Cambridge Seminars Prospectus

HOW TO FIND US Cambridge has very good transport connections to the rest of the country.

By Car: Cambridge is 50 miles north of London. There are two main routes for travelling to Cambridge Seminars by car – via the M11 motorway or via the M25/A1(M)/A10.

Designed by Cleverbox 020 8466 7222

www.cleverbox.co.uk

By Train: Cambridge can be reached by train from both King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations in London. The journey takes about an hour and the trains are frequent. Cambridge Seminars is about 10 minutes by taxi from Cambridge Railway Station. Details of timetables and tickets can be found at: www.thetrainline.com

By Bus: National Express run services from all major airports, in and around London, including Stansted, Heathrow and Gatwick to Cambridge. Taxis are available for hire at the Bus Station for the short journey to Cambridge Seminars. Further information including timetables and details of booking can be found at: www.nationalexpress.com/coach/index.cfm

Thirty years OF Preparing Students for University

Contact Us Logic House 143–147 Newmarket Road Cambridge CB5 8HA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1223 300123 Tel: +44 (0) 1223 313464 Fax: +44 (0) 1223 352511 Email: info@cambridgeseminars.co.uk Website: www.cambridgeseminars.co.uk

Contents

Page

Introduction to college................................................................................................................... 1 Accreditation..................................................................................................................................................... 2 Cambridge and the College.............................................................................................................. 3 Programmes.......................................................................................................................................................... 4

“Cambridge Seminars is a tutorial college that will definitely get you into a good university. The students were warm and friendly. You are bound to learn with the small class sizes. As I move on to higher level education I will never forget the people who made it happen.�

University Placement................................................................................................................................. 8

Daniel Vasquez

Accommodation............................................................................................................................................10

Daniel (from Mexico) studied on our Foundation Programme and went on to study Economics at Loughborough University.

Why Choose Cambridge Seminars.............................................................................................12 Admission procedure...............................................................................................................................12

INTRODUCTION Founded in 1981 Cambridge Seminars has 30 years of experience preparing students for entry to Britain’s top universities.

Set in the heart of the historic city of Cambridge, we offer a unique experience for both domestic and international students and ensure that we meet our students’ dreams and aspirations for their future careers.

We recognise that every student is unique, has his or her own study goals and learning needs. We aim to give our students the best choice for their future in terms of the course, the university and the time they spend with us.

This is why we guarantee our students, • Personal attention • Teaching in small class sizes by our skilled and experienced tutors • Encouragement to develop their study skills both with our tutors and also through self-learning • Guidance for university placement and enrolment • Exceptional pastoral care and support We look forward to meeting you and being a part of your future success.

The Cambridge Seminars Team

Accreditation Cambridge Seminars is accredited by the British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher education.

The BAC is an independent body, established in 1984 “to improve and enhance the standards of independent further and higher educational institutions in the United Kingdom by the establishment of a system of accreditation”.

We are a member of the British Council.

We often participate in British Council initiated overseas exhibitions and conferences.

Cambridge Seminars is licensed by the UK Border Agency as a “Highly Trusted Sponsor” for the purpose of issuing Visa letters (CAS Statements) under Tier 4; student visas.

“I am enjoying my studies because of the small class sizes.

Students have more communication with the tutors both in and out of classes. It is a friendly college and I am glad I joined here as I am confident to get high scores and a good university admission.”

David Yang David Yang, an A-level student from China went on to study Economics at Bristol University

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Cambridge and the College

Having grown around the prestigious and world famous University, modern day Cambridge is a lively blend of the old and new.

The city boasts a wealth of museums, theatres, live event venues, cinemas, restaurants and shops. Students wishing to visit the capital can reach London by train in less than an hour.

With a population of 120,000 Cambridge is a small, safe town, where everything is within walking distance. More adventurous students may decide to buy or rent a bicycle to get around town more quickly or to explore the outlying villages.

Cambridge Seminars is housed in a modern three-storey building just five minutes walk from the Grafton Shopping Centre and from the beautiful River Cam. The college has a range of classrooms: science laboratory, fully equipped computer room, student prep room, student common room and a nearby art and design workshop.

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PROGRAMMES One-year GCSE We offer this programme to students who have not been able to complete their schooling either within the UK or overseas.

This accelerated Intensive programme allows students to take a minimum of five subjects in one academic year instead of the typical two years.

Choice of Study Options Complete A-level programme Three or four subjects are chosen and studied over two years or eighteen months

Additional subjects

A Level Programmes A-level is the most prestigious qualification used to gain entry to the top British universities. The A-level programme normally takes 2 years to complete and the specification is divided into a number of modules. Some examinations are taken at the end of year one (AS Level) and final examinations are taken upon completion of year two (A2 level).

Our GCSE and A-level examinations are taken through independent bodies. Cambridge Seminars is registered with all the major UK awarding bodies – AQA, OCR and Edexcel, and is also able to offer International GCSE’s.

All UK and international inquiries are dealt with on an individual basis and a programme is devised according to the needs of each student.

These are for students who may need to study a single subject over a one-year period.

Re-sits for particular modules For students who have sat their A-levels at another institute and not achieved the target grade, it may be possible to re-sit individual modules to improve the overall grade.

Subjects available at A-level include: • Accounting

• European Languages

• Art

• Geography

• Biology

• Government & Politics

• Business Studies

• History

• Chemistry

• Law

• Computer Science

• Mathematics

• Economics

• Media Studies

• Communication Studies

• Physics

• Environmental Sciences

• Psychology

Entry requirements • Age: 16+ • Academic Level: Excellent grades at GCSE or equivalent in at least 5 subjects relevant to chosen career path • English language Level: IELTS 6.5+ or equivalent, if needed

Entry Dates September and January

The Cambridge Seminars Foundation programme produces confident and effective undergraduates with the skills necessary for success at degree level

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University Foundation Programmes The University Foundation Programme (UFP) is an intensive course that provides access to a wide range of universities in the United Kingdom. It has been introduced as an alternative to the conventional two year A-Level route.

We have been running our University Foundation Programmes for over a decade and design our courses in consultation with some of the UK’s top Universities to ensure that the course will prepare the student fully for the rigours of studying at degree level.

These are fast-track one year courses, which aim to provide students with specific academic subject knowledge, language support and essential study skills.

The programme is modular and comprises 3–4 academic subjects in addition to English for Academic Purposes. The subjects studied are selected according to the student’s intended degree. For example a student taking a Business Studies UFP will study Economics, Business studies, Accounting and Law.

“I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to you all in preparing our two daughters for their university education.

Victoria & Linda pass on their appreciation for your efforts during their stay… Rosemary will be joining you this year.”

Mr Francis Jimoh from Nigeria has sent three of his daughters to Cambridge Seminars

We offer a wide range of University Foundation Subjects including: • Accounting

• Environmental Science

• Architecture

• International Relations

• Bio Medical Sciences

• Law

• Business Information Systems

• Mechanical Engineering

• Business Studies

• Media & Mass Communications

• Chemical Engineering • Civil Engineering • Computing • Economics

• Petroleum Engineering • Pharmacy • Travel & Tourism Management

• Electrical/Electronic Engineering

Entry requirements • Age: 16+ • Academic Level: Good grades at GCSE or equivalent in at least 5 subjects relevant to chosen career path • English Language Level: IELTS 5.0+ or equivalent

Entry Dates September, January and April

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PROGRAMMES Pre-Masters Programmes The Cambridge Seminars Pre-Masters Foundation Course is ideal for international students wishing to study at postgraduate level at University in the UK. The teaching is very interactive and conducted in small tutorial groups, where each student is able to participate fully and benefit from individual attention.

The course has been designed to cover a range of topics that will develop the students’ understanding and skills for their future study at university. The course also provides guidance and support for students at every stage of the university application process to secure a place on the Masters programme of their choice.

English for Academic Purposes This academic English course is ideal for students who do not have the required level of English ability to study on one of our academic courses when they join. All students will sit the IELTS examination upon completion. Natural progression from this is to A-levels or the University Foundation Programme.

Entry Requirements • Age: 16+ • English Language Level: IELTS 4.0+

The programme’s prime focus is on

Entry dates

• Academic English language with emphasis on development of vocabulary and writing skills and IELTS Preparation

Any Monday

• Development of Research and Analysis skills

Specialist EFL programmes

• Discipline specific terminology and knowledge • Hands-on training in the research and production of a dissertation/thesis Our course follows a modular structure with some compulsory modules such as English for Academic Purposes and Research Methodologies, and with optional choices based on target university subject.

The Pre-Masters options • Management & Business Studies • Economics • Engineering

• Law • International Relations • Pharmacy and Bio-Medical studies

• Accounting & Finance Other topics may be offered on request

Entry requirements • Age: 21+ • Academic level: International degree level qualification or diploma • English Language Level: IELTS 5.5+ • Some work experience

Entry dates September, January and April

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English Language Programmes

We offer a range of ESOL specialist programmes such as Business English Certificate (BEC), First Certificate in English (FCE), Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) and subject related specialisms such as English for Lawyers. All these are assessed through the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations Board.

TAILOR MADE Programmes The college also hosts tailored programmes and short courses on request.

Examples of such programmes that have been held in the past include: • Summer Discovery. This programme was held for many years for American students, who were hosted at one of the Cambridge university colleges • Summer programme for Chinese students. A specialist Cultural, Sightseeing & English language programme for students from Shenzhen • Programmes have been arranged with Kaetsu Women’s College in Tokyo primarily for EFL tuition • Short course for banking executives from Greece • Management Training courses for executives from Germany, Turkey and China We are happy to organize summer programmes and short courses to suit the needs of groups. Some of these programmes can be conducted in association with Cambridge University.

Please contact the college for further information.

“I have enjoyed every moment of my time at Cambridge Seminars. I chose this college because it OFFERS a wide range of subjects TAUGHT BY outstanding teachers. This college boosted my confidence, which led me to carry on into higher education. Thank you all the staff.�

Hamid Moradlou Hamid joined the college from Iran and studied on the University Foundation Programme. He went on to study Mechanical Engineering at Bath University.

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University Placement

We recognise that selecting the correct university and the most suitable course is vital for the future of our students.

We offer a complete service for university placement from initial group meetings through to personal discussion of aspirations and final placement acceptance.

This includes: • Comprehensive, free and independent university and course guidance • Assistance with creation of UCAS (Universities & Colleges Admission Service) account for each student, selection of suitable university choices including first and insurance choice • Support in preparation of the student’s Personal Statement • Providing a reference for each student

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The final selection of university and the subject of study are open to the student, based upon their ability and career aspirations.

We regularly welcome University representatives to the college where they are able to give our students first hand information about their courses and life at their University. We also encourage the students to visit their selected choice of university before making a final decision.

Our University Foundation Programme is independent, allowing our students to apply to most UK universities. We have strong links developed over many years with numerous Universities and this enables us to offer the highest quality counselling when helping students choose their Degree and University.

For careers in medicine and law we offer preparation for the following compulsory tests: • The National Admissions Test for Law (LNAT) • Admission Tests for Medicine Courses (UKCAT and BMAT)

Cambridge Seminars students have won places at the following top ranking Universities • Aston University

• University of Bath

• Essex University

• University of Birmingham

• King’s College, London

• University of Bristol

• Lancaster University

• University of Cambridge

• Leeds University

• University of Durham

• London School of Economics

• University of Leicester

• Loughborough University

• University College, London

• Newcastle University

• University of Edinburgh

• Nottingham University

• University of Sheffield

• Oxford University

• University of York

Students also have a choice of many other universities and colleges not listed above.

“This was great a year for me. I LEARNED so much. The teachers and the students are so friendly and my host family really cared for me. Thank you Cambridge Seminars. I will always remember you.”

Efe Ozyar Efe Ozyar from Turkey studied on a University Foundation Programme and obtained a place at Coventry University to study Mechanical Engineering

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Accommodation & Student Welfare At Cambridge Seminars, we recognise that good accommodation is an essential element for a successful academic programme.

Host family accommodation is particularly suitable for students who appreciate a family atmosphere. It provides a wonderful opportunity for students to practise their language skills and to learn more about the British culture.

We have well-established links with local host families who provide accommodation to students on a half-board basis (breakfast and dinner included). Students have their own single rooms with study facilities and adequate storage space for their clothes and belongings. Twin or ensuite rooms may be available on request. Most families are within walking distance or a short bicycle ride form the college.

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“I have been studying English at Cambridge Seminars College. It has been a fantastic experience as the College has looked after me so well. As I transfered from a Chinese university my needs were very different to the usual foundation students, yet Cambridge Seminars organised a programme that suited my specific needs so that I could return to China together with an academic diploma as well as a business certificate. I am so happy to have chosen this college as they really did everything possible to accommodate my demands.�

Qiu Hailong

Self Catering Accommodation For those students who wish to be more independent, the college can provide assistance in making contact with suitable letting agents or landlords.

Halls of Residence (Hostel) accommodation.

Provided that sufficient notice is given the college can also arrange accommodation in halls of residence. Please contact the college for further information.

Personal Tutor System We believe that each student is an important member of the college community and as part of our commitment to the general well-being of students in our care, we operate a Personal Tutor System. All students are assigned to a senior member of staff, and regular meetings are held to monitor academic progress and support in all areas of life.

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Why Choose Cambridge Seminars?

• Location: Be part of Cambridge’s history of academic excellence.

Here are just a few of the reasons for choosing to study at Cambridge Seminars College.

• Great Facilities: Classes are conducted in a modern building complete with the essential tools for your education including IT equipment and science laboratory

• Track record: We have over thirty years of experience and have placed thousands of students in the UK’s top universities • Examination results: The college has a spectacular record of examination success. Over 95% of our students achieve university placement • Exceptional Teaching Staff: Our tutors are experienced, loyal and results driven

• Atmosphere: A great family atmosphere with the support for students to quickly and easily acclimatise to living and studying in the UK • Class sizes: We operate small classes of typically no more than six students per class • Pastoral care: Students receive constant support from all staff as well as regular meetings with their senior staff mentor

Application Process So you are ready to proceed!

To make a successful application to Cambridge Seminars College follow the simple steps shown below: 1. Complete Application Form: Ensure that you submit: a. Evidence of your current academic results (examination certificates/transcripts and or school assessment reports) b. Copy of your passport c. Copy of your English Language Test Certificate (IELTS, TOEFL etc) d. Fully completed application form 2. Application Evaluation: Once we have evaluated your application, if accepted, we shall then email you an Offer Letter confirming your acceptance on the course. This will also detail the course, start and end dates and fees payable.

3. Deposit Payment: The next stage will be for you to make a deposit payment into our bank account for the requested amount. Details of how much and where to make the payment will be provided with your offer letter.

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4. Place Confirmed: Once we receive the deposit we shall then send you the CAS Statement (Visa Letter) plus receipt for your deposit payment.

5. Visa Application: You will need to visit the nearest UK visa office in your country and obtain the application form and procedure details for making your visa application. Please ensure that you submit all ORIGINAL documents requested including the CAS Statement sent by us. It is important that you keep us advised as to the progress of your visa application. Should your visa be rejected then please advise us immediately with a copy of the rejection letter.

6. Student Arrival: Upon receipt of your visa confirmation, the college will book and confirm your accommodation and if requested your airport pick-up. Students are expected to arrive at college one day prior to their course start date. If you are unable to arrive in time please inform the college well in advance of your arrival.

7. PLEASE NOTE: The application process from start to finish can take 8–10 weeks, so be sure to apply early enough to secure your visa before the start of your programme.

1 Application Form

2 Student Acceptance

3 Deposit Payment

6 Student Arrival

5 Visa Application

4 Place Confirmed

Contents

Page

Introduction to college................................................................................................................... 1 Accreditation..................................................................................................................................................... 2 Cambridge and the College.............................................................................................................. 3 Programmes.......................................................................................................................................................... 4

“Cambridge Seminars is a tutorial college that will definitely get you into a good university. The students were warm and friendly. You are bound to learn with the small class sizes. As I move on to higher level education I will never forget the people who made it happen.�

University Placement................................................................................................................................. 8

Daniel Vasquez

Accommodation............................................................................................................................................10

Daniel (from Mexico) studied on our Foundation Programme and went on to study Economics at Loughborough University.

Why Choose Cambridge Seminars.............................................................................................12 Admission procedure...............................................................................................................................12

HOW TO FIND US Cambridge has very good transport connections to the rest of the country.

By Car: Cambridge is 50 miles north of London. There are two main routes for travelling to Cambridge Seminars by car – via the M11 motorway or via the M25/A1(M)/A10.

Designed by Cleverbox 020 8466 7222

www.cleverbox.co.uk

By Train: Cambridge can be reached by train from both King’s Cross and Liverpool Street stations in London. The journey takes about an hour and the trains are frequent. Cambridge Seminars is about 10 minutes by taxi from Cambridge Railway Station. Details of timetables and tickets can be found at: www.thetrainline.com

By Bus: National Express run services from all major airports, in and around London, including Stansted, Heathrow and Gatwick to Cambridge. Taxis are available for hire at the Bus Station for the short journey to Cambridge Seminars. Further information including timetables and details of booking can be found at: www.nationalexpress.com/coach/index.cfm

Thirty years OF Preparing Students for University

Contact Us Logic House 143–147 Newmarket Road Cambridge CB5 8HA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 1223 300123 Tel: +44 (0) 1223 313464 Fax: +44 (0) 1223 352511 Email: info@cambridgeseminars.co.uk Website: www.cambridgeseminars.co.uk