STUDENT SUPPORT

Student Support Handbook & Campus Resources

The Cut Fashion Design Academy is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment. The Academy ensures that current and prospective students have access to information regarding housing, health services, campus safety, academic progression, learning support, community integration, and daily life resources in British Columbia. 

1. Housing Assistance & Tenancy Information

The Cut Fashion Design Academy does not provide on-campus housing. 

Housing information is provided to prospective students prior to enrollment, before arrival where applicable, and on an ongoing basis upon request. 

Staff are available to provide general guidance to assist students in locating safe and appropriate accommodation in the Greater Vancouver Area. 

Students may explore: 

Rental Search Platforms 

  • Rental housing websites (e.g., Craigslist, Rentals.ca, PadMapper)

  • Student housing providers

  • Homestay placement agencies

Tenancy Rights in British Columbia 

Students are encouraged to review their rights and responsibilities under the BC Residential Tenancy Act before signing any lease agreement. 

For official tenancy information, visit: 👉 BC Residential Tenancy Branch https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/residential-tenancies 

The Academy provides access to publicly available information only and does not assume responsibility for private housing arrangements. 

Housing-Assistant

2. Health, Safety & Mental Health Services

The Cut is committed to supporting student health, safety, and well-being.


Medical Services

Students may access community-based medical services, including:

  • Walk-in clinics in the Kitsilano and Vancouver area
  • BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) information for eligible students

For non-emergency health advice:

📞 811 – HealthLink BC

For emergencies:

📞 911 – Police, Fire, Ambulance

Mental Health Support

Students experiencing emotional or mental health concerns may access community-based resources:
  • 988 – Suicide Crisis Helpline (24/7)
  • BC Mental Health Crisis Line: 310-6789
  • Crisis Centre BC

These services are confidential and available province-wide.


Campus Facilities & Safety

The Academy maintains studio classrooms and instructional facilities designed to support safe and secure learning. Emergency procedures are reviewed with students during orientation. Evacuation instructions are posted on campus. The Academy maintains emergency response procedures to address incidents affecting campus safety.


Addiction & Overdose Awareness

The Cut recognizes substance use and overdose as public health concerns and promotes prevention awareness. Free Naloxone kits are available at participating pharmacies throughout British Columbia. Information regarding overdose prevention and Naloxone availability is accessible through Government of British Columbia resources.


In the event of a suspected overdose:

  1. Call 911 immediately
  2. Notify campus administration
  3. Follow emergency response procedures

For addiction support resources:

  • BC Centre on Substance Use
  • Overdose Prevention Society

Students may request assistance from campus administration if referral to community resources is required.

3. Academic / Program Progression Support

The Cut supports students in maintaining academic standing and progressing successfully

through their programs.

Instructors and administration monitor attendance and academic performance on an ongoing

basis. Academic progress is formally reviewed at the end of each academic term.

Students must:

  • Maintain minimum passing grades as outlined in their program

  • Meet attendance requirements

  • Complete required competencies and project outcomes

Academic standing categories include:

  • Good Standing

  • Academic Warning

  • Academic Probation

  • Suspension or Dismissal

Students who do not meet progression requirements are notified in writing and provided with

information regarding available support and corrective steps.

Appeal procedures are outlined in the Academy’s Dispute Resolution Policy.

4. Learning Support Services

Learning support services are available to all enrolled students.


Academic Writing Support


Students may receive guidance on:

  • Assignment structure
  • Research and referencing
  • Professional fashion terminology
  • Presentation preparation

Support focuses on skill development and academic integrity.


ESL Support Referrals

Students whose first language is not English may be referred to external English language support providers where appropriate.


Extended Learning Consultations

Students may request additional academic or technical clarification, including:

  • Pattern drafting
  • Garment construction techniques
  • Portfolio development
  • Design refinement guidance

Availability is subject to instructor scheduling and instructional capacity.


External Tutoring Referrals

Where additional support is required beyond institutional capacity, students may be referred to qualified external tutors. Any associated costs are the responsibility of the student.

5. Industry Engagement & Community Integration

The Cut ensures that all students, including international students, are meaningfully connected to the broader fashion industry and creative community.


Industry Guest Speakers


Each academic term, industry professionals may visit campus to share professional insights and career guidance.


Student Showcases & Exhibitions


Students participate in:

  • End-of-term showcases
  • Open house exhibitions
  • Industry critique panels

Internship & Career Connections

The Academy shares:

  • Internship postings
  • Job opportunities
  • Industry events
  • Networking opportunities

All students have equal access to professional engagement initiatives.

6. Orientation Program for New Students

The Cut supports students in maintaining academic standing and progressing successfully

through their programs.

Orientation is designed to support a smooth transition into academic life and includes:

  • Introduction to faculty and staff

  • Review of program structure and academic expectations

  • Complete required competencies and project outcomes

  • Attendance and grading policies

  • Code of Conduct and student responsibilities

  • Health and safety procedures, including emergency protocols

  • Overview of student support services

  • Information on housing resources, tenancy rights, and community resources

  • Studio rules, equipment usage, and campus guidelines

Students are encouraged to attend orientation to ensure they understand academic

requirements, available supports, and campus expectations.

Additional information may be provided throughout the term as needed.

7. Daily Life Information

The following publicly available resources are provided to assist students with daily life

navigation in British Columbia.

Public Transportation

The Cut is located in Kitsilano, Vancouver and is accessible via TransLink bus routes.

Trip planning and fare information:

👉 www.translink.ca

Banking

Major banks in British Columbia include:

  • RBC

  • TD Canada Trust

  • Scotiabank

  • BMO

  • CIBC

Students should contact institutions directly for account requirements.

Childcare

Information on licensed childcare providers and subsidy programs is available through the

Government of British Columbia:

👉 ChildCareBC

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/family-social-supports/caring-for-young-children

Telecommunications Providers

Common telecommunications providers include:

  • Rogers

  • Telus

  • Bell

  • Fido

  • Koodo

Students are responsible for arranging their own services.

Disclaimer:

This information is provided to ensure access to publicly available services and community

resources. The Academy does not directly provide these services but