Be on time and ready to learn
This is not just about you being physically here on time but ready. This means being washed and well rested with the right attitude. You've chosen to be here if you're not enjoying it or there's any issues talk to us. I will rarely set homework so if you do the work and show up you'll pass and beyond.
Try and take pride in your work.
No food or drink
You get breaks. If you're eating or drinking you're not working. No one wants to work on a computer with jam all over it. Bottled water is ok, just keep it away from the machines.
Phones away, unless instructed
There will be times when using your phone is allowed but this should not be treated like the norm. I will physically eat your phone if you're using it when you're supposed to be listening to others. It's rude and you'll miss crucial information!
“I Understand”
This rule means that if you clearly understand the instructions you should say, “I Understand”. If you have questions you can say, “I Don’t Understand.” Not understanding something is ok, telling lies is not.
Work to Code
It's important that you follow instructions before doing anything else. Learn to walk before you can run. There will be plenty of opportunity to build and experiment on what you're taught. It is actively encouraged but only after you've done what's asked first.
Lab/Dojo mentality
It is ok to make mistakes, so long as you learn from them. It's ok to find things difficult, it means you're learning. Have an open mind and try. There are units you will not be able to pass unless you are finding things tricky and growing from the experiences. A lab or a dojo is a safe environment to try.
Respect the space
This is your space. Respect it. If you wreck it you and others have to work in that environment. It's a privilege to have access to the technology and be surrounded by enthusiastic people. Treat the work with the same respect “all respect should be given to a worker completing a task.” Tidy up after yourselves!
This respect applies to you and your peers too. I'm an idiot and can only concentrate on one thing at once. If someone is talking I want to hear them. One voice! If you're talking you want everyone to listen. So let's just do that. Be kind, be supportive.
T.H.I.N.K before you speak
Is it:
True
Helpful
Inspiring
Necessary
Kind
Let us know! Telling me before is a reason, after is an excuse
Things happen. Communicate. We support and look out for each other.
Brain, Buddy, Book, Boss
Brain:
Stop and think.
What do you already know?
What knowledge do YOU have to solve the problem?
Buddy:
Could you solve the problem by working together with a friend?
Has anyone else solved a similar problem?
Book:
Where can you find more information that would help you solve the problem?
What resources are available to you?
Check: Board, google sites/classroom/chats, tutorials, YouTube, forums, Google
Boss:
Be prepared to tell your lecturer what YOU have done to solve the problem yourself.
Anything else?
Something you feel we missed?
Are these fair?
Anything you want to discuss or add?
TL;DR Attend, do the work, be humble, don't be a horror and have fun
Support Stages
Phase 1
Possible Reasons:
Late for a lesson
Late back after a break
On your phone too much
Too much talking in class
Response:
The student is expected to not repeat the reason.
Note - This is an informal stage and generally we won't tell you have been given a stage one.
Phase 2
Possible Reasons:
Repeated phase 1s
Unreported absences
Attendance is below 84%
Deadlines are missed or work is incomplete
Response:
Discussion between Student and Tutor.
An action plan will be set with targets and a review date.
This will be reviewed after the end date.
Phase 3
Possible Reasons:
Failing to meet targets set from a phase 2 action plan
Repeated phase 2s for a number of reasons
Poor progression against the study programme
Failure to observe Health & Safety requirements
Bullying
Plagiarism
Damage to College Property
Unwanted attention to a fellow learner, including persistent contact through mobile phone, email etc
Violent behaviour including threats of violence
Response:
Meeting with Head of Area, Parent(s) and Student
An action plan will be set with targets and a review date
This will be reviewed after the end date
Beyond Phase 3
A range of measures can be introduced if a phase 3 action plan is not met or a more serious event occurs. These might include:
Suspension
Withdrawal
Meetings with the head of School
Referrals to police etc