International New Students Guide To Starting With Us

International

guide to starting with us September 2014

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

11-19

Meet and greet

20-21

Join our club

22-23

Student Support

24-25

Accommodation

26

New facilities at your fingertips

27

Careers and your employability

28-29

Things to do in Luton

30-31

Things to do in Bedford

32-33

Things to do in Milton Keynes

34-35

How to find us

36

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 You should aim to arrive in the UK before Monday 22nd September 2014 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

Bedford campus

Luton 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 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

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:Â finance@beds.ac.uk

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:

20 – 21 September 2014

Your first week:

22 September 2014

Orientation and Induction:

22 September 2014 - 5th October 2014

Teaching starts:

6 October 2014

Term one:

6 October 2014 – 12 December 2014

Term two:

5 January 2015 – 20 March 2015

Term three:

13 April 2015 – 5 June 2015

Term dates and important checklist

International student information

Visit: www.beds.ac.uk/aboutus/dates for the full list of term dates in 2014 and 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 schedule

Supporting your learning Supporting you Course Academic Induction Freshers’ Fayre

Supporting your aspirations

Registration

Meet your personal tutor

Assessment and regulations

Re-freshers’

Welcome events

Teaching commences

Teaching continues

Teaching continues

Teaching continues

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

Week 5

10

Luton campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Thursday 11 September

Cheese and wine event for nursing students

12.30pm

The Lounge

Saturday 20 September

Chill Zone (bring your own iPod)

10am – 5pm

The Lounge

Sunday 21 September

Student Village morning breakfast

9.30am

Student Village

22 - 30 September and 1-7 October

Monday 22 September

Tuesday 23 September

Wednesday 24 September

Chill Zone (bring your own iPod)

10am – 5pm

The Lounge

Coach tour, picnic and games at Willen Lake, Milton Keynes.

To book onto this event please complete the online registration form: www.beds.ac.uk/freshersevents

11am pick up 3.30pm return

Pick up outside Luton campus

University Registration Please bring the following: 1. Passport 2. Your Offer Letter 3. Your Payment 4. Originals of your Qualifications In addition to Registering with the University you must also register with your Faculty at the Academic Induction

9am - 4pm

Learning Resource Centre (Library) Luton

Welcome to the University & International Student Support

9am-10am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

University Registration Please bring the following: 1. Passport 2. Your Offer Letter 3. Your Payment 4. Originals of your Qualifications In addition to Registering with the University you must also register with your Faculty at the Academic Induction

9am - 4pm

Learning Resource Centre (Library) Luton

Tour of the University - Meet at Park Square Reception

2pm

Park Square

Student Welcome Reception

8pm

PG Centre Lounge

Treehouse social night - free food and drink plus games

6pm – 9pm

Treehouse

Introduction to the University Library & Computing Facilities 9am-10am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

University Registration Please bring the following: 1. Passport 2. Your Offer Letter 3. Your Payment 4. Originals of your Qualifications In addition to Registering with the University you must also register with your Faculty at the Academic Induction

9am - 4pm

Learning Resource Centre (Library) Luton

Communication Skills Introductory Session

3pm - 5pm

A000

Globe café

7pm – 10pm

Treehouse

Doctor’s Registration 1. The Doctors will be coming to the 9-11:30am§ University for three days over the next two weeks to register students. On arrival you will be given a ticket to register.

Only students with tickets will be registered on the day.

Level1 Campus Centre

Labryrinth Meditation

Treehouse

10am - 5pm

Tour of St Mary’s Church and Cream Tea

2pm – 3pm

St Mary’s Church

Tour of Luton Sports Faciliites - Vauxhall Recreation Centre

2pm

Meet at Park Square Reception at 2pm

Cost

£2 non Vplus member

Your first week – events schedule

Your first week– events schedule

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Free

11

Your first week– events schedule

Ch www.b eck out for all edssu.co.uk events the latest a your f nd to buy re wristb shers’ an d

Luton campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Wednesday 24 September

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 1

4pm-5pm

Lecture Theatre G101 & A000

British Quiz Night

8pm-10pm

New Postgraduate Centre Lounge

Bucs Sake Club Night

11am - 3pm

sub2 Park Street

Finding Employment and the International Internship Scheme

9am - 10am

Lecture Theatre G101

Academic Skills Compulsory Sesssion 2

10am-11am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Police Registration 1 If you need to register with the police it will be stated on your visa for the UK. You will need to bring 2 x passport photographs and £34 in cash for the police

11am- 4pm

Level1 Campus Centre

Tour of Luton Town Centre

2pm

Meet at Park Square Reception 2pm

Visit to Luton Parks - see the Gardens, Transport museum, The Discovery Centre and Horse Riding School

2:30pm-4pm

Meet at Park Square Reception 2:30pm

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 3

4pm-5pm

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Movie Night

6pm-9pm

Treehouse Theatre Room J001 Vicarage Street

Keeping Safe and Secure

9am-10am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Thursday 25 September

Friday 26 September

12

Doctor’s Registration 2. The Doctors will be coming to the 9am-11:30am University for three days over the next two weeks to register students. On arrival you will be given a ticket to register.

Only students with tickets will be registered on the day.

Level 1 Campus Centre

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 4

10am-11am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Culture Shock - An Introduction to English Customs and Culture - get to know your new host country

11am - 12am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Tour of the University

2pm

Meet at Park Square Reception at 2pm

Cost

Free. Drinks & Snacks provided

Free Popcorn served

Your first week– events schedule

Ch www.b eck out for all edssu.co.uk events the latest a your f nd to buy re wristb shers’ an d

Luton campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Friday 26 September

Tour of Luton Town

3pm

Meet at Park Square Reception at 3pm

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 5

4pm-5pm

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre & A000

Chinese Film Night - All Welcome

5pm-10pm

Postgraduate Centre Lobby

Free Entry. Popcorn and Sweets

Coffee House open mic fun night

7pm

Treehouse

Free. Hot chocolate and doughnuts

All day International Student Tour - Bedfordshire and the Chiltern Hills. See the home of the Duke of Bedfordshire - Woburn Abbey, Deer Park and Gardens. Explore Riverside Gardens in Bedford, and walk up the Chiltern Hills to see some of the villages and towns of Bedfordshire.

Meet Park Square Reception at 8:30am

Tickets £5.

Tickets available from International Office

Chill Zone

10am – 5pm

The Lounge

Welcome party

9pm – late

The Lounge, sub2, Park Street

Chill Zone

10am – 5pm

The Lounge

Saturday 27 September

Sunday 28 September

Monday 29 September

Tuesday 30 September

Coach tour, picnic and games to Willen Lake, Milton Keynes. 11am pick up To book onto this event please complete the 3.30pm return online registration form: www.beds.ac.uk/freshersevents

Pick up outside Luton campus

Welcome BBQ

5pm

Treehouse Garden

Welcome party

9pm – late

The Lounge, sub2, Park Street

Welcome to the University and International Student Support

9.00am -10am

A000

Student Village morning breakfast

9:30am

Student Village

Tour of the Parks of Luton

12-1pm

Shopping Tour of Luton - Budgeting session followed by a shopping tour of Luton Town Centre

3:30pm-4:30pm Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Film Night

5pm

Cocktail (non-alcoholic) night

6pm

Doctor’s Registration 2. The Doctors will be coming to the 9am-11:30am University for three days over the next two weeks to register students. On arrival you will be given a ticket to register.

Only students with tickets will be registered on the day.

Postgraduate Centre

Cost

Free

£2 non Vplus member

Free. Popcorn and Drinks served.

Treehouse Level 1 Campus Centre

13

Your first week– events schedule

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Luton campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Tuesday 30 September

Introduction to University Library and Computing Facilities

9am-10am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Tour of the University

11am

Meet at Park Square Reception at 11am

Tour of Luton Town

12pm

Meet at Park Square Reception at 12pm

Tour of the Sports Faciliities in Luton - including visit to the Olympic sized swimming pool at Inspire Sports Centre in Stopsley

3pm-5pm

Meet at Park Square Reception at 3pm

Globe Cafe - fun and board games. All students welcome.

7pm-9pm

Treehouse Room J001

Finding Employment and the International Internship Scheme

9am - 10am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Labyrinth Mediitation - Walk the Labyrinth with Guided Meditation

10am-5pm

Treehouse

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 1

3pm-4pm

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Bollywood Film Night

8pm

Postgraduate Centre Lounge

Free Entry. Popcorn and Sweets provided.

Nigerian Independence Day Celebration. Everyone welcome but especially Nigerian students in traditional costume!

8pm

Room A000 Park Square Building

Free Entry. Food and Drink provided.

The Student Union

9am-10am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 2

10am-11am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Police Registration 2 If you need to register with the police it will be stated on your visa for the UK. You will need to bring 2 x passport photographs and £34 in cash for the police

11am-4pm

Level 1 Campus Centre

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 3

3pm-4pm

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Movie Night

6pm-9pm

Treehouse Theatre Room J001

Wednesday 1 October

Thursday 2 October

14

Cost

Free. Finger food and drinks will be served

Free entry. Popcorn and drinks will be served

Your first week– events schedule

Ch www.b eck out for all edssu.co.uk events the latest a your f nd to buy re wristb shers’ an d

Luton campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Friday 3 October

Keeping Safe and Secure

9am-10am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 4

10am-11am

Lecture Theatre G101 Campus Centre

Student Union Freshers Fayre - For all new students One of the biggest events of the year and your chance to find out about the sports clubs, societies, student run services and everything the SU has to offer! If that is not enough to convince you lots of local and national companies will be there with student offers and free samples!

10am-4pm

Carnival Arts Building

Tour of the University

11am

Meet at Park Square Reception at 11am

Tour of Luton Town

12am

Meet at Park Square Reception at 12pm

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 5

4pm-5pm

A004 Park Square Building

Karaoke Night!- sing to win! A prize for the best voice!

5pm

Postgraduate Centre

Sunday 5 October

Coffee. Cake and Fresher’s Service. Enjoy the hospitality of local churches with delicious cakes and hot drinks on offer.

5:30pm

St Mary’s Church next to Campus Centre

Monday 6 October

Teaching Starts - see course timetable http://timetable.beds.ac.uk

Wednesday 8 October

For BUCs Sake - Club Night

11pm3am

sub2 Park Street

Wednesday 29 October

Blind - Beat box theatre

7.30pm

Judith Blake Theatre

Cost

£2 per head. Tickets available from International Office

£5

15

Your first week – events schedule

Your first week– events schedule

Ch www.b eck out for a edssu.co.u eventsll the latest k a your f nd to buy re wristb shers’ an d

Bedford campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Saturday 20 September

SeedBeds, Community and Faith Centre open house

10am – 6pm

Community and Faith Centre S0.02 Chill out space

Sunday 21 September

Student Village continental breakfast

9.30am

The Hub

SeedBeds, Community and Faith Centre open house

10am – 6pm

Community and Faith Centre S0.02 Chill out space

Coach tour, picnic and games to Willen Lake, Milton Keynes. To book onto this event please complete the online registration form: www.beds.ac.uk/freshersevents

11am pick up 3.30pm return

Pick up at front of Bedford campus

Monday 22 - 30 September & 1-7 October

Cost

£2 non Vplus member

University Registration. Please go to SiD Desk (Student Information Desk) in the Learning Hub. Please bring the following with you: 1. Your passport 2. Your Offer Letter 3. Your Payment 4. Originals of your Qualifications. In addition to registering with the University you must also register with your Faculty at the Academic Induction Bedford Campus Inductions - It is very important for all students to attend their Bedford Campus Induction as well as Orientation

Monday 22 September

Tour of the Bedford Campus

Tuesday 23 September

Police Registration at Luton town Police Station only. Every Tuesday morning from 9am-12pm. If you need to register with the police it will be stated on your visa for the UK. You will need to bring 2 x passport photographs and £34 in cash for the police.

Globe café – DIY sandwiches

11am

12pm – 2pm

Welcome to the University and International Student 2pm-3pm Support

16

University Library and Computing Facilities

2pm-3pm

Finding Employment & International Internship Scheme

3pm-4pm

Safety and Security

3pm-4pm

New student welcome reception and cultural food tasting

4.30pm – 6.30pm

Meet at the International Welcome Desk at 11am

Community and Faith Centre S0.02 Room P2.04

The Hub

Wednesday 24 September

Tour of the Bedford Campus Meet at the International Welcome Desk at 11am Academic Skills Compulsory Session1

4pm-5pm

Room P.101

Thursday 25 September

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 2

10am-11am

Room P2.04

English afternoon tea and tour – The Mansion House, Shuttleworth

2pm – 4.30pm

Meet at Bedford campus bus stop 1.15pm

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 3

10am-11am

Room P2.04

Visit to the Mayors Parlour

1.45pm

Meet at Bedford campus bus stop

Friday 26 September

Free Entry. Music, Games and Food on offer.

£5 for transport

Date

Event

Time

Location

Saturday 27 September

SeedBeds Community and Faith Centre Open House

10am-6pm

Community and Faith Centre S0.02 Chill out Space

Welcome BBQ

12pm-3pm

The Hub

Welcome Party

9pm - Late

The Hub

Sunday 28 September

Monday 29 September

Tuesday 30 September

Wednesday 1 October

SeedBeds, Community and Faith Centre Open House 10am-6pm

Community and Faith Centre S0.02 Chill out Space

Coach tour, picnic and games to Willen Lake, Milton 11am pick up Keynes. To book onto this event please complete the 3.30pm return online registration form: www.beds.ac.uk/freshersevents

Pick up at front of Bedford campus

Welcome BBQ

12pm-3pm

The Hub

Welcome Party

9pm - Late

The Hub

Student Village Morning Breakfast

9:30am

Student Village

Pamper and Puddings - Face and Handpainting Make your own puddings

5pm-8pm

Community and Faith Centre S0.02a

Cost

Your first week – events schedule

Bedford campus

£2 non Vplus member

Police Registration at Luton town Police Station only. Every Tuesday morning from 9am-12pm. If you need to register it will be stated on your visa. You will need to bring 2 x passport photographs and £34 in cash for the police.

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 4

10am-11am

P1.01

Globe Cafe - make your own sandwich lunch

12pm-2pm

SeedBeds Room S0.02a

Human Library Come and Meet members of the Bedford Faith Community

4pm-6pm

The Hub Bedford Campus

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 4

10am-11am

T0.08

Student Union Freshers Fayre - For all new students One of the biggest events of the year and your chance to find out about the sports clubs, societies, student run services and everything the SU has to offer! If that is not enough to convince you lots of local and national companies will be there with student offers and free samples!

12pm-4pm

The Sports Arena Bedford Campus

Academic Skills Compulsory Session 5

4pm-5pm

P1.01

Community Labyrinth launch

5pm – 7pm

Between P and R buildings, Bedford campus

Community Launch of Bedford Campus Labyrinth

5pm-7pm

Bedford Campus

Friday 3 October

Community narrow boat trip and picnic

10.30am – 1pm

Meet at Bedford campus Bus stop at 9.45am

Monday 6 October

Teaching Starts - see course timetable http://timetable.beds.ac.uk

Thursday 10 October

Film night

5.30pm – 8pm

SeedBeds S0.02

Sunday 12 October

Day out in the country – Willen, The Well, Willen Lake, Peace Pagoda

10am – 5pm

Meet at campus Bus stop

£5 for transport

Wednesday 15 October

Best in the World – comedy Visit: www.beds.ac.uk/theatre

7.30pm

Campus Theatre

£5

Thursday 16 October

Pecha Kucha – creative people share ideas Visit: www.beds.ac.uk/theatre

Campus Theatre

£5

Friday 24 October

SOLFATARA – theatre Visit: www.beds.ac.uk/theatre

Campus Theatre

£5

17

Your first week– events schedule UCMK – Milton Keynes campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Saturday 20 September

Welcome continental brunch and activities

11am – 4pm

Social area

Sunday 21 September

Coach tour, picnic and games to Willen Lake, Milton 11.40am pick up Keynes. To book onto this event please complete the 3.30pm return online registration form: www.beds.ac.uk/freshersevents

Pick up at front of UCMK

Monday 22 September to Friday 6 October

University Registration Please bring the following: 1. Passport 2. Your Offer Letter 3. Your Payment 4.

Originals of your Qualifications In addition to Registering with the University you must also register with your Faculty at the Academic Induction

Reception Room UCMK

Monday 22 September

Tour of UCMK Campus

10-11am

Meet at UCMK Campus Reception Desk

Tuesday 23 September

Tour of UCMK Campus

10am-11am

Meet at UCMK Campus Reception

Wednesday 24 September

Welcome to the University and International student 10am-11am support.

MK007

University Library and Computing Facilities Student Support Welcome to SeedBeds

MK007

New Student Welcome Reception Community Lunch 12pm-2pm and Cultural Food Tasting

Social Space

Finding Employment and International Internship Scheme

2pm-3pm

Room MK007

Safety and Security and Accommodation Workshop

3pm-4pm

Room MK007

Tour of UCMK Campus

10am-11am

Meet at Reception Desk

English afternoon tea and tour – The Mansion House, Shuttleworth

2pm-4:30pm

Meet UCMK reception 12:45pm

Friday 26 September

Tour of UCMK Campus

10am-11am

Meet at Reception Desk

Saturday 27 September

Welcome continental brunch and activities

11am – 4pm

Social Space

Sunday 28 September

Coach tour, picnic and games to Willen Lake, Milton 11.40am pick up Keynes. To book onto this event please complete the 3.30pm return online registration form: www.beds.ac.uk/freshersevents

Monday 29 September

Visit to Bletchley Park and the National Museum of Computing. See the fascinating history of computer development.

10.30am – 2.30pm

Meet at UCMK at 10am

Tuesday 30 September

Creating UCMK community art

10am – 4.30pm

Social Space

Wednesday 1 October

Community lunch

12pm – 2pm

Social Space

Thursday 25 September

18

11am-12pm

Cost

£5 for transport

Pick up at front of UCMK

£5 for transport Tickets from UCMK Reception

UCMK – Milton Keynes campus Date

Event

Time

Location

Thursday 2 October

Community Fair - come along and meet local organisations that you can get involved with as a volunteer, specialist food shops offering tastings, Student Union and Fairtrade products

10am-4:30pm

Social Space and Main Reception

Friday 3 October

Community narrow boat trip and picnic

10.30am – 1pm

Meet at UCMK at 9.15am

Tour of Bedford town and markets - for those students on the boat trip

1pm – 3pm

Follows on from boat trip (above)

Monday 6 October

Teaching Starts - see course timetable http://timetable.beds.ac.uk

Sunday 12 October

Day out in the country – Willen, The Well, Willen Lake, Peace Pagoda

10am – 5pm

UCMK

Cost

£5 for transport

£5 for transport

Belong at Bedfordshire 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...

“There is a lot of support for international students especially from the International Office” Iris Perami BA(Hons) Public Relations student

“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

19

Meet and greet

Meet and greet

1

Name: Title:

Jordan Lewis Beds SU President

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Name: Jon Driver Course: HTS Manager Jon heads up the Visa and Immigration Team in the International Office. He and his colleagues Syeda, Nurun and Krishna 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: visaadvice@beds.ac.uk or come and talk to an advisor.

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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: jbk@beds.ac.uk and Fiaz on : +44 (0)1582 743029 E: fiaz. hussain@beds.ac.uk

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.

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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.

21

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.

Be more Bull 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.

No sweat If sport is not really your thing then there are a number of societies that you can join, such as chess, computing and cheerleading. We also offer a number of cultural and religious societies including the Bangladeshi society, the Islamic society and the Christian Union society.

And, if you can’t find one that takes your fancy then you can always set up your own with the help of Beds SU. 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

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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 enables you to get hands-on experience and make a difference. We have 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

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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: student.engagement@beds.ac.uk 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: disability@beds.ac.uk

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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: counselling@beds.ac.uk (Luton) counsellingbedford@beds.ac.uk (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: jill.gale@beds.ac.uk 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: studentmoney@beds.ac.uk

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: mitigation@beds.ac.uk

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: chaplaincy@beds.ac.uk

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.

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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: bedsadmin@clvuk.com

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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.

27 New sports hall

Careers and Employability

Careers and Employability 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.

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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

Mario Louis, BA (Hons) Television Production graduate Now Freelance TV Researcher, Maverick TV

Through Bedfordshire Edge, you’re able to gain formal recognition for the learning you have gained through a range of activities undertaken whilst at University, like those listed above. This is a great way to show prospective employers what you’ve achieved during your time at University, and gives you that something extra when it comes to impressing in the interviews, aside from your degree qualification. Find out more about Bedfordshire Edge, visit: www.beds.ac.uk/edge

Careers and Employability

Volunteering Through our Students’ Union, we’re able to offer a volunteer placement service, enabling students to develop themselves through voluntary and project work. Volunteering is a great way to learn new skills, build confidence and gain highly sought after work experience through projects that really make a difference to people’s lives.

Lyzgeo Yoshi, BSc (Hons) Software Engineering graduate. Now Capacity & Performing Planning Analyst, Vocalink

Fungisayi Sasa, BA (Hons) Creative Writing graduate Now Freelance Writer

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Things to do in Luton

Things to do in Luton Interest and cultural 1 University of Bedfordshire

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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.

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11 10

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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.

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1 25 15

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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.

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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

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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.

15 sub2

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.

17 sub2

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

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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

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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.

17 Vibe

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

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Things to do in Milton Keynes (MK)

Things to do in Milton Keynes (MK) Interest and cultural 1 UCMK

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 34

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.

11 Revolution

Xscape complex, MK9 3XS This popular chain has over 90 different types of vodka and is open until 2am.

12 Snobar

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.

14 Groove

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.

17 stadium: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.

23 thecentre: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.

20 Silverstone

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

35

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

36

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

37

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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