Student Guide

Student Guide

2025/26

Everything you need to know about college life, support, and services - all in one place.

Let's go!

Hello!

Whether you're joining us for the first time or returning, we’re excited to begin this new session with you. We're committed to helping you thrive through exceptional learning experiences.

Watch our Principal, Douglas Dickson, share how Dumfries and Galloway College is here to support you every step of the way during your studies.

Índice

Quick Navigation

Hello and Welcome

Your Essentials

Lanyard and ID

Your Community

Your Wellbeing

Live, Study and Thrive

Did you know...

Your Essentials

Looking for your timetable, absence self-certificate or digital ID card? Find this and more in your account.

Your college email will be your student ID number followed by @student.dumgal.ac.uk e.g. 0123456@student.dumgal.ac.uk and your password will have been emailed to you when you enrolled.

Virtual ID

My Account

Calendar

Forgotten Password

You’ll receive a College ID and lanyard in your first week - please wear it at all times on campus, unless it's unsafe during practical activities (and remember to put it back on after). For everyone’s safety, not wearing your lanyard may result in being asked to leave college premises.

Lanyard & ID

Your community

• Student Charter

• Our values and what they mean to you

• Things to remember

• Student Attendance

• Student Association

Student Charter

Our college is a partnership between students and staff, built on mutual respect and shared goals. By adhering to this Charter, we collectively ensure a thriving academic environment where everyone can succeed. Your commitment to these values and responsibilities is crucial in maintaining the integrity and excellence of our college community. Together, we can create a supportive, courageous, and united community that delivers on its promises and empowers every student to reach their full potential. Welcome to our College, where your journey of growth and success begins.

Our Values

Our core values - What our values are and how they shape your time at DGC.

Here for you

College commitments

Student Responsibilities

Act with courage

College commitments

Student Responsibilities

Deliver our promises

College commitments

Student Responsibilities

Uniting to succeed

College commitments

Student Responsibilities

Things to always remember!

• You must always wear your student lanyard.
• You must only smoke/vape outside the building in the designated zones.
• You must adhere to all reasonable requests from staff.
• You must never be under the influence of drugs, alcohol or bring or carry weapons on campus.

A breach in these guidelines could result in the application of the student disciplinary procedure procedure which may result in learner repeating the assessment, withdrawal from certification, or suspension from the college.

If you witness bullying or are being bullied yourself, please let us know. Student support will contact you as soon as possible..

Fire Alarms

A test alarm will sound every Wednesday at 11 am during term time unless otherwise advised. If a non-scheduled fire alarm sounds on campus, please do not ignore this unless advised by a member of staff that it is a test. Follow fire protocol and leave the building safely by the nearest fire exit and head to your appointed safety area.

First Aid

If you or someone else feels unwell or needs first aid, notify the nearest staff member. In the main building, you can also ask at Reception, and they’ll contact a first aider.

Student Attendance

Our Student Behaviour Policy provides clarity of expected levels of behaviour of all college students when undertaking ALL elements of college activities. It will assist college staff to provide an environment that is welcoming to all and is conducive to effective learning whilst promoting and positive, inclusive, and safe learning environment both on campus and online. We count on everyone’s co-operation in following this policy. However, if you do not follow these expectations, you may be referred to the Student Disciplinary Procedure, which could lead to sanctions including potentially exclusion or expulsion from college. For learners under 16 (and vulnerable adults) the college will inform parents/carers of any disciplinary proceedings. For other groups e.g. Apprentices, employers may be informed.

Student Absence

Students should attend all timetabled classes to receive payment for both Bursary and Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA). Attendance is checked every 2 weeks and failure to achieve full attendance each week may result in payment being stopped for one or both weeks. This means if you are marked absent from even one class, you should either cover it with an online absence self certificate, or speak to your lecturer if you think it is a mistake. Payment is also linked to engagement, as determined by the Curriculum Managers.

Register an absence

Student Association

The Students’ Association is here to represent you, support your journey, and help shape your college experience. Run by students, for students - and supported by staff and leadership - it operates democratically to ensure every student has a voice and a chance to get involved.

Honor Gibson

Adam Harvey

Karen McIntosh

SA President Dumfries

SA Vice President Stranraer

SA Vice President Dumfries

Come and say hello!

We are located in the learning zone next to the canteen (Dumfries) & G32A in Stranraer.

Follow, like and get involved...

Follow the SA on social media

Get involved with events and initiatives

More Info

More Info

Want to make a difference? Become a class Rep!

Reps act as a key link between students and staff, helping raise issues, share ideas, and ensure the student voice is heard. Lead Reps take this further by contributing to wider college developments. Becoming a Student Rep is a great opportunity to build leadership, communication, and organisational skills, while making a real difference to your learning environment. You'll gain experience working with staff and peers to create positive change and foster a supportive, inclusive college community. You’ll learn more about these roles during induction.

Lockers

When attending college, it’s a good idea to get a personal locker to keep your belongings safe during the day. Lockers are prioritised in this order:

• Full-time students carrying potentially harmful equipment for practical classes
• Full-time students needing a change of clothing for practical classes
• All other full-time students
• Everyone else

Locker Keys will be available from Reception at either campus, keys are issued by janitorial team in Stranraer and department technicians in Dumfries. A £10 deposit is required when you get your key — this will be refunded when you return it.

Your Wellbeing

• Safeguarding & Contacts

• Spectrum Life

• Student Support Services

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is a fundamental priority in our college, ensuring that all students feel safe, supported, and valued. As a student, it’s important to understand that safeguarding encompasses protecting your well-being, preventing harm, and ensuring your rights to a safe and nurturing environment. You should always feel comfortable reporting any concerns about your own safety or the safety of others to a trusted staff member. Remember, there are designated safeguarding team members at both campuses you can approach, and all reports will be handled with confidentiality and seriousness. Your active participation in fostering a safe and respectful school culture is crucial, as it contributes to a positive and secure learning environment for everyone.

Safeguarding Contacts

Student Services

Student Advisers

Admissions

+ INFO

+ INFO

Educational Support Workers

Student Counsellor

+ INFO

+ INFO

Student Funding

Student Records

+ INFO

+ INFO

Digital Services

For help with college emails, teams, office365, Lapsafe issues, IT logins and connecting to Wi-Fi.

+ INFO

Spectrum Life is a Mental health, digital health and wellbeing solution for you – our student. Spectrum Life provides modern mental health and wellbeing support, enabling us to create impactful, customised solutions for our students. This can be tailored to your needs, offering 24/7 real-time support, overflow services, after-hours care, high intensity counselling.

Find out more

Live, study and thrive

• College Facilities - from the canteen to the gym, we have you covered

• Equality & Diversity

• Geeza Break Sensory Room

College Facillities

Canteen & Cafes

Grab breakfast, lunch, or snacks at our canteens, Zest training restaurants, or the Costa café.

Leisure Facilities

Activities for EveryoneFrom high-energy to low-key, there’s something for all interests and abilities.

Library & Learning Zone

Quiet study spaces with desks and computers are available on both campuses.

Reception & Estates

Reception can help with lockers, first aid requests, and general enquiries. They're your go-to if you're unsure who to speak to.

Transport & Travel

Find out what you need to know about routes, timetables to plan your journey with ease.

Other Facilities

Accessible washrooms and lifts are available on all campuses. Ask staff if you need help finding anything.

Equality & Diversity

At DGC, we celebrate diversity and are committed to equality for everyone. We work hard to eliminate discrimination, harassment, and victimisation while fostering good relations among our staff, students, visitors, and partners. We aim to ensure everyone can thrive, regardless of age, disability, gender, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, or sexual orientation. By promoting a culture of dignity and respect, we help every student and staff member achieve their full potential.

2025 Equality & Diversity Report

Room 1063 (Dumfries)

This is a safe and quiet campus space designed to help you take a breather, relax, and stay calm - especially if you experience sensory overload or need a moment away from busy surroundings. It’s a calm environment where you can recharge and regain focus whenever you need it.

Did you know...

• You can get great student discounts

• We have a FREE student breakfast and soup for lunch

• Join in - Active Campus & Grimdark Gamers

Student Discounts

Being a student in Scotland means you can receive amazing student discounts to help pay for the things you want and need whilst you’re studying. Once you have enrolled at Dumfries and Galloway college and have your college email address, you can begin to access a selection of student discounts from companies such as UniDays and Student Beans.  Discounts are available in a range of areas including, food, travel, clothing, and technology. Brands include Gymshark, Nike, EE, ASOS, Greggs, Dominos, and many more. Sign up for free and make sure you use your college email address.

Find out more

Save yourself the time, let us make the breakfast!

Let us take the stress out of your morning with a selection of tea, coffee, orange juice, cereal, fruit, toast, jam and butter. ALL of our students qualify for a FREE breakfast to start your day! ⏰ Dumfries: 8.30 - 10.15am (Canteen) ⏰ Stranraer: 9 - 10am (Canteen)

Free soup & a roll at lunchtime!

Don’t miss out on a free soup and roll at lunchtime, available at both campuses! It’s a great way to refuel and connect with fellow students during your day. Enjoy this tasty perk as part of your college experience!

Food Bank

Our Dumfries student food bank is located next to the Student Association. Stranraer’s is based in the SA Office. If you are struggling you can pop in & take what you need for free, you do not require any form of referral to access this. If anyone would like to donate to the food bank, donations can be left with the SA or SA office (Stranraer).

Active Campus

Active Campus offers free, inclusive sports and fitness activities for all DGC, UWS, and University of Glasgow (Dumfries) students and staff. Whether you're into recreational games or just looking to stay active and social, there’s something for everyone—badminton, football, pickle ball, and more. Join lunchtime sessions (Mon–Fri) or after-college clubs (Mon–Thurs from 4.30pm). All abilities welcome! Check the board near the gym for updates. mcgeorgec@dumgal.ac.uk to find out more or get involved.

Grimdark Gamers Club

Grimdark Gamers is more than just a tabletop club—it’s a welcoming community for both students and staff to connect, relax, and have fun. Whether you're into strategic battles in Warhammer, the storytelling of Dungeons & Dragons, or exploring other tabletop games, there’s something here for everyone. The club offers painting sessions, one-shots and campaigns, along with workshops for beginners, and plenty of chances to socialise and share ideas. No experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to join in.

Sign-up now!

Contact INFO

We are situated beside the Premier Shop in Dumfries Campus and in room G46 in Stranraer Campus. We are open Monday – Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm and offer appointments at a time suitable to you or you can drop in at any time.

Our services include:

• Career information, advice and guidance on career choices
• Advice on the routes into career including jobs, apprenticeships, training and learning
• Help with CVs, application forms and interviews
• Careers events Insight into the local labour market
• Access to Scotland’s careers web service, My World of Work
• Redundancy support
• Support for parents and carers

Every step you take now is a step into your future. Stay focused and keep believing in yourself.

- Dumfries and Galloway College

Follow the college for important updates

Student Advisers: Based in The Point, Dumfries and G35a, Stranraer studentadviser@dumgal.ac.uk Our Student Advisers are very approachable and are available to give guidance and support on a large range of issues including funding issues, money problems, housing, and any concerns you may have that affect your welfare or wellbeing.

• Provide accessible, high-quality education and resources.

• Offer comprehensive student support services, including academic advising, mental health counselling, and career guidance.

• Maintain an open-door policy for students to discuss their needs, concerns, and suggestions.

Educational Support Workers: Learning Zone, Dumfries and G35a, Stranraer Study Skills self-referrals, access to assisted technology and software, proof reading, exam concessions, support in class.

Student Counsellor: Based in Dumfries campus but travels to Stranraer. Counselling can also be via Teams. Self-Referral available via Student Portal:

Self Refer Here

• Ensure timely and effective communication regarding academic requirements, deadlines, and college events.
• Provide consistent feedback on academic performance to aid in continuous improvement.
• Commit to transparency and accountability in all college operations.

Student Records: Based at the Dumfries Campus. sturec@dumgal.ac.uk Help with completing or accessing online enrolment as well as updating any change of personal details. Student Records also issue College ID cards.

Like, follow and share

Stay in the know by following the Students Association on social media! Our channels keep you updated on events, news, and important information. Don't miss out on opportunities to connect, engage, and make the most of your time at Dumfries and Galloway College.

• Adhere to college policies, deadlines, and academic standards.
• Take responsibility for your educational journey and personal development.
• Provide constructive feedback to help the college improve its services.
• Be in the right place at the right time.

The Estates Team includes Reception, Janitors and Cleaners. Reception would be your first port of call to obtain a college locker (refundable deposit required), to request a first aider and are able to answer many questions if you are unsure who you need to speak to for specific help or issues.At reception you will find help with:

First Aid

Locker Desposits

Health and Safety

Fire Marshalls

Get involved and have fun

Get involved with our exciting events throughout the year, from Therapets sessions to the Above and Beyond Awards. These activities enhance your college experience and help build a supportive community. Join us and make the most of your time at Dumfries and Galloway College!

• Foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students.
• Encourage participation in clubs, societies, and projects.
• Promote respect and understanding among diverse groups within the college community.

Phil Storrier

Safeguarding Coordinator

storrierp@dumgal.ac.uk or via MS Teams

Stuart Clark (Dumfries)

Deputy Safeguarding Coordinator

clarks@dumgal.ac.uk or via MS Teams

Fiona Herron (Stranraer)

Safeguarding Team Member

herronf@dumgal.ac.uk or via MS Teams

Jan Clark (Dumfries)

Safeguarding Team Member

clarkj@dumgal.ac.uk or via MS Teams

Tanja Livingstone (Dumfries)

Safeguarding Team Member

livingstonet@dumgal.ac.uk or via MS Teams

Student Portal Make the most of your college experience with the DGC Student Portal. It’s your one-stop hub for timetables, course content, emails, support, and the latest college news. Check in often to stay organised, informed, and connected throughout your journey at DGC.

• Engage actively in your learning, be prepared and seek help when needed.
• If you are feeling mentally, physically or emotionally unwell, speak to a member of staff.
• Communicate any issues or challenges to relevant college staff promptly.
• If you are worried about your or someone else’s safety, speak to a staff member immediately.

• Uphold academic integrity and encourage critical thinking.
• Support students in taking initiative, whether in research, extracurricular activities, or community service.
• Create a safe space for students to express their ideas and opinions freely.

Student Funding: Based at the Dumfries Campus. studentfunding@dumgal.ac.uk Can help with issues and questions around your EMA, Bursary, Discretionary and Childcare funding. Our Funding Team are unable to help with SAAS funding – please see a student adviser for this.

• Participate in college life and contribute to a positive and inclusive community both in person and online.
• Respect the diversity and perspectives of your peers.
• Work with staff and fellow students and assist with all reasonable requests.
• Keep hands, objects and offensive language to yourself.

Admissions: Based in The Point, Dumfries. admissions@dumgal.ac.uk Admissions can help with your course choices, progression, international admissions as well as UCAS applications.

• Maintain academic integrity in all your work.
• Embrace challenges and strive for personal and academic excellence.
• Report any form of discrimination, harassment, or bullying.
• Utilize the support services provided by the college.

Toilets and Washrooms Toilets and washrooms can be found on both campuses and are essential for college operations and cleanliness. Toilet and handwash areas will be supplied with handwashing and drying equipment and will be regularly cleaned.

Lifts and Access Lifts can be found in both campuses (locations). We would urge people to only use these if essentially e.g. for students and staff with mobility issues.

Digital Services: Based in Learning Zone & first floor, Dumfries Campus. digitalservices@dumgal.ac.uk Lapsafe is the college's Laptop Loan System. This allows students to check out Chromebooks at any time of the day without needing to find a member of staff.

Using a Chromebook

Microsoft Training Centre