences - John Harrison


Business & Law - Susan HoldenEducation & Professional Studies - Ruth Yates Science & Technology - Katrinna McFarlane

The College coordinates marketing materials centrally - to meet brand identity guidelines. You should avoid creating your own posters/materials as the College has a ‘look, feel and tone’ that should be adhered to. If you require any marketing materials you should ensure you contact your Marketing Rep or the Marketing Team. Requests for work can be made through the Marketing Intranet site.

MISThe MIS (Management Information Systems) team work with College staff to accurately record all student data and to ensure the quality, completeness and integrity of that data. This data enables the College to monitor performance at all levels in order to meet external targets and ensure continuous improvement. The data is also submitted to our funding bodies to claim funding for the learners. The team also contributes to the development and implementation of the College’s Reporting Strategy. Areas of work include setting up courses, data validation checks and recording and reporting on achievement. Staff also provide training to staff on all aspects of student data, course information and funding changes. The e-register help desk is also based in MIS and the attendance data for all paper registers – including staff development – is input in MIS.

Statements to the PressAny press enquiries must be referred to the Head of Marketing or Marketing Manager. Remember that ‘Press’ can also include the Radio and TV rather than solely journalists in

local press offices. Official press statements or responses to press enquiries are made by the College’s PR agency or members of the Executive only using the Head of Marketing or Marketing Manager as the liaison point. Under no circumstances should you contact the press directly yourself – this can adversely affect the College’s coordinated press plans.

EstatesEstates manage all the College buildings and grounds at the Town Centre Campus and Out Centres and are committed to providing an environment which is safe, clean and well repaired.

The College Estates & Facilities Manager is Ian Barker. Contact the Estates Helpdesk on Ext. 2541

Sustainability key messagesThe College is committed to providing a sustainable environment and to reducing its consumption by 25% over the next five years. Therefore, we would ask the following:• Never leave lights on when no one is in the

room, or better still do not put them on if not needed

• Always turn PCs off at the end of the day, again don’t turn them on if not needed

• Separate your waste as much as possible to help the colleges recycling targets

• Don’t use the lifts if you don’t need to (lifts use a lot of electricity)

• Don’t use portable heaters if there is a problem with heating advise the estates department

• Turn your heating down in your room rather than opening windows

Contact the Estates Helpdesk on Ext. 2541


Commercial and Business Development (International & UK)

The Commercial and Business Development team works with all Curriculum Centres and cross college service areas to provide a responsive service to employers and individualslocally, regionally, nationally and internationally. There are four sub-teams leading on:

• Commercial provision • Business Development • External Funding • International Development and Admissions The team helps to promote full cost commercial courses on behalf of all the Curriculum Centres and as a member of staff you may be interested in one of the ‘interest’ or ‘skill specific’ courses that are on offer throughout each academic year. Some of these courses may count towards your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) but to check whether a course meets the qualifying criteria please contact Organisational Development in the first instance. Our External Funding Team would like to hear of any UK or International project ideas from staff. We can help to source funds and write applications.


International developmentBlackburn College is committed to International development and aims to provide courses that support global citizenship and provide the skills needed by students to work in the global economy. The College supports the Government’s International Education Strategy and the European Union, Lisbon, Bologna and Copenhagen agendas.

Our strategic goals for International Development are:• To improve access to facilitate overseas student recruitment• To develop and expand overseas accreditation and the remote and overseas delivery of

programmes• To develop commercial programmes for overseas corporate clients• To promote international student and staff mobility programmes and curriculum enrichment

activities.

Photography lecturer Katy Suggitt in South Africa.


Corporation BoardBlackburn College’s Corporation Board steers the activities of the College and is made up of a broad range of experience from across the community and includes governors who represent staff and student members.

Further information is available from Jean Tracy, Clerk to the Corporation Board

Guide to Corporation Board and Committees The Board has a number of statutory responsibilities which include determining the educational character and mission of the college, the effective and efficient use of resources, the solvency of the college and safeguarding its assets. The Corporation Board has established the following committees:

• Policy & Resources Committee• Audit Committee• Curriculum & Quality Committee• Search Committee• Remuneration Committee

GroupsAC Academic CouncilAP Advanced PractitionerASC Academic Standards CommitteeCCM Curriculum Centre ManagerCLT College Leadership TeamCAM Curriculum Area ManagerE College Executive TeamRM Resource Manager

Educational TermsAOC Association of CollegesAQA Assessment and Qualification AllianceBTEC Business and Technology Education CouncilCiA Courses in ActionECM Every Child MattersFDAP Foundation Degree Awarding PowersHEFCE Higher Education Funding Council for EnglandLEA Local Education AuthorityMOG Machinery of GovernmentMOODLE (our Virtual Learning Environment)NEET Not in Education, Employment or TrainingQAA Quality Assurance AgencySAR Self Assessment ReportSFA Skills Funding AgencyUCAS Universities and Colleges Admissions ServiceYPLA Young People’s Learning Agency

Sir Bill TaylorChair of Corporation Board


Higher Education is an integral part of the College’s holistic approach to education, seeking to provide progression pathways for both internal and external students across the region and beyond.

At UCBC we offer a wide and developing choice of courses from HNC/D to degrees and post graduate qualifications. We also offer a comprehensive range of business courses run by the University Centre Business School for people already in industry.

The Centre for Business, Computing & Technology has approximately 800 full-time and 1000 part-time learners and includes the College’s trade union provision.

Our apprenticeship and Train to Gain provision has grown rapidly and now delivers qualifications in IT, Business Administration, Customer Service, Retail, Finance and Motor Vehicle.

We offer full and part-time courses across a range of specialisms in creative arts and construction from Entry level to level 3. Alongside the more traditional provision we have a large commercial department offering courses and supporting individuals or companies in achieving their goals. We also deliver a range of Train to Gain provision, NVQ in MSP, laundry, OSAT and RDI.

Students from The Sixth Form at Blackburn College regularly comment on the warmth and approachability of the staff and the friendly working environment. For 16-18 year old students, Sixth Form offers AS / A Levels in over 30 subjects, and also vocational programmes in Science, Sport and Travel and Tourism. For 19+ students: GCSEs in English, Maths and Science.

The Centre offers a range of provision from Entry to level 5 both in centre and across college. The curriculum offer is available for learners age 14-16, 16-19 and 19 plus studying full-time and part-time. The centre also has a large provision of apprenticeship programmes, Train to Gain and commercial provision delivered in college and/or within the workplace.

The Centre for Care, Health & Public Services and Childhood Studies offers full time courses from Entry Level to Level 3 in Childhood Studies; Health and Social Care and Public Services. There is also a large Employer Responsive department within the centre which offers a wide range of learning opportunities for people working, or wishing to work, within the Care, Health, Early Years, Schools, Cleaning and Housing sectors. The Centre has two TQS Part B Awards for the work carried out in Childhood Studies and with School Support Staff; reflecting extremely high standards and commitment to continuous quality development. In addition the centre has received Beacon Status for Widening Participation and has recently been awarded Recognition Status by the National Skills Academy for Social Care.

University Centre at Blackburn College (UCBC)

Hair, Beauty, Hospitality, Skills for Life & ESOL (HBHES)

Creative Arts & Construction (CAC)

Computing, Business & Technology (CBCT)

Care, Health, Childhood Studies & Public Services (CHCSPS)

Sixth Form Studies

Curriculum CentresThe College operates with 6 Curriculum Centres:


What are Foundation Degree Awarding Powers?Blackburn College is taking its first step on the road to a becoming a university by applying for Foundation Degree awarding powers. If successful, University Centre at Blackburn College will be able to validate its Foundation Degrees without the need for a university partner.

Foundation Degree awarding powers will mean the College will be able to create responsive flexible degrees in reaction to market demands and the local community. It will also mean if this stage is approved, the first step towards the College gaining full university status.

Blackburn College is the first College in Pennine Lancashire to make this move. As our HE students already study in their own dedicated building, have their own dedicated facilities and we’ve been writing degrees in Blackburn for the best part of 20 years it makes complete sense that as a College we should move to gain Foundation Degree Awarding Powers.

The Facts! What’s a Foundation Degree?Foundation Degrees are 2-year degrees, which combine technical, workplace and employment skills with academic knowledge. They are designed by the College, who work closely with employers, to help tackle specific skills shortages and improve the skills of the local workforce. What can you do after you’ve got a Foundation Degree?Once you’ve got a Foundation Degree you can ‘Top-up’ your degree to a full Honours degree by studying an additional year. A student may also choose to go straight into employment with the new key skills learnt. Why get a Foundation Degree from Blackburn College?Because we work closely with employers it means our degrees contain the right skills to help guarantee a students’ future employment. We create degrees in industries where there are jobs - significantly boosting chances of employment upon graduation. And what about the employer?Local employers stand to benefit from the College’s move too. The College frequently meets with local employers to identify the skills gaps in the local market that Foundation Degrees could address. If you think there’s a skills gap in an industry or you have contacts in an industry where you know graduates aren’t meeting employer’s expectations, you should contact Nick Hall via email on [email protected] to see how you can get involved.

Nick HallCommercial &

International


College CommunicationsThe College aims to ensure that all staff have access to relevant information and an opportunity to engage in formal and informal discussion around strategic and operational issues. Methods of communication include team briefings, management briefings and notice boards.

E-CommunicationsStaff must have a login I.D to access emails, this is obtained by visiting or contacting Computer Services (Ext. 2345). Email can be accessed from outside the College via the Staff/Student area of the College’s website. Internal/External MailThere is an internal post collection and delivery service that takes place daily. Service Area and Centre staff can also visit the post room (Gateway – Ground Floor) between the hours 13:00 -14:30. Outgoing mail must be in the post room no later than 2:30pm.

Staff VoiceThe College actively seeks the views of staff in enhancing the culture within which we work.

‘Staff Voice’ E- Communication looks to build on the various novel ways already in place within which the Staff ‘Voice’ is sought internally, from meetings with the Executive to the ‘100 voices’ staff consultation events.

Staff Intranet StaffNet, the College’s staff intranet is accessible via Internet Explorer from all staff PCs. It has the latest news and events from across the campus as well as many of the College’s policies, forms and corporate documents.

College Internet SiteBlackburn College’s website contains details of courses available at the College, and other useful information, such as contacts, maps, services and facilities. The College website is constantly being updated and is the definitive resource for information.

Information TechnologyFacilities for StaffBlackburn College is committed to providing IT facilities for its staff and students using a distributed network system which allows them access to appropriate software in order to undertake their role effectively and efficiently and to support students in their studies.

The College is dedicated to providing IT training for its entire staff and to ensure the responsible use of the IT facilities.

The Computer Services HelpdeskEmail: [email protected]: Ext. 2345

Opening Times (Term Time)Monday to Thursday 8:30am – 7pm Friday 8:30am – 4pm

IT and Data SecurityUsers should back-up any important local data in case of system failure. No user should install any software on their local PCs or download software from the internet. IT equipment must not be moved without first contacting the Computer Services Helpdesk. User names and passwords are for personal use and must not be divulged to anyone.


IT and Health and SafetyRegular computer users should make themselves aware of VDU health and safety issues to minimise the risk of back pain, eye strain or repetitive strain injury (RSI).

IT Staff Development RoomThe IT Staff Development room is based in the Harrison Centre (HC-112) and contains a number of multimedia machines, a projector and screen. The room is available to staff for use of training.

Healthy WorkplaceFree LeisureFree leisure is available for anyone who lives, works, is in full-time education or whose GP practice is in Blackburn with Darwen.

Re:fresh is a unique partnership between Blackburn with Darwen teaching Primary Care Trust and borough council. They are investing an additional £6m over 3 years to increase levels of physical activity to improve heath and well being. Activities are only available on production of a beeZ card. To apply for a free beeZ card, visit one of the leisure centres to apply. Application forms are available from libraries, community centres and Blackburn & Darwen Town Halls.

Academy Hair and Beauty StudiosOn the ground floor in New Victoria Centre the College has state-of-the-art hair studios, beauty salons and spa room open to the public, and of course staff. A 50% discount is given to all staff members undergoing treatments (restrictions apply).

Staff Welfare and CounsellingAs well as a College Counselling Service, the College has access to all local welfare facilities. Additionally information/guidance is available within College on a variety of matters such as maternity benefits, leave of absence and other conditions of service, pensions/superannuation schemes etc. Staff seeking any assistance should contact Human Resources.

The College has a Counselling service staffed by qualified counsellors. It welcomes contact from all students and staff in College. The counselling service is confidential. Staff can be helped with the full range of personal or professional issues including stress related difficulties in a supportive and totally confidential environment.

Appointments can be made via the staff intranet.


Reasons to work at Blackburn College

Our employees enjoy a range of benefits including:• Excellent final salary pension scheme

available to all staff giving a guaranteed pension based on final salary, the possibility of a tax free lump sum and a death in service benefit of three times final pay

• Motor vehicle garages/workshops providing fully equipped commercial working environments, in line with commercial garages and providing service to staff, student and College vehicles

• Professional hair and beauty salon and spa offering a wide range of beauty treatments with special offers.

Staff Benefits and Promotions• Childcare vouchers - allow qualifying

individuals to make savings on the cost of their childcare via a salary sacrifice

• Shared wheels scheme – share your journey into work with somebody close by, helping towards a greener environment and hopefully save money too

• Cycle scheme – Receive tax-free bikes for work

• Medicash promotion – Health care scheme – Employee contributions required to receive money back on medical treatment.

• IT Purchase Scheme - purchase IT equipment through salary deductions, launching again - keep an eye out for more information.

For more information on all of the abovevisit the HR office in HC-102.

Drama and Musical ProductionsThe College puts on a wide range of very successful productions every year. Staff involvement in any capacity is greatly welcomed. Student involvement from all parts of the College is also encouraged. Please contact Nick Maynard Ext. 2324.

Quality Assurance Quality PolicyAs the FE sector moves further towards Self Regulation, assurance of quality is fundamental to all activities undertaken by the College. Responsibility for quality control rests with every member of the College staff, who are made aware of the quality approach by key information being disseminated through established channels. Stakeholders in the College are encouraged to comment on all aspects of the College’s provision.

Quality Assurance procedures are essential for all staff and are designed to ensure that the learners have a successful experience. All staff, academic and business support contributes to the learner experience and must ensure that they work to College policies and procedures

Details of QA procedures are in the FE & HE Quality Handbook


What Is The Chaplaincy?The College and the Church have provided three local clergypersons representing the three main Christian traditions, who are available to serve the staff and student body. In addition the College, with the Lancashire Council of Mosques, provide a Muslim Support Worker to fulfil a similar role.

How Can They Be Contacted? Messages can be left with Student Services Main Reception on Ext. 2939 or on the direct line of 01254 292390. The Chaplaincy is situated in HC-110.

What Is Their Role in College? Chaplains and the Muslim Support Worker are available for student and staff counselling in matters of pastoral concern.• They are there to support students and

staff when their help is asked for.• They can be approached to answer

questions of practical concern.• They are available as resource people.• They are prepared to give talks to groups

and classes.• They have access to resource material in

College and outside College.

Beacon prayer roomsThere are two Prayer Rooms situated on the first floor of the new Beacon Centre. The prayer rooms are BC130 and BC131.

ComplaintsIt is essential that all complaints from staff

are received sympathetically and dealt

with speedily, even though they may

seem at first to be minor or trivial.

Complaints should be dealt with at local

level as and when they arise. However, if

you are unable to do so you should refer

the complaint to the Head of HR & OD.

Other Information

Our ChaplainOur college Chaplain Shannon Ledbetter is also on hand to provide guidance or just a friendly ear to listen to you, whatever your faith. Shannon is based both at the Cathedral and at Blackburn College.

Chaplaincy and Muslim Support Worker


Data Protection and the Freedom of InformationThe College is committed to the standards and requirements of the Data Protection Act and the Freedom of Information Act. Subject to any relevant statutory provisions and information reasonably required for employment references no personal information held by the College will be given to a third party without your prior approval.

Courtesy, Dignity and RespectIt is the culture of Blackburn College to treat everyone - staff, students and visitors - with courtesy at all times. The dignity and respect of all who we are in contact with must be continuously and consistently maintained. All staff, regardless of their job or position, have the right to be treated fairly, with dignity and respect. Bullying, harassment and discrimination on any grounds will not be tolerated.

Individual Environmental Responsibility (Sustainability)Responsibility for the environment rests with every member of the College staff. Awareness of the effects of Blackburn College’s activities on the environment and ways to improve the impact on the environment is the responsibility of everyone.

You can contribute by minimising the use of energy and water by:• Switching off unnecessary lights and

equipment

• Turning down or turning off radiators• Closing doors and windows to preserve heat• Turning off taps and reporting drips and

leaks

Individuals should make themselves familiar with the Environmental Policy.

External Vacancies or Internal Vacancies BulletinsDetails of current vacancies are available on the intranet; all staff that have access to email will be able to view vacancies by email also.

Personal Mail/CallsPersonal letters should not be addressed to you at work. Personal calls should not be made or received through the College switchboard.

Gifts & Hospitality/Anti-Bribery The College prohibits employees from offering, giving or soliciting any bribe. Further guidance is available in the College’s Anti Bribery policy which can be found on the staff intranet. Any gifts, entertainment or other inducement from a student, staff colleague, contractor or other outside agency should not be accepted, except for diaries or other inexpensive materials (such as a box of chocolates) or meals in accordance with formal business hospitality. Further guidance is available from the College’s Gifts and Hospitality policy. If in doubt please speak to your line manager.


1. The College will seek to be an “Employer of Choice” within both the local

and national job markets; who aspires to excel in employment practice

and support a motivated and committed workforce

2. Empower and support managers in their role as “people managers”

3. Have effective partnerships with trade unions

4. Have excellent Customer Service at the heart of everything we do

5. Celebrate and promote success of our workforce -‘ I am recognised for

who I am and what I contribute matters’

6. ‘Invest in You’ in terms of skills and work role

7. Listen to you and get you involved in enhancing the culture within which

you work

8. Improve our approach to Wellbeing for all staff to improve work- life

balance

9. Ensure we are proactively and appropriately “ developing our people”

in order to become a learning organisation that has a skilled and

knowledgeable workforce that actively owns and seeks their continuous

development

10. Have an effective diversity strategy to secure the recruitment and

retention of a diverse workforce in order to best meet the needs of the

diverse community we serve

Your commitment to the College1. Ensure dignity and respect is maintained for all at all times

2. Actively seek to develop your skills and abilities to maximise your contribution

3. Share ideas and knowledge with your team and others

4. Work hard to achieve your goals

5. Engage with us positively and have your say

6. Ensure the learner is at the heart of everything you do

7. Accept and respond flexibly to the needs of a changing organisation and customer base

8. Ensure the principles of health and safety, safeguarding and equality and diversity are adhered to

9. Ensure annual leave is booked at least one week in advance

10. Know how you make a difference

Our ‘People’ Commitment to you


Key dates for your diaryFor staffEnrolment for full-time 16-18

year old students commences

College Closure Days:

Staff Development Days:

Administration Days for

Teaching Staff:

Tuesday 20 August in 2013

(Tuesday 19 August 2014)*

Monday 23 December 2013

Tuesday 24 December 2013

Friday 27 December 2013

Monday 30 December 2013

Tuesday 31 December 2013

Thursday 2 January 2014

Thursday 17th April 2014

Tuesday 27 May 2014

Thursday 19 & Friday 20

December 2013

Monday 7 July - Friday 11

July 2014

Friday 14th February 2014

Friday 4th April 2014

Friday 23rd May 2014

Friday 4th July 2014



01254 29 29 29 | www.blackburn.ac.uk