Oxford International College Brighton

OIC Brighton prioritises happiness and wellbeing in everything it does. A dedicated wellbeing centre houses the counsellor and medical team to support student health and wellbeing, and the college counsellor is available for appointments. The Life Skills programme (PSHE) covers wellbeing, healthy relationships, health and economic education, and develops self-esteem, critical thinking and respect for others. The curriculum supports personal development and aims to promote inclusion, equality, and belonging (EDIB) across the student community.

OIC Brighton has a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Policy. It recognises students with SEND and uses a four‑tier framework: Universal (Tier 1), Targeted (Tier 2) with an Individual Education Plan (IEP), Specialist (Tier 3), and an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) at Tier 4 with annual reviews. The SENCo coordinates assessment and planning, writes IEPs for Tier 2 and above, and works with teachers to adapt teaching and the curriculum. Examinations arrangements and support are considered for SEND, including EHCPs, with processes for adjusting provision. The Curriculum Policy confirms support for SEN and EAL needs through specialist teaching and targeted provision.

OIC Brighton has an English as an Additional Language (EAL) Policy to ensure that all students for whom English is not the first language have access to the full range of subjects and opportunities and an equal opportunity to realise their academic potential. The EAL department provides high‑quality EAL provision across the curriculum and liaises with subject teachers to embed language development and monitor progress. All international students undergo pre‑arrival assessment using the Oxford Placement Test (OPT), and IELTS qualifications are accepted for entry. EAL progression includes Cambridge Preliminary for Schools (Year 9), IGCSE ESL and English Language and Literature (Years 10–11), IELTS (Years 12–13), with the Academic English Pathway and GCSE English language support described where relevant.

Mental wellbeing is embedded in the college's wellbeing framework. The dedicated wellbeing centre hosts a Counsellor and medical team, with the counsellor available for appointments. The school emphasises practical strategies to manage academic stress, including organisation, routine, mindfulness, physical activity, seeking support, and screen‑time management as part of the wellbeing programme (OICB ROCKS). A Strategy Tutor provides ongoing guidance and reassurance to students as part of a supportive pastoral structure.

OIC Brighton has a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy with a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSL, and all staff are trained in safeguarding and online safety. The policy is updated at least annually and outlines roles, safer recruitment, record‑keeping, and multi‑agency working, including reporting concerns to local authorities when required. The safeguarding framework covers online safety, anti‑bullying, and protection of students, including those with SEND, with clear procedures for disclosures and allegations. The college emphasizes a whole‑college approach to safeguarding and a strong governance oversight of safeguarding arrangements.