ng In Sheffi d Livi Essential Guides 2014.
Living In Sheffield.
All you need to know about our city and accommodation.
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A world-class university
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In a unique city
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Our international reputation for academic excellence attracts students and staff from all over the world. You’ll meet people who will welcome you into our community and make your Sheffield experience unforgettable. www.sheffield.ac.uk/international
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Our unique city Sheffield is the best place for students in the UK. You can enjoy all the advantages of living in a large and vibrant city that is both safe and affordable. Sheffield is home to over half a million people, including more than 60,000 students. It’s situated centrally in the UK, bordering the beautiful Peak District National Park. Sheffield’s location means travelling to other major cities is easy, with London being just over two hours away by train. There are also five airports close by, including Manchester International, East Midlands and Birmingham.
City Hall 6
People from all over the world have made Sheffield their home. It’s a rich, diverse, multicultural city that has rightly earned its reputation for being the friendliest and safest of cities in the UK. Sheffield is always developing and yet it has kept its sense of community. We’re proud that our city recognises its students as a real asset and offers you such a warm welcome. Students are part of everyday city life in Sheffield and feel a strong connection and sense of pride to the city too.
The University is home to over 6000 international students from more than 115 countries.
By train
Sheffield is England’s 4th largest city.
Birmingham 1 hour 7 mins Bristol 2 hours 47 mins Cardiff 3 hours 22 mins Edinburgh 3 hours 20 mins Leeds 40 mins Leicester 56 mins Liverpool 1 hour 42 mins London 2 hours 5 mins Manchester 48 mins Nottingham 51 mins
Edinburgh ◊
Belfast ◊
Dublin ◊
◊ Leeds Liverpool ◊ ◊ Manchester
◊ Sheffield
Peak District National Park
◊ Nottingham ◊ Leicester ◊ Birmingham
Cardiff ◊
◊ London ◊ Bristol
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Places in the city Hunter’s Bar From Sharrowvale Road to Ecclesall Road, this is a thriving area with a fantastic mix of independent and high street stores. Restaurants, cafes, art galleries and boutiques share the tree-lined streets. Ecclesall has some of Sheffield’s very best green spaces with the Botanical Gardens and Endcliffe Park nearby. The parks host a great range of special events including circuses, fairs and open-air concerts.
City centre The city centre is compact, easy to walk around, and has good pedestrian areas. There are plenty of national chain stores as well as independent shops, and a large, inexpensive indoor market area – The Moor Market – that is open every day except Sunday. Although the centre is quite small, Sheffield’s suburbs spread out over a very large area, and these have kept their own individual character. Botanical Gardens
Ecclesall Road
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Ranmoor This is one of the most desirable suburbs in Sheffield. It’s close to the city centre but has its own peaceful and tranquil setting with tree-lined streets, large gardens and grand properties. Considerable numbers of students live close by in University accommodation (see page 30) and it is conveniently placed for public transport, walking to campus and the local shops in Broomhill.
Crookes Another popular area for students, with streets lined with Victorian and Edwardian properties. The main shopping street is home to a good selection of food shops and supermarkets, fast food outlets and general stores. Crookes is very close to the University and the city centre so getting around is easy, and it is only a short walk away from two public parks.
Walkley Quieter than Broomhill or Crookes, Walkley’s residents and students form a strong community. It has distinctive shops, eateries, a snooker hall and good walks at Rivelin Valley.
City Centre
Broomhill A busy shopping and residential area popular with students, and is very close to campus, University accommodation (see page 30) and the city centre. It has an interesting mix of shops, cafes and bars and is only a short walk away from the Botanical Gardens. The area is well served by frequent buses to the University and city centre, which is only one mile away.
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Sheffield Train Station
Getting around The majority of our students choose to walk when going to and from campus or travelling short distances. This is the best way to become familiar with the local area and find the nearest shops, supermarkets and cafes to your home. Cycles are very popular too and all University accommodation has secure cycle stores. Free cycle parking facilities are available close to all academic buildings and several cycle routes serve the central campus and main residential areas. The University operates a ‘green’ transport policy which promotes the use of public transport and healthy options such as cycling and walking. 10
All University accommodation is within walking distance of campus and is on good public transport routes. The women’s minibus service takes you safely home at night from the Students’ Union for just £1.50.
Public transport The city of Sheffield and surrounding districts are well served by an extensive network of bus and tram services. These are frequent and the most popular choice of transport for local people. Stops are at fixed points and you pay on board. Unirider is a heavily discounted, term time travel ticket that gives unlimited travel on any Stagecoach tram or bus in Sheffield. Tickets are only available for sale online at: www.supertram.com/unirider.html Information for trams can be found at: www.supertram.com Timetables for buses can be found at: www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/ timetables/sheffield
Cars We strongly recommend that you do not bring a car with you to Sheffield. Car parking at the University is by permit only. Availability is limited and a fee will apply. Further information can be found at: www.sheffield.ac.uk/parkingservices Parking your car on the street can be expensive. Spaces close to campus, on main roads or in the city centre charge per hour. In some residential areas you will need a permit to park on the street where you live. You will need to pay for the permit and apply to the Sheffield City Council. The cost of fuel in the UK is currently averaging £1.35 per litre for unleaded petrol and £1.40 per litre for diesel, so this is also worth taking into account before you make your decision.
Sheffield Train Station
Personal safety As Sheffield is England’s safest major city (UK Peace Index 2013) it’s safe to walk around the city and to and from University accommodation. We are concerned about the safety of all our students but women’s safety needs are different to men’s. The Students’ Union therefore has a variety of support services for women students. This includes a women’s minibus that takes you directly to your door, anywhere within a two mile radius of the Students’ Union. For just £1.50 it helps you get home safely in the evenings. This is the same price as the tram and much cheaper than a taxi. All University accommodation and popular student areas are within this two mile distance. More information regarding student safety can be found at: www.sheffield.ac.uk/union/advice/safetyand-security 11
Getting around Everything’s within walking distance and buses run every 8-10 minutes between University accommodation (see page 30) and the main campus or city centre throughout the day.
Wal
Approximately five minutes’ walk (250m) Rivelin Valley
Crookes
Approximately ten minutes’ bus ride (1km)
250M
500M
750M
1KM
1KM 250M
1KM 500M
1KM 750M
2KM
Peak District
Weston Park
Broomhill
The Ranmoor Village University accommodation
The Endcliffe Village
Botan Garde
Parks and gardens Bars and restaurants Endcliffe Park Shopping Hunter’s Bar Theatres Galleries
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Sharrow Vale Road
lkley
nical ens
Kelham Island
City and Central Campus accommodation Main campus
Meadowhall
Cathedral Leopold Square Tudor Square
West Street Devonshire Quarter
City centre
Graves Gallery
Winter Garden Moor Market
Train station
Millennium Galleries
London Road Abbeydale Road LO ND ON AD RO
Map for illustration purposes only.
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Shopping Shopping for essentials We advise you not to purchase any books or stationery until you arrive. All stationery is available cheaply in the Students’ Union shop. Sheffield has many good bookshops and it is possible to buy standard texts and other teaching material secondhand, either from charity shops, online or from other students; look out for advertisements on your departmental noticeboard.
Food Supermarkets are everywhere, in and around the city and close to campus and our accommodation. Some of these are open 24 hours. The Moor Market offers prices that are usually lower than high street shops or supermarkets. There is a good range of halal, kosher and international food providers, see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/handbook/ shopping/food
Whatever your budget, Sheffield has everything for the keen shopper – from malls to markets, chain store favourites to designer labels.
Economy shopping The city centre shopping area is good for buying food, clothes and household goods and there are many discount department stores. These are very useful for buying bedding and other household items if you are on a budget. Second-hand clothes shops and charity shops such as Oxfam, Help the Aged and Save the Children are close by and can be useful, and there are often secondhand clothes and shoes on sale during the Students’ Union market days. The main student shopping areas for daily needs are in the Broomhill, Crookes, Hunter’s Bar and London Road areas and these are all close to campus and our accommodation. The shops are generally open between 9.00am and 5.30pm every day except Sunday. 14
The Moor Market. Image credit: The Star thestar.co.uk
The Moor Market opened in 2013. It has 196 stalls with products ranging from fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and fish to jewellery, shoe repairs, clothes and newsagents.
Meadowhall
Meadowhall. Image credit: Ant Oxley
A tram ride away from the University is Meadowhall. It has all the major brand shops, including the Apple Store and there are plenty of restaurants, cafes and fast food outlets to choose from. It also has a multi-screen cinema complex. 15
Food As you would expect from such a large, multicultural city there is a wide range of international cuisine on offer. Only minutes from campus you will find food from all over the world. Vegetarians are always well catered for and halal food is widely available. The University offers plenty of choice on campus and in our accommodation. There will be lots of opportunities to sample traditional British food as well as the many international options on offer. We cater for different religious and ethical needs, provide halal and vegetarian options, and support students during Ramadan. We use fresh, local produce and are recognised as a Fairtrade University. Catered accommodation is a great way to budget and ideal if you don’t like to cook. You can find more information about this type of accommodation on p33. If you have any specific dietary requirements, speak to a member of the University’s catering team who will be able to provide assistance both on campus and in our accommodation.
Leopold Square, City Centre 16
London Road
The Edge
Cafe Nero, Ecclesall Road
Cafes and bars There are many cafes in and around the city, with plenty of choice near campus and the student residential areas. The University has a good range on campus and in our accommodation which are open throughout the day and are very popular with both students and staff. Bars and pubs are an important part of British culture, particularly with younger people and students. Sheffield has a large variety that cater for all tastes, many of which serve relatively inexpensive food as well as hot drinks. There are several bars on campus that are always busy, and these also provide a range of activities, concerts and events throughout the year.
There’s something for every taste here in Sheffield, from Michelin star award-winning restaurants, to cafes ideal for the student budget.
In the UK it is quite acceptable for women to use bars, pubs and restaurants without male companions, and there is no pressure on anyone to drink alcohol. Soft drinks are always available for you to order.
Bungalows and Bears, Devonshire Quarter 17
The Crucible and Lyceum
Cinemas and theatres Three distinctive venues form one of the most important theatre complexes in the UK. Sheffield Theatres comprises The Crucible, Studio and Lyceum which overlook Tudor Square in Sheffield’s city centre and present a lively mixture of the classics, contemporary drama and family musicals. Sheffield City Hall, also in the city centre, is a famous venue for holding both popular and classical music concerts, as well as theatrical productions. As you would expect in a major UK city, Sheffield has a number of cinemas to choose from. From the largest independent cinema outside of London, The Showroom, to the popular multi screen venues which show all the latest Hollywood blockbusters. 18
The Showroom
The Film Unit is the University’s own 400-seat cinema located on campus and we also have our own University Drama Studio, which stages a wide variety of drama, dance, opera and music productions throughout the year.
Galleries and museums Sheffield is home to several important galleries and museums. The Millennium Gallery has close links with the Tate and the V&A in London. The Graves gallery has a permanent collection of modern art. Here you can see works by Picasso, Lautrec, and Hockney amongst others. It is also worth looking out for any future temporary exhibitions, as recently these have featured Dali, Goya, Blake and Warhol. Weston Park museum has a series of temporary exhibitions alongside permanent features. It’s free and a great place to take children. www.museums-sheffield.org.uk The Millenium Gallery
Sheffield Theatres have been named the best theatre outside London for two years running.
The Site Gallery specialises in photography, film, video and new media from around the world and is one of the UK’s leaders in exhibiting contemporary art. The S1 Artspace is a young, artist-led organisation and has the most artists’ studios outside of London. They have an annual artist in residence and a varied programme of exhibitions and screenings.
Weston Park Museum 19
Music and festivals Sheffield has a continual calendar of events, concerts, festivals and fairs throughout the year. Here is just a small selection of what you can expect.
Peace in the Park Anything goes at this event, which is always popular with students. There is live music and DJ tents, cabarets and stalls as well as plenty of food and drink.
Sensoria The UK’s festival of film and music celebrates Sheffield’s rich musical heritage. The festival has risk-taking and innovation at its core and it is both informal and informative.
Festival of the Mind This is a unique collaboration between the University and the city’s creative community. The Festival of the Mind is a chance to see your lecturers putting on events with local artists, poets, musicians and magicians.
Tramlines Sheffield’s parks, pubs and public spaces become one big music venue for the weekend. It is hugely popular and was voted the Best Metropolitan Festival 2011.
Doc/fest An international film festival in the heart of the city. Expect back-to-back screenings and talks by influential documentary filmmakers.
Off the Shelf For those who love reading. Off the Shelf attracts well-known literary names, and there are readings, workshops talks and author signings held throughout October.
Sheffield Food Festival This is a free festival for all those interested in food and cooking, with pop-up restaurants, local food markets and professional cookery classes. 20
Festival of the Mind
Tramlines
Sheffield is one of the leading cultural centres in the UK and is the home of many influential bands and artists. 21
There are around 50 public parks, gardens and specially designed public areas, many of which are close to campus and the city centre. Peak District 22
Parks and peaks 62% of Sheffield is green space and a third of the city is inside the Peak District National Park.
Weston Park Weston Park is next door to campus, and our library overlooks its grounds. It is a popular place with students and the general public when the weather is good.
Botanical Gardens Close to our student accommodation (see page 30) is the Botanical Gardens. The gardens were first opened in 1836 and are a very nice place for a walk at any time of year. They are made up of 15 different garden areas and are home to a large variety of plants, and some of the earliest glass pavilions constructed.
Endcliffe Park Endcliffe Park is five minutes walk away from our accommodation and is a great place to meet up with friends and take a stroll.
Winter Garden In the city centre, the Winter Garden is the largest temperate glasshouse in any European city and is home to more than 2,000 plants. The building is an architectural spectacle in itself and is located next to the Millennium Gallery.
Peak District You can get to the Peak District by bus in just 25 minutes from the city centre. This dramatic countryside covers 555 square miles and attracts an estimated 22 million visitors every year. Chatsworth House, home to the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, is one of the UK’s most popular stately homes and is definitely worth a visit.
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Sport Sheffield is the UK’s first National City of Sport. Facilities include an Olympicsized swimming pool, golf courses, sports arenas and an ice rink. If you like climbing, cycling or walking in the countryside, the stunning Peak District National Park provides the perfect setting. Closer to home, we have many public parks which are ideal if you want to go running or jogging, and every year Sheffield hosts the Great Yorkshire Run and its own half marathon. We have two football teams – Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday who play from August through to May every year. Our rugby, ice hockey and basketball teams compete at national levels and the World Snooker Championships are held at The Crucible (see page 18) every year.
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Sport Sheffield You’ll love our location Sport Sheffield manages all aspects of sport, health and fitness at the University. The Goodwin Sport Centre is located between University accommodation (Ranmoor and Endcliffe Villages) and the main campus. We are also only a 20 minute bus ride from the Peak District. Perfect if you’re a climber, walker or cyclist.
Be active, healthy and happy Our fitness centre, S10 Health has over 170 pieces of equipment. Take part in the programme of group fitness classes (50+ classes) and improve your personal wellbeing through planned sessions and activities. For membership offers, class times and more see: www.sport-sheffield.com
A wide range of excellent facilities Our facilities include five floodlit synthetic pitches; a large fitness centre; a swimming pool with sauna and steam rooms; a sports hall; a fitness studio; multipurpose activity rooms; four squash courts; a bouldering wall and 45 acres of grass playing fields for rugby, football and cricket. Residence Life Programme: free sport If you live in University accommodation, you are entitled to a range of sporting activities free of charge through the Residence Life Programme. From football leagues and basketball sessions to run clubs, netball and fitness classes. There is plenty to get involved with. You can keep fit, make friends and have fun.
You can pay for most sports facilities on a pay as you use basis.
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Best in the UK 93% satisfaction, National Student Survey 2013
The UK’s No 1 for five years running*
Students’ Union of the Year
The Times Higher Student Experience Survey 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
NUS Awards 2008
*joint 1st in 2009 and 2010 26
The best Students’ Union What the awards mean The entertainment and the social life are first rate. But there’s more to a successful students’ union than cafes, bars and live music. The awards also reflect how effective our Students’ Union is at representing you and delivering the services you ask for. Investing in the UK’s best Our Students’ Union had a £20-million refurbishment in 2013 so you’ll be one of the first to enjoy our state-of-the-art new building.
Student Advice Centre As part of the Students’ Union you’ll find the Student Advice Centre. This is a free and confidential service. Trained advisers can offer help with managing money, housing, academic matters, employment, immigration and welfare. www.sheffield.ac.uk/union/advice
A team of elected students represents your interests and delivers the services you ask for. The team includes an International Students’ Officer.
Membership When you become a student at the University you automatically become a member of our Students’ Union. Your University of Sheffield identification card acts as your membership card for the Students’ Union. www.sheffield.ac.uk/union
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Getting involved There is regular entertainment at the Students’ Union and the bars, cafes and shops are open into the evening, seven days a week. Free WiFi access is available and computers are provided throughout the building. Many events are specifically organised by and for our international students.
Located in the heart of the campus, the Students’ Union is the centre of student life, with over 300 clubs and societies. 28
The Activities and Sports Zone There is always a high level of participation in the various clubs and societies coordinated through The Activities and Sports Zone. Located in the Students’ Union, they are open seven days a week, and this is where you can find out how to get involved with sports clubs, societies, volunteering and fundraising opportunities. ‘Give it a Go’ is an award-winning programme full of one-off introductory activities and events, where you can try new things, learn new skills, make new friends and visit different places. You don’t need any experience to take part and you get the chance to try out as many activities, sports and courses as you like. www.sheffieldsu.com/giveitago
Activities and events
World Week
National holidays and festivals are recognised, and we always enjoy celebrating the different traditions and cultures from around the world.
Organised by our international students, this is a week long celebration of our on-campus diversity. Each day there are fun activities and cultural events, and the week finishes with an international parade through the city of Sheffield.
Intro Fiesta The Intro Fiesta offers you an international welcome to Sheffield. You can meet students from other countries, watch exciting performances and listen to music from around the world. It’s the first major international event of the year and a great introduction to Sheffield life.
World Food Festival This is one of the most popular events of the year. National societies prepare traditional dishes from their home countries and compete to impress a panel of judges. Don’t miss this chance to experience such a large and diverse exhibition of world cuisine.
International Cultural Evening The International Cultural Evening attracts audiences of over 1,000, including distinguished members of the local community such as the Lord Mayor of Sheffield. Our students from around the world put on music and dance performances with a unique international flavour. The University’s national societies also celebrate their own different cultures.
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University accommodation Our student accommodation was rated the best in the UK at the ULiving CUBO Awards 2012. Living in University accommodation, you will be involved in every aspect of University life, making friends with students from the UK and other countries across the world – this is an experience you won’t find elsewhere. There are three accommodation locations to choose from: The Ranmoor Village, The Endcliffe Village and City and Central Campus. Wherever you choose to live, you will be part of a supportive community where there is always something happening.
The best student accommodation in the UK (ULiving CUBO Awards 2012) 30
A great all inclusive deal Included as part of your rent is: • All of your gas, water, electricity and internet bills •
24 hour maintenance and security team
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24 hour customer reception service
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Room contents insurance – you can find out more about your room contents insurance by visiting our website www.sheffield.ac.uk/ accommodation/current/ livinghere/insurance
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Welfare Support
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Residence Life Programme
Flexible contracts Our standard contract length is for 42-weeks. This means you can go home for the summer vacation without having to pay for your student accommodation over these weeks. However, if you would prefer to stay over the summer period, 51-week contracts are available for postgraduate students. Just ask the Accommodation Office for further details.
Living in University accommodation
Your rent includes gas, electric and water bills, internet and room contents insurance.
When you choose to live in University accommodation you become part of a community where you will make friends for life. There are a huge range of events, activities, trips, sports, international food evenings and volunteering opportunities on offer through our Residence Life Programme. There really is something for everyone to get involved in and enjoy. We also host a number of Living-Learning evenings where you can attend guest lectures and workshops on essay writing, healthy cooking and many other topics.
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Welfare Support When living in University accommodation you will receive welfare support from your Residential Mentor who will always be around to offer help and advice when you need it. Our Mentors are students who live in University accommodation and they are there to help you settle in, support you if you are feeling homesick and help you with any accommodation, academic or personal issues you may have. They are there to help you from the moment you arrive and because many of them are existing international students, they understand what it is like to move to a new country.
Facilities for families There are a number of apartments and houses suitable for couples and families. All properties are close to the University, shops and local schools. Each property is fully furnished, has central heating and a washing machine or access to a launderette.
Facilities for disabled students We are committed to providing equal opportunities by giving the best possible support to disabled students. Once you have decided to study at Sheffield and are planning to live in University accommodation, please inform the Accommodation Office if you require any specific facilities.
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Catered or self-catered? Catered There are rooms available in The Endcliffe Village which are part of a catered package. If you choose to live in catered accommodation you will receive a GeniUS card which we will add money to each week. We credit your GeniUS card with enough money for about two meals per day during term time. Your GeniUS card can be used at any of the cafes and dining rooms which advertise that they are ‘Designed and Operated by US’ at The Ranmoor Village, The Endcliffe Village, the central University campus and The Village Store. Simply bring your GeniUS card to any of these outlets to pay for your meal. If you don’t spend all of your allowance in one week, it will stay on the card until the end of the academic year. In catered accommodation, facilities including a kettle, toaster and microwave are provided for preparing snacks in communal areas, but there is limited space. If you have any specific dietary requirements, speak to a member of the catering team who will be able to help you.
Gen
iUS
Self-catered Most University accommodation is self-catered, with access to a communal kitchen where you are able to cook your own food when you want. However, there are a number of cafes and food outlets at both The Ranmoor Village and The Endcliffe Village as well as on the central University campus and at The Village Store. Many of our outlets have gluten-free, vegan, Halal and vegetarian meal options available. The Village Store, Plaza Cafe, The Edge Cafe, Arts Tower Cafe, The View and Uni Central all offer a variety of speciality foods.
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The Ranmoor Village Ranmoor is only a short walk from The Endcliffe Village, so you will be close neighbours to the students living there. Ranmoor is always popular with international students due to its strong sense of community. You’ll be with over 1,000 students in en-suite self-catering apartments. There are some studios suitable for couples and larger apartments for families. The Ridge is the centre of student social life in The Ranmoor Village, where there is always something to do. There is a cafebar where you can meet your friends and attend regular social events and activities such as film nights. It’s only a short bus ride or a 20 minute walk to the University. Buses are popular for students living in Ranmoor when travelling into the city centre, there are special prices for student bus tickets too. Ranmoor is also close to the lively student areas of Broomhill and Ecclesall Road, see pages 8-9.
Both our Student Villages have 24 hour customer service on reception and 24 hour security.
The Ranmoor Village Self-catering accommodation: • 1,095 en-suite rooms • 72 studios • 42-week contracts • 51-week contracts
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If this is your first year in Sheffield, my advice would be to stay in University accommodation. It saves you the hassle of monthly bills, which you’re probably not used to, and it’s a secure environment where you can make new friends…and study as well! My studio flat has all the facilities I need including a shower and washer/dryer. For entertainment I enjoy the movie nights at The Ridge. It’s also a really cool place to hang out with friends. THE RANMOOR VILLAGE DAMILOLA KALEJAIYE NIGERIA
The Endcliffe Village The Endcliffe Village is home to a mix of approximately 3,500 UK and international students living together in modern apartment blocks, flats and houses. You have the option of a catered or selfcatering package and a range of room types including: en-suite, deluxe or a room with a shared bathroom. We even have our own grocery store located in the centre of the complex. At the centre of The Endcliffe Village is The Edge, where a variety of events take place every night of the week. At The Edge you will find a cafe, dining room and bar. You will be part of a community where there is always something to do. The Edge is a great place to meet people, make new friends or simply relax after a day of lectures. The Endcliffe Village is only a short bus ride to the main campus and the city centre, although most students prefer to walk. You will also be very close to the popular student areas of Broomhill and Hunter’s Bar, see pages 8-9.
The Endcliffe Village Catered and self-catering • 2,898 self-catered rooms • 482 catered rooms • 2,484 en-suite rooms • 82 deluxe rooms • 814 rooms with shared bathrooms • 42-week contracts • 51-week contracts
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City and Central Campus Close to many departments such as Engineering, Computer Science and Economics, the City and Central Campus accommodation is very popular with a wide range of students. All city accommodation is self-catering and is located in the area between the city centre and University campus, so you can walk to either in only a few minutes. You will also have all the city’s shops, cafes and restaurants close by, and popular student areas at the centre of the city are just a short walk away. 36
West Street, Division Street and the city centre, right on your doorstop.
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The best thing about Opal 2 is its great location. It is very near to the city centre and University facilities such as the Information Commons, which is open 24/7, and the Students’ Union. It only takes 5 minutes to walk to my department (Jessop West, School of English). There’s a tram stop right behind where I live and it makes trips to Meadowhall, Sheffield’s biggest shopping centre, or the train station very convenient. Sheffield is the safest major city in the UK so I do feel safe living here. At Opal 2 we also have staff at the reception desk 24/7, so you can get help at any time of day. CITY AND CENTRAL CAMPUS SUK MAY LOW MALAYSIA
City and Central Campus Self-catering accommodation: • 893 en-suite rooms • 133 deluxe rooms • 260 rooms with shared bathrooms • 42-week contracts • 51-week contracts
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Your new home All rooms in our accommodation are fully furnished and are fitted with a bed, wardrobe, desk and chair. Depending on which building you live in, the rooms will differ slightly. Central heating is activated by a thermostat which responds to the outside temperature and is set to come on when it’s cold during the day. Free standing heaters are not permitted in University accommodation. To make things a little easier when travelling from overseas, you are able to buy bedding, towels and kitchen essentials online from the University and we will either deliver this to your room or it will be available for collection nearby, as soon as you arrive. We will let you know how to order these items after you have applied for your accommodation as part of your e-induction.
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Laundry There are plenty of self-service launderettes onsite with washing and drying facilities. You will be given a laundry card when you arrive to use as a payment card – you can add money to this online.
Your arrival Intro Week (20 and 21 September) is when most of our students move into student accommodation. Intro Week gives all our students the opportunity to settle into their new home before the start of their course. Before you arrive for Intro Week you will be provided with information on when and where you can collect your keys.
Types of room Room with a shared bathroom Your room comes with a single bed, wash basin, wardrobe, desk and chair. You have access to shared bathroom facilities and toilet. There’s also a kitchen or kitchenette with a fridge, kettle and microwave.
En-suite En-suite rooms come with their own shower room and toilet so you have more privacy. You share a kitchen or kitchenette and/or a living area with your flatmates.
Deluxe Deluxe rooms have their own shower room and toilet, extra space and a larger bed. You share a kitchen and living area with your flatmates.
Studio Studios are self-contained. They have their own kitchen facilities, living area, double bed, two desks, wardrobes and an en-suite shower room and toilet. Ideal if you’re a student couple, or if you just want more space to yourself.
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Rents You choose the location, room type and catering option that suits you best. We’ll let you know which building you’ll be living in once we’ve allocated you a room. A full table of room types and rents are available here: www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation Below are example starting prices for a 42-week, self-catered contract in our accommodation. These are a guide only; more detailed prices for the 2014/15 academic year are listed on our website.
The Ranmoor Village From £5106.78 with en-suite
The Encliffe Village From £4101.30 with a shared bathroom, From £5106.78 with en-suite
City and Central Campus From £4248.30 with a shared bathroom, From £4848.06 with en-suite
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Terms and conditions and how to apply Step 1 Visit our web pages to decide on the type of room and location you are interested in: www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation/prospective
Step 2 If you are holding an offer to study here and have accepted your place, you can apply for accommodation online now at: www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation/prospective/apply
Step 3 Once we receive your application, we’ll send you an acknowledgement email. If you’re an insurance offer holder, postgraduate or visiting student, we’ll email you a confirmation form as part of your acknowledgement – keep this safe as you’ll need it later on.
Step 4 When you meet the conditions of your offer we will automatically process your application for accommodation. Postgraduate, insurance and visiting students need to return the confirmation form by email before we can process your application. View the terms of our guarantee, along with deadlines for applying at: www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation/prospective/apply/guarantee
Step 5 Once we have allocated you accommodation, we will email you with details of the property you will be living in and how to view your contract online.
Step 6 When you accept your contract, we ask you to pay a £150 deposit which is held until the end of your contract. Your rent is paid in three instalments. If you are on a 42 week contract, the first instalment will be taken on 1 October 2014, the second on 21 January 2015 and the third on 15 April 2015. If you don’t accept your contract by the date stated in your email, we will reallocate the room to someone else, so remember to make a note of the date! Codes of practice All University-owned single-student accommodation complies with the Universities UK Code of Practice for the Management of Student Housing. That means we have very clear policies and procedures relating to health and safety, maintenance, student welfare and other issues. Opal 2 is a managed partnership property and is subject to the ANUK code for large private landlords.
More For more information, pictures and answers to your questions, see our website: www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation/ prospective If you’d rather talk to someone, give us a call: +44(0) 114 222 4488, or email: accommodationoffice@sheffield.ac.uk
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Private accommodation In addition to University accommodation, Sheffield has a good supply of privately rented properties available. If you want to rent privately, the University service propertywithUS offers advice and information about private student housing in Sheffield. There is a large range of flats, houses and studios available. Whether you are on your own, with a group of friends or with your family, you can always find accommodation to suit your needs. For more information see: www.sheffield.ac.uk/propertywithus Unlike University accommodation your gas, electricity, internet and insurance bills may not be included in your rent so you may have to arrange this yourself. Most private landlords also require a deposit and one months rent to be paid in advance before taking up residency.
propertywithUS is the University-run service to help you find private housing in Sheffield.
In addition to propertywithUS, there are many private landlords in the city who can provide you with accommodation. The University does not check private landlords used outside of the propertywithUS service, so no guarantee of the landlord’s credibility can be given. If you choose to find your own accommodation in the private sector without using propertywithUS, you can go to the Student Advice Centre in the Students’ Union and speak to a housing adviser. Popular places for students to rent private accommodation are Broomhill, Crookes, Walkley, Hunter’s Bar and in the city centre.
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“
I live with one of my friends, who is also a student from Jordan – we met in Opal 2 in our first year. I’m right in the city centre, just off West Street, which is one of the main streets that we use. It has restaurants, supermarkets, bars, stationery shops, pubs and much more necessary places. There are plenty of restaurants in the complex where we live plus a new Chinese market that has the best fresh fruits. I walk almost everywhere – it takes me five minutes to get to the Information Commons and the Students’ Union. My furthest lecture is only a 15 minute walk away. PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION (CITY CENTRE) GHAZAL ETOUM JORDAN
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I live in Crookes which is close to the University, has good bus lines and different local shops and supermarkets. Other University students rent most of the houses in the area, and the local people who live here are very nice and friendly. My studies require that sometimes I stay late at the library and I feel completely safe walking back to my house. We have two very nice parks 10 minutes’ walk from our house. My daughter’s nursery is just 10 minutes’ walk and the school she starts next September is only 100 steps away. Out of the city centre, most houses offer good space and have a small garden, which can give your children a nice place to play. PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION (CROOKES) SARAH FAYYAD JORDAN 43
Life in Sheffield Weather The British weather can be unpredictable. Summers can be hot and winters very cold with occasional snowfall. You can also expect frequent and sometimes heavy rain so be prepared for these changes in climate. You will need cool clothing for the hot days and waterproof, warm layers for the cold days. You will need suitable footwear too for the wet and icy roads in winter.
Clothing The average British student tends to dress casually at home, when out socialising and while at the University. There will be times when smarter clothing is needed, so bring a choice. Traditional dress and clothing for religious or cultural reasons are of course welcome here.
Smoking Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, places of work and University accommodation. It is usual to ask “Do you mind if I smoke?� if you are socialising with other people, but do not be offended if you are asked not to.
Botanical Gardens 44
Devonshire Green
Language and communication
Television
Each region of the UK has its own accent and dialect and Sheffield is no exception. This may be quite different from the English you have learnt in your own country. Don’t be afraid to ask people to repeat or speak more slowly and don’t be offended if British people ask the same of you.
Televisions are not provided in University accommodation. If you use a television in the UK, regardless of whether you brought it with you or purchased it in this country, you will be required by law to purchase a television licence to be able to watch it.
Sheffield people are proud of their friendly nature and visitors may find this most noticeable in the affectionate terms such as “Love”, “Duck” or “Darling” used in everyday conversation.
The same law applies if you watch television programmes on your computer. More information can be found at: www.tvlicensing.co.uk/studentinfo
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Religion The UK is a multicultural society; people from ethnic minorities live in most areas and are a well-accepted and wellintegrated part of the population. Exploring life in Sheffield does not mean having to give up your own culture or religion. Sheffield has a large ethnic population and there are many people practicing various faiths. The number of people from different cultures has grown alongside the facilities that allow them to lead a life according to their religious beliefs. Places of worship in Sheffield include local churches and chapels, mosques, Hindu and Buddhist temples and a synagogue. You can get in touch with people from all faith groups through our Multi-Faith Chaplaincy Service: www.sheffield.ac.uk/ssid/chaplaincy
Chinese New Year at the City Hall 46
What happens next? This is one of four Essential Guides we send to you before you start your course at Sheffield:
Living In You Before g InLeave SheffieHome ffieldrYou Living Leave Essential Guides 2014.
Living In Sheffield.
All you need to know about our city and accommodation.
Essential Guides 2014.
Before You Leave Home.
All you need to know including immigration, health and money.
Make sure the email address that you provide is one you check regularly, so we have a way of contacting you.
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stration versity Life Registrati University tion Regis Life Unive Essential Guides 2014.
Essential Guides 2014.
Living Registration. All you need to know to register In Sheffield. in September and October.
University Living In Sheffield. Life.
All you need to know about our city and accommodation.
All you need to know about our city and getting arriving accommodation. started.
Each guide gives you specific information you need to know before you start your studies. The Essential Guide to Registration and the Essential Guide to University Life will be sent from July, when you have accepted and met any outstanding conditions of your offer.
Get connected www.sheffield.ac.uk/contact/social-media
Useful websites www.sheffield.ac.uk/international www.sheffield.ac.uk/accommodation www.sheffield.ac.uk/union 47
Livin ng In effield This publication is available in different formats. To request an alternative format telephone +44 (0)114 222 1303
Copyright Š The University of Sheffield 2014 0331Mktg All paper used in this publication is from renewable and sustainable forests. Information correct at time of print.