ID Cards - why?

· By Myfanwy Huges

Upon returning to the college for the new academic year, students were faced with a college policy which requires all students to have their ID cards visibly shown with a lanyard or clip.

The new rule was met with much resistance from the second years in particular, unaccustomed to the rule. “Why do we have to wear them? What purpose do they serve?” was a question asked by many.

Sandeep Gill, Security Manager of the College since January, was one of many involved in the implementation of this policy. “It was a collective decision. We had recommendations from the police, as well as Chris Hope-Evans (Student Support Manager) and the Principalship”.

“Some incidents last year with non-students on the site” prompted the college administration to put the rule into effect, said Gill. “On such a large site with over 4,000 students, as well as the various entrances, it is difficult for commissionaires to challenge students if they aren’t meant to be on site”.

Chris Hope-Evans added to Gill’s explanation: “This is to safeguard everyone; it keeps out people who may want to enter college for bad reasons, like stealing or fighting”.

However, some students and staff have commented that these reasons have not been properly communicated to them. “There is a possibility that wearing ID is necessary, but the reason behind this hasn’t been properly explained” said a lecturer. “The practicality of implementing such a policy onto more than 4,000 students is unworkable”

He was also rather adamant that the policy should be scrapped. “Without further explanation, what is the point? If students don’t see the justification they won’t see why they should wear them”.