Healthcare students welcome guide - September 2016

Your guide to starting a funded bursary healthcare course with us in September

Welcome 2016

CONTENTS‌

2

Head of Healthcare welcome

3

What to do before you arrive

4

Important checklist

5

Academic induction

6-7

Registration

8

Getting to your campus

9

Fees and funding

10-11

Meet and greet

12-13

More than a degree

14-15

Your Students’ Union

16

Join our clubs and societies

17

Sports for all

18

Your Learning Resources

19

Student Support

20-21

Careers and employability

22-23

Things to do in Luton

24-25

Things to do in Aylesbury

26

Things to do in High Wycombe

27

WELCOME… …to the University of Bedfordshire. Here in the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, we are delighted that you have chosen to study with us. You can be confident that you have made the right choice and that you have taken the right first steps in your chosen career.

You will soon be joining a diverse and dynamic university community of more than 22,000 students from more than 120 countries around the world. As a healthcare student at Bedfordshire you will study at either our Butterfield Park site in Luton, or our Buckinghamshire site in Aylesbury – which sits within Aylesbury college – a new partnership, which allows you to utilise their great on-campus facilities. At Bedfordshire, we are certain that our friendly and supportive staff and campus environments – whether you are based in Luton or Aylesbury – will help you get the best out of your studies and enable you to achieve your full potential. As a student on a pre-registration course you are supported financially, both in terms of a bursary and your fees, by either Thames Valley or East of England Health Education England. Your course is delivered in partnership with the University and the NHS Trusts. As a Thames Valley student you are placed at the Buckinghamshire site in Aylesbury and East of England students have their academic base at Butterfield Park in Luton.

Here is something to really look forward to! As a healthcare student you will learn in modern facilities at our Bedfordshire (Butterfield Park, Luton) and Buckinghamshire (Aylesbury) campuses. Simulation forms an integral part of your course with simulation facilities at both the Aylesbury and Butterfield sites.

What’s more, you can rest assured that your career interests are well looked after – we were rated a top 10 university for improving the student experience, and a leading university for improving career prospects and career choices (National Student Survey 2015). The commissioners of your course, Thames Valley and East of England, work with the University to recruit you into the NHS Trusts where you have trained. The strategy behind local commissioning is to develop the local workforce of the future, therefore there is active recruitment of graduates into the areas where you receive your training.

Dr Barbara Burden Head of Healthcare Practice

We recognise that new environments can take a little getting used to. And that is why we have prepared this guide, which includes everything you need to know about your first few weeks with us, including arrival dates and registration, to fun activities on campus and in the local area.

As a student of the University of Bedfordshire you have joined a progressive institution devoted to helping you succeed. I hope your time at the University is enjoyable. Welcome!

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What to do before you arrive

WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOU ARRIVE Your first week at the University of Bedfordshire will be packed full of induction sessions. During this time you will receive information about your course, and have the chance to meet staff and other students on your course for the first time.

You should have already attended your pre-induction session. If you were unable to make it, please email our Admissions Team at: admission@beds.ac.uk You will register at the beginning of your course. However, you should also receive an email from the University before you arrive requesting that you complete online registration. This will speed up the registration process when you arrive at the University. The email will also include a username and password in order for you to access the online registration.

Register online (e:Vision)

Before you arrive at the University, you will need to complete your registration online via e:Vision at: www.beds.ac.uk/sits. Please be aware that you will need to know your national insurance number for online registration. At the end of your online registration, please print your registration document and bring it with you to your first week – this will speed up your registration on the day. If you have any problems with this, let us know during your first week, and we can help.

If you have any questions or queries about registration please contact the Registration Team: Call: 01582 489306 Email: help@beds.ac.uk 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.

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To access the

online registration please visit our website: www.beds.ac.uk/sits

Before arriving on campus for your registration, you will need to work your way through the below checklist. This tells you all you need to know about the essential steps you must take before we can register you as an official student at the University of Bedfordshire.

Important checklist

IMPORTANT CHECKLIST

Have you applied for your NHS Bursary?

If not, see page 10 Have you sent your exam results to Admissions?

Have you attended pre-induction?

Have you completed your Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check?

Have you completed your Occupational Health check?

Have you provided us with details of an acceptable second referee (ie from an academic or employer)?

If you have not completed all of the above, email our Admissions Team at: admission@beds.ac.uk

5

Academic Induction

ACADEMIC INDUCTION All students must attend an Academic (course) Induction session during the registration process. These sessions are designed to introduce you to your course, the staff, the student learning environment and all other support networks available. Your induction session will also give you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about the University.

NURSING STUDENTS (East of England) Butterfield Park, Luton Induction Week will start on 5 September 2016: • Starts 10am on Monday 5 September at Butterfield Park • Tuesday 6 September you will be at Butterfield Park • Wednesday 7 September you will be at the Postgraduate Centre, Luton campus, for registration • Thursday 8 September you will be at the Postgraduate Centre, Luton campus • Friday 9 September you will be at the Carnival Arts Centre, next to the Luton campus • From Monday 12 September onwards you will be at Butterfield Park

(Thames Valley) Buckinghamshire campus Induction Week will start on 5 September 2016: • Starts 10am on Monday 5 September at the Buckinghamshire campus • Tuesday 6 September you will be at the Buckinghamshire campus • Wednesday 7 September you will be at the Buckinghamshire campus • Thursday 8 September you will be at the Postgraduate Centre, Luton campus, for registration • Friday 9 September you will be at the Carnival Arts Centre, next to the Luton campus • From Monday 12 September onwards you will be at the Buckinghamshire campus

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Butterfield Park, Luton and Buckinghamshire campus (East of England and Thames Valley)

Academic Induction

MIDWIFERY STUDENTS Induction Week will start on 5 September 2016: • Starts 10am on Monday 5 September at the Luton campus • Tuesday 6 September you will be at the Luton campus • Wednesday 7 September you will be at the Postgraduate Centre, Luton campus, for registration • Thursday 8 September you will be at the Luton campus • Friday 9 September you will be at the Carnival Arts Centre, next to the Luton campus • From Monday 12 September onwards you should refer to your course timetable

OPERATING DEPARTMENT PRACTICE STUDENTS Butterfield Park, Luton Induction Week will start on 5 September 2016: • Starts 10am on Monday 5 September at Butterfield Park • Tuesday 6 September you will be at Butterfield Park • Wednesday 7 September you will be at the Postgraduate Centre, Luton campus, for registration • Thursday 8 September will be a personal study day • Friday 9 September you will be at the Carnival Arts Centre, next to the Luton campus • From Monday 12 September onwards you will be at Butterfield Park

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Registration

REGISTRATION Registration will take place on Wednesday 7, or Thursday 8 September 2016 at our Luton campus.

You will receive notification as to which day to attend when you arrive at campus in your first week.

Why do I need to register?

The University needs to collect information about all of its students for many purposes, including statistical information for the Government and NHS commissioners. Also, contractually, we need to ensure that you are happy to abide by the terms and conditions we set out every year.

Before you arrive to start your course at the University you will need to have registered your details online (see page 4 for details). If you have any problems registering online from home, let us know during your first week, and we can help.

You will also need to register in person when you arrive on campus during your first week, and show your NHS Bursary letter.

When you have fully registered we will issue you with a University ID card. This will allow you to access our buildings and facilities, our Learning Resources materials, log in to BREO – our online learning environment, and begin to benefit from lots of student discounts around town.

Please note: Students must carry ID cards with them at all times. Your ID card is essential for access to buildings in the University. When you attend lectures and seminars please scan in using the facilities in the classrooms.

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What to bring to registration: A NHS secondment letter if you are being seconded by your NHS employer (ie not bursaried) Original qualification certificates (including English language and maths) and the original of your highest level qualification if that is more than the entry requirements Original passport/photo driving licence/ national identity card (photocopies are not accepted) Original DBS certificate (if applicable)

After you have registered After you have registered you can visit our Student Information Desk (SiD) at either our Butterfield Park site, Luton or Buckinghamshire campus, Aylesbury. The SiD desks at Luton and Aylesbury are run by specialist staff from the Learning Resources Centre and the Faculties Registry who will work with you to ensure that your more specific needs can be dealt with quickly. They also provide other services around pre-registration, such as council tax letters, bank letters and access to Student Support services.

Our campuses are easy to get to by road, rail or air. So, wherever you are coming from, just follow these simple directions:

Luton

Getting to your campus

GETTING TO YOUR CAMPUS Luton campus Situated 30 miles north of London, the University’s Luton campus boasts superb road, rail and air links. Our Butterfield Park site is located on the northeast side of Luton. It fronts the A505 dual carriageway and benefits from access to the A1(M) and the M1.

• 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

Buckinghamshire campus (Aylesbury)

Aylesbury

Aylesbury lies 33 miles north west of London and can be reached via the M40, exiting at junction 4 if travelling from the south, or junction 8a if travelling from the north.

• Aylesbury is located within easy reach of London • There are frequent trains to/from London Marylebone • Great travel links via A41, M40 and M25

For more information

please visit:

www.beds.ac.uk/directions

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Fees and funding

FEES AND FUNDING Available funding All UK and EU students on a Nursing, Midwifery or Operating Department Practice (ODP) course starting in 2016 will get their fees paid by the NHS. Plus, you could be eligible for the NHS maintenance bursary – these bursaries are administered by the NHS Student Bursaries.

Here is a snapshot of the types of financial help you are eligible for, depending on the course you are studying: NHS means-tested bursaries • Available to Nursing, Midwifery and Operating Department Practice degree students NHS non-means-tested grant Other funding • Student maintenance loan • Access to learning fund University of Bedfordshire Welcome Package From September all UK and EU NHS funded students studying a three year BSc nursing degree will be eligible for the University’s Welcome Package – one of the most flexible support packages of all British universities and worth a minimum of £450*. For more information visit: unibeds.info/WelcomeNursing *The Welcome Package could be made up of cash, credit on Your Beds Money Card, and library print credit. Visit our website for full details and eligibility criteria.

Who is eligible?

All UK and EU students will get their fees paid by Health Education England, simply follow the process on the NHS Student Bursaries website: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/Students/4032.aspx However, not everyone receives a maintenance bursary. The reasons for students not receiving a bursary may include: • Residency status – complicated residency requirements must be met in order to qualify for the maintenance bursary. These requirements are summarised in the booklet Financial Help for Healthcare Students, which is available from the NHS Student Bursaries website: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/Students/4032.aspx 10

• Channel Islands and the Isle of Man – applicants from these locations are not eligible for the bursary. Crown dependency residents are eligible for offers on the basis of local education authority agreement on fees

• Means-testing – your financial circumstances may mean that you do not qualify for a maintenance bursary If you are seconded by an employer, your employer will pay for you to study the course, which means you are not eligible for bursaries. All you need to do in order to be paid by your employer is to complete the NHS Student Bursaries financial form at: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/Students/3943.aspx

Applying for the bursary You should have received a booklet called Your Guide to NHS Student Bursaries 2016/17, advising you to create your own personal online account which you will then use to make an application for an NHS bursary.

To apply for your bursary you will need to visit the Bursary Online Support System (BOSS), this can be found at: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/Students.aspx. From this page you can find BOSS by clicking on: My Account – BOSS (Bursary Online Support System).

On completion of your online application you will be assigned a unique reference number. Please make a note of this number and keep it safe as it must be included with any documentation and correspondence that you send to the Bursary. Failure to include your unique reference number could result in delays to the processing of your application and any payment of the NHS bursary you may be entitled to.

To find out more information and for details on how to apply,

please visit our website: unibeds.info/nursing-money

Fees and funding

Working out the additional costs of university With any university course, there are additional costs that you are likely to incur as part of your chosen course that you may not have thought of previously, but that you should be aware of to help you with budgeting. We’ve tried to outline some of the costs that you may expect as part of your nursing course at Bedfordshire, so you can better budget your money when you’re with us.

Travelling to other campuses and work placements You will be allocated a base campus dependent on your course of study, but from time to time you may need to travel to alternative academic sites. As a lot of your course will involve work placements, you will also be required to travel to and from accommodation to your work placements. The cost of this travel will vary depending on how far you’re travelling and how you’re travelling.

When you arrive at alternative academic sites or your placement there may also be parking costs associated in the nearby car parks.

Work clothes and equipment Due to placements you may need to purchase certain items of clothing such as appropriate and comfortable shoes, a fob watch, smart clothes for community placements, plus others. This is worth thinking about before your arrival in September, to ensure you are equipped with what you need to carry out your placements.

Stationery You will also need to think about the stationery you may need for both your time on campus and during your placements. You may need to purchase files, paper, pens, note pads, course books, plus other items.

If you have any worries or questions about managing your money during your time at university, we have help on our website, and a dedicated Student Money Advice Team.

Visit: unibeds.info/budgeting_nursing

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Meet and greet

MEET AND GREET

1

Name: Tara Alade Title: Beds SU President Course: BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy graduate

What are your words of wisdom for new, first year students? Take a look at the Beds Students’ Union freshers’ page and website. As a Beds student you are automatically a member of Beds SU. It’s a great way to make friends, create and join societies and find out about sports teams, volunteering and plenty of other exciting opportunities. Also, don’t forget to take advantage of your student card. Most shops offer student discount, and if you buy an NUS card you get a whole heap of additional student discounts on top!

What is the “must do” experience during your first term? In your first term I would say make sure you have a fantastic time during freshers’ – it’s such a crucial part of making friends and starting your journey as a university student.

Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student there is something for everybody. And don’t forget to come and see the Executive Officers in the SU. Just like you, we were all freshers’ once and would love to talk to you.

2

What first inspired you to become a nurse/midwife?

Nursing runs in the family, so my inspiration was my mother, aunt and grandmother whom I looked up to dearly and admired for their dedication to their nursing careers. I also thoroughly love helping others and I believe that it is a quality a nurse should have.

What is the best thing about the campus and its location?

It is located in a modern, scenic business park and so it has a nice relaxing atmosphere without being too far from the town centre itself and the main university campus. It is also close to the Mall where students can go and relax.

What is the best part of training?

Getting to learn about the workings of a hospital and about all the different medications used and procedures carried out. I find the most rewarding thing is to be able to help service users in their time of need and knowing that I am helping them in some small way.

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Name: Emma Hoynes Course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)

Name: Judith Chappell Title: Associate Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences

How well do you rate the facilities?

They are first class and have been supplemented with the development of a high-quality Simulation Centre for health and social care.

3

Name: Fatima Yayi Course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Mental Health)

Why did you choose your course?

Because I care for people; Nursing is about caring for people and being able to communicate and give individual care.

I wanted to be able to care for people and improve their quality of life.

What are your favourite things about the course?

The tutors are very knowledgeable and very supportive. If I go to them with a problem, they always give the right advice. During my placements everything has been great as well; supportive mentors and good environments where I can relate theory to practice.

Why did you choose the University of Bedfordshire?

After doing research the feedback from previous students showed me that the University of Bedfordshire has a good record and provides a lot of opportunities for their students. I knew then that I definitely wanted to come here.

In what ways do you help your students gain employment when they leave?

We work with local NHS Trusts who talk to students about job opportunities. Recent results indicate that an impressive 96 per cent of our healthcare graduates enter employment or undertake further study within six months of graduating, many of whom will have already secured their dream job even before graduation.

Meet and greet

5

Name: Grace Mphande Course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Mental Health)

What inspired you to become a nurse?

I wanted to make a difference in my community and in people’s lives.

What is the best part of training?

Definitely the clinical placement. I was able to put theory into practice and support individuals according to their individual needs.

Why did you choose the University of Bedfordshire?

After doing my research on different universities I chose the University of Bedfordshire because of the comments I heard from previous students. Since joining, I can testify that I have enjoyed studying at this University.

How well do you rate the facilities?

The facilities are very good, and you have the opportunity to use the libraries across all university campuses, which is good for both individual and group learning.

6

Name: Sherry Holdsworth Course: DipHE Operating Department Practice (ODP)

What inspired you to become an ODP? I decided on ODP as a profession as I like the one-to-one care for the patient, and the way the job is structured. I have a very organised personality and I like the order and precision that comes alongside being an ODP. What is the best thing about the campus and its location?

The campus is great; very clean and tidy. There is also free parking on site which makes things easier as it can be expensive to park at placement so to park for free at the University balances it out.

What is the best part of training?

I think the best part has been my placement. I have felt extremely supported at all times by tutors when off campus.

Why did you choose the University of Bedfordshire?

The placement areas were good and I received high recommendations from previous students.

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Name: Theresa Curry Title: Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing

What links do you have to help students find placements/graduate roles? The University has developed close relationships with partner employers, and local health care providers, who regularly meet students on-campus and in practice to discuss job

7

Name: Skye Capolucci Course:BSc (Hons) Nursing (Mental Health)

What is the best part of training?

The University of Bedfordshire has a very good professional partnership with the local NHS Trust. This provides great collaboration between the University and the practice placement areas. The University and the local Trust spends a great deal of time engaging with service users to be able to deliver an effective and accurate course. There are also lots of opportunities to get involved in alongside your studies, including peer assisted learning (PAL), and the recovery college, which gives you the chance to listen and partake in various sessions to enhance your learning. The lecturers give you lots of support and encouragement to fulfill your full potential and develop additional skills.

How well do you rate the facilities?

The facilities at the campus are great.

There is everything you need and more.

The support networks within the University are outstanding.

opportunities in their final year. Students can access dedicated careers support officers and are invited to open days and joint learning events to help them connect with local employers. Final placement requests where students are able to complete their education in their preferred place of practice are met wherever possible, ensuring that students seeking employment within local health care providers have a secured post after graduation.

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More than a degree

Here at the University of Bedfordshire we believe that university life is not just about acquiring new knowledge. What you do in addition to your studies will distinguish you when it comes to securing those all-important graduate jobs. Through studying at Bedfordshire you get more than just a degree; a whole host of opportunities are opened up to you during your time with us.

We offer both extra-curricular and co-curricular activities, so whether you want to complement your studies, or boost your skills and experience, we’ve got it covered.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Co-curricular activities give you the opportunity to enhance your real-world skills and develop as a professional, and complement your studies.

Become a course rep Become a course or faculty representative to be the voice for fellow students on your course, and help solve or raise issues on behalf of your peers. You get access to full student rep training run by the Students’ Union.

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Become a PAL leader PAL sessions are weekly sessions run by second and third year students for first year students. Being a PAL leader enables you to improve many transferable skills including communication, presentation and organisational skills, to name a few! 98 per cent of PAL leaders said it improved their student experience.

B-Innovative Do you have an innovative business idea that you’re not quite sure how to progress? The B-Innovative programme is a fully funded programme designed to help students develop their business ideas.

Plus lots more, visit: unibeds.info/co_curricular

More than a degree

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Extra-curricular activities are fun and give you the opportunity to demonstrate additional skills that will help in the work place, as well as showing determination and commitment to developing new skills.

Volunteer your time The Beds SU volunteering service enables you to get hands-on experience and make a real difference. We can even help you find volunteer work related to your studies. In the 2014/15 academic year our students invested 42,000 hours into volunteering opportunities.

Find out more

Go Global Our Go Global programme gives you the opportunity to take part in exchange programmes abroad with opportunities to visit countries all over the world, including China, India, the USA and Brazil. Whether you want to learn a new language, build networks, simply have the travel bug, or want to develop new skills and life experiences, the Go Global programme offers you the opportunity to get a truly international experience.

Take over the airwaves Radio LaB is the University’s very own community radio station.

Broadcasting from 97.1FM throughout Luton and Bedfordshire, you can get involved in presenting and producing your own shows. Listen online: radiolab.beds.ac.uk

Plus lots more, visit: unibeds.info/Extra_Curricular

about all of our opportunities and how to stand out from the crowd at: unibeds.info/MTaD_nursing

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Your Students’ Union (SU)

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YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION (SU) Beds SU is a student-led organisation. Through Beds SU you have the platform to be heard on virtually any topic, whether you want to shout from the rooftops about campaigns, provide opinions on the latest student issues, vote for your new student leaders, or change something about the Union. Find out more at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beheard

Be Involved is where you’ll find our sports teams, societies (see page 17), volunteering opportunities and Raise and Give (RaG) initiative, helping you to raise money for charities that matter to you. Have a look and if nothing interests you, why not start your own student activity?

Visit: www.bedssu.co.uk/beinvolved

Throughout our venues we offer a seven-day entertainment programme during term time.

Whatever your interests are, we offer a wide range of events including live music, club nights, movie nights, pub quizzes and karaoke. For more information and a weekly events guide visit: www.bedssu.co.uk/beentertained

Beds SU welfare and advice team are here to help you out whenever things don't quite go to plan throughout your student experience, and to help you along the way. University is fun and exciting but at times you may need help and support. Lean on Beds SU and let us help you through individual advice, workshops or a whole range of useful information and resources.

Visit: www.bedssu.co.uk/besupported

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 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 across our campuses: Academic • Law Association • Peer-Assisted Learning Cultural • Nigerian • Afro-Caribbean Society Faith • Christian Union • Islamic • Gospel Arts and Production

Sport • Athletics • Badminton • Basketball • Cheerleading • Football • Hockey • Kick boxing • Netball • Rugby

Bedfordshire Bulls For those who are competitive, you can also join the Bedfordshire Bulls – which comprises 1,000 student members across all of our campuses, which compete nationally in the British Universities and Colleges Sports (BUCS) league. And since the Bedfordshire Bulls was set up in 2012, our students have enjoyed lots of success, with 11 League winners and six Cup Finalists to date.

Join our clubs and societies

JOIN OUR CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

However, if competition is not really your thing, you can still get involved in many of the sporting activities at a recreational level, or cheer from the side lines.

The choice is yours!

For the full list visit: www.bedssu.co.uk. If you can’t find a club or society that interests you, then speak to Beds SU when you join us, as they can help you to set up your own team; whatever your interest may be.

Recreation • Mature and Part-time • The Writers Guild • Theatre • Grub Club

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Sports for all

SPORTS FOR ALL Sport at the University of Bedfordshire enables you to make lifestyle choices to enhance your overall experience whilst studying with us, and have fun!

We offer a comprehensive range of activities across all our campuses to suit your individual needs, including fitness, recreational and competitive sport.

And if we don’t already offer what you want or need, then come and talk to us; our doors are always open.

Aspire Gyms Launched in 2015, the Aspire Gym is the newest edition to the sporting facilities at our Luton and Bedford campuses, and can be accessed by all of our students.

The gyms are equipped with a range of cardiovascular equipment, including rowing machines, treadmills, bikes, resistance machines, medicine balls, and extensive free weight areas. Our Bedford gym also offers a strength and conditioning room, which houses three Olympic platforms and three squat racks.

When you become a member of the Aspire Gym you can use both the Luton and Bedford gyms. There are a variety of different membership options available, visit: unibeds.info/gym-membership.

Get into Sport FREE sport for students and staff If you would prefer your activity to be a little more informal, Get into Sport is the University of Bedfordshire’s FREE sport participation programme that aims to get more students and staff involved in sport and physical activity whilst they are at the University. A full programme of activities, times and venues can be found at: www.beds.ac.uk/sportbeds Get into Sport provides a large variety of sports across Luton and Bedford. All sessions are aimed at being non-competitive, in a fun, social and welcoming environment. There’s no cost and no commitment, simply turn up and play. Our sessions will always have a professional and qualified coach or activator on hand to assist you. The emphasis is on taking part and having fun.

Sign up at: unibeds.info/get_into_sport and you will receive FREE membership, which allows you to attend any session on our timetable throughout the academic year.

Coaching SportBeds run a selection of coaching, officiating and CPD courses* throughout the year. These courses are offered to help you develop your vocational qualifications alongside your academic studies.

Visit: unibeds.info/beds_coaching for information on dates, times, venues and booking information. *Bursaries are available. Please email: coaching@beds.ac.uk

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We look forward to working with you during your time at the University of Bedfordshire. We’re not just a collection of amazing materials relevant to your studies, we also have a wealth of help and expertise at your disposal. If you’ve got a question please come and ask; we’d love to talk to you.

The University sees the Library as central to your learning experience and continues to invest to improve the range of information you can read, access to that reading, and creative learning spaces.

• Open 24/7: when you arrive take advantage of our long opening hours; we’re open 24 hours a day, every day of the week, at our Luton and Bedford libraries • Digital Library: giving you access to 72,000 e-journals, 16,000 e-books, 100+ databases, open access research repository

• DISCOVER: the research discovery tool to help you find information to read for your assignments • StudyHub@Library: get the study skills to maximise your academic success. Our workshops, drop-in sessions and StudyHub:Online resources include finding and using information, assignment and dissertation writing, using Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, managing your time and learning exam techniques. Find full details at: lrweb.beds.ac.uk/studyhub

Your Learning Resources

YOUR LEARNING RESOURCES

• Friendly, helpful staff: ask any of our staff for help; they will show you how to use the library, find books, book a PC, use the printers and trouble shoot your information and IT queries Full details of our resources and services are on our website: lrweb.beds.ac.uk

• Print Resources: 300,000 printed items, 800 print journals across all sites • Reading lists: course specific print and digital reading your tutors want you to read, all in one place

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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 The student engagement team can advise you on complex problems including academic, personal and health issues that may impact on your studies. They are also the team to speak to if you are considering withdrawing or interrupting your studies. The team works closely with all support teams at the University and can also advise you of services available in the local community.

Email: student.engagement@beds.ac.uk Disability Support Disability support assists students whose study may be affected by a disability, a long-term medical condition, or a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia.

How we help: • Allocation of a named adviser throughout your studies • An initial appointment to discuss your study support needs • Guidance on applying for Disabled Students’ Allowances • Let your tutors know how they can support your study (Learning and Teaching Support Agreement) including exam access arrangements • Access on campus • Advice on screening for Specific Learning Difficulties Email: disability@beds.ac.uk 20

Counselling Service Our 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 personal 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 our Buckinghamshire campuses.

Email: counsellingbedford@beds.ac.uk (Bedford) counselling@beds.ac.uk (all other campuses) 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: mentalhealth@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 visit the student support section of our website: www.beds.ac.uk/studentsupport

Student Money Advice The Student Money Advice team 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.

Find out more on pages 10 and 11.

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 • We welcome all students • Join our exciting programme of activities or access our confidential personal and spiritual support – whether you think of yourself as religious or spiritual, or whether you don’t think that way at all • We can give you information and link you with places of worship • Prayer and quiet rooms are available at Luton Treehouse, Putteridge Bury and Bedford SeedBeds Sign up with us: www.beds.ac.uk/faiths 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 our Student Support Reception on 01582 489622 (Luton and other sites).

Further information can be found at: www.beds.ac.uk/studentsupport

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 develop your academic skills, such as writing, researching, maths and computer skills, you can visit: StudyHub@Library. We provide regular drop-ins and workshops, as well as a wide range of online materials.

You can also get specialist help and support in your subject from one of our expert Academic Liaison Librarians. Visit: lrweb.beds.ac.uk/studyhub for more details.

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Careers and Employability

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CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY Here at the University of Bedfordshire we take your career very seriously 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. Don’t forget to join our clubs and societies. For more information see page 17.

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 School and course • Access to a wealth of careers information and resources online • Help with securing internships and part-time jobs • Events and career 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

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. For more information see page 15.

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. 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

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Things to do in Luton

THINGS TO DO IN LUTON Interest and cultural 1 University of Bedfordshire

Luton campus University Square, LU1 3JU This is where you’ll be based for three or more years. And situated in the Campus Centre is the Students’ Union (Beds SU), and Beds SU bar.

2 The Mall Arndale

LU1 2LJ Home to more than 120 high street shops including TK MAXX, Primark and Topshop, right on your doorstep.

3 The Galaxy

Bridge Street, LU1 2NB This entertainment complex offers 11 cinema screens, 16 bowling lanes, American pool tables, air hockey and arcades, as well as a number of restaurants and pubs.

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 Rome, Madrid and many more destinations.

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Bars 7 The Lounge

Park Street, LU1 3JU Situated in the Campus Centre, it serves delicious coffee at one of the two student bars, whilst the other is well stocked for a stiffer drink. By night it hosts games and quiz nights, as well as live comedy and music events.

8 The California Inn

Chapel Street, LU1 5DD A popular gay pub in the heart of Luton with DJs, cabaret nights, a pool table and beer gardens.

9 The Crown

George Street, LU1 2AA This bar is popular with students and has a live DJ every Friday and Saturday.

10 Brewery Tap

Park Street, LU1 3ET This popular haunt is just a hop, skip and jump from campus and is where you will find many current and former students. Offering real ales, delicious dishes and a beer garden this is one place you’ll want to visit.

11 Flame Bar and Nightclub

Wellington Street, LU1 2QH This friendly gay bar and club is in the centre of town and offers great entertainment, including cabaret singers and quiz nights.

12 Edge

Park Street, LU1 3EY This is known as one of Luton’s best indie and rock nightclubs and plays everything from Hardcore, Pop Punk, Thrash, Emo, Heavy Metal, Indie and much more.

13 sub2

Park Street, LU1 3JX sub2 is your student venue. Home to the official student Wednesday night, Why Not Wednesday, the venue also hosts live music events and a variety of student led activities.

Sport 14 Venue 360

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!

15 Inspire: Luton Sports Village

Hitchin Road, LU2 8DD This state-of-the-art, multi-sport facility has a 50m, eight-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.

16 Luton Town Football Club

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.

Restaurants 18 Nakorn Thai

Wellington Street, LU1 2QH Get the taste of Thailand in Luton and take advantage of a three course lunch for as little as £6.

Things to do in Luton

Clubs

19 Nando’s

Bridge Street, LU1 2NB Nando’s now has a takeaway service, so you can savour the Portuguese flavours at home as well as in the restaurant.

20 Red Chilli

Wellington Street, LU1 5AF A short walk from campus brings you to Red Chilli’s, a popular restaurant in the town, offering all of your favourite Curries and Indian dishes.

21 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.

17 Aspire Gym

Luton campus, University Square, LU1 3JU The brand new Aspire Gym offers a range of flexible membership options, giving you exclusive use of a convenient, on campus, exercise facility.

To find out more, please visit:

www.beds.ac.uk/studentlife

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Things to do in Aylesbury

THINGS TO DO IN AYLESBURY Interest and cultural

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1 University of Bedfordshire at Aylesbury College

Oxford Road, HP21 8PD This will be your student HQ, where you’ll meet your course reps and access support services and social events through the Students’ Union.

8 10

2 Hale Leys Shopping Centre

High Street, HP20 1ST Check out the latest styles in stores such as River Island and Next, in one of Aylesbury’s covered shopping centres.

3 Waterside Theatre

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Exchange Street, HP20 1UG There’s always a host of events lined up, from concerts to comedy – you’ll never be stuck for entertainment.

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2

4 The Roald Dahl Museum

81- 83 High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL Take a short, scenic bus ride through the countryside to this award-winning museum, dedicated to one of Britain’s best-loved writers.

1 11 12 4 5

5 Stoke Mandeville Hospital

Mandeville Road, HP21 8AL This world-renowned hospital includes the world-renowned National Spinal Injuries Centre. There is also a burns and plastics unit and areas specialising in maternity and cancer care. The busy accident and emergency department has recently been extended to cope with an expanding local area.

Bars, clubs and restaurants 6 The Hop Pole Inn

83 Bicester Road, HP19 9AZ The Hop Pole offers ales from all around the world, which adds up to a permanent beer festival.

7 Mango 26

1 Silver Street, HP20 2PT Aylesbury’s premier gay bar has a range of great drinks offers and great events, with live acts on stage.

8 Mirage

39a Buckingham Street, HP20 2NQ Party into the night at Mirage, with state-of-the-art sounds, LED lighting and an illuminated dance floor.

9 Wagamama

Unit 3, The Exchange, Exchange Street, HP20 1UR Bringing you food with fresh, nourishing Japanese flavours, it’s the perfect place to experience the taste of Asia.

10 Prezzo 39 Buckingham Street, HP20 2NQ Pizza and Parmesan, pasta and pesto – all prepared pronto at Prezzo! Italian food never tasted so good.

To find out more, please visit:

Sport 11 Aylesbury College Gym

Oxford Road, HP21 8PD Take advantage of the super sports facilities at Aylesbury College, through our special arrangement for our students.

12 Vale of Aylesbury Athletics Club Guttman Road, HP21 9PP If you’re a keen runner, sprint along to the Athletics Club, where you’ll find a large community of athletes, a training club and a running track.

www.beds.ac.uk/studentlife

…and in High Wycombe

…AND IN HIGH WYCOMBE 9

Interest and cultural

10

2

1 Wycombe Swan Theatre

St Mary Street, HP11 2XE The place for plays, musicals, comedy, even pantos... oh yes it is!

3

4

2 Cineworld

Denmark Street, HP11 2DB Multiplex cinema showing the latest international blockbusters in 2D and 3D.

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3 Eden Shopping Centre

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1

1 Welcome Hall, HP11 2DQ Exciting shops, top-name stores and a range of cool eateries await.

4 Train Station

5

Amersham Hill, HP13 6NN Got a day off? Then speed down to London and take in the excitement of the Capital’s many destinations.

5 Wycombe General Hospital

Queen Alexandra Road, HP11 2TT Part of Buckinghamshire NHS Trust, this hospital has adopted the new National Programme for IT. Nursing practice can be done here.

Bars, clubs and restaurants 6 The Snug

7 Crown Lane, HP11 2HF Daily deals on cocktails, and a wide range of food available, means this bar is not to be missed.

7 O’Neill’s

Paul’s Row, HP11 2HQ Fine food and beer await you, and always a warm failte from the bar staff.

(That’s Irish for welcome!)

8 The Hobgoblin

35 High Street, HP11 2AG Situated in the heart of High Wycombe this bar serves six real ales, hosts live music weekly, and has a heated garden.

13 11

9 Yates’s

46a-50 Frogmore, HP13 5DG As one of the biggest clubs in High Wycombe, Yates’s offers something for everyone including student nights and regular drink deals.

10 Pizza Express

40 Oxford Street, HP11 2DJ A colourful and contemporary Italian restaurant in a prime location. And there’s even live music on the menu!

11 TGI Friday’s

Crest Road, HP11 1UA It’s party time every time at TGI Friday’s, with fun and games galore.

There’s no better way to celebrate everyone’s favourite day of the week.

Sport 12 Wycombe Wanderers FC

Adams Park, Hilbottom Road, HP12 4HJ The Chairboys need your support to help in their quest for promotion.

Cheer on the lads at their 10,000-seat Adams Park stadium.

13 Wycombe Sports Centre

Marlow Hill, HP11 1TJ There’s a wide range of leisure facilities whether you’re looking to improve your health and fitness, or just want to have a bit of fun in your spare time.

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www.beds.ac.uk Orientation hotline: +44 (0)1582 743022 Main university campus Luton campus University Square Luton Bedfordshire United Kingdom LU1 3JU Nursing campuses Buckinghamshire campus University of Bedfordshire at Aylesbury College Oxford Road Aylesbury Buckinghamshire United Kingdom HP21 8PD Butterfield Park Unit 260-270 Butterfield Great Marlings Luton Bedfordshire United Kingdom LU2 8DL