Why not visit us on an evening . . . .
Forster
Community College
Inspiring Learning and Supporting
Communities to Prosper
BISTRO & DELI
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Learner Handbook
9 Aldermanbury, Centenary Square,
Bradford, BD1 1SD
Tel: 01274 739 788 Email: [email protected]
www.forstersbistro.co.uk
Welcome to Forster Community College
Your guide to your College
Welcome to
Forster Community College
Our Story
Thank you for deciding to study at Forster Community College & becoming a
member of our learning community. The Trustees of the College, staff and I are
here to help you achieve your individual goals, targets and aspirations.
This handbook provides some key information about the College and our
commitment to your successful learner journey with us.
Forster Community College has a rich history of providing quality education and
learning opportunities for some of the most disadvantaged members of the Bradford
Community for the past 30 years.
Your Guide to Your College
The College’s main policies and procedures
are accessible on the learner intranet
and alternate formats are available
upon request at reception.
We challenge you to reach
your own potential and enjoy
your time at
Forster Community College.
S E Philpott (MBA, MCIM)
Chief Executive Officer
We are open:
Monday, Tuesday,
Thursday & Friday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 10am - 5pm
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Evenings and Weekends
please see course details
In the 1840’s, the Reverend William Scoresby was sent to Bradford
by the Church of England and became Vicar of St Peter’s Parish Church
(which became Bradford Cathedral in 1919) from 1829 to 1847.
Reverend William Scoresby had a lifelong passion for education
which began the legacy of Forster Community College.
He was horrified by the conditions he encountered on his
arrival in Bradford and realised the need for new schools
in the community. He went on to become the founder of
four schools in Bradford, including the Parish School
on Stott Hill (now Forster Community College).
In 1980 the Provost of Bradford Cathedral, Brandon Jackson,
received a donation of £3,000 from a local businessman to
“do something” about unemployment. By that time the textile
industry had fallen into terminal decline which had taken it’s toll on
the communities of Bradford. Many were left without jobs and did
not have the necessary skills to find new work. At that time the
building that currently houses Forster Community College
was vacant. Therefore, on 15th August 1981, the College opened,
welcoming the first six members of staff to run a 35 place
Youth Opportunities Programme.
The College looks forward, embracing the challenges
ahead with a vision and continued passion for delivering good
quality education and training opportunities. Our learning portfolio
is vibrant and purposeful. We challenge you to fulfil your potential
and flourish whilst enjoying your educational experience & future
employment/career prospects.
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Getting Started
Mission Statement
“Inspiring Learning and Supporting Communities to Prosper.”
Core Values
Our values sustain an atmosphere of openness, accountability and respect throughout the organisation
to promote confidence of the public, stakeholders, staff, charity regulators and funding bodies.
1. Heart - We believe passionately in our work and in the people we support, with learners at the centre of all that we do.
Information, Advice & Guidance:
Do you know what your steps are? Do you know what you want to do after your course has
finished and how to achieve it? If not you should book an IAG appointment.
At Forster Community College all learners have access to IAG services, which can help you with
a range of questions relating to personal, academic, employment and welfare issues, to help
ensure your success.
If you are having any problems with your courses, attendance or life issues which are getting in the
way of your studies, please come and speak to someone who will try to help.
2. Honesty - We are open and honest in our service delivery and act with pride and integrity at all times.
3. Enjoyment - We put fun into learning and celebrate achievement and success.
Mentoring & Buddying:
Customer Service Statement
Forster Community College puts the customer at the heart of everything we do.
In doing so, we will treat all our customers fairly and reasonably. We commit to being:-
• Accountable & Responsible
• Professional & Accessible
• Efficient & Responsive
• Knowledgeable & Informative
• Equitable & Consistant
• Courteous & Helpful
Bullying:
Forster Community College has a zero tolerance policy regarding bullying and harassment, so you can feel
confident in talking to any member of staff about any bullying or harassment issue you may be facing and
know swift action will be taken following investigation.
Learner ID & Security:
All learners and visitors must enter and exit the building via the Main Entrance.
We ask that all visitors and learners where badges in the College. The exception to this rule
is when customers are here to use the Bistro Facility. There are clearly marked "Badge Areas"
where you must display your badge. College Staff have the right to request you wear your
badge so it is visible. Badges for learners are given out in class, please hand them in at the end
of your session.
Security cameras are operational throughout the whole College to ensure as safe an environment
as possible for everyone.
Emergency Evacuation
Our primary aim is simply to deliver what we promise, and to grow and develop our business
to meet local needs whilst pursuing excellence. If you have any concerns, or wish to comment
on standards of service, we welcome your feedback.
If the bell sounds, please leave the premises immediately. Follow the Fire Exit signs or the
directions of your Tutor. Please assemble in the car park situated on Cross Sun Street.
A map of the College and all fire exits can be found in every classroom and on notice boards in the
College.
The Access & Inclusion Team are the first point of contact at the College. Our role is to support
you, the learner, from the start to the end of your learning journey. We assist you throughout the
application process. Once you are registered on a course or programme at the College, the Access
& Inclusion Team will continue to support you. If you have any questions or require any support
please come straight to the reception desk.
The fire alarm is tested once a week. Please see College notice boards for time.
Access & Inclusion Team:
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If you have any worries about starting College, talk to a member of the Access & Inclusion Team.
What is important is that you have the right support and feel happy attending College. We are able to
link you with a Mentor or Buddy if this is helpful.
Fire Alarm Test:
First Aid:
The College has members of staff who are trained in first aid. A First Aider can be contacted
via reception or by asking any member of staff.
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Be Healthy
Be Safe
The Pop-up Bistro is situated in the main communal area. This provides an assorted
menu, with daily specials and healthy eating options.
The Trustees and Management of Forster Community College are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all young people and vulnerable adults. Staff are fully trained, CRB checked and
there is an expectation that all staff and volunteers share this commitment.
Pop-up Bistro:
Water Fountains:
There are a number of drinking fountains around the College.
We encourage learners to make sure they stay well hydrated throughout
the day as this will improve concentration and general health. Drinks,
however, are not allowed in computing rooms for safety reasons.
Smoke Free Site:
The College building and grounds are a smoke - free zone. If you are caught smoking in the building
or grounds this can result in disciplinary action.
Health Trainers:
We have access to an NHS Health Trainer at the College, who helps people to develop healthy
behaviours and lifestyles.They offer practical support to individuals to help them change their
behaviour in order to achieve their own choices and goals.To book an appointment with a Health Trainer
please contact reception.
Life Coach Service/Personal Trainer:
We can call on the services of or refer people to a Life Coach/Personal Trainer, who will help people to
work on their self confidence and self esteem, and set themselves goals to overcome any barriers they
have in realising their ambitions, simply ask for information at reception.
Alcohol & Drug Misuse:
The College has a zero - tolerance policy on alcohol and drug use. Any learner suspected of being under
the influence of any non-prescribed substance, will be asked to leave College and may result in a disciplinary action. If you are struggling with substance addiction, referrals can be made to specialised organisations. Please talk to a member of staff.
Exercise:
We encourage all learners to take part in regular exercise, as it is an essential part of healthy living.
Using Computer Equipment:
Forster Community College promotes the healthy use of computers.
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Safeguarding:
If for any reason you feel unsafe or if you identify a safeguarding issue please go to reception where
you will be directed to a Safeguarding Officer.
Get into the Green Scene
The College recognises that it’s activities have an environmental
impact and acknowledges it’s responsibility for the protection of the environment and for the health
of the College population and the local communities. We also encourage our learners to think about
their own individual impact on the environment locally and globally
Recycling:
Please help the College reduce its global footprint by using the recycling bins for paper, plastic and
cans which are situated around the College.
Getting to College:
We encourage all learners to walk or cycle to College when possible. If you are unable to do this,
the College is also well serviced by public transport, via the local bus and train stations.
Land Based Studies
The Land Based Studies Department champions’ local produce, specialises in the production of
food from soil to plate and works to help develop protect and improve green spaces across the district. We work closely with our centre for excellence in hospitality and catering at the college and
grown a wide range of fruit and vegetables which are used by our trainee chefs and Forsters Bistro
and Deli. The department supports learners who wish to gain basic qualifications and
experience in horticulture through our entry courses and volunteering opportunities and are able
to support other community groups through our consultancy work on conservation management
and project development.
Forster Community College’s Little Shop:
Recycle your unwanted clothes and small household items at the College’s Little Shop.
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Enjoy and Achieve:
The College is proud of it’s happy,
community-focused environment,
where learning is developed in a
creative and enjoyable way and Tutors
will encourage you to personalise
your learning.
Learn -Work - Fl urish
Attendance:
At Forster Community College your
success, progression and helping you achieve
your personal goals is very
important to us. We recognise that
attendance is key to this success and so
monitor it closely. It is expected that you
will attend all of your classes.
All doctor or dentist appointments should
be booked outside class hours.
We understand that you may have
mandatory appointments e.g. job centre or
with your work coach. On an occasion that
you are unable to attend, please inform the
your Tutor or call the College on
01274 308 707 as soon as you are able before your class.
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Forster Community College is commited to...
F ocus on an
O rganisation that will
R ealise your
S kills
T alents
E mployability needs and help you
R each your goals
If you are late for your class you must pick
up and complete a "Pink Slip" before going
to class. The slip will ask you to detail the
reason for your lateness. If you are late for
more than one call you may be asked to
meet with the department lead to discuss
barriers to your punctual attendance.
Equality Statement:
Forster Community College is committed to creating equality of opportunity for everyone, irrespective of gender, race, disability, gender affiliation, religious beliefs, age, sexual
orientation, culture class; economic or any other disadvantage.
The Management Team with the support of Trustees, strive to create an atmosphere of
mutual respect between staff, learners and the wider community, and will continually monitor
and review procedures to ensure that there are no discriminatory practices.
The College is committed to combating all forms of discrimination and ensuring that all Staff
and Learners can reach their full potential in the labour market.
Diversity Statement:
Forster Community College is proud to be a multi-cultural community. We value
diversity, and are determined to ensure:
• That we treat all individuals fairly, with dignity and respect;
• That the opportunities we provide are open to all;
• That we provide a respectful, supportive and welcoming atmosphere for staff,
learners, volunteers, placements and visitors that encourages difference, welcomes diverse
backgrounds and seeks to ensure the value of each person for their individual differences
that contribute to our college working and learning environments.
As a College our goal is to create an environment that encourages new ways of thinking
and working and valuing contributions and perspectives from all works and all life
experiences will seek to ensure this by: Providing a workplace and learning
establishment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation and;
Supporting staff, learners, volunteers, placements and visitors with policies and practices
that recognise individual performance and contribution.
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Learner Charter
Achieve Economic Well Being
Forster Community College’s Learner Charter sets out the
services you can expect as a Learner in the College.
The charter also explains the expectations we have of
you as a member of our community. The charter exists
within a framework of College Policies and
procedures and is monitored annually.
At Forster Community College, an integral part of each course is to equip all learners
with independence and prepare learners for a working life so they can access the labour
market. The College does this through:
• Finance workshops • IAG & Career guidance • Vocational studies
• Visits from Key Employers • Job search & Job match sessions • CV writing sessions
• Invaluable experienced staff • Relevant work experience and placements
We expect our learners to take pride in the College and abide by our policies. We ask all
our learners to show respect to staff and other learners and work co-operatively.
If you need help or advice, or if you feel we have not provided the service we have promised, speak to any member of staff.
We do not tolerate any learners who attend College under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances, or have offensive weapons upon their person. This will result in
disciplinary action.
In return, learners can expect the College to provide a welcoming, safe environment in
which to learn. We will listen and respond to your needs and aspirations in a confidential
manner, giving honest and clear information so learners can make informed choices. The
College will respect each learner’s individual rights and give equal access to all learning
opportunities.You will receive an induction to your course as well as regular reviews of
your work. Work will be marked within agreed timelines and clear feedback given.
Our performance as a College is measured to ensure we continually improve the service
we provide to you, the learner.
We welcome your comments and feedback.You can do this by completing learner
surveys, an LF10 form or by writing in our comments books at reception.You can also get
involved in the ‘Learner Forum’ please see page 12.
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Make a Positive Contribution
Forster Community College encourages all learners to
get involved with our learning community.
The College is committed to hearing feedback
and involving you in decision making on all
aspects of College life. The College offers a
variety of ways to get involved; surveys,
comment books, Facebook, Twitter,
celebration events and the Learner
Forum.
Get involved and together you and
the College have the opportunity
to learn and prosper.
Active Citizen:
Volunteering opportunities to
encourage wider involvement
in College activity.
We recognise individual
contribution via our
awards scheme.
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The Learner Forum
Frequently Asked Questions
As a learner you are entitled to attend the Learner Forum.
The Forum is held once a term. At the Forum you will be
given the opportunity to discuss any area of College life,
your learning or the building. Watch out for dates advertised about the College or speak to your Tutor.
What do I do if I think I’m on the wrong course?
Talk to your Tutor
Make an IAG appointment at reception
Speak with your Connexions Advisor
As a Learner Forum member you will also get your chance to represent your fellow
learners on Health & Safety, Equality & Diversity Forums and/or become a Course Representative, by attending regular forum meetings.
Where do I go if I’m being bullied?
Speak to your Tutor or a member of staff
Complete a ‘Concern Form’ and hand to reception
(you will receive a reply within 48 hours)
Register a formal complaint
A representative’s role is to consult with other learners and voice their opinions and the
opinions of other learners to the Forster Community College management team.
The College welcomes your ideas and what you think would make the College a
better place to learn. To become a course representative speak to your Course Tutors.
Exhibitions & Celebration Events:
At the College, Learner achievement is important. We are proud to display the efforts of
our learner’s work and record College events. This is why we wish to join with them to
celebrate their achievement by presenting certificates gained in a celebratory manner.
Voluntary and Community Events
We believe that all voluntary working is key to learners development, which is why we
encourage and support our learners to take on voluntary and community activities
outside their studies.
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How do I access other College services? E.g. Health Trainer, Job Coaching
Speak to your Tutor
Ask at Reception for a referral form
How do I get involved in other activities and events at the College?
Via the Learner Forum
Keep up to date with information posted on notice boards
See events calendar on website or notice board
Find us @ Twitter & Face Book
Who should I see if I have lost any of my belongings?
Report it to Reception
Who do I need to inform if I am going to be late or I am ill?
Leave a message at Reception or answer phone facility
Send a letter or sick note applicable to your learning or employment support contract
See page 8
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Complaints & Concerns
Mobile Phones
The College recognises that there may be
occasions when learners feel that their legitimate
expectations are not being met, or where there
may be misunderstandings about the nature
of the College’s concerns or
complaint procedure.
Please respect others in communal areas
when using your phone to
play music or games.
The complaints and concerns procedure is divided into two stages;
the first, informal stage encourages learners to seek resolution of their concerns as close
to the origin of the concern as possible.
Mobile phones must not be used during lessons, this is disruptive to the learning
experience of yourself and those around you.
Phones must not be taken into examinations.
The second, formal stage provides a mechanism for the investigation and resolution of
complaints, where individuals believe that their concern has not been addressed to their
satisfaction. Initially, any complaints should be made in writing. The matter will then be investigated. In the event that the matter cannot be resolved and if dissatisfaction
persists an appeal can be made to the Chief Executive whose decision is final.
Copies of the procedure and forms are available from reception
Personal Property
You Can Expect the College to:
• Provide a complaints procedure which is clear and accessible and follows the principle
of natural justice, and which complies with national guidelines
• Provide informal and formal advice if you feel you have cause for complaint
• Deal with a complaint fairly, privately, without fear of recrimination, and in
a timely manner
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Anyone found with a mobile phone during an examination will be removed from the
room and not permitted to complete their exam.
Please take care of your bags and
personal property while on the
premises. The College is not
insured for your personal
property and accepts no
liability for any loss or damage.
Parking
All vehicles are parked at
owners’ risk. The College
cannot accept responsibility
for any damage to vehicles
and please be considerate
to others when parking.
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Learner Information
Support Services
The safety of our learners is a priority to us. If you have any reason to feel unsafe or in
danger, please speak to a member of staff who will listen to your concern and deal with it
appropriately. This also applies if you have any concerns regarding the safety of
another learner.
At Forster Community College we have a Health Trainer who can offer support around
feeling happier, eating healthier, reducing stress, managing your weight and getting fit. All
support offered is on a one to one basis with complete confidentiality.
At Forster Community College we care about your
well-being and staff are always happy to assist you or
can direct you to trained professionals who can help
and support you. If you prefer you can contact
support services direct.
ISSUE/CONCERN
Rape Crisis
Bradford Rape Crisis &
Sexual Abuse Survivors Service
Homelessness
Bradford Night Stop
Domestic Violence Service
Family Action
Homelessness
Domestic Violence Service
Domestic Violence Service
Debt Problems
Bereavement Service
Cancer Support
Family Planning Service
Bradford City Centre Project
Oasis Project
Staying Put
CHAS
Bradford Bereavement Support
Bradford Cancer Support
Horton Park Medical Centre
CONTACT NUMBER
01274 308270
01274 776888
01274 533400
01274 577571
01274 371151
01274 667104
01274 726790
01274 619522
01274 776688
01274 228899
Benefits Advice
Citizens Advice Bureau
0844 245 1282
Drugs and Alcohol
Bridge Project
01274 723863
Housing and debt issues
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ORGANISATION
Please speak to a member of staff if you would an appointment with the Health Trainer.
Incommunities
01274 254751
ISSUE/CONCERN
ORGANISATION
CONTACT NUMBER
Drugs and Alcohol
Bradford Drug Dependency
Services
01274 773800
Drugs and Alcohol
Drugs & Alcohol
Jabez Hall
01274 499900
Caleb
01274 720101
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual,
Transsexual &Transgender
Housing
The Fort
Young Peoples Information
Shop
Information & Advice Centre
01274 432 431
Bradford Friends
01274 723802
Sexual Health Issues
Sexual Health GUM Clinic
01274 200024
Adult Asperger's Syndrome
and Autism Support
SACAR
01274 778 888
0845 259 1932
Dyslexia Support
LABDA
01274 771 153
Child Safeguarding
Child Safeguarding Board
01274 437500
Adult Safeguarding
Adult Safeguarding Board
01274 431077
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Wellbeing Guide
Need Someone To Talk Too?
www.mentalhealthinbradford.nhs.uk/
Come along and speak to a staff member
Here you can find information about looking after
your mental health, including self-help tips and a comprehensive directory of services in the Bradford and
Airedale district.
What is mental health?
Mental health is about how we cope with life's stresses and strains. Our wellbeing is affected by a number of factors including social, economic, environmental and biological. It
is also influenced by our ability to talk about problems and find the right kinds of
support.
Everybody has days when small things feel overwhelming and they need some help and
support. If you are worried about your own mental health or that of a family member or
friend, it is important to get help as quickly as possible. Ignoring problems doesn't make
them go away, things may even get worse.
Not Sure What To Do Next?
If you are not sure what to do next or if you are on the right course?
Speak to reception or book an appointment
with EASA on 01274 433 677
On this website you can find out more about mental health, different problems that people experience and where to access help and support. The service directory lists over
two hundred services, mostly within the Bradford and Airedale District, which
may be able to help.
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