Good Universities Guide Spring 2015

THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE

FOR 2015/16 APPLICATIONS

S P R I N G 2 0 1 5 | W W W.G O O D U N I G U I D E .CO.U K

HOW TO CHOOSE A UNIVERSITY CAMBRIDGE BIRMINGHAM BRISTOL WALES CARDIFF DURHAM ACADEMY OF CONTEMPORARY MUSIC KING’S COLLEGE LONDON EDINBURGH OXFORD SOUTHAMPTON IMPERIAL LEEDS LIVERPOOL LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS BELFAST GLASGOW NEWCASTLE NOTTINGHAM YORK UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON MANCHESTER SHEFFIELD EXETER OXFORD BROOKES WARWICK … AND HUNDREDS MORE

9 772054 427003

15

£3.99

Over 600 Universities and Higher Education Colleges

University Taster Days for Year 12/Lower Sixth students

University Taster Days are the very best way for students to experience what it will be like to study their chosen course at degree level.

At an NCH Taster Day students can expect to enjoy challenging and engaging lectures and workshops with world-class academics, hand picked for their enthusiasm for teaching as well as expertise in their field.

Students will also have the opportunity to meet and chat with current NCH students over lunch, which is provided by the College.

Book your complementary place today at www.NCHum.org/taster

Where quick minds

CONTENTS

CLAUDIA DUDMAN editor

WELCOME…

WHAT’S INSIDE?

It’s never too early to begin planning your life

5

beyond school, such is the competition for jobs. universities and higher education colleges, it’s

option, writes James Durant of UCAS

Your timeline of crucial milestones

9

important to take into account that whatever

Off to Uni…

subject you choose, it will have a different focus

Russell Group Universities Angela Milln explains why this set of

at different institutions – so research is key,

universities stands out from the rest

14

(Spot the Difference, page 24).

We’ve got lots of first-hand experience from

The Future’s Yours

16

Choosing a University Your go-to guide. Eleanor Doughty

Tom Witherow, who has just secured his dream

helps you pick the right uni for you

shares what she wishes she’d known when she

18 22

embarked on student life at Bristol.

Do that, and the world’s your oyster!

Natalie Milner shares what to expect

Take the Long View

58

Spot the Difference

Spotlight on King’s

back on her first year as a student

62

Open Days

their chosen careers

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, MMU ALL SAINTS

CNP Ltd, Jubilee House, 2 Jubilee Place, London SW3 3TQ Tel (020) 7349 3700 Fax (020) 7349 3701 Email editor@independentschoolparent.com EDITORIAL Editor Claudia Dudman Senior Sub Editor Natalie Milner Editorial Assistant Eleanor Doughty Senior Art Editor Chloë Collyer Senior Designer Emily Weller Designer Maria Sagun PUBLISHING Publisher & Managing Director Paul Dobson Deputy Managing Director Steve Ross Commercial Director Vicki Gavin Publisher Simon Temlett Media Manager James Dobson Associate Publisher Stephanie Organ

gooduniguide.co.uk

64

Personal Statement

Marketing Manager Will Delmont will.delmont@chelseamagazines.com 020 7349 3710 Production www.allpointsmedia.co.uk Printed in England by Southernprint, Dorset ADVERTISING Sales Manager Lesley McDiarmid Sales Executives Coco Strunck, William Bernard DISTRIBUTION The Guide to Independent Schools is a directory of independent schools brought to you by the publishers of Independent School Parent, the magazine for parents of children in prep and senior independent schools. The Independent School Parent magazine in Prep and Senior issues is published termly. Parents can subscribe for a free issue at: independentschoolparent.com/register © CNP Ltd 2015. All rights reserved. Text and pictures are copyright restricted and must not be reproduced without permission from the publisher. The information contained in The Guide to Independent Schools has been published in good faith and every effort has been made to ensure its

Uni Memories Freelance drummer, Joe Yoshida looks back at his time at ACM

67

Listings The complete list of higher education

Richard Morgan offers advice

THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE

My Uni, My Career Five graduates tell us how they got into

navigating university open days

38

One Year On Bristol undergraduate Tildy Ellis looks

Katie Hughes’ tips and tricks for

gooduniguide.co.uk

Student Union Explained Eleanor Doughty investigates

61

importance of arts and humanities

35

What to Pack?

The ultimate packing list for first year

Russell Goulbourne explains the

The Good Universities Guide

Countdown

What is it and how should you use it?

compares courses across universities

33

Student Finance

the most of your 1,000 days at uni

56

Charlotte Phillips chats to students and

x... anxxxxxxx Claudia Dudman, editor

What is a Collegiate University?

a journalist’s life was for her

24

improve your CV, says Louise Prior

and repay, your student loans

52

Eleanor Doughty always knew that

One thing’s clear – in order to get what you want there’s an element of planning involved.

48

Dr Paul Redmond shares how to make

pack for university (page 56); trainee journalist

it (page 14); and first-year student Tildy Ellis

Let the Adventure Begin Use travel to broaden your skill set and

Nichola Malton explains how to apply for,

fresher to Daily Mail trainee journalist

an indispensible shopping guide on what to

job on the Daily Mail, writes about how he did

45

Tom Witherow’s journey from undecided

students and graduates: Eleanor Doughty has

Clearing and UCAS Going through clearing is always a valid

Sam Haysom has the low-down

6

When you first start looking at different

42

Why Uni?

colleges and universities in the UK

accuracy. All liability for loss, negligence or damage caused by reliance on the information contained within this publication is hereby excluded.

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD Chairman, David Moncrieff Parent, Tor Down UCAS, James Durant Sedbergh School, Andrew Fleck AMDIS, Tory Gillingham Girls’ Schools Association, Rachel Kerr Education journalist, Glynis Kozma Teacher, Zoe MacDougall The Headmasters’ & Headmistresses’ Conference, Heidi Salmons Wellington College, Sir Anthony Seldon Elaine Stallard Consulting, Elaine Stallard Chairman of the Education Select Committee, The Rt Hon Graham Stuart MP Boarding Schools’ Association, Sheila Thompson Canford School, Ben Vessey Independent Schools Show, David Wellesley-Wesley Marketing/Brand Consultant, Peter Young For website and subscriptions, please visit: independentschoolparent.com/register

COVER University of St Andrews, Rhona Rutherford

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 3

WANT TO GET AHEAD IN FASHION?

NEW! weekend courses for 16-18 year olds

Come and learn from the experts at London’s most exciting new fashion college.

Our inspiring courses include the

Fashion Certificate Fashion Foundation Diploma Summer Intensive Course Plus: One Week Fashion Styling and Journalism Courses To find out more and apply visit:

www.condenastcollege.co.uk

HIGHER EDUCATION

SAM HAYSOM editor of whatuni.com

WHY UNI?

D

Tuition fees may be at an all-time high but the investment is worth every penny, says Sam Haysom

eciding whether or not to go to uni isn’t an easy decision. In the last few years we’ve been bombarded by so many shouty headlines about debt and rising tuition fees and graduate employment that it’s sometimes hard to forget what the benefits of getting a degree actually are. There are so many stereotypes and scary stories floating around that the positives often get pushed to the bottom and trampled on, and you might be left wondering what the point in it all is. So – what is the point?

[

showed a similar pattern, with 86% of students in 2014 claiming satisfaction with their course, up from 85% in 2013.

Improving Job Prospects The well-repeated phrase “graduate job prospects” might sound scary. For years, it conjured up images of grim-faced students struggling under a weight of debt, desperately scouring the UK’s flimsy job market for something more than an unpaid internship. Well, forget all that.

Securing a job at a top firm is always going to be a challenge, but there’s plenty of recent evidence to suggest that things are on the up. The UK Graduate Careers

]

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

University isn’t just about getting a job – it’s about the experience, meeting a new set of people and learning indispensable life skills and, most importantly, having fun

It’s Not All That Bad This is really important to remember. The media tends to report on the more miserable aspect, but there are still bags of positives about going to uni. The results of the recent Whatuni Student Choice Awards show that student satisfaction is actually on the rise. 20,000 past and current students rated their university experience in reviews published on whatuni.com, and the average rating they gave in the Overall Experience category was four per cent higher this year than it was last year. Last year’s National Student Survey

gooduniguide.co.uk

Survey published at the start of 2015 described graduate job prospects as being at a “10-year high”, with a reported 8.1% more entry-level jobs available in 2015 than in 2014. Students are feeling more confident about their job prospects this year, too – the annual rise in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards Job Prospects category may be small (just over a 0.01% increase), but it’s there nonetheless. Former NUS President Aaron Porter says that the evidence is overwhelming in higher education’s favour. “Those that do have degrees are significantly more likely to find work,

What do you think about tuition fees? @ISParent

remain in employment and get promoted more quickly compared to those that don’t,” Aaron explains. “In a very competitive jobs market, having a degree is a real advantage.”

Tuition Fee Myths No university-related topic has been argued over more than tuition fees, and the coalition government’s decision to bump up the cap from £3,000 to £9,000 a few years ago. There’s a lot of confusion around the topic – yes, it’s a lot of money that isn’t to be taken lightly, but it’s important to remember that this won’t be the same as other loans.

You won’t have to start paying the money back until you’re earning over £21,000 a year, and when you do start, it will only be nine per cent of any money you earn that’s over the £21k threshold. If it’s debt that’s putting you off the thought of going to university, just make sure you do your homework – read up on the repayment terms and get all the facts before you decide. You might find that things aren’t as bad as they seem.

The Forgotten Benefits University isn’t just about jobs and money.

It’s also about the experience, and meeting a brand new set of people from a wide range of backgrounds. It’s about finding out what living away from home is really like, learning indispensable life skills and – perhaps most importantly – having fun.

Uni has the potential to be lifechanging, both in and out of the lecture hall. “It exposes you to new experiences and a wealth of opportunities,” Porter says.

“University is truly a place to broaden your horizons.” Too right. whatuni.com

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 5

OFF TO UNI...

Like the best hotels in high season, open days at top universities get filled up well in advance!

1

PLANNING YOUR FUTURE

University – which one will suit you? This question’s a biggie, but Chapter One gives you a starting point from which to narrow your search. We explain what all the fuss is about with the so-called Russell Group set of universities.

And learn from those that have been there and done it – even if they didn’t know what they wanted at the time. And don’t forget to take our quiz! Enjoy the ride, this bit is exciting, we promise.

Whatever societies you join at uni, you’ll be passionate about them - be it Quidditch or the Nicolas Cage Society!

2 CHOOSING A COURSE

Courses vary from uni to uni, sometimes in a small way, other times dramatically, so it’s time to gather your prospectuses and make a diagram to figure out which one is for you. Luckily, we’ve done a little bit of the work for you by gathering advice from students.

And we make sure you’re prepped for the all-important open days – so get set for a grand tour of the UK, parents in tow, as you put your future in your own hands.

3

APPLYING TO UNI

It’s time to confront the UCAS application. Plan ahead with some “super-curricular” activities directly related to your course of choice and you’ll be halfway to writing your personal statement.

Now all you have to do is make yourself sound interesting! Then there’s Clearing (it isn’t a dirty word), we look at how it’s actually a really good option to prepare yourself for if you’re not sure what to do next on results day.

HIGHER EDUCATION

The student union is responsible for a lot of the fun at uni and that makes it even more important!

4 STRATEGIC PLANNING

You’ll be needing a bit of dosh while you’re at university, so get to know the student loan system inside out before you go – and make sure you hit the deadline!

We speak to the people in-theknow at Student Finance England, and settle your worries about paying back your Tuition Fee Loan and Maintenance Loan. Plus, we turn to Dr Redmond for his top tips on making the most of your first year at university.

If you see an advert with the words “three-month work placement”, it actually means three-month job interview!

5

OFF TO UNI

You’ve waved goodbye to school, your A levels and Mum and Dad, and now you’re off ! Life as a student, and all that comes with it, beckons – you lucky thing! But what can you do to prepare for your time away? Tick every last pair of socks off with our packing list, and swot up on what’s inside the student union so you’re ahead for when you arrive. They say knowledge is power, and we’ve got that here in bagfuls!

ANGELA MILLN

PLANNING YOUR FUTURE

PHOTOGRAPHY: THINKSTOCK *RUSSELL GROUP STATS ARE TAKEN FROM RUSSELLGROUP.ORG AND BRISTOL CAREERS FACTS FROM DESTINATION OF LEAVERS FROM HIGHER EDUCATION SURVEY

director of student recruitment at the University of Bristol

RUSSELL GROUP UNIVERSITIES

gooduniguide.co.uk

Why does the Russell Group have such a glowing reputation?

Angela Milln explains how it stands apart from the rest

UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 9

PLANNING YOUR FUTURE

Y

ou’ve decided that you want to study at university or college.

With over 160 higher education providers in the UK it can be difficult to decide where you want to study. You may have heard the phrase “Russell Group” universities and wonder what this means or indeed whether it’s even something that matters to you.

WHAT IS A RUSSELL GROUP UNIVERSITY?

DURHAM UNIVERSITY

The Russell Group is a collection of 24 leading UK universities. These universities are committed to maintaining the highest levels of academic excellence in both teaching and research and have unrivalled links with business and the public sector.

Russell Group universities are found in most major UK cities and attract students and academic staff from many countries, while maintaining a strong role and influence within their community.

LEADING RESEARCH

UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL

UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM

10 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

By deciding to study at a Russell Group university, you will have the opportunity to choose a degree from a wide range of internationally renowned courses – from medical, biological and physical sciences to business, social sciences and the humanities. More than 500,000 students are enrolled at Russell Group universities – one in five of all higher education students in the UK. Importantly, many academic staff in Russell Group universities are working at the cutting edge of their disciplines. This means that, as a student, you will interact with leading thinkers and follow a curriculum which is informed by world-class research. As a student, you are likely to have opportunities to engage in research yourself.

Bristol is proud to be a Russell Group member, as through our outstanding

gooduniguide.co.uk

Top 20 in the world The Faculty of Arts & Humanities at King’s is one of the most prestigious in the UK. Specialising in all aspects of human culture and history – from languages and literature to film studies, and from classics to digital humanities – our faculty is renowned the world over.

Perfectly located in the heart of London, with campuses next to the River Thames, the city becomes your extended campus.

Connections with cultural institutions and strong links to employers make King’s an ideal place to study. *King’s is in the top 20 in the world in the QS World University Rankings.

www.kcl.ac.uk/artshums

Five great reasons why Lancaster is one of the best places to live & learn Lancaster is ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK

Lancaster has partner universities in the US, China & more than 25 other countries

9/10 Lancaster students are satisfied with their course Source: National Student Survey

of Lancaster students get a job or further study place within 6 months of graduation

9 unique colleges each with its own history & traditions

Lancaster is a world-class university with a reputation as a centre for excellence in teaching and globally significant research. That’s why 12,000 students, from over 100 countries, have made it their choice.

To find out more, call our

To book a campus tour visit lancaster.ac.uk

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON

research and teaching, unrivalled links with businesses and a commitment to civic responsibility, we make a significant impact on the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of the Bristol area.

BIG SPENDERS

UNIVERSITY OF YORK UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER

Russell Group universities offer excellent facilities. Millions of pounds are being invested in libraries and study space, cutting-edge laboratory equipment, improved lecture theatres, innovative courses, arts and culture facilities, the latest software and professional careers services. On average, Russell Group universities spend 50% more per student than other UK universities on academic services and staff and student facilities.

Entry to this group of universities is highly selective, and applications outweigh places on the majority of courses. This means that you will benefit from working with, and learning from, a highly-motivated and talented peer group.

BURSARIES AND SCHOLARSHIPS

UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS

Every student with the qualifications, potential and determination to succeed at a Russell Group university should have the opportunity to do so, whatever their background. Bursaries and scholarships are available at all Russell Group universities.

SUCCESS RATES

CARDIFF UNIVERSITY

gooduniguide.co.uk

There are many indicators which highlight the success of Russell Group students during their degree courses: the rate of students who complete their degrees is better than at many of the other institutions in the UK and abroad, and Russell Group students are more likely to achieve excellent degree results.

Furthermore, a high percentage of students are in work or further study six months after their graduation: 93% of first-degree graduates from Russell Group universities, compared to 90% for non-Russell Group graduates*.

First-degree students from researchintensive universities are also more likely to progress straight to postgraduate study.

UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL

TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

Students are taught how to problem solve, learn independently and think creatively and analytically – all valuable employment skills. Graduates are equipped with the skills to be successful entrepreneurs, and a significant number of them set up their own companies. So it’s no wonder why graduates are highly sought after by employers, both nationally and internationally.

Research suggests that graduates from Russell Group universities earn, on average, around 10% more than those from other universities over a lifetime*. One recent study shows that 41% of those in work were earning £30,000 or more after three years, compared to 32% for graduates from all UK universities.

UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM KING’S COLLEGE LONDON

NETWORKING

Russell Group universities, including Bristol, have successful and growing alumni associations across the UK and internationally, which provide excellent opportunities for networking and staying in touch.

WHAT TYPE OF EMPLOYMENT DO GRADUATES ENTER?

Students enter a wide range of careers.

Bristol, for example, has one of the best graduate employment record in the UK, with graduates going on to work for a variety of employers*, including Atkins, PwC, Bristol City Council, the NHS, KPMG and Deloitte, with the most popular sectors of employment being health and social work, education, finance and insurance, accounting and management consultancy and wholesale and retail.

Find a full list of Russell Group universities on our website: independentschoolparent.com

UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

XXXXX XXXX

TOM WITHEROW

freelance journalist and City journalism MA student

THE FUTURE’S YOURS

t’s nearly five years since I left Eton College, and this week I was offered my first job. In September, I start on the Daily Mail’s graduate scheme, and as a result, have been thinking about what I wish I’d known when I was doing my A Levels.

By the time A2 maths rolled around, I was sick of exams. I’d lost the will to work, despite being told how desperately important every set of exams was.

“It’s an unfortunate truth that you will be judged on your performance when you are 16,” the now famous Eton headmaster, Tony Little, said to my year group at GCSE. I hate to break it to you Tony, but my GCSEs don’t even make my CV. But for those of you approaching your final term, your A levels do matter.

After two years of personal statements, interviews and entrance exams, I thought I was a bit of an expert. During my gap year, I worked in an international school helping to get kids into British universities.

They had a near 100% success rate, but clearly I couldn’t apply the magic touch to my own applications!

I accepted a place at the University of York to read history, with nothing more than a flash of thought as to whether it would get me a job. And in hindsight, thank God. I loved my degree for the

14 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

Have you decided which degree is for you yet? @ISParent

academic subject that it was. It could have turned out quite differently. Here are the degree plans that got scrapped along the way: aged 15, medicine (I was put off my by doctor father); aged 16, engineering (I realised I didn’t really like physics); aged 17, economics (there was a recession on – I don’t know if you heard?).

So I finally chose history. For me, it was the right place at the right time. Once at York, I signed up for all sorts of societies, and at any given time could be found darting round a squash court (tiring), treading the theatre’s boards in the pantomime (embarrassing) and singing in the barbershop quartet (out of tune, mostly).

But it was the day I wandered into the student newspaper elections that my path for the next five (and who knows, it might be the next 50) years was set. Before that my only brush with journalism was a scathing article I’d written for the Eton Chronicle, attacking Pop – the group of prefects at school who I felt, at the time, were letting the power get to their heads.

The people at the paper looked cool and

[

they promised alcohol-based fun – I was sold. It turned out I was alright at this writing gig and the paper became more of a priority than my degree for the next two years. I made great friends doing it, who are all doing brilliantly at The Sunday Times, BuzzFeed, The Sun and more.

Whatever societies you join at uni, you’ll be passionate about them, whether it’s Quidditch or the Nicolas Cage society (both ridiculous, both existed at York).

You’ve got to find the balance between having a laugh and doing something that might be useful once you’ve left.

My time at the paper psyched me up for my masters degree in journalism at City University London (that I’m about to complete) and gave me some ammo for work experience. Now, someone’s going to pay me real money to do my dream job.

No one knows what they want to do when they start uni; lots don’t know when they leave. I dived into something I’d never done before. Now you can find your own path to wander down.

Find Tom tweeting at: @tomwitherow

Whatever societies you join at uni you’ll be passionate about them – you’ve got to find the balance between having a laugh and doing something that might be useful

]

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

I

Welcome to university, where you might discover what you love by complete fluke, writes Tom Witherow

gooduniguide.co.uk

CHOOSING A UNIVERSITY

City or country, collegiate or London? Tick the boxes below to find out which type of university suits you, challenges Eleanor Doughty

Tradition

Evelyn Waugh

Cobbled streets

Domino’s

Nine-person houses

Eddie Redmayne

Castles and cathedrals

Varsity sport

Fancy dress College shields

Gown Formal dinner

Rowan Atkinson

Big student unions

Rowing

House parties

Drinking games

Fixie bike

16-25 railcard

Internships

Battered old Volvo Big nightclubs Polo ponies Parka jacket

Tracey Emin

Sat nav The Duchess of Cambridge

Deck shoes Bus

Jack Wills

Oxfam Books

Fresh air and fields

Dr Martens Portobello Market

16 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

Barbour jacket

No buses after 6pm

Green wellies

gooduniguide.co.uk

PLANNING YOUR FUTURE

IATE UNI

YO

IF

SU

IT

A

CI

So you’re off to the big city! Did you know that Rowan Atkinson attended Newcastle University? If you think that city living is the one for you, then you’ve got loads of choice. And by city, we mean anywhere with a proper train station and truck loads of fun. But not, crucially, the collegiate campuses of Oxford, Cambridge, Durham or York. Or London. Just the big cities – Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Liverpool, the “back bone” cities, one might say. They’re the ones with the big clubs and all the fun, the ones your London mates will dream of because the rent is cheaper and you can live in a great big nine-bedroom house with all your friends. A bit like a commune, but not.

IF

IT

SU

YO U

MOSTLY GREEN BO XES

KED

UE STLY BL BOXES YOU

U YO

I

IC UT

MO

UN

You’re joining the likes of Oscar-winner Eddie Redmayne. The collegiate life is, for many, the only type of university life. Experiences differ between universities and their individual colleges, and we haven’t the space to list every single one – use Google for that. But whether you go up north to Durham and York, nearer London to Oxford, or to the Cambridge fens, you’ll have a blast. Work hard, play harder, and don’t forget to talk about rowing on a nearconstant basis. That’s compulsory. As is tourist-baiting, black tie and flouncing about in an old-fashioned robe. The “collegiates” are some of the best in the world, but just remember, they’re not exactly like Hogwarts, (much).

TIC

KED

TY

CO A

G LLE

Choosing a university is no mean feat, so we put together this grid to help you start your search. Collegiate universities, like Oxford and Cambridge, offer close-knit communities. Others are classed as “country”, like St Andrews: part of a town but in the middle of nowhere. The city universities are the “big boys”: the institutes that line the country from north to south. And as for London, it’s in a league of its own with national museums, art galleries and internships at your fingertips. The choice is yours…

DO LON OXES YOU SUIT A

ED B

KE

D

M

SY OU

S

If you’re escaping to the country, pack some car keys. Head to the University of East Anglia for a spot of creative writing, or St Andrews – former stomping ground of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, for high jinks on the golf course. Don’t count on the buses though – they’ll probably stop at 6pm. You’ll need your raincoat wherever you go, but if you’re off to Cornwall then take your surfboard too, and some jelly shoes for beach parties and barbecues. Sure, it’s not all fun and games, but most of it is. Make sure you’re always up for a laugh, because in the middle of nowhere you’re likely to be surrounded by farming types that require you to be bags of fun and nothing else. No bores allowed.

NTRY UNI

R TLY OS

OX E

U CO

IF Y OU

TI

C

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK, ISTOCK

LE B

A

gooduniguide.co.uk

MOSTLY PURP

T

If it is the bright lights of London that takes your fancy, then perhaps you’re looking for a collegiate environment on a big scale.

The University of London is made up of a collection of brilliant universities including LSE, UCL and King’s College. For thespians and creatives, there’s RADA and the Royal College of Art where the likes of artist Tracey Emin studied, plus the Royal Veterinary College for all things animal-based (and top notch team sport!). And don’t forget Imperial College for scientists.

London students are some of the coolest people around and are more than happy to escape “The Big Smoke” for tiny towns at the weekend to see their mates. If only to avoid the District line being down on Sundays.

I

ICKED

UI

N

I UN

T OU FY

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 17

UNIVERSITY OF DURHAM

18 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD

UNIVERSITY OF YORK

gooduniguide.co.uk

PLANNING YOUR FUTURE

WHAT IS A COLLEGIATE UNIVERSITY?

They come in all shapes and sizes, but it’s the cosy sense of community within a big environment that’s the common feature, says Natalie Milner Left, at a collegiate university, the college you choose will dictate the halls in which you live

T

he clue is in the name – if a university is described as being “collegiate” it means that it is made up of a mixture of colleges.

The most famous of these are Oxford and Cambridge, each comprising of over 30 colleges, every one having its own quirks and traditions, while other collegiate establishments include: Lancaster University, the University of York and Durham University.

Not only does a college dictate your type of accommodation – you’ll all live in the same building, share the same kitchens and line-up in the same shower queue – it offers a close-knit community within a bigger university establishment. And for some, this provides just the right amount of cosiness in what can be a sprawling city campus.

PHOTOGRAPHY: XXX

INTER-COLLEGE SPORT

gooduniguide.co.uk

UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE

QUEEN MARY

So what happens when you divide a uni into sections? Inter-college sport of course!

Not quite dedicated enough to set aside three evenings a week to train, on top of matches? College sport offers people an alternative to the ultra-competitive university teams, providing as varied a selection of sports teams as varsity, but with a more chilled out (but no less competitive) attitude. Netball, rugby, swimming, table tennis, badminton, rowing, tennis, kayaking, chess club – you name it,

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 19

DISCOVER RAVENSBOURNE

High graduate employment

Deciding on your educational path is one of the hardest yet most important decisions you will ever make. From primary stages right through to Higher Education, the choices you make can have a long-lasting impact on both your parents as well as you, the prospective student. For students, choosing where to study is in fact the first serious test in their adult life. With the help of family and peers you must clearly define your choices and explore various options given to fulfil your dreams.

Closely linked with industry, Ravensbourne has a strong track record in graduate employability and business creation.

A Ravensbourne degree provides students with a ‘passport’ to employment in the creative industries. Over 91% of our students are in employment within 6 months of graduation.

Today Ravensbourne also hosts more than 100 creative technology businesses alongside its student community.

These businesses utilise our leading edge technologies, media resources and collaborate with the students and industry partners.

Become a creative leader of the future Whether you are interested in graphics, advertising, animation, or considering a career in fashion, architecture or broadcast engineering, Ravensbourne offers a range of exciting digital media and design courses at foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate level. The courses are all supported by the latest high-performance technology.

We are an innovative, industry-focused university sector college. Located in the heart of London with a very modern campus next to The O2 on the Greenwich Peninsula, we are a centre of excellence, industry accredited and a Skillset Media Academy.

We believe that creativity, collaboration and communication skills are essential for today’s digital media and design companies. From day one of your course, we treat you as a young professional. We believe in introducing you to the creative industries as soon as we feel you are ready.

We do so for example through encouraging you to undertake ‘live briefs’; real projects with industry partners.

Ravensbourne champions the creative exploitation of digital technology through innovation. We ensure our graduates have the latest specialist skills in their chosen field and the opportunity to gain familiarity with common technologies, as well as having an understanding of innovations which may become industry standards in the near future.

Create your future today Ravensbourne is the definitive destination for study in the latest innovative digital media and design courses.

We proudly nurture the next generation of the world’s creative and technical minds. Our undergraduate courses are specifically designed as a T-shaped curriculum, blending practical and intellectual development. Interdisciplinary work is also encouraged, and this results in a dynamic environment that bridges the gap between the educational and professional worlds.

DON’T HESITATE. CREATE YOUR FUTURE TODAY. Visit www.ravensbourne.ac.uk to find out more about our courses, to sign up for our next open event or to apply today. We look forward to sharing with you what Ravensbourne has to offer!

W www.ravensbourne.ac.uk /RavensbourneUK

@RavensbourneUK

PLANNING YOUR FUTURE

they’ve got it. And because you all live in the same college, post-match celebrations (and commiserations) are regularly lodged in the college bar.

That’s right – a dedicated in-house bar.

Most collegiate universities have one and it’s, inevitably, the hub.

Students usually live in-college in the first year, then branch out into private accommodation to let in the newbies in second year. That is unless you go to Oxbridge, where they often cater for students throughout their degree.

DOES IT SUIT YOU?

It’s worth thinking about whether a collegiate-style uni will suit your personality.

It’s very different to a big city-centre campus. You’re a big fish in a small pond, rather than a little fish in a vast ocean. There are benefits to both environments, if you’re used to a small school then perhaps throwing yourself into a non-collegiate uni is the push you need to spread your wings.

PHOTOGRAPHY: NASIR HAMID, JONATHAN COLE, JILL JENNINGS

DIFFERENT STYLES

Don’t assume, however, that there’s a one-size-fits-all approach to the collegiate system. When you imagine a collegiate university, traditional buildings and lush green quads may spring to mind. In contrast, the University of York, comprising nine colleges, only just celebrated its 50th anniversary. In the sixties, the campus was built in the grounds of Heslington Hall, on the outskirts of Heslington Village. Colleges were built around a man-made lake and university departments and accommodation are in the same buildings – yes, you can literally fall into your 9.15am seminar, toast in hand, post-9am alarm.

Further north, the 14 colleges making up Durham University are a mixture of more modern halls just outside the city centre and traditional colleges in what is known as the Bailey – where Durham Cathedral will become your daily wake-up call. Like all collegiate universities, Durham’s halls

[

inevitably have distinct stereotypes: Trevs is keen on music, St Hild and St Bede is a rich kids’ stomping ground, Van Mildert like to give something back with DUCK (charity committee), St Chad’s is, well, small, and University College is highly sought after for its Hogwarts-esque atmosphere.

TEST IT OUT

It’s vital that you visit all the colleges you’re interested in at university open days. And ensure you do the walk to your lecture halls (imagining it in the worst weather conditions even if it’s glorious sunshine).

And you may be surprised to learn that well-known institutions like UCL, King’s College London, Goldsmiths, Royal Holloway, Queen Mary and the Royal Academy of Music are all “colleges” under the umbrella organisation of the University of London. Commonly referred to as universities, these 17 colleges benefit from shared facilities. However, you apply to, and graduate from, your college not the University of London.

HOW TO APPLY TO OXBRIDGE

If you’ve got your sights set on Oxbridge, be aware that due to their collegiate system you’ll apply to a specific college as well as for a particular course. This does not

]

Think about whether a collegiate-style uni will suit your personality. It’s different to a big city-centre campus: you’re a big fish in a small pond, rather than a little fish in a vast ocean

gooduniguide.co.uk

Above, students on campus at of Lancaster University

indicate that you won’t get into the university if a college is full, there is something called a “pool” which means if you’re accepted by a department then a college with space will pluck you out of the pool and give you a home.

And if all else fails, some of the bestformed friendships have been born out of a mutual dislike of halls! Admissions tutors know what they’re doing, and often having the decision taken out of your hands is the spontaneity that you need to make the most of your university life.

FIND OUT MORE DURHAM UNIVERSITY dur.ac.uk LANCASTER UNIVERSITY lancaster.ac.uk UNIVERSITY OF CAMBRIDGE cam.ac.uk UNIVERSITY OF LONDON london.ac.uk UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD ox.ac.uk UNIVERSITY OF ROEHAMPTON roehampton.ac.uk UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON arts.ac.uk UNIVERSITY OF WALES wales.ac.uk UNIVERSITY OF YORK york.ac.uk

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 21

ELEANOR DOUGHTY

editorial assistant and newspaper journalist

TAKE THE LONG VIEW

Follow your dreams, and they’ll follow you, says Eleanor Doughty

S

ome people set out to apply to university with a vague idea of what they’d like to do after. Others choose the university for the social cachet, or because their friends are going there, they like it, the city is nice, or because at the end of the day, they’re just looking to have fun while they’re at university, and the future can wait.

And that is sensible, eminently sensible.

Normal and totally, absolutely fine.

But when I was 16, I had other ideas.

Not content with being contrary in the classroom, and burning my copy of The Handmaid’s Tale “because it’s a rubbish book and I hate it, Miss”, I set about carving my would-be career path.

Growing up with: “when I grow up I’m going to be the editor of Vogue” written on my bedroom walls, the fact that I wanted to be a journalist was no secret. I used to go on and on about it. My poor friends.

I had always wanted to be a writer, but the thought of sitting in a room alone with a typewriter didn’t, quite frankly, appeal, so novel-writing was out. For now.

I needed something fun – I wanted the romanticism of seeing my name in print in the newspapers my parents had always read, and the gloss and fuss of monthly magazines. I wanted the opportunity to (attempt to) make people laugh, and the chance to bust open myths, interviewing people whose stories might otherwise not have been told.

Instead of applying to Trinity College Cambridge, which I’d fallen in love with, I chose London, to study English. London, London and nothing but London, and went

22 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

Share your career stories on Twitter @ISParent

for University College London, King’s College London (twice, for English literature, and language: clearly, back then, I was keen), Queen Mary University of London and Goldsmith’s. The whole central-London caboodle.

Why? Because London was where the jobs were – where the internships were, and where, crucially, The Times office was – then, in Wapping. I knew this because I’d looked it up on the Letters page, and that’s where I wanted to be. Not in Cambridge, the sleepy town much like my hometown, with hundreds of people just like those I’d been to school with, but London, which was the opposite.

[

content with not getting my own way, I was prepared to do anything to make it happen.

And it did. I went off to Queen Mary, and applied for internship after internship, job after countless job that I wasn’t qualified enough to do. While my friends went on holiday, or went home to see their parents, I worked every day of my holidays. Every half term, every Easter, every day of the summer holidays, for three years. A total dream for the aspiring hack, happy to take advantage of “silly season”, when grown ups went on holiday with their families and I could temp in their place.

I took one week off in first year to go on the hockey tour, but when this rolled

]

At age 17, I knew where I wanted to be, and that was in a newsroom. Not one to be ever content with not getting my own way, I was prepared to do anything to make it happen

So London, and three years of internships during the uni holidays, it was to be. People often scoff if the subject comes up, incredulous that I could have decided so early exactly what I wanted to do, and where I wanted to do it. But sadly, it’s true.

At 17, I knew where I wanted to be, and that was in a newsroom. Not one to be

Eleanor writes an education page in Telegraph Weekend

around the next year, I had to decline the offer. I was already signed up to working at The Sunday Times, and the opportunity was too good to miss out on.

Choosing my university based on what I wanted to be when I grew up worked. I am now a national newspaper journalist and full time Chelsea Magazines staffer, aged 22 – not because I am any better, but because I put myself exactly where the jobs were, and got a headstart.

Three years of sacrificing the “real” university experience paid off. If you know what you want to do, and where you want to do it, go for it.

You’ll really thank yourself.

Find Eleanor tweeting at: @brushingboots

gooduniguide.co.uk

S POT D I F F E

CHOOSING A COURSE

TH E R E NC E Your chosen degree course can vary widely depending on where you study it, so make sure you do your research, writes Charlotte Phillips

gooduniguide.com

CHOOSING A COURSE

CHARLOTTE PHILLIPS

writer with a daughter at the University of Bristol

CASE STUDY...

ENGLISH AT YORK

S

o here you are in the last year of school, grown from squeaky-voiced newbie to gravitas-enriched sixth former – and didn’t the time just fly past? Now to confront the delicious and terrifying dilemma of working out where to go to university.

NO UNIVERSAL FIT

Do you stick close to home or beat it to the farthest ends of the country? Head for the bright lights of an urban campus or opt for something with more countrified appeal?

You’d think those with a clear idea of which subject they want to study could scale back at least one aspect of the decision making.

In reality, however, it’s all rather more complicated than it seems. Take English and medicine. Unambiguous subjects, you might have thought, where the clue is very much in the titles.

Yet far from a one-size degree course fitting all, it’s more a case of there being a set of mind-boggling variations.

Take medicine. While the end result is qualifiying as a doctor (exam success permitting)e you’ll definitely end up as a doctor at the end of it (exam success

permitting), the way you acquire the substantial body of knowledge required to meet, greet and treat patients successfully varies substantially from course to course.

With a profound shake up in medical training, things have moved on since seventies TV series Doctor in the House where hapless students worshipped at the pin-striped knees of god-like consultants, explains Alex Kelly, a director of Unifrog, an online search programme that sifts the nitty gritty of thousands of degree courses, making comparison far easier.

PRACTICAL VERSUS ACADEMIC

“Some medical courses are much more academic, some are much more practical [and] let you cut up dead bodies from the second week.”

Chris Smith, a second year medical student at Barts in gritty east London relishes its problem-based learning approach (PBL). It translates into early contact with patients, helping students understand the reality of living with a disease. Chris has also worked with the Royal London Hospital ambulance service.

“You get assigned a paramedic mentor and get to go out with shifts when you can. It’s

Cycling to lectures across bridges and under willow trees

gooduniguide.co.uk

NATALIE MILNER 25, senior sub-editor, The Chelsea Magazine Company English and Related Literature at York has a comfy seat in the top 10 of all the university league tables, alongside the likes of Oxford, Cambridge, Durham and St Andrews. But being a comparatively young university (founded in 1963) it offers something more eclectic. Faced with a pile of prospectuses, the addition of “Related Literature” in the title stood out from the crowd – the subject is viewed through an international lens, with a compulsory foreign literature module. I chose Italian, allowing me to combine my love of the culture and translation – harking back to my GCSE Latin days. After a rigorous introduction to the language in first year, I devoured Dante’s Inferno in second and third year. I wangled a place on the “Dante in English” module too, where I was indulged with the time to explore the poet’s influence on art, film and literature.

English at York offers the breadth to push you out of your comfort zone, which is sometimes the challenge you need – who knew I would be so drawn into the world of Homer (not in the original Greek!) and Mycenaean culture?

“Adaptations” is a key word at York. I spent a term mapping the mutation of Shakespeare’s plays through time in my “Shakespeare: Text, Stage and Screen” module. So current was York’s focus, we all marched to the local Picturehouse to see Helen Mirren take on the traditionally male role of Prospero in The Tempest.

I could easily paint my experience of York with idyllic scenes of reading Romantic poetry in the park, Homer seminars in the sun, and cycling across bridges and under willow trees to lectures.

But I could equally speak at length about the woes of reading Ulysses in a week and coming to the conclusion that Joyce did not have to rub salt into the wound by writing the entire last 50 pages without punctuation.

University is what you make it – and York gives you all the ingredients to make it something quite unique.

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 27

interesting and exciting and really brings home the clinical side, your role and contribution to the team,” he says.

While there are plenty of the inevitable exams, students receive exceptional support, with tutors on hand to provide extra guidance if they find themselves struggling and in danger of falling behind.

“It’s an amazing medical school,” he says.

Roughly 130 miles up the M1, Theodora Goodwin, a fourth-year medical student at The University of Nottingham, is finding her studies equally fascinating –

The University of Nottingham boasts one of the most striking campuses in the country

even though they are structured in a very different way.

AN A-TO-Z APPROACH

Rather than starting with the patient, students spend the first and second years looking at the physiology and anatomy of each system of the body in detail before moving on to the clinical aspects.

“Instead of focusing on what can go wrong with it, initially you learn how

Some medical courses are much more academic, some are much more practical and let you cut up dead bodies from week two

CASE STUDY...

MEDICINE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM THEODORA GOODWIN 24, fourth-year medical student My original thought was to be an author. Then I discovered I was quite good at science, did well in my GCSEs and thought I’d look at medicine.

Once I’d done some work experience, I couldn’t think about studying anything else.

I knew people who’d done medicine at Nottingham and had heard very positive things about the course – one of the big things here is dissection. Another thing that drew me is that the hospital is really close to the university so you don’t feel segregated – you’re part of university life like everyone else.

There’s also the way the course is structured. Rather than problem-based learning, it’s systems-based, more of a buildingblock approach and less abstract which really appealed to me.

28 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

The first and second years are lecture-based. In your third year, when you get to the hospital and are confronted with patients, everything ties together. You realise that you have the learning and are now able to put it into practice.

Another really good feature of the course is that in the third year we complete a unique intercalated BMedSci – a supervised research project – and it’s a really good extra degree to have.

This year, we went into our clinical placements and in our fifth year we have a GP placement, visiting a surgery about five times a year. I’m doing Obs and Gynae (obstetrics and gynaecology) which I love – but everything I do, I’ve ended up liking.

It’s a great course and I’d encourage anyone to do it. We have good tutors and lots of support.

Though it’s hard work, it’s also really fun and always stimulating.

gooduniguide.co.uk

CHOOSING A COURSE

the body is meant to work,” she says.

Systematic and thorough, it’s a more traditionally constructed A-to-Z approach.

“It builds confidence,” she says. “When you actually get to the hospital, it ties everything together and you realise you have all the building blocks of learning.”

Even more traditional courses have moved with the times. While medical students at Oxford used to spend their first three years immersed in pure academia, editor, writer and long-serving GP Dr Richard Stevens has recently been involved in introducing and teaching the first early clinical component at the university.

“When I taught it, it was mainly about communication and the ethics of being a doctor,” he says. “I saw it as light relief, designed to instil a sense of purpose and demonstrate that you have to tailor the medical science to the patient in front of you.”

MIND-BOGGLING VARIATION

* SOME NAMES HAVE BEEN CHANGED

Comparing medicine degrees is a doddle, however, in contrast with other subjects.

The variation in English is mind-boggling.

Shakespeare may have felt “that which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet”, but English comes in so many forms that you could concoct a best-selling fragrance out of the blooms.

Fancy a spot of creative writing? Pick carefully as some English courses (at the

gooduniguide.co.uk

University of East Anglia and York, for example) embrace it whole-heartedly while others avoid it like the plague.

A TRADITIONAL APPROACH

At Oxford, compulsory Anglo Saxon, long a bone of contention, was finally scrapped a few years back. Kingsley Amis, who likened Beowulf to “gangrened elephant’s sputum” was, it’s fair to say, not a fan. But those hooked by its still very traditional approach can’t get enough of it.

Alex Chase, a final-year English student, is lyrical about the insight into the history of the literary form it provides. “Few courses are so broad in scope and…even fewer allow you to actually consider literary periods in conversation with one another,” he enthuses.

The English course at Cambridge, in contrast, is renowned for its practical criticism. Controversial when originally introduced, it compels students to look at literature in a completely different way by taking away all the familiar signposts, removing the author’s name, date and title, and compelling you to “look at the work in itself and give it artistic value,” explains Mona Ebert, a recent graduate and former pupil at Heathfield School, Berkshire, who has gone on to complete a prize-winning dissertation at The Courtauld.

“It goes against what you’ve been taught to do at school which is always to put it in

Shakespeare may have felt, “That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” But English comes in so many forms that you could concoct a best-selling fragrance out of the blooms

CASE STUDY...

ENGLISH AT CAMBRIDGE MARIE-CLAIRE CHAPPET 25, editorial assistant, The Sunday Times Style magazine English at Cambridge takes the Julie Andrews approach: believing the beginning is a very good place to start.

Content flows from here, all the way through to the modern day with barely a detour.

There’s no way you can leave without covering the basic eras – medieval, Renaissance, Enlightenment and Victorian. Though there is the option of a Modern paper in your final year, Cambridge is delightfully antiquated enough to believe when it comes to anything post Queen Victoria, you can be left to your own devices.

You might argue that the appeal of university is to have the freedom to choose what you study, and most universities cater for this. However, there is much to be said for Cambridge’s rigid course. Though I would rather have teeth pulled out than have to read the medieval tale Sir Gawain and the Green Knight again, I am grateful I was exposed to it.

The pay-off comes in your final year, when you get a term of studying what you want. I chose American Literature but you can choose from modernist, post-colonial, classical and more.

Besides the historical narrative weaving its way through your degree, you also have other modules, reading and essays to complete every week. One course focuses on practical criticism – the discipline created in Cambridge in the 1920s as a means of analysing literature without knowing the author or the date – and another on literary theory: examining the psychological, social, political and structural readings of texts.

In third year you take a fascinating course focused on tragedy, covering the concept from Ancient Greece to Arthur Miller.

At times it felt like quantity over quality, rushing through an entire historical period in a term, but afterwards you feel the speed with which you are required to soak up this knowledge has actually forced you to up your game. As our head tutor said to us on our very first day: “You’re already behind”.

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 29

CHOOSING A COURSE

context,” she says. “There was a famous case where one of the exams was an Amy Winehouse song; you can get anything.”

OFF-PISTE THINKING

For some students, it’s the optional modules that have been truly inspirational in taking their thinking off-piste and into new areas. Lindsay Rose, now in her third year at Bristol, found studying “Dangerous Books”, a module that looked at banned

While it’s easy to get carried away with the cachet of the university, it’s essential to dig and find out what lies behind the title of your desired course. It’s undoubtedly worth the effort

books and their political or historic impact, a revelation. “It was about the power of literature and original independent thought. I felt this was what I was at university for.”

So while it’s easy to get carried away with the cachet of the university, Josie Campbell, head of careers at Ampleforth College, in North Yorkshire, stresses that it’s essential to dig and find out what lies behind the title of your desired course.

Share your thoughts and experiences on Twitter @ISParent

It pays to research your favoured courses thoroughly

It’s a big ask, she agrees. “You’re choosing your three-year course of study at the end of Year 12 when you may have no idea what you want to do or be, and there’s no doubt that researching [it] properly isn’t a short-term thing. It can take hours – even for people like me who enjoy it.”

Get it right, however, and as happy students will tell you, it’s undoubtedly worth the effort.

“It was 100% as good as I’d hoped it would be,” says Mona Ebert. “You’ve got to accept that sometimes there’s no right or wrong, the tutor might not agree with your reading. But they’re not teaching you just to be airy-fairy. They’re teaching you things that they hope you can apply to whatever you do in life.”

CASE STUDY...

CHRIS SMITH 24, second-year medical student I decided I wanted to do medicine when I was 16. I’d originally wanted to be a forensic scientist – I was a fan of CSI – and had assumed it was really glamorous.

However, when I did some work experience I discovered that it was largely laboratory-based and quickly realised that it wasn’t for me. I wanted to be dealing with real people, not repeating the same test five times over, and so opted for medicine instead.

What’s really helped with the course is the way that it has changed over the past 20 years, medicine courses have changed dramatically.

It used to be very traditional – you’d do two or three years of preclinical work which was solid lectures. Only then would you go onto the wards and have your first exposure to patients. Now Barts

30 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

uses something they call problem-based learning. It’s done very well and our tutors are leaders in medical education, very supportive and hot on feedback. It means that while you still have high-pressure exams, you are given a real sense of where you are.

You have an in-course assessment every two to three months and have to pass these before being allowed to sit end-of-year exams. If you fail any of these, you’re assigned a personal academic tutor who goes through revision techniques, checks that there are no other issues and follows you for the rest of the year. You really feel supported and it’s nice to know that your results are not all resting on one make-or-break test.

I’m probably very biased but I think that east London is a brilliant location for diversity of illness and patients, and you’ve got one of the biggest trauma centres in the country. It’s a great course – and I’m loving it!

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK, ISTOCK

MEDICINE AT BARTS AND THE LONDON SMD

gooduniguide.co.uk

Est. Over 140 years of excellence

Open Days 2015 Virtual Open Day

Wednesday 1st July Saturday 12th September Saturday 17th October Saturday 7th November Wednesday 25th November

Book your Open Day today: 01970 622065 | openday@aber.ac.uk

@AberUni_UG | #AberOpenDay

020315 - 19749

www.aber.ac.uk/en/open-days

The career resource for school and college leavers

goodbye school Hello career!

School's out! Not sure what to do next? Don't panic. Milkround school leavers will provide you with the jobs and career advice you need to make your next move.

p u n sig AY TO D

schoolleavers.milkround.com

CHOOSING A COURSE

PROFESSOR RUSSELL GOULBOURNE

dean of the faculty of Arts and Humanities at King’s College London

I

SPOTLIGHT ON KING’S

Studying an arts and humanities degree leads to a wealth of exciting job opportunities, writes Russell Goulbourne

am often asked why students should apply for a degree in an arts and humanities subject. For me, there are a number of important reasons.

Our degrees offer you the chance to extend your knowledge in an area that really interests you.

Research-led teaching at King’s ensures our degrees engage with key cultural and philosophical questions, helping us to explore the world around us and to make sense of society and how people live and work together – key skills and knowledge for future life and employment.

It follows that an arts and humanities degree opens up a vast array of different and flexible career opportunities. Many of our graduates go on to careers in journalism, PR, arts, heritage, marketing, media, government, NGOs, teaching, sales, management, research and more, within six months of graduating from King’s.

The King’s campus is situated in the heart of London

Above, the central location of King’s ensures you have the best of the capital at your fingertips

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

gooduniguide.co.uk

Why Study at King’s?

Our Faculty of Arts and Humanities is ranked among the best in the world, being rated in the top 30 worldwide (QS World Rankings 2014/15). Offering one of the most diverse ranges of subjects of any faculty in the University of London, King’s enables you to specialise in all aspects of human culture and history, from languages to film studies, from classics to digital humanities. Students are taught how to think, not simply what to think.

King’s also connects you with lots of exciting cultural organisations, practitioners, producers and policy makers in London with opportunities for learning

and internships. Our connections include the British Museum, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Royal Academy of Music, English National Opera, National Gallery, British Film Institute, Tate Modern and the British Library among others.

You’ll also benefit from the central location of King’s. The Strand Campus, positioned on the bank of the river Thames between Trafalgar Square and St Paul’s Cathedral, is at the heart of a district boasting many of the capital’s theatres, galleries, museums and music venues.

What’s New at King’s?

I’m delighted to say that we’re now offering degrees with the opportunity to learn a language from scratch (German, Catalan, Portuguese, Ancient Greek and Latin).

Intensive language tuition and the availability of joint degrees with English, history, music, philosophy, film studies and other modern languages make this the perfect choice for those who want to discover a language as a beginner.

Our new Digital Culture programme focuses on digital management, big data, social media, mobile technologies and how the digital world impacts on all of us. It will give you skills in demand by today’s employers and prepare you for roles in digital project management, social media management and website management.

With over 50 arts and humanities degrees on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

My advice would be to choose something you are passionate about! Take time over your application, talk to current King’s students or alumni and come along to one of our open days to find out more. kcl.ac.uk/artshums

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 33

Professional degrees for a career in finance University College

We focus only in banking, finance, business and related subjects, and are located in the heart of London’s financial district.

A degree from ifs University College gives you an edge in a competitive world.

• BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice and Management • BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting for Financial Services • BSc (Hons) in Finance, Investment and Risk • BSc (Hons) in Business, Enterprise and Finance • BSc (Hons) in Politics, Finance and Economics

“I really couldn’t ask for a more relevant course while pursuing a career in banking. I am based right in the heart of the City, surrounded by multibillion pound financial services organisations.

What more could I ask for?”

Cole Mills, Third year student BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice and Management

Why not come and visit us?

Visit our City of London campus to see the facilities on offer, meet with the programme team and learn more about the experience of studying at ifs University College.

Book your place for Wednesday 15 July or Wednesday 23 September

www.ifslearning.ac.uk/BSc

UNIVERSITY OPEN DAYS

University will be your home for the next few years, so take it for a test run first, advises Katie Hughes

gooduniguide.com

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 35

KATIE HUGHES education writer for national newspapers and magazines

[

Right, University College at Durham

“It’s a buyer’s market in a sense,” says Lynsey Hopkins, head of admissions at Sheffield University. “Students have a lot more choice where they wouldn’t have done a few years ago.” But that’s not to belittle the value of academic merit. The serious cash goes to those who work for it. Among those luring the best of the brains is the University of Kent, with a £2,000 annual award for (close to) straight A* grade students accepted on its courses. And freshers at the University of East London can be offered a £1,200 “progress bursary”.

If you can resist the pull of the cash, course

Open days at top universities fill up in advance, like the best hotels in high season, so remember to book ahead. And the welcome is just as polished as a plush hotel

36 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

]

aside, location should come top of the scrutiny list at open days. Ask yourself: “do you really like your family, or do you want to get as far away as possible?” advises the Complete University Guide or: “do you want to visit your boyfriend or girlfriend every weekend (or, perhaps, want an excuse not to)?” Amy Wilkins, enquiries assistant at Oxford, adds: “what people forget is that when they are considering university they are also thinking of living in that city for at least three or four years of their lives.”

Then there’s open day etiquette.

Helicopter parents who are inclined to announce: “we’ve been offered a place at university,” have to hold back. “Don’t let your parents dominate, or you won’t look independent enough to go to uni,” advises Clare, a recent open day attendee. And Linda Thompson, faculty director at Staffordshire University agrees: “One of the

ILLUSTRATION ON PREVIOUS PAGE: ANDY WARD

T

hose with a post-school passion for the obscure, such as football culture, phallic studies or natural horsemanship, may find their choice of university limited (and yes, they are all real courses). Others, with more mainstream inclinations, may not be so restricted. But both will use open days to distinguish one university from another, very often with parents – and sometimes grandparents – in tow. And with around 30,000 undergraduate courses on offer at over 100 UK universities, they could even make a habit of it!

Like the best hotels in high season, most open days at top universities get filled up well in advance, so booking is usually a must. And the welcome given to visitors is often as polished as that of a plush hotel – with branded tour guides, tight itineraries and even car parking services on offer. But with tuition fees rocketing and more undergraduate places now available, inter-university competition can be fierce.

So creative marketing (or open bribery!) is fast becoming the norm, especially outside the elite institutions. A trio of open day visits could, for instance, line the pockets of a would-be undergraduate with a substantial sum of Amazon vouchers – if they do their homework first. Bribes vary in value, with a winning “open day selfie” eliciting £100 in vouchers from Glasgow, £50 from Aberystwyth and a slightly less alluring £10 from Worcester.

gooduniguide.co.uk

CHOOSING A COURSE

Open day TIPS

1 2 3 “It’s a buyer’s market and students have a lot more choice where they wouldn’t have done a few years ago”

things that stands out about the prospective student is someone who comes up and chats to you, where they do the talking, not their parents.” And universities say that it’s interest, aptitude and enthusiasm that score well above superficialities like appearance.

But parents don’t need to feel excluded from the open day mix. Universities have wised up to the fact that big fees necessitate substantial senior involvement and cater for the older visitor as a result. Bristol, like many, occupies parents with talks on UCAS deadlines, catering and communication.

Glasgow puts on special parents’ information events to share top tips on everything from financial support to understanding student life.

And if getting to a university to see it for yourself just isn’t an option, there’s always the virtual open day for the lazy, less inclined or otherwise occupied – where,

gooduniguide.co.uk

from the seat of your armchair you can listen to students extolling the virtues of the local nightlife, lecturers selling their courses and get a good look at the environment in which you may soon be immersed. But the real thing is best.

“You learn so much about each department in a few hours that you just wouldn’t find out on the internet,” says Paul, who looked at Oxford recently. “As soon as I visited on an open day, I knew for certain that this was the place I wanted to spend the next three years,” adds Jamie, now an undergraduate at Aberystwyth.

And a visit in person may even give you the chance to do some digging into those infamous university societies. There may be a lot to learn about the Pirates Society at Sussex, the Hummus Society at the London School of Economics or even the Society of Gentlemanly Pursuits at Keele.

4 5 6 7

Single out the course tutors and ask a few pre-prepared questions – but don’t monopolise their time.

Be enthusiastic. You may well be remembered when the applications roll in.

Quiz current students about everything from accommodation to local employment opportunities.

Look behind the scenes and past the open day dazzle. See how long it takes to walk to lectures from halls.

When you’ve made up your mind, go again (if you can).

See if you still like the area on a grey day without the crowds. Most universities offer student-led tours throughout the year.

The availability of fun, part-time jobs in the area is also worth thinking about if you are planning to supplement your loan. A large number of students find that they have to!

It is your choice that you are making. If friends or parents come with you, listen to them but ask what matters to you.

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 37

RICHARD MORGAN

head of sixth form at The Perse School, Cambridge

REACH YOUR PERSONAL BEST

O

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

Starting your personal statement begins long before you draft the first line, writes Richard Morgan

ne of the biggest challenges in writing a personal statement has always been where to start. Faced with a blank page and the pressure to stand out, students often hesitate for hours – days even – about the perfect way to begin. Don’t be one of those students who spends too much precious time agonising over the opening line, and too little doing the very things that will make them stand out.

If you aren’t sure what will appeal to admissions tutors, don’t panic – there’s still plenty of time to demonstrate that you have what it takes to excel on your chosen course. Believe me, a productive summer between Years 12 and 13 will supply more to write about than you could ever have imagined.

38 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

gooduniguide.co.uk

“Super-curricular activities are those you do to extend yourself in each subject beyond the limits of the sixth-form syllabus”

MAKE YOURSELF SOUND INTERESTING

There’s a lot to be said for starting your statement with what prompted your fascination for the discipline you’ve selected. It isn’t enough to be interested though – you must also be interesting.

Your statement has two purposes: once you’ve established your genuine interest, then you need to express why you’re an interesting candidate. The admissions tutor is looking for evidence you have the passion to match the commitment their university will offer you.

How then can you make yourself sound interesting? Clue: it isn’t your extracurricular activities (sports, drama, music, leadership roles and so on) that will make you appealing to an admissions tutor. As much as they’re essential to your development, these activities actually have little influence on admissions tutors.

There’s a fine line between showing you’re well-rounded and giving the

40 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

impression that your non-academic activities are what matter most to you. By using them to crowbar in catchy lines about how your extra-curricular life strengthens your academic profile, you can undermine your application. By all means include them, but sparingly – be careful that they don’t dominate your statement when applying for an academic course.

SUPER SIZE ME

If a stated interest in your studies won’t be the discriminating factor and nor will extra-curricular activities, then what will?

This is where the “super-curriculum” becomes very important. So-called super-curricular activities are those you do to extend yourself in each subject beyond the limits of the sixth-form syllabus. They include academic reading, independent research, pursuing undergraduate taster courses or online MOOCs (Massive Online Open Course), and work experience that closely complements your

Share your personal statement top tips @ISParent

preferred university course. These avenues, that are directly linked to your academic studies but go above and beyond the curriculum, are arguably the most important discriminator for university admissions tutors.

Your thoughts on an A-level set text or the surprising findings of your coursework demonstrate to a tutor that you do all that is asked of you within the boundaries of your course. But consider the next candidate in the pile, so surprised by their coursework findings that they arranged for a local professor to address their science society. That talk prompted them to research how and why the anticipated results could be subject to radical changes.

Or what about the student who conducted independent research into the history of their local area for a magazine?

He or she will have learned skills that set them apart from the student who has absolute mastery of the textbook but hasn’t pushed beyond the boundaries of their

gooduniguide.co.uk

APPLYING TO UNI

Numerous candidates claim to be passionate about their chosen subject, so demonstrate your enthusiasm, too

syllabus. Extensive academic reading is a good starting point and part of your super-curricular profile, but that reading has to achieve more than simply complementing your current courses.

PHOTOGRAPHY: WATTIE CHEUNG, BRADFIELD COLLEGE, PAUL ROGERS

MAKE WORK EXPERIENCE COUNT

In some subjects, particularly medicine and veterinary science, a portfolio of work or voluntary experience is essential.

Aspiring medics must secure experience of working in hospitals to demonstrate their commitment to care and strong interpersonal skills, and for crucial insight into how the NHS operates.

You must highlight the work experience that will be expected, but let’s be realistic here – all viable candidates will have organised this experience. Once again, it is the super-curriculum that is the discriminator. Why not also pursue some time at a medical research laboratory or with a pharmacist?

gooduniguide.co.uk

WORK BACKWARDS

In essence, consider where your interests in the subject might lead, instead of where they began. Numerous candidates claim to have “always” had a passion for a subject but demonstration of the sheer extent of your enthusiasm will mark your application out. The personal statement of the candidate who “fell in love with history when I visited a castle at primary school” or “was inspired to be an engineer from my first visit to the Science Museum” will frequently lack evidence of their passion today and how it exceeds the curriculum that is being studied in sixth form.

Aim to channel your energy into the super-curricular endeavours that will set you apart from the crowd, rather than crafting a catchy first line in a statement.

Make the most of your long summer holiday and the chances are that you will have made yourself just the sort of interesting person that is so highly prized by admissions tutors.

The Perse School in Cambridge has a vibrant sixth form where students make a successful transition from school to university. Its 350 students enjoy challenging academic opportunities, a 10-strong university advice team, the chance to play competitive sports at a very high level and a stimulating extracurricular programme. perse.co.uk

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 41

JAMES DURANT media and public affairs officer at UCAS

CLEARING UCAS

Don’t be disheartened if you find yourself in Clearing – it’s more than a viable option, with plenty to explore, writes James Durant

I

t needn’t be a scary word, or prospect, Clearing. Finding yourself back on UCAS during the summer means there are still opportunities to secure a place on a university course for the forthcoming academic year.

Clearing is an established, credible application route and was used by a record 61,300 students in 2014, for courses as wide-ranging as accountancy and zoological management.

Our applicant survey results suggest that over 90% of those securing a place through Clearing were either very confident or fairly confident they had made the right choice of course and university or college.

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

Clearing is open to anyone who doesn’t have a place after receiving his or her exam results. The prospect of studying for a degree may only just have entered your thoughts now you have your results in your hands, but if you need to make a late

42 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

Do you know someone who went through Clearing?

Tell us about it on Twitter @ISParent

application, Clearing is the route for you.

The scheme remains open to new entrants until the end of September. Anyone who missed out on their original firm and insurance choices because they didn’t achieve the required grades also has the option of using Clearing to find a place before the start of term.

There is comprehensive information available about Clearing on the UCAS website and it will be the first place to find out which courses have vacancies. There will be thousands of courses available this year – perhaps in subjects you might not have necessarily considered. The full course vacancy list in our search tool will refresh every 15 minutes so you can be sure it’s the most up-to-date way of seeing what is currently available.

[

MAKE THE CALL

Once you know your exam results, call the universities about any vacancies that interest you and discuss why you’d like to study with them. Each course will have specific entry requirements – it’s important to check to make sure you can meet them.

While on the phone, staff at the university will probably ask you a few questions about why you’re interested in that particular course, so make sure you’re prepared to explain why you want to study the subject. Say why you would be a great fit for the course, and ask sensible questions about the content and structure, aiming to show your passion for studying your chosen subject.

Remember, it should be you, not your parents, teachers, or friends, who makes

]

With the logistics of getting in aside, don’t forget the value of studying a subject you love for its own sake, and the life-changing opportunities that university can offer

gooduniguide.co.uk

APPLYING TO UNI

that phone call. After all, it’s you that will hopefully soon be studying on the course.

BACK ON TRACK

Staying positive will put you on the front foot if you’re looking for a place in Clearing. Remember that the best way to succeed is to prepare thoroughly, then call universities and colleges for a discussion about the courses you’re interested in.

You’ll find all the information you need on the UCAS website.

If a university or college offers you a provisional place, it’s likely you’ll be given a deadline for making a formal commitment to that course in Track, by adding it as a Clearing choice. You can only make one choice at a time.

Remember, if you haven’t discussed your application with the university first, it’s very likely to delay the process. It is important not to rush into a decision, to research courses thoroughly, and speak to those who know you best.

Just keep smiling – be prepared and Clearing will be a breeze!

options are on offer while still holding onto their confirmed place. It’s used by a relatively small number of students because it’s a significant step to switch university or college at this point. Even if they’ve done better than expected, most students remain committed to going to their first-choice university. After all, this is where they’ve researched the course, attended open days, and forged relationships with current students or other applicants.

Students considering using Adjustment need to think about the practical implications; UCAS encourages all students who are considering adjusting to talk to their school or college to help decide if a move is right for them.

DEGREES OF MOTION

It’s important to remember a degree is necessary for entry to a number of professions and opens doors to a greater range of other opportunities. Research from the Institute of Education shows that more than a quarter of jobs are now only available to graduates, and government statistics show that graduates continue to earn more over their lifetimes than non-graduates. A recent release from the Office for National Statistics also indicated that you are more likely to be in employment if you hold a qualification at degree level or above.

But above all of the logistics, don’t forget the value of studying a subject you love for its own sake and the life-changing

BIG ADJUSTMENT

“Staying positive will put you on the front foot if you’re in Clearing”

gooduniguide.co.uk

opportunities that going to university offers. These go so far beyond study – the opportunity to live and learn with people from other countries and backgrounds is like nothing else.

UCAS advisers are available on social media all year round, giving students access to the latest information. UCAS encourages both students and parents to sign up to its regular newsletters and it also connects applicants direct with universities who have places available, using targeted mailings.

Remember, if you can’t find a course you really want to study, you can reapply next year – the UCAS website will also have details of courses starting in 2016.

PHOTOGRAPHY: BADMINTON SCHOOL, ST SWITHUN’S SCHOOL, UCAS

If you achieved better results than expected, and exceeded the conditions of your original firm choice, a process called Adjustment is available to you. This is for students who want to see what other

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 43

Independant_Layout 1 23/02/2015 09:28 Page 1

SUMMER TENNIS CAMPS 28th June to 30 August 2015

Exclusive reader offer

10% off

all UK resi tennis camp dential s in 2015

Residential and day camps • Singles and doubles tournaments • The UK’s finest grass court camps, established in 1981 • 5 hours of intensive tennis coaching per day • NEW Performance training programme for advanced players LONDON OXFORD YORK SHIRE

020 7603 2422 info@marksontennis.com www.marksontennis.com

What will you do on your gap year?

University not for you? Why not do a 1 year, full time course which offers REAL career potential?

TRAVEL, WORK & VOLUNTEER AFRICA, ASIA, LATIN AMERICA & CARIBBEAN

- Teaching & Childcare

- Horse Safari

- Conservation Projects

- Law, Business,

- Community Building

theleap theleap.co.uk 44 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

Tante Marie Culinary Academy and training restaurant is just 20 minutes from central London by train. Our internationally acclaimed Cordon Bleu Diploma graduates can take up a paid position in The Restaurant at Tante Marie, where they will study for a Level 5 Hospitality Management qualification, as part of a full time employment package! £1,000 discount off Diploma course fee for ISP readers who quote ‘ISPSPRING15’ when booking!

Imagine the possibilities: food journalism, private catering, events management, chef at a top restaurant or even running your own successful food business.

Media & Medical

Learn skills that will give you a job for life... at Tante Marie Culinary Academy.

14

40

countries

programmes

gooduniguide.co.uk

GAP YEAR

LOUISE PRIOR head of PR at STA Travel

LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN Using travel to broaden your skill set is a great way to make your CV stand out, writes Louise Prior

D

ancing until dawn at one of the hottest European festivals, working in a chic Sydney bar, volunteering with under-privileged children in Brazil and chilling out on postcard-perfect beaches in Asia. Which do you want to do on your gap year?

If you think you have to choose only a couple then you’re wrong, because STA Travel, the world’s leading student and

gooduniguide.co.uk

youth travel company can tailor you an itinerary to encapsulate all of these things, and more. The world is your oyster!

Young people have used travel to broaden their horizons for many years, however, using travel to broaden your skill set and employability is one of the smartest ways of making your CV stand out.

There has been a rise of more than one-third in the number of students heading overseas to work, study and take part in volunteer projects in the past 12 months. Young people see travel as an

Above, there has been an increase in the number of students going overseas to work and study

alternative means of bolstering their CV and skill set in a bid to appeal to future employers or university interview panels.

Gap year travel – even “snap gaps” of a few months rather than a full year – has never been so meticulously planned.

Today’s trips are often arranged for a specific reason, such as to take part in a volunteer project, go to a festival or go on a language or skill course overseas.

Taking part in these sorts of projects is a valuable addition to a CV, there is more than just good grades to consider when

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 45

XXXXX XXXX

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK, SHUTTERSTOCK

An“open jaw” route means that you can fly into one destination and out of another

it comes to impressing a university entrance board or employer – travelling broadens your mind and your horizons.

STA Travel has options to work in Australia or New Zealand under working holiday visa schemes, or to take part in work programmes in the USA and Canada, and these are proving tantalisingly tempting for young people looking to earn while they travel.

And it’s not just the travel elements we can help with, our travel experts can offer advice with everything to do with a gap trip from working holiday visas in Australia, to jobs while travelling, to tax rebates on return to the UK, to multiflex passes which allow flights changes to a planned itinerary mid-trip.

The job market is still very tough for young people in the UK. More and more people are taking the opportunity to head off on a gap-year trip to widen both their work and life experience, and bolster their all-important CV with overseas work experience. For example, at STA we’ve seen a 10% increase in sales of Working Holiday Visas for Australia compared to last summer, and a 16% increase for the same in New Zealand.

[

The key five gap year destinations for STA Travel UK are: Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Thailand and Peru, which form the staple parts of most people’s gap-year experience. However, there’s a new wave of destinations coming through as young travellers look to break away from the gap pack and experience something different.

DESTINATION PLUS

Iceland is our fastest growing destination as people are stopping off there on their way to, or way back from, the east coast of the USA. It’s a fascinating country, especially if you’re there for the Northern Lights, and, post-banking crash, it has never been more affordable.

Bali, Manila, the Philippines and Borneo are all seeing growth too this year as gappers look beyond the usual Asian itineraries in search of more off-thebeaten-track destinations.

Our customers do a lot of research, talk to lots of their friends as well as the travel

]

At STA Travel we offer work in Australia or New Zealand under Working Holiday Visa schemes, or to take part in work programmes in both the United States and Canada

46 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

STA has found that young people are in search of more off-thebeaten-track destinations

VIPE Traveler app, £0.99

experts in our stores, and so are knowledgable and keen to explore new destinations which might not feature in the traditional gap-year itinerary.

South Africa is drawing more attention this year, with Cape Town and Windhoek seeing a boost in numbers. Historically, South Africa hasn’t been a big gap year destination but it’s now becoming used as an international hub to explore more of Africa and on to the Far East.

Getting to see more of each destination is important to the gap-year traveller, with overland travel arrangements being favoured over domestic or short-hop flights by those on long trips.

This year has seen a move towards “open jaw” routes for our customers, for example, flying into Bangkok and out of Singapore, and making the journey overland. People on longer trips would rather take a bus, train or boat so as to see more of a destination rather than booking lots of internal flights.

Our customers are looking for a more immersive itinerary, a gap year is no longer just a time to tick countries off your bucket list. So get out there, and start your adventure!

Download the new VIPE Traveler app for its extensive directory of tourist essentials, medical facilities and one-touch emergency services.

gooduniguide.co.uk

NICHOLA MALTON assessment services manager, Student Finance England

ASSESS, PAY AND REPAY

Nichola Malton explains the key steps when applying for, and repaying, your tuition fees and maintenance loans

48 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

gooduniguide.co.uk

STRATEGIC PLANNING

O

nce you’re studying you’ll have two main costs – tuition fees and living costs and there is a range of student finance that can help you with both.

Whether you are a new or continuing student, the Student Loans Company (SLC) has some useful hints and tips to help get your student finances in shape.

When the time comes, you are advised to apply as soon as possible to ensure that your finances are in place for the start of the first academic year.

WHO QUALIFIES?

There are a number of factors that affect whether you are eligible to receive student finance, including your residency status, chosen course, university or college you wish to attend, and if you have received funding for any previous study you have undertaken. You can find out quickly if you are likely to be eligible by checking: gov.uk/student-finance/who-qualifies and if you live in Wales you can check at: studentfinancewales.co.uk.

TUITION FEES AND MAINTENANCE LOANS

Universities and colleges can charge up to £9,000 (or £6,000 at private institutions) per year in fees depending on the course.

Tuition Fee Loans are available to cover the cost of the fees and are paid directly to the university or college once they have confirmed your attendance on the course.

There is also funding available to help you meet living costs, such as rent and bills. The amount of the Maintenance Loan is dependent on your household income, where you live and where you study. For

gooduniguide.co.uk

example, the amounts differ if you choose to study away from home. You can check out the rates at: gov.uk/student-finance/ loans-and-grants.

Depending on your circumstances and your household income, you may be eligible to receive a Maintenance Grant, which does not have to be paid back. Extra support for those with children and dependants may also be available, based on your household income. When applying for a grant you may be asked to supply evidence to support your application. If so, the Student Loans Company will write to you to advise and you should supply it as soon as possible so as not to delay the process.

HOW TO APPLY FOR YOUR STUDENT LOAN

The quickest way to apply is online.

Students in England should go to: gov.uk/ student-finance and students in Wales should apply at: studentfinancewales.co.uk.

When completing the online application form it is best to have your National Insurance Number and UK Passport details handy as you will be asked for this information as part of the application process. Sometimes you or your “sponsor” (normally a parent or partner) will be asked to send in evidence to support your loan application. If we need it, we’ll write to you and you must send this to us as soon as you can otherwise your application will be delayed.

For first-time students: • You do not need a confirmed place on a course to be able to apply for student finance – you can use your first choice of course and update your application later if this does indeed change.

• Keep a note of the email address you use when applying for student finance and

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 49

Fast-forward your future Accounting, Art History, Business, Communication, Computing, Economics, English, History, International Relations, Journalism, Law, Marketing, Medicine, Politics, Psychology

6 Months

Complete your undergraduate degree in just two years

We have been a leader of the National Student Survey for eight years

Small classes and tutorial teaching create a supportive learning environment

Save up to ÂŁ10,000 compared to completing your degree in three years elsewhere

97.3% of our graduates are employed or in further study within six months

There are 90 different nationalities represented in our international student community

Come to our Open Day on 3 October 2015 to see how we do things differently Applications can be made through UCAS (B90) or online through our website

For further information, go to: www.buckingham.ac.uk/fastforward

T: +44 (0)1280 820313 E: info@buckingham.ac.uk

STRATEGIC PLANNING

[

The repayment of your loan is administered through the UK tax system and each month nine per cent of your earnings over the relevant threshold is taken as a repayment

make sure you choose a password that you will remember. The most common calls to us are from students who have forgotten their password! • If you are applying for funding based on household income, you and your sponsor must provide accurate financial and personal information. Your funding can be removed if you are found to have provided incorrect details, even if this comes to light after you have started your course.

HOW WILL MY FUNDING BE PAID?

Once your application is assessed you will receive an entitlement letter detailing how much funding you’ve been awarded. You can keep up-to-date on your application by checking in on your online account by logging on at: gov.uk/student-finance for students in England and students in Wales go to: studentfinancewales.co.uk.

When accessing your account online you can also update your contact and bank details. It is important that you ensure your bank details are entered correctly and they should not be updated five working days before payments will be made to your account, otherwise you may not receive your funds to the correct account.

]

repayment. Your loan repayment is taken through the PAYE system with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) liaising with employers or the account holder (if you are self-employed) and SLC maintains your account and sends updates.

STAYING SAFE ONLINE

Watch out for fraudsters who attempt to steal your student finance by sending phishing emails claiming to be from SLC, Student Finance England or Student Finance Wales, asking you for details of personal or financial information.

Always check that you are using a secure website when submitting sensitive or personal information online. SLC provides guidance at: slc.co.uk/students/ online-safety/staying-safe-online.aspx.

Never post personal information, such as your customer reference number or bank details, anywhere online, including

social media pages or disclose them in an email or text. If you have received a suspicious student finance email, forward it to SLC at: phishing@slc.co.uk, and they will close them down to protect other students. In the last three years, SLC has closed over 500 phishing sites.

FIND OUT MORE STUDENT FINANCE ZONE thestudentroom.co.uk Packed with information about student finance, how to apply, accessing grants, getting paid and repaying loans.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE youtube.com/user/sfefilm A series of one-minute films explaining student finance further.

TRAINED SLC ADVISERS thestudentroom.co.uk/asksfe Look out for regular online surgeries to answer questions about student finance.

LIKE ON FACEBOOK facebook.com/SFEngland facebook.com/SFWales FOLLOW ON TWITTER @SF_England @SF_Wales

Once your application has been assessed you will receive a letter detailing how much funding you have been awarded

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK, ISTOCK

WHEN DO I START TO REPAY MY LOANS?

Repayments are only due once you have left university or college and are earning over the relevant threshold for your loan.

The amount that is paid each month is dependent on your income and not the amount that you have borrowed.

The repayment of your loan is administered through the UK tax system and nine per cent of your earnings over the relevant threshold is taken as a

gooduniguide.co.uk

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 51

DR PAUL REDMOND

director of student life at the University of Manchester

DAYS

DAYS

DAYS

DAYS

COUNTDOWN

To have a fighting chance of gaining a graduate job, treat your first year at university as if it was your last, advises Dr Paul Redmond

T

here was a time, not so long ago, when career decisions could be delayed until the final year of university. Not anymore. Competing in today’s job market requires planning and work experience, and the earlier you start the better!

To be successful in today’s overheated, highly-competitive graduate job market calls for careful planning and detailed organisation skills. It also calls for work experience and exposure to lots of extracurricular opportunities. None of this can be picked up haphazardly nor can it be obtained in the final few weeks before graduation. To give yourself a head start in your future career, every single one of your 1,000 or so days at university must be utilised – and that means starting as soon as you arrive. In case you hadn’t already noticed, for many students today, first year has become the new final year.

How can students use their first year in university to give themselves a positional advantage? And why have graduate recruiters shifted their focus away from final year to first-year students?

WORK EXPERIENCE

One of the biggest changes to have occurred in the graduate job market over the past 30 years is the rise of strategic work experience. This is work that points specifically towards a certain career,

52 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

organisation or job. Strategic work experience isn’t any type of work experience; it is planned and organised with one clear goal in mind. But what is important to know about strategic work experience is that it isn’t students and job seekers that are driving it – it’s the employers themselves.

According to High Fliers Research (2015) just over 30% of job vacancies with leading graduate employers will be filled by students that have previously worked for those organisations – either through paid internships, industry placements or work placements.

This might not strike you as a particularly remarkable statement. In the world of graduate careers, however, the implications of these words are profound.

For what this sentence reveals is that Britain’s leading graduate recruiters are reserving a third of all of their vacancies for students who have worked with them in the past in a placement.

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

It wasn’t always like this. A decade ago, the main reason employers offered work placements was to help students decide which career sector or industry they wanted to work in. Work experience, for many employers, was viewed as a form of charity, a bit like wearing a red nose for Comic Relief. Work experience for many firms was an offshoot of their corporate

social responsibility. It was putting something back in the community. It made everyone feel good.

And then two things happened. First, there was the economic downturn, forcing many large organisations to overhaul their recruitment budgets radically.

Second, someone somewhere did their homework. Until recently, few organisations ever took the time to trace the link between work experience, graduate recruitment and successful performance. When eventually they did, they discovered that work experience was a highly effective and cost-efficient way to gain access to the brightest and most motivated graduates and steal a march on competitors by talent-spotting excellent future recruits before they have even graduated from university.

When viewed like this, if you’re an HR manager, what’s not to like about strategic work experience? Everyone knows that traditional recruitment is costly and inefficient. Companies pay thousands hiring new graduates only to find that a bunch of them will either quit within the first few months or will be found to be lacking in the very skills and qualities for which they were initially hired.

Recruiting via strategic work experience, on the other hand, offers an excellent ROI (Return on Investment). Not only does it reduce the chances of someone leaving within the first few months (they have already gained a good insight into your

gooduniguide.co.uk

LIVERPOOL HOPE UNIVERSITY 2015 Open Days: Wednesday 24th June Saturday 27th June Saturday 12th September Saturday 3rd October Saturday 24th October Register: 0151 291 3111 www.hope.ac.uk/opendays

YOUR FUTURE STARTS WITH HOPE

STRATEGIC PLANNING

organisation while on placement), the employer will have had lots of chances during the placement to assess the potential candidate’s skills and abilities.

The next time you see an advert with the words “three-month work placement”, what it really means is that it is a “threemonth job interview”.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISTOCK

UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE

It’s not just employers who have been taken by surprise by the rise of strategic work placements. Many universities have also been slow off the mark. Before the economic crunch, students were often advised to view all work experience, regardless of its relevance to a student’s future career plans, as being of equal value.

But when seventy graduates are competing for every vacancy, Orwellian-rules apply – some placements are definitely more “equal” than others. City investment banks attach considerably higher value to students who are able to evidence placements gained in similar (or ideally, the same) financial organisations. The same applies for many other recruiters.

Fortunately, there are lots of strategic work placements to go round. In 2015, four-fifths of leading graduate employers are offering paid work experience placements for university students. This equates to around 13,000 opportunities.

For employers, strategic work placements have become so popular that in sectors such as law, oil and energy and investment banking, analysts predict that almost half of all graduates recruited in 2015 will be via work placements.

But of course, there is a downside. No strategic work experience, no job. Nearly 50% of graduate recruiters have indicated that students who have no strategicallyrelevant work experience are unlikely to succeed in the competition for jobs. Note that this is regardless of a student’s degree classification. In today’s job market, no strategic work placement, increasingly means you are unlikely to be offered a job.

QUICK OFF THE MARK

Traditionally, work experience was reserved for penultimate-year students.

First year was for settling in; second year

gooduniguide.co.uk

Tell us about your work experience on Twitter @ISParent

was for gaining work experience and exploring career options; and final-year was getting down to academic work, followed by getting a job.

This year, more employers than ever will offer work experience placements specifically for first-year students.

According to High Fliers Research, over a quarter of recruiters now offer paid placements exclusively for first years. A further two-fifths are hosting “first-year only” introductory courses, open days and workplace “taster” events. Such placements are available across a range of business sectors and industries.

But don’t assume that just because they are first years they’ll get an easier ride.

Research shows that the application process for many work experience placements is as rigorous and competitive as that used for graduate recruitment. In fact, in many organisations, the two processes are identical. First-year students are required to give the same presentations, work on the same group exercises and complete the same work assignments as graduate applicants. They are also set the same equally challenging psychometric tests.

ONE THOUSAND DAYS

If students are going to assemble the type of strategic work experience that employers are now demanding, the fact of the matter is they will need to utilise all three years that they are at university.

Cramming everything into one, or even two, years won’t work. There just isn’t enough time. Most students are at university for around 1,000 days. That’s 1,000 days to become familiar with the world of higher education, join and participate in clubs and societies, take on leadership roles, represent the university or academic department in sports or other external-facing events, research, plan and compete for a career, meet thousands of new people from all around the world, learn to live independently and, no mean feat, succeed in an academic subject.

In order to do all this, and more, students need to make the most of every day at university and of these, the most critical are in the first year.

MAKE THE MOST OF

YOUR FIRST YEAR • PLAN YOUR 1,000 DAYS. Get a wall planner or diary and map out how you want to use your first term, first year and three years at university!

• REVIEW. All good plans have an element of reflection built in. At key points throughout your first year, stop, review and if need be, be ready to change direction.

• DO AN AUDIT OF YOUR CURRENT WORK EXPERIENCE. Ask yourself how strategic it is. If you have a career in mind, draw up a list of potential organisations that you might approach for work experience.

• FORGET “SUMMER HOLIDAYS”!

For you, summers are the perfect time for gaining strategic work experience. Use your two summers before you graduate wisely.

• JOIN IN. Universities offer lots of opportunities for gaining experience and skills. Join clubs and societies, plus make sure you grasp every opportunity for gaining extra responsibilities.

• TURN UP! Employers visit campuses all year round. Take every opportunity to meet with them and make sure they know you’re keen on gaining work experience with them.

Your careers service will be able to help with this.

• DEVELOP YOUR LINKEDIN PROFILE. Use the university section to find out what others from your university and degree course did after graduation.

• GET A MENTOR. Someone who will be able to advise you during your time at university.

• AVOID THE SECOND-YEAR SLUMP by being clear on how you’re going to make the most of your second year at university.

• VISIT YOUR CAREERS SERVICE and ask for a consultation with a careers adviser. Everyone needs a careers interview and while you’re a student, they’re free!

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 55

WHAT TO PACK SMALL WOK

HANGERS

The best way to fool people into thinking you can cook: everything looks fancy in a wok (£33, Dexam at selfridges.com).

There won’t be enough, so bring your own – unless you favour the crumpled look (£2 for three, tigerstores.com).

DOOR STOP

BEDDING AND CUSHIONS

Don’t be anti-social on move-in day: keep your door open, as people will arrive sporadically (£5, johnlewis.com).

REED DIFFUSER

It’s likely you won’t be allowed candles due to fears about “fire safety”. Try a diffuser instead (£25, thewhitecompany.com).

COLANDER AND CHEESE GRATER

The universal step one and two towards comforting cheesey pasta (from £9.50, josephjoseph.com).

Naturally you need something to sleep on. Get some spares too for when pals come to stay (£12, habitat.co.uk).

GLASSES

You can’t serve all drinks in a mug, so pick up a set of glasses for as little as 10 Freddos (£2 for 6, ikea.com).

KITCHEN KNIVES

You’ll miss your parents’ sharp knives – so grab one of these colourful blades (from £5.99 Kuhn Rikon at lakeland.co.uk).

56 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

DESK FAN

Splash out on this handy fan, the air con could be dodgey (from £199.99, Dyson at johnlewis.com).

ALARM CLOCK

Your iPhone won’t charge itself after a night out, and no one else will get you up for 6am rowing (£8, hemashop.com).

CROCKERY AND CUTLERY

Pick up a full set and keep a few of each hidden under your bed for when friends and family visit (from £2, hemashop.com).

TUPPERWARE CONTAINERS

Useful for everything and acceptable to hoard. One of the marks of being a grown-up (£25, Monbento at bearandbear.com).

If you have images of loading the car with everything but the kitchen sink, remember, you’re moving to a place that does have shops! We’ve tracked down the essentials so you can streamline your list…

NETFLIX

Never miss House of Cards ever again – and it’ll make you pretty popular, too (from £5.99 per month, netflix.com).

TOASTIE MAKER

A cheese and ham toastie is the universal cure for a hangover, so invest (£17.57, Russell Hobbs at johnlewis.com).

TEA TOWELS

A halls’ kitchen is rarely a thing of beauty, so make yours nicer with a few coloured tea towels (£5 for four, hemashop.com).

TEDDY

Don’t believe anyone that tells you they didn’t take theirs to uni. He’s hiding somewhere (£39, Steiff, johnlewis.com).

RECIPE BOOKS

Cooking doesn’t have to be tricky, expensive or unhealthy (Deliciously Ella, £20, waterstones.com).

MUGS

Everyone has a favourite mug so take yours (or your Dad’s) and it’ll remind you of home (£10, Scion at johnlewis.com).

WORDS: ELEANOR DOUGHTY PHOTOGRAPHY: NETFLIX.COM, SHUTTERSTOCK, ISTOCK

LIVING

gooduniguide.co.uk

OFF TO UNI

Dont ’ TAKE...

STUDYING

DIARY

Pick up a nice one to scribble down your deadlines, reading and social commitments (£10, paperchase.co.uk).

NOTEBOOKS

You might not think you’ll take notes, but you will. Even if it’s your food shopping wishlist (from £10.50, moleskine.com).

DAY BAG

You’ll need a bag for carrying all your junk around – a rucksack will do your back a favour (£65, Herschel at asos.com).

POST-ITS

Handy for writing notes on the fridge and playing drinking games with. Ultra versatile (£3, paperchase.co.uk).

LAPTOP

It’s a pre-requisite for uni life, and obviously, you’ll need your own for Netflix nights in (from £999, apple.com).

USB STICK

Don’t be that person messing about with emails when you’ve got to do a PowerPoint (£9.99, Sandisk at pcworld.co.uk).

STATIONERY

You’ll get through a mountain of pens and notepads – if you’re doing it right, so stock up (from £1, muji.eu).

EXTERNAL HARD DRIVE

If you doubt you need this, just imagine your dissertation going up in smoke (from £119.95, LaCie at apple.com).

SCHOOL HOODIE

You’ll get a new one from uni quick as a flash – keep your school one for reminiscing with your mates.

A TV

Having your own television is anti-social and you’ve got a laptop for that. Plus, it’s a bit too heavy to lug around.

SOCIAL

BEER PONG SET

This American drinking game is bags of fun and makes a change from Ring of Fire (£9.49, Headrush at amazon.co.uk).

BOTTLE OPENER

FACE PAINT

Yes, you can open a bottle with your teeth but it doesn’t mean you should. Essential. (£12, anthropologie.eu).

Always useful. Like a first-aid kit, you’re everyone’s bestie if you’ve got the face paint (£8.63, amazon.co.uk).

BLACK TIE

SLIPPERS AND DRESSING GOWN

LIGHTER

A good conversation starter, and being useful will endear you to people, which is key (£10.88, amazon.com).

A KETTLE

Your halls’ kitchen will have one. So save your pennies for more important things – like tea and biscuits.

STYLE

TRAINERS

These double up as a good temporary snow shoe. Oh, and running is free (£90, Nike Free 5.0, nike.com).

gooduniguide.co.uk

Crucial for formal freshers’ events, the summer term and sports’ balls – and girls can steal it for fancy dress (£14, topman.com).

Don’t get caught outside in your not-so-hot PJs when Flat 27 burns the toast (£12.99, newlook.com).

FLIP FLOPS

Life-saver in communal showers, for wet floors and popping next door in (£20, Havianas at asos.com).

A CAR

Barely anywhere will let you park it in your first year – leave it at home and wait to start driving again at Christmas.

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 57

ELEANOR DOUGHTY

editorial assistant and newspaper journalist

STUDENT UNION EXPLAINED Eleanor Doughty explores the inner sanctum of the student union

58 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

gooduniguide.co.uk

OFF TO UNI

Left, the student union at the University of Sheffield

S

o, you’ve arrived at university. You’ve signed up, signed in and registered every single life detail. You’ve got the coveted student card, complete with TopShop or Topman discount, and you’re pretty much ready to go. You’ve done the fun stuff like organising your room… oh no, wait, your mum did that. But now she’s gone home, it’s time to get exploring.

WHERE’S THE HUB?

One of the first places that you’ll need to go is the student union. “Why?” you cry, clutching at an image from times gone by of Arthur Scargill and his merry troop of trade unionists. But don’t be fooled by history – a university student union isn’t anything like that. Not now. Or at least, it shouldn’t be.

The student union is the place where things happen, where plans are made, where people write the policies and guidelines that make your university run like clockwork. They deal in the day-today banality – the joy, the woe, the rumble-tumble of student life.

PHOTOGRAPHY: XXX

DEMOCRACY WORKS

gooduniguide.co.uk

Best of all, it’s a democracy! Every year the union will have an election to determine who you, the students, think should run it.

It’s a real election – like the general election – and trust us, people really do take it that seriously. But for you, it’s a chance to affect the things that happen in your everyday student life. In these elections, people will put through policies about library hours and how much the coffee is in the campus shops, so it’s important that you keep up-to-date with what’s going on and when.

Each union will have unelected staff working in it too, but those elected take up a few positions as sabbatical officers – “sabbs”. The president is top dog, and depending on the size of the university,

will have a team of various vice presidents (known as “vee pees”) to cover specific areas like education, welfare and societies.

TIME TO ENGAGE

The student union exists to represent the needs of the student body. It might sound boring, but it’s really important. While lots of students don’t engage with their union because it doesn’t “feel relevant”, it remains an important feature of university life.

Politics aside, the union is responsible for a lot of the fun that goes on at university, and that makes it even more vital! It runs the sports clubs and the societies – two huge parts of student life.

You can have a society for almost anything, from board games to baking, belly dancing to wine tasting. There’s Law Soc, ISoc (Islamic Society), JSoc (Jewish Society) and absolutely-anything-else-youcan-think-of Soc. If it exists, there’s probably a society for it… somewhere.

GOOD SPORT

The union also runs the sport on offer. At some universities, a full-time “sabb” is in charge of the sporting provision to make sure that everyone gets their subscriptions paid, that the matches are scheduled properly and that training is timetabled.

If you’re interested in sport, or you’re in a society of any size – particularly a small one, where you might have a role in the running of it – then an interest in the student union is not essential, but useful.

At some universities, student media falls under the remit of the student union, but at others, it has its own department. If you’re a budding journalist then the student media room should be your first port of call. Not only is it a brilliant thing to put on your CV, it’s a good way to make friends with people with similar interests.

Whatever sort of friends you make at university, make sure the student union is one of them. It will be far more useful than you think.

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 59

Undergraduate and Foundation courses at Falmouth ACTING ANIMATION & VISUAL EFFECTS ARCHITECTURE BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP COMPUTING FOR GAMES CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS CREATIVE ADVERTISING CREATIVE EVENTS MANAGEMENT CREATIVE MUSIC TECHNOLOGY CREATIVE WRITING DANCE & CHOREOGRAPHY DIGITAL GAMES DIGITAL MEDIA DESIGN DRAWING

ENGLISH MUSIC ENGLISH AND JOURNALISM MUSIC, THEATRE & ENTERTAINMENT MANAGEMENT ENGLISH WITH CREATIVE WRITING PERFORMANCE SPORTSWEAR DESIGN FASHION DESIGN PHOTOGRAPHY FASHION MARKETING POPULAR MUSIC FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY PRESS & EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHY FILM SPORTS JOURNALISM FINE ART SUSTAINABLE PRODUCT DESIGN GRAPHIC DESIGN TELEVISION ILLUSTRATION TEXTILE DESIGN INTERIOR DESIGN THEATRE JOURNALISM JOURNALISM AND CREATIVE WRITING UAL FOUNDATION DIPLOMA IN ART & DESIGN MARINE & NATURAL HISTORY PHOTOGRAPHY

falmouth.ac.uk

OFF TO UNI

TILDY ELLIS

first-year student at the University of Bristol

I

PHOTOGRAPHY: OBJECTIVE PRODUCTIONS, CHANNEL 4

n the hope of gathering some inspiring advice for this article, I naively addressed the table at breakfast. “Guys help me. I have to write an article on the things I wish I had known before I started uni, what do I say?” There was one overriding conclusion and that was: “how much fun it would be”.

As soon as you arrive at university, the “making friends” ball game begins. Instead of hibernating in your room, get talking to as many people as possible, as quickly as possible, because you do not want to find yourself in a Mean Girls situation, munching your lunch alone in the bathroom.

Encourage WhatsApp groups within your tutorials so that you can keep each other updated on work. Equally, do not rush into planning your house for the following year just because a friend of a friend has put down a deposit on a house. There is more time than you think and you need to get it right.

Money, Money, Money Budgeting. I misjudged the significance of the “B” word and I think it is safe to say that I am not alone in making this error. Multiple cheers are heard from all corners of halls when it hits the first of the month and the student loan gets wired through. It is almost impossible not to get lost in the delusion that you are a newly minted billionaire. Try not to let this fantasy run wild. I understand that you may have “never seen a guy so beautiful as the one across the bar” but you do not have to buy him and seven of his friends a drink. The best tactic is to limit the amount of cash you take out and leave your cards at home or you will embark on the slippery slope to bankruptcy.

[

Channel 4’s Fresh Meat crew

ONE YEAR ON Tildy Ellis shares what she wish she’d known before she started her university journey

Work it Out In your first year, you talk about work more than you actually do it. Nevertheless, it is important to realise the motivation that independent learning requires. At school we were spoonfed bits of information but the tables turn at university. It is down to you to find that interest that will stimulate your years of learning. Find someone to help you master the art of taking a book out of the library to avoid that traumatising first experience!

Likewise, sign up to Amazon Prime to get six months free delivery and pre-order all the appropriate books. Also, when writing an essay, teach yourself to footnote as you go along. I am yet to acquire this talent but I have heard positive feedback.

]

Cheers are heard from halls when it hits the first of the month and the loan gets wired through. It’s impossible not to get lost in the delusion you are a newly minted billionaire

gooduniguide.co.uk

Share your first-year uni advice and tweet us! @ISParent

My top tip is to submerge yourself in extra-curricular activities. The Freshers’ Fair is a must-see, not only because you get piled up with an obscene amount of 50%-off Domino’s vouchers (the dream ticket) but also to see how many activities you can sign up for. The best choice I have made is to get involved in the drama society and I have had the best time doing something new with different people.

Break Out of the Routine It is very easy to get stuck in a weekly routine so in a few weeks’ time, 40 of us are hiring a bus to go to Thorpe Park for the day. Further, if you’re like me and have been delaying the prospect of getting behind the wheel, it’s time to conquer that clutch control and get driving. A student needs the freedom of being able to road trip without having to recruit a reluctant friend as a chauffeur.

Ultimately, university is what you make it; so make the most of it. Oh, and stay healthy and stock up on Berocca!

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 61

MY UNI, MY CAREER We catch up with five graduates across the UK, to discover how they made the transition from university to the world of work 1 RUPERT MYERS Barrister, 30

Law, Emmanuel College, University of Cambridge Having enjoyed the intellectual challenge of work experience with a law firm, I decided to apply for a law degree at Emmanuel College at the University of Cambridge. I loved my time at university, but if I could have done anything differently I would perhaps have had the confidence to take another degree first then convert to law. The many extra years of studying made that seem off-putting, but with hindsight, a few more years of studying might have been fun. The subject was far less creative than I’d hoped, and much more about memorising thousands of case names and judgements. Law is a super-competitive field, and there’s probably a glut of would-be lawyers. My advice would be to brace yourself for the competition ahead, and be sure that it’s for you before throwing money at expensive legal qualifications which aren’t helpful unless you become a lawyer!

2 GREG MILNER

Trainee accountant, 23

Physics, Durham University I studied maths, further maths, physics and chemistry at A level and, due to my interest in planes and racing cars, I decided to study aeronautical engineering. My first choice was Imperial College, London, as it is very specialised in the science and engineering sector. However, once there I discovered that I didn’t enjoy this aspect of the course. I missed doing practical experiments on various topics. I knew I wanted to be at university but it was the wrong course and city for me. After the first term, I took a year out and reapplied – this time for physics as it was my favourite subject at school. I chose Durham, my second choice the previous year, for its impressive physics department and leading astronomical research. Although a tough course, I enjoyed it a lot.

However, I knew my future wouldn’t be directly related to physics but in the financial sector, particularly accountancy. I was attracted to this career for its great variety and prospects. After I graduated, I got a two-week placement at a firm and they offered me a permanent job and to finance my accountancy exams.

62 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

1 2 gooduniguide.co.uk

ALUMNI

3 KATHERINE PARRY

Sociology teacher, 25

3 4

PHOTOGRAPHY: SHUTTERSTOCK, REIJO ASIKAINEN, MMU.AC.UK, JON BANFIELD PHOTO

5

Sociology, Manchester Metropolitan University After growing up in a quiet village, a busy urban university was everything I was looking for – and the diversity of Manchester complemented my sociology degree. I spent three years studying subjects across the social sciences, from traditional Marxism to the social implications of urban planning. Part of the second year of my course involved a short volunteering placement. Despite being far more interested in reading than being involved with the community by this point, I nonetheless organised a placement in a local comprehensive secondary school. I spent most of my 50 placement hours helping children with little or no English learn to read. From there I studied a PGCE in secondary social sciences at the University of Leicester and I now teach at Bedford Academy.

4 SOPHIE FREEMAN Midwife, 25

Midwifery, University of Southampton I have worked as a midwife for the past three and a half years. While growing up I was fascinated with how the human body worked and anything pregnancy related. Following on from some work experience I decided to apply for a place at Southampton to start a degree in midwifery. The next three years consisted of lectures, placements and a lot of revising and assignments. Although a very intense course, the degree was exactly how I imagined it to be. I loved every minute of university – it opened up so many different opportunities and gave me a great sense of independence. I decided to stay in Southampton once I qualified and work at Princess Anne Hospital. I love my job just as much now as I did back on my first day of placement as a nervous student!

5 TERRI EATON Assistant editor, 28

English literature, Newcastle University Aside from entertaining the idea of becoming a lifeguard when I was four years old, I have always aspired to be a writer. It therefore seemed very natural for me to study English literature at an institution as vibrant as Newcastle University. I’m eternally grateful to my lecturers for giving me the confidence to express my ideas, whether I was unravelling The Canterbury Tales or fathoming the definition of the Cyberpunk genre. At Artists & Illustrators magazine, I take the same critical eye with me to every exhibition and artist’s studio. Better still, I have the confidence to speak up when analysing a piece of art, only now I have the added excitement of journeying through layers of paint, too!

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 63

MEMORY LANE

IIES N U R O MEM

D

escribe ACM in three words Education.

Industry.

Passion.

Why did you choose ACM? I found out about ACM through a combination of word of mouth and finding an advert in a magazine. After an open day visit, I had no doubt in my mind.

Which of yours lecturers were most influential at ACM? The many wonderful drum tutors certainly influenced me in a very positive way like Mike Sturgis, Jon Duff, and Pete Riley. Other crossdiscipline tutors too, such as Roger Davis, Nic Rowley, and Marco Meniconi were tremendously inspirational.

Have your peers gone on to achieve success in their fields?

Yes, many of them have, and I am still in touch with some of them like Ben Kennedy (drummer with Ladyhawke and Foxes); Molly SmittenDownes (singer-songwriter,

JOE YOSHIDA The freelance drummer and alumnus of the Academy of Contemporary Music, Guildford, has gigged all over the UK, with the likes of Jessie J and Katie Melua

Eurovision 2014, Ministry of Sound); and Yiannis Sachinis (drummer in Brother & Bones), among lots of other really talented people.

Where did you hang out?

My friends and I used to hang out at the University of Surrey’s student union, and The Star pub, and creative arts venue The Boileroom were

good spots to go and support each other doing gigs too.

Did you get involved with any clubs or societies?

I committed to a band which kept me busy and helped me remain grounded. When my studies became overwhelming, I still had a productive outlet to practise music and everything that I had learnt at ACM.

Go with what your heart is telling you – choose your next step for the experience and not the piece of paper at the end

64 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

Did you keep up to date with your assignments?

Surprisingly, for the most part I remained very much ahead of the game when it came to

Above, Joe has drummed at Glastonbury, on The Graham Norton Show and now teaches at ACM acm.ac.uk

What qualification did you come away with?

I am very proud to say that I earned a higher diploma with distinction, and a first-class bachelor’s degree in the three years I studied at ACM. Did you know what you wanted to do when you graduated from ACM? I knew exactly what I wanted to do – play drums and make music for a living – and nothing makes me happier than doing that now. ACM taught me that while you can always follow your ultimate dreams, there are more than enough avenues to pursue in order to make a living out of what you do best.

What advice would you give to departing sixth formers?

Go with what your heart is telling you! You make your education, not just the institution, and you pave the path of your life. Whatever you decide to do, if it really is something that you want to be doing, it won’t be a chore to pick yourself up when you fall.

It’s important to do what you believe in and what you are passionate about.

Any last words?

Choose your next step for the experience and not the piece of paper that you get at the end.

Every step you take along the way ultimately points in the direction of the future you desire the most.

PHOTOGRAPHY: UTTERMEDIA

What course did you study?

I did a Higher Diploma in contemporary music performance (2003/4), and then BA(Hons) contemporary popular music (2004/6).

submissions. However, having said that, I would be lying to say that there weren’t any last-minute efforts!

gooduniguide.co.uk

KNOWN FOR 821 WORLD CLASS EXPERTS 3 BOOKER PRIZE NOVELISTS 2 NOBEL PRIZE WINNERS 1 TIME LORD Excellent teaching and academic support.

One of the reasons why we’re KNOWN FOR OUR STUDENT EXPERIENCE. Explore life as it could be, join us on Saturday 20 June 2015, Saturday 4 July 2015, Saturday 12 September 2015 & Saturday 24 October 2015

Book an open day www.uea.ac.uk/openday

MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN BE SUCCESSFUL Choosing a university is about more than just the next three years of your life. It’s how it all begins.

At the University of South Wales, we do all we can to help you be successful. As well as exciting degrees and state-of-the-art facilities, we help you prepare for graduate employment and offer award-winning support.

OPEN DAYS 2015 SATURDAY 4 JULY WEDNESDAY 16 SEPTEMBER SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER SATURDAY 21 NOVEMBER

To find out more about our undergraduate courses, book your place on an Open Day.

03455 76 77 78

www.southwales.ac.uk/opendays The University of South Wales is a registered charity. Registration No. 1140312

DIRECTORY

The Good Universities Guide This map illustrates the location of some of the universities advertising in our guide.

Turn over for a full directory of universities and higher education colleges.

1

Condé Nast College – London

2 IFS University College – London 3 King’s College London – London 4 Ravensbourne – London 5 New College of the Humanities – London 6 Plymouth University – Plymouth 7 University of Buckingham – Buckinghamshire 8 Lancaster University – Lancaster 9 Liverpool Hope University – Liverpool 10 University of Wales – Wales 11 Swansea University – Wales 12 Aberystwyth University – Wales

8

13 University of South Wales – Wales

9

14 University of Winchester – Hampshire

12

7

11 10 13

2 1 4 5 3

14

6

gooduniguide.co.uk

SPRING 2015 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | 67

DIRECTORY

London

Greater London 360 GSP College

Wembley, HA9 6DE www.360gsp.com 020 8672 4151

Higher education college

British School of Osteopathy London, SE1 0BQ www.bso.ac.uk 020 7407 0222

Higher education college

Burlington School London, SW6 5AA

www.burlingtonschool.co.uk 020 7736 9621

5E College of London

Higher education college

www.5ecollege.net 020 8885 9446

London, N19 4AG

London, N17 8JL

Higher education college

Academy of the Science of Acting and Directing London, N19 4AJ

www.scienceofacting.com 020 7272 0027 Higher education college

Active Learning

London, SW5 9RD

www.active-learning.co.uk 020 7370 4755 Higher education college

Alchemea College of Audio Engineering London, N1 8QG

www.alchemea.com 020 7359 3986 Higher education college

American Intercontinental University London, W1U 4RY

www.aiulondon.ac.uk 020 7467 5600 University

Birkbeck, University of London

Byam Shaw School of Art 020 7514 2350

Higher education college

Camberwell College of Arts London, SE5 8UF

www.camberwell.arts.ac.uk 020 7514 6302 University

CECOS London College London, N1 2PB

www.cecos.co.uk 020 7359 3316

Higher education college

Chelsea College of Art & Design London, SW1P 4JU

Higher education college

British College of Osteopathic Medicine London, NW3 5HR www.bcom.ac.uk 020 7435 7830

Higher education college

University

EC London

HULT International Business School

London, NW1 1AD www.ecenglish.com 020 7242 3787

Higher education college

EF International Language Schools London, SE1 8SS 08707 200708

Higher education college

ELS Language Centres

English Language Training London, SW4 0JY

www.elt-online.co.uk 020 7622 7254 Higher education college

University

The College of Teachers

www.eche.co.uk 020 8800 1200

Higher education college

London, W1D 4DR

Higher education college

Conservatoire for Dance & Drama London, WC1H 9JJ www.cdd.ac.uk 020 7387 5101

Higher education college

The Courtauld Institute of Art London, WC2R 0RN www.courtauld.ac.uk 020 7872 0220

Frances King School of English London, SW7 4SS

www.francesking.co.uk 020 7870 6533 Higher education college

Goldsmiths College University of London

University

Institute of Education London London, WC1H 0AL www.ioe.ac.uk 020 7612 6000

Higher education college

Institute of Historical Research London, WC1E 7HU www.history.ac.uk 020 7862 8740

International House

www.ihlondon.com 020 7611 2400

Higher education college

Islamic College

London, NW10 2SW

www.islamic-college.ac.uk 020 8451 9993 Higher education college

London, SE14 6NW

Kaplan Holborn College

University

www.holborncollege.ac.uk 020 3411 3968

www.goldsmiths.ac.uk 020 7919 7171

Greenwich School of Management

London, SE1 1HR

Higher education college

London, SE10 8RD

Kensington College of Business

Higher education college

www.kensingtoncoll.ac.uk 020 7404 6330

www.gsm.org.uk 020 8516 7800

www.bite.ac.uk 020 8552 3071

www.discoverysummer.co.uk 020 7937 1199

www.gsmd.ac.uk 020 7628 2571

68 | the good universities guide | spring 2015

London, SW7 2AZ

London, WC2B 5LQ

Discovery Summer Higher education college

University College

Higher education college

Guildhall School of Music & Drama

Higher education college

www.ifslearning.ac.uk 020 7337 6293

University

University

London, W8 5EA

London, EC3R 8LJ

London, N15 4EY

British Institute of Technology & E-commerce London, E7 9HZ

ifs University College

www3.imperial.ac.uk 020 7589 5111

European College for Higher Education

www.collegeofteachers.ac.uk 020 7911 5536

Higher education college

Higher education college

Higher education college

London, WC1H 0AL

www.hult.edu 020 7636 5667

Imperial College London

www.els-london.com 020 7976 1066

www.etgs.org.uk 020 7531 7320

www.city.ac.uk 020 7040 5060

London, E1 1LD

London, WC2H 0QX

City University London London, EC1V 0HB

London, W8 5HN

University

London, E14 9SG

University

www.blakehallcollege.com 020 7252 2033

www.heythrop.ac.uk 020 7795 6600

University

www.condenastcollege.co.uk 020 7152 3435

London, SE16 2XU

www.eastman.ucl.ac.uk 020 3456 7899

London, WC1X 8LD

EThames Graduate School

CondĂŠ Nast College

Blake Hall College

Heythrop College University of London

www.chelsea.arts.ac.uk 020 7514 7751

London, WC1E 7HX www.bbk.ac.uk 020 7631 6000

Eastman Dental Institute University College London

London, EC2Y 8DT

Higher education college

London, WC2B 4AU

Higher education college

King’s College London London, WC2R 2LS www.kcl.ac.uk 020 7836 5454 University

gooduniguide.co.uk

DIRECTORY Language Link School of English

London South Bank University

www.languagelink.co.uk 020 7225 1065

www.lsbu.ac.uk 020 7928 8989

London, WC1H 9AD

London, SE1 0AA

Higher education college

University

Language Studies International

London Studio Centre

London, WC1E 7AH www.lsi.edu 020 7467 6500

Higher education college

Leicester Square School of English London, WC2H 7LE www.lsse.ac.uk 020 7839 7772

Higher education college

London Business School London, NW1 4SA www.london.edu 020 7000 7000 University

London, N12 0GA

www.london-studio-centre.co.uk 020 7837 7741

Regent’s Business School London, NW1 4NS www.regents.ac.uk 020 7477 2990

Higher education college

University of Roehampton London, SW15 5PU

www.roehampton.ac.uk 020 8392 3000

Higher education college

University

Malvern House

Royal Academy Of Dramatic Art

London, WC1A 2RA

www.malvernhouse.com 020 7520 0470 Higher education college

Maritime Greenwich College London, SE8 3NU 020 8305 8508

London, WC1E 6ED www.rada.org 020 7636 7076

Higher education college

Royal Academy of Music

Higher education college

London, NW1 5HT

Middlesex University

Higher education college

London, NW4 4BT www.mdx.ac.uk 020 8411 5000

www.ram.ac.uk 020 7873 7373

University

Royal Central School Of Speech & Drama

London, SE1 6SB

Milner School of English

www.cssd.ac.uk 020 7722 8183

Higher education college

www.milnerschool.co.uk 020 8545 0300

London College of Communications www.lcc.arts.ac.uk 020 7514 6500

London College of Fashion London, W1G 0BJ

www.fashion.arts.ac.uk 020 7514 7400

London, SW19 1RY

www.nchum.org 020 7291 1385

Higher education college

www.oxfordhousecollege.co.uk 020 7580 9785

London, N19 5SS

www.meridiancollege.co.uk 020 7317 9028 Higher education college

London Metropolitan University

London, W1D 1AU

Higher education college

Queen Mary University of London London, E1 4NS www.qmul.ac.uk 020 7975 5555 University

Quest Professional

London, SW1W 0BD

www.questcollege.co.uk 020 7233 5957 Higher education college

London, N7 8DB

Ravensbourne

University

www.ravensbourne.ac.uk 020 3040 3500

www.londonmet.ac.uk 020 7133 4200

London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine London, WC1E 7HT www.lshtm.ac.uk 020 7636 8636

Higher education college

gooduniguide.co.uk

www.soaslanguagecentre.com 020 7898 4888 Higher education college

School of Pharmacy University of London London, WC1N 1AX www.pharmacy.ac.uk 020 7753 5800

Higher education college

School of Slavonic & East European Studies University College London London, WC1E 6BT www.ssees.ucl.ac.uk 020 7679 8700

Higher education college

School of Technology and Management London, SE1 6TE

Slade School of Fine Art

Oxford House College

London Meridian College

London, WC1H 0XG

www.rca.ac.uk 020 7590 4444

London, WC1H 9PY

Higher education college

School of Oriental & African Studies University of London

New College of the Humanities Higher education college

www.litecollege.co.uk 020 8863 1555

Higher education college

020 7378 9061

London Contemporary Dance School

Harrow, HA3 5DX

www.sas.ac.uk 020 7862 8736

Royal College of Art

London, WC1B 3HH

London Institute of Technology

Higher education college

London, WC1E 7HU

Higher education college

Higher education college

www.theplace.org.uk 020 7121 1029

London, NW3 3HY

School of Advanced Study University of London

London, SE10 0EW

Higher education college

London, SW7 2EU

Higher education college

Royal College of Music London, SW7 2BS www.rcm.ac.uk 020 7591 4300 University

Royal College of Nursing London, W1G 0RN www.rcn.org.uk 020 7409 3333

Higher education college

Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists London, SE1 1NX www.rcslt.org 020 7378 1200

Higher education college

Royal College of Surgeons London, WC2A 3PE www.rcseng.ac.uk 020 7405 3474

Higher education college

Higher education college

London, WC1E 6BT

www.ucl.ac.uk/slade 020 7679 2313

Higher education college

South East London College of English London, WC2E 9SX www.sels.co.uk 020 8944 8393

Higher education college

Southwark City Learning Centre

London, SE15 6AA

020 7525 5005

Higher education college

St George’s University of London London, SW17 0RE www.sgul.ac.uk 020 8672 9944 University

St Giles International London, WC1B 5JX

www.stgiles-international.com 020 7837 0404 Higher education college

Regent London

Royal Veterinary College University of London

www.regent.org.uk 020 7872 6620

www.rvc.ac.uk 020 7468 5000

www.sclondon.co.uk 020 7704 8497

London, WC2N 6DF Higher education college

London, NW1 0TU

Higher education college

Stratford College London London, N1 2PB

Higher education college

spring 2015 | the good universities guide | 69

DIRECTORY The City College

University of East London

www.citycollege.ac.uk 020 7253 1133

www.uel.ac.uk 020 8223 3333

London, N1 6AH

Higher education college

London, E16 2RD University

The City Law School

University of Greenwich

www.city.ac.uk 020 7404 5787

www2.gre.ac.uk 020 8331 8000

London, WC1R 5DX University

The Institute

London, SE10 9LS University

London, N2 0GA

University of Notre Dame

Higher education college

www.nd.edu 020 7484 7800

www.hgsi.ac.uk 020 8829 4229

The Institute of Cancer Research University of London London, SW7 3RP www.icr.ac.uk 020 7352 8133 University

London College of Communication London, SE1 6SB

www.lcc.arts.ac.uk 020 7514 6500

Higher education college

The London School of Economics and Political Science London, WC2A 2AE www.lse.ac.uk 020 7405 7686 University

UCL Institute of Child Health London, WC1N 1EH www.ich.ucl.ac.uk 020 7242 9789 University

UCL Institute of Neurology London, WC1N 3BG www.ion.ucl.ac.uk 020 3456 7890 University

London, SW1Y 4HG

Middlesex

Brunel University Uxbridge, UB8 3PH www.brunel.ac.uk 01895 274 000 University

St Mary’s University Twickenham, TW1 4SX www.smuc.ac.uk 020 8240 4000

Higher education college

University

South East

University of the Arts Central Saint Martins

Henley Business School University of Reading

London, N1C 4AA

www.arts.ac.uk/csm 020 7514 7444

Higher education college

Berkshire

Reading, RG6 6AH University

London, W5 5RF

Buckinghamshire

University

High Wycombe, HP11 2JZ

University of Westminster London, NW1 5LS

www.westminster.ac.uk 020 7911 5000 University

Urdang Academy London, EC1R 4RP

www.theurdangacademy.com 020 7713 7710 Higher education college

Victoria School of English London, SW1W 8JH

www.victoriaschool.com 020 7730 1333

Sussex Downs College Newhaven Campus Newhaven, BN9 9BN

www.sussexdowns.ac.uk 01273 511 400 Higher education college

Sussex Downs College Park Campus Eastbourne, BN21 2UF

www.sussexdowns.ac.uk 01323 637 111 Higher education college

www.brighton.ac.uk 01273 600 900

www.reading.ac.uk 01189 875 123

www.uwl.ac.uk 020 8579 5000

Higher education college

University

www.arts.ac.uk 020 7514 6000

University of West London

www.regent.org.uk 01273 731 684

University of Brighton

www.henley.ac.uk 01183 785 044

University of Reading

University

Hove, BN3 3EW

Reading, RG9 3AU

University of the Arts London London, WC1V 7EY

Regent Brighton

Bucks New University www.bucks.ac.uk 01494 601 636 University

Institute of Continuing Education Cambridge, CB23 8AQ www.ice.cam.ac.uk 01223 746 222

Brighton, BN2 4AT University

University of Sussex Brighton, BN1 9RH www.sussex.ac.uk 01273 606 755 University

Hampshire

Lewis School of English Southampton, SO14 1LL www.lewis-school.co.uk 02380 228 203 Higher education college

LSI Portsmouth (Language Specialists International)

Higher education college

Portsmouth, PO1 2AH

The Open University

Higher education college

Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA www.open.ac.uk 01908 274 066 University

University of Buckingham

www.lsi-portsmouth.co.uk 02392 291 811

Southampton Solent University

Southampton, SO14 0YN www.solent.ac.uk 02380 319 000

Higher education college

Buckingham, MK18 1EG

London, SE10 9JF

Waltham Forest College

University

University of Portsmouth

Higher education college

www.waltham.ac.uk 020 8501 8000

East Sussex

www.port.ac.uk 02392 848 484

Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance www.trinitylaban.ac.uk 020 8305 4444

University College London

London, E17 4JB

Higher education College

London, WC1E 6BT

Wimbledon College of Art

University

www.wimbledon.arts.ac.uk 020 7514 9641

www.ucl.ac.uk 020 7679 2000

University of Cumbria English Street Campus London, E3 4TA

www.cumbria.ac.uk 020 7364 6334 University

70 | the good universities guide | spring 2015

London, SW19 3QA

Higher education college

www.buckingham.ac.uk 01280 814 080

Brighton School of Business and Management

University

University of Southampton

Higher education college

www.southampton.ac.uk 02380 595 000

www.brightonsbm.com 01273 704 463

Wimbledon School of English www.wimbledon-school.ac.uk 020 8947 1921

www.ccb.ac.uk 01273 667 788

Higher education college

Portsmouth, PO1 2UP

Brighton, BN1 9SB

City College Brighton and Hove

London, SW19 4JZ

University

Brighton, BN1 4FA

Higher education college

Southampton, SO17 1BJ University

University of Winchester Winchester, SO22 4NR www.winchester.ac.uk 01962 841 515 University

gooduniguide.co.uk

DIRECTORY Wessex Institute

Balliol College Oxford

Kellogg College Oxford

www.wessex.ac.uk 02380 293 223

www.balliol.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 777

www.kellogg.ox.ac.uk 01865 612 000

Southampton, SO40 7AA

Oxford, OX1 3BJ

Oxford, OX2 6PN

Oxford Centre for Mission Studies

University

www.ocms.ac.uk 01865 556 071

Higher education college

University

Winchester School of English

Blackfriars College Oxford

Lady Margaret Hall Oxford

www.winchester-english.co.uk 01962 851 844

www.bfriars.ox.ac.uk 01865 278 400

www.lmh.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 300

Winchester, SO23 7DX Higher education college

Kent

Canterbury Christ Church University

Canterbury, CT1 1QU

Oxford, OX1 3LY

Brasenose College Oxford

Linacre College Oxford

Higher education college

www.bnc.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 830

www.linacre.ox.ac.uk 01865 271 650

Oxford, OX1 4AJ

European School of Osteopathy Maidstone, ME16 8SL www.eso.ac.uk 01622 671 558

Higher education college

Kent Institute of Art and Design

Maidstone, ME16 8AG www.kiad.ac.uk 01622 757 286

Higher education college

Rose Bruford College of Theatre & Performance Sidcup, DA15 9DF www.bruford.ac.uk 020 8308 2600

Higher education college

University for the Creative Arts

Canterbury, CT1 3AN www.ucreative.ac.uk 01227 817 302 University

University of Kent Tonbridge, TN9 1TG

Campion Hall Oxford

Lincoln College Oxford

Higher education college

www.campion.ox.ac.uk 01865 286 100

www.linc.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 800

University

Christ Church College Oxford Oxford, OX1 1DP

www.chch.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 150 University

Corpus Christi College Oxford Oxford, OX1 4JF

www.ccc.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 700 University

www.oxfordprinceton.com 01865 250 521

Pembroke College Oxford

University

Oxford, OX1 1DW

Magdalen College Oxford

University

Oxford, OX1 4AU

www.pmb.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 444

University

Regent English Language Training Oxford

Mansfield College Oxford

www.regent.org.uk 01865 515 566

www.magd.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 000

Oxford, OX1 3TF

www.mansfield.ox.ac.uk 01865 270 999 University

Merton College Oxford

www.exeter.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 600

www.merton.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 310

Oxford, OX1 3DP

Oxford, OX1 4JD

Oxford, OX2 6JT

Higher education college

Regent’s Park College Oxford Oxford, OX1 2LB www.rpc.ox.ac.uk 01865 288 120 University

University

University

Green Templeton College Oxford

New College Oxford

School of Education Oxford Brookes University

www.new.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 555

www.brookes.ac.uk 01865 488 600

Oxford, OX2 6HG www.gtc.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 770 University

Harris Manchester College Oxford Oxford, OX1 3TD www.hmc.ox.ac.uk 01865 271 006 University

Hertford College

University

www.hertford.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 400

Oxford, OX1 3BW University

All Souls College Oxford

Jesus College Oxford

www.all-souls.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 379

www.jesus.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 700

Oxford, OX1 4AL

Oxford, OX1 3DR

Exeter College Oxford

www.kent.ac.uk 01732 352 316

Oxfordshire

Oxford Princeton Programme Oxford, OX1 1ST

Oxford, OX1 1QS

Higher education college

Oxford, OX1 3JA

www.oxfordbusiness.co.uk 01865 240 963

University

University

www.cicero.co.uk 01892 547 077

Oxford Media & Business School Oxford, OX1 1RR

www.canterbury.ac.uk 01227 767 700

Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2ET

Higher education college

University

University

University

Cicero Languages International

Oxford, OX2 6QA

Oxford, OX2 6HR

Oxford, OX1 3DW

Oxford, OX1 3BN

Oxford, OX2 9AT

University

Higher education college

Nuffield College Oxford

Somerville College

www.nuffield.ox.ac.uk 01865 278 500

www.some.ox.ac.uk 01865 270 600

Oxford, OX1 1NF

Oxford, OX2 6HD

University

University

Oriel College Oxford

St Anne’s College Oxford

www.oriel.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 555

www.st-annes.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 800

Oxford, OX1 4EW University

Oxford Brookes University Oxford, OX3 0BP

www.brookes.ac.uk 01865 484 848

Oxford, OX2 6HS University

St Antony’s College Oxford Oxford, OX2 6JF

University

www.sant.ox.ac.uk 01865 284 700 University

University

University

Aspect College Oxford

Keble College Oxford

Oxford Brookes University School of Law

St Benet’s Hall Oxford

www.studystay.com 020 8727 3550

www.keble.ox.ac.uk 01865 272 727

www.law.brookes.ac.uk 01865 488 750

www.st-benets.ox.ac.uk 01865 280 556

Oxford, OX2 6JU

Higher education college

gooduniguide.co.uk

Oxford, OX1 3PG University

Oxford, OX3 0BP

Higher education college

Oxford, OX1 3LN University

spring 2015 | the good universities guide | 71

DIRECTORY St Catherine’s College Oxford Oxford, OX1 3UJ

www.stcatz.ox.ac.uk 01865 271 700 University

St Edmund Hall Oxford Oxford, OX1 4AR www.seh.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 000 University

St Hilda’s College Oxford Oxford, OX4 1DY

www.sthildas.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 884 University

St Hugh’s College Oxford Oxford, OX2 6LE

www.st-hughs.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 900 University

St John’s College Oxford Oxford, OX1 3JP www.sjc.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 300 University

St Peter’s College Oxford Oxford, OX1 2DL www.spc.ox.ac.uk 01865 278 900 University

St Stephen’s House Oxford Oxford, OX4 1JX

www.ssho.ox.ac.uk 01865 613 500 University

The Queen’s College Oxford Oxford, OX1 4AW

www.queens.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 120 University

Trinity College Oxford Oxford, OX1 3BH

www.trinity.ox.ac.uk 01865 279 900 University

University College Oxford Oxford, OX1 4BH www.univ.ox.ac.uk 01865 276 602

Wolfson College Oxford

University of Surrey

www.wolfson.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 100

www.surrey.ac.uk 01483 300 800

Oxford, OX2 6UD University

Worcester College Oxford Oxford, OX1 2HB

www.worc.ox.ac.uk 01865 278 300 University

Wycliffe Hall Oxford Oxford, OX2 6PW

www.wycliffe.ox.ac.uk 01865 274 200 University

Surrey

Carshalton College Carshalton, SM5 2EJ

www.carshalton.ac.uk 020 8544 4444 Higher education college

East Surrey College Redhill, RH1 2JX www.esc.ac.uk 01737 772 611

Higher education college

Guildford College Guildford, GU1 1EZ www.guildford.ac.uk 01483 448 585

Higher education college

Kingston University

Kingston Upon Thames, KT1 1LQ www.kingston.ac.uk 020 8417 9000 University

Nescot College

Epsom, KT17 3DS www.nescot.ac.uk 020 8394 3038

Higher education college

Phoenix College Morden Morden, SM4 5SE 020 8648 4993

Higher education college

Royal Holloway University of London

Richmond, TW10 6JP University

Wadham College Oxford

The University of Law

www.wadham.ox.ac.uk 01865 277 900

www.law.ac.uk 01483 216 658

University

72 | the good universities guide | spring 2015

Pulborough, RH20 1DL www.chichester.ac.uk 01243 786 321

Guildford, GU3 1HA University

Cornwall

Camborne School of Mines Penryn,TR10 9EZ

www.ex.ac.uk/csm/ 01209 714 866 Higher education college

Cornwall College

Falmouth, TR11 3QS www.cornwall.ac.uk 01326 310 310

Higher education college

Higher education college

Cornwall College

Chichester College of Art

www.cornwall.ac.uk 01637 857 957

Chichester, PO19 1SB www.chichester.ac.uk 01243 786 321

Higher education college

Central Sussex College Crawley Campus Crawley, RH10 1NR

Newquay, TR7 2LZ

Higher education college

Cornwall College Redruth, TR15 3RD www.cornwall.ac.uk 01209 616 161

Higher education college

www.centralsussex.ac.uk/ universitycentre 08451 550 043

Cornwall College Saltash Campus

Higher education college

www.cornwall.ac.uk 01752 850 250

Central Sussex College Haywards Heath Campus Haywards Heath, RH16 1LT www.centralsussex.ac.uk/ universitycentre 01444 456 281 Higher education college

The College of Richard Collyer Horsham, RH12 2EJ www.collyers.ac.uk 01403 210 822

Higher education college

Saltash, PL12, 4AE

Higher education college

Cornwall College St Austell Campus St. Austell, PL25 4DJ www.cornwall.ac.uk 01726 226 626

Higher education college

Cornwall College Trevenson Redruth, TR15 3RD www.cornwall.ac.uk 01209 611 611

Higher education college

University of Chichester

Duchy College Rosewarne

www.chi.ac.uk 01243 816 000

www.duchy.ac.uk 01209 722 100

Chichester, PO19 6PE University

South West

Channel Islands

University

www.richmond.ac.uk 020 8332 9000

Oxford, OX1 3PN

Brinsbury Campus Chichester College

www.cfe.edu.gg 01481 737 500

www.royalholloway.ac.uk 01784 434 455

www.ox.ac.uk 01865 270 000 University

West Sussex

Guernsey College

University of Oxford Oxford, OX1 2JD

University

Egham, TW20 0EX

Richmond The American International University in London

University

Guildford, GU2 7XH

Camborne, TR14 0AB Higher education college

Falmouth College of the Arts Falmouth, TR10 9FE www.falmouth.ac.uk 01326 370 400

Higher education college

Guernsey GY1 2TT

Falmouth University

Higher education college

www.falmouth.ac.uk 01326 370 400

Guernsey College of Further Education Guernsey GY1 2TT

Falmouth, TR10 9FE University

St Austell College

St. Austell, PL25 4DJ

Higher education college

www.st-austell.ac.uk 01726 226 626

Highlands College

Truro and Penwith College

www.highlands.ac.uk 01534 608 608

www.penwith.ac.uk 01736 335 000

01481 737 500

Jersey JE4 9QA

Higher education college

Higher education college

Penzance, TR18 2SA

Higher education college

gooduniguide.co.uk

DIRECTORY Truro College

Plymouth College of Art

Collegerocentre Bournemouth

Launchpad

www.trurocollege.ac.uk 01872 267 000

www.plymouthart.ac.uk 01752 203 434

01202 554 426

www.gloscat.ac.uk 01684 273 999

Penzance, TR18 3XX

Plymouth, PL4 8AT

Higher education college

Higher education college

Truro College

Plymouth Language School

Truro, TR1 3XX

www.trurocollege.ac.uk 01872 267 000 Higher education college

Devon

Aspect College

Paignton, TQ4 5LH

Higher education college

Bicton College

Budleigh, Salterton, EX9 7BY www.bicton.ac.uk 01395 562 400

Higher education college

Devon School of English Paignton, TQ3 2AF

Plymouth, PL4 6AL www.sparrow.co.uk 01752 222 700

Higher education college

University of Exeter Exeter, EX4 4QJ www.ex.ac.uk 01392 400 500 University

International House Torquay Torquay, TQ1 3BB

www.ihwelsgroup.com 01803 299 691 Higher education college

Language in Totnes Totnes, TQ9 5RZ

www.languageingroup.com 01803 865 722 Higher education college

Mayflower College Plymouth, PL1 3BY www.maycoll.co.uk 01752 673 784

Higher education college

Meridian School of English Plymouth, PL4 6LF

www.meridianenglish.com 08456 733 007

Higher education college

National Star College

Higher education college

www.natstar.ac.uk 01242 527 631

www.kmc.ac.uk 01305 215 000

www.mri.ac.uk 01425 276 161

Cheltenham, GL53 9QU Higher education college

Christchurch, BH23 5QL

Royal Agricultural College

University

Higher education college

www.rau.ac.uk 01285 652531

Schumacher College

Weymouth College

www.schumachercollege.org.uk 01803 865 934

www.weymouth.ac.uk 01305 761 100

Totnes, TQ9 6EA

Higher education college

Torbay Language Centre Paignton, TQ4 5LH 01803 558 555

Higher education college

www.tisltd.co.uk 01803 295 576

Higher education college

Tewkesbury, GL20 8UQ

Dorchester, DT2 8PY

www.plymouth.ac.uk 01752 600 600

Plymouth, PL4 8AA

Higher education college

www.exe-coll.ac.uk 01392 205 222

Kingston Maurward College

Plymouth University

Torquay International School

Exeter, EX4 4JS

Higher education college

Music Research Institute

www.devonschool.co.uk 01803 666 499

Exeter College

Bournemouth, BH1 1HZ

Torquay, TQ1 3HY

Higher education college

University College of St Mark & St John Plymouth, PL6 8BH

www.marjon.ac.uk 01752 636 700

Higher education college

Dorset

Anglo European College of Chiropractic Bournemouth, BH5 2DF www.aecc.ac.uk 01202 436 200

Higher education college

Aspect College Bournemouth Bournemouth, BH4 9EF www.aspectworld.com 020 7045 5000

Cirencester, GL7 6JS University

Weymouth, DT4 7LQ

Royal Forest of Dean College

Higher education college

www.gloscol.ac.uk 01594 833 416

Gloucestershire Cirencester College Fosses Way Campus Cirencester, GL7 1XA www.cirencester.ac.uk 01285 640 994

Higher education college

Cirencester Tertiary College Cirencester, GL7 1XA www.cirencester.ac.uk 01285 640 994

Higher education college

Coleford, GL16 7JT

Higher education college

Royal Forest of Dean College Five Acres Campus Coleford, GL16 7JT www.gloscol.ac.uk 01594 833 416

Higher education college

South Gloucestershire & Stroud College Stroud Campus Stroud, GL5 4AH www.stroud.ac.uk 01453 763 424

Gloucestershire College Cheltenham Campus

Higher education college

www.gloscol.ac.uk 01242 532 000

gcbusinesshub.gloscol.ac.uk 01452 563 400

Cheltenham, GL2 5JQ Higher education college

The Business Hub

Gloucester, GL1 2LG

Higher education college

Gloucestershire College Cheltenham Construction School

University of Gloucestershire Hardwick Centre for Art & Photography

www.gloscol.ac.uk 01242 532 180

www.glos.ac.uk 08448 010 001

Cheltenham, GL51 9NB

Cheltenham, GL50 4BS

Higher education college

University

Arts University Bournemouth

Gloucestershire College Gloucester Campus

University of Gloucestershire Francis Close Hall Campus

01202 533 011 www.aub.ac.uk

www.gloscol.ac.uk 08451 552 020

Higher education college

Poole, BH12 5HH

Gloucester, GL2 5JQ

University

Higher education college

Bournemouth & Poole College

Gloucestershire College of Arts & Technology

01202 205 205 www.thecollege.co.uk

www.gloscat.ac.uk 01452 426 505

Poole, BH14 0LS

Gloucester, GL1 1HU

Cheltenham, GL50 4AZ www.glos.ac.uk 01242 714 551 University

University of Gloucestershire Oxstalls Campus Gloucester, GL2 9HW www.glos.ac.uk 01242 715 200 University

Higher education college

Higher education college

Higher education college

City College Plymouth

Bournemouth University

Hartpury College

University of Gloucestershire The Park Campus

www.pcfe.ac.uk 01752 305 300

01202 524 111 www.bournemouth.ac.uk

www.hartpury.ac.uk 01452 702 132

www.glos.ac.uk 01242 532 700

Plymouth, PL1 5QG

Higher education college

gooduniguide.co.uk

Poole, BH12 5BB University

Gloucester, GL19 3BE Higher education college

Cheltenham, GL50 2RH University

spring 2015 | the good universities guide | 73

DIRECTORY Somerset

Bath Spa University College Bath, BA2 9BN

www.bathspa.ac.uk 01225 875 875

University of the West of England Bristol, BS16 1QY www.uwe.ac.uk 01179 656 261

University of Bedfordshire Luton, LU1 3JU

Downing College University of Cambridge

University

www.dow.cam.ac.uk 01223 334 800

www.beds.ac.uk 01234 400 400

University

University

Bristol Baptist College

Weston College

Cambridgeshire

www.bristol-baptist.ac.uk 01179 467 050

www.weston.ac.uk 01934 411 411

Cambridge, CB1 1PT

Bristol, BS8 3NJ

Higher education college

University of Bristol Bristol, BS8 1TH www.bris.ac.uk 01179 289 000 University

Bridgwater College Bridgwater, TA6 4PZ

www.bridgwater.ac.uk 01278 441 234 Higher education college

City of Bath College Bath, BA1 1UP

www.citybathcoll.ac.uk 01225 312 191 Higher education college

Weston-super-mare, BS23 2AL Higher education college

University

www.yeovil.ac.uk 01935 423 921

Cambridge, CB2 2JF

Yeovil, BA21 4DR

Bellerbys College

Higher education college

www.bellerbs.com 01223 517 037

Wiltshire

Swindon New College Swindon, SN3 1AH

www.newcollege.ac.uk 08081 721 721 Higher education college

Salisbury College Salisbury, SP1 2LW

www.salisbury.ac.uk 01722 344 344 Higher education college

Sarum Theological College

www.filton-college.ac.uk 01179 312 121

www.sarum.ac.uk 01722 424 800

Higher education college

Norton Radstock College Radstock, BA3 3RW www.nortcoll.ac.uk 01761 433 161

Higher education college

Somerset College of Arts & Technology Taunton, TA1 5AX

www.somerset.ac.uk 01823 366 366 Higher education college

Strode College

Street, BA16 0AB

www.strode-college.ac.uk 01458 844 400 Higher education college

The University of Bath

Salisbury, SP1 2EE

Higher education college

Swindon College Swindon, SN2 1YX

www.swindon-college.ac.uk 01793 491 591 Higher education college

Higher education college

74 | the good universities guide | spring 2015

www.emma.cam.ac.uk 01223 334 200 University

Fitzwilliam College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB3 0DG www.fitz.cam.ac.uk 01223 332 030

Cambridge Management College

University

www.cambridge managementcollege.com 01223 236 636

Cambridge, CB3 0JG

Cambridge, CB4 5AY

Higher education college

Christ’s College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 3BU

www.christs.cam.ac.uk 01223 334 900 University

Girton College University of Cambridge www.girton.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 999 University

Gonville and Caius College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 1TA www.cai.cam.ac.uk 01223 332 400 University

Churchill College University of Cambridge

Homerton College University of Cambridge

www.chu.cam.ac.uk 01223 336 000

www.homerton.cam.ac.uk 01223 747 111

Cambridge, CB3 0DS University

Cambridge, CB2 2PH University

www.wiltscoll.ac.uk 01225 766 241

www.cam.ac.uk 01223 333 200

www.hughes.cam.ac.uk 01223 334 898

Trowbridge, BA14 0ES

Cambridge, CB2 1TL

Higher education college

University

East

Clare Hall Cambridge

Cranfield University

University

Bedfordshire Bedford, MK43 0AL www.cranfield.ac.uk 01234 750 111 University

www.ilex-tutorial.ac.uk 01234 841 010

www.trinitycollegebristol.ac.uk 01179 682 803

Cambridge, CB2 3AP

Wiltshire College

University

Bristol, BS9 1JP

Emmanuel College University of Cambridge

Hughes Hall College University of Cambridge

CILEx Law School

Trinity College

Higher education college

University

Clare College University of Cambridge

Bath, BA2 7AY

www.bath.ac.uk 01225 388 388

www.anglia.ac.uk 01223 363 271

Yeovil College

Filton College

Bristol, BS34 7AT

Anglia Ruskin University

Cambridge, CB2 1DQ

Bedford, MK42 7AB

Cambridge, CB3 9AL

www.clarehall.cam.ac.uk 01223 332 360

Cambridge, CB1 2EW University

Jesus College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB5 8BL www.jesus.cam.ac.uk 01223 339 339

Corpus Christi College University of Cambridge

University

www.corpus.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 000

www.kings.cam.ac.uk 01223 331 100

Cambridge, CB2 1RH

King’s College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 1ST

University

University

University of Bedfordshire

Darwin College University of Cambridge

Lucy Cavendish College University of Cambridge

www.beds.ac.uk 01582 489 286

www.darwin.cam.ac.uk 01223 335 660

www.lucy-cav.cam.ac.uk 01223 332 190

Higher education college

Bedford, MK41 9EA University

Cambridge, CB3 9EU University

Cambridge, CB3 0BU University

gooduniguide.co.uk

DIRECTORY Magdalene College University of Cambridge

St Catharine’s College University of Cambridge

Colchester Institute Colchester Campus

East Midlands

www.magd.cam.ac.uk 01223 332 100

www.caths.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 300

www.colchester.ac.uk 01206 712 000

University of Derby

Cambridge, CB3 0AG University

Murray Edwards College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB3 0DF

www.murrayedwards.cam.ac.uk 01223 762 100 University

Newnham College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB3 9DF www.newn.cam.ac.uk 01223 335 700 University

Pembroke College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 1RF www.pem.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 100 University

Peterhouse University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 1RD www.pet.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 200 University

Queens’ College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB3 9ET

www.queens.cam.ac.uk 01223 335 511

Cambridge, CB2 1RL University

Higher education college

St Edmund’s College University of Cambridge

East 15 Acting School

Cambridge, CB3 0BN

www.st-edmunds.cam.ac.uk 01223 336 250 University

St John’s College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 1TP www.joh.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 600 University

The Bell Language Schools Cambridge, CB2 0QU www.bellenglish.com 01223 278 800

Higher education college

Trinity College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 1TQ www.trin.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 400 University

Trinity Hall College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB2 1TJ

www.trinhall.cam.ac.uk 01223 332 500 University

University

University of Cambridge

Regent Cambridge

www.cam.ac.uk 01223 337 733

Cambridge, CB1 2AZ www.regent.org.uk 01223 312 333

Higher education college

Robinson College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB3 9AN

www.robinson.cam.ac.uk 01223 339 100 University

Selwyn College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB3 9DQ www.sel.cam.ac.uk 01223 335 846

Cambridge, CB2 1TN University

Wolfson College University of Cambridge Cambridge, CB3 9BB

www.wolfson.cam.ac.uk 01223 335 900 University

Essex

Anglia Ruskin University Chelmsford Campus Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ www.apu.ac.uk 01245 493 131

University

University

Sidney Sussex College University of Cambridge

Colchester Institute Braintree Campus

www.sid.cam.ac.uk 01223 338 800

www.colchester.ac.uk 01376 321 711

Cambridge, CB2 3HU University

gooduniguide.co.uk

Colchester, CO3 3LL

Braintree, CM7 5SN

Higher education college

Loughton, IG10 3RY www.east15.ac.uk 020 8508 5983

Higher education college

University of Essex Colchester, CO4 3SQ www.essex.ac.uk 01206 873 333 University

Writtle College

Chelmsford, CM1 3RR www.writtle.ac.uk 01245 424 200

Higher education college

Hertfordshire

All Nations Christian College

Derbyshire Derby, DE22 1GB www.derby.ac.uk 01332 590 500 University

Leicestershire

De Montfort University Leicester, LE1 9BH www.dmu.ac.uk 01162 551 551 University

Loughborough University Loughborough, LE11 3TU www.lboro.ac.uk 01509 263 171 University

University of Leicester Leicester, LE1 7RH www.le.ac.uk 01162 522 522

Ware, SG12 8LX

University

Higher education college

Ashridge Business School

Bishop Grosseteste College University College Lincoln

www.ashridge.ac.uk 01442 843 491

www.bishopg.ac.uk 01522 527 347

www.allnations.ac.uk 01920 443 500

Berkhamsted, HP4 1NS

Lincolnshire Lincoln, LN1 3DY

Higher education college

Higher education college

St Edmund’s College Summer School

University of Lincoln

Ware, SG11 1DS

www.stedmundscollege.com 01920 821 111 Higher education college

University of Hertfordshire Hatfield, AL10 9AB www.herts.ac.uk 01707 284 000

Lincoln, LN6 7TS www.lincoln.ac.uk 01522 882 000 University

Northamptonshire

University of Northampton Northampton, NN2 7AL

University

www.northampton.ac.uk 01604 735 500

Norfolk

Lincoln College Newark

Norwich, NR2 4SN

www.lincolncollege.ac.uk 01636 680 680

Norwich University of the Arts www.nua.ac.uk 01603 610 561

Higher education college

University of East Anglia Norwich, NR4 7TJ www.uea.ac.uk 01603 456 161 University

Suffolk

University

Newark, NG24 1PB

Higher education College

Nottinghamshire Nottingham Trent University

Nottingham, NG1 4BU www.ntu.ac.uk 01159 418 418 University

University Campus Suffolk

St John’s Nottingham

www.ucs.ac.uk 01473 338 000

www.stjohns-nottm.ac.uk 01159 251 114

Ipswich, IP4 1QJ University

Nottingham, NG9 3DS Higher education college

spring 2015 | the good universities guide | 75

DIRECTORY The University of Nottingham

Nottingham, NG7 2RD www.nottingham.ac.uk 01159 515 151 University

Staffordshire Keele University

Newcastle, ST5 5BG www.keele.ac.uk 01782 621 111 University

Herefordshire

Hereford College of Art and Design

Higher education college

Higher education college

www.leek.ac.uk 01538 398 866

West Midlands

01212 561 031

www.warwickshire.ac.uk 01788 338 800

Oakham, LE15 6QH

Higher education college

www.rugbycoll.ac.uk 0300 456 0047

Leamington spa, CV32 5JE

Leek, ST13 6DP

Leek College

www.tresham.ac.uk/rutlandcollege 08456 588 990

Handsworth College Corporation

Warwickshire College Rugby Centre

Rutland

The Rutland College

Warwickshire College Leamington Centre

Newcastle-under-Lyme College Newcastle, ST5 2GB www.nulc.ac.uk 01782 715 111

Higher education college

Hereford, HR1 1LT

Stafford College

Higher education college

www.staffordcoll.ac.uk 01785 223 800

Rugby, CV21 1AR

Warwick, CV34 6SW

www.rwarwickshire.ac.uk 03004 560 047 Higher education college

Herefordshire College of Technology www.hct.ac.uk 01432 352 235

www.staffs.ac.uk 01782 294 000

Herefordshire College of Technology Hereford, HR2 6LL

www.holmelacy.ac.uk 01432 870 316 Higher education college

Shropshire

Harper Adams University College Newport, TF10 8NB

www.harper-adams.ac.uk 01952 820 820 University

www.aston.ac.uk 01212 043 000

Stoke-on-trent, ST4 2DE University

Birmingham, B42 2SU

Stoke-on-trent, ST6 1JJ www.stokecoll.ac.uk 01782 208 208

Higher education college

Warwickshire Atherstone College

Higher education college

Birmingham City University www.bcu.ac.uk 01213 315 000 University

Worcester, WR1 1EE

Higher education college

Matthew Boulton College Birmingham, B74 2NW www.bmetc.ac.uk 01214 464 545

Higher education college

Newman University Birmingham, B32 3NT www.newman.ac.uk 01214 761 181 University

North East Worcestershire College Bromsgrove, B60 1PQ

www.howcollege.ac.uk 01527 570 020

Birmingham College of Food

Higher education college

www.ucb.ac.uk 01216 041 000

Solihull, B91 1SB

Birmingham, B3 1JB

Solihull College

Higher education college

www.solihull.ac.uk 0121 678 7000

Atherstone, CV9 1LF

Bournville College

Higher education college

Higher education college

www.bournville.ac.uk 0121 477 1300

Birmingham, B28 8ES

www.nwhc.ac.uk 01827 718 356

Lydbury English Centre

Bermuda Park Innovation Centre

www.lydbury.co.uk 01588 681 000

www.nwhc.ac.uk 02476 322 910

Lydbury North, SY7 8AU

Aston University University

Stoke on Trent College

www.henley-cov.ac.uk 02476 626 300

www.kingsway-english.com 01905 619 877

Birmingham, B4 7ET

Higher education college

Coventry, CV2 1ED

Warwickshire College Trident Park

Higher education college

Staffordshire University

Henley College

Kingsway English Centre

West Midlands

Hereford, HR1 1LS

Higher education college

Higher education college

Stafford, ST16 2QR

www.hereford-art-col.ac.uk 01432 273 359

Birmingham, B21 9DP

Nuneaton, CV10 7SD

Higher education college

Higher education college

New College

Henley-in-Arden College

www.nct.ac.uk 01952 641 892

www.rugbycoll.ac.uk 0300 456 0047

Birmingham, B31, 2AJ

South Birmingham College

Higher education college

www.sbirmc.ac.uk 01216 787 000

City College Coventry

Higher education college

www.covcollege.ac.uk 0247 6791 000

Oldbury, B68 0DL

Coventry, CV1 3GD

The Homeopathy College

Higher education college

www.homoeopathytraining.co.uk 01214 231 913 Higher education college

Henley-in-arden, B95 6AB

City of Wolverhampton College

Higher education college

Higher education college

www.wolverhamptoncollege.ac.uk 01902 836 000

Shrewsbury College of Art & Technology

Moreton Morrell College

Higher education college

University

Warwick, CV35 9BL www.rugbycoll.ac.uk 0300 456 0047

Coventry University Coventry, CV1 5FB

University of Central England

Higher education college

Higher education college

www.coventry.ac.uk 02476 887 688

www.uce.ac.uk 01213 315 000

Telford College of Art & Technology

Stratford-upon-Avon College

University

University

Dudley College of Technology

University of Warwick

www.tcat.ac.uk 01952 642 200

www.stratford.ac.uk 01789 266 245

www.dudleycol.ac.uk 01384 363 000

www.warwick.ac.uk 02476 523 523

Telford, TF1 1NY

Shrewsbury, SY2 6PR 01743 342 342

Telford, TF1 2NP

Higher education college

76 | the good universities guide | spring 2015

Stratford-upon-avon, CV37 9QR Higher education college

Wolverhampton, WV6 ODU

Dudley, DY1 4AS

Higher education college

The University of Birmingham Birmingham, B15 2TT

www.birmingham.ac.uk 01214 143 344

Birmingham, B42 2SU

Coventry, CV4 7AL University

gooduniguide.co.uk

DIRECTORY University of Wolverhampton Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY www.wlv.ac.uk 01902 321 000 University

Walsall College of Arts and Technology Walsall, WS1 1XN

www.walsallcollege.ac.uk 01922 657 000 Higher education college

The Abbey College Malvern, WR14 4JF

www.theabbeycollege.co.uk 01684 892 300 Higher education college

University of Worcester Worcester, WR2 6AJ www.worc.ac.uk 01905 855 000

University of Sunderland

Salford City College Walkden Sixth Form Centre

www.sunderland.ac.uk 01915 152 000

www.salfordcc.ac.uk 01616 315 000

Sunderland, SR2 3SD

Manchester, M28 7QD

University

Higher education college

North West

The University of Bolton

University of Chester

University

www.chester.ac.uk 01244 511 000

Manchester, M13 9PL

Cheshire

Bolton, BL3 5AB

www.bolton.ac.uk 01204 900 600

Chester, CH1 4BJ

University of Manchester

University

www.manchester.ac.uk 01613 066 000

Higher education college

North East

County Durham Durham University Durham, DH1 3LE www.dur.ac.uk 01913 342 000 University

Ushaw College

University

University of Cumbria www.cumbria.ac.uk 01228 400 300 University

University of Cumbria Ambleside Campus Ambleside, LA22 9BB www.cumbria.ac.uk 01539 430 274

Salford, M5 4WT University

Isle of Man College www.iomcollege.ac.im 01624 648 200 Higher education college

Lancashire

Blackpool and the Fylde College (University Centre)

University

Blackpool FY1 4DW

University of Cumbria Fusehill Campus

Higher education college

www.blackpool.ac.uk 01253 504 343

Carlisle, CA1 2HH

Edge Hill University

University

www.edgehill.ac.uk 01695 575 171

www.cumbria.ac.uk 01228 616 234

Ormskirk, L39 4QP

University of Cumbria Penrith Campus

University

www.cumbria.ac.uk 01768 893 400

www.runshaw.ac.uk 01772 642 040

Penrith, CA11 0AH University

Greater Manchester

Higher education college

Manchester, M15 6PB

Tyne & Wear

www.lipa.ac.uk 01513 303 000

Higher education college

www.salford.ac.uk 01612 955 000

Durham, DH7 9RH www.ushaw.org 01913 738 517

Liverpool, L1 9HF

www.chester.ac.uk 01925 534 206

Isle of Man IM2 6RB

www.wortech.ac.uk 01905 725 555

Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts

www.hope.ac.uk 01512 913 000

Carlisle, CA2 5UF

Worcester, WR1 2JF

Liverpool

University of Salford

Warrington, WA2 0DB

Warwickshire College

Worcester College of Technology

University

University of Chester Warrington Campus

Isle of Man

Higher education college

www.lancs.ac.uk 01524 65 201

Liverpool Hope University

Cumbria

www.warwickshire.ac.uk 0300 456 0047

Lancaster, LA1 4YW

University

University

Pershore, WR10 3JP

University of Lancaster

Runshaw Adult College Chorley, PR7 6AQ

Higher education college

Manchester Business School

University Centre at Blackburn College

www.mbs.ac.uk 01612 756 333

www.blackburn.ac.uk 01254 292 594

Blackburn, BB2 1LH

Liverpool, L16 9JD University

Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool, L3 2AJ www.ljmu.ac.uk 01512 312 121 University

The University of Liverpool Liverpool, L69 3BX www.liv.ac.uk 01517 942 000 University

Yorkshire - East Bishop Burton College Beverley, HU17 8QG

www.bishopburton.ac.uk 01964 553 000 Higher education college

East Yorkshire College Beverley Beverley, HU17 7DT

www.eastridingcollege.ac.uk 08451 200 037 Higher education college

East Yorkshire College Bridlington Campus Bridlington, YO16 5JW

www.eastridingcollege.ac.uk 01262 852 000

Higher education college

Higher education college

Higher education college

Newcastle upon tyne, NE1 7RU

Manchester Metropolitan University

University of Central Lancashire

East Yorkshire College Carnaby Campus

University

www.mmu.ac.uk 01612 472 000

www.uclan.ac.uk 01772 201 201

University

University

www.eastridingcollege.ac.uk 08451 200 037

Northumbria University Newcastle upon Tyne

Royal Northern College of Music

University of Cumbria Lancaster Campus

www.northumbria.ac.uk 01912 326 002

www.rncm.ac.uk 01619 075 200

www.cumbria.ac.uk 01524 384 384

Newcastle University www.ncl.ac.uk 01912 226 000

Newcastle upon tyne, NE1 8ST University

gooduniguide.co.uk

Manchester, M15 6HB

Manchester, M13 9RD

Higher education college

Preston, PR1 2HE

Lancaster, LA1 3JD University

Bridlington, YO15 3QY

Higher education college

East Yorkshire College Hull Campus Hull, HU3 2DH

www.eastridingcollege.ac.uk Higher education college

spring 2015 | the good universities guide | 77

DIRECTORY Hull College

Teesside Tertiary College

Sheffield Hallam University

www.hull-college.ac.uk 01482 598 744

Higher education college

www.shu.ac.uk 01142 255 555

Hull, HU1 3DG

Higher education college

The Hull York Medical School Hull, HU6 7RX

www.hyms.ac.uk 08701 245 500 University

University of Hull Hull, HU6 7RX www.hull.ac.uk 01482 346 311 University

Yorkshire - North Anglolang Academy of English Scarborough, YO12 5JX www.anglolang.com 01723 501 991

Higher education college

Askham Bryan College of Agriculture and Horticulture York, YO23 3FR

www.askham-bryan.ac.uk 01904 772 277

Middlesbrough, TS4 3RZ 01642 275 000

Teesside University University

University of Hull Scarborough Campus Scarborough, YO11 3AZ www.scar.hull.ac.uk 01723 362 392 University

University of York York, YO10 5DD www.york.ac.uk 01904 320 000 University

York College

York, YO23 2BB

www.yorkcollege.ac.uk 01904 770 200 Higher education college

York St John University York, YO31 7EX

www.yorksj.ac.uk 01904 624 624

Yorkshire Coast College

Craven College

Skipton, BD23 1US

www.craven-college.ac.uk 01756 708 001 Higher education college

English in York College York, YO1 9ND

www.english-in-york.co.uk 01904 636 771 Higher education college

English Language Centre York, YO1 8RA

www.elcyork.com 01904 672 243

Higher education college

Melton College York, YO24 4DH

www.melton-college.co.uk 01904 622 250

www.leeds-art.ac.uk 01132 028 000

www.shef.ac.uk 01142 222 000

www.tees.ac.uk 01642 218 121

Cleveland College of Art and Design

Higher education college

University

University of Sheffield

University

www.ccad.ac.uk 01429 422 000

Leeds College of Art & Design

Middlesbrough, TS1 3BA

Higher education college

Hartlepool, TS24 7EX

Sheffield, S1 1WB

Scarborough, YO12 5RN

www.yorkshirecoastcollege.ac.uk 01723 372 105 Higher education college

Yorkshire - South

Barnsley College Barnsley, S70 2YW

www.barnsley.ac.uk 01226 216 216 Higher education college

Leeds College of Music

University

www.lcm.ac.uk 01132 223 400

Yorkshire - West Bradford College Bradford, BD7 1AY

www.bradfordcollege.ac.uk 01274 433 333 Higher education college

Bradford University Bradford, BD7 1DP

www.bradford.ac.uk 01274 232 323 University

Dewsbury College

Dewsbury, WF13 2AS www.dewsbury.ac.uk 01924 465 916

Higher education college

Huddersfield University Huddersfield, HD1 3DH www.hud.ac.uk 01484 422 288 University

Kirklees College Huddersfield Centre

Huddersfield, HD1 5NN www.huddcoll.ac.uk 01484 437 000

Higher education college

Leeds City College Keighley Campus Keighley, BD21 3DF

www.leedscitycollege.ac.uk 01535 685 000

Higher education college

Leeds Metropolitan University Leeds, LS1 3HE

www.leedsmet.ac.uk 01132 832 600 University

Leeds Trinity University Leeds, LS18 5HD

www.leedstrinity.ac.uk 01132 837 100 University

Shipley College

Shipley, BD18 3JW www.shipley.ac.uk 01274 327 222

Higher education college

University of Leeds Leeds, LS2 9JT

www.leeds.ac.uk 01132 431 751 University

Wakefield College

Wakefield, WF1 2DH www.wakcoll.ac.uk 01924 789 789

Higher education college

Scotland

Aberdeenshire Aberdeen College

Aberdare, AB25 1BN www.abcol.ac.uk 01224 612 000

Higher education college

Leeds City College Park Lane Campus

Robert Gordon University

Northern College

www.leedscitycollege.ac.uk 08450 457 275

Doncaster, DN1 3EX www.don.ac.uk 01302 553 553

Barnsley, S75 3ET

www.northern.ac.uk 01226 776 000 Higher education college

Rother Valley College Sheffield, S25 2NF

www.rothervalley.ac.uk

Leeds, LS3 1AA

www.rgu.ac.uk 01224 262 000

Leeds City College Technology Campus

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)

www.leedscitycollege.ac.uk 01132 976 300

www.sruc.ac.uk aberdeen@sruc.ac.uk 01224 711 189

Leeds, LS2 8BL

Higher education college

Sheffield College

www.selbycollege.co.uk 01757 211 000

www.sheffcol.ac.uk 01142 602 600

www.leedscitycollege.ac.uk 0800 096 2319

Higher education college

Aberdare, AB10 1FR University

Selby College

Sheffield, S2 2YY

Higher education college

Higher education college

Leeds City College Thomas Danby Campus

78 | the good universities guide | spring 2015

Leeds, LS2 7PD

Higher education college

Doncaster College

Higher education college

Higher education college

Higher education college

Sheffield, S10 2TN

Higher education college

Selby, YO8 8AT

Leeds, LS2 9AQ

Leeds, LS7 3BG

Higher education college

Aberdeen, AB21 9YA

University

University of Aberdeen Aberdare, AB24 3FX www.abdn.ac.uk 01224 272 000 University

gooduniguide.co.uk

DIRECTORY Clackmannanshire

Clackmannan College Alloa Falkirk, FK2 9AD www.clacks.ac.uk 01324 403 000

Higher education college

Dumfries & Galloway

Dumfries and Galloway College Dumfries, DG1 4FD www.dumgal.ac.uk 01387 734 000

Higher education college

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) Dumfries, DG1 3NE

www.sruc.ac.uk/barony barony@sruc.ac.uk 01307 860 251 Higher education college

University of the West of Scotland

Dumfries, DG1 4ZN www.uws.ac.uk 01387 345 845

Edinburgh College of Art

Lauder College

Glasgow School of Art

www.eca.ed.ac.uk 01316 515 800

www.lauder.ac.uk 01383 845 000

www.gsa.ac.uk 01413 534 500

Edinburgh, EH3 9DF

Higher education college

Higher education college

Edinburgh, EH14 1DJ

The University of St Andrews St. Andrews, KY16 9AJ

University

www.st-andrews.ac.uk 01334 476 161

International Christian College

University

www.icc.ac.uk 01415 524 040

www.ed.ac.uk 01316 501 000

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)

North Glasgow College

Heriot Watt University

www.sruc.ac.uk/elmwood elmwood@sruc.ac.uk 01334 658 800

Edinburgh Napier University www.napier.ac.uk 08452 606 040

Edinburgh University Edinburgh, EH8 9YL University

Edinburgh, EH14 4AS

Higher education college

Napier University

Anniesland College

University

Edinburgh, EH14 1DJ www.napier.ac.uk 01314 442 266 University

Queen Margaret University Musselburgh, EH21 6UU www.qmu.ac.uk 01314 740 000

Dundee

Regent Edinburgh

www.dundeecoll.ac.uk 01382 834 834 Higher education college

University of Abertay Dundee, DD1 1HG www.abertay.ac.uk 01382 308 000 University

University of Dundee Dundee, DD1 4HN www.dundee.ac.uk 01382 344 000 University

East Ayrshire

Glasgow

Royal Conservatoire of Scotland

Glasgow, G12 0YE

www.rcs.ac.uk 01413 324 101

www.anniesland.ac.uk 01412 729 000 Higher education college

Higher education college

Cardonald College

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons

www.cardonald.ac.uk 01412 723 333

www.rcpsg.ac.uk 01412 216 072

Glasgow, G52 3AY

Glasgow, G2 5RJ

www.centralcollege.ac.uk 01415 523 941

www.gla.ac.uk 01413 302 000

Glasgow, G1 2TA

Glasgow, G12 8QQ

Higher education college

University

Cumbernauld College Glasgow, G67 1HU

University of Strathclyde John Anderson Campus

University

Higher education college

www.strath.ac.uk 01415 524 400

Fife

Glasgow Caledonian University

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) Edinburgh, EH9 3JG

www.sruc.ac.uk/edinburgh edinburgh@sruc.ac.uk 01315 354 391

Fife College Cowdenbeath Campus Cowdenbeath, KY4 8HW

www.fife.ac.uk 08442 480 115

Higher education college

Kirkcaldy, KY1 2QT

Edinburgh

Fife College St Brycedale Campus Kirkcaldy, KY1 1EX www.fife.ac.uk 01592 223 400

www.cumbernauld.ac.uk 01236 731 811

Glasgow, G4 0BA www.gcu.ac.uk 01413 313 000 University

Glasgow College of Building & Printing Glasgow, G1 2BP

Highland

Highland Theological College Dingwall, IV15 9HA www.htc.uhi.ac.uk 01349 780 000

Higher education college

Higher education college

www.inverness.uhi.ac.uk 01463 273 000

Glasgow College of Food Technology

Inverness, IV1 1SA

Higher education college

Glasgow, G1 2TG

Lews Castle College

Higher education college

www.lews.uhi.ac.uk 01851 770 000

www.cityofglasgowcollege.ac.uk 0141 2715 100

Basil Paterson College

Fife College Stenton Campus

Glasgow College of Nautical Studies

www.basilpaterson.co.uk 01312 253 802

www.fife.ac.uk 01592 223 000

www.glasgow-nautical.ac.uk 01415 666 222

Higher education college

University

Inverness College UHI

Higher education college

Glenrothes, KY6 2RA

Glasgow, G1 1XQ

www.cityofglasgowcollege.ac.uk 01413 329 969

Higher education college

gooduniguide.co.uk

Glasgow, G2 3DB

Higher education college

www.regent.org.uk 01312 259 888

Higher education college

Higher education college

Higher education college

University of Glasgow

Higher education college

Edinburgh, EH2 4NA

www.glasgowkelvin.ac.uk 01416 305 000

Central College of Commerce

www.fife.ac.uk 01592 223 700

www.aspectworld.com 020 8727 3550

Glasgow, G21 4TD

Edinburgh, EH2 4NA

www.ayrshire.ac.uk 01292 265 184

Edinburgh, EH2 4NG

Higher education college

Higher education college

Fife College Priory Campus

Aspect College Edinburgh

Glasgow, G4 0RD

Higher education college

Ayrshire College Ayr, KA8 0FE

Cupar, KY15 4JB

www.hw.ac.uk 01314 495 111

University

Dundee, DD3 8LE

Glasgow, G3 6RQ

Higher education college

University

Dundee College

Inverkeithing, KY11 8DY

Glasgow, G5 9XB

Higher education college

Isle of Lewis, HS2 0XR Higher education college

North Highland College Thurso, KW14 7EE

www.northhighland.uhi.ac.uk 01847 889 000 Higher education college

spring 2015 | the good universities guide | 79

DIRECTORY Sabhal Mor Ostaig

Isle of Skye, IV44 8RQ www.smo.uhi.ac.uk 01471 888 000

Renfrewshire

University of the West of Scotland

Higher education college

Paisley, PA1 2BE

The University of the Highlands and Islands

University

www.uws.ac.uk 01418 483 000

Inverness, IV3 5SQ

Reid Kerr College

University

www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk 01415 812 222

www.uhi.ac.uk 01463 279 000

UHI Dunoon Argyll Argyll, PA23 7HP www.uhi.ac.uk 01463 279 000 University

Mid Lothian

Jewel and Esk Valley College Dalkeith, EH22 3AE www.jevc.ac.uk 01316 601 010

Higher education college

Newbattle Abbey College Dalkeith, EH22 3LL

www.newbattleabbeycollege.ac.uk 01316 631 921 Higher education college

Moray

Findhorn Foundation College Forres, IV36 3TZ

www.findhorncollege.org 01309 690 806 Higher education college

Moray College Elgin, IV30 1JJ

www.moray.ac.uk 01343 576 000 Higher education college

North Lanarkshire Coatbridge College Coatbridge, ML5 3LS

www.coatbridge.ac.uk 01236 422 316 Higher education college

Motherwell College

Motherwell, ML1 2DD www.motherwell.ac.uk 01698 232 323 Higher education college

Orkney Islands Orkney College UHI Kirkwall, KW15 1LX

www.orkney.uhi.ac.uk 01856 569 000

Higher education college

Perth College

Perth, PH1 2NX

www.perth.uhi.ac.uk 01738 877 000 Higher education college

80 | the good universities guide | spring 2015

Paisley, PA3 4DR

Higher education college

Scottish Borders Heriot Watt University Galashiels, TD1 3HF www.hw.ac.uk/sbc 01896 753 351 University

The Borders College

West Dunbartonshire

Northern Regional College

Clydebank, G81 1NX

Larne, BT40 1SQ

Clydebank College www.clydebank.ac.uk 01419 527 771

Higher education college

Clydebank College Dunbarton Campus Clydebank, G81 1BF

www.clydebank.ac.uk 03006 006 060

www.nafc.ac.uk 01595 880 328

Higher education college

Shetland College

Shetland, ZE1 OYB

www.shetland.uhi.ac.uk 01595 771 000 Higher education college

South Ayrshire

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) Ayr, KA8 0SX

www.sruc.ac.uk/ayr 01292 866 196 University

University of the West of Scotland Ayr, KA8 0SX

www.uws.ac.uk 01292 886 000 University

South Lanarkshire

Glasgow, G12 8QQ www.isli.ac.uk 131 510 0670

University

Broxburn, EH52 6NH Higher education college

West Lothian College Livingston, EH54 7EP

www.west-lothian.ac.uk 01506 418 181 Higher education college

Northern Island

Higher education college

Castlereagh College

St Mary’s University College Belfast, BT12 6FE

www.stmarys-belfast.ac.uk 02890 327 678 Higher education college

Stranmillis University College Belfast, BT9 5DY www.stran.ac.uk 02890 381 271 University

The Union Theological College Belfast, BT7 1JT

Higher education college

Belfast, BT15 1ED www.ulster.ac.uk 02870 123 456

Belfast, BT6 9JD

University

Higher education college

University of Ulster Jordanstown Campus

www.belfastmet.ac.uk 02890 797 144

Northern Regional College Ballymena Campus Ballymena, BT43 7DF www.nrc.ac.uk 02825 652 871

Higher education college

Ballymoney, BT53 6BP Higher education college

Stirling University

Northern Regional College Coleraine Campus

www.stir.ac.uk 01786 473 171

www.nrc.ac.uk 02870 354 717

University

University

University of Ulster Belfast Campus

www.belfastinstitute.ac.uk 02890 265 000

www.nrc.ac.uk 02827 660 401

Stirling, FK9 4LA

www.qub.ac.uk 02890 245 133

Belfast, BT1 6DJ

Belfast Institute of Further Education

www.uws.ac.uk 01698 283 100

Stirling

Belfast, BT7 1NN

www.union.ac.uk 02890 205 080

Northern Regional College Ballymoney Campus

University

Higher education vollege

County Antrim

University of the West of Scotland Hamilton, ML3 0JB

Newtonabbey, BT37 9RS

Queen’s University Belfast

Institute for System Level Integration

www.sruc.ac.uk/oatridge 01506 864 800

Shetland, ZE1 0UN

Northern Regional College Newtownabbey Campus

West Lothian

Higher education college

North Atlantic Fisheries College

Higher education vollege

www.nrc.ac.uk 02890 855 000

Galashiels, TD1 2AF

Shetland

www.nrc.ac.uk 02890 855 066

Higher education college

Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)

www.borderscollege.ac.uk 08700 505 152

Larne Campus

Coleraine, BT52 1QA

Higher education college

Newtownabbey, BT37 0QB www.ulster.ac.uk 02870 123 456 University

County Armagh

South Regional College Portadown Campus Craigavon, BT63 5BL www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02838 397 777

Higher education college

County Derry Limavady College

Limavady, BT49 0EX www.limavady.ac.uk 02877 762 334

Higher education college

gooduniguide.co.uk

DIRECTORY North West Institute

Londonderry, BT48 7AL

South Regional College Kilkeel Campus

South West College Dungannon Campus

Higher education college

www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02841 762 582

www.swc.ac.uk 08456 031 881

www.nwrc.ac.uk 02871 276 000

Northern Regional College (Magherafelt Campus)

Newry, BT34 4BH

Higher education college

Magherafelt, BT45 6AE

South Regional College Lurgan Campus

Higher education college

www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02838 397 800

www.nrc.ac.uk 02879 632 462

University of Ulster Coleraine Campus

Craigavon, BT66 6AZ Higher education college

South Regional College Newry Campus

Dungannon, BT71 6BQ Higher education college

South West College Omagh Campus Omagh, BT79 7AH www.swc.ac.uk 08456 031 881

Higher education college

Newry, BT34 2QX

Wales

Higher education college

Carmarthenshire College

University of Ulster Magee Campus

South Regional College Newry East/West Campus

www.colegsirgar.ac.uk 01554 748 000

www.ulster.ac.uk 02870 123 456

www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02830 261 071

Coleraine, BT52 1SA www.ulster.ac.uk 02870 344 141 University

www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02830 261 071

Carmarthenshire Llanelli, SA15 4DN

Newry, BT35 8DN

Higher education college

University

Higher education college

Carmarthen, SA31 3EP

County Down

South Regional College Newry Model Campus

Armagh, BT61 7HN

www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02830 261 071

Londonderry, BT48 7JL

Armagh College www.src.ac.uk 02837 512 205

Higher education college

College of Agriculture and Horticulture Antrim, BT41 4PS www.cafre.ac.uk 02894 426 666

Higher education college

East Down Institute of Further Education Downpatrick, BT30 6ND 02844 615 815

Higher education college

South Regional College Armagh Campus Armagh, BT61 7HF www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02837 512 820

Higher education college

South Regional College Armagh Station Campus Armagh, BT61 7NP www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02837 525 094

Higher education college

South Regional College Banbridge Campus Banbridge, BT32 4AY www.nkifhe.ac.uk 02838 397 700

Higher education college

gooduniguide.co.uk

Newry, BT34 6JG

Higher education college

County Fermanagh College of Agriculture Enniskillen, BT74 4GF www.cafre.ac.uk 02866 344 853

Higher education college

Fermanagh College East Bridge Street Campus Enniskillen, BT74 7BT www.swc.ac.uk 02866 322 556

Trinity College Carmarthen www.trinity-cm.ac.uk 01267 676 767

Higher education college

Ceredigion

Coleg Ceredigion

Cardigan, SA43 1AB

www.ceredigion.ac.uk 01239 612 032 Higher education college

www.cafre.ac.uk 02886 768 101

Higher education college

North East Wales Institute Wrexham, LL11 2AW www.newi.ac.uk 01978 290 666

Higher education college

Welsh College of Horticulture Mold, CH7 6AA

www.cambria.ac.uk 01352 841 000 Higher education college

Yale College

Wrexham, LL12 7AB www.cambria.co.uk 01978 311 794

Higher education college

Monmouthshire

Cardiff and Vale College Barry, CF62 8YJ www.cavc.ac.uk 01446 725 000

Higher education college

Cardiff, CF5 2YB

Cardiff University

www.uwtsd.ac.uk 03005 005 054

Denbighshire www.llandrillo.ac.uk 01492 546 666

Cookstown, BT80 9AA

Higher education college

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Fermanagh College Skills Centre

College of Agriculture, Food & Rural Enterprise (CAFRE)

www.cambria.ac.uk 01978 790 263

University

Higher education college

County Tyrone

Ruthin, LL15 2LB

University

Coleg Llandrillo

Higher education college

Llysfasi College

www.cardiffmet.ac.uk 02920 416 015

University

www.swc.ac.uk 02866 322 072

Higher education college

www.aber.ac.uk 01970 623 111

Aberystwyth, SY23 2AX

Fermanagh College Fairview Campus

Enniskillen, BT74 4EJ

www.llandrillo.ac.uk 01492 546 666

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Cardigan, SA48 7ED

www.swc.ac.uk 02866 322 431

Colwyn Bay, LL28 4HZ

University of Aberystwyth

Higher education college

Enniskillen, BT74 6AE

Llandrillo College

Colwyn Bay, LL28 4HZ Higher education college

Deeside College

Deeside, CH5 4BR

www.cambria.ac.uk 01244 831 531 Higher education college

Cardiff, CF10 3XQ www.cardiff.ac.uk 02920 874 000 University

Coleg Morgannwg Aberdare Campus Aberdare, CF44 8ST

www.morgannwg.ac.uk 01685 887 500 Higher education college

Coleg Morgannwg Nantgarw Campus Cardiff, CF15 7QY

www.pontypridd.ac.uk 01443 662 800 Higher education college

Glyndwr University

Coleg Morgannwg Rhondda Campus

www.glyndwr.ac.uk 01978 290 666

www.cymoedd.ac.uk 01443 663 202

Wrexham, LL11 2AW University

Tonypandy, CF40 2TQ Higher education college

spring 2015 | the good universities guide | 81

DIRECTORY Newport, NP18 3QT

Coleg Menai Llangefni Campus

Powys

University

www.menai.ac.uk 01248 383 348

trebinshunhouse.co.uk 01874 730 653

Gwent Tertiary College

University of Wales Newport

www.gwent-tertiary.ac.uk 01495 333 333

www.newport.ac.uk 01633 430 088

Usk, NP15 1XJ

Higher education college

Merthyr Tydfil College Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1AR www.merthyr.ac.uk 01685 726 000

Higher education college

Neath Port Talbot College Neath, SA10 7RF www.nptc.ac.uk 01639 648 000

Higher education college

Neath and Port Talbot Building Crafts Centre Swansea, SA6 8QT

www.nptcgroup.ac.uk 01639 648 120

Higher education college

Neath and Port Talbot College Afan Campus Port Talbot, SA13 2AL www.nptcgroup.ac.uk 01639 882 107

Higher education college

Neath and Port Talbot College Llandarcy Campus Neath, SA10 6JD

www.nptcgroup.ac.uk 01639 648 720

Higher education college

Neath and Port Talbot College Pontardawe Centre Swansea, SA8 4EN

www.nptcgroup.ac.uk 01639 648 100

University of Wales Swansea Swansea, SA2 8PP www.swan.ac.uk 01792 205 678 University

Wales Evangelical School of Theology

Ystrad Mynach College Hengoed, CF82 7XR

www.ystrad-mynach.ac.uk 01443 816 888 Higher education college

Gwynedd

University

University of Wales College of Medicine Cardiff, CF14 4XN www.uwcm.ac.uk 02920 747 747 University

University of Wales Trinity Saint David Swansea, SA1 6ED

www.uwtsd.ac.uk 01792 481 000 University

Swansea University Swansea, SA2 8PP

www.swansea.ac.uk 01792 205 678 University

Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire College Haverfordwest, SA61 1SZ

www.pembrokeshire.ac.uk 01437 753 000 Higher education college

Coleg Meirion Dwyfor Dolgellau, LL40 2SW

DOWNLOAD THE

Higher education college

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS – England APP

www.llandrillo.ac.uk 01341 422 827

Coleg Menai Bangor Campus www.menai.ac.uk 01248 370 125

Caernarfon, LL55 2NN

FREE APP

Higher education college

Coleg Menai Friars Campus Bangor, LL57 2TP www.menai.ac.uk 01248 370 125

Higher education college

Coleg Menai Holyhead Campus Holyhead, LL65 1UW

A selection of the best independent schools feature in the Independent Schools England app, with essential information included for each listing: Interactive contact details School philosophy Academic record

Extra-curricular activities Notable achievements Information on open days

DOWNLOAD FREE FROM THE APP STORE TODAY!

www.menai.ac.uk 01407 765 755

Higher education college ISP App fullpage.indd 1

82 | THE GOOD UNIVERSITIES GUIDE | SPRING 2015

Swansea

Higher education college

www.menai.ac.uk 01286 673 450

www.wales.ac.uk 02920 382 656

University

Higher education college

www.harlech.ac.uk 01766 780 363

University of South Wales

Cardiff, CF10 3NS

Bangor, LL57 2DG

Brecon, LD3 7PX

Harlech, LL46m 2PU

Higher education college

University of Wales

Higher education college

Regent Trebinshun

Coleg Harlech

Coleg Menai Caernarfon Campus

University

www.menai.ac.uk 01248 370 125

Higher education college

Higher education college

www.southwales.ac.uk 08455 760 101

Bangor, LL57 4BN

www.bangor.ac.uk 01248 351 151

www.west.org.uk 01656 645 411

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama

Pontypridd, CF37 1DL

Coleg Menai Parc Menai Campus

Bridgend, CF31 4DX

Bangor, LL57 2TP

www.rwcmd.ac.uk 02920 342 854

Higher education college

University of Wales Bangor

Higher education college

Cardiff, CF10 3ER

Llangefni, LL77 7HY

28/05/2014 17:25

gooduniguide.co.uk

BEYOND THE

CLASSROOM PRIVATE TUITION

BY A LONDON BASED AGENCY

CONSULTANCY SERVICES TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT SCHOOL OR UNIVERSITY

)

REGULAR, INTENSIVE AND SPECIFIC TUITION

OFFERING REGULAR AND INTENSIVE TUITION IN LONDON

) FROM PREP SCHOOL THROUGH TO UNIVERSITY

WHO WE ARE

OUR AIMS

Ivy Education is a premier London based agency providing outstanding private tuition and consultancy services to those who have the desire to add an extra dimension to their current studies.

Our aim is to leverage our expertise, experience and relationships to help students realise their goals.

Contact: Ivy Education

T: 0208 123 0322

w: ivyeducation.co.uk e: info@ivyeducation.co.uk