SAFEGUARDING AND WELL-BEING
LOOKING AFTER OUR STUDENTS
At South Shields Marine School, it’s our duty to protect you. Every student’s well-being and safety is our number one priority and we’re committed to offering a space for you to feel safe, secure, valued and respected – because everyone has the right to protection from all forms of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
Whether that’s looking after those who are vulnerable, needing a bit of help, creating a good work-life balance, or those worried about the financial side of studying – we make sure you’re supported in every way possible.
DUTY OF CARE
It’s our staff members’ responsibility to protect young people and vulnerable adults, and we aim to make sure all adults who may have unsupervised access to the above student groups are deemed fit to work with them.
In light of recent legislation, we also know we have a responsibility to safeguard staff and will provide clear guidelines and systems regarding staff responsibilities towards the protection of young people and vulnerable adults.
COUNSELLING & MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
The College Counselling Service is here to help you. Whether you’re struggling with stress from college, or unrelated problems, we offer one-on-one, confidential counselling from our qualified counsellor. They can help with crisis points or longer term problems, and can refer you onwards or help you access specialist help.
DR WINTERBOTTOM HALLS OF RESIDENCE
Your mental health and well-being is vitally important to us – we are available 24/7 to support and offer advice, signpost, or just listen. You can arrange an appointment with our Duty Supervisors by emailing or calling using the links at the bottom of the page. You can also drop in to security and ask for the duty supervisor as our team is available 24/7
Our well-being drop-in sessions also run every Monday to Friday from 9am-10pm and 9am-3pm on a weekend in the Interface building, adjacent to the Halls of Residence.
SPORTS
Keeping active is important for your physical and mental health and TCC encourages health and fitness. Why not join the college’s Lifestyle Centre Gym?
South Tyneside is the perfect place for a walk or a cycle, or if you want something a bit more intense you could try watersports or the Ninja Fitness Trail.
If you’re venturing into Newcastle itself, there are a variety of sports you could join including football, basketball, and rugby league or union.
STUDENTS’ UNION
As well as providing students with social activities, our Students’ Union ensures everyone can have a say and acts as an important communication link between students and the college management team. If that isn’t enough, don’t forget our students are entitled to the NUS Totum card, which provides you with a variety of student discounts.
The Students’ Union elects a committee every year, involving a President, Vice-President, and numerous officers from the student body. The representatives work across not just the Marine School, but South Tyneside College, TyneMet College, and Queen Alexandra Sixth Form. If there is something you think can be improved, you can liaise with current representatives – or why not run for a position yourself?
EXTRA CURRICULAR
Having social interaction and taking time for your interests and yourself is vital for your wellbeing, especially as a brand new student. We are committed to ensuring there are options to help every student enjoy their time with us. Our Freshers’ Week has many activities to help break down barriers for new students. We also run a full Enrichment Programme to help you meet new people from all across Tyne Coast College, not only the Marine School.
WORK EXPERIENCE
On many of our Maritime courses you will get hands-on experience. This brings benefits to your wellbeing, such as greater enjoyment of your course, and a sense of confidence in your ability to get a job and perform successfully in your career.
GET SUPPORT
If you’re struggling or there’s something you’d like to learn more about, you can find support and information in these online resources.