international students welcome guide A special guide with BU International Students in mind
WWW.SUBU.ORG.UK
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your full time officers
“5 elected officers representing over 18,000 students at BU.”
ADE BALOGUN - subu president Find me: Student Centre, 1st Floor. Phone me: 01202 965773 Email me: supresident@bournemouth.ac.uk Tweet me: @SubuPresident
LEA EDIALE - vp activities Find me: Student Centre, 1st Floor. Phone me: 01202 962111 Email me: suvpactivities@bournemouth.ac.uk Tweet me: @SUBU_Activities
LENRICK GREAVES - vp EDUCATION Find me: Student Centre, 1st Floor. Phone me: 01202 965775 Email me: suvpeducation@bournemouth.ac.uk Tweet me: @SUBUEducation
/sububournemouth @SUBUBournemouth @sububournemouth sububournemouth ABIDEMI ABIODUN - vp community Find me: Student Centre, 1st Floor. Phone me: 01202 965774 Email me: suvpcommunity@bournemouth.ac.uk Tweet me: @SUBUCommunity
BRAD POWELL - vp welfare Find me: Student Centre, 1st Floor. Phone me: 01202 965118 Email me: suvpwelfare@bournemouth.ac.uk Tweet me: @SUBUWelfare
DEMOCRACY & EQUALITY
WHAT’S IN THIS BOOKLET? Coming to University can be daunting, especially if you are an international student. We are your Students’ Union, and we are here to assist you in settling into university life while maintaining a healthy mind, life, and balance between work and play. Inside this booklet are all of the essential and need to know services, facilities, and links to the Students’ Union and University support services. All of the content in this guide is written by students for students so you can be sure it will be useful to you.
S I H T IN E D I GU INTRODUCTIONS AND TIPS FROM STUDENTS....................................... 4-5 CULTURE SHOCK.......................................................................................... 6-7 TRANSPORT/ GETTING AROUND................................................................. 8 TRIPS AND TOURS............................................................................................. 9 FOOD AND DRINK..................................................................................... 10-11 WORKING WHILE YOU STUDY................................................................ 12-13 FINANCE............................................................................................................ 14 HEALTHCARE.................................................................................................... 15 ACCOMODATION...................................................................................... 16-17 STUDYING AT BOURNEMOUTH UNIVERSITY........................................... .18 ADDICTIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT........................................................... 19 STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES............................................................... 20-21 STUDENTS’ UNION AT BOURNEMOUTH UNIVERSITY.......................22-25 NUS EXTRA CARD............................................................................................ 26 MAP OF SUBU FACILITIES....................................................................... 28-29 THINGS TO DO ......................................................................................... 30-31
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INTRODUCTION and tips from students Being an international student I didn’t know anyone when coming to Uni. In halls it was easy to make a lot of friends, some of which I will keep for life. SUBU also played a key role in making me settle at BU as it introduced me to Clubs and Societies. In my first year I joined a few societies Nina Nagel, and got to know more and more people, which made International Students it so much easier to fit in. Officer (EU) 2016 - 17 It felt so important to be accepted by home students to not be the “alien girl” but just one of the many. Don’t get me wrong I’m very proud of where I come from but it was just awesome when after a while my nationality wasn’t the biggest talking point anymore but I was just one of them. I grew a lot during my first year at University and became more determined and confident.
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In my second year I decided it was time for me to take on more leadership roles, so I started Student Action for Refugees with a friend of mine and became Vice President of the Society. A few weeks into the first term and I ran for a Part Time officer position. I was unsure at first as it was kind of proposed to me last minute and at the time I didn’t think I was going to survive an election. I ran for International Students (EU) Officer and fell in love with the role during the election process. I put my heart and soul into my manifesto, posters and even a little promo video. The hard work all payed off and I became the Part Time Officer for European Students. The biggest achievement within this role was organising the One World Festival, where we celebrated all the different cultures at BU. The event was a massive success and brought international and home students together, which was beautiful to see. For the future I hope that events like this will continue to happen to make international students feel love and accepted in the university community.
I have felt at home studying at BU, especially as an International student, there were so many resources put in place to ensure that I was settled properly, the staff were also very helpful. My Journey at BU as been very rewarding and fun filled, I have met so many different people from different background and I have also had the opportunity to work with the Students’ Union and do some great work as the international student officer, helping me to sharpen my leadership and representation skills.
Wole Adeosun International Students Officer (Non-EU) 2016 - 17
Being part of STAR as an international student has been an amazing opportunity. I’ve had the chance to meet a lot of different and inspiring people that shared the goal of doing something meaningful for asylum seekers and refugees. Volunteering with local refugees, teaching them English and playing with the children has been a great way to better get to know their culture and help them integrate in this society.
Denise Minichini, Volunteer Manager of STAR
Campaigning for Equal Access to Higher Education for asylum seekers gave me a sense of purpose and determination to offer everyone the opportunity to get the same education we are getting. Overall being part of STAR, organising bake sales, attending protests, launching petitions has made me part of a fantastic family, my new family abroad, that is working hard (but also having fun) to make a difference.
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culture shock unspoken rules & etiquette Every culture is built on deeply-embedded sets of values, norms, assumptions and beliefs, with every culture you’ll find a number of unspoken rules that people are often expected to adhere to. It is likely that these will differ to what you’re used to at home, but try not to worry about these too much – you’ll soon pick them up. To help you we’ve picked that we think are most prevalent, to help you settle in: • Punctuality: If you’re running more than 5 minutes behind you should let the others know as soon as possible • Queuing: Queuing is a serious business. People form a queue, or a single line, when waiting for a service, for example in a shop or ticket office, take your place in the queue and your turn will come. • Politeness: By comparison to many cultures around the world Brits are very polite. The use of thank you, sorry and please is often habit and can be very amusing to non-brits but it may offend if you don’t use them.
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After arriving in the UK you will have probably noticed differences between the way things are done here and what you are used to at home. There will be differences in a range of things, from the way people dress, speak and behave and our foods – these things could potentially impact on all aspects of your life. Rest assured that this period of ‘Culture Shock’ is perfectly normal and almost always temporary.
relationships There may be many differences between relationships here to those that you are used to at home and it is common to see couples holding hands and kissing in public. The UK is a diverse country and we are open to many different relationship styles, including perfectly acceptable same-sex relationships.
Top 5 tips for withstanding culture shock
Clothing Clothing expectations in the UK relaxed and people wear what they feel comfortable in, the UK is a multicultural place and it is common for people to wear clothing associated with their culture or religion. Although whilst our weather is rarely extreme, it can change quickly; in one day you may need appropriate clothing for warm sunshine, rain and cold winds. Wear multiple layers so you can put them on or take them off as the weather changes, and try to carry an umbrella.
1 Remember, it’s only temporary: Settling in to a new country means settling to a completely new way of life, a new language, new people and new customs. It will take time to adjust to all this. As you settle in and become more confident in your language ability, make more friends and learn your way around you will start to enjoy and embrace everything that is wonderful about British culture. 2 Different things, familiar things: You may have been surprised by how different the culture is in reality. People may wear different clothes, treat each other differently, behave in new or confusing ways and have different expectations of you. You don’t have to take part in all aspects of British culture, but you do have to accept and embrace that they are the norm here. Remember to do, or have, things that are familiar to you, this could be keeping up your favourite sport, shopping for your favourite food in a world foods store or having a picture of your childhood friends in your room.
3 Make new friends: University is a great mixture of people from British and International backgrounds try and make friends with people from lots of cultures. Other international students, from your country or another, will be having similar experiences to you and will understand how you are feeling as you settle in. 4 Exercise: Exercising regularly has both physical and mental benefits. Helping to keep you fit, improve low mood and boost energy as well as being a great way to meet more people! 5 Take Advantage of all support and opportunities available to you: There is loads of support and opportunities open to you across the University and your Students’ Union. Try something new through a SUBU club or society, take up a new sport with SportBU and relax in the knowledge that SUBU Advice is here should you need help or advice.
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TRAVEL & transport Before driving any vehicle (car, motorbike, van etc) in the UK, you need to check that you meet all of the legal requirements. These apply both to the driver, by making sure you have a valid driving license and to the vehicle, by making sure your motor insurance is correct. You also need to be aware of the correct rules and procedures of driving in the UK, which may be very different from your home country. If you hold a driving licence issued outside of the UK then you can go online to check whether you can use it to drive in the UK. https://www.gov.uk/driving-nongb-licence
by train Bournemouth train station is located approximately 2 miles North of the city centre, on Holdenhurst Road, by the big Asda. There are regular routes to cities around the United Kingdom. Poole is well served by its centrally placed railway station adjacent to the High Street and Dolphin Shopping Centre. London Waterloo is just two hours away on the express service from Poole. This runs twice an hour throughout the day.
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by bus BU operates a dedicated bus service in conjunction with More, a local bus company, that operates as the UNIBUS service across Bournemouth and Poole. Find out all you need to know about our UNIBUS service online: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/buses. Other services are run by ‘Yellow Buses’ and BU students can get child fares on all Yellow Bus routes, if they show their student card. Further information can be accessed on the Yellow Buses website www.bybus.co.uk
by bike There are bike compounds around campus, and we provide discounted lights and D-locks in the Student Shop. BU offer a bike loan scheme if you’re not able to bring one with you. Check online for information about cycle safety and to make the most of the free bike safety check sessions each term: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/ bug Bournemouth and Poole are great places to ride a bike. Whether you are new to cycling or an accomplished rider there is something for everyone a map of the local cycle routes can be found at www.gettingabout.co.uk/ cycling
by taxi There are a number of different taxi services in Bournemouth and Poole. United Taxis - 01202 556677 Streamline - 01202 373737 Mobile Radio Cars - 01202 518000
coaches The Travel Interchange on Bath Rd is Bournemouth’s main coach station and is served by National Express and Megabus delivering journeys all across the country.
travel to, and getTING around london While you are in the UK, you may want to visit the capital city, London, there is loads to do there and transport is really easy to get up there and travel around whilst you are visiting. When you are there and you will most probably make use of the Underground – ‘the Tube’, you can travel by buying a normal ticket, a contactless debit or credit card or by ‘Oyster card’ (this is a pre-paid card that costs £5 that you ‘top up’ with money). This allows you to ‘tap in’ and ‘tap out’ by placing your card on a reader which opens gates to enter and exit the stations - it is the cheapest and easiest option. The Transport for London website has really useful information about travelling in London by Tube, bus, bicycle and even suggested walking routes: https://tfl.gov.uk/
London Tour
Jurassic Coast
Sat 29 Sept 2018 Departs: 09:00 Returns: 18:00
£25
Thorpe Park Fright Night Saturday 20 Oct 2018 Departs: 10:45 Returns: 22:30
Saturday 13 Oct 2018 Departs: 07:45 Returns: 20:00
£25
Oxford Tour £50
Saturday 27 Oct 2018 Departs: 08:00 Returns: 19:00
£25
supermarkets There are a number of supermarkets within the Bournemouth area including an Asda Superstore, Iceland Foods, Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Lidl, Aldi and The Cooperative.
Stonehenge, Salisbury & New Forest Saturday 10 Nov 2018 £39 Departs: 08:45 Returns: 18:00
Bath Christmas Markets Tour Saturday 1 Dec 2018 Departs: 08:45 Returns: 20:00
£25
Book at SUBU Reception, or online at
www.subu.org.uk/daytrips
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food and drink When it comes to food Britain is known for our love of tea, scones and fish and chips on the beach and Bournemouth is the perfect place to try these traditional delights, alongside lots of other food and drink items and you should try them all during your university stay regardless of how unusual they sound.
International food shops There is a whole host of international restaurants and supermarkets in Bournemouth and its surrounding areas so you are almost certain to find some of your home food comforts, just have a walk around or search the internet for your desired tasty treat.
tap water Tap water in UK rates among the best in the world and it’s the most popular drink for people when at home in this country. You can be sure that the water coming out of your tap is clean, healthy, and eco-friendly. It’s also great value: in fact, you can stay hydrated all year for less than £1!
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eating out and eating etiquette here are just a few traditional foods
As with every culture, in the UK there are a number of unspoken rules that are often expected to be adhered to. Don’t worry about it too much – you’ll soon pick them up. • If someone in the UK offers to cook for you, it’s seen as polite and friendly to bring a small gift with you – for example a cake or some chocolates for the host. You don’t have to spend a lot of money – it’s the gesture that counts.
Full English Breakfast (or ‘Fry Up’) England is (in)famous for its hearty breakfasts with a long list of greasy food including: sausages, bacon, hash browns, baked beans, toast, fried eggs, black pudding, grilled tomatoes and mushrooms, scrambled egg, fried bread…
• If you’re at a restaurant with friends, people often decide to ‘split the bill’ equally to avoid complicated calculations. Some restaurants will allow you to pay separately, but not all. • Unless a restaurant includes a ‘service charge’ on the bill, you’re usually expected to leave a tip – between 10 and 15 per cent of the total. There’s no strict rule about this, but if you are happy with the service and you can afford to tip, then it is a custom.
Bangers and Mash An odd name for a very easy meal, this dinner is quite simply sausages with mashed potato. Usually served with onion gravy. Sunday Roast The Sunday Roast is probably the meal that England is most famous for. It consists of roasted meat with all the trimmings, including roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, stuffing, and vegetables. Takeaways In Britain we probably eat other cultures’ food as much as we eat our own. If you are buying it from a restaurant, a very popular way to do it is to get a takeaway. The most popular ones are Indian curries, Chinese food, Kebabs and pizzas- none of which are exactly traditional British meals!
• If you go to the pub with friends in the UK, you might have ‘a round’ of drinks. This means each person in your group takes it in turn to buy drinks for everyone. People might say ‘It’s your round’ when it is your turn to buy. If you don’t want to be part of the round or you can’t afford to, just say so. You can buy drinks for yourself – no one will be annoyed.
how we eat • • • •
In the UK we usually eat breakfast at home before we go to work or study. At about 1pm we have a quick sandwich for lunch, often ‘on the run’ or at our desks. Tea and a snack (usually biscuits) happens mid-afternoon. Between 6pm and 7pm we have dinner, the main, cooked, meal of the day.
restaurants Eating in restaurants can be very expensive in the UK. Many places in Bournemouth do however offer special lunch menus which are cheaper. In the evening, a starter and main course in a mid-price restaurant will cost you £15 on average and a bottle of wine normally costs about £15. If you plan to eat dinner in a restaurant for dinner you should normally expect to arrive between 7pm and 9pm. Restaurants often stop serving at 9.30pm. Some restaurants are closed on Sundays. Many pubs serve food (‘pub grub’) throughout the day. Takeaway meals are very popular, and a lot cheaper. A large ‘kebab’ (flat bread filled with grilled meat and salad) will cost approximately £5. A large pizza will cost on average £10 and can be shared between two people. Takeaway meals can be collected from the restaurant or delivered to your home. Check delivery charges!
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working while you study
Internships and Work Placements
Working and Volunteering on a Tier 4 Visa Students on a Tier 4 Visa will find that they are restricted in terms of how many hours they can work and what kind of work they can and can’t do. This is a basic outline of what those restrictions are and what they may mean for your experience at BU and within SUBU.
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overall Restrictions There are also restrictions on what kind of work can be undertaken by someone on a Tier 4 Visa. These restrictions mean you cannot; • Be self-employed • Engage in business activity • Have a permanent full-time job • Be employed as a professional sportsperson – including a coach. • Be employed as an entertainer • Work as a doctor or dentist in training, unless you are on a course or programme which requires it. This information will be communicated to you before you start the course. A Tier 4 Visa does not allow for self-employment. This means that you MUST have a formal contract of employment to stay in line with your Tier 4 Visa restrictions. Self-employment can be freelance writing, private tutoring or selling goods and services.
Hour Restrictions Students can only work a maximum of 20 hours per week with a week being classed as a 7 day period from Monday to Sunday during term-time. This time cannot be averaged out across several weeks. For example across a two-week period, you will be unable to work 10 hours in the first week and 30 hours in the second week with the justification that it averages out at 20 hours each week. If you don’t work the full 20 hours, whatever is left over cannot be carried over to the next week. These hourly restrictions apply to paid and unpaid work such as volunteering. If you are interested in volunteering while still holding a part-time job then be sure to check that the two combined do not exceed more than the allowed 20 hours a week. Those on a Tier 4 Visa are able to work full-time during official BU vacation periods. These vacation periods may vary depending on level of study so be sure to check the dates for your course beforehand.
Undergraduate and Master’s students are able to undertake an internship during official BU vacation periods. For graduate research students, vacation periods may depend on the length of the piece of research. This means that depending on the dates of your official vacation periods, you may be unable to take up an internship unless it is required for the course. This information will be communicated to you beforehand.
Working after Study Once your course is completed and your Tier 4 Visa is still valid, you are allowed to work within these restrictions; • You cannot be self-employed • You cannot be employed as an entertainer • You cannot be employed as professional sportsperson – including a coach • You cannot be employed as a doctor or dentist in training (Except on a recognised Foundation programme) Course completion is recognised as having an official document stating that you have completed your studies.
subu advice For questions regarding working on a Tier 4 Visa, please contact SUBU Advice: Email: subuadvice@bournemouth.ac.uk Main reception (SC202): 01202 965779 Facebook: SUBUAdvice Bournemouth Bournemouth House (BG07): 01202 967369 Twitter: @SUBUAdvice Text: 07501622462 Instagram: subuadvice SUBU Advice is also available on Talbot and Lansdowne campuses. STUDENT CENTRE: SC202. Open for enquiries Mon-Fri, 10:00-16:00 all year (except BU Christmas closure) Drop-in session: Mon-Fri, 14:00 - 16:00 BOURNEMOUTH HOUSE: BG07. Open for enquiries Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 09:30-14:00 term time only.
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finance opening a bank account You should be able to open a basic bank account with a number of different banks in the UK, and they will provide easy access to banking facilities. Some banks even offer a bank account tailored specifically for your needs as an international student. If you have any questions then come and find SUBU Advice and they can help answer your questions.
Cost of living and Budgeting To plan your finances and budget wisely you need to think about all your living costs such as accommodation, food and travel. You also will have to pay for daily essentials such as food, socialising and clothing, although the amount may vary. Setting up a budget is all well and good, but it can be difficult to plan properly before you’ve arrived at university and worked out how much everything costs each week or month. The information below is designed as a guide to your living expenses at university. You will be able to calculate your own personal budget once you know your outgoings. You may find one of this online calculator can help you work out your budget: international.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
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Budgeting can be tricky, especially if you have a limited income or not had to budget you’re finances before. When the unexpected occurs your budget may fall apart and you feel your forever playing catchup. Here are some useful ways you can save money: Cook for yourself and buy in bulk - It can be tempting to eat out, but buying your food from a supermarket and cooking together in a group is great for saving cash as well as a fun experience. Student discounts – The NUS Extra discount card can get you over 200 UK student discounts and comes with 1 year FREE ISIC un-locking over 42,000 international discounts. Find things you want cheaper or free - Before you rush into buying and paying full retail price, try looking for deals online and ask other students where to go. Saving on travel - If you travel the same route regularly it is usually cheaper to buy a season ticket and often buying in advance can save you money as well.
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HEALTHCARE How healthcare works in the UK The healthcare system in the United Kingdom is called the National Health Service (NHS) and it provides a wide range of services including appointments with a doctor, hospital treatment and dental care. There may be fees for “overseas visitors” (including students) but a lot of the treatments provided by the NHS are free for everyone: • accident and emergency services (but not follow-up treatment, or admission as an • in-patient to hospital) • family planning services • diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections • diagnosis and treatment of certain infectious diseases • treatment of conditions caused by torture, female genital mutilation, domestic violence or sexual violence (provided you did not come to the UK for the specific purpose of seeking such treatment) • compulsory psychiatric treatment or treatment that has been ordered by a court • treatment in prison or immigration detention 111 is the NHS non-emergency number. It’s fast, easy and free. Call 111 and speak to a highly trained adviser, supported by healthcare professionals.
OPTICIANS Eye care is provided by opticians who usually operate from high street shops
PRESCRIPTIONS In England, most people need to pay for prescriptions
healthcare ON CAMPUS The Student Medical Centre, in partnership with Talbot Medical Centre, offers a range of medical services, it is open to all students and daily appointments are available. You’ll be a fully registered patient with a named GP and access to provisions for out of hours emergency support. Registration forms are available in the medical centre located in Talbot House, Talbot Campus, contact student medical centre: During term-time Telephone: T: +44 (0)1202 965378 Outside term-time Telephone: T: +44 (0)8444 772416
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ACCOMMODATION All students starting the first year of a course are provided with accommodation via the BU Accommodation Service. After your first year it is your responsibility to find and secure your accommodation. If you intend to move in with other students then it’s a good idea to ensure you agree on price, location and facilities before starting your search, make sure you get as much information as you can, as early as possible. LettingsBU is Bournemouth University’s inhouse agency that helps students find suitable accommodation in the private rented sector. Many of the properties advertised are aimed at housesharing groups, but there are some properties that are suitable for families and couples. LettingsBU may also be able to support you with securing a property that isn’t on their books.
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DO I NEED A GUARANTOR? It is most likely that you will need a guarantor. This is someone who signs to agree they will cover the rent and cost of any damages if you fail to do so. The guarantor needs to be resident in the UK and so for international students you may be required to pay all the rent up front, or pay a larger deposit. SUBU Advice will be able to give you more information on this.
If you have any accommodation questions or need support then SUBU Advice is always available. SUBU Advice: subuadvice@bournemouth.ac.uk main office: 01202 967369 BU Residential Services: • New and current students: accommodation@bournemouth.ac.uk • Prospective students: askBUenquiries@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 961671 BU Lettings Service: • lettingservice@bournemouth.ac.uk 01202 961678
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COUNCIL TAX Council Tax is something that is applied to every household in the UK and the money paid from the tenants in the house goes towards the running of local government services such as street cleaning and waste collection and the police and fire services. Most full time students are eligible for Council Tax exemption, you just will need to request a council tax exemption certificate from AskBU and send it to your local council office. AskBU contact details: +44 (0)1202 969696
UTILITY When living in a private house you will be expected to pay a number of utility bills for the up keep of the house such as: Gas & Electric, Water & Sewerage, Internet, etc. Sometimes these are included within the rent although most of the time these bills are separate. Your letting agent should be able to give you more information about this.
mobile phone When you first arrive, you can use your existing mobile phone service from home to make calls within the UK, but you are likely to be charged for the cost of an overseas call. Check with your home provider what rates they will charge for calls and text messages when you are outside your home country. For making telephone calls overseas, it can be cheaper to use an international calling card. You can buy phone cards online or from some newsagents or kiosks in the UK. If you need to call home often, you might save money using a network like Lebara which specialises in international calls. It may be cheaper to use internet calling through services like Skype.
tv licensing If you have a television at university then you must pay an annual TV Licence. If you are sharing a house, than you only need one licence to cover all the TVs in the house and you can share the cost of this. Find out more about the TV Licence here: www.tvlicensing.co.uk
recycling & rubbish disposal Make a note of bin emptying days, you can find the information online or ask your neighbours if you’re unsure. In Bournemouth there are three types of bins - general waste, recycling and food waste, so remember to separate your waste. Contact your landlord to arrange an extra bin for you if you are living in a large shared house – if you have issues speak to SUBU Advice.
Safety (lock up, burglaries) Student houses are a target for burglaries - make sure you lock up doors and close all windows when you go out. Endsleigh Insurance specialises in insuring students. Bournemouth University have put in place a number of measures to help keep your bike safe from thieves, including secure cycle compounds on both campuses, however if your bike is valuable then get it insured. Visit Poole House reception to update your student card for access to the compounds. There are some high quality bicycle D locks and lights and these can be bought from the Students’ Union shop at greatly reduced prices. The Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) are local police that patrol Bournemouth. Feel free to speak to them on further advice. They can also help you tag any of your valuables with a UV pen for security.
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Studying at Bournemouth University STUDY SKILLS To help you reach your full potential the Study Skills Community provides online and face-to face support. Online materials, workshops and individual sessions are available to help you improve academic skills like note-taking, academic writing, revision/exam techniques and referencing.
independent learning The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) can be accessed at any time and from anywhere, you’ll find lecture notes, reading lists, and helpful learning resources such as online journals and past exam papers. This is also where you will submit assignments and can access communities such as Study Skills and Languages@BU. You may want to try out the interactive skills4study package: www.skills4studycampus. com/ institution/Bournemouth.html
PEER ASSITED LEARNING These group sessions are a great way to learn study techniques relevant to your subject from a student from your course. Students who have taken part in these sessions have said it’s boosted their confidence and reassured them about any concerns they had about university life.
CAREER SUPPORT Our team of careers advisors, placement coordinators and development advisors will support you in preparing for and during your placement, and again when you are looking for work. Careers & Employability Service Telephone: +44 (0)1202 961663 careers@bournemouth.ac.uk www.bournemouth.ac.uk/careers
timetable Your academic timetable includes details of all your lectures, seminars and other learningsessions relevant to your course, like lab work or workshops. After Week One you’ll also be able to view your timetable in our iBU app.
ADDITIONAL LEARNING SUPPORT If you have a learning difference, a medical or mental health condition, or a sensory or physical impairment, adjustments can be made to your learning and assessment. Contact the Additional Learning Support (ALS) team so they can advise on the most appropriate support for you, including potential funding benefits. The sooner you contact them, the sooner they can start preparing your support. www.bournemouth.ac.uk/als
SOFTWARE While you are a BU student you’re able to have Office 365 ProPlus for free, thanks to the licencing partnership between BU and Microsoft. Office 365 ProPlus includes all the familiar and full Office applications and allows for these to be installed on up to five devices.
library and study support If you are concerned about your return to education, or just want to brush up on some study skills, then BU’s library service is there to help. They can help you with a wide range of skills including: Academic writing, critical analysis, exam and revision techniques, presentations, referencing, avoiding plagiarism. Pop along to the library or access the Study Skills tab on myBU to ask questions, sign up to any workshops or arrange a meeting with an advisor for one-to-one help: studyskills@bournemouth.ac.uk
open access centres The Open Access Centres are computer labs open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There’s one in Poole House at Talbot Campus and another in Studland House at Lansdowne Campus.
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LIBRARY OPENING HOURS SIR MICHAEL COBHAM library, TALBOT CAMPUS Mon – Thus: 8:00 am - midnight Friday: 8am – 6pm Sat & Sun: 10am – 6pm
bournemouth house library, lansdowne CAMPUS Mon – Thus: 8:00 am - midnight Friday: 8am – 6pm Saturday: 10am-6pm Sunday: 10am - 10pm
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Student support services askbu
student wellbeing
The AskBU advisers can help with practical things like letters confirming you’re a student, replacement ID cards, information about finance, immigration, mitigating circumstances and complaints. Contact AskBU +44 (0)1202 969696 by email: askBU@bournemouth.ac.uk www.bournemouth.ac.uk/askBU and are based on both campuses offering a friendly drop-in service – (they also have interview rooms if more privacy is needed).
The Student Wellbeing service is provided in partnership with our local NHS Foundation Trust, offering free support aimed at boosting your resilience, improving your wellbeing and managing your mental health. Services include drop-in sessions, workshops, group and individual wellbeing sessions and counselling.
CHAPLAINCY Whatever your background or faith the Chaplaincy offers a welcoming environment as well as guidance and support throughout your studies, and provides space for reflection on Talbot campus, including an Islamic Prayer Room with wash facilities, as well as a Kosher kitchen.
www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/wellbeing
health and fitness Everyone can make the most of SportBU’s excellent facilities - whether that’s playing a sport you already love or giving you the opportunity to try something new. Take part in the Campus pay and play sports where no booking is required, sign up to a six week campus course, or try out for a performance sport. www.microsites.bournemouth.ac.uk/sportbu
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GET ADVICE ON MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE AT BU Making friends, staying healthy, being an independent learner and more from our bloggers and vloggers: www.bournemouth.ac.uk/pg-student-blogs - www.bournemouth.ac.uk/ug-student-blogs
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SUBU will have a positive impact on every BU student’s journey.
@sububournemouth #wearestudents
STUDENTS’ UNION AT BOURNEMOUTH UNIVERSITY subu advice
ADVICE
SUBU Advice is here to support you in every aspect of your student experience whether it is personal, financial, academic or housing. As an international student we understand that moving to the UK to study can be exciting and scary at the same time. SUBU Advice is here to help you with any issues you may face, except for visa’s (these can only be done via AskBU.)
If you need to speak to one of our advisors you are welcome to come and see us in SC202 in the Talbot student centre between 10 and 4pm Monday to Friday , we have a drop in session between 2 and 4pm which does not need an appointment. We also run advice at Lansdowne term time only 9.30 until 2pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. If you just need to ask a quick question then give us a call on 01202965779 or email us:
democracy and equality Democracy and Equality provide various channels for students to have their say on issues, including Elections, Big Student Meeting, Liberation Campaigns, Mental Health Zone, International Student Zone and Student Councils. SUBU is run for students by students; we hold elections for our full time sabbatical and part-time officers. Any BU student can run to be an officer and elections for our Executive Council and Student Councils.
part time officer • Activities Council • Community Council • Education Council • Lansdowne Council • Welfare Council
Becoming a part-time officer is a great way to meet new people, learn new skills, access our SUBU Leadership Award and gain bag loads of confidence. SUBU is committed to equality of access for all and celebrates the diversity of every student at BU. We are proud to introduce Liberation Campaigns this year, these groups provide a community made up of, and led by, students who self-identify within that liberation group to build friendships, share experiences, discuss issues, raise awareness and campaign for change.
AWARENESS AND CAMPAIGN ZONES
LIBERATION CAMPAIGNS
Liberation Campaigns are run by a Liberation Campaign Committee, led by the relevant liberation officer. Why not consider running for election to one of these committees? You’ll have bucket loads of fun, make great friends and receive loads of support and training from the fulltime officers and SUBU staff!
Our two Zones: the Mental Health Zone and International Students’ Zone, led by a committee and team of project leaders are here to raise awareness and campaign on specific issues. The Mental Health Zone is all about promoting positive mental wellbeing on-campus and at home, raising awareness of mental health and challenging stigma. The International Students’ Zone is here to focus on our community of International Students’ which ranges from campaigning for change to helping to organise and deliver our annual One World Festival.
subuadvice@bournemouth.ac.uk
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SUBU will have a positive impact on every BU student’s journey.
@sububournemouth #wearefreshers @sububournemouth #wearestudents
over
representation We have 1 Student Rep to every 20 students, they work in partnership with BU to make the student experience better for all students. They are elected by their peers and collect feedback throughout the academic year, taking that feedback to the university and working with them to create change.
insight and policy (Go Out and Talk)
community
SUBU Community gives students the skills and opportunities to get involved in the local Bournemouth Community. This includes volunteering activities and events such as beach cleans, Fairtrade awareness and sustainability campaigns.information on how to get to campus and your placement. www.bournemouth.ac.uk/student/parking
SUBU’s Insight and Policy department is fundamental in providing SUBU and BU with evidence-based research about the current and future issues that matter to students. The research is used to represent the student experience and inform policy development, both at BU and on a national level.
subu facilities
Our facilities include a range of venues to cater to all tastes; the 5 storey Student Centre hosts the SUBU cafe ‘Ground Up’, serving Starbucks coffee as well as a number of spaces to do work including two beach huts that can be booked out. If you fancy a burger and a beer then head to Dylan’s Kitchen, or if you need some essentials then the Student Shop is the place to go. The Lansdowne campus is home to the Boho Lounge, a great spot to meet with your friends, there’s also The Engine Room café, which serves food and drinks all day, and as well as all of this you can attend concerts + clubnights at your Students’ Union venue The Old Fire Station.
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RAG
clubs & socs clubs & socs Our variety of Clubs and Societies are here for every student at BU, inclusive of people from all different backgrounds; be that culture, religion, age or interest! If there’s not a Club or Society that suits you, then you can always start one up. Go aove and beyond your degree, meet new people, develop new passions and experience something new. Get involved now, and make your BU experience truly unforgettable.
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SUBU will have a positive impact on every BU student’s journey.
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NUS SAVINGS
Y UR MONE MAKE YO
ER H T R U F O G Hailey .M Tshuma National Union of Students 10% OFF
exp: 09/09/19
Ts & Cs apply
rything nts on eve Big discou azon to Zavvi from Am
The essential student discount card
10% OFF
OFFERS & DISCOUNTS
10% OFF
10% OFF GADGET COVER
20% OFF
ONLY £25 PER STUDENT
12% OFF
UP TO 50% OFF
UP TO 40% OFF
25% OFF STUDENT TICKET PRICE
25% OFF ONLINE
10% OFF
Order online or from SUBU Reception (The Student Centre)
m.com Go to totucard now r u to get yo @wearetotum
Details correct at time of release (August 2018) See online for T&Cs.
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IS NOW TOTUM
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@sububournemouth #wearestudents
SUBU will have a positive impact on every BU student’s journey.
STUDENT SHOP
TALBOT CAMPUS
Everything from affordable meal deals, to BU merchandise, snacks, newspapers and event tickets!
Lansdowne CAMPUS STUDLAND house At the heart of Lansdowne Campus, with social spaces and a café to help you relax. The SUBU Office is on the ground floor.
THE STUDENT CENTRE G - Ground Up Café
5
SportBU Study space
1 - Reception
5
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Full-Time Officers Representation Study space
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3 - Study space
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Offering delicious food and drink throughout the week at the best student prices!
dylan’s KITCHEN & bar
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B SU
4 - Democracy and Equality
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Nerve Media Hub Study space
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+ Engine Rooms with Syron The perfect place to grab a coffee or Yorkie Wrap by day, the best place to party by night!
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Journey Indicator
G The Student Centre Dylan’s Kitchen & Bar Student Shop
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The ultimate Students’ Union nightclub, bringing you epic club nights and live entertainment throughout the week.
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Lady Cobham Bridge
5 - Study space
bournemouth house Chill out in the BoHo Lounge or garden while you work. SUBU Advice is in room BG07 and on the first floor there is a cosy chill out lounge (B130).
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2 - Activities
Community Action Team Sustainability Action Team Volunteering Advice Study space
the old fire station
Charminster Cemetery Junction
Winton
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Approx time in minutes
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20
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15
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Cranborne Chesil Purbeck
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Bournemouth House Boho Lounge Home Park Studland House
Old Fire Station Engine Room Lyme Regis
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Dorchester House
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SUBU will have a positive impact on every BU student’s journey.
outdoors
things to do
afc bournemouth
Make the most of your time in this beautiful, southern seaside resort by exploring all that is on offer.
Bournemouth is home to seven miles of awardwinning beach complete with great views of The Isle Of Wight and The Purbecks. This section of the Jurassic Coast offers a number of water sports, as well as the opportunity to hire a bike and ride around the 2,000 acres of glorious gardens and parks, why not stop off on the way and have a go at mini gold. The shops in the area range from high street favourites to independent boutiques plus the Open Air Market. You can always visit one of the many museums in the area or if that doesn’t excite you then you can check out the beachfront Oceanarium. There are also a number of festivals that take place throughout the year from the Arts by the Sea to Air Festival.
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events & concerts
Bournemouth is home to a variety of concert venues including the Bournemouth International Centre, The Bournemouth Pavillion and the Grade II 02 Academy
BU is the official Higher Education Partner for AFC Bournemouth, bringing sport, education and the community together. As a BU student you can get access to discounted tickets and merchandise, as well as the opportunity to be a Student Ambassador representing AFC Bournemouth and BU. www.afcb. co.uk/ or www1.bournemouth. ac.uk/ collaborate/afc-bournemouth
Tower Park Leisure Complex in Poole, provides a whole host of entertainment whatever the weather, with Splashdown water park and Empire Cinema, Tenpin bowling, kids soft play, bingo and a range of restaurants there is plenty on offer as well as a lovely student discount.
tower park
bh2 leisure complex
This new £50 million leisure complex is in the heart of Bournemouth town centre and as a wide range of restaurants as well as a 10 screen cinema.
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DEMOCRACY & EQUALITY