merrist wood college degree level programmes 2016:17

Degree LevelProgrammes

2016:17

Merrist Wood College has a long tradition ofexcellence. The site itself dates back to 1318, with the firstcourses starting in 1945. Since then we have won nationaland international acclaim at events such as RHS Showsand amongst employers and industry specialists for ourunrivalled education in the land-based sector.

Our Degree Level Programmes are vocationally-focusedand incorporate plenty of opportunities for you to gainindustry relevant experience, combined with underpinningbusiness knowledge. We also work hard to keep ourtuition fees competitive as we want your studies to beaccessible and affordable.

Our students frequently comment on the quality of our teachers, many of them industry experts; on ourresources, in which we continue to invest; and on thefriendly atmosphere of the College. I hope you decide to join them. ”Mike Potter CBEPrincipal & Chief Executive

“

www.merristwood.ac.uk 01

Choose Merrist Wood College 02

New Animal Management Centre 04

Fees 07

Financial Help 08

Entry Requirements 11

Accommodation 12

Quality Assurance Agency 13

International Students 14

Student Survey and Destinations 17

Applying 19

Student Soundbites 20

Student Engagement 22

Degree Level Programmes 24

Animal Behaviour and Welfare Foundation Degree FdSc

Animal Science Foundation Degree FdSc

Companion Animal Behaviour and Management Foundation Degree FdSc

Zoological Animal Behaviour and Management Foundation Degree FdSc

Animal Behaviour and Welfare BSc (Hons)

Animal Management BSc (Hons)

Equine Management HND

Equine Management BA (Hons)

Golf Management Foundation Degree FdA

Golf Management BA (Hons)

Sport (Health & Fitness) HNC/HND

Professional Qualifications 42

Arboriculture ABC Level 4 Award, Certificate and Diploma

Floristry Higher Diploma/Professional Master Diploma

Sports Turf Management NVQ Level 4

Other Information 46Everyone Matters 48

Degree Level Open Events:Wednesday 25 November 5.30-8pmThursday 19 May 5.30-8pm

400 Acre Outdoor ClassroomWoods, wetlands and grasslands; new diverse animalmanagement centre; one of the largest indoor ridingarenas of any college in the country and stabling for up to 40 horses; 18 hole adjoining privately ownedchampionship golf course; sports pitches.

University ValidatedOur Degrees and Foundation Degrees are validated by Kingston University.

Employer EndorsedThe College has a national and international reputationamongst employers and industry specialists and a long history of providing unrivalled education in the land-based sectors.

Valuable Work ExperienceOur courses provide opportunities for you to gain first-hand experience in a range of working environmentsrelated to your chosen career.

Quality TeachingIn 2014, a team of QAA reviewers visited Merrist WoodCollege and judged that its academic standards, thequality and enhancement of its student learningopportunities, and the quality of information about itshigher education provision all meet UK expectations.

Student SupportWith us, you’ll get individual and group tutorials, personaldevelopment planning and be part of small classes, all ina relaxed and friendly environment. You will also haveaccess to our Learning Resource Centre and HigherEducation Centre.

Students’ UnionThe Students’ Union organises recreational, social andcharity events throughout the year.

Flexible Learning OpportunitiesSome of our courses are available on a full and part-timebasis, providing the option to combine study with work,home or family life.

Location, Location, LocationGuildford is one of the country’s foremost locations forliving, shopping, entertainment, commerce and industryand London is only 40 minutes away by train.

AccommodationThe Halls of Residence are situated in a woodland settingand offer single study bedrooms with shared facilities,internet access and recreational activities. The residentialprovision was rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2015.For more information Tel: 01483 88 40 93 or [email protected].

04 Degree Level Programmes Prospectus

Our very competitive fees mean you could save up to £3,000 in comparison to universities

Higher Education Prospectus 2013 5www.merristwood.ac.uk 03


A brand new Animal Management Centre hasrecently opened at a cost of £4.5m.

The Animal Management Centre is a state-of-the-artbuilding for students studying Animal Management,Animal Behaviour and Welfare and other relatedprogrammes. The new Centre includes a Desert Biome,a Tropical Biome and a Nocturnal Zone housing a widevariety of species to enable them to be studied andcared for in a more natural environment.

This new facility will enable the College to deliver abroader, more exciting curriculum for learners as we

will be able to care for a much wider variety of speciesand allow students to interact with them more. TheCollege can now provide modern accommodation,which not only meets the needs of the currentcurriculum, but is also adaptable to respond as theindustry changes in the future.

Some of the new species that are included in the animal collection are Gouldian Finches, Dart Frogs, Plated Lizards, small primates and many more.


Welsh, Scottish or Irish students

If you are from Wales, Scotland or Ireland, your tuitionfees will be the same as those above. However, any helpwith your tuition fees or other costs will come from yourrelevant Government.

24+ Advanced Learning Loan

If you're starting a professional course on or after 1 August 2015 you may qualify for a 24+ AdvancedLearning Loan. This loan will help you to pay the tuitionfees for your course. Most students aged 24 and over,studying at Level 3 and above, will qualify for these newloans from the UK Government. It's easy to apply, yourhousehold income isn't taken into account and there's nocredit check. You won't have to pay anything back untilyour income is over £21,000 a year. For more informationvisit: www.gov.uk/advanced-learning-loans

International Students

A separate fee scale applies to international students.International fees apply to you if your permanentresidence is outside the UK or European Union. If you arean international student and would like more informationabout fees, contact our International Centre Tel: 0148344 86 90 or Email: [email protected]

Sponsored Students

If your employer is paying your fees on your behalf, youneed to make sure that the College receives signed,written evidence or an authorisation to invoice form, on a yearly basis. If no authorisation form is produced, youwill become liable for full payment of the fees.

Useful Contact Information

Finance Team Tel: 01483 44 85 26 or Email:[email protected]

Careers, Advice and Guidance Tel: 01483 88 40 40or Email: [email protected]

Student Finance England Tel: 08453 00 50 90or visit: www.gov.uk/studentfinance

Studying degree level programmes or a professionalqualification could be one of the best investments youmake. Not only will it develop your knowledge and skills,but gaining a higher level qualification will help you toincrease your employability and earning power.

Tuition Fees

We believe that our tuition fees are very competitivecompared with other colleges and universities. Forstudents starting in academic year 2016:17 our maximumtuition fee for a full-time degree level programme is£7,500. Please see www.merristwood.ac.uk for furtherdetails of fees.

Other Fees

As well as tuition fees, your course may have some or all of the following fees attached to it:

● Awarding body registration fees

● Exam fees

● Other costs (such as books, trips and essentialclothing or equipment)

Paying the Fees

If you are an eligible student studying for your firstundergraduate Degree you do not have to pay your fees up front. You can get a loan from the Government to cover the cost of tuition whilst you are studying. Youonly start repaying the loan when you are earning over£21,000 a year. For more information please contactStudent Finance England.

Already Have a Degree?

If you already have a Degree and want to do another one, your tuition fees will be the same as those above.However, you will not be eligible for any help from theGovernment for tuition fees or other costs and you willnot qualify for a National Scholarship or any otherCollege funded scheme.


Financial Help for Higher Education StudentsEligible students who are studying for their firstundergraduate Degree will not have to pay tuition fees up front. A loan is available from the Government tocover the cost of tuition so you don’t have to find themoney to pay your tuition costs before or while you arestudying. You won’t have to start repaying the loan untilyou are earning over £21,000 a year.

The loan will also be available to European Unionstudents and part-time students studying at least 25%(30 credits) per year. However, if you already hold anHonours Degree or another qualification at the samelevel, you will not qualify for this loan.

What Money is Available?

You can apply for the following from the Government:

● A Tuition Fee Loan to cover your tuition fees in full

● A Maintenance Loan for living costs such as rent (full-time students only)

● A Maintenance Grant if your household income is less than £42,620 (full-time students only)

● Extra financial help if you have a disability orchildren/adults depending on you (this is availablefrom your local authority or your college/university)

Tuition Fee Loan

You can get a Tuition Fee Loan of up to:

● £9,000 for new full-time students

● £6,750 for part-time students

The Tuition Fee Loan is paid directly to the college/university.

Maintenance Loans

The maximum Maintenance Loan for a new student is:

● £5,740 if you live away from home and study at a university or college outside London

● £4,565 if you live at home

● £6,820 if you spend a year of a UK course studying abroad

Full-time students can get a tuition fee loan of up to £9,000


Maintenance Grants

You can also apply for a Maintenance Grant if your familyincome is below £42,620. You can get:

● £3,387 if your household income is £25,000 or under

● £50 - £3,387 if your household income is between£25,000 and £42,620

Maintenance Loans and Grants are paid directly intoyour bank account at the start of each term, onceyou’ve registered onto your course.

For more useful information and/or to apply:

www.gov.uk/student-finance

www.sfengland.slc.co.uk

www.thestudentroom.co.uk/studentfinance

Other Schemes

Access to Learning Fund

This is a government funded scheme, given to universitiesand colleges to help students facing hardship, by givingthem extra financial support to access and remain inHigher Education. It can help towards paying forchildcare, books, travel and other necessities.

Special Support Grant

You must be a full-time student. Part-time and EUstudents can’t apply for this grant.

You may get a Special Support Grant instead of aMaintenance Grant if you get or qualify for:

- Income Support

- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

- Housing Benefit

- The housing element of Universal Credit

The amount you get is the same as the MaintenanceGrant, but it won’t reduce the Maintenance Loan youcan get.

You may get the Special Support Grant if, for example,you’re a lone parent or have certain disabilities.

Loans

A Career Development Loan is a bank loan designed tohelp you pay for work-related learning. The loans areavailable to learners aged 18+ and can be used to supportfull-time, part-time or distance learning courses for up totwo years, as long as the course leads to a trade,occupation or profession. You don't have to start payingyour loan back until one month after you stop training.You then repay the loan to the bank over an agreedperiod at a fixed rate of interest.

You can apply to borrow anything between £300 and£10,000 to help you fund up to two years of learning (or up to three years if the course includes one year of relevant practical work experience).

For further details about CDLs please visitwww.gov.uk/career-development-loans or Tel: 0800 58 55 05 to speak to an advisor.

Extra Help

Extra help is available for students with disability, mentalhealth condition or specific learning difficulty, and forstudents with children or adult dependants.


There are many different ways of accessing degree levelprogrammes and our entry requirements take account of this.

HNDs and Foundation Degrees

For our HNDs and Foundation Degrees we normally ask for 160 UCAS points as demonstrated by:

● BTEC National Diploma or Certificate in a relevantsubject

● A Level profile showing a competent performance inat least two subjects with supporting GCSEs at gradesA-C

● Access to Higher Education Diploma

● Other relevant Level 3 qualifications e.g. NVQ 3 orAdvanced Diploma

● Mature student with extensive work experience and/orrelevant professional qualifications.

Degrees

At Merrist Wood College we offer a number ofprogression or ‘top up’ Degrees. These follow on fromour HNDs and Foundation Degrees and will give you thefull BA (Hons) or BSc (Hons) qualification. You will beexpected to complete the HND or Foundation Degreebefore you can progress on to the full degree.

Additional Requirements

In addition to the above, you may be asked for subject-specific requirements, such as experience in working withanimals for Animal Management or a suitable level ofriding ability for Equine Management. Please check theprogramme page on the College website for full detailsof the entry requirements.

Mature Students

We welcome applications from mature students (over 21years old) with relevant professional qualifications and/orextensive work experience in their chosen subject areaand consider each application on an individual basis.

Access to Degree Level Programmes

Developed with support from universities, Access to Degree Level Programmes provide a nationallyrecognised, non A Level route to university or HigherEducation. They are specifically designed for maturereturners to education, who have spent time inemployment or bringing up a family and can be studiedfull or part-time.

Access programmes have few formal entry requirementsbut provide a thorough grounding in the knowledge andstudy skills needed to succeed at this level. Your lifeexperience will also be valuable and taken into account.

We offer Access to Degree Level Programmes atGuildford College in some subjects.

At Guildford College we also offer over 25 A Levelsubjects in a wide range of subjects.

See our website www.merristwood.ac.uk for up to date information including entry requirements.


At the last Ofsted inspection, Merrist Wood College’sresidential provision was rated as “outstanding” in all fiveareas inspected: Overall Effectiveness of the Provision,Outcomes for Young People, Quality of Service,Leadership and Management and Safeguarding.

If you don't live in Guildford or the surrounding areas, butwant to study at Merrist Wood College we can help youto arrange accommodation. Where you live is a reallyimportant part of your life as a student and a good homewill help you settle into student life quickly and succeedon your course. Guildford is an excellent place to live andstudy.

You can choose between living on site in the Halls ofResidence, or locally with a family in HomestayAccommodation.

Halls of Residence

Woodlands and Cobbett are our halls of residence, onsite at Merrist Wood College. With just over 100 residentson our picturesque country campus, Merrist Woodprovides a supportive community for students livingaway from home.

The Halls of Residence at Merrist Wood consists of singlestudy bedrooms with shared showers, toilets and sittingroom facilities. WiFi and/or a computer network point isalso available in every bedroom.

Homestay Accommodation

In Homestay accommodation you'll be treated as muchas possible as one of the family. You will be invited to jointhe family in having breakfast and an evening meal(included in the cost) and will have a bedroom with aprivate study area, access to a bathroom and laundryfacilities.

For further details or to make an application, please callthe Accommodation Office on Tel: 01483 884093 or884038 or Email: [email protected]


Merrist Wood College has received a glowing report from the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) - theindependent body that monitors standards and quality in UK higher education.

Overall Judgements

The maintenance of the academic standards of awardsoffered on behalf of degree-awarding bodies andawarding organisations meets UK expectations

The quality of student learning opportunities meets UK expectations

The quality of the information about learningopportunities meets UK expectations

The enhancement of student learning opportunitiesmeets UK expectations.

Areas of Good Practice

Effective staff engagement in continuous professionaldevelopment enhances the quality of teaching andlearning and is valued by students

The management and support of work-based learningthat ensures students' access to good-quality learningexperiences

The dedicated management and resourcing of highereducation which provides effective oversight and astructure for enhancement.

The full report can be accessed on our websitewww.merristwood.ac.uk


The College is pleased to welcomestudents from all over the world. We currently have students from over 90 different countries

The Guildford College Group is pleased to welcomestudents from all over the world. We currently havestudents studying with us from over 90 countries.International students can study university level coursesat either Guildford College or Merrist Wood Collegedepending on their chosen subject.

The Colleges’ Higher Education courses have an excellentreputation and we have close links with many universitiesin the UK. The main benefit of studying at a collegecompared to a university is that you get more teaching,tutorial support and pastoral assistance and the tuitionfees are more competitive. The qualification andcertificate provided by our partner universities is thesame whether you study at Guildford College, MerristWood College or at the university.

International Services

Our dedicated International Centre provides a widerange of services including: airport transfer, induction andorientation programme, accommodation arrangements,support letters for banking and health serviceregistration, welfare support and a regular activityprogramme.

Entry Requirements and Language Support

Our IELTS entry requirement is a minimum of 6.0 orequivalent (as specified on the Home Office SELT list).For international students studying full-timeprogrammes, English language support classes areavailable if required. International students must choosea full-time programme studying a minimum of 15 hoursper week. Part-time degree programmes do not meetthe visa entry requirements and cannot be studied bystudents on a Tier 4 Visa.

Access to Degree Level (Foundation Year)

Our Access Diploma (Foundation Year) is designed asa one year preparation programme for Degree Level. Formore information see our International Student Guide orour website. You will also need to discuss your suitabilitywith the International Centre. In addition to your chosenAccess subject you will improve your English skills, learnstudy and research methods, cultural and workorientation and personal development.

International Fees

A separate fee scale applies to international students.International fees will apply based on your permanentcountry of residence and your visa status. If you are aninternational student and would like more informationabout fees, contact our International Centre.

Visas

UK Visas and Immigration has rated the GuildfordCollege Group as a “Highly Trusted Sponsor” on their Tier4 list of Registered Sponsors. Our sponsorship licencenumber is JWVC76VJ7. Once we have processed yourapplication and received the full tuition fees for your firstyear of study we will issue a Confirmation of Acceptancefor Studies (CAS) number. You can then apply for a Tier 4General Student Visa to obtain entry clearance to the UKfor studies. The fee for the CAS will be paid by GuildfordCollege.

More Information

For more information contact the International CentreTel: +44 (0)1483 44 86 90Fax: +44 (0)1483 44 86 89Email: [email protected] visit: http://international.guildford.ac.uk/Home.aspx


The National Student Survey

The National Student Survey (NSS) is a high-profilecensus of nearly half a million students across the UK,which has been conducted annually since 2005.

Aimed at mainly final-year undergraduates, it gathersopinions from students about their experience of theircourses, asking them to provide honest feedback onwhat it has been like to study on their course at theirinstitution. It is an influential source of public informationabout Higher Education and gives students a powerfulcollective voice to help shape the future of their courseand their university or college.

The NSS asks 23 questions, relating to different aspectsof the learning experience, including one questions aboutoverall student satisfaction and one question aboutsatisfaction with the Students’ Union. Students are alsogiven the opportunity to make positive and negativecomments about their learning experience.

In 2013/14 our learners responded as follows:

Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education(DLHE)

The Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education(DLHE) survey asks leavers from Higher Education whatthey are doing six months after graduation. About threequarters of leavers complete the survey.

In 2013/14 our leavers responded as follows:

92% of our graduates are either working or studying

81% of our graduates said that their experience preparedthem well for employment

2015 2014 2015 AverageResults Results for Further% Agree % Agree Education

institutions

The teaching 89 86 85on my course

Assessment 84 79 77and feedback

Academic 84 85 81support

Organisation 78 76 72& management

Personal 85 86 81development

Overall 84 83 80satisfaction

The 54 45 57Students’ Union

92% of ourgraduates are

either workingor studying


ApplyingFull-time Programmes

Applicants for full-time HND, Foundation Degree orDegree programmes should apply through UCAS (theUniversities and Colleges Admissions Service). Thisincludes students already at Merrist Wood College.

Step 1: ApplyApply online at www.ucas.com. Alternatively, contactUCAS Tel: 0871 46 80 468 or write to CustomerServices, UCAS, Rosehill, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham,Gloucester GL52 3LZ. To ensure your application isprioritised, complete and return the UCAS applicationform on or before 15 January in the year you intend tostudy. Late applications can be made until 30 June in theyear you intend to study, but will not be prioritised. Afterthis date you should apply through the UCAS clearingsystem or direct to Merrist Wood College (see part-timeapplication process).

Step 2: InterviewWe will contact you to ask you to attend an interview,where you can meet your tutor and tour the College.

Step 3: OfferYou will receive a conditional offer, unconditional offer ora rejection from UCAS. We will contact you with anyfurther information and advice on an alternative courseof action.

Step 4: EnrolMost programmes enrol during August and earlySeptember but some courses enrol throughout the year.You will be sent a joining pack and will be invited in toenrol or asked to do this by post.

Part-time Programmes

Applications for part-time HND, Foundation Degree,Degree or Professional programmes should be madedirectly to Merrist Wood College.

Step 1: ApplyApply online at www.merristwood.ac.uk. Alternatively,contact us on Tel: 01483 88 40 40 or write toInformation, Admissions and Careers Team, MerristWood College, Worplesdon, Guildford, Surrey GU3 3PE.It is advisable to apply early.

Step 2: InterviewYou will receive notification of a date and time to attendan interview. This will give you the opportunity to askspecific questions about the course.

Step 3: OfferYou will then receive a conditional or unconditional offerfrom the College or a rejection and advice on analternative course of action.

Step 4: EnrolMost courses enrol during August and early Septemberbut some programmes enrol throughout the year. Youwill be sent a joining pack and will be invited in to enrolor asked to do this by post.


Sophie StoreyCourse: Equine Management BA (Hons)

Sophie recently completed theHigher National Diploma in EquineManagement and graduated with aDistinction in the subject. She hasnow progressed on to study the BA(Hons) in Equine Management atMerrist Wood College.

Sophie showed great dedication toher course, despite having to travelfrom Cowden in Kent to attendCollege each day. This wasacknowledged at last year'sGraduation and AchievementCeremony when her tutornominated her for the 'MerristWood College Higher EducationOutstanding Achievement Award'.


Ashley DartCourse:Golf Management Degree

Ashley always wanted a career inthe golf industry and wasrecommended to come to MerristWood by a friend, so he came foran open event and decided toapply. On his course Ashley playedin a Uni team league which meanthe got to travel and play golf whichreally helped develop his golf skills.

“The lecturers are the best thingabout the College. The LRC is greatand the staff are really helpful withgreat books and resources.”

Ashley graduated with a first for hisBA (Hons) programme. He iscurrently working as an AssistantPro at Merrist Wood Golf Club andhopes to become Head Pro at aprestigious golf club one day.


As a degree level student, you have the opportunity to take a key role in the quality assurance andenhancement of your programme and the College’s degree level provision in general. Whilst at College, you will have the opportunity to provide feedback through the following activities:

Becoming a Student Representative

By becoming a Student Representative and attendingmeetings and forums, you have the chance to directlyinfluence how your programme is delivered and shapeyour learning experience.

The role of the Student Representative is to:

● Collect the views of students, identify student issues,and to share student issues with College staff

● Provide a link between students and staff and tonegotiate on behalf of the students

● Determine any issues that you should raise at FacultyForum meetings or other meetings on their behalf.

At the beginning of each academic year, StudentServices organise the election/appointment of HEStudent Representatives and Student ParliamentRepresentatives.

Activity

Boards of study/programme committee meeting

Student staff consultative committees/focus group

Faculty forum

Higher Education faculty forum

Student parliament

Student conference

Module/course review

The National Student Survey (NSS)

Explanation

A meeting where staff and student representatives discuss key aspects of the programme. These take place at least twice a year.

A meeting between one member of staff and all students on theprogramme where they will give feedback.

A meeting between the Director of your Faculty and all studentrepresentatives (higher education and further education) where they will discuss general, cross-college issues.

A meeting between the Head of Higher Education and higher education student representatives where they will discuss general, cross-college issues.

A meeting between senior management, the Principal and StudentParliament representatives from across all three Colleges (GuildfordCollege, Merrist Wood College and Farnham College)

An annual conference where students from across the College’s gather to provide feedback to senior staff from across all faculties and departments.

All students are asked to complete a review of an individual module or course once it has finished. The feedback enables the staff to improve the module for future delivery.

Final year students (not top-ups) will have the opportunity to complete the NSS.

The Degree Level Student Engagement Page

All degree level students have access to a Moodle page thatprovides essential information about their programme:

This includes:

● Minutes of meetings

● Reports from external examiners

● Annual reviews of programmes (where available)

● Information on reviews of the College by the QualityAssurance Agency

● The College’s annual Higher Education Self-Assessment Report


Animal Behaviour and Welfare Foundation Degree FdSc

Animal Science Foundation Degree FdSc

Companion Animal Behaviour and Management Foundation Degree FdSc

Zoological Animal Behaviour and Management Foundation Degree FdSc

Animal Behaviour and Welfare BSc (Hons)

Animal Management BSc (Hons)

Equine Management HND

Equine Management BA (Hons)

Golf Management Foundation Degree FdA

Golf Management BA (Hons)

Sport (Health & Fitness) HNC/HND

Arboriculture ABC Level 4 Award, Certificate and Diploma

Floristry Higher Diploma/Professional Master Diploma

Sports Turf Management NVQ Level 4

Level 4 Level 5 Level 6



Exciting new Animal Management CentreWide variety of animals including meerkats and red squirrelsRelevant industry experience

Key Facts

Validation:

Subject to Validation byKingston University

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

TBC

Duration:

2 years full-time or3 years part-time.

Entry requirements:

Currently under review,please see website forupdates.

Programme Overview

Investigate the behaviour and welfare ofcompanion and exotic species, supportedby the study of a wide range of species inthe College's Animal Management Centreand in relevant commercial settingsthrough visits. Underpinning theory isdelivered in the classroom. Industrialexperience, assessed through theprofessional development module over two years, will be undertaken in arelated field and will give you invaluableexperience in your specialism with 200hours to be undertaken each year.Possibilities include animal training,welfare organisations or working withinzoological collections.

Modules

Year 1:

Professional development in the workenvironment 1 (30 credits), pure andapplied animal behaviour (30 credits),animal health, welfare and husbandry (30 credits), practical projects - training,enrichment and welfare (30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Year 2:

Professional development in the workenvironment 2 (30 credits); investigativeproject (30 credits); animal and humaninteractions (30 credits); plus one optionfrom management, behaviour and welfareof captive wild animals (30 credits) orbehaviour and welfare of domestic animals(30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Assessment

You will be continually assessed throughcoursework in the form of written andpractical assignments, essays, projectwork, practical skills tests and oralpresentations. Most modules will have 2-3 assignments.

Progression

Top up to a degree in one more year on the Animal Behaviour and Welfare BSc (Hons) at the College.

Careers

You could become an animal trainer,animal keeper or researcher at home or overseas in a zoo, safari park, welfarecentre, animal orphanage, governmentdepartment or educational establishment.


State of the art new teaching facilitiesNew collection of animals in dedicated learning zonesOpportunities for industry experience with local organisations

Key Facts

Validation:


Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

TBC

Duration:

2 years full-time or 3 years part-time

Entry requirements:


Programme Overview

Investigate the behaviour and welfare of companion and domestic species,supported by the study of the wide range of species in the College's AnimalManagement Centre and in relevantcommercial settings through talks anddemonstrations from guest speakers andtrips. Underpinning theory is delivered inthe classroom. Industrial experience,assessed through the professionaldevelopment module over two years, will be undertaken in a related field andwill give you invaluable experience in your specialism with 200 hours to beundertaken each year at a relevantemployer ideally with domestic species.

Modules

Year 1:

Modules are subject to validation butcould include animal health, animalbiology, animal breeding, husbandry skills,animal behaviour, animal welfare andpersonal and professional development

Year 2:

Modules could include comparative animal physiology, applied animalnutrition, personal and professionaldevelopment and an investigative researchproject conducted over the academic yearin an area of your choice, ideally at ananimal collection.

Assessment

You will be continually assessed throughcoursework in the form of written andpractical assignments, essays, projectwork, practical skills tests and oralpresentations. Most modules will have 2-3 assessments.

Progression

Top up to a degree in one more year.(There are no science top up programmescurrently available at Merrist Wood butwe have links with other colleges anduniversities to ensure your progression.)

Careers

This course is focused on learnersinterested in working within animalscience related industries such as animalnutrition, animal technology or withinveterinary laboratories.


Exciting new learning environmentExcellent reputation with industryTaught by expert, passionate tutors

Key Facts

Validation:


Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

TBC

Duration:


Entry requirements:


Programme Overview

Investigate the behaviour and welfare of companion and domestic species,supported by the study of the wide range of species in the College's AnimalManagement Centre and in relevantcommercial settings through talks anddemonstrations from guest speakers andtrips. Underpinning theory is delivered inthe classroom. Industrial experience,assessed through the professionaldevelopment module over two years, will be undertaken in a related field andwill give you invaluable experience in your specialism with 200 hours to beundertaken each year at a relevantemployer ideally with domestic species.

Modules

Year 1: Modules are subject to validationbut content could include animal health,animal biology, animal breeding,husbandry skills, animal behaviour, animal welfare and personal andprofessional development

Year 2: Modules could include behaviour & welfare of domestic wild animals,sustainable business, personal andprofessional development and aninvestigative research project conductedover the academic year in an area of yourchoice, ideally at an animal collection.

Assessment


Progression

Top up to a degree in one more year onthe Animal Behaviour and Welfare BSc(Hons) or Animal Management BSc(Hons) at the College.

Careers

This course is focused for learners that wish to work with companion anddomestic species such cats and dogs or set up their own business within theanimal industry.


Exciting new Animal Management CentreNew collection of animals in dedicated learning zonesOpportunities for industry experience with local organisations

Key Facts

Validation:


Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

TBC

Duration:


Entry requirements:


Programme Overview

Investigate the behaviour and welfare ofexotic and zoological species, supportedby the study of a wide range of species inthe College's Animal Management Centreand in relevant commercial settingsthrough visits to local animal collections.Underpinning theory is delivered in theclassroom. Industrial experience, assessedthrough the professional developmentmodule over two years, will be undertakenin a related field and will give youinvaluable experience in your specialismwith 200 hours to be undertaken eachyear at an animal collection or otherrelevant location.

Modules

Year 1:

Modules are subject to validation butcould include animal health, animalbiology, animal breeding, husbandry skills,animal behaviour, animal welfare andpersonal and professional development

Year 2:

Modules could include behaviour & welfareof captive wild animals, animal and humaninteraction, personal and professionaldevelopment and an investigative researchproject conducted over the academic yearin an area of your choice, ideally at ananimal collection.

Assessment


Progression

Top up to a degree in one more year onthe Animal Behaviour and Welfare BSc(Hons) at the College.

Careers

This course is focused for learners thatwish to work in animal collections withinthe UK or abroad in a zoological setting.Students could become keepers, trainersor nutritionists in collections.


State of the art new teaching facilitiesExcellent reputation with industryRelevant industry experience

Key Facts

Validation:

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

D300

Duration:

1 year full-time or2 years part-time.

Entry requirements:

Animal Behaviour andWelfare FoundationDegree at merit orequivalent level, HNDwith a minimum of eightmerits or other relevantqualification. You willneed to be confidentworking with a range ofanimal species and ableto work independentlyand as part of a team.You will need to have atetanus injection priorto commencement ofthe course.

Programme Overview

This programme is designed for students who have already completed aFoundation Degree in Animal Behaviourand Welfare or equivalent qualification. It allows for more in depth specialistknowledge development and theopportunity for research into a chosenfield of study. You will assess animalwelfare and behaviour in a range ofsettings, including farming, zoos, theleisure and entertainment sectors,laboratory and domestic environments.

Modules

Practical and professional skillsdevelopment (30 credits), animalcognition and behaviour (30 credits),advanced animal welfare (30 credits),research project (30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Assessment

You will be continually assessed through assignments, project work, oralpresentations, poster presentations,seminars, group discussions and adissertation. There will also be a smallnumber of exams, for which you will be prepared.

Progression

Continue your studies with a mastersdegree in a range of specialist areas orapply for membership of professionalbodies including the Zoological Society of London, Institute of Biology or theBritish Ecological Society and attendfurther courses.

Careers

You could work at home or overseas in a zoo, safari park, aquarium, wildliferehabilitation centre or welfare centre as akeeper, animal presenter, educator or in anadministrative role; you could become ananimal trainer, or work for a governmentdepartment or educational establishment.


Specific management skills are developed for entry into the animalmanagement industryAccess to local industry establishments International and national professional development opportunities- past students have undertaken work experience in the UK and abroad

Key Facts

Validation:

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

D3N2

Duration:


Entry requirements:

Animal Management orsimilar FoundationDegree at merit orequivalent level, HNDwith a minimum of eightmerits or other relevantqualification. You willneed to be confidentworking with a range of animal species andbe able to workindependently and aspart of a team. You willneed to have a tetanusinjection prior tostarting the course.

Programme Overview

Designed to extend skills and knowledgelearned at Foundation Degree level. Youwill have the opportunity through theprofessional development module toadvance your professional and/oracademic career prospects whilststudying units in business andmanagement related to your industry. You will also be able to extend your animalmanagement training and benefit from arange of industry-related and careerdevelopment opportunities in variouscommercial settings. The dissertationallows you to develop skills and expertisein your chosen field.

Modules

Management principles in practice (30 credits), managing marketing andfinancial resources (30 credits),professional development (30 credits),research project (30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Assessment

You will be continually assessed throughassignments, practicals, presentations,portfolio submission and a dissertation.Assignments in business-related units areexpected to reflect practice in industryand many will use workplace experience.There will also be a small number ofexams, for which you will be prepared.

Progression

Continue your studies with a mastersdegree in a range of specialist areas orapply for membership of professionalbodies including the Zoological Society ofLondon, Institute of Biology or the BritishEcological Society and attend furthercourses.

Careers

You could become a wildlife officer, animal curator, animal researcher orlecturer. Graduates of this course are likely to find employment at manageriallevel in a variety of animal managementoccupations. You could also set up yourown small business, work with a particularspecies or group of animals, pursue acareer in the welfare sector or work in ecology.

One of the largest indoor equine arenas in the South East, stabling for over 40 horses, one outdoor school and a BHS approved centreAccess to weekly equitation lessons Access to seminars, lecture demonstrations and regular events held in our indoor arena.Opportunities to join international study tours Opportunity to carry out subject-specialist research into a particular area of your choosing in the second year.

Key Facts

Validation:

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

224D

Duration:

2 years full-time.

Entry requirements:

160 UCAS points asdemonstrated byrelevant Level 3qualifications. Pleasesee page 9 for moreinformation. Allapplicants mustdemonstrate a suitablelevel of riding ability,assessed by a shortriding test, unless youhold a Pony Club B Testor BHS Stage 2.

Programme Overview

If you’re thinking about studying EquineManagement at higher level, then MerristWood, regarded as one of the topequestrian centres in the south east, is the place to be. This programme bringstogether horsemastership, business andmanagement elements. It offers theopportunity to study practical aspects ofequine studies whilst also maintaining afocus on the development of managerialconcepts relating to the maintenance of an equine establishment.

Work placements will be completedalongside academic modules to ensurethe development of both industry andacademic skills.

Modules

Year 1:

Horse husbandry (15 credits), enterpriseand financial management (15 credits),work experience (15 credits), biologicalprinciples (15 credits), anatomy andphysiology (15 credits), animal behaviour(15 credits), develop a training programmefor a performance horse (20 credits),animal nutrition (15 credits). Total 125 credits.

Year 2:

Research project (20 credits), equineexercise physiology (15 credits), equinesports medicine (15 credits), managementof the performance horse (20 credits),environmental management (15 credits),event management for land basedindustries (15 credits), principles of animalhealth (15 credits). Total 115 credits.

Assessment

You will be assessed through written and practical assignments, practicalobservations, theory papers, learning logs,presentations, portfolio, work with audio,video and case studies.

Progression

Top up to a degree in one more year on theEquine Management BA (Hons), enablingyou to expand your understanding of theindustry and specialise in your chosenarea. Alternatively, you could apply for degrees in related subjects.

Careers

You could become a riding instructor,equine nutritionist, equestrian teacher,equine therapist, or gain employmentwithin the event management sector. You could also work in a yard setting.



One of the largest indoor equine arenas in the south of the country, stablingfor over 40 horses, one outdoor school and a BHS approved centreEvent management opportunities within Merrist Wood to developmarketing and management skillsInternational and national professional development opportunities

Key Facts

Validation:

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

D4N2

Duration:


Entry requirements:

Equine ManagementFoundation Degree atmerit or equivalentlevel, HND with aminimum of eightmerits or other relevantqualification. You willneed considerableexperience of riding andworking with horses.

Programme Overview

This specialist course will enable you toextend your management training inpreparation for a range of roles in theequine industry. You will develop yourmanagement, marketing and businessskills gained from your studies at HND orFoundation Degree Level. You will alsoundertake detailed research and analysisof an issue or area of relevance to theequine industry and be able to takeadvantage of industry-related and careerdevelopment opportunities in variouscommercial settings.

Modules

Management principles in practice (30credits), managing marketing and financialresources (30 credits), professionaldevelopment (30 credits), researchproject (30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Assessment

The majority of assessment is throughcoursework in the form of written andpractical assignments, presentations,portfolio submission and a dissertation.

Progression

Continue your studies with a mastersdegree in a range of specialist areas orapply for membership of professionalbodies including the British Horse Society,International League for the Protection ofHorses, British Equestrian TradeAssociation and British Veterinary Nursing Association.

Careers

You could become a competition yardmanager, equestrian event manager,equine journalist, equine lecturer,veterinary nurse or equine welfare and rehabilitation officer.


Excellent work-based learning opportunities including some of the top golf courses in England and prestigious golf manufacturersSpecialist lecturers including three PGA professionalsOpportunities to work at events such as the BMW PGA Championship

Key Facts

Validation:

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

N292

Duration:

2 years full-time.

Entry requirements:

160 UCAS points asdemonstrated byrelevant Level 3qualifications. Pleasesee page 9 for moreinformation.

All applicants shouldhave been a golf clubmember for a minimumof 2 years. A singlefigure handicap isdesirable but can beachieved during thecourse.

Programme Overview

This programme combines practical andtheoretical elements to prepare studentsfor a competitive golf environment. Studywill involve investigation and research intohow the body functions in terms oftraining for peak performance and how totrain and understand how the mind workswhen playing competitive golf. Golfcoaching will be considered in some detail and should allow students todevelop their understanding of theprinciples of coaching and golf ball flight.The programme includes consideration ofbusiness management skills required bythe industry and prepares students for thework place. Students will also study golfcourse architecture and the application of the rules of golf in tournament play.

Recent guest speakers included JohnDavies (Surrey Golf Union secretary),Stewart Corstophine (BioDynamicsAnalysis), Christy Roxburgh (GolfHypnotherapy), Ian Pearson (PGA Rules ofgolf), Alex Thorne (Mizuno Golf). CallawayGolf and Maui Jim are the official sponsorsand are very supportive of the programmesupporting industrial visits and reducedprices for students from their catalogue.

Modules

Year 1:

Professional development in the workenvironment 1 (30 credits), applied golfcoaching 1 (30 credits) golf coursearchitecture and administration (30 credits), golf business management(30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Year 2:

Professional development in the workenvironment 2 (30 credits), golf playingskills analysis (30 credits), golf retailmanagement (30 credits), applied golfcoaching 2 (30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Assessment

A wide range of skills will be assessedthrough structured question and answerpapers, essays, practical skills tests,assignments, dissertation project, siteappraisal reports, oral and visualpresentations, workplace journalexaminations and event managementdemonstration.

Progression

Top up to a degree in one more year on the Golf Management BA (Hons).Students have also progressed onto golf degree programmes in the USA.

Careers

You could become a golf club manager,golf business administrator, PGA assistant,tour professional, caddy, golf salesrepresentative, golf marketer, custom golfclub fitter, golf/sports training or fitnesscoach, sports researcher/analyst ordeveloper, greenkeeper or work in golfclub production or manufacturing.


Access to event management opportunities to develop marketing andmanagement skillsSpecialist golf library with over 500 books on golfVaried professional development opportunities, with excellent golf linksestablished over 20 years

Key Facts

Validation:

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

N290

Duration:


Entry requirements:

Golf Foundation Degreeat merit or equivalentlevel, HND with aminimum of eightmerits or other relevantqualification. Allapplicants should haveconsiderableexperience in golf, beenan active member of agolf club for at least 2years and will need tobe capable of achievinga single figure handicap.

Programme Overview

Your golf studies at HND or FoundationDegree level will have provided you with asound, practical grounding and given youextensive opportunities to work on yourhandicap and develop your own skills and practical experience. This course isdesigned to continue your professionaldevelopment alongside a business studies programme designed to provideenhanced opportunities for employmentat management level.

Modules

Management principles in practice (30credits), managing marketing and financialresources (30 credits), professionaldevelopment (30 credits), researchproject (30 credits). Total 120 credits.

Examples of topics that could be studiesfor dissertation include how to developgolf skills for children; sports psychology -developing consistent imagery during apre-shot golf routine; biomechanics -studying human movement addressingthe golf ball prior to full swing; sportsinjuries - movement patterns duringpractice to identify stress points; golfcoaching - analysis of methods wheninitiating the backswing for elite golfers;nutrition - considering pre-activity food for elite golfers; golf management -implementing a marketing strategy for corporate golf days.

Assessment

Modules will usually be assessed by twoassignments. The majority of assessmentis through coursework in the form ofwritten and practical assignments,presentations, portfolio submission anda dissertation. Assignments in business-related units are expected to reflectpractice in industry and many will useworkplace experience. There will alsobe a small number of exams, for whichyou will be prepared.

Progression

You could apply for membership ofprofessional bodies including theProfessional Golfers Association orAssociation of Golf Club Secretaries and attend further courses.

Careers

You could become a director of golf;golf official; event organiser forprofessional/amateur national events;manager of a golf club, fitness or leisureclub manager; work with players ontour; adviser or researcher to governingor advisory bodies; golf coursedesigner/constructor; work in corporategolf; golf retail; golf promotion &marketing; golf sales representative;golf holidays/tour organiser.


Excellent teaching by industry professionalsAccess to a wide range of facilities including rugby and football pitches,weights room, sports hall and woodland assault courseOpportunity to gain coaching qualifications

Key Facts

Validation:

Institution code:

GUILD G90

UCAS code:

C600

Duration:

2 years full-time

Entry requirements:

160 UCAS points asdemonstrated byrelevant Level 3qualifications. Pleasesee page 9 for moreinformation.

Programme Overview

If you have a passion for sport, exerciseand wellbeing, an interest in personaltraining or leading exercise classes or inworking directly with clients to help themimprove their health and fitness, then thisis the course for you. It is designed to giveyou the practical and theoreticalknowledge you need for a range ofcareers including becoming a personaltrainer, fitness instructor or sports coach.

You will learn a range of skills in fitnessassessment, exercise prescription and thepractical instruction of clients. You shouldbe prepared to engage in a variety ofphysical activities, both individually andin a team and to lead groups and singleclients. Good communication skills, selfmotivation and previous experience insports and fitness will help you to succeedon this course.

Modules

Year 1:

Anatomy and physiology for sport andexercise (15 credits), nutrition for sportand exercise (15 credits), training andfitness for sport and exercise (15 credits),physical activity, lifestyle and wellbeing(15 credits), health promotion (15 credits),sport and exercise massage (15 credits),sport and exercise psychology(15 credits), the sport and leisure industry(15 credits). Total 120 credits

Year 2:

Personal and professional development(15 credits), work based experience (15credits), injury prevention and treatment insport and exercise (15 credits), functionalexercise physiology (15 credits), sport andexercise rehabilitation (15 credits), sportscoaching (15 credits), event managementin sport and leisure (15 credits), researchproject (20 credits). Total 125 credits.

Assessment

You will be assessed through written and practical assignments, practicalobservations, theory papers, learning logs,presentations, portfolio, work with audio,video and case studies.

Progression

You could move on to degrees in a related subject.

Careers

You could become a fitness coach in the forces or private enterprise or findemployment in sports management,sports development, PE teaching, sportspromotion or management within theleisure, outdoor centre or health andfitness industries.


400 acre estate, including a large woodland area with trees of many speciesSpecialist workshops and dedicated teaching staff with expert knowledgeOver 40 years of arboriculture teaching. Former students now practicethroughout the UK and across the world including Hawaii, New Zealand, the USA, Canada and Australia

Key Facts

Validation:

Duration:

1 year part-time for theAward & Certificate,additional 3 months forthe Diploma

Entry requirements:

You should haveattained at least a Level 2 qualification inArboriculture, or haverelevant workexperience within theindustry

Course Overview

This course is for those who are working inprofessional roles within the industry whorequire technical updating as part of theircontinuing professional development, treesurgery practitioners who wish to qualifyas consulting arboriculturalists and thosewho are already in technical posts incommercial business, or those who areworking for a local authority dealing witharboricultural matters. The Award andCertificate will only be covered in the firstacademic year and on the successfulcompletion of the Certificate there is an opportunity to progress onto theDiploma from September to December.This will be subject to additional costs.

Modules

The Diploma covers; woody vegetationformation and physiology, treebiomechanics, pest, disease and disorders,tree management, tree protection, treeselection and planting, woodlandmanagement and tree related damage tobuilt structures.

Assessment

The assessment involves the completion of given assignments that clearlydemonstrates knowledge andunderstanding of the given subjects; this is collated to complete a portfolio. Thework collected provides evidence and theportfolios will be verified by an externalassessor. Currently there are 2 units tocomplete to gain the Award, 5 to gain theCertificate and 8 units to complete toachieve the Diploma.

Progression

Appropriate for those seeking supervisor,tree inspector and technician posts in theindustry. It is also suited for consultingarboriculturalists, or entry into technicalposts.

Careers

This Level 4 qualification is recognised by the industry as being a goodintermediate stage.

www.abcawards.co.uk


Specially designed floristry studios College nursery producing a wide range of plantsInstruction in professional floristry skills, floral design and businessmanagement by highly qualified tutors with relevant industry experience

Key Facts

Validation:

Duration:

50 weeks part-time for each level.

Entry requirements:

Floristry HigherDiploma: FloristryDiploma Level 3 and/orrelevant professionalqualifications or fouryears work experiencein the industry

Professional FloristryMaster Diploma:Floristry HigherDiploma ICSF or NDSF

You must be working in the industry and havea sufficient level ofliteracy and numeracy

Course Overview

These courses are designed for those whowish to progress to managerial roles withinthe industry. You will learn a variety ofprofessional floristry skills, marketing andmanagement techniques, how to organiseand plan for events and underlyingconcepts in theory.

Modules

Botanical concepts and floristry practices,historical studies for floristry, floral eventpractices, business practices for florists,marketing and promotion practices forflorists, hand tied designs for floristry,technical floristry skills, practical floristrydesigns in a medium, professional designconcepts for floristry, design trends.

Assessment

There are three integrated theoryassignments and externally assessedwritten and practical exams.

Progression

These qualifications will provide you with acomprehensive understanding of the newdesign schema to enable businessdevelopment and employmentopportunities.

Careers

Enter the retail industry as senior staff or a manager, start your own business, or specialise in allied professions, such asteaching, buying, corporate services orevent management. If you already runyour own floristry business the MasterDiploma will help you to develop yourknowledge of the industry and gain newmanagement skills to help you move yourcareer or business forward.

www.nptc.org.uk


Excellent reputation for training in the sports turf industryTaught by industry professionalsClose links with many key figures within the sports turf industry

Key Facts

Validation:

Validated by NPTC

Duration:

15 months part-time

Entry requirements:

Ideally you will alreadyhave a Level 3qualification in sportsturf. You also must be in a position ofmanagement i.e., deputy coursemanager, deputy headgroundsman up tohead groundsman orcourse manager.

Course Overview

This course is suitable for any Deputy,Head Greenkeeper/Groundsman orCourse Manager. Recognising the work pressures of grounds staff, thisqualification is delivered using a blendedlearning approach which includes acombination of online distance learning,tutorials and attendance at Merrist Woodone day a month.

Modules:

Develop procedures for health and safetyin the workplace, plan and manage thecontrol of weeds, pests and diseases,provide vision and direction to others,organise a straight-forward land-basedproject or events, identify areas ofimprovement for yourself and others,manage your own resources andprofessional development, manage abudget, determine policies for thedevelopment of land-based sites, plan,monitor and evaluate the management of land-based sites, facilitate meetings,recruit, select and keep colleagues,manage the use of physical resources.

Assessment:

You will need to complete a portfolio ofevidence and demonstrate practicalcompetence in a range of work-relatedactivities.

Progression:

This course will prepare you for careerdevelopment within the sports turfindustry, as well as possible progression toa degree at a number of universities.

Careers:

Progess in the sports turf industry tomore senior management positions.

www.nptc.org.uk


Other InformationCollege Charter and Policies

The College Charter outlines the quality of service youshould expect from the College and what the Collegeexpects from you. The Student Handbook providesgeneral information about the College and its services(both are distributed during induction). There is a strongcommitment to quality throughout the organisation.

The following documents are available:

● Admissions Policy

● Assessment Policies

● Attendance and Punctuality Policy

● Complaints Policy

● Computing Facilities - policies relating to the use of the College network

● Disciplinary Policy and Procedures (include the College Code and Student Code of Conduct)

● Equality and Diversity Policy and SingleEquality Scheme

● Guidance Policy

● Health and Safety Policy

● Learner Agreement

● Tuition Fees Policy

Fees

On enrolment you must make either full payment, sign abinding agreement to pay by instalments, or provide anauthorisation to invoice form, signed by your employer.Your place on the course is not secure until one of theseactions has been taken. Payment can be made by cash(payable in person and not by post), credit or debit cardor bank transfer.

Tuition fees will not be refunded or waived after thepublished start date of the course, other than in veryexceptional circumstances. Students are liable to pay allexam resit fees. The fee policy and arrangements mayvary for courses delivered in partnership with otherproviders.

All fees and other information are current at August 2015,but are subject to change through government policy orfor unforeseen reasons at the College’s absolutediscretion. Any variations to the published fees will beagreed by the College’s Director of Finance. The feepayable is the fee applicable at the date of enrolment.Government policy on entitlement to fee reductions andtax or benefit rules is subject to change. The informationprinted reflects the College’s understanding at the timeof going to print but you should check with the Collegefor the latest details before enrolment.

How to Pay

Payment can be made by:

● Cash (payable in person and not by post)

● Credit or debit card

● Bank transfer

Enrolment Terms and Conditions

The application form and the enrolment terms set out the basis of your application to be enrolled as a studentat the Guildford College Group and will form part of anyagreement between the Guildford College Group and you.

The Terms set out your rights and obligations, as well as our obligations and limitations of our liability to you.Therefore, it is very important that you read andunderstand these Terms before you complete theapplication form. They can be found on our websitewww.merristwood.ac.uk.


Disclaimer

Every care has been taken to ensure that the information in this prospectus is accurate at the time ofprinting. The College undertakes all reasonable steps toprovide educational services in the manner set out in thisprospectus and in any further documents issued to you.Programmes, facilities and other arrangements areregularly reviewed and can be subject to change. The fees and financial information in this prospectus arecorrect at the time of publication but may be subject tochange - you should check with the College for the latestdetails before enrolment. All student acceptances areprovisional in the first instance. The College does notintend by publication of this prospectus to create anycontractual or other legal relation with applicants,accepted students, advisers or any other person.Registration at the College is on the understanding thatthe College Management cannot accept responsibilityfor the consequences of any errors or omissions. TheCollege reserves the right to cancel, suspend, modify orchange programmes, facilities, services or venues in anyway and cannot accept legal or financial liability arisingas a result. Facilities, terms and conditions may varywhere courses are offered in partnership or associationwith other organisations. You should check details withthe relevant organisation before enrolling.

Freedom of Information

The College complies with the Freedom of InformationAct 2000, which promotes openness and accountabilityacross the public sector, by requiring all public authoritiesto make information available proactively, through apublication scheme. For more information write to the Executive Director of HR and OrganisationalDevelopment or Email [email protected] note that information requests may be subject to an administration fee.

Insurance

The College cannot accept responsibility for loss ordamage to possessions and property. Students shouldhave insurance cover for their belongings.

Data Protection Act 1998

Information you provide to the College will be passedto the Higher Education Funding Council for England(HEFCE), Skills Funding Agency (SFA) and theEducation Funding Agency (EFA). All are registeredunder the Data Protection Act 1998. Information will alsobe shared with other organisations for the purpose ofadministration, careers and other guidance, statisticaland research purposes, in line with the College’s DataProtection Policy. At no time will your personalinformation be passed to organisations for marketingor sales purposes. From time to time students areapproached to take part in surveys by mail and phone,which are aimed at enabling HEFCE, the EFA and theSFA and their partners to monitor performance, improvequality and plan future provision. Please let us know onyour application/enrolment form, by ticking the relevantbox, if you do not wish to be contacted by HEFCE, EFAand the SFA or their partners in respect of surveys andresearch.

Compliments and Complaints

Merrist Wood College is committed to providing high quality services and continuous improvement.Comments, concerns, complaints and compliments are an important and valuable source of informationenabling us to improve our service to you. A complaintsprocedure is available from your personal tutor/mentorand on the College website under Charter and Policies.The procedure is made available during induction toinform you of what to do if you wish to make a complaint.In the first instance make an approach to the area withwhich you have a problem, to allow them to resolve it. Ifyou are dissatisfied once you have exhausted the process(which is explained in the procedure), you may appeal tothe Principal for a final decision. To provide feedbackplease Email: [email protected]


The College is committed to achieving equality ofopportunity for all students studying at the College and celebrates the diversity of the College community.

Equal Opportunities PolicyMerrist Wood College passionately believes in equalityof opportunity for all and is committed to promotingequality of opportunity for students and staff.

The College encourages and supports a society in which:

● People’s ability to achieve their potential is not limitedby prejudice or discrimination

● There is respect for and protection of the dignity andworth of each individual

● Each individual has an equal opportunity to participatein education and training

● There is mutual respect between groups based onunderstanding and valuing of diversity and on sharedrespect for equality and human rights

● Everyone is treated fairly with regard to procedures,assessments and choices and encouraged to achievetheir learning aims.

Widening Participation PolicyMerrist Wood College is committed to WideningParticipation and aims to:

● Increase and widen participation to meet the educationand skills needs of young people, adults and employersin response to local, regional and national prioritieswhilst promoting equality and celebrating diversity.

● Continue to work towards an increase in the numbersand proportions of Higher Education (HE) entrants tothe College from groups currently under-represented inits student profile.

● Help to ensure that all students, regardless ofbackground, have access to appropriate advice and support to enable them to reach the highest levels of achievement.

● Help stimulate the desire of students to participate in HE by raising aspirations.

ConfidentialityYour personal information will only be shared with otherswho need to know in connection with your education, inaccordance with the Data Protection Act.

Additional Learning SupportSupport is provided in different ways, including dyslexiatutors, visual and hearing specialists and signers,advocacy, support for students with Aspergers,notetakers and learning support assistants. You may need:

● Specialist support

● Help ‘on programme’ within the group

● Extra 1:1 sessions

● Special equipment

● Adaptation of materials

Special exam arrangements could also be available. This could be in the form of extra time, use of a wordprocessor, a scribe, modified exam papers, rest breaks, a separate room or someone to read the paper to you.The College must provide evidence that this is necessaryand you may need to be assessed. Let us know as soonas possible so that we can request concessions with the appropriate exam board.

There is also funding for certain students to access the Additional Learning Support Team. ALS providessupport for a variety of learning difficulties and/ordisabilities. Please let us know any support needs youhave before coming to the College or applying for acourse. You will be assessed for eligibility. For moreinformation Tel: 01483 88 40 17.

Getting Around the CollegeMost teaching takes place at ground floor level and inother areas the College has lifts to upper floors andaccessible toilets. Please contact us if you have accessrequirements so that we can be prepared and help to support you.

CateringIf you have any special dietary requirements pleasecontact the Catering Manager to discuss yourrequirements or to find out more information aboutingredients and alternatives. Tel: 01483 88 40 83.

Tel: 01483 88 40 40 Email: [email protected] Wood Holly Lane Worplesdon Guildford Surrey GU3 3PE

www.merristwood.ac.uk

This prospectus can be made available in other formats.

merrist wood college degree level programmes 2016:17

Documents