StudyLiverpool 2012-2013
Liverpool Community College
StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
Welcome from the principal Liverpool is renowned throughout the world for its cultural mix, world class architecture and rich heritage. It is easy to understand the city’s attraction to the thousands of students who choose to come to Liverpool from across the UK and overseas. Visitors to the city are assured of a warm welcome and an experience that befits this former European Capital of Culture. Liverpool Community College is the only further education college in the city offering a wide range of career related and academic courses, designed to develop the skills employers and universities want. The college is rated as outstanding and we pride ourselves on delivering the highest quality teaching to all our students. Our city centre campus offers many different opportunities to learn, as well as easy access to many of the city’s amenities and attractions. The Learning Exchange, the college’s new £35 million flagship building is at the heart of the campus. The Learning Exchange ensures our students have access to the best facilities and state of the art technology in our sector. We look forward to you joining our college community and taking the opportunity to share our knowledge, skills and culture. Best wishes. Elaine Bowker Principal
StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
Contents Page
Why choose Liverpool?
2
Why choose Liverpool Community College?
4
Study in the English Language Unit
5
What can I expect when I arrive?
8
What else can I study at Liverpool Community College?
9
What services does the College offer to support me?
11
Visa requirements How do I apply?
12
How do I get to Liverpool?
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StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
Why choose Liverpool? Liverpool was nominated European Capital of Culture in 2008 and has continued to expand its range of cultural activities ever since. • Liverpool’s waterfront is recognised as a World Heritage site. The city’s architecture is renowned across the globe. • Liverpool is a beautiful city with many cultural visitor attractions including three central museums, art galleries, six theatres and a major symphony orchestra. • The new Echo Arena hosts a number of high profile events and celebrity performers. • Liverpool is a student city which welcomes around 60,000 students each year. There are three prestigious universities which offer a wide range of degree choices. • Liverpool is a warm, vibrant and cosmopolitan city embracing all the major faiths of the world with two cathedrals, mosques, cultural centres and Hindu and Sikh temples. • Liverpool is a relatively inexpensive place to live compared to other British cities. The people of Liverpool have a national reputation for their friendliness and sense of humour.
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• Liverpool is renowned for its sporting achievements with two premier league football clubs and an international race course. There are plenty of sports centres around the city, over twenty tennis clubs and several PGA rated golf courses. • Liverpool is well placed to visit the beautiful countryside of Wales, The Lake District or Manchester; London is only 2 hours away by train. • Liverpool has a rich musical history and has been the inspiration for many bands past and present. • The Beatles are Liverpool’s most famous sons attracting thousands of tourists to the city every year, including the Beatles festival held in the city centre in August. • Liverpool is Britain’s fifth largest city and is statistically a safe place to live and study compared to London and Manchester. • Liverpool has a new, world class shopping complex including designer label shops, pubs, restaurants and cafes offering cuisine from all around the world.
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StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
Why choose Liverpool Community College? “Liverpool Community College is one of the best experiences I have had in my life. I have had a very good time here.” Hermann from Côte d’Ivoire
Liverpool Community College is one of the largest further education colleges in the UK with around 17,000 students and 1,000 staff across six main sites.
The college has a well established reputation within the British education system. It was inspected by the government in 2005 and 2009 and was awarded a Grade 1 outstanding status. The college is accredited by the British Council and English UK and has been awarded Grade A ‘Highly Trusted Status’ by the UK Border Agency. The college offers a wide range of qualifications to help students progress to university and into employment. Students can start college at different entry points and progress in career related or academic programmes. Liverpool Community College opened its new flagship building, The Learning Exchange, in September 2011. The £35 million development, at the heart of the college’s city centre campus, offers students a stateoftheart learning environment. Students will benefit from wifi facilities, a sports centre and social spaces.
Bankfield Road
The Arts Centre
Duke Street
Clarence Street
Vauxhall Road
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The Learning Exchange, Roscoe Street
StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
Study in the English Language Unit “College was a good experience and a good time. I learned many things here and I want to continue to learn English. Thank you for everything.” Amin from Iran
The English Language (ELU) has been running English courses for international students for more than 25 years. A team of dedicated, experienced teachers and an excellent admin staff will help you learn in a friendly supportive environment.
English as a Foreign Language (EFL) • The college offers a range of courses from elementary to advanced level • Fulltime courses at ELU are normally 15 hours per week • Further classes may be available in English or other subjects for those wanting a more extensive programme (EFL Plus) • Students may enrol for one, two or three terms • Class sizes are usually between 10 and 15 students (maximum 15) • Students are welcome from all countries. Examinations Examinations are normally taken at the end of the academic year (June) but it is also possible to take examinations in December. All students are encouraged to enter for one of the following exams, depending on their level of English and their period of study. • Cambridge Key English Test (KET) elementary level • Cambridge Preliminary English Test (PET) preintermediate level • Cambridge First Certificate (FCE) intermediate/ upper intermediate level • Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English advanced level All examinations will test competence in four language skills reading, writing, listening and speaking. In addition: We offer IELTS as an integral part of the general English language course or as a separate option. • IELTS the International Language Testing System provides an assessment of students’ level of English for Higher Education and professional employment. • Further and higher education institutions (universities) normally set a minimum IELTS score of at least 6.5 for higher level study. • IELTS exams are taken at Liverpool University. For further information about IELTS contact www.ielts.org
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Study in the English Language Unit ‘The course was extremely helpful and helped me get good marks in the IELTS exam – I was very happy to get 7.5 on my first test.’ Mattias from Argentina
Summer School Summer school is run in July and August for either four, six or eight weeks and includes weekly social activities. There is also presessional academic study for those wanting to prepare for mainstream studies at the college or at a university starting in September. Your Personal Tutor After enrolment you will meet your course tutor who is responsible for your course and your individual progress. You will be given regular tests and have individual tutorial sessions where you can discuss your progress and your studies. Attendance It is important that students attend classes regularly and on time. An attendance certificate will be given to all students. It is important to note that: Students attending for less than 95% of an examination course, without a valid reason, may not be allowed to enter for the examination. Evidence of attendance is required if you need to extend a visa. The UK Border Agency will be notified if a student is absent from college for ten days, without a valid reason. Books Students are expected to have the appropriate books/workbooks for the course. You can purchase the books from the English Language Unit at a cost of between £50 and £60. In addition to these it is advisable to have a good English/first language dictionary. Higher level students should also have a monolingual English dictionary. The ELU has access to a range of resources and additional learning materials will be provided as part of the course. Additional Studies Some ELU students choose to take additional courses in college. We will advise you about this when you start your course. Page 6
StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
‘An outstanding college with great student support. LCC is the best choice if you analyse price and quality.’ Ash from Turkmenistan
ELU Administration Officer The ELU administration officer will help with enrolment, your visa application, payment of fees and accommodation. Social Programme Liverpool is close to some of Britain’s most beautiful countryside, including the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, North Wales, the Peak District; and the historic cities of Chester and York. Social events and outings to local places of interest are organised throughout the year, for an additional charge. Accommodation The ELU can help you find accommodation in Liverpool or students may wish to arrange their own through family, friends or sponsors. Liverpool has many properties for rent suitable for students including privately owned student complexes and halls of residence within the city. This enables you to mix with British students. It may be possible to arrange a host family accommodation through the ELU once you have been granted a visa. Living with a host family is very popular with international students as it means you can continue to speak English outside classes. Host families include parents with children, a couple whose children have left home or a single adult. Accommodation usually includes bed, breakfast and evening meal on weekdays and full board at weekends. Accommodation price includes all utilities (gas, electricity and water) but excludes telephone charges.
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StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
What can I expect when I arrive? ‘I like studying in the Community College because we study in the same building as local people. So we share the same atmosphere and though we are foreign students we are in college with English people and talking to them.’ Ana from Spain
Placement test When you arrive your English language skills will be assessed and you will be placed in a class at the level appropriate to your language needs. Enrolment Enrolment and payment of the balance of your fees will be on your first day. You will then be issued with a college photo ID card.
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What else can I study at Liverpool Community College? “I like this college because of the teachers.” Wael from Saudi Arabia
If you are competent in English you can study on other college courses at Level 3. You can also study at level 1 and level 2 in addition to your 15 hour English programme (EFL Plus).
EFL Plus You will study for an additional six hours per week and join native speakers on a vocational course of your choice. Alternatively, you may take an additional GCSE or Alevel in an academic subject during the day or evening. This could help you prepare for future university. Vocational Studies at Level 3 The college runs a range of courses and qualifications at level 3, including NVQs, in visual and performing arts, business and IT, hospitality and catering, health, tourism, construction, engineering and science. ALevels at Level 3 The gold standard Alevel is revered in all British universities. The qualification is separated into AS level after one year and A2 on completion of the second year. The college runs a wide range of subjects at Alevel with a full programme consisting of 3 or four subjects (see website for details). Vocational Studies at Level 4 The college offers higher national certificates and diplomas (HNC/D) in art and design, business, IT, hospitality, media, performing arts, building services, construction and engineering. There are also diploma courses in teacher training, as well as shorter initial teacher qualifications such as CELTA and PTLLS.
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StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
‘I had a very good experience in this college. I was very satisfied with the teaching – I really got what I came for. I got a 7.0 in IELTS and have a place to study history in university in September.’ Hristo from Bulgaria
Foundation Degrees The college has expanded its links with local universities to offer a range of foundation degrees, from fashion and clothing to information technology. A fuller list of courses and qualifications is available on our website www.livcoll.ac.uk . Please note that you should apply for mainstream college courses between November and March to secure a place in September. Progression We offer language support for overseas students on mainstream courses. This has proven to maximise achievement for successful progression. Most universities request an IELTS score of at least 6.5. The college is associated with the five higher education institutions in the city of Liverpool Liverpool University; Liverpool John Moores University; Hope University; Liverpool University Hospital (including the School of Tropical Medicine); Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts. There are clear progression pathways from courses in college into higher education.
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StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
What services does the college offer to support me?
‘The atmosphere in class has always been very friendly and we have wonderful and experienced teachers. I think I was lucky to find Liverpool Community College to study English’ Yoshie from Japan
Induction When you start your course you will be given: • The Student Handbook and Diary, this contains the student charter and other details about Liverpool Community College. • Course Guide This contains detailed information about your programme. • Information about college services. • Information about Liverpool and the northwest of England. Student Services The college has Student Services units at all main centres. Student Services staff support students throughout their course. They offer careers advice and guidance about progression to the next stage of learning in the UK, including help with applications to British universities (UCAS). They also offer a confidential counselling service.
Learning Resource Centres The learning resource centres (LRCs) offer a full library and information service to students and staff at the college. Each centre offers a comprehensive collection of books and other resource based materials. Drop in computer facilities are also available with a range of software including free email and Internet facilities and some language learning programmes. Working and studying Most international students are legally allowed to do paid work for up to 10 hours per week. Think about this carefully as your studies could suffer if you are over tired. Check your visa or passport stamp as employment may not be allowed.
Student Association Once enrolled you automatically become a member of the Student Association. It supports a range of sporting, leisure, social and cultural activities. Most centres have a student common room. You may also apply to become a member of NUS (National Union of Students) which entitles you to discounts in shops and leisure facilities. It also allows you access to the facilities of associated universities. Page 11
StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
Visa requirements - How do I apply? NonEU students and visa requirements The Border Agency introduced new regulations in 2009 which require long term students to confirm they have a serious intention to study, already have English qualifications at B1 and have enough money to support their life and study in the UK. When these conditions have been met the Border Agency will issue you with a Confirmation of Studies (CAS) number which they will use to track your movements between countries. If you cannot meet the above conditions you could consider applying for a 6 month student visitor visa which has no restrictions. EU students also have no restrictions.
STEP ONE
STEP FIVE
1
5
Complete the application form.
STEP TWO
2
Scan or photocopy your passport, financial proofs and English certificates to send to us.
STEP THREE
3
The UK Border Agency will issue you with a CAS number this usually takes about 3 weeks. (This number will be used to track you leaving and entering the UK)
STEP SIX
6
Send all documents with a 33% deposit.
When your CAS number has been allocated, you will receive a confirmation letter to take to the British Embassy or High Commission in your country to apply for a visa.
STEP FOUR
STEP SEVEN
4
7
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If all documentation is acceptable we will apply to the UK Border Agency electronically for a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) on your behalf.
When your Visa has been granted you inform the college of your date of arrival and book an appointment to enrol.
StudyLiverpool • www.livcoll.ac.uk
How do I get to Liverpool? Liverpool is a major English city with excellent road and rail links.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport This is the city’s main airport and is approximately six miles from the city centre. If you arrive here you can go to your destination by taxi or take a bus to the city centre. Taxis are always available at airports and railway stations, but they can be expensive, so check prices before you start your journey. From Manchester Airport There is a regular train service to the city’s main train station, Liverpool Lime Street. Alternatively, the college can arrange for you to be met by taxi at Manchester Airport at a cost of £35. From Gatwick Airport Take the train to Victoria Underground Station and take the underground train (Victoria line) to Euston Station (main line).* From Heathrow Airport (There is a British Council desk at terminal 4) Take the underground train (Piccadilly line) to Leicester Square, change trains (Northern line) to Euston Station (mainline).* From Luton Airport There is a regular bus service into Luton Station. Take the train to London, Kings Cross Station and the underground train to Euston Station (one stop Northern line). * From Stanstead Airport Take the train into central London Liverpool Street Station then the underground to Kings Cross Station (Circle or Metropolitan line) then to Euston Station (one stop Northern line). *
* Euston Station is the London terminal station for trains to Liverpool Lime Street. Trains run throughout the day and the journey takes just over 2 hours. Calling Liverpool from other UK cities The Liverpool city dialling code is 0151 e.g. the number for Liverpool Community College from Manchester or London is 0151 252 1515. Page 13
To Manchester
THE LEARNING EXCHANGE (MAIN CENTRE)
Liverpool Community College Main Centres
Liverpool Manchester
Birmingham
London
Liverpool Community College EFL Administration: +44(0)151 252 3275 Switchboard: +44(0)151 252 1515 Course Information: +44(0)151 252 3000 Website: www.liv足coll.ac.uk