1. Art and Diseño

International
guide to starting with us
January/February 2015
Contents…
2
Welcome
3
What to do before you arrive
• Online registration
• Term dates
• Important checklist
4-7
Paying Your Tuition Fees
8
Registration
9
Your first week – events schedule
10-19
Meet and greet
12-13
Join our club
14-15
Student Support
24-25
Accommodation
20
New facilities at your fingertips
23
Careers and your employability
19
Things to do in Luton
24-25
Things to do in Bedford
26-27
Things to do in Milton Keynes
28-29
How to find us
30
Meet the International Office
We are in Room F100,
1st Floor of the Campus Centre
Park Square
Luton
LU1 3JU
Welcome…
…to the University of Bedfordshire. We are delighted that you
have chosen to study with us and you can be confident that
you have made a great choice.
You will soon be joining a diverse community of more than 24,000
students from more than 100 countries around the world. Whatever
success means to you, at the University of Bedfordshire our
supportive staff, outstanding facilities and friendly campuses will
give you everything you need to achieve it. We recognise that new environments can take a little getting used to.
That is why we have prepared this guide, which includes everything
you need to know about your first few weeks with us, including
handy checklists, key dates and fun activities to get involved in, both
on campus and in the local area.
As a student of the University of Bedfordshire you have joined a
progressive institution devoted to supporting you and helping you
explore and develop the necessary skills to succeed in your future
career. I hope your time at the University is enjoyable. Welcome!
Bill Rammell
Vice Chancellor
Vice Chancellor
3
What to do before you arrive
What to do before you arrive
Pre-register online (E-vision)
Before you arrive at the University, you should
Pre-register online at: www.beds.ac.uk/sits.
Once complete, please print the document and bring
with you to your first week – this will speed up your
registration on the day.
Before you arrive, you will be allocated a pre-arrival
buddy to help you through your first week at the
University. Your buddy will be a current student who will
give you individual support and be available to meet
up in your first week. If you have not been contacted by
a buddy by 4 September, please visit: www.beds.ac.uk/
buddies, and contact your choice of buddy via email or
via our helpline: +44 (0)1582 743022.
Important checklist
Follow these checklists for a guide on what you need to do before you arrive, what you need to bring with you in your
first week and what you need to do when you arrive.
Before arriving at University
Have you organised and paid for your accommodation? Do you know where to collect keys from?
Have you arranged transport from the airport to campus?
Have you visited: www.beds.ac.uk/registration to find your Registration/Orientation and
Induction details?
Have you started to pre-register online via: www.beds.ac.uk/sits?
Are you ready to pay your Tuition fees when you arrive and have you got sufficient funds to live on?
Have you been contacted by a pre-arrival buddy? If not please visit: www.beds.ac.uk/buddies
4
Don’t forget to pack the documents you require for Registration: Your CAS letter, Passport, Visa, Offer
Letter and originals of your qualifications.
Arrival in the UK
Arrival in the UK
Pre-sessional students should be aim to arrive before the
start of their course on 5 Jan 2015.
If you are not doing a Pre-sessional course you should
aim to arrive in the UK before Monday 9th February
2015 as from day one we have planned exciting social
programme and informative events for you.
You should book your flight to one of the London airports:
Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted or Luton.
It is best, where possible, to try and arrive between 9am
and 5pm, as this will ensure you have an easier journey up
to Bedfordshire.
If you are going to arrive outside these hours please
contact your University Accommodation or landlord to
make sure they are expecting you. University Halls can
arrange bedding for you if needed for a small extra cost. If
you are staying in a hotel or bed & breakfast temporarily
please arrange an early or late check-in if required.
Travelling to your campus from the airport
Please make sure you have checked on your offer letter
whether your course is based in Luton, Bedford or Milton
Keynes campus to plan your onward journey from the
airport to your campus accordingly.
Travelling to campus using public transport
Luton campus
From London Heathrow Airport:
By coach – the National Express coach is the most
convenient way of travelling from Heathrow
to Luton. It departs from the central bus
station between Terminals 1, 2 and 3.
By train – an underground service is available from
Terminals 1-3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their
own separate underground station). Take a
train on the Piccadilly Line to St Pancras
International. From there take a First Capital
Connect train to Luton
From London Gatwick Airport:
By train – take the First Capital Connect train directly to
Luton
Bedford campus
From London Heathrow Airport:
By train – an underground service is available from
Terminals 1-3 (Terminals 4 and 5 have their
own separate underground station). Take a
train on the Piccadilly Line to St Pancras
International. From there take a First Capital
Connect train to Bedford.
From London Gatwick Airport:
By train – take the First Capital Connect train service
direct to Bedford
University Campus Milton Keynes
From London Heathrow Airport:
By coach – the National Express coach is the most
convenient way of travelling from Heathrow
to Milton Keynes.
5
What to bring
Don’t Forget!
As an international student about to move away to university in the UK
the most important things to bring with you are your visa, your passport
and your CAS. You can find everything else when you arrive but there
are some important things that you can do to make moving to the UK
easier. Check out our ‘Top 5’ things to do before you come to UK.
2
Get kitted out
The weather in the UK is likely to be
considerably colder than your home
country so do pack some warm clothes.
Don’t panic though if you have nothing
suitable - the University is very close to the
town centre which is packed with shops
and a market full of clothes at bargain
prices so you won’t get cold. But don’t
forget to bring your warm weather clothes
- the sun shines here too!
6
1
Put a roof over your head
It’s important that you have at least
organised somewhere to stay when you
first arrive. University accommodation will
give you a once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity to live and study with
students from many different backgrounds – many of whom will become
friends for life.
Check out what is available online before
you come and sort out your home away
from home before you leave - that way
you will know where you are going, your
family will know you are safe and it will
mean you can focus on enjoying your first
weeks as a UK student.
www.studentvillagebeds.com
Find out more on page 20
What to bring
3
Essentials
You’ll make loads of new friends at University but photos of family and
friends from home are a great touch! And if you are planning to watch
TV here you’ll need a licence - visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk. And finally,
make sure you have that 100 per cent essential student item, the alarm
clock, that way you can rest assured you won’t miss any of those 9am
lectures!
4
Taking care of yourself
During your first week you should register with our Health Centre.
Please bring details of any vaccinations including any meningitis
vaccinations with you and information about current medication and
allergies. And in the interests of fun and fitness make sure you bring
your sports kit along with you, that way you can make the most of our
fantastic sports facilities at both Luton and Bedford.
5
It’s good to talk
Make sure you can stay in
touch with friends and family
at home so do bring your
mobile phone with you and
make sure that it is set up to
work in the UK. We can give
you a SIM card with your
Welcome Pack and you’ll get
some extra credit the first
time you top up!
For more information please visit:
www.beds.ac.uk/
registration
7
Paying your tuition fees
International student information
Paying your tuition fees
Before you travel to the UK it is vital to ensure that you
have enough money to cover living expenses and fees.
You should not expect that a part-time job will cover these
costs.
To find out more about how to pay your fees, visit our website: www.beds.ac.uk/internationalfees
You would have already paid a deposit of minimum 50%
of your tuition fees and you should pay the remaining fees
before or at registration or set up a payment plan.
Tel: +44 (0)1582 743807/51/52
Email: [email protected]
It may be useful to know that if you pay the total amount
before or at registration, you may be eligible for a
substantial fee discount.
8
For more information or advice please contact the
University’s Finance Office:
Term dates:
International students
Registration
Arrival in
Accommodation:
7– 8 February 2015
Your first week:
9 February 2015
Orientation and
Induction:
9 February 2015 - 13th February 2015
Teaching starts:
16 February 2015
Term one:
9 February 2015 – 20 March 2015
Term two:
13 April 2015 – 5 June 2015
Term three:
5 October 2015 – 11 December 2015
Term dates and important checklist
International student information
Visit: www.beds.ac.uk/aboutus/dates for the full list
of term dates in 2015
There is even more help on hand when you arrive with
the Students’ Union’s Freshers’ Angels.
Emblazoned in blue, the angels are current students
who are there to help you move into halls, show you
around town and introduce you to all that the Students’
Union has to offer.
Before you arrive on campus, be sure to look up your
reading lists via: readinglists.beds.ac.uk, as you may
want to purchase some of the core text books before
you join us.
9
Orientation Schedule
Orientation
Date
9 February 2015
11 February 2015
13 February 2015
Event
Time
Welcome to Bedfordshire
9:00-9:30
Your International Office
9:30-10:00
HTS Compliance
10:00-10:30
Communication Skills
10:30-11:00
Location
Cost
Postgraduate Centre
Registration
12:00-16:00
Level 1 SiD
Games Night
17:00-20:00
PG Centre
Movie Night
17:00-20:00
PG Centre
Supporting You - Supporting Your Learning
9:00-10:00
G101 Lecture Theatre
Luton Campus Centre
Supporting You - Supporting Your Learning
11:00-12:00
JM10
Business School
Student Night
17:00-20:00
PG Centre
LATE REGISTRATION
20 February 2015
Welcome to Bedfordshire
9:00-9:30
Your International Office
9:30-10:00
HTS Compliance
10:00-10:30
Communication Skills
21 February 2015
10
Postgraduate Centre
10:30-11:00
Games Night
17:00-20:000
Day Trip To Cambridge
08:00-17:00
Meet at Park Square
Reception
£5 for travel
Belong at Bedfordshire University
You will get all the support you need at Bedfordshire from
the International Office, Student Information Desk and the
staff in your Faculty. Visit beds.ac.uk/internationalsupport to
find out more...
“I arrived in the UK
and could not believe
how cold it was but the
welcome at the
University was very
warm.”
“I like being so close to
London so I can enjoy
the city life with my
friends without the costs
of living there.”
Li Xiang
BSc Accounting and
Finance
“There is a lot of
support for international
students especially from
the International Office”
Iris Perami
BA(Hons) Public Relations
student
Lilian Chinwe Soribe
BSc Nursing Studies
“I will always say and I will keep saying it. I love the way Bedfordshire deals with International
students.”
Robert Alwell,
MSc Public Health
Everything just clicked! My
colleagues are amazing, my
professors are amazing and
the resources are just brilliant. If you come here you
are here to stay!”
“There are students here
from so many countries Europe, Asia, America - I
have made a lot of friends.”
Tejpreet Dhillon,
BA (Hons) Marketing
(India)
“The advice I would give to
anyone applying to the
University of Bedfordshire is
that they have made the best
decision of their lives”
James Ogege,
BEng Electronic Engineering
Ashwin Kumar, BSc Computer Science and Software
Engineering
“The University of
Bedfordshire is a big
family. It offers a really
warm welcoming environment for overseas
students.” Qianyi Zhao,
BA (Hons) Media Production
11
Meet and greet
Meet and greet
1
Name:
Title:
Jordan Lewis
Beds SU President
2
Name: Cathy Lapwood
Title: HTS Manager
Cathy heads up the Visa and Immigration
Team in the International Office. Her
colleagues Krisha, Syeda, Nurun and Susan
are here to help students protect their visas
and make the most of their time here.
Where is your favourite place to go
out? Some of my best nights out have
been at university, and it’s such a great
vibe in both Luton and Bedford but I don’t
have one particular place. There is always
just a buzz and a great atmosphere in the
air. You’re not just confined to places near
the campus either and often it’s nice to
go back to your uni friends’ hometowns
and have a night out there too!
What are your words of wisdom for
new, first year students? Don’t be afraid
to spread your wings! Talk to as many
people as you can and don’t be shy.
Remember everyone is in the same boat as
you. University goes so fast and you should
make the most of it so get involved with as
much as you can. These days employers
are looking for more than a degree so you
should make the most of the opportunities
on offer, such as Beds SU’s sports clubs,
societies and volunteering department.
Remember to work hard and play hard.
No one said it’s going to be easy but at
the end it will be so worth it!
The International Office is open from 9:30am
to 4:30pm Monday to Thursday and 9:30am
to 4pm on Fridays.
We encourage all students to come and talk
to us if they need advice or guidance with a
visa issue - we are here to help.
So if you need to extend your Tier4 Visa, want
to invite friends or family to visit you, or need
help because you have lost your passport the
Visa team in the International Office is here
to help.
Call 01582 743421 or 01582 489129 or email:
[email protected] or come and talk to
an advisor.
4
12
Our staff and students share their words of
wisdom and favourite social hot spots with you.
Name: Treehouse Luton Campus
The Treehouse is the Community and Faith
centre at our Luton Campus. It’s a ‘home
away from home’ to make new friends - drop
in for tea or coffee and a warm welcome.
We’re big on Support - talk to us and we’ll
listen and help confidentially
3
Name:
Dr. John Beaumont-Kerridge
Dr Fiaz Hussain
Sub-Deans International
Dr John Beaumont Kerridge is Sub-Dean
International for the Business School and
Dr Fiaz Hussain is Sub-Dean International
for CATs Faculty. For students they act as
liaison between teachers and
administrative staff and should your
main point of contact with your Faculty.
Sub–Deans International are available to
provide support for both academic and
pastoral issues and help make sure that
you enjoy the best possible experience
at University. Both are active members
of the teaching staff, which means they
understand the student experience from
both sides.
Dr Beaumont Kerridge, known throughout
the University as JBK says, “If students need
support with study or advice on a how to
work on a particular project we encourage
them to come and talk about it. We do all
we can to help.” JBK can be contacted on
T: +44 (0)1582 743207 E: [email protected]
and Fiaz on : +44 (0)1582 743029 E: fiaz.
[email protected]
We celebrate major world faith festivals and
work together for peace, plus our students
love being creative and organising fun events.
We have Prayer and Quiet Rooms available.
Find Treehouse on the ground floor J001 Business School, Vicarage Street and visit
www.beds.ac.uk/treehouse
Name: Safena Kausar
Title:
Senior Student Information
Adviser
What is your advice for new students?
There is a lot to take in at the start of
term, and you won’t be able to take it all
in at once. You should be given a copy
of the Student Information Directory at
registration – keep it somewhere safe
6
Name: Emma Fiddler
Title:
BA (Hons) Nursing with
Registered Nurse: Adult
student
What is your must do experience
during your first term? Talk to as many
people as you can. Build friendships. Get
together outside of university and have a
catch up about the lectures and life outside
study.
7
Name: SeedBeds Bedford Campus
SeedBeds is our Community and Faith
centre on the Bedford Campus. It’s normally
open Monday to Friday between 10am and
4:30pm offering a place to relax and chill
away from studying. You’ll find SeedBeds
in S Block.
8
Name: SeedBeds Bedford Campus
Community and Faith UCMK
The Community and Faith team at UCMK,
part of Student Support; offers personal and
religious support to all students. We can
help you get in touch with others from your
faith and cultural community and support
you as you settle in and throughout your
studies.
and read it a few weeks into term. The
Student Information Desk (SiD) is here to help
you, so don’t be afraid to come and ask if you
need help.
Meet and greet
5
Where is your favourite place to go in
Luton or Bedford? The SU coffee bar,
on the mezzanine in the Luton Campus
Centre is my favourite place, it has really
comfy sofas and is a great place to chill
out, and the staff are really great.
What are your words of wisdom for new, first
years students? Don’t worry about going out
and purchasing every single book on the
recommended reading list. The library stocks
the majority of these and I have found that
every now and then you will come across a
book that you fully understand and feel you
will use in your future career. These are the
ones to spend the money on!
As you come out of P Block by the
Repographics Room we are on the left
immediately opposite the tower. Just drop in.
SeedBeds offers a relaxing and safe place to
chat and meet friends and a space for reflection and prayer. We can advise you on finding
a faith community, a church, mosque, synagogue, temple or other places of worship.
We run monthly community lunches at UCMK
and this is a good opportunity to meet and
make friends in an informal environment see
http://www.beds.ac.uk/ucmk/ucmk/studentsupport/community-and-faith for more
information about us and what we do.
13
Join our club
Join our club
Whether you want to take up a hobby here, or pursue
something entirely new, we offer a wide variety
of activities, clubs and societies. Not only is this
a great way to meet new people and make new
friends, but it’s an opportunity to do something fun
at the same time as enhancing your CV.
The University of Bedfordshire’s Students’ Union (Beds
SU) offers more than 50 cultural, religious, arts and
sports-based societies. Here are just a few that you
can get involved in:
The write stuff
There are opportunities to work on the Students’ Union
Magazine, LOUD! which is produced for, and written by
students. Whether you want to write articles, do design
work, or take photographs, there are a number of ways
to get involved in this monthly publication.
Get Into Sport
The University has a great reputation for sports, and
there is a wide range on offer to suit all tastes, including
badminton, basketball, cricket, football, golf, hockey,
netball, rugby and tennis to name just a few. However,
if you are more comfortable watching from the
sidelines, then you can cheer on the Bedfordshire Bulls
teams that compete in the British Universities Sport Association (BUSA) leagues. www.beds.ac.uk/sportbeds
Get Involved
If sport is not really your thing then we offer a number of
cultural and religious societies including the Bangladeshi
society, the Chinese Society, the Islamic society the Vietnamese Society and the Christian Union. If you can’t find
one that takes your fancy then you can always set up your
own with the help of Beds SU. www.bedssu.co.uk
Take centre stage
Over at our Bedford campus you can get involved in the
Dance and Performing Arts Evening School which offers a
series of ballet, jazz and urban dance classes, which are run
for a small fee.
“There are so many reasons
to join a club or society –
it’s an opportunity to meet
new people, try new things
and develop the skills you
already possess. Check out
www.bedssu.co.uk to find
out all we have to offer.”
John O’Brien,
Student Activities Manager
14
Join our club
If you want to take up an activity that relates more
to your course, then fear not. Here at Bedfordshire
we also offer some course-specific, extra-curricular
activities that may appeal to you.
Media movers
Radio LaB is the University’s very own radio station.
Broadcasting from 97.1FM, you can get involved in
presenting and producing your own shows. We also
have The TV LaB which acts as a platform for you to
showcase your work live across our University campuses.
Be a volunteer
The Beds SU volunteering service has a wide range of
opportunities both in house and within the local
community. We can even help you find volunteer work
related to your studies.
Upgrading your future
If you are on a Computer Science and Technology
related course you can get involved in the Academic into
Business Computing (ABC) scheme. This provides you
with the opportunity to gain experience of working on
real projects for clients. Psychology and Social Science
students meanwhile, can benefit from internships with
the Police and local charities.
Getting the inside scoop
Many courses also provide opportunities to attend
masterclasses with industry insiders. Previous Media
masterclasses have included visits from CBBC presenter
Gemma Hunt and Del Brown. Our Human Resources
students have been treated to masterclasses with
industry experts, including speakers from the Chartered
Management Institute, Pictons Solicitors LLP and Plain
Talking HR, to name a few.
Have your say
Become a course or faculty representative to be the
voice for fellow students on your course and help solve
and raise course or faculty issues on behalf of your
peers. You get access to full student rep training run by
the Students’ Union to enhance your role. It’s a great
addition to any CV.
In the know
We host conferences throughout the year which are
open for you to attend. Conferences can include our
very own world-leading researchers, as well as top
speakers from industry. Social Science students can
attend the Making Research Count events, free of
charge, whereas Performing Arts students can join
the Junior Research Institute and work alongside our
academics on research projects.
Industry visits
Many of our courses offer outward visits which provide
a great day out and the chance to get into industry.
Our Psychology students frequently go to the Crown
court to observe cases, and our Computer Science and
Technology students get to go to Luton Magistrates’
court and 7Safe – world-renowned experts in computer
forensics investigation and training.
To find out more, please visit:
www.bedssu.co.uk
“Radio LaB is much more than just a
student radio station, broadcasting
24/7 across Luton on 97.1FM on a
community radio license and online. No
previous radio experience is required!
To register your interest, visit
www.radiolab.beds.ac.uk/getinvolved
and fill out the online form.”
Terry Lee,
Radio LaB Co-ordinator
15
Student support
Student Support
Student Support offers practical and confidential
advice and support. We have several teams who can
help you during your studies.
Student Engagement
Can advise you on complex problems including
academic, personal and health issues that may impact
on your studies. The Engagement Team works closely
with all support teams at the University and your
academic department to ensure your needs are fully met.
Email: [email protected]
Disability Support
Support students whose learning may be affected by
a disability, a long-term medical condition or a specific
learning difficulty, such as dyslexia.
We offer support with:
• Applying for Disabled Students’ Allowances
(UK students only)
• Access on campus
• Accessing non-medical helper support
• Screening for specific learning difficulties
• Examination access arrangements
Email: [email protected]
16
Counselling Service
Can help if you are experiencing any problems of a
personal or emotional nature that may be interfering
with your academic work and your life. Counselling
offers you the opportunity to talk in confidence with
someone who is impartial and separate from work,
social and family life. Our aim is to help you find and
activate your own resources to resolve your difficulties.
A telephone service is offered to students studying at
the Buckinghamshire campuses.
Email: [email protected] (Luton)
[email protected] (Bedford)
Mental Well-being
One in four people experience some sort of mental
health difficulty in their life, particularly during stressful
times. Personal support is offered to students
experiencing mental health difficulties.
What support can be offered?
• An initial assessment to determine the most
beneficial support for your individual needs
• One-to-one support
• Liaison with mental health services and GP
• Support during absence caused by ill health and
facilitation of a planned return to study
Email: [email protected]
Registering with a Doctor’s Surgery
You will need to register with a local doctor when you
come to University – do not leave this until you are
unwell. There are several near our University campuses
and we recommend you do this during your induction
week. For information about local surgeries, please
contact one of our Student Support Receptions.
Student Money Advice
Offers confidential advice and support from experienced
advisers. If you have money worries the advisers are
able to give you general advice on budgeting and will
point you toward alternative sources of funding that
may be available.
Email: [email protected]
Mitigation
Can’t hand in work on time or sit an exam? Apply for
mitigating circumstances if serious and exceptional
factors outside your control prevent you from carrying
out academic work. Applications for mitigation should
be made before or on the day of submission.
Email: [email protected]
Student support
Community and Faith
Welcomes students of all faiths and beliefs. We offer
confidential personal support and advice on faith matters,
and also offer a range of social activities and events often
based in the Community and Faith centres on campus.
Prayer and Quiet Rooms for major world faiths are provided,
along with information about local places of worship.
Email: [email protected]
Visit the Student Support Reception on the
second floor of the Campus Centre in Luton,
in H building in Bedford, or you can call
one of our Student Support Receptions on
01234 793333 (Bedford) or 01582 489622
(Luton and other sites). Further information
can be found at:
www.beds.ac.uk/student-support
Student Information Desk (SiD)
All of our support services can be accessed through
the Student Information Desk (or SiD as we like to
call it). SiD desks are located across all our campuses
where you can speak to someone face-to-face. SiD
can also be accessed online 24/7, so no matter how
big or small the problem, or whether you are on or
off campus, we are always here to help.
The SiD team has been trained to know about all the
services available, and will make sure we put you in
touch with the right person. SiD can also pass the
enquiry to the relevant specialist and you will be able
to track the progress of the enquiry, and be kept
up-to-date with progress, enabling you to spend your
time on your studies. Visit: www.beds.ac.uk/sid for
more information.
Study Hub
To get help and advice, you can also visit the
StudyHub. From computer skills workshops to
specialist help and support in your subject from
one of our expert Academic Liaison Librarians
there is a plethora of support on hand to support
your studies, in addition to the vast digital
resources on hand. Visit:
http://lrweb.beds.ac.uk/help for more details.
17
Supporting your Learning
Supporting your Learning
18
Study Hub
To get help learning to study, you can
visit the
Study Hub. One of our expert
Academic Liaison Librarians, Professional Academic Development Team
members or Computer Skills Trainers
will be on hand to help you enhance
your academic skills. Additionally
there are many guides and resources
available online.
Visit: http://lrweb.beds.ac.uk/studyhub
Skills for Success
As part of the registration process,
you will be expected to attend skills
for success workshops. These will
give you a head start in studying at a
UK University. Workshop opportunities include sessions on:
How to study in the UK
How to read academic materials and
take notes
Understanding plagiarism
Academic writing Skills
What is expected in presentations and
group work
PAL is Peer Assisted Learning. The idea
behind PAL is that of experienced
students, those who have “been there,
done it and got the t-shirt” working
with new, first year students to help
them get their heads around life at
the university, and to understand
what being a University of Bedfordshire student is really like.
Many students coming to university
can find the transition from home/
school/college daunting or difficult
and we want to make this as smooth
as possible to ensure new students
have a good experience.
Our Professional Academic
Development (PAD) team can help
you if you are experiencing difficulty
with your studies or if you want to
develop your skills further.
From referencing to IT skills, PAD team
is there to support you every step of
you way.
Here at the University of Bedfordshire we take
your career very seriously. We have high graduate
employability, with 92% of our graduates going into
employment or further study (DLHE 2012) and we
are passionate about encouraging you to reach your
professional potential.
We provide you with a whole range of opportunities to
gain work experience and develop your employability
skills. Make sure you take full advantage of everything
we offer whilst you’re studying with us, as this will help
you to distinguish yourself from other graduates when
it comes to applying for a job.
Careers and Employability
Careers and Employability
Mario Louis,
BA (Hons) Television Production graduate
Now Freelance TV Researcher, Maverick TV
Lyzgeo Yoshi,
BSc (Hons) Software Engineering graduate. Now
Capacity & Performing Planning Analyst, Vocalink
Jodie Lockwood,
BA (Hons) Television Production graduate
Now Production Co-ordinator, ITV
Careers and Employment Service
Once you have registered, drop in to see us on
campus so that we can start to help you achieve
your career goals straight away. We provide you with:
• Dedicated employability advisers for each course
and department
• Access to a wealth of careers information and
resources online
• Help with securing internships and part-time jobs
• Events and careers fairs where you can meet
employers face-to-face
• The chance to enter competitions and win
awards, such as ‘Bedfordshire Edge’, and our
Employability Award enabling you to stand out
from other students
19
Accommodation
Accommodation
Short Term Options:
If you have arrived arrive in Luton without any long term accommodation booked or ready for you, then there are some
short term options you could use to give yourself time to find something more suitable.
The cheapest short term accommodation is usually a B&B - Bed & Breakfast room in Luton town. They will provide you with
somewhere to sleep and breakast but are not suitable to stay in long term. There are two B&Bs close to the Luton Campus:
Bed and Breakfast in Luton
The Hardware Café Single room: From £25 per night
80A Castle Street, Luton, Beds, LU1 3AJ Tel: +44 7940 573 988 Email: [email protected]
Hill House Bed & Breakfast Single room: From £40 per night
93 London Road, Luton, Beds, LU1 3RG Tel: +44 (0)1582 722725
Hotels in Luton.
Luton Hotel Residences:
92 Chapel Street
Luton LU1 5DD
01582 726009 www.lutonhotelresidence.com
Easy Hotel
40A Guildford Street
Luton LU1 2PA
01582 482119 www.easyhotel.com
Stockwood Hotel 41/43 Stockwood Crescent
Luton LU1 3SS
01582 721000 www.stockwoodhotel.com
Hotels in Bedford (10mins from Campus)
Travel Lodge Goldington Road
403 Goldington Road
Bedford MK41 0DS
0871 559 1804 www.travelodge.co.uk
20
Go to
www.beds.ac.uk/accommodation to find
out University Halls of Residence like
Fitzroy Court (opposite)
E-mail:[email protected]
Private Rented Accommodation
If you wish to stay in private rented accommodation, these are some of the useful websites that can help.
www.spareroom.co.uk and www.gumtree.com.At the beginning of the academic year in September
and October there are usually many other students looking for accommodation at the same time,
and many room options are available.
Accommodation
Accommodation
You can also go to one of the Accommodation agents in Luton. These agents have been recommended
by previous students at the University.
TL Properties: TL HOUSE, 21 Guildford Street, Luton
Bedfordshire LU1 2NQ Tel: +44 1582 705013
www.tlproperties.co.uk E: [email protected]
Raymond Fox 28 Wellington Street, Luton LU1 2QH Tel:
+44 1582 450 100
www.raymondfox.co.uk E:[email protected]
The University Accommodation company (Campus Living)
has just started a list of approved accommodation providers
in Luton and Bedford towns which is now available at www.
studentpadbeds.co.uk
There are currently twelve properties live on the site all from
Bedford at the moment but they are hoping to get more landlords from other areas soon!
Staying with a Host Family - this can be a great way to improve
your English and get to know local culture. Host family rooms
usually cost between £70 and £100 per week in Luton including all bills except telephone calls. You would usually have one
private bedroom in the family house, and then share all the
other facilities of the house such as bathroom, washing, cooking and garden. Please come to the International Office to get
a list of all the host family rooms in Luton and Bedford.
Accommodation Advice: Come to the International Office
to speak to an International Student Advisor or contact the
Student Union Advice Centre on: 01582 743264 or 743276 or
743275. Alternatively you can email SU: Louise.Tadiar@beds.
ac.uk.
Accommodation Insurance: Living in the UK is
relatively safe, but we advise all students to get
Contents Insurance for their belongings. So if any of your belongings are lost or damaged you will be covered for the loss.
Popular insurance companies dealing with students are:
§§ Endsleigh Insurance: www.endsleigh.co.uk
§§ Cover-4 Students: www.cover4students.com
21
Accommodation
Accommodation
Fitzroy Court, Luton
Ideally you should arrange your accommodation before you arrive
at the University. If you haven’t yet secured your place in our
accommodation you can find all the details on our website:
www.studentvillagebeds.com
Luton campus
We have more than 1,800 rooms available for students studying at our
Luton campus. Our new ultra-modern en-suite accommodation Fitzroy
Court and Wenlock Court offer fully furnished en-suite flats. Each flat has
a spacious kitchen/lounge area, in addition to fantastic communal areas
including a gym at no extra charge.
The Student Village also provides accommodation at Lea Halls and
Guildford Halls with standard shared bathroom and kitchen facilities,
social space/lounge and access to 24 hour assistance. There’s also
dedicated postgraduate and students over 25 accommodation for a
more quiet residential life at the heart of the town centre.
Bedford campus
Students at the Bedford campus can opt to live at the Student Village or
at Liberty Park, all of which are located on campus. The Student Village
offers 168 rooms with different rooming options; from en-suites rooms to
budget-saving study rooms with shared bathroom and kitchens. Whereas,
Liberty Park offers 430 en-suite study bedrooms grouped into flats, with
fantastic communal areas and an on-site gym.
UCMK, Milton Keynes campus
Accommodation for the UCMK campus, Milton Keynes are being reserved
at our committed accommodation partners in Bedford. Transport provisions
have been arranged for all students with academic classes at our UCMK
campus. There are also a number of private-rented accommodation options
available to students who choose to study at our UCMK campus in Milton
Keynes. For more information email: [email protected]
22
Liberty Park, Bedford
Artist's impression of the new library, ready 2015
Alexon building
New facilities at your fingertips
New facilities at
your fingertips
We provide you with the best possible
environment in which to succeed. Take
a look below to get a snap shot of some
of the latest additions and developments
on campus which you can make use of
during your time with us.
Postgraduate Centre
Luton developments
Brand-new Library
Professional Postgraduate Centre
At our Luton campus, work is underway on a brand-new,
seven-storey library that will offer state-of-the-art IT
equipment, in addition to increased space for study either
individually or as a group, by 2015.
Our Postgraduate students can benefit from access to
our new Postgraduate and Continuing and Professional
Development (CPD) Centre which opened in spring
2013. Built specifically for Postgraduate students, this
bespoke facility includes two Harvard-style lecture
theatres, teaching spaces and individual study spaces,
as well as a Postgraduate lounge and games room.
Exhibiting the best
Located just off-campus, we’ve opened brand-new facilities
for our School of Art and Design. The Alexon building
provides students with dedicated studio and exhibition space,
and replicates the kind of creative space you’d expect to see
in industry.
Bedford developments
Artist’s impression of the new teaching building
Brand-new teaching space
At our Bedford campus work is underway on a brand-new
three-storey building that will offer a number of high-quality
teaching spaces, as well as informal learning spaces, lecture
theatres and a new student services centre by 2015.
Top of our game
Our Physical Education and Sport Science Centre, which was
used to train athletes in the 2012 Olympics, provides you with
access to the latest sport and exercise science technology to
help assess and develop your sport performance. Work has
also been underway to refurbish our sports hall, and upgrade
our changing rooms, allowing our Bedford campus to offer
facilities that meet national championship standards.
23
New sports hall
Things to do in Luton
Things to do in Luton
Interest and cultural
1 University of Bedfordshire
Luton campus University Square, LU1 3JU
This maybe your base for three or more years. The Students Union and Beds SU bar is located in the Campus Centre. 2 The Mall Arndale LU1 2LJ
Home to Luton Market with Halal meat, fresh fruit and veg, Caribbean, Philipino and African food stalls and more than 120 high street shops including TK MAXX, Primark and Topshop, right on your
doorstep.
3 The Galaxy
Bridge Street, LU1 2NB
This complex offers 11 cinema screens,
16 bowling lanes, American pool tables, air hockey and a number of restaurants.
4 The hat Factory
Bute Street, LU1 2EY
Playing host to everything from jazz to
comedy nights, this is Luton’s premier
entertainment venue.
5 Train Station
Station Road, LU1 2LT
You can be in central London within
30 minutes, as well as a host of other
exciting places you can visit.
6 London Luton Airport
Airport Way, LU2 9LY
This airport is only three miles from
our Luton campus, so you can benefit
from cheap flights to many destinations.
7 Luton Hoo
24
Golf Hotel and Spa
Just two miles from Campus Luton Hoo is a beautiful stately home now run as a 5* hotel. For a taste of real English culture try afternoon tea at the hotel. If your parents come to stay its a great place to take them for an affordable dinner at the Brasserie.
10 Luton Halal Meat Store
Useful shops
8 Welcome Supermarket
52 Park Street Luton LU1 3ET
This small sells a great range of everyday essentials for Chinese and Asian cooking.
The larger Worldwide Cash & Carry in Union Street has an wider range of Asian groceries.
9 Iceland
52 Park Street Luton LU1 3ET
This is a great place to get your daily essentials from teabags, milk and bread to washing up liquid and loo rolls.
Very student friendly prices, close to
c ampus.
189 Dunstable Road, Bury Park LU1 1BT
One of many local Halal butchers with a wide range of products on offer.
11 Abi Polish Food Store
172 Dunstable Road Bury Park LU1 1BT This is a very convenient food shop
selling a range of Polish delicacies.
12 Johal Food Store
76 Dumfries Street Bury Park LU1 5BU
Sri-Lankan Tamil groceries and a wide range of other products.
13 Ujan Bhati
104a Dunstable Road Bury Park LU1 1EW
Bengali and Indian grocery and
convenience store.
14 Liquid & Envy
Gordon Street, LU1 2QP
You won’t want to miss out on Monday’s Fuzzy Logic student nights.
Look out for the weekly Fancy Dress
Themes and upcoming PA’s.
15sub2
Park Street, LU1 3JX
sub2 is your student venue. Home to
the official student Wednesday night,
For BUCS Sake, the venue also hosts
live music events and a variety of
student led activities. Sport
18 Venue 360
21 Pade
22 Desert Rose Cafe
Gipsy Lane, LU1 3JH
Venue 360 is the official home for all
University Sports, Leisure and Fitness
in Luton, so if you are a University of
Bedfordshire student then look no
further. It also includes six outdoor and
two indoor tennis courts. And, with a
University ID card you can also get
great discounts!
19 Inspire: Luton Sports Village
Bury Park, LU1 3EY
This complex has a coffee shop, internet cafe, restuarant and shisha bar - Arabellas Lounge.
17sub2
20 Luton Town Football Club
16 Nadeem Plaza
Park Street, LU1 3JX
sub2 is your student venue. Home to
the official student Wednesday night,
For BUCS Sake, the venue also hosts
live music events and a variety of
student led activities. Restaurants
Hitchin Road, LU2 8DD
This state-of-the-art, multi-sport
facility has a 50m, 8 lane swimming
pool and a 10m, world class diving
facility. In addition Inspire houses a
100 station gym that is pay as you go
as well as running a wide range of
fitness classes.
Kenilworth Road Stadium, LU4 8AW
Cheer on the local football team, The
Hatters, at the 10,000-seat stadium,
which is only a few minutes walk from
the town centre.
To find out more, please visit:
www.beds.ac.uk/
39 Wellington Street, LU1 2QH
Popular and good quality African bar and restaurant which also does takeaways. Take advantage of the student deals.
Things to do in Luton
Clubs and Bars
Park Street, LU1 2NB
Luton’s first Shisha cafe opened in 2004 and serves a delicious range of arab delicacies.
23 Papa J’s
Wellington Street, LU1 5AF
Indian Tapas restaurant serving a great range of delicous south indian dishes menu and very popular with students.
24 La Dolce Vita
Park Street, LU1 3ET
Enjoy Italian food in the setting of a
17th century former coach house or in
the courtyard garden with fine Italian
wines, traditional pastas and
homemade pizzas.
25 The Coffee House
Park Street, Luton LU1 3EP
Grab a coffee, milkshake, pastry or
panini and while away an afternoon.
Right opposite the University, this hot
spot is great to relax in.
studentlife
25
Things to do in Bedford
Things to do in Bedford
Interest and cultural
1 University of Bedfordshire
Bedford campus
Polhill Avenue, MK41 9EA
Check out our professional 280-seat
theatre, state-of-the-art PE and Sport
Science Centre and en-suite halls of
residence, all located on campus.
2 Harpur Shopping Centre
Home Lane, MK40 1TJ
Shop ‘til you drop at Primark,
Debenhams, Topshop, JJB Sports,
New Look, Argos, Boots and many
more outstanding retail outlets.
3 Aspects Leisure Centre
Newnham Avenue, MK41 9LN
This entertainment complex houses
Bedford’s Cineworld cinema, a bingo
hall, Fitness First gym, plus fast food
restaurants including Pizza Hut and
McDonald’s.
4 Bedford River Fesitval
River Great Ouse
The River Great Ouse plays host to the
Bedford River Festival every other July,
and features a fair, fireworks, music
and hot air balloons.
5 Priory Country Park
MK41, 9SK
With 68 acres of stunning countryside
and woodland, plus a beautiful lake,
Priory Country Park is the perfect
place to escape for a picnic.
6 St Paul’s and Harpur Square
MK40 1TN
Bedford has hosted thriving markets
for more than 800 years and they
trade on Wednesdays and Saturdays
in St Paul’s and Harpur Square.
7 Train Station
26
Ashburnham Road, MK40 1DR
Travel to London’s St Pancras
International in just 40 minutes, or
you can treat yourself to a day out
and explore Brighton, Nottingham and
Leicester using Bedford’s rail links.
Bars
8 Yates
53-55 High Street, MK40 1RZ
DJs, drinks and dishes that won’t
break the bank, this bar, club and
restaurant has got your entertainment
covered. Check out the vodka jellies.
9 The Banker’s Draft
115 High Street, MK40 1NU
With all the great offers you’d expect
in a Wetherspoon pub, this is a great
place to start your night out.
10 The Rose
45 High Street, MK40 1RY
Open until 2am, this bar and club
is home to Bedford’s finest
up-and-coming DJs and MCs.
11 Chameleon Bar
14-15 Saint Paul’s Square, MK40 1SL
A great bar for drinks deals and party
anthems throughout the weekend, it’s
a very popular place to start your night
out. There’s also a decent menu and
even a free meal on certain evenings
when you buy a drink!
12 Barley Mow
Loyes Street, MK40 1EZ
An intimate venue, open till late, this
friendly gay pub won the People’s Choice
award at the 2014 Best Bar None awards.
13 The Hub
Bedford campus,
Polhill Avenue, MK41 9EA
Your Students’ Union bar. Famous for
its cocktails, karaoke and live music
nights. Now with Sky Sports!
Sport
Restaurants
14 Elements Nightclub
19 Bedford Blues Rugby Club
23 Dragon Restaurant
15 The Pad
20 Alexander Sports Centre
24 Indiya Restaurant
29 Mill Street, MK40 3EU
As an official Beds SU bar/club, you’re
likely to bump into a whole load of
fellow Bedfordshire students here.
2 Lurke Street, MK40 3HY
Run by and for music lovers, The Pad
hosts the best ‘n’ busiest Indie nights
on Saturdays and welcomes various
special guests on Fridays, so don’t
miss out!
16 Esquires
60a Bromham Road, MK42 2QG
Bedford’s premier live music venue
has played host to a number of the
UK’s biggest bands, including Coldplay
(twice!), Franz Ferdinand, Muse, Bloc
Party, and many more.
17Vibe
St. Peters Street, MK40 2PN
With two rooms, three floors and a
huge sound system this official Beds
SU club guarantees a raucous night out.
18 Bedford Corn Exchange
St Paul’s Square, MK40 1SL
From Kylie tribute nights to
performances from its resident
Philharmonia Orchestra, this music,
theatre and comedy venue has it all.
Goldington Road, MK40 3NF
Cheer the mighty Bedford Blues at
their 7,000-seat stadium, and look out
for special student discounts.
Sidney Road, MK40 2BQ
This sport centre has outdoor playing
fields, a climbing wall, indoor badminton
courts and a gym. Special membership
rates are available for University of
Bedfordshire students.
21 Bedford International Athletics
Stadium
Barkers Lane, MK41 9SB
Be a winner with the eight-lane
athletics track, an American football
pitch, two rugby pitches and a weights
room. Full-time students can get
concessions too!
22 Priory Marina
Barkers Lane, MK41 9DJ
Just two miles from Bedford, this
beautiful country park marina offers
canoeing lessons, boat hire, sailing,
plus cycle hire, as nature reserve
and riverside walks.
River Street, MK40 1PX
Make sure you’re hungry before
heading here as it has an all-you-caneat Chinese and Thai buffet.
Things to do in Bedford
Clubs
1-2 The Broadway, MK40 2TE
Spice up your life and satisfy your
craving for curry at Indiya with a terrific
tikka or a brilliant biryani.
25 Asia Lounge
66 High Street, MK40 1NT
A fantastic pan-Asian restaurant and
cocktail bar, with a huge menu of
amazing dishes. For something lighter
on the pocket, try their lunch deal.
26 Riverside Grill
19 Castle Lane, MK40 3NT
Gaze out at the river as you enjoy
great grilled food in the contemporary
and stylish Riverside Grill. The burgers
are not to be missed!
To find out more, please visit:
www.beds.ac.uk/
studentlife
27
Things to do in Milton Keynes (MK)
Things to do in Milton Keynes (MK)
Interest and cultural
1UCMK
University Campus Milton Keynes
Avebury Boulevard, MK9 3HS
Check out our new campus in Milton
Keynes.
2 thecentre:MK and
Midsummer Place
Silbury Blvd, MK9 3EP and
67 Midsummer Place, MK9 3GB
Combined these two shopping centres
make one of the largest covered
shopping areas in Europe, boasting
more than 400 shops.
3 Xscape Milton Keynes
Xscape complex, MK9 3XS
This massive complex includes a
16-screen cinema, restaurants, bars
and a wide range of sporting facilities
(see Sport section).
4 Milton Keynes Dragon Boat
Festival
Willen Lake, V10 Brickhill Street,
MK15 0DS
Every year, up to 60 crews battle it out
watched by several thousand spectators.
5 Milton Keynes Theatre
500 Marlborough Gate, MK9 3NZ
In the heart of MK’s Theatre District,
this is the most successful theatre
outside of London’s West End.
6 The National Bowl
Watling Street (V4), MK5 8AA
This huge, open air venue has a
capacity of 65,000 and hosts some of
the UK’s largest mega-concerts.
7 Bletchley Park
Sherwood Drive, MK3 6EB
28
Britain’s best kept secret during World
War II, Bletchley Park saw the code
breaking process lead to the world’s
first electronic computer, Colossus.
8 Milton Keynes Central Train
Station
302 Eldergate, MK9 1LA
Milton Keynes Central provides train
links across the UK and direct routes
to London Euston, Manchester
Piccadilly and Birmingham New Street.
Bars
9 Lloyds No 1 Bar
7 Savoy Crescent, MK9 3PU
This pub offers great value, is open
seven days a week and until 3am at
the weekends.
10 Moon Under Water
Xscape complex, MK9 3XS
This pub provides a good selection
of local ales.
11Revolution
Xscape complex, MK9 3XS
This popular chain has over 90 different
types of vodka and is open until 2am.
12Snobar
Xscape complex, MK9 3XS
The perfect après ski venue,
overlooking the slopes.
13 Cookies & Cream
3 Savoy Crescent, MK9 3PU
Open three nights a week this is a
stylish nightclub with regular special
guest DJs.
14Groove
Sport
16 Xscape Milton Keynes
602 Marlborough Gate, MK9 3XS
Home to Europe’s largest indoor
snozone for skiing and snowboarding.
It also includes indoor skydiving, rock
climbing, bowling, a casino and gym.
499 Lower Twelfth Street, MK9 3PY
This retro bar and club is open every
weekend, has three main rooms and
provides a mix of music to suit all
tastes.
17stadium:mk
15 Wonderworld MK
Along Silbury Boulevard and Avebury
Boulevard
Take a walk or put on your skates to
explore MK’s green oasis in the heart
of the city.
Xscape complex, MK9 3XS
Offering a range of cocktails, shots
and pitchers this venue has three main
rooms the Secret Garden, Yesterday
and Tomorrow.
MK1 1ST
This 22,000 capacity stadium is home
to the city’s League 1 football team.
18 Campbell Park
19 Willen Lake
V10 Brickhill Street, MK15 0DS
Open seven days a week, water sports
include windsurfing, power boating,
paddle sports and sailing.
Restaurants
22 hub:mk
MK9 2HP
Offering a selection of sophisticated
dining options including: Brasserie
Blanc, Browns Bar & Brasserie,
Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Loch Fyne,
Strada and Zizzi.
23thecentre:mk
24 Silbury Blvd, MK9 3EP
Here’s a taster of the huge range of
restaurants offered in thecentre:mk
Café Rouge, Carluccio’s, Giraffe,
Jamie’s Italian, Nandos, Pizza Express,
Wagamama and YoSushi.
Things to do in Milton Keynes (MK)
Clubs
24 Theatre District
MK9 3PU
There’s a great mix of restaurants to
suit all tastes; including TGI Friday, Bella
Italia, and Zizzi, as well as Elements
offering global buffet-style dining.
20Silverstone
Towcester, NN12 8TN
The iconic motor race course is just 15
minutes drive from Milton Keynes.
21 National Badminton Centre
To find out more, please visit:
www.beds.ac.uk/
Bradwell Road, MK8 9LA
Open to the public and the training
centre for England’s world-class squad.
studentlife
29
How to find us
How to find us
Our campuses are easy to get to
by road, rail or air. So, wherever
you are coming from, just follow
these simple directions:
Luton
Luton campus
Situated 30 miles north of London,
the University’s Luton campus boasts
superb road, rail and air links.
• Luton is just off the M1 at junction 10
northbound, and junction 11 southbound
•
Luton railway station is a five-minute walk
from the Luton campus and is served by
First Capital Connect trains from London
St Pancras International and Bedford
• London Luton Airport is three miles away
and has easy access by taxi or airport bus
Bedford
Bedford campus
Bedford lies 46 miles north of London
on the main A6 route and offers easy
access from both the north and south.
• From the north, leave the M1 at junction
14 and take the A422
• From the south, leave the M1 at junction
13 and then follow the A421
• Bedford railway station is served by First
Capital Connect trains from London St
Pancras International
30
How to find us
Milton Keynes
University Campus Milton Keynes
Our new Milton Keynes campus is
situated 54 miles from London and is
served by great road and rail links.
• Located on the M1 at junction 13,
northbound and junction 14, southbound
• Rail connections maintained by Virgin and
London Midland
• Coach services to many cities can be
accessed via the train station, town
centre or Coachway
For more information please visit:
www.beds.ac.uk/
directions
31
www.beds.ac.uk
Orientation helpline: +44 (0)1582 743022
Luton campus
University Square
Luton Bedfordshire
United Kingdom LU1 3JU
Bedford campus
Polhill Avenue
Bedford Bedfordshire
United Kingdom MK41 9EA
Buckinghamshire campus
Oxford House
Oxford Road
Aylesbury Buckinghamshire
United Kingdom HP21 8SZ
University Campus Milton Keynes
502 Avebury Boulevard
Milton Keynes Buckinghamshire
United Kingdom MK9 3HS
Putteridge Bury campus
Hitchin Road
Luton
Bedfordshire
United Kingdom LU2 8LE
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