Keeping Safe in College

Safeguarding - Information for Students

Suffolk New College will safeguard (look after) its learners. This means that staff will make sure that learners feel safe and supported whilst at college. All Suffolk New College staff are responsible for safeguarding in College, regardless of role or level of contact with learners, and staff are trained to take preventative and practical actions to keep everyone safe. Each learner is supported by a tutor who will help them with coursework and general wellbeing.

What does Safeguarding mean in practice?

• Protecting students from physical, sexual, neglect or emotional harm

• Preventing damage to their health and development

• Making sure there is safe and effective care

• Supporting students to be safe on-line

Safeguarding our students is of vital importance to us. If you have any concern about your wellbeing, safety or rights, then you should in the first instance:

• Talk to your tutor or

• Talk to staff in Student Support

We will deal with your concern sensitively, promptly and effectively to ensure your safety and well-being. We have specialist staff to work with you and support you in these instances.

You are given information about safeguarding in college and information about how to make positive choices so that you can keep safe.

You are also able to report abuse using the ‘Keep Me Safe' link on the main menu of MySNC.

Use this to discretely report any concerns you may have about yourself or others around you. A member of Student Support will then contact you to talk about your concerns.

Health and Safety Policy

All students are required to comply with this Health and Safety Policy. As such they must ensure that they:

• behave in a responsible manner and show appropriate regard for their own health and safety and others who may be affected by their actions;

• co-operate with Managers and others having specific health & safety duties, to ensure that Suffolk New College complies with its statutory obligations and the aims and objectives of the College Health & Safety Policy;

• comply with any rules, procedures, codes of practice or any other instructions issued in respect of health and safety matters.

Students will be informed of their responsibilities through information contained in the course handbook, induction events and through safe systems of work.

Safety in Workshops

Certain machinery and apparatus must not be used by students, except under staff supervision. If in doubt, check with your tutor. For certain practical courses you may be required to purchase approved protective clothing in the interests of Health and Safety. Some protective clothing may be supplied.

You will be informed of safe working procedures and must comply with these instructions.

Emergency Evacuation

You must familiarise yourself with FIRE PROCEDURES, which are prominently displayed in all parts of the building. Fire Drills are held at regular intervals. On hearing an alarm, or in the event of a fire, you must immediately leave the building in an orderly manner at the nearest prescribed safe exit and follow instructions of the fire marshals. Your tutors will explain what to do during your Induction.

Use of Own Equipment

If you bring your own electrical equipment onto the College site it must be PAT tested before connecting to the College electricity supply. Please take your equipment to Facilities to be tested.

Click here to find out more about the Safeguarding Team

In College Lockdown

An In-College Lockdown occurs where there is an identified threat or risk of threat within the College which prevents a full evacuation taking place. This is a procedure designed to keep you safe. If you are told that the college is in lockdown it is extremely important that you follow the instructions of the staff nearby who will instruct you on where to go and what to do.

Click here to view the In College Lockdown Procedures Poster