Preston College Apprenticeship Welcome Guide September 2026

APPRENTICESHIP WELCOME GUIDE

www. preston .ac.uk

WELCOME

I am delighted to welcome you to Preston College. You are now part of a vibrant community that values hard work, innovation, and a passion for learning. Together with your employer, we will ensure that your time at Preston College is not just an educational journey, but a life-changing experience that prepares you for a successful and fulfilling career. Throughout your apprenticeship, you will be supported by a dedicated team of tutors, mentors, and industry professionals who are here to guide you every step of the way. Through a combination of hands-on experience, expert instruction, and a supportive learning environment, we will provide you with the skills, knowledge, and support you need to thrive in your chosen industry and reach your full potential. In return, we ask that you demonstrate your dedication and commitment to both your role and your studies. Ensuring excellent attendance and punctuality will not only enhance your learning experience, but also help develop the attitude that will serve you well in your future career. I am confident that your apprenticeship will be a rewarding and enriching experience, and I look forward to seeing all that you will achieve.

LINZI MONKS Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement

This guide provides you with an insight into the College. For more detailed information, please log onto your

online handbook through Canvas.

THE RIGHT APPRENTICESHIP

Preparing you for your future We are dedicated to preparing you for a successful future by focusing on helping you achieve the highest standards in your chosen field. Our goal is to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and experience you need to thrive in your future career. We're excited to support you on this journey and ensure that you leave here ready to excel in your industry.

CAMPUS MAP

MOTORBIKES

EV CHARGERS

SMO

Sharoe Green Lane Car Park Entrance

VAPIN

Campus Key 1

Reception, In-Zone, Learning Zone & Chill Zone 2 Skills Development Centre 3 Adult & Higher Education Centre (Print room) 4 Main Building (Student Services,

5 Service Industries 6 Visual & Performing Arts (Work Experience oce, Student Manager oce)

Digital Suites 7

8 Construction Skills Centre 9 iSTEM 10 Health & Wellbeing Centre (Sports Hall and Gym) 11 Starbucks 12 A Campus High Street B Astroturf Pitch C St Vincent’s Road Car Park D Sharoe Green Lane Car Park Food Court (Campus Cohesion oce)

Buses Only

CAMPUS MAP Please note, from 1 November parking will be monitored by an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system across both car parks. Signage is in place to indicate where you can park your vehicle.

Bicycles Motorbikes EV Chargers Smoking Vaping

St Vincent’s Rd Car Park

Please note: as an apprentice you won't follow the traditional term dates. Your Work-Based Tutor will let you know the weeks you are not expected to be in class. COLLEGE TERM DATES 2026/27

AUTUMN TERM 2026

Monday 31 August

College closed for Bank Holiday

Wednesday 2 – Friday 4 September

16-19 Induction

Monday 7 September

Term 1 starts (7 weeks)

Monday 26 October – Friday 30 October

Mid Term Break 1

Wednesday 16 December

End of Term (7 weeks)

SPRING TERM 2027

Monday 4 January

Term 2 starts (6 weeks)

Monday 15 – Friday 19 February

Mid Term Break 2

Thursday 25 March

End of Term (5 weeks) Easter Bank Holidays

Friday 26 March & Monday 29 March

SUMMER TERM 2027

Tuesday 13 April Monday 3 May Monday 31 May

Term 3 starts (7 weeks)

COLLEGE CLOSED – Early May Bank Holiday COLLEGE CLOSED – Spring Bank Holiday

Tuesday 1 June – Friday 4 June

Mid Term Break

Friday 25 June

End of Term (3 weeks)

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YOUR SIX WEEK INDUCTION

FIND YOUR WAY • Familiarise yourself with our two carparks and nearest bus stops • Enjoy a campus tour • Pick up a map • Visit your classrooms

GET TO KNOW THE CAMPUS If your apprenticeship requires you to attend college why not: • Grab a coffee in Starbucks • Have fun in the Chill Zone • Take time out to study in our newly refurbished Learning Zone • Share best practice from those within other organisations

MEET PEOPLE • Tutors • Other Apprentices • Your work mentor and work colleagues

WHEN ON CAMPUS • Always wear your membership card • Be prepared: Bring a pen and paper and your kit if necessary • Mobile phones are allowed, but you must follow tutor instructions for usage during your lessons • Designated smoking and vaping shelters will be shown to you and are located on the College map • There are a lot of staff around, if you need any help just ask!

RECEIVE IMPORTANT INFORMATION • Get your timetable*

• Induction presentation/ Work-Based Tutor meeting • Classroom and workplace expectations

*if applicable

FIVE As OF AMBITION

Accountability Take responsibility for the way your decisions and actions impact yourself and others. Attitude Positive behaviour and a strong work ethic are the foundations of a successful future.

Aspiration Aim high! We’ll support your progression and career goals, so you can reach your full potential. Attendance Excellent attendance is vital to your progress and demonstrates your commitment.

Achievement Be proud of your progress and celebrate your achievements and qualifications.

Five As of Ambition

COLLEGE EXPECTATIONS

You can expect... • to feel safe, listened to and respected • us to use professional language when addressing others • to be set stretching targets • regular feedback on your learning progress • to make excellent progress and be prepared for future study or employment

• to receive an enjoyable learning experience • industry standard facilities and resources • us to support your learning needs • enrichment opportunities • guest speakers • career guidance and next steps support

We expect apprentices... • to make the most of every learning opportunity and to achieve your full potential

• to be engaged and make a positive contribution • to use appropriate and inoffensive language • to show respect and consideration

• to arrive on time for lessons • to be prepared for learning • to dress appropriately • to keep yourself and others safe e.g.; • follow instructions

• wear your membership card • smoke and vape only in designated areas

ATTENDANCE

We have various attendance awards throughout the year to celebrate excellent attendance - be a part of it!

We know that every day at College contributes positively to your learning, and that every lesson attended leads to higher academic achievement and better chances of progression to either further study or into employment. We are committed to making your College experience as positive as possible, and the ‘Attendance Charter’ on the next page, reinforces your responsibilities and the College accountabilities in supporting you to enjoy your College experience and positively achieve your chosen qualifications. Our ambition is that every student attends every lesson, though we do recognise that sometimes attendance can be impacted by a range of factors. We will monitor your performance closely throughout your programme, and will celebrate positive attendance whilst also supporting and intervening if your attendance ever falls below expectation and becomes a concern. What do I do if I’m ill, miss the bus, or unable to get to work/college? If you are ill or unable to get into work, please follow your employer’s policy or staff handbook which will outline what you will need to do. If it is your designated college day and you are not able to come into college, or miss your bus, call the College to let us know by using the absence hotline number: 01772 225959 , or email absencehotline@preston.ac.uk . Alternatively you can contact your Work-Based Tutor or Business Development Lead. If you are leaving a message, make sure that you are clear on your reasons for absence. You may also be required to inform your employer that you are absent from college. I have been asked to study at home, will this affect my attendance? If a member of staff is absent from the College we will always try to arrange cover for your lesson. If suitable cover cannot be arranged you may be asked to work from home or attend your workplace. In this instance, your attendance would not be negatively impacted. If you are absent you must contact the College using one of these methods: ! Absence hotline: 01772 225959 Email: absencehotline@preston.ac.uk Online: www.preston.ac.uk/report-your-absence

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ATTENDANCE CHARTER

In positively impacting on apprentice attendance, the College will proactively engage all relevant stakeholders.

Apprentice • Attend college when required and take part in learning, recognising that ‘every lesson matters’ • To proactively inform the College if there are any barriers to learning • To provide feedback relating to the college experience. Delivery Staff • Provide inspirational and engaging learning activities • Ask learners ‘what will help’ if attendance drops • Provide a range of interventions to support attendance. College • Ensure a safe, positive and welcoming environment • Where appropriate, talk to parents / carers if attendance becomes a concern • Recognise individual need and cultural diversity • Think holistically about learner’s needs • Championing our learners, celebrating progress and walking ‘side by side’ with them. Parents / Carers • Support my child to get to college* • Encourage, advocate and engage in your child’s college experience • Ensure my child has what they need to engage positively in college • Ask them if they have any concerns with college and talk to the College if this is the case • To effectively communicate with the college, outlining any barriers to attendance and supporting intervention. External Partners • Where attendance is a concern, include it in the child’s plan • Support families to understand expectations of them • Link with Student Coordinators when there is a concern relating to attendance • To ensure safe and nurturing living environments • To ensure effective and timely access to healthcare provision and support needs • To engage positively in multi-agency planning, monitoring and intervention. Employer Partners • Promote attendance, behaviours and attitudes as being integral to achieving employment beyond the college • Support the delivery of engaging and inspirational curriculum • To provide coaching and mentorship, modelling employment skills and behaviours.

*if applicable

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ENRICHMENT

During your time a Preston College, you will be able to take part in a number of enrichment activities, specifically designed to enhance your time at college. The 'Preston Active' enrichment programme has opportunities for you to develop skills and meet other people with similar interests. You will be able to try new recreational and leisure activities including sports sessions in football, badminton, cricket, volleyball, dodgeball and fitness or join clubs including gaming and board games to name just a few on offer. There are also opportunities for you to join the student council and put forward your ideas for improvement and have your say on the College’s future.

SEE WHAT'S ON OFFER

As part of your course, you will be able to access:

• trips and visits related to your programme • employer visits and guest speakers • bespoke careers events for your curriculum area and industry.

LEARNING ZONE

The Learning Zone, housed over two floors, provides high quality support for learning outside of the classroom/workplace and a has variety of individual and group study spaces. The Learning Zone also offers efficient self-issue kiosks for the borrowing and returning of books, with eBooks and e-journals offered on a 24/7 access basis. The area is also home to over 90 PCs, bookable group work rooms and individual study spaces. Our Learning Zone team are always on hand to help you access the resources, services and support needed to develop your own independent study and research skills. The team offer a huge range of workshops on key topics including developing Harvard referencing, assignment writing and critical analysis as well as individual workshops on Academic Writing Skills and Research Study Skills, which are particularly useful for those studying higher level apprenticeships.

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FOOD OUTLETS

The Preston College campus offers an array of food and drink choices:

Food Court Offering a weekly rotating menu with dishes from around the world, as well as familiar favourites. Joe’s Chicken Shack Offers the ever-popular fast food chicken products and great value meal deals. The Sandwich Bar Here you’ll find a ‘Subway-style’ menu where you can create your own sandwiches with various bread types, fillings, toppings and more. Starbucks From barista-crafted coffees and iced lattes, to bacon sandwiches and waffles, you can enjoy a drink and catch up with others on the course in the subsidised, on-site Starbucks. The Shop Our on-campus shop offers everything from sweet treats to hot drinks, alongside hot and cold snacks and other essentials.

If you are studying with us in the evening, we recommend checking outlet opening times.

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PARENT SYSTEM & COLLEGE APP

Parent & Employer Portal Your parent/carer and employer (if applicable) will have access to our Parent & Employer Portal. The system allows your parents/carer and employer to access information such as attendance levels, enrolments, targets and comments made by staff. Your parent/carer or employer will receive information about how to access the system in the first term. ProPortal Apprentices can access up-to-date information on performance, attendance and punctuality via ProPortal and your relevant training platform such as OneFile, Markbook and Canvas. Please see your Work-Based Tutor for more information.

GET THE FREE PRESTON COLLEGE APP!

Preston College App The Preston College app will give you instant access to college news, your timetable, Canvas, course updates and much more. You will also receive updates on college enrichment activities, online groups you can join and plenty of other opportunities to make your time at Preston College even more rewarding and enjoyable. Simply browse your app store to install.

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SUPPORT

At Preston College, we want to ensure that you are able to talk about how you are feeling and can access emotional and academic support. The services we offer are below: Six Week Induction Within your apprenticeship programme, you will enjoy a six week induction as you familiarise yourself with the College’s support structure. You will meet your Work- Based Tutor your Work Place Mentor and your work colleagues. Your Work-Based Tutor will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and sign post you to our internal services should you require any further help or support. Your Employer Your employer is fully committed to supporting you throughout this journey. If you ever feel more comfortable discussing any concerns or need guidance, please don't hesitate to refer to your workplace policies, which will outline the support available to you. Mental Health First Aid Team Preston College has a Mental Health First Aid Team who have received specialist training to provide assistance in times of crisis. If you feel that you need support from a member of this team, ask any member of staff to call them and they will wait with you while they arrive. Counselling Team The Counselling Team offer a free and confidential service. The service is staffed by a team of professionally trained and experienced counsellors who offer a time limited service for eligible students. The service operates during term time only and is based in Student Services (EA004). You can self refer or ask to be referred by your Student Manager.

Safeguarding Team If you feel worried about yourself or others then you can talk to your Work-Based Tutor or a member of the Safeguarding Team. Contact details can be found on page 18. Business Development Leads Every apprentice has been guided to this point by their Business Development Lead (BDL). But it doesn’t stop there – your Business Development Lead will be with you through the duration of the apprenticeship, helping and supporting your progress. If you need any help, support or guidance, your BDL will be there for you! Contact details can be found on page 19. Apprentice Assessment and Mandatory Qualification Access Arrangements If you've previously received support during exams or in your classes, please inform your Work-Based Tutor or BDL if you haven't already done so during the interview process. Declaring any support needs ensures that you'll have the necessary measures in place not only before your Apprentice Assessment but also throughout your apprenticeship. Student Services We offer advice, support and guidance to all students across college. Student Services can support you with finances and college bursary, welfare and benefits information, counselling services, homelessness, transport information, safeguarding and Prevent. We are based on the ground floor of the main building (next to Reception) and are open in term time Monday - Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm. Preston College Equality Statement Preston College is committed to promoting and developing a learning and working environment that is inclusive, celebrates diversity and does not disadvantage any group. What this means The College will be a place where: • you will have the opportunity to participate fully in college life and achieve your full potential • any physical, social and economic barriers to access are minimised • the environment is welcoming and supportive • equality and diversity among staff, learners, employers and the wider community is actively promoted.

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PROGRESSION An apprenticeship offers a valuable opportunity for career growth by combining hands-on work experience with classroom learning. At Preston College, our apprentices benefit from real-life training that will help you build practical skills and gain industry experience. This approach not only prepares you for your current job but also sets you up for future career advancement, as you develop a strong foundation in your field and make important professional connections. Additionally, an apprenticeship with Preston College can lead to further opportunities for education and employment. The skills and experience gained during the apprenticeship can make it easier to pursue additional qualifications or training. Apprentices often find that their practical experience helps them stand out for promotions or new job opportunities, allowing you to explore a variety of career paths and continue your professional development. As your apprenticeship nears its end, your Work-Based Tutor and Business Development Lead will guide you through the next steps and discuss potential opportunities for progression. These conversations may also include your employer, who might be interested in advancing you to a higher level within the company. This collaborative approach ensures that you have a clear path forward and can make informed decisions about furthering your career or pursuing additional qualifications.

SAFEGUARDING TEAM

Tina Southworth Designated Safeguarding Lead Office LZ003 Tel 01772 225658 Mobile 07919 628 570 Email tsouthworth@preston.ac.uk

Sarah Nixon Safeguarding & Prevent Officer Office MB002 Tel 01772 225505 Mobile 07795 527 468 Email sarahnixon@preston.ac.uk

Gemma Moon Safeguarding & Prevent Officer Office MB002 Tel 01772 225141 Mobile 07549 035 577 Email gmoon@preston.ac.uk

Kat Fawcett Office SE115 Tel 01772 225328 Email kfawcett@preston.ac.uk

Kate Morris Office MB214 Tel 01772 225503 Email kmorris@preston.ac.uk

David Elliott Office LZB02 Tel 01772 225774 Email delliott@preston.ac.uk

Debbie Ireland Office SE003 Tel 01772 225600 Email direland@preston.ac.uk

Dan Crumblehulme Office AH017 Tel 01772 225743 Email dcrumblehulme@preston.ac.uk

Kirsty Braithwaite Office SE115 Tel 01772 225915 Email kbraithwaite@preston.ac.uk

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BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LEADS

Our Business Development Leads will be crucial contacts throughout your apprenticeship journey, serving as a consistent support from start to finish. They will play a key role in helping you navigate your apprenticeship, providing guidance on your professional development, and ensuring that you are well-aligned with your career goals. From the initial stages of your apprenticeship to its completion, they are there to offer advice, address any concerns, and help you make the most of your apprenticeship experience, ensuring a smooth and successful progression in your chosen field.

Sam Evans Construction & The Built Environment Work 01772 225744 Mobile 07800543842 Email sevans1@preston.ac.uk

Kirstie Lawlor Engineering & Automotive Technologies Work 01772 225742 Mobile 07971512591 Email klawlor@preston.ac.uk

Amanda Morey Construction & The Built Environment / Business & Professional Services Work 01772 225702 Mobile 07783809082 Email amorey@preston.ac.uk

Becky Lavin Business & Professional Services / Hair & Beauty Work 01772 225772 Mobile 07979700608 Email blavin@preston.ac.uk

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Preston College St Vincent’s Road Preston PR2 8UR

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