There's lots to offer across our campuses
Of course we have great learning and teaching environments - but we also have a range of facilities to help you make the most of your college experience.
Like lots of great places to grab something to eat or drink, hair and beauty salons for some top-to-toe pampering and state-of-art fitness suites which don't have the same hefty fees as your average gym membership.
Then of course there's the more boring - but still essential - things to consider like where to park your car or get quick access to cash.
Whatever you need, we've got it covered.
The College Day
- Our campuses are open from 8am each day during term time, with first morning classes starting at 9am.
- College campuses are public buildings, so there are always non-students using the facilities throughout the college day.
- Students can access a free breakfast in our campus refectories between 8.30am and 11.30am.
- Classes are generally timetabled between 9am – 4.30pm with a 15 minute break in the morning as well as a lunch break.
- Most classes are either 55 minutes or 1hr 50 minutes long.
- You will get a minimum of 55 minutes for lunch. You can bring your own lunch or alternatively, our refectories generally serve lunch between 12 and 2pm including free soup and a roll for all students.
- Each campus has many ‘breakout spaces’, where you can sit, chat or study with friends in between classes. Students are also encouraged to use the outdoor spaces on campus.
- Full time students will generally have 16 hours of classes per week. If your course involves a work placement, this will be in addition to the 16 hours. (Apprentices follow a different timetable. You should check with your Curriculum Manager/Appenticeship Officer)
- Where possible a full time course will be timetabled over 3 days but you may be attending college over 4 days. Please be prepared to flex any other commitments to accommodate your timetable.
- When on campus, you are expected to behave in an appropriate manner at all times
What's available on-campus
Cash Machines
You can find a cash dispenser just outside the main entrance to the Falkirk Campus. If you’re based at our Alloa Campus, nip across the road to the cash dispenser located at Asda.
Food & Drink
Our refectories offer a range of delicious meals to keep you going all day from breakfast rolls, soup and sandwiches to main meals and light snacks. There are also well stocked vending machines at all campuses.
Gallery
If you're looking for something a bit special try the Gallery Training Restaurant at our Stirling Campus.
Learning Resources
Our Learning Resource Centres will provide you with access to modern, well-resourced facilities at our three main campuses in Alloa, Falkirk and Stirling. Find everything you need to support your studies.
Quiet Rooms
We have quiet rooms available on campus for those who require a spiritual, physical or mental space for peace. Quiet rooms are available at the Alloa Campus (Room A205), Falkirk Campus (Room F1.913) and Stirling Campus (Room S1.13). The quiet rooms are open access and there is no need to book.
Parking
Free parking is available at all campuses. However, spaces are limited and it may be worth considering alternative methods of getting to the college such as public transport, cycling or walking.
Salons
Looking good is easy at Forth Valley College. You can access a wide range of hair and beauty treatments at our state-of-the-art training salons located in our Alloa and Falkirk Campuses.
Sport & Fitness
We offer state-of-the-art fitness suites at our Alloa, Falkirk and Stirling Campus. Each one is packed with the latest cardiovascular and resistance machines to help you get fit and stay in shape.
The FVC Student Learning Experience
- State of the Art Campus and Digital Resources: Depending on the course you study, your learning will take place in a combination of classrooms, workshops, salons, studios and labs as well as some online learning. FVC uses the ‘Moodle’ Virtual Learning Environment and Microsoft Teams to support your learning. You will also get access to FVC Mobile app content that holds your Student ID card, as well as other key information. FVC is also introducing immersive Virtual Reality Learning Environments and Augmented Reality Interactive activities, to really bring your learning to life.
- Life and Work Skills You will take part in Project Based Learning that reflects the technical knowledge, life and work skills required to succeed. Simulated Environments will develop your understanding of the workplace and the critical skills that are needed. When appropriate to your learning, you may be offered industry and real world site visits, activities, excursions and work experiences.
- Supportive Community: During your induction to college, College staff will explain the different ways your course will be taught and you will be shown how to access your course content online in our Moodle Virtual Learning Environment, campus or e-books library and Microsoft Teams platforms. When you start, you will be invited to complete our FVC Digital Skills Discovery Tool to ensure you are confident in using the digital platforms used across the College. You will be given opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, activities and share your learning experiences with your peers.
- Personalised, Flexible Learning: In addition to the classroom lecturer instruction you receive, you can also study online with a computer, tablet, and mobile device. Web based learning materials will allow you to learn outside the classroom at a time that suits you best.
FV Student Association
Make the most of your time at college…
Make memories for years to come by getting involved with our Student Association.
All our students are automatically members of the Forth Valley Student Association. What does this mean for you? It means an opportunity to really throw yourself into the social aspects of college life and have some fun. It also means opportunities to gain new skills and experience by getting involved in their many activities and events throughout the year. And importantly, it means that you’ll always have someone who will make sure your views are heard and will be on hand to offer support and advice.
