Student Handbook 2324

STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2023-24

CONTENTS
01 - 02
03
04-05
06
07-10
11
12
13
14
15
16-17
18
19-22
23
24
25
26
27
28-30
WELCOME
OUR MISSION, VISION & VALUES
LEARNING AGREEMENT
TERM DATES
COLLEGE RULES
SUSPENSION & EXCLUSION
SAFEGUARDING
STUDENT SUPPORT
HEALTH & SAFETY
PREVENT
BE READY
AWARDS & PRIZES
YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME
CAREERS
PERSONAL & SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
TRIPS & ENRICHMENT
STUDENT VOICE
BURSARIES
OTHER INFORMATION
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WELCOME TO
DV8 SUSSEX
Dv8 is proud to be one of the only independent providers in Sussex
offering creative courses for young people. Our mission is to empower
creative thinkers, to embrace the idea that anything is possible if you
approach it with an open and creative mind. We encourage you to be
problem solvers, to take risks without fear of failure and to work together
to overcome challenges. We are here to help and support you every step
of the way to make the most of every opportunity in the year ahead.
BE READY
MIRACLES COME IN
MOMENTS. BE READY
AND WILLING.
BE RESPECTFUL
TREAT OTHERS HOW
YOU WOULD LIKE TO
BE TREATED.
BE SAFE
BE CAUTIOUS, BE
CAREFUL AND BE
WELL PREPARED.
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WELCOME!
We are proud to be entering our 20th year
as one of the only independent providers
in Sussex offering creative courses for
young people. Our mission is to empower
creative thinkers, to embrace the idea that
anything is possible if you approach it with
an open and creative mind. We encourage
you to be problem solvers, to take risks
without fear of failure and to work together
to overcome challenges. We are here to
help and support you every step of the
way to make the most of every opportunity
in the year ahead.
Dv8 student’s learn in small class sizes, in
an environment that is inclusive and
supportive, where everyone will know your
name and where expectations are high.
Our courses are a unique mix of creative
projects, enrichment activities, crosscourse
collaboration, work experience and
English and Math’s qualifications, all
delivered by tutors who have been there
and done it in the creative industries. Our
learning environments are designed to
help you succeed and progress onto the
next stage of your education equipped
with all of the skills needed in the modern
digital workplace.
We hope that over the next one, two or
three years with us you share many
amazing experiences at Dv8 whilst building
friendships and professional links that can
last a lifetime. We look forward to
supporting you on your journey and
helping you achieve your potential in your
chosen subject.
This Student Handbook is filled with useful
and essential information about the
College aiming to guide your through your
time as a Dv8 Student. If there is anything
you would like to know that’s not in here,
please talk to your tutor in the first
instance, or a member of the Centre Team,
Student Services or Learning Support.
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OUR MISSION,
VISION AND
VALUES
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OUR MISSION
Empowering creative thinkers to be
successful in work and life.
OUR VISION
Dv8 Sussex is a specialist college
offering young people aged 16-24
personalised, industry-led training in
the most vibrant & exciting creative
sectors. Through practical project
based learning our students gain real
life experience to develop skills in a
supportive and ambitious environment,
where there are continual opportunities
to work and think differently .
OUR VALUES
• Ambitious - We believe anything is
possible. We encourage our students
and staff to take risks, think creatively
and problem solve to reach their goals.
• Excellence - We love learning. We
strive to be excellent in all that we do
and recognise and celebrate success
throughout the organisation.
• Creativity - is at the heart of
everything that we do. • Collaborative -
No one can change the world alone. We
all need a team around us that can
function to achieve shared goals.
• Inclusive - We are committed to your
individual journey. No matter what your
starting point at Dv8 we will help you
achieve and progress.

LEARNING
AGREEMENT
We want to make sure you achieve everything you set out to do at Dv8 Sussex both
academically and personally. Knowledge and information are crucial to achievement,
and we want to ensure you understand how Dv8 Sussex works, what our expectations
are of you as a learner and what you can expect from us. This agreement underpins
the main points of the college rules given to you as part of your induction and relates
specifically to your Study Programme.
Please read the following carefully and seek clarification/ advice on any points that are
not clear.
The College will provide you with:
An introduction to the learning spaces and Dv8 Sussex within your first week. This
will include information on your course and qualifications, available facilities, staff,
and health and safety procedures.
Opportunities for regular assessment, reviews of your progress both vocational and
personal and clear systems for recording your achievements.
A curriculum that stretches and challenges you to achieve all you can.
Individual advice, guidance and support at all stages of your learning including
additional support from external agencies if required.
Reasonable access to appropriate facilities, resources and equipment.
Agreed learning outcomes and learning support.
Opportunities to comment on your learning programme and course or centre
facilities.
Clear and timely information and support relating to your personal progression plan
into further / higher education and training or employment.
Equality of opportunity.
Inclusivity, Equality of Opportunity and ensuring you are treated fairly.
A safe, comfortable and friendly environment.
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You will have signed a copy of this agreement at enrolment. By doing so, you agree:
That you have received appropriate advice and guidance from staff to assess your
suitability for your choice of programme and level.
To accept responsibility for your own learning and to review your progress with the
support of your tutor(s).
That you understand places can be withdrawn within the first 6 weeks if
attendance, punctuality and/or attitude to learning are considered below that
deemed acceptable standards.
That you understand you are following a full-time study programme. This means
that you will need to commit 5 days per week to your studies, both in and out of
college.
Your course requires you to engage with vocational studies, sessions on Personal
and Social Development, Careers and a minimum of 35 hours of work
placement/experience, social action, and English & maths, as appropriate.
To punctually attend 100% of all timed activities and that on the rare occasion you
may be absent, this absence is accounted for in at detail and a timely fashion.
You understand that any student who is absent for four consecutive weeks
becomes ineligible for funding and the college will need to withdraw from their
studies.
To take responsibility for your behaviour in and around the centre and whilst
involved in trips or activities associated with Dv8 Sussex. The college’s expectation
is that you are:
Ready to learn
Respectful to others
Safe in all your behaviours
To complete your work to the best of your ability and within specified deadlines, as
required by your tutor(s).
To follow and respect published Dv8 Sussex policies and procedures (copies of
which are available from the Centre Team office and on the Dv8 website).
That the information provided to create your ILR (Individual Learning Record) is
correct and that you will inform Dv8 Sussex of any changes immediately.
To look after all resources and facilities and return any borrowed equipment on
time.
To wear student lanyard and ID whilst on site and representing the college - a
charge may be payable if this is lost.
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TERM DATES
2023-24
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BE READY
BE RESPECTFUL
BE SAFE.
These are the three simple rules of Dv8. Think about your actions, behaviour and
language and if they are not respectful or safe, or you are not ready and prepared to
learn, then you are breaking the rules.
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BE READY
TO LEARN
We want Dv8 to be a safe and welcoming place for all students, staff and visitors. In
order for this to be the case, there are a few rules that need to be followed at all times.
The Rules
You will attend every session and be on time.
Food and drink is not allowed to be consumed in classrooms or practical spaces -
the only exception is bottled water.
Mobile phone use is not allowed during lesson time, unless used as part of
teaching, learning and assessment.
Hats, hoods and outdoor coats must be removed during lesson time. Bags and
rucksacks must not be worn in class.
Posting photos or video from lessons onto social media is forbidden unless consent
has been given by your teacher.
You must arrive prepared for what you need in order to fulfil your proper work
expectations - pens, notebooks, instruments, technical equipment as applicable.
Drugs, smoking, vaping or alcohol use in college, or being in college suspected as
under the influence, is forbidden and will be a serious disciplinary matter.
Participating in gambling of any kind whilst on site is not allowed.
Students must wear their ID visibly on college premises.
College facilities & IT are used with respect & in line with DV8 policy.
Assessed work will be submitted on the agreed deadlines.
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BE RESPECTFUL
TO OTHERS
Dv8 is a safe, respectful and inclusive environment. Whilst at college you are expected
to treat others with respect, regardless of difference, gender identity or ethnic diversity.
Any behaviour which contravenes these requirements may include but is not limited to:
Bullying
Abusive language or actions
Sexual name calling or harassment
Violent or abusive behaviour (including sexual) of any kind
If the above is not adhered to you will be suspended, without prejudice, and a
Student Contract meeting will be arranged with you and your parent/carer.
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BE SAFE
IN ALL YOUR BEHAVIOURS
Whilst attending Dv8 Sussex, students are expected to act as ambassadors for the
college, modelling positive and appropriate behaviour at all times. Consequences can
be issued by any student in or around the centre buildings who are not showing the
expected behaviour standards. This may include, but is not limited to:
Damage to property and equipment
Inappropriate behaviour shown to other students or members of the public
Littering - use the bins provided for litter and recycling, both in College and in our
local community.
Alcohol and drug use
Stay away from the nearby loading bays, our neighbours’ doorways and be mindful of
the taxis turning around in the area (Brighton site)
Do NOT invite non-Dv8 students on to College premises. Only Dv8 students are
allowed on site.
If the above is not adhered to you will be suspended, without prejudice, and a Student
Contract meeting will be arranged with you and your parent/carer.
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SUSPENSION AND
EXCLUSION
These are issued immediately for seriously unacceptable or criminal behaviour,
including (but not exclusively) damage to college property or facilities, threats or use of
violence, sexual harassment (in person or online) for example, sexual name calling,
wolf whistling or requesting/sharing nude images, sexual abuse or violence of any
kind, bullying (verbal, physical or online), extreme prejudice or unsafe opinions, use of
drugs, alcohol or other controlled substances, and theft.
You will be suspended, without prejudice, on a review of the incident, you could be
permanently excluded. Parent/guardians will immediately be informed where
applicable and a behaviour meeting with a member of the management team and
parent/guardian will be organised. We do not expect any students to receive more
than one suspension and will move to permanently exclude any students who are
persistently demonstrating unacceptable behaviour. A suspension will bar a student’s
progression to higher levels of study within DV8.
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SAFEGUARDING
Dv8 Sussex aims to create an environment in which students and staff feel safe and
protected. We have a duty to safeguard our students from a number of risks which
include: sexual abuse and inappropriate relationships, physical and emotional abuse or
neglect, domestic violence, bullying, self-harm and victimisation due to race, sexual
orientation, faith,gender, gender identity, age, marital status or disability. If you are
affected byany of these issues, or are concerned about someone else, we
recommend you speak to you tutor or a member of the student support team.
Please note, members of staff will not be able to promise to keep something
confidential or a secret if they feel your safety is at risk and there may be times where
we have to tell someone else about what you have told us. We will discuss this with
you first however. This will happen if we think or are told that:
1.You, or other(s) are experiencing (or at risk of experiencing) emotional harm, sexual
harm, physical harm or neglect.
2.If we think that something you have told us may compromise, threaten or undermine
the safety or security of learners, Dv8 staff or property.
If you’re worried about your safety or the safety of a friend call Student Services team
or email n.lombardo@londonlc.org.uk who is one of the Designated Safeguard Leads.
A R E Y O U W O R R I E D ?
Scan here to report a concern you
have for yourself or another student.
If you’re worried about your own or
another person’s immediate safety and
you think you/they may be significant
risk of harm, please speak to any
member of staff straight away.
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STUDENT SUPPORT
The Student Experience and Learning Support Teams are here to make sure you have
the best possible experience and outcome during your time with us. There may be
occasions when you need to talk confidentially about some aspect(s) of your college
or personal life. Student Services are there to help you and can offer advice and
guidance or just be there to listen.
STRUCTURED SUPPORT
Structured support has been developed to help all Dv8 students to overcome issues
they may be having with the subject content of their studies. We can provide expert
guidance and support to ensure students work is reflective of their abilities and help
them stay on track. Learning Support will also help those that need a little extra to
further develop their English and Maths studies. To find out more please get in touch
with Learning Support or make a referral through the Google Forms link that will be
distributed.
You can access support, either directly by going to the Learning Support team or by
speaking to your tutor. If you are finding anything difficult that is impacting on your
learning, we will support you with a personalised plan for your needs which may
include 1-2-1’s in and out of class, group work, regular check ins, mentoring, drop ins,
referrals to outside agencies and advocacy. We care about your welfare and learning
experience above all else.
SICKNESS
If you are feeling unwell whilst at College, you should go to the Centre Office, either to
sign out or to call a First Aider. Please do not leave the site without telling a tutor or the
Centre office.
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HEALTH AND SAFETY IN
THE COLLEGE
Be Safe - All areas at Dv8 Sussex have Risk Assessments covering the activities that
students are asked to participate in. These assessments reduce the risk of injury to a
minimum, by the use of control measures. These controls will be communicated to you
for each activity.
•Take care! Accept personal responsibility for your own safety and watch out for your
fellow students.
•Follow the rules and warnings given to you in your lessons, in specialist areas (e.g.
Green Screen room, music studio) and in other situations which may be hazardous –
e.g. outside field work or work experience.
•Do not misuse, neglect, damage or interfere with any safety equipment. Your own
safety, or that of other students, may depend on them working on another occasion.
•Report hazards to teaching staff or Centre Management teams. This could prevent
other people from accident and injury.
•Accidents or Serious Illness - In the event of an accident or serious illness, please
speak to any member of staff. If you are involved in an
accident, even if it is relatively minor, please see a First Aider to complete an Accident
Report Form.
•First Aid - There are green and white First Aid posters in every room. Ensure that you
have read and understood the instructions. You can contact a First Aider by going to
the Centre Office.
•Fire and Emergency Procedures – In the event of a fire or other emergency, a siren
will sound continuously and you will be asked to leave the building immediately, using
the signposted fire exit (main doors at the front of the building).
It is your responsibility to know the routine thoroughly. You must meet at the
designated assembly point (Brighton: Back of Victoria House on Windsor Road. Bexhill:
the corner of Wilton Road and Endwell Road- towards Bexhill station). Wait at the
Assembly point until you are given further instructions. Do not re-enter any buildings
unless instructed to do so by a member of staff. Please remember:
• Do not stop to pick up your coat or bag.
• Do not smoke whilst the fire alarm is sounding.
• Stay with your class and your tutor at all times.
• Once you have been told to re-enter the building please do so immediately, it is
not a break time
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PREVENT AND VALUES
WHICH BRITAIN
SUPPORT
We promote what are known as ‘British Values’ at Dv8. These include:
• Democracy
• The Rule of Law
• Individual Liberty
• Mutual respect for and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and for
those without faith.
We also follow the Government’s ‘Prevent’ strategy, designed to keep us safe from the
dangers of radicalization or extremism of any sort. Radicalisation involves developing
increasingly negative views influenced by a political or religious ideology or cause.
As outlined in our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy we treat radicalisation and
extremism with the same level of attention as any other safeguarding issue.
We will run sessions on the national Prevent Strategy and ‘British Values’ as part of
your induction and PSD education. To keep you safe, we have a web filtering system
called ‘Securly’ which monitors searches and key and generally checks all college
online activity for signs of extremist, harmful or inappropriate content and offer
targeted support through the Safeguarding team.
Equality and Diversity
One of Dv8’s values is inclusivity and the belief that all people are of equal worth,
entitled to be treated fairly and without prejudice in every aspect of College life. We
expect all our students to show consideration for themselves, and for others, at all
times. More information about our Equality and Diversity Policy can be found on the
College website.
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BE READY
Attendance & Punctuality
Part of the experience of coming to Dv8 is to prepare you for the demands and
challenges of adult working life; where the expectation is that you arrive on time and
attend every day that you are required to. At Dv8, you are expected to attend all
timetabled lessons and tutorials. You must also be available for 1 to 1 meeting’s, given
suitable notice, with members of staff throughout the College day.
You should be in the classroom at least 5 minutes before the start of the session.
Arriving late to a lesson is not acceptable and disrupts your own and others’ learning.
Regular lateness will result in communication home to parents/carers and possible
suspension from the course.
Missing or arriving late at planned sessions will lead to you falling behind in your
studies and may affect your final grading and achievement.
If you arrive late in class for any session take your seat without disrupting the class. The
tutor will speak to you at the next available opportunity to discuss why you were late.
What to do if you are absent?
You must call the Centre to inform us that you will not be coming in to college before
9.30am on the morning of your absence.
To report a student absence, please use one of the following methods:
Brighton
Call Brighton Centre Office : 01273 550432
Bexhill
Call Bexhill Centre Office : 01424 213890
You can also email absence@dv8learn.org.uk.
Authorised absence: If you have a medical appointment or have another unavoidable
reason for being absent please provide written evidence to the Centre team outlining
the reason for your absence. Please note that persistent absence through illness will
be investigated to see how we can best support you to continue in your learning.
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If you fail to inform us in advance, your absence will be listed as unauthorised. Only the
college can decide if an absence is authorised or unauthorised.

BE READY
Types of Absence - We reserve the right to consider issues on a case-by-case basis,
but below serves as our general guide to what could be seen as acceptable reasons to
miss college. You should only miss college for serious, unavoidable reasons. Usually
acceptable reasons include:
Ø You are too ill to leave the house
Ø You have a hospital appointment, or a medical emergency
Ø You have a day of religious observance
Ø There has been a family bereavement
Ø University and Employer Open Days
Ø Work experience – requests for term-time leave for essential work experience
will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. These requests should be submitted at
least two weeks in advance
Persistent unauthorized absence will be dealt with by a 4 stage process:
Stage 1 – One week of non-attendance/lateness or two weeks of same day absence
will result in a Student Contract meeting between the student, parent/carer, tutor and
the relevant Attendance Officer.
Stage 2 – Two weeks or three weeks of same day absence will result in a ‘Learner at
Risk’ Action Plan meeting between the student, parent/carer, tutor and the relevant
Attendance Officer.
Stage 3 - Three weeks non attendance/ lateness or four weeks of same day absence
will result in a letter being sent home from the Principal stating that the student is “at
risk” of being withdrawn.
Stage 4 – Student will be withdrawn
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AWARDS & PRIZES
We have a number of prizes and rewards for good attendance and exceptional
behaviour, which are held throughout the year.
Termly Attendance Prize
Yearly Attendance Prize Draw
All of the top attenders for the year will go into a prize draw with the winner
(one for each Centre) being drawn at the End of Year Show. Prize TBC
‘Good News’ Postcards
Dv8 Breathrough Awards
All staff members are able to hand out personalised postcards which celebrate a
student going above and beyond what is expected of them. Postcards can be
exchanged for vouchers at the centre office.
5 postcards = £5 voucher
10 Postcards = £10 voucher
15 postcards = £15 voucher
You will not be able to cash in vouchers beyond £15.
We love to celebrate our students at Dv8!
Each term and year we have special awards which highlight those students who go
above and beyond during their time with us.
DV8 AWARDS
Breakthrough
Awards
Attendance
Awards
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Charlie Stoneham This is awarded to the
student has consistently worked hard to
overcome barriers to their learning.
Fern Ritchie Award This is awarded to the
student that has shown great promise in
their chosen field, has shown clear
progression from their start date and is
moving forward into their chosen industry,
or onto further study in that field.
Termly top 5 This is awarded to the top 5
students (5 from each centre) that have
achieved excellent attendance (over 95%)
for each term. Prize - £10 voucher
Yearly Prize All of the top attenders( (over
95%) for the year will go into a prize draw
with the winner (one for each centre). It is
drawn at the end of year show. Prize - TBC

YOUR STUDY
PROGRAMME AT DV8
Upon enrolment, you will be asked to sign your “Learner Agreement” confirming your
planned hours of attendance and main vocational qualification aims. You will be
provided with your timetable detailing all of your planned teaching and learning at Dv8.
Vocational Course Content
You will be provided with information during induction outlining the key elements of
learning within your course as well as key work submission and assessment deadlines.
Please be sure to read through all the information given.
If you have any questions please ask your Tutor or someone from the Centre Team or
Student Services and we can ensure you have all the information you need.
English and Maths
Your English and Maths aims may be confirmed at enrolment or following an initial
assessment period in the first half term. Learners that start on roll in September and
have a D/ 3 at GCSE or a Functional Skills Level 1 will be put in for GCSE’s. Learners
joining later in the year e.g (past December/ January) may be put on GCSE’s
depending on prior attainment (qualification level achieved before comingto Dv8) or a
stepping stone qualification e.g. functional skills in line with ESFA English and Maths
conditions of funding.
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COURSEWORK DEADLINES
It is essential that you meet all your coursework and assignment deadlines. Your tutors
will confirm any deadlines with you and you can also check the course schedule on
the Google Classroom. Make a note of the relevant dates in your calendar and allow
time to complete these. Late submissions may not be marked or will achieve a lower
mark due to lateness. All coursework should be submitted to your tutor as agreed
unless alternative arrangements have been made.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT
COURSE
The Induction period provides time to see if the course you are on is right for you. We
call this ‘right course choice period’. If you feel at any time during the induction period
that you may not be on the right course, or if you feel that there is another course at
Dv8 more suitable, or at another level, please be sure to raise this with your tutor as
soon as possible. We can then discuss options with you as soon as possible to make
sure that you are on the right course for your level of work, career aspirations and
interests.
PLAGIARISM
Plagiarism means taking someone else’s words, thoughts or ideas and copying them or
trying to pass them off as your own. It is a form of cheating which is taken very
seriously. It is alright to make reference to other people’s work, as long as you have
given it credit in a bibliography and used quotation marks where appropriate. There are
many ways that Teachers and Examiners detect plagiarism:
Changes in the style of writing and use of language
Familiarisation with the topics they are marking, and a good chance they many
have read the source you have used.
Internet search engines and specialised computer software can be used to match
phrases or pieces of text with original sources and to detect changes in the
grammar and style of writing or punctuation.
If it is discovered that you have broken the regulations, one of the following penalties
will be applied by the awarding body:
The piece of work will be awarded zero marks
You will be disqualified from the unit for that exam session
You will be disqualified from the whole subject for that exam session
You will be disqualified and barred from entering again for a period of time
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It’s your qualification, it needs to be your own work.

EXAMINATIONS,
ASSESSMENTS & APPEALS
After your initial assessments at enrolment, it will be decided what level of English and
Maths you will be taking, either Functional Skills or GCSE. If you are following a GCSE
pathway and will have to sit an exam you will be issued with a statement of entry.
In the exams the following rules must be adhered to:
No mobile phones, MP3 players, products with electronic communication, storage
devices or digital facilities are allowed in the exam room
No water bottles with labels on
No food
Only clear pencil cases
Any infringement of these rules could result in disqualification. Please remember to
bring your student ID to all timetabled exams.
If you would like to appeal any of your exam or assessment outcomes please follow
the guidance and procedures outlined in our Assessment Appeals Policy and
Procedure document, available on our website or speak to your Tutor or a member of
the Centre Team.
CERTIFICATES
All exam certificates will be available to collect, after exam results have been
published at the end of the Summer break. Along with your certificates you will get a
Statement of Results. Students need to collect their certificate in person from the Dv8
site they attended. If this is not possible the certificate can be posted home if you let us
know in advance and we have your correct address. Un-collected certificates will be
destroyed after 1 year. After this time you will have to contact the awarding body.
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GOOGLE CLASSROOM
Google Classroom can be accessed from the college computers and from home, with
your usual log-in name and password on any browser. The classroom contains
material uploaded by teachers in your subjects including homework assignments and
has important information, notices and updates on the front page. You can also
communicate with your tutors through this platform.
CEIAG
(CAREERS, EDUCATION,
INFORMATION, ADVICE &
GUIDANCE)
As a vocational College it’s our aim to help prepare you for life after Dv8, whether
that’s employment, further or higher education or an apprenticeship. We do this in a
number of ways:
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Work Experience
Work Experience is an essential part of your course and the college will support you in
securing appropriate placements. It's a great opportunity to broaden your skills, build
confidence and help you stand out from the crowd. Students are required to actively
seek out work experience opportunities for themselves throughout the year. We can
give you advice on how to research and approach businesses, how to put together a
CV, how to apply for positions and how to present yourself well.
Specialist Industry Placements
This year Dv8 continues to run a special pilot programme on behalf of the government
to trial a new type of work experience called ‘Industry Placements’ which will
eventually become a mandatory part of the new T Level qualifications. These Industry
Placements are much longer than normal work experience opportunities, involving a
weekly commitment of approximately 45 days over the course of the academic year.
They will deliver meaningful, high quality placements where you will use the technical
skills and knowledge you have learnt in the classroom and apply this in the workplace.
This is a new, exciting opportunity which will grow your confidence, provide you with
genuine industry experience and help you network in your specialist vocational area.
Previous participants have even gone on to get paid work with their placement
provider. These placements will be a weekly commitment of 1 day per week in addition
to your college days, over the academic year. There are however limited places
available so if you are interested in taking part in this programme, either speak to your
tutor or email the Stakeholder Engagement Co-ordinator l.elkhatib@londonlc.org.uk as
soon as possible giving your name and course title to find out more.
Careers Events
Dv8 offers a great mix of career related opportunities from guest speakers to
interactive workshops and masterclasses, trips out and visits from industry
professionals from all curriculum areas, sharing their career journey and talking about
opportunities and careers within their creative sector.
Careers Advice & Guidance
During your time with us you will have the opportunity for an appointment with a
professional Careers Adviser who can help you to look at the most suitable progression
options for you after your course at Dv8, write a CV and help prepare you for job
applications and interviews.
Support for UCAS Applications
You will be encouraged to consider all progression options after Dv8. We are
ambitious for all our students and will encourage you to aim for and apply to university.
There will be talks and workshops, advice and support about the HE route and
application process through the PSD programme and tutorials as well as visits to UCAS
events as appropriate. If you have any questions or need more information about this
please speak to your tutor or email the UCAS Lead n.lombardo@londonlc.org.uk
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PERSONAL AND SOCIAL
DEVELOPMENT
This is an essential part of the course which is all about your development as a person.
To succeed in life, you need more than expertise in your chosen area in
Music/Media/Games, you need other 'soft skills' as well, to be able to communicate,
work with others, look after yourself, apply for and obtain employment, conduct
relationships and be aware of difference in people and society - all things which
contribute to you having a successful and fulfilling life. It will cover key areas like how
to keep yourself safe, homelessness, drugs and alcohol, health and wellbeing,
equality and gender issues, current and global affairs, mental health and resilience,
sexual health, relationships and careers and employability. It will also celebrate key
dates in the calendar or themes throughout the year like Black History Month, World
Mental Health Day, Anti-Bullying Week and National Careers Week, with visiting
speakers and organisations to help raise awareness, reinforce learning and bring topics
to life.
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TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT
To ensure that you get the best experience as possible we organise and arrange a
number of trips and enrichment activities in and out of college timetable. The College
offers a wide range of enrichment opportunities throughout the year including:
Theme Days
Visiting speakers
Careers events
Specialist workshops
Special projects
Off-site visits
You will hear about these opportunities from your tutor, the internal screens at the
college, by checking your Dv8 email, social media or asking the Centre team.
Trips
Some trips may require a financial contribution, you may be able to access the
Discretionary Bursary to go on a trip. You must apply well in advance to the Centre
Office.
Level 3 Music Students attend The Great Escape Music
Conference in May 2022
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STUDENT VOICE
We value your input and views at Dv8; and in line with the emphasis we place on the
value of Democracy, feel that it is important that your opinions are heard. This is done
in a number of ways; at certain points in the year you will be asked to complete
surveys or questionnaires and it is important that as many of you respond to these as
possible otherwise only a small number of learners’ views are represented. We need
students to sit on interview panels when we recruit new staff and on occasions will
require specific student feedback on new premises perhaps or other college
developments. There is a termly Student Voice meeting and you will be asked to
nominate and elect a course representative during induction week. From time to time
Student Voice focus groups are held where learners get the chance to come together
and provide feed-back either on specific issues or on the wider student experience at
Dv8.
If you would like to get involved or find out more please contact your centres
Attendance and Engagement Officer.
YOU SAID.
WE DID.
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LEARNER SUPPORT FUND
AND BURSARIES
There is money available to help you with your studies. We offer three types of
bursary which can be accessed to help with different aspects of being at Dv8:
1. 16 -19 Bursary
Discretionary Bursary
This a small pot of money designed to enable students, who would have difficulty
otherwise, to access education. This includes help with travel, equipment, food and
trips. This bursary is assessed and based on the individual students need and
circumstance and we cannot guarantee that the full costs will be met.
2. Vulnerable Bursary
This is a bursary for students who are living in care, care leavers or in receipt of
specified Government support. This will be assessed based on your specific needs up
to a total of £1,200 a year. As this is based on your needs you may not receive the full
£1,200. All bursaries are dependent on attendance and behaviour.
3. Free College Meals
If you or your parent/guardian receive income support, Child or Working Tax credits or
universal credit you may be entitled to a free meal each day you attend college.
Learners in receipt of Free College Meals will receive a voucher from the office each
day to buy sandwich, a snack and a drink each day they are in.
For further information on how to claim all the funds please speak to the Centre team.
Please note you will need to provide evidence of your parent's/carer's benefit
entitlement. To apply, please visit our website for a digital form or speak to the Centre
Co-ordinator. For any information on the financial assistance available and other
options; such as how to obtain an NUS Card (now known as Totem card) and
associated discounts, plus various travel options, please talk to the Centre Team.
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pn

OTHER STUFF AT DV8
Wi-Fi login details
Dv8 Brighton: Dv85uss3X17!
Bexhill Guest: Hon3ycomb
Things to remember – it is very important that you:
Wear your College Identity card lanyard at all times when you are in College and
produce it at the request of any staff member. You will also need it on any exam
days.
Check your College email account daily and the Google Classroom for your course
for important news and information.
Bicycles
There are nearby public bike racks, we advise you to lock it with a secure D-lock and
take out insurance cover for your bicycle.
The C-Card App
The C-Card App enables young people up to the age of 25 to access free
contraception and testing in Sussex. Dv8 Sussex is an access point for this for Dv8
students. Download the app and get free contraception. To find out more please speak
to a member of the Centre Team
Communicating with Staff
You will be given an email address for use with the college. We will use this to send
vital information to you. Please check this email daily. When emailing a member of Dv8
staff, or emailing anyone from your Dv8 email address, please consider carefully the
tone of your message and be considerate and polite. You can expect a response from
a member of staff within five working days. You should not normally email a member
of staff over a matter which requires an immediate response – in these instances you
must find someone and speak with them.
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Lost Property
You must take responsibility for anything you bring to college, Dv8 cannot take any
responsibility for loss or damage, however caused. Make sure you have appropriate
insurance cover for items such as musical instruments, mobile phones and anything
else of value. We strongly advise that you do not bring large amounts of money into
college.
If you lose any items, please go to the Centre Office where it might have been handed
in. If you find someone else’s lost property, please bring it to the Centre Office where it
will be logged and stored. Unclaimed lost property will be disposed of at the end of
each year.
Mobile Phone use
Mobile phones are banned from class completely at Dv8 Sussex. If you wish
to use your phone or are expecting a phone call, please arrange this for break times
only. If you use your phone in class you will be asked to put the phone away in a
pocket or bag, if you become disruptive you will be asked to leave the classroom.
Online Media (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+, Blogs, Forums etc.)
When communicating as a Dv8 Student, consider your online reputation and digital
footprint. Always write professionally, with accurate spelling and grammar. Use the
right level of formality.
Remember that online, anyone can read what you say and it can be reposted
anywhere. Imagine an employer, a university, or a parent was going to read your
comment and then write it.
Part Time Jobs
Many students have part-time jobs and gain personal and financial benefit from them.
However, we ask that you take on no more than a maximum of 10 hours a week. You
must not arrange to undertake paid work at any time during the college day, as you
may be required to attend meetings with staff at any time.
Student Spaces
In both Bexhill and Brighton campuses there are spaces for students to work and relax
in. We expect these spaces to be looked after and respected by all, if they are found to
be left in a consistently bad state access will be restricted. 10 minutes before the end
of each session you will be expected to help tidy the space and leave it in a usable
state for the next session.
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Use of the College Computer Network
The network at Dv8 Sussex is provided for you to carry out work related to your
college work only. You will be asked to sign a Code of Conduct (user agreement) when
you start which means you are agreeing to abide by the college’s rules concerning use
of the computer network and equipment.
You have to access to a College server drive which can be accessed by a username
and password, this will be given out at the start of the year. If you have any problems
accessing the drive or your work, please report this to the Centre Team.
Please ensure you read and understand the IT/ Equipment Housekeeping rules below:
Only use software that is provided for your use by the College. Any attempts to
install software will result in disciplinary action.
The internet is for educational use; you must not access unsuitable material. All
internet activity is monitored via our secured filtered domain and improper use can
result in disciplinary action.
Do not download executable files, music, movies, or any copyrighted material. If
you need to download something to support your coursework, please consult your
tutor first.
Report any faults to the tutor, Learning support assistant or other supervising
member of staff.
You must not use the system in such a way as to cause inconvenience to others.
When you leave a computer, ensure that you tidy up after yourself, placing
unwanted print outs in the recycling bins and logging out.
No eating or drinking is allowed in the vicinity of computers under any
circumstances.
You are responsible for making backup copies of all work in case of a system
failure.
Lastly...
Enjoy your time at Dv8, you will get out of college experience what you put in.
Work hard, attend every day, be on time, turn up for lessons and keep up with
assignments and you WILL SUCCEED ! Many of our students have gone on to have
fantastic careers in the creative industries and we want you to do the same. For more
info don't forget to check the Dv8 Website www.dv8sussex.com
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