CONTENTS
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Your to do list
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Your first week
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Get to know us
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Student support
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More than a degree
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Students’ Union
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Entertainment
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Building skills for your future career
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Fantastic facilities
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Your library
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Fees and finance
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Accommodation
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Campus maps
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What to do before you arrive: Apply for your student loan, if applicable, at: www.gov.uk/student-finance Make sure you’ve arranged and paid for your accommodation, if applicable Complete Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and health check (healthcare and teaching students only) Send details of your second referee (healthcare students only) Visit your welcome portal at: welcome.beds.ac.uk If you require additional support visit: beds.ac.uk/disability Find your reading lists at: readinglists.beds.ac.uk Download the MyBedsLife app from the Apple app store or Google Play Store Prepare the following documents for registration: • Offer letter • Passport/Visa • Qualifications/certificates • Online registration document from e:Vision • Student loan/finance documents/method to pay remaining fees • DBS and health check (healthcare and teaching students only) Please note: Registration will be fully remote/online with the exception of professional courses. Please look out for an email from joining@beds.ac.uk with further instructions Arriving on campus: Visit our halls of residence and pick up your accommodation keys, if applicable Attend your registration session (Professional courses only) Access BREO - log in at: pwd.beds.ac.uk to change your password. Once you’ve done this you will be able to access BREO anytime at: breo.beds.ac.uk/webapps/login Find details of your course induction at: welcome.beds.ac.uk Attend Welcome events and activities during your first few weeks. For more information visit: welcome.beds.ac.uk If you require any letters or support visit the Student Information Desk (SiD) Once you have registered, sign in to the MyBedsLife app to access your personalised student dashboard Check out what your membership to Beds SU (your Students’ Union) has to offer at: www.bedssu.co.uk
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YOUR FIRST WEEK Welcome to the University of Bedfordshire. We want to make sure your transition into life at Bedfordshire is as easy as possible, and we understand that your first few weeks may seem a little daunting and scary, but it will also be fun and life-changing. We’ll have events and activities running during your first few weeks with us to help you settle in, get to know the University, and meet your fellow students. When you arrive on campus during your first week there will be support staff on hand to help you find your way around campus. Our events and activities will assist you with integration into life at Bedfordshire and support you with making new friends. We aim to have a combination of socially distanced face-to-face and online activities to help you settle in and get to know your fellow students and your lecturers. You are actively encouraged to take part in events and activities to give you the best possible start to your university journey and life at Bedfordshire. For a list of events, activities and presentations visit: welcome.beds.ac.uk
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GET TO KNOW US Your first few weeks at university may seem a little daunting, with lots of new people to meet, and things to learn. Here’s some words of wisdom from some of our current students. Michael Alawaye, Beds SU President What are your words of wisdom for new, first-year students? Ensure you participate in various activities during your studies because university is more than a degree, and these activities will help you to grow. What is your favourite thing about the university? The diversity of the university is one of the best things here I think. I’ve been able to get to know people from all over the world and learn about their cultures, which I think has played a big role in my development and career. Dominika Kalinowska, Psychology BSc (Hons) What is your favourite memory from your first year at university? Definitely the amount of people I met from around the world. I come from a small town in Poland so wasn’t used to this - but at Bedfordshire I have met people from everywhere and learnt about their cultures, food, traditions and language. What is your favourite thing about the university? There’s so much to get involved in: volunteering, workshops, talks and lectures. It’s also given me a lot of independence and freedom. Jeremiah Morgan, English Language and TEFL BA (Hons) What is your favourite thing about the university? The lecturers. Though not all topics have been easy, the level of dedication that the lecturers provide is second-to-none. I would directly equate my high university performance to the teachings and assistance of all my lecturers. What are your words of wisdom for new, first-year students? Relax. There is plenty of time to grow and develop as an undergraduate. There’s also a lot of help and support available around the university.
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STUDENT SUPPORT Throughout your degree you’ll have access to our Student Support team, offering you practical and confidential advice and support. Student Information Desk (SiD) Located on every campus, our Student Information Desks act as your gateway to all student services at Bedfordshire. You can also access SiD online 24/7 to update and log enquiries, or search our FAQ’s. Student Engagement and Mitigation (SEAM) Our advisers can provide confidential and impartial advice on academic, personal and health issues, and can support you if you have any extenuating circumstances throughout your studies. Disability support Our disability support team can assist you if you are affected by a disability, a long-term medical condition, or a specific learning disability. Counselling service We provide professional, confidential counselling for students experiencing problems of a personal or emotional nature that may be interfering with their academic work and life. Mental Health We offer personal support to students experiencing mental health difficulties, as well as support for students returning to study after a period of illness.
Student money advice Our money advice team are available to provide you with general advice on budgeting, and direct you to alternative sources of funding that may be available. Community and faith All students are welcome to join our exciting programme of activities or access our confidential, personal and spiritual support - whether you are a person of faith or not. University Police Liaison The University’s Police Liaison Officer provides crime prevention and safety advice, as well as promoting volunteering and employment opportunities within the police force. International support We have a dedicated International Office based at our Luton campus, which offers support to all of our international students, across all of our campuses. Registering with a doctor’s surgery You will need to register with a local doctor when you join us; we recommend you do this during your induction week. For more information about any of our support services visit: www.beds.ac.uk/studentsupport
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GET MORE THAN A DEGREE It’s a competitive world out there; that’s why we offer a wide range of events and activities to enable you to develop key skills and experiences that will help you to stand out from the crowd and differentiate you from other graduates. Meet like-minded people Clubs and societies are a great way to meet like-minded people, and get involved in a range of fun and exciting activities - and maybe even try something new! At the University of Bedfordshire we have a wide range of faith, academic, cultural and recreational societies for you to get involved in. And if sport is more your thing we have over 40 sports teams competing in the British University and Colleges Sports (BUCS) leagues. Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) PAL sessions are weekly sessions for first-year students, run by second- and third-years. Being a PAL leader enables you to develop many transferable skills including communication, presentation and organisation to name just a few! Become a Course Representative As a Course of Faculty Representative you’ll act as the voice for your fellow students, and help to raise and solve any issues on behalf of your classmates.
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As a Student Representative you’ll receive full training from the Students’ Union. Connections to industry We work with lots of national and international organisations to enable you to take part in masterclasses and industry talks, external competitions and live briefs, developing your industry knowledge and experience, and building your industry network. Enhance your employability We offer a range of employability units which you can study alongside your degree to further enhance your career prospects, and develop transferable skills which you can use in the workplace. Build your confidence with our public speaking unit, or discover the skills needed to become a freelancer. You could also learn a new language, or gain the skills needed to become an entrepreneur, and much more. Gain industry experience Many of our courses provide you with the opportunity to gain industry experience alongside your studies. Law students are able to volunteer with the Law Clinic and Refugee Legal Assistance Project, whilst students within the School of Art and Design can gain experience at Guildford Street Press, to name just a few.
Volunteer your time At the University of Bedfordshire we’re committed to contributing to the development of civic and public life through involving students and staff in volunteering programmes. We offer a range of ways for students to get involved in volunteering, from one-off events to regular and long-term commitments. Take over the airwaves Radio LaB is the University’s very own community radio station, broadcasting throughout Luton and Bedfordshire. You can get involved in presenting and producing your own shows on a subject that interests you. Listen online at: radiolab.beds.ac.uk Get Active If you’re interested in sport, but don’t want to compete, our Get Active programme is for you. For just a small fee you can access a wide range of weekly sessions across our Luton and Bedford campuses including Archery, Boxercise, Tennis, Yoga and Zumba. There’s also one-off taster sessions throughout the year where you can try activities like horse riding and skiing. Our Luton and Bedford campuses also benefit from our Aspire gyms, which offer a range of affordable and flexible membership options. Both gyms feature a selection of cardiovascular equipment and free weights, and Bedford also benefits from a strength and conditioning room. For more information, and to find out what else is available at the University of Bedfordshire, visit: www.beds.ac.uk/morethanadegree
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STUDENTS’ UNION Beds SU is here to help every student at the University of Bedfordshire get the most out of their university experience. All Bedfordshire students are automatic members of Beds SU, which offers a great range of services and supports. From representation and advice, to social spaces and societies, Beds SU aims to empower every student to achieve their full potential, as well as provide a great student experience along the way.
Students can get involved in a whole range of events and activities whilst at university, from joining one of the unions many societies, to getting involved in volunteering opportunities. Beds SU has a huge range of faith, academic, cultural and recreational societies aimed at helping you meet like-minded people and life-long friends, whilst enjoying extra-curricular activities. Volunteering is a great way to build valuable skills whilst giving something back to the community. There are plenty of ways you can get involved in volunteering at the SU, from representing your university community to hosting fundraising events.
The Metro Bar and Kitchen in Luton and The Hub in Bedford offer a range of food and drink, alongside a diverse events programme including movie/cinema club, quizzes, club nights, karaoke and a range of society nights throughout the year. There is a wide range of food and drinks on offer throughout the day and into the evening, making it the perfect space to meet up with friends in between lectures and at the end of the day.
Find out more about Beds SU activities and opportunities at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beinvolved
Find out more about our venues and events at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beentertained
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Beds SU is run by its members (the students of the University of Bedfordshire), who are at the heart of what Beds SU do. The Union ensures that student views and feedback are represented at all levels, whether that is through the academic representative system, speaking to the Executive Officers either by contacting them directly or posing questions at Union Parliament sessions, to offering students the opportunity to elect their representatives via the annual student elections. Beds SU is here to support and listen to all students.
Beds SU provides all students with access to impartial advice and support on all aspects of university life including finance, housing issues, representation, safety and welfare. Student life can be challenging at times and that’s why Beds SU has a friendly, dedicated team at hand to offer individual support when it’s needed.
Find out more about how Beds SU represents its students at: www.bedssu.co.uk/beheard
Find out more about the advice and support Beds SU offers at: www.bedssu.co.uk/besupported
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ENTERTAINMENT With the help of our Students’ Union (Beds SU) we have lots of exciting things going on in and around our campuses to make your experience at Bedfordshire a great one. Beds SU wants you to have the best time whilst at University, and offers a range of events and activities, to suit a wide range of interests to help you to do so. From themed nights in one of our venues, and nights out in the local town, to activities hosted by one of our many clubs and societies, there really is something for everyone. Beds SU venues Beds SU is the proud owner of two multi-functional venues in Luton and Bedford. These venues will play host to a variety of events throughout the year, as well as offering a comfortable, relaxed space to simply take a break and socialise with friends.
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The Metro Bar and Kitchen, Luton campus By day the Metro Bar and Kitchen proudly serves Starbucks coffee along with a range of other beverages, sandwiches, paninis and snacks. It’s a great space for socialising with friends, catching up on some course work or taking a well deserved lunch break with a game of table tennis. By night the venue becomes the place to be with events such as karaoke, quizzes and various themed club nights. Try our delicious range of food, from great ‘Grab and Go’ options to freshly made pizzas served throughout the day. The Hub, Bedford campus During the day The Hub is the place to go to take a break, play a little pool and socialise with your friends. In the evening the venue opens its doors to host a range of events including club nights, quizzes and comedy nights. Freshly made pizzas are also available every evening during the week.
Out on the town Beds SU has got together with a number of local venues and facilities to offer you the best deals on a range of activities and events from trampoline parks and bowling alleys, to club nights in the best venues in the area. Welcome Week During Welcome Week Beds SU aims to help you settle in to university life, by making you aware of what Beds SU, the university, and the local area has to offer. For full details on the activities and events taking place during your first few weeks at the university visit: www.bedssu.co.uk/freshers Societies On top of all the activities and events offered directly by Beds SU, we also have a diverse range of student-led societies that organise a whole host of activities and events. Why not get involved by joining a society, or even setting up one of your own.
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BUILDING SKILLS FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER We provide you with the support you need, alongside a range of opportunities to help you stand out from the crowd, and ensure that you are ready to enter the world of work when you graduate. Our award-winning Careers and Employability Service The University’s Careers and Employability Service will unlock your potential and enable you to manage your future career by providing you with professional, high-quality information, advice and guidance including: • Specialist employability advisers • Access to a wealth of careers information and resources online • Help with securing professional practice years, internships, part-time jobs and volunteering opportunities • Employment-related events, competitions and careers fairs • Coaching on CV writing, interview skills and assessment centres
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Placements for all* Most of our courses offer you the opportunity to undertake a professional practice year in an organisation of your choice. This is an exciting opportunity that helps you apply your learning to the workplace and puts you on the first step to your future career. We also offer courses at our Milton Keynes campus, which offer a 12-week industry placement sourced by University. *T&Cs apply. Open to UK and EU students only. Excludes Nursing, Education and Social Work courses. Global network Our links with numerous organisations around the world provide you with unique opportunities to gain valuable experience and create your own global network of industry contacts. International businesses such as Nestle and Volkswagen have given our students real-world company briefs to work on as part of their studies.
Just a few of the other organisations we have connections with include: BBC, Bugatti Automobiles, Hilton London, London Media Group, Luton Town Football Club, Machins, Paris House Restaurant, Premier Inn, Sage, Saracens, Save the Children, Sports Therapy UK and TUI Travel PLC. Professional accreditations Many of our courses are accredited by professional bodies which gives you a career advantage from day one. Just a few of the professional bodies that accredit our degrees are: Association of Certified Chartered Accountants, British Computer Society, British Council, British Psychological Society, Chartered Institute of Marketing, Chartered Management Institute, General Social Care Council, Institute of Biomedical Science, Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC), National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP), National Youth Agency, Association for Nutrition, Register of Exercise Professionals and The Broadcast Journalism Training Council. Many professional bodies offer free or reduced memberships for students so you can begin to build your network and keep up-to-date with industryspecific news. Employability units We offer you the opportunity to take twelve credit-bearing units based around the theme of employability that will enhance your career prospects, develop transferable skills, and earn you extra credits in the process. Lasting between five and six weeks, the units aim to increase your knowledge and understanding of key skills that employers are searching for, helping you to stand apart from other graduates. For more information visit: www.beds.ac.uk/careers
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FANTASTIC FACILITIES At the University of Bedfordshire we’re continuously investing and developing social and learning spaces to ensure that we’re providing the best facilities to support you throughout your studies. Luton campus • Our purpose-built, seven-storey library opened in 2016 • Specialist Art and Design building, Alexon House • Campus Centre, housing all student services under one roof • En-suite accommodation, Fitzroy and Wenlock Court offering 852 fully-furnished study bedrooms and studios • Multi-purpose Business Pods and Law Moot Court in our Business School
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• Nursing simulation suites, contemporary skills labs and medical training mannequins • Our on-campus gym, Aspire, offering a range of flexible membership options In 2019 our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) building opened at our Luton campus featuring: • Modern engineering labs and three specialist research labs • A modern imaging suite which houses confocal and fluorescence microscopes • Dedicated space for histopathology and mammalian cell culture • Robotic equipment including humanoid robots, robotic arms and wheeled robotic platforms
Bedford campus • Purpose-built, three-storey building, Gateway, featuring everything a student could need under one roof • Our Campus Centre is home to a 280-seat theatre, as well as a smaller 80-seat theatre • A Physical Education and Sports Science Centre, used to train athletes in the 2012 Olympics • En-suite accommodation at Polhill Park, offering 517 fully-furnished study bedrooms and studios • Nursing simulation suites, contemporary skills labs and medical training mannequins • Our on-campus gym, Aspire, offering a range of flexible membership options Aylesbury Our Aylesbury campus is equipped for our nursing and midwifery students. Based at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, our students learn in a modern and vibrant environment suited for today’s vocational approach to teaching. Milton Keynes Our Milton Keynes campus houses an array of modern teaching facilities including high-specification teaching rooms with top-quality audio-visual and IT equipment, a special purpose electronics and telecommunications laboratory and a large, general purpose computer lab, giving IT students hands-on experience. For more information about the facilities available at any of our campuses visit: www.beds.ac.uk/about-us/campuses/
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YOUR LIBRARY
Our students have fantastic multi-media study resources at their fingertips in our cutting-edge, well-equipped libraries. Our library resources Our extensive, sector-leading, digital library is available from most devices with internet access. Explore the full range of print and online books, journals, articles, databases, exam papers and dissertations with DISCOVER - the online single search tool that searches most electronic resources and the library catalogue in one go. It saves time by showing what’s available to read online, what’s on the shelves, and how to reserve items from another campus. To help with study needs we offer induction loops, height-adjustable tables, flat-screen monitors, keyboards for visually impaired users and Keyboard Pro software for developing typing skills.
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In 2016 a purpose-built, seven-storey library opened at our Luton campus. The library features dedicated silent areas, breakout spaces and pods to facilitate group work, a cafe, and state-of-the-art IT and AV equipment. The library is not just a repository of books and study resources; it’s also an important partner in research and in teaching, working towards equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to achieve academically, and to maximise your future employability. That’s why our library service is open when you need it, to support your learning and academic life whilst at Bedfordshire. For more information visit: www.beds.ac.uk/library
Study Hub The Study Hub, based within our library facilities, consists of three teams of specialists who offer a wide range of support and learning activities which will help you to develop your academic skills and improve your assignment writing techniques; leading to better grades and enhanced employability. These sessions are available throughout the year and are completely free and open to all of our students.
Computer Skills Trainers (CST) The CST team can help you with using Microsoft Office, Word, Excel or PowerPoint in your studies. They provide help guides, training workshops, help guides and individual or group support depending on your needs. Professional and Academic Development (PAD) The PAD team are here to help you enhance your writing, maths and study skills. They provide regular drop-in sessions across our campuses so you can easily access the team when you are working on an assignment or following up your assessment feedback.
Academic Liaison Librarians (ALLs) ALLs work with each faculty within the University to ensure that the resources you need for your course are available and easily accessible to you. They can show you, both individually and within small groups, how to search for the resources you need to help For more information about upcoming workshops, you with your research and/or assignments as well drop-in sessions and 1-to-1 appointments visit: as provide advice on topics such as plagiarism. www.beds.ac.uk/library
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FEES AND FINANCE Here at the University of Bedfordshire we try to make financing your studies as simple and affordable as possible.
Tuition fee loan If you are a UK or EU student you can apply for a tuition fee loan through Student Finance England.
That’s why we offer a number or scholarships and bursaries to support you throughout your time with us. There’s also a range of student finance and loans available.
Part-time students who are studying a first degree are also able to apply for a tuition fee loan, providing they complete a minimum of 25 per cent of the full-time course content each year.
Course tuition fees The 2020 fee for full-time undergraduate courses is £9,250 per year (UK/EU students). For the most upto-date information please visit our website.
Student maintenance loan UK (and some EU) students can apply for the Student Maintenance Loan online.
Additional course costs When considering university it’s important to be aware of all of the costs; from tuition fees, to accommodation, to living costs. However, it’s also important to remember the other costs you may incur during your studies such as books, study resources and equipment. To find out more about course costs please see our course information online.
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The amount of maintenance loan you receive will depend partly upon your household income. All UK students on a full-time undergraduate course will be eligible for 47 per cent of the maintenance loan that is not income-assessed. The remaining 53 per cent is income assessed. The maintenance loan is also available to new, parttime students. The amount of loan available will depend on the intensity of your studies.
Scholarships and bursaries Here at the University of Bedfordshire we offer a wide range of scholarships and bursaries to support your studies - that’s money that you don’t pay back. • Bursary - worth £1,500 over three years • Merit Scholarship - worth £2,000 over three Please note: The application is different for students years • Foundation Year Bursary - worth £2,000 over on teacher training, social work and healthcare four years courses. • Care Leavers’ Bursary - worth £3,000 in year one, and £1,350 in years two and three Repaying your loans • Sports Scholarships - worth up to £1,000 You do not have to start repaying your loan until • Disabled Students’ Allowance - dependent on you have graduated, meaning you will not have to pay back a penny whilst you are studying. You start individual needs • Access to Learning Fund - if you experience repayments the tax year after you have graduated, any unexpected financial difficulty whilst at and only if you are earning more than £25,000 per year. These repayments are deducted automatically university you may be able to receive financial aid from your salary, so you will not need to worry about • Accommodation Bursary - up to £1,500 available (T&C’s apply, limited availability) sorting it out for yourself. Your repayments will be nine per cent of anything you earn over £25,000 For full eligibility criteria and details on how to this is not the same as nine per cent of your total apply visit: unibeds.info/WG_Finance income. Applying for Student Finance It is best to apply for student finance as soon as you have selected your first choice university with UCAS. That way you should receive your financial support at the start of term.
If you decide to undertake a postgraduate degree, travel, do voluntary work, or start a job which pays less than £25,000 per year payments will be suspended. All outstanding repayments will be written off after 30 years. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/student-finance
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ACCOMMODATION Enjoy a safe, secure and friendly home away from home in our fabulous range of University accommodation.
Bedford accommodation Students at the Bedford campus have the option of living at Polhill Park, or our more budget conscious Student Village, both of which are located on campus, within easy reach of the town centre and station.
With London on Luton and Bedford’s doorstep, you can benefit from its cosmopolitan social scene but with considerably lower living costs. What’s more, we guarentee accommodation to all new students in Polhill Park offers 517 en-suite study bedrooms grouped in flats with fantastic communal areas, Luton and Bedford. including a gym and on-site laundry facilities. The Student Village has en-suite rooms with private Luton accommodation shower rooms and fully equipped shared kitchens. Opened in 2011 and 2012 respectively, Fitzroy and Wenlock Court provide 852 en-suite study bedrooms. These fully furnished flats include a bed, Added benefits • Safety first - we have staff on-site 24 hours, and desk, wardrobe, and en-suite shower pod. Each electronic fob and swipe card entry systems flat has a spacious kitchen/lounge area to relax • All inclusive value - your rent in Luton and in with your flat mates. For those wanting a little more space and privacy, our studio flats are a great Bedford includes all utility bills and contents insurance option, offering a double bed and private en-suite • Stay connected - free Wi-Fi is included in our shower room and kitchenette. accommodation • Instant friends - halls are a great way to meet Fitzroy and Wenlock Court also have fantastic new people communal lounges, a games room, media room, group study room, a fully equipped gym, and laundry • Village Life Programme - meet new friends from week one with events such as BBQs and facilities on-site. Our well-equipped halls of movie nights residence are ideally located for student life on-campus, and are just a short walk from Luton town centre.
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Milton Keynes accommodation If you’re studying at our Milton Keynes campus we recommend that you stay with us at our Bedford campus accommodation for the best student experience. Letting agents in Milton Keynes also offer private rented accommodation options. For information and advice about landlords recommended by the University visit: www.studentpadbeds.co.uk Secure accommodation for healthcare students Healthcare students have access to safe and secure accommodation at our various hospital sites. For more information please visit our website.
Get in touch... For more information about Fitzroy and Wenlock Court at our Luton campus visit: W: www.campuslivingvillages.co.uk/luton T: +44 (0)1582 405000 E: bedfordshire@clvuk.com For more information about Polhill Park at our Bedford campus visit: W: www.unitestudents.com/Bedford/ Polhill-Park T: +44 (0)1234 359332 For more information about the Student Village at our Bedford campus visit: W: www.campuslivingvillages.co.uk/bedford T: +44 (0)1234 793462 E: bedfordshire@clvuk.com
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CAMPUS MAPS: LUTON
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CAMPUS MAPS: BEDFORD
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MILTON KEYNES
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AYLESBURY
For more information about any of our campus, including campus directions, visit: www.beds.ac.uk/directions
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