Welcome to College

Creating opportunities for Edinburgh and the Contents Message Why Choose ?...... 2

from the Principal Essential Information...... 10

Qualifications Explained....12 I would like to extend a personal welcome to you as you consider studying with us at Edinburgh College.

As one of the UK’s largest regional colleges, we have over 26,000 student enrolments. As well as Ways of Attending...... 14 students who live and work in the local area, we are delighted to welcome students from around 100 different countries who study with us in Edinburgh and . Our students are at the heart of everything we do and our aim is to provide you with an excellent experience.

Progression Routes...... 15 Students are well represented at all levels of decision making across the college. We have an active Students’ Association, representing the student voice and organising a wide range of events for the student community. How to Apply...... 16 The college plays a leading role in educating and supporting the workforce of the future, with a continuing commitment to high academic standards and excellence in learning and teaching. We offer more than 900 courses ranging from access and short courses to HNC, HND, degree level and Our Facilities...... 18 continuing professional development on a full and part time basis.

Our academic centres have skilled, knowledgeable staff who combine expertise in specialist areas Advice and Support...... 20 to give our students the very best educational experience. The exciting and progressive curriculum has been designed to meet the needs of industry, providing a wide variety of vibrant, vocational and academic courses with flexible learning opportunities to suit all learning needs.

Student Services...... 21 We have established relationships with employers and universities to create a connected community that provides you with strong links into work or higher level study. We are committed to ensuring our students are prepared for a successful career through work placements, internships and connections with a wide range of industries. Student Support...... 22 What’s more, many of our lecturers are industry professionals so you will benefit from expert teaching that is up to date, relevant and engaging to ensure you have the best possible Fees and Funding...... 23 opportunities for an exciting and rewarding future.

I hope you will decide to join us at Edinburgh College and I look forward to welcoming you soon.

Living in Edinburgh...... 24

Edinburgh College Students’ Association...... 26

Mandy Exley Celebrate Principal Your Success...... 28

Keep in Touch...... 28

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion...... 29

Our Campuses...... 29 A International Prospectus | [email protected]

Why Choose Edinburgh College?

Best Opportunities for Learning

As you would expect from one of the leading colleges in the UK, each of our four campuses boasts fantastic learning facilities. You’ll find comprehensive libraries and wireless internet access throughout and the college’s virtual learning resource centre gives you access to course materials, additional reading and study support online.

Whatever course you choose, you’ll be studying under the guidance of expert tutors utilising industry- leading equipment and resources. Here are just a few of the highlights that make Edinburgh College a great choice for further study.

Last year 94% of our graduates were in employment or further study within six months of graduating.

Scotland’s First Solar Meadow Teaching Centre

Our solar meadow, with more than 2,500 photovoltaic panels, is the first teaching project of its kind in and will help to provide the next generation of engineers to develop essential skills in the growing renewables sector.

The site works effectively as an outdoor classroom, allowing students to analyse the interaction between biodiversity and solar technology, as well as monitoring and assessing the operation and performance of the solar panels.

2 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] OPITO Apprentice of the Making Waves Year - Five Years in a Row in Renewables Training

We are one of only three approved UK The MacTaggart Scott Hydraulics, Pneumatics and OPITO (Offshore Petroleum Industry Training PLC Laboratory opened at our Midlothian Campus Organisation) Training Centres in the UK. in 2013. This partnership between the college Utilising our oil production platform simulator, and engineering firm MacTaggart Scott provides a we have successfully trained thousands of professional training facility that offers the perfect apprentices for the oil and gas industry with learning environment to develop engineering skills in outstanding results. hydraulics and pneumatics.

Edinburgh College students have picked up the The next phase of equipment to be installed is prestigious OPITO Apprentice of the Year award planned to include wave and tidal simulators, which for the fifth consecutive year. John Paterson won will recreate North Sea conditions, suitable for OPITO’s top apprentice award in 2013, following testing wave and tidal technology in the confines of Scott Stage in 2012, Fergus Stewart in 2011, Sarah a laboratory. Access to this technology will allow our Coull in 2010 who was the first woman ever to win students to develop crucial skills in wave and tidal the prestigious title and Mark Wigginton in 2009. energy.

“I am amazed at how much I have learned On Track for already and the excellent support and guidance First Class Training that I have received We have developed one of the best highways, throughout. It’s definitely and railway track training sites given me the best training in Scotland. More than 70% of our City & Guilds that I could have hoped Railway and Engineering graduates have been for so early in my career.” successfully placed with railway agencies into John Paterson employment. WorldSkills UK Finalists

Carpentry student, Oliver At the Forefront Beatson and Electrical of Electrical Technology Installation Apprentice, Alexander Gardiner, Our electric vehicle research project, in partnership both won the Highly with SEStran, Edinburgh Napier University and Commended Award in Mitsubishi is the largest scheme of its kind in Scotland. their categories and went Ground breaking research into the college fleet of on to achieve 2nd place electric cars has been crucial in showing the reduction in the 2013 WorldSkills in emissions and long term motoring costs. Competition.

Thirty new public electric vehicle charging points “If I didn’t have the support have been installed from the North Highlands to from the lecturers at the Borders and to to help ensure that Edinburgh College I would not be here at this stage.” commuters are Oliver Beatson never more than 50 miles from a charging post. The Scotland’s Best Students’ aim is to make electric vehicles Association a realistic option Edinburgh College Students’ for travelling and a Students’ Association was named Student genuine alternative Association Association of the Year at the 2014 on the . Edinburgh College NUS Scotland Awards.

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 3 One of the Most Respected Training Providers in the Performing Arts

The Performing Arts Studio Scotland (PASS) at Edinburgh College is one of Scotland’s most respected training providers in the performing arts specialising in acting, dance, make-up artistry, technical theatre and theatre costume.

With double BAFTA winner Emma Thompson as Patron, we nurture the talents of our students who are taught by some of the best educators in their field. Our dynamic and engaging learning environments ensure our students receive the best and most up to date training.

Former PASS students include:

PASS is an exciting, high octane, cutting-edge Karen Gillan Shane O’Meara Pamela Jean (Doctor Who) (Waterloo ) (Professional dancer, centre which will worked on set with Lady Gaga) attract much of the wealth of talent Our BA Dance students were featured in the in Scotland and closing sequence of Sunshine on beyond.

Emma Thompson, Patron

4 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Setting the Scene for Success Award Winning Student’s Our CRE:8 centre offers state-of-the-art facilities for Broadcast Media students. This includes a Designs hits the High Street fully equipped TV studio with green Chroma key and infinity curve, AVID editing suites, a 96 seat An Edinburgh College student’s design range has auditorium for screenings, professional sound been launched in high street stores across the UK recording studios with editing suites and the latest by the well known accessories brand Goji. Twenty digital audio facilities. one-year-old Emil Bloom, who is studying HND Graphic Design, initially designed the accessories for Goji as part of a competition run by the Young Creative Network (YCN) Student Awards, a BAFTA for Former Student network that showcases the best graphic design student work from all around the world. Former TV student, Garry Fraser, won the Scottish Goji, which developed the Tinchy Stryder Newcomer BAFTA in headphones brand, was in search of a new look for filmmaking in 2013 and the launch of its new accessories range. The Goji is currently our artist in representatives were so impressed with Emil’s entry residence. He now regularly that it put the range into production immediately. works alongside BBC The accessories range, Goji Gorilla Movement, can and Channel 4 Creative now be purchased at Currys and PC World across Directors. the UK and online.

One current student and Edinburgh College graphic design students swept three graduates were also the board at the YCN Awards, picking up more shortlisted in the 2014 accolades than any other Scottish college. Scottish BAFTAs. “We realise how important it is to encourage our students to apply for competitions such as the YCN Awards to develop their creativity beyond their everyday work in the

classroom.” Helena Good, Edinburgh College Lecturer

Own Record Label is a Musical Feast

Computing Student Wins WorldSkills Gold Award For the second year in a row Edinburgh College has won a WorldSkills gold award for computing. HND Computer Networking and Internet Technology Student, Lorenz de Wilde, won the Microsoft Network Administrator Advanced category. HND networking Edinburgh College has launched its own record student, Jiri Kores, also won the gold award in the label and radio station. Our sound recording studios previous year. are equipped with the most up to date technology including ground breaking audio consoles from “My lecturer encouraged me to go for the competition and Solid Stage Logic (SSL) and Toft Audio – used by the I’m pleased to have been given the opportunity to take part world’s top sound producers. in such a huge event”. Lorenz de Wilde

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 5 Supporting Entrepreneurial Talent

The Creative Exchange is a vibrant new hub for creative entrepreneurs that has been developed in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council. The joint initiative is specifically targeted at the creative industries and combines a world class workspace with state-of the-art facilities, including ultra-fast broadband and digital technology.

A range of business support services is available from start-up advice to mentoring, as well as help to secure investment. Six Edinburgh College students are funded each year to take up entrepreneurial residency at the Creative Exchange to invest in the development of new and emerging talent.

6 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Photography Broadening Horizons

Students Snap up Awards A number of Edinburgh College students took part in projects for the ’s Leonardo da Our outstanding photography facilities are Vinci Scheme. This project supports UK vocational fully equipped with a drive-in studio with white education and training organisations, staff and infinity coving, unique in photography courses in students to improve training, skills and employability. Scotland, and professional darkrooms that offer the opportunity to develop and process your own prints. The students undertook work in The results speak for themselves - 2013 was an Finland, Denmark exciting and rewarding year for our students: and France to broaden their range National British Institute of Professional of experience. Photography (BIPP) Awards in London All five categories were won by two Edinburgh College Students:

Angel Goday: • Student Photographer of the Year Award: Single Image Category Visual Communications Stars • Student Photographer of the Year Award: Commercial Category 2013 proved to be a year of great success for Lee Howell: Visual Communications • College Portfolio Award students, with one • People and Portraiture Category student winning a top • Visual Arts Category prize at the Marketing Society Star Awards and another two named as finalists in the prestigious design awards.

Creative Industries student, Jonathan Walton, won Creative Student of the Year. The Marketing Society Star Awards set standards of excellence across all BIPP Scottish Regional Awards aspects of marketing. 15 students won a total of 21 category awards and merits including:

Overall Winner: Linda MacPherson Veterinary Nursing Results Photojournalism Category: Lee Howell Above National Average

Towergate Fine Art Competition An Edinburgh College student achieved the highest Gold Award and Certificate of Merit: Lee Howell Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons exam result in

the UK. The One to Watch by the Lisa Pritchard Agency (LPA)* Kirsten Gilroy achieved 100% in all Outstanding Portrait Submissions 12 tasks that she had to undertake in

her final Royal College of Veterinary First Place: Jim Yorkston Surgeons practical exam. Runner Up: Lee Howell

*The Lisa Pritchard Agency is one of the most prominent artist Our veterinary nursing exam results management and photo shoot production agencies in the UK. are also consistently above the national average.

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 7 Training Restaurants Our two fully operational training restaurants, eh15 and The Apprentice, are open to the public, providing our students with essential commercial work experience.

Hot Awards for Hospitality Students

Our hospitality students were recognised for their exceptional skills in the kitchen at the annual ScotHot Awards 2013, winning several gold awards in the Modern Junior Skills Challenge.

A further group of students won silver and bronze awards across a range of categories.

The ScotHot Awards celebrate and recognise the next generation of hospitality, tourism and catering professionals.

It’s a great achievement for us to get this award and can only be good for job prospects in the future to say we have been part of this award-winning team. Richard Lewis, Hospitality Student

8 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Wella Centre of Excellence Beauty Students Edinburgh College is the second Win WorldSkills Awards college in Scotland to be recognised as a Wella Centre of Excellence. Our beauty students picked up an impressive collection of awards in the 2013 WorldSkills Awards, securing The accolade reflects the top-class facilities two first places, three second places and one third and training at the college. It also provides place across the Aromatherapy and Beauty Therapy opportunities for our students to take part in categories. Maria-Dolores Lopez Fernandez from the national competitions and schemes run by Wella. Hairdressing, Beauty and Complementary Therapies Team was given a Highly Commended award in the Aromatherapy Open Competition for her outstanding skills.

My love for aromatherapy and the fabulous teaching I experienced at Edinburgh College has given me the determination to do this for the rest of my life. Maria-Dolores Lopez Fernandez

Hairdressing student Karla Robertson was placed second in the 2014 UK Association of Hairdressers and Therapists competition with her amazing creation for the Fantasy Style category.

Edinburgh College wins Times Education Supplement Further Education Award

Edinburgh College won the University HE Access Widening Participation Go For Goal category for its part in the East Hospitality and Tourism Academy, We have formed partnerships with Hibernian a partnership between the college, Community Foundation, Big Hearts Community Queen Margaret University (QMU) and Trust and The Prince’s Trust to deliver employment Council. programmes that provide young people aged 16 and over with opportunities to gain valuable skills, The college was one of only two Scottish winners qualifications and experience to get started on a at the awards. The Academy, which was launched in career path or college course. 2012, impressed the judges for the way it smooths the transition between school, college and university. Funded by Skills Development Scotland, the programme includes an employment qualification, Grammar pupil, Lauren Cain, is just early touches coaching qualification, volunteering one of the Academy’s success stories. Over the last opportunities and one week’s work placement. year she has addressed 100 guests at the Academy’s reception in the , spent time working at Novotel, competed in the national ScotHot hospitality championships, and taken classes at both Edinburgh College and QMU.

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 9 Edinburgh College Business School Our newly-formed Business School offers an extensive range of qualifications from entry level through to Essential postgraduate level in Business, Finance and related Management disciplines. Information We also provide access to high quality part-time learning programmes in management disciplines, accredited by leading professional institutes. You can undertake a range of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) qualifications at the college, essential for today’s challenging business environment.

We offer programmes delivered flexibly, adopting a Coming to College business focused approach. Our accreditation with Choosing to continue your education is a big decision. In professional institutes such as CMI, CIPD, ILM, ACCA, this section you will find a range of essential information AAT and CIM ensures that the Business School meets that will help you make an informed choice, including the your professional development needs. qualifications we offer, our academic centres, ways to study and advice on funding. Bespoke training programmes provide professional development opportunities for employees at all Whichever course you choose, you will find that levels. These programmes may be accredited or non- Edinburgh College is a vibrant, friendly, welcoming place accredited. with excellent resources, facilities and opportunities for you. • BUSINESS AND FINANCE

Institute of and Building Crafts The creation of the Institute of Construction and Building Crafts has given Edinburgh College the Academic Centres opportunity to approach the education of construction students in a more integrated way. Progression is key to the development of the Institute as we build on already Edinburgh College offers a range of established articulation routes and partnerships. We aim programmes across eight academic centres: to be the training provider of choice in Edinburgh and the Lothians for the construction and built environment sector.

Centre for Creative Industries The Institute will meet the regional outcomes and demands of the core training providers including the Scotland’s creativity is renowned worldwide. Construction Skills Training Board (CITB), BEST, SNIPEF, Scottish art, film, fashion, music and literature are Historic Scotland and local authorities by providing both all internationally recognised, as is its design, IT and vocational and academic progression routes that give computer gaming industries. our students opportunities at all levels to move on to employment or university. Edinburgh College offers some of the UK’s most exciting and creative courses and has established links with colleges and universities across Europe offering exciting • BUILT ENVIRONMENT, SECURITY AND work opportunities and exchanges abroad. PLUMBING • ART AND DESIGN • , JOINERY, PAINTING AND DECORATING • BROADCAST MEDIA AND PHOTOGRAPHY • TROWEL TRADES AND ALLIED SKILLS • COMPUTING • MUSIC AND SOUND PRODUCTION • PERFORMING ARTS

10 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Engineering + International Centre Edinburgh College delivers an exceptional portfolio Edinburgh College has one of the largest and most of further and higher engineering courses, as well as established International centres in Scotland, focusing offering bespoke training for professionals. on English language teaching. Our English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme teaches English By working closely with industry we are able to to people whose first language is not English so that they ensure that you develop the skills that employers and can live, work and study in the UK. industry leaders are looking for. Many of our lecturers are industry professionals, which will give you the You can study ESOL at our campuses or at one of our competitive advantage of learning from people with community venues. We also offer an English Language years of experience in their field. Summer School in July and August.

• • COLLEGE-BASED ESOL AND TEACHER • ENGINEERING TRAINING • SCIENCE • College Community Our community team deliver a programme of courses both within our four main campuses and at a number Centre for Health, Wellbeing of community venues. We work in partnership with the and Social Sciences community, schools, local authorities, employers and local agencies to ensure access for under-represented Health, Wellbeing and Social Sciences is our largest groups in our communities. curriculum area. Work placements play a significant part in the provision of the quality learning and • ACCESS AND CONTINUING EDUCATION teaching experiences within this centre and we have established close partnerships with industry, • COMMUNITY-BASED ESOL universities, the NHS and local authorities. • COMMUNITY-BASED LITERACIES • COMMUNITY OUTREACH We have over 200 dedicated staff, many of whom have • SCHOOLS AND YOUNG PEOPLE industry experience to provide our students with the • EMPLOYABILITY TRAINING (WEACT) most relevant and up-to-date knowledge and skills.

• CHILDHOOD PRACTICE • HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE To find out more about a specific area, download one • HEALTH AND VETERINARY PROFESSIONS of our course area booklets at: • SOCIAL SCIENCES edinburghcollege.ac.uk/prospectus • SPORT AND FITNESS • ENGLISH, COMMUNICATION AND HIGHERS

Tourism and Hospitality Academy The hospitality industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK and the skills you learn here are readily transferable; a career in hospitality can be the key to discovering new countries and people.

Edinburgh College offers an innovative and exciting programme of courses, designed to put you at the forefront of this dynamic industry.

• TRAVEL, AND TOURISM • MODERN LANGUAGES • HOSPITALITY AND PROFESSIONAL COOKERY • RETAIL AND EVENTS • HAIR, BEAUTY AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 11 Qualifications National Qualification Group Awards (NQGA) is the term which encompasses National Certificates (NCs) and National Progression Awards (NPAs). Explained National Certificates (NCs) are designed to prepare you for employment, career development or progression to more advanced study at HNC/ HND level.

National Progression Awards (NPAs) are also Edinburgh College offers a range of nationally and designed to help you reach your goals and internationally recognised courses across a wide are available in a variety of sectors including variety of subjects. The course you choose will depend construction and childcare. They also link to on your current qualifications, experience and career National Occupational Standards, which are the aspirations. basis of SVQs.

The majority of qualifications we offer are from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). These courses are designed to prepare you for further study Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) recognise or to progress directly to employment. your ability to do a specific job. They’re designed in consultation with employers and are based on All SQA units and qualifications relate to a level in the national standards set directly by representatives Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). from industry, commerce and education to enhance The SCQF allows you to understand the full range of your job prospects. Scottish qualifications and how they relate to each other. See the framework on the page opposite or visit Degree Programmes scqf.org.uk for details. Edinburgh College offers a number of degree programmes in partnership with universities including Edinburgh Napier University, Heriot-Watt University and Queen Margaret University. Higher National (HN) Qualifications are offered as one-year Higher National Certificates (HNC) and We also offer Associate Student Degree Programmes two-year Higher National Diplomas (HND). Most which guarantee you a place at one of our partner HNs are work-related and designed to meet the universities on completion of selected HNC/D needs of employers and can be the equivalent to the courses. first two years of a university degree programme. Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) A one-year SWAP Access Programme can lead to a guaranteed place on a HN or degree course at college or university. SWAP programmes are designed National Qualifications (NQs) cover a broad range of specifically for adults who do not have the required subjects to suit your skills and interests. At Edinburgh entry qualifications for university and have been out College we offer these courses at various levels. NQs of full-time education for three years or more. will prepare you for entry to HNC/HND programmes Visit scottishwideraccess.org for further information. and can cover training related to employment. Professional Qualifications Advanced Highers, Highers and Intermediates Edinburgh College offers a range of qualifications are designed to prepare you for HN or Degree certificated by professional and other awarding courses. bodies designed to help you develop and progress in your career. These include BTEC, City & Guilds, VTCT, Professional Development Awards (PDAs) are ideal AVID Pro Tools, CMI, Cisco and ILM. if you’re already in a career or vocation and wish to broaden your knowledge and skills. PDA qualifications Find out more about the qualifications we offer on our can be at different levels from NC to HN and may website. include work-based units.

12 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Edinburgh College

Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) HIGHER NATIONAL AND SQA QUALIFICATIONS DEGREE QUALIFICATIONS

SCQF | 1960’s 1970’s 1980’s 1990’s 2000’s 2010’s 2014/15 LEVEL www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk SCQF 12 Doctorate Degrees

Masters Degrees SCQF 11 Postgraduate Diplomas

SCQF 10 Bachelors Degree with Honours

SCQF 9 Bachelors/Ordinary Degree

2nd Year of Degree Programme SCQF 8 Higher National Diploma 1st Year of Degree Programme SCQF 7 Higher National Certificates

SCQF 6 Certificate of Sixth Year Studies (CSYS) Advanced Higher Advanced Higher

SCQF 5 Higher Higher

SCQF 4 Standard Grade Credit National 5 Intermediate 2 SCQF 3 Ordinary Grade Standard Grade General National 4 Intermediate 1

Standard Grade Foundation National 3 Access 3 13 Ways of Attending

You can attend college through various modes Schools/College Partnership of attendance, depending on your learning We have a programme for secondary school pupils requirements. that is designed to enhance the curriculum and assist you in your transition from school to full-time further education. The Schools/College Partnership team can Full-Time offer a range of courses which can be added into your existing school timetable. Full-time study of our further education courses, which include National Qualifications such as Highers, National Certificates and Scottish Vocational Training and Development Qualifications (SVQs) and other non-advanced We offer a wide range of training and development courses, generally requires you to attend college programmes which are aligned with industry and approximately 3.5 days per week for a year. professional institute standards. Our courses offer a range of qualifications and delivery modes, enabling Full-time study of Higher National Certificate and us to support both individual and organisational Diploma (HNC/D) courses requires you to attend requirements with a tailored provision. Our college approximately 3 days a week. accreditation with professional institutes ensures that we can meet your training and development needs. Part-Time Our part-time courses are designed to fit around your Modern life, with duration and attendance varying between The college is approved by Skills Development each course. We offer a range of part-time advanced, Scotland (SDS) to offer the Modern Apprenticeship non-advanced and leisure courses. Scheme to encourage employers to train young people towards a recognised workplace qualification. Our vocational areas of delivery include Automotive, Open Learning Creative Industries, Engineering and Hospitality and We have a range of flexible learning courses which Tourism. you can study at home or at one of our campuses. You can start a course any time and study at a pace which For more information call 0131 535 4616. suits you. A tutor will provide regular guidance and support. Introductory Courses We deliver a range of introductory courses in many Work-based Learning subject areas across the college. These work in Work-based learning includes day-release and block- conjunction with our mainstream curriculum and release courses which allow you to develop your skills offer you the opportunity to start on a programme of and career prospects while continuing to remain in progressive study at a level that suits you. employment. The courses often have no formal entry requirements Evening and Leisure and are a great way to prepare for college life. We offer a wide range of evening courses including languages, arts, Higher qualifications and introductory skills in subjects such as counselling.

14 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Progression Routes

Our courses have been designed to make sure you Articulation Routes progress towards your goals; whether you’re looking For many of our HN courses we have an agreement to go straight into employment, enhance your career with universities that on completion of a specific options, or move on to university or further training. course, students can progress directly to advanced entry on a specific degree programme. We also have many informal agreements that can provide entry to Continuing at College an appropriate year of a degree programme at various If you’re planning to continue your studies at college universities. Ask at your interview about articulation - whether with Edinburgh College or elsewhere – we opportunities from your chosen course. offer advice about courses, financial support and help with applications. The Open University Going to University Edinburgh College is working with The Open Thanks to our excellent links and relationships with University (OU) in Scotland to create flexible universities, many courses allow you to progress opportunities for students who wish to progress from directly from the college to the first, second or even their Higher National study to a degree. third year of a degree programme. The OU’s BA/BSc (Open) degree allows students to Before choosing a course, we recommend you talk choose from a wide range of OU modules tailored to our advisors about your goals and the higher to their personal and vocational needs. This allows education opportunities available to you. We’ll be students to either build on the subject areas studied able to provide you with all the latest information in college, or provides the flexibility to develop skills on universities, articulation routes and entry and knowledge in other subject areas. requirements. We’ll also advise you on how to apply and what funding options are available. Find out more information about OU study at: openuniversity.co.uk/collegeroutes

Associate Student Degree Progression We offer a number of Associate Student Degree Employment places to support your development. These exciting With our focus on your employability, we provide all opportunities guarantee you a place at one of our the support you need when looking for a job upon partner universities through our links with the completion of your studies. University of , Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh Napier University and Queen Margaret We work in partnership with Skills Development University. Scotland to help you at all stages with professional, impartial careers advice. Whether you know what you We currently offer eight Associate Student Degree want to do, or simply want to discuss your options, programmes in engineering, computing, tourism our advice and guidance team can also help you to and hospitality. If you’re selected for the Associate organise your job search and prepare your CV. Student Degree programme, you’ll begin with HNC or HND level courses delivered at Edinburgh College, If you have any questions about moving on after your before progressing to the 3rd year of study at studies, call us on 0131 660 1010 university to complete your degree. or email [email protected].

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 15 How to Apply

1. Find the right 2. Apply online course for you

To make the process as simple We know that deciding which as possible, you can apply for course to study can be a difficult most of our courses online. Once decision. So, before making a you’ve chosen a course you’d like decision you can browse our to study, it’s as simple as finding courses online. This will allow you the course entry on the college to learn about entry requirements website and clicking on the “Apply and progression routes and Now” button. discover more about the course content. If you’ve never applied online before, we ask you to register You can also book an appointment some details needed to process with our Course Information your application, including your Team. We’re here to discuss your name, date of birth, valid email course choice and answer any address as well as creating a questions you may have about password. studying at Edinburgh College. When you apply, please take time To make an appointment please to fill out the form as accurately call 0131 660 1010. and fully as possible. You don’t have to complete the application all at once and can return to it later using your log in details.

If you require support in completing your course application form, or wish to request alternative formats (e.g. large print), please contact: [email protected] or call 0131 660 1010.

16 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] 3. Acknowledgement 4. Invitation to 5. Place offered of application interview

After being successful at Once you’ve submitted your For most of our courses you’ll be interview, you’ll be given either application you’ll receive an invited to attend an interview an unconditional or conditional acknowledgement by email. This before an offer is made. For some offer. A conditional offer will contain details of the course courses you may also be asked means you must obtain further you applied for, how to monitor to attend an audition or bring a qualifications or meet certain the progress of your application portfolio of work. criteria before you are accepted. and contact details if you have any An unconditional offer means questions or queries. that you have been accepted on to the course and are guaranteed a place. You must remember to accept your offer to guarantee your place.

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 17 Our Facilities

Edinburgh College boasts an excellent range of Sports Facilities facilities across all four of our campuses. Students can take advantage of the excellent sporting facilities across our campuses – both as a study Learning Resources resource and as a gym member, receiving discounted rates on all gym memberships. We have on-site libraries and resource centres across our campuses, so you’ll always have access to a PC The Club at Milton Road holds a fully-equipped gym and place to study while you’re at the college. with Precor cardio and resistance machines, designed to allow you to achieve your personal fitness goals, You will have instant access to Moodle – the virtual as well as a free weights section allowing you to build learning environment for Edinburgh College. This can strength and muscle tone. Members can also take be accessed in college, at home, or anywhere with advantage of regular programming sessions from one Internet access. of the fully qualified and motivational instructors. Your own student email account can be accessed through Moodle. Having a student email account can also act as proof that you are at an academic Spa, Hair and Beauty Facilities institution and therefore entitled to substantially Edinburgh College is home to three hair and beauty discounted academic prices that are available for training salons, all of which offer the latest in industry many software packages. innovations, including luxury spa therapies and state- of-the-art hair treatments and styles.

Student Spaces This venture opens up an excellent opportunity for There are several spaces available to students across everyone to benefit from these facilities, and through all of our campuses that can be used to study, relax or sponsorship from Wella, Elemis and Dermalogica, our meet with friends. There is also a quiet room in each students offer a discounted service in spa and salon campus set aside for meditation and prayer for people experiences. of all faiths and none.

Each campus also has various outside spaces which Waterfront Nursery can be utilised in the warmer weather and study The Waterfront Nursery at our Granton campus rooms are also available for individual or group use. provides high quality childcare for children from 3 months to 5 years old. The nursery opened with a new purpose-built facility in 2006 and facilities include: 2 Food and Drink baby rooms, a tweenie & toddler room, a junior room, Ante-Pre and Pre-school rooms and an impressive There are several areas to eat and drink at each of outdoor play area with additional activity areas. our campuses, from college shops to Costa Coffee. Whether you want to grab a snack from the shop or have a hot meal at lunch-time, there are facilities to suit your needs. Edinburgh College also has two training restaurants available for reservations: The Apprentice at Granton and eh15 at Milton Road.

18 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Accommodation To apply for a place at Granton Campus, please fill out Living on campus is the ideal way to make new friends the online application form at: and get the full student experience. Edinburgh crm-students.com/crm-accommodation/edinburgh. College is proud to offer some of the best student living available in Edinburgh. Each campus offers a safe and comfortable environment with meal options, no utility bills and The college maintains a purpose-built residential excellent transport links to the four campuses. complex at Milton Road, available to rent once Student residents also have a limited membership to an application form has been completed. This can the Club Gym and Spa. be downloaded from the college’s Club website, theclubedinburgh.com/student-accommodation.

Students can also apply for residences at Granton Campus, provided through CRM Students.

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 19 Advice and Support

At Edinburgh College our friendly and experienced staff are here to give you the confidence and knowledge to develop and succeed in your chosen career.

Our Student Advice and Support Teams can help you with all aspects of life at Edinburgh College. You can take advantage of many of our services before you come to college, so please contact us at any time for further information.

20 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Student Services

Our Student Services teams are dedicated to Course Information supporting students from enquiry to progression and moving on. Going to college is a big decision. There may be lots of questions you want to ask. Our College Information You can call our Student Services Team on team can help with information about courses, travel 0131 660 1010, email [email protected] to college, funding options and support for your or drop in to one of our offices on the ground floor of learning. We can point you in the right direction for each campus to get some face to face advice. further advice and guidance depending on your own circumstances. We can tell you about life as a student at Edinburgh College, show you around your chosen Student Advice and Guidance campus and help you make your course application.

Whether it’s help with accommodation, progression and pre-exit advice, seeking employment or Financial Support assistance with applying for additional funding our Student Advice and Guidance Team are here to help. Our Student Funding Team will award you with the most appropriate levels of Bursary, EMA and We want all our students to realise their full potential Childcare funding. To make this possible, our team will by moving onto the right career or course. We provide make sure you’ve provided all the evidence required. a number of resources to guide you through this process including a Skills Development Scotland We’ll give you an indicative offer of funding before Careers Adviser who will advise you on all aspects of you start learning, so you can plan ahead and budget your career. your finances to make everything more manageable. Student Funding staff are available daily to answer As an Edinburgh College student you will have any questions, and help you with the application access to Jobzone on Moodle. This is our student process. employment service where you will find part-time vacancies and advice on job seeking, CVs, interviews In addition, if you have any concerns about whether and more. you can afford to come to college, please get in touch. We will be happy to help you investigate sources of funding and work through a budget plan.

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 21 Student Support

Our Student Support Team is here to talk through any support you may need to get started and to stay on Learning track. We all need support at some time so it’s always Development Tutors (LDT) best to ask. Each person studying on a full time further education If you have specific support needs and wish to discuss and HNC level course with us has a dedicated LDT to how this may affect your plans to study, the Student ensure that you achieve your ambitions. Support Team can help. To make sure you have a smooth transition into college life, we’ll discuss Your LDT will provide guidance and advice throughout everything before you make your application and your time at the college while supporting your again at interview and enrolment. academic and personal progress through tutorials and drop-in sessions. You may have just left school and are studying independently for the first time. Perhaps you have been in employment or bringing up a family and are returning to education after some time away. Whatever your background, our Student Support English Language Support Team are here to help you make a success of your studies. We can help you become more confident If English is not your first language, you may want with skills such as planning projects, organising your some extra support with your course work while at time, reading efficiently, giving presentations, writing college. Our English Language Support Team will: reports and essays, revision techniques, exam skills, memory skills and using the library. • Assess your language level before you start your course We also understand that learning can sometimes • Help you plan and prepare for oral and written be more challenging as a result of a specific learning assignments difficulty or a disability that requires specialist • Offer ways to improve your English, for example: support. We can provide confidential support and spelling, pronunciation, grammar, using specialist guidance for students who have a specific learning vocabulary difficulty such as dyslexia or dyspraxia, or who • Improve your English through use of Computer have a sensory impairment, physical disability, Assisted Language Learning (CALL) facilities health problem, mental health problem or social or • Help with any special examination arrangements emotional difficulties. We are able to assist if you which may be available to you qualify for the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA), including discussing supportive technology. Formal For more information on English Language Support assessments for the DSA are carried out in the call: 0131 344 7338 college.

22 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] When you’re considering starting college, it’s Fees important to think about funding and how you’ll pay for some of the costs that come with being a student. Funding can vary depending on the level of your course and whether you study full- or part-time, with and Funding the funding available for HNC or HND courses being very different from bursary and EMA funding.

We understand the amount of information can be overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to make the process simple and easy to understand. Our advisers Childcare Funding will discuss your individual circumstances, helping you with a financial health check. This allows us to offer You may be able to claim financial help towards the you budgeting advice, as well as explaining how to cost of registered childcare throughout your studies. apply for funds. This applies if you’re studying either full-time or part- time on one of the following types of course:

For more information about how to fund your course • Further Education level (National Certificates, and what you may be entitled to while studying at the BTEC Diplomas, City & Guilds, SVQ’s) college, please refer to our Edinburgh College Funding • Higher Education level (HNC/D and Degree) Information booklet. If you’re studying an HN or degree-level course, you’ll We encourage you to make an appointment to visit need to show that you’ve taken full entitlement from the college and speak with one of our advisers. They’ll the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) explain the funds available for your studies, as well as before we can consider your application. We’ll provide helping you with the application process. all the help and advice you need when you apply.

The Waterfront Nursery at Granton campus provides high quality childcare for children from the age of 3 months to 5 years old.

Some of the funds you may For more information about childcare visit the college website or call 0131 669 4400 be able to apply for include: or email [email protected].

Bursary for Further Education (National Certificates, BTEC Diplomas, City & Guilds, SVQs)

Scottish Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) for Higher Education (HNC, HND and Degree)

Student Loans information for Higher Education (HNC, HND and Degree)

Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) for Higher Education (HNC, HND, and Degree)

Assistance with registered childcare costs (All course levels)

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 23 Living in Edinburgh

Whether you’re already local to the area or coming from further afield, there will always be something for you to see and do as a student studying in Edinburgh, including restaurants, sights, shopping and nightlife.

Edinburgh is spectacular, vibrant and historical; it is regarded as one of the most beautiful and friendly cities in the world. Winner of the World Travel Awards, Leading European Destination 2012, Edinburgh has something for everyone – stunning , lots of green space, state-of-the-art sports facilities, world famous museums, galleries, theatres and a lively social scene.

As the ‘City of Festivals’, Edinburgh has an all-year- round vibrancy - hosting international film, literature and music festivals, as well as the world’s largest arts and dance festival in August, attracting tens of thousands of people from around the world and doubling the city’s population in the process.

For students looking for some peace and quiet, a short train journey will take you to some of the most stunning scenery in the world.

24 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 25 Edinburgh College Students’ Association

As soon as you enrol at Edinburgh College, you’re If you have a problem with any aspect of college life automatically a member of Edinburgh College such as funding, bursaries, academic problems or Students’ Association (ECSA) - the biggest and best- international issues, we’re here to help. resourced college Students’ Association in Scotland and recognised as the Student Association of the year We have offices at each campus, so we’re accessible by NUS in 2014. wherever you study. The team is made up of four Sabbatical Officers – students who have been elected We’ll make sure your voice is heard through your to work full-time for one year. The Sabbatical Officers Student Representative Council, allowing you to are supported by a team of three Student Liaison put your ideas across to the College Management Officers, and we have one Regional President who and Board of Management. This means you can works across the whole college. make a real difference as a student. Your elected representatives are involved in all staff, management We recognise that Edinburgh College has a diverse and board structures to make sure we represent you population. Liberation groups are therefore here to at every level. ensure that all groups are properly represented. We have Liberation Officers on the Executive Committee We’ll also give you helpful advice about joining or of every campus – they are LGBT Officer and LGBT starting up clubs and societies, getting involved with Officer (Women’s Space), Black and Minority Ethnic social events, and how to be more involved in student Officer, Women’s Officer and Disabled Students life - all great ways to get the most out of your time at Officer. Edinburgh College. Find out more on our website ecsaonline.co.uk or contact us on [email protected] Societies

When you become a student at Edinburgh College, you might want to start thinking about NUS Extra Card what clubs and societies you’d like to join. With so many to choose from there’s bound to be You can get discounts at many bars, restaurants and something that sparks your interest: shops throughout Edinburgh when you become a student at Edinburgh College. • Animé Club • Basketball Club Applying for your NUS Extra card is simple - just • Drama Society complete the online form at cards.nusextra.co.uk • Film Club • Gaming Society • Hockey Club • Law Society • Pagan Society • Volleyball Club

Visit the ECSA website to find out more about our clubs and societies.

26 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] We’ll make sure your voice is heard through your Student Representative Council, allowing you Students’ to put your ideas across to the College Board of Association Management. Edinburgh College

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 27 Celebrate Your Success

We are proud to celebrate the achievements and successes of our students.

We celebrate the success of our HNC, HND, Advance Diploma and Degree students at the College Graduation Ceremony in September. We also host an annual Awards Ceremony which recognises the achievements of all our students. These ceremonies are a proud occasion for our students, their families, friends and all staff at Edinburgh College.

Our students regularly win national awards, including many sports, photography, audio visual and computing students. Keep in Touch

If you are thinking of coming to Edinburgh College for the first time or have just completed your studies, we would like you to keep in touch.

Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/EdinburghCollege

Follow us on Twitter @EdinburghColl

Alternatively you can contact us on Milton Road [email protected] or call 0131 669 4400. Granton

Alumni Once you’ve finished your course and it’s time to move on to the next stage of your career or study journey, you can keep in touch with Edinburgh College through our alumni group for former students.

We run a programme of events and networking sessions with industry to help former students develop good contacts in their chosen field, and we’re always delighted for you to come back and share your experience with a current class.

28 Welcome to Edinburgh College | [email protected] Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Edinburgh College is committed to equality of opportunity and to a culture that respects difference. We welcome and support all students irrespective of age, disability, gender re-assignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We have also been awarded the Buttle UK Quality Mark, in recognition of our commitment to young people in and leaving care. Our Campuses

We have four main campuses:

Granton Campus 350 West Granton Road Edinburgh EH5 1QE

Midlothian Campus Sighthill 46 Dalhousie Road Midlothian EH22 3FR

Milton Road Campus 24 Milton Road East Edinburgh EH15 2PP

Sighthill Campus Bankhead Avenue Edinburgh EH11 4DE

Edinburgh College | www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk 29A 0131 660 1010 edinburghcollege.ac.uk

Our course portfolio may be subject to alteration. For information or to speak to an advisor call 0131 660 1010

Edinburgh College is a charity registered in Scotland Charity Number SC021213

If you require this brochure in a different format or language, please contact us on 0131 660 1010.

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