Get Ready Guide 2016 by University of Brighton

The University of Brighton is a talented and inclusive community and we know you’re going to have a brilliant time here. There's a lot to think about before starting university – so make sure you read this guide to get your student life off to the best possible start.

Everything is easier than it seems and you are not on your own. Everyone feels just as anxious about starting university but you are not thrown in at the deep end. You can be as independent as you like, but you always have help available. University of Brighton, first year student.

Before you get here Your course Your first week

02–09 10 11–12

Your student life

Your career

Brighton Students’ Union

Once you are here …

Campus maps 17–23 Sussex area 17 Brighton area 18 Moulsecoomb campus 19 Grand Parade campus 20 Falmer campus 21 Eastbourne campus 22–23 Hastings campus 24 Useful contacts 25 Your complete checklist

Back cover

THERE’S MORE ONLINE Log into studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk Read our advice especially for students starting this September. From Thursday 25 August you can enrol online, then you’ll be able to check important dates and find out more about your course.

Keep in touch with what is going on at the university. www.facebook.com/ universityofbrighton

Visit www.brighton.ac.uk/ newstudent for an overview of the things you should do before you arrive, important dates and maps and directions to help you get here. Your family and friends, who won’t have access to studentcentral, can find out about university life here. Follow us on Twitter. www.twitter.com/uniofbrighton

In just a few weeks you will be starting your course with us. Going to university can involve all kinds of change and during your first few weeks you are likely to be very busy adjusting to your new situation. There are lots of things that you can do before you get here to prepare and make sure your time with us gets off to the best possible start.

VICE-CHANCELLORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WELCOME

First, read this guide! It includes important information about what you need to do before you get here. This includes completing stage 1 online enrolment, finding out what to expect during your first week, and about life at university and the support and services we provide.

I am delighted that you have chosen to join us at the University of Brighton. You will be part of an academic community that is creative, enterprising and inclusive and that values you, your experience and personal perspective. At Brighton we will encourage you to play an active role in the life of your university, you will be supported throughout your course, and into your career and life after university. We take pride in creating an education experience in partnership with you and with professional associations and accrediting bodies - a sign that your degree will be relevant and high quality. I join with all my colleagues in welcoming you to the University of Brighton, your university. We are committed to do all we can to help you get the best from your studies and your time spent at university, I look forward to meeting you. Professor Debra Humphris Vice-Chancellor 01

BEFORE YOU GET HERE

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO NOW GETTING STARTED ££ Activate your university user account. If you haven’t already you need to activate your university user account - this will provide you with your university username and password for studentcentral. ££ Log into studentcentral to read advice for students starting in September. ££ Upload your university photo.

FINANCE

££ Make or update your student finance application (UK and EU students only). ££ Work out a budget. ££ Open a bank account.

ACCOMMODATION

££ Arrange your accommodation (see our accommodation checklist on page 05)

The most important thing you need to do before you get here is to complete stage 1 online enrolment and upload a photograph for your UniCard.

GETTING STARTED Your university user account You might have activated this already when you applied for a place here, to get into the applicant area on studentcentral. Your username is usually your initials and two or three numbers eg js123. Keep your password safe and don’t share it with anyone.

SOME OF YOU WILL ALSO NEED TO...

££ Book a place on international orientation (international and European students). ££ Arrange childcare and funding. ££ Apply for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). ££ Check your vaccinations are up to date - this applies to all students, but particularly to students studying certain courses.

WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 18 AUGUST

££ If you are getting your A-level results today, you can confirm your place with us. ££ Meet our students on your campus Facebook group – we’ll invite you.

WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 25 AUGUST ££ Complete stage 1 online enrolment.

If you have forgotten or would like to change your password visit myinfo.brighton.ac.uk/forgot. Activate your university user account If you have already used studentcentral you have completed this step. If you haven’t, follow these simple instructions. • Visit https://activate.brighton.ac.uk and follow the instructions. • You will be asked for your University of Brighton student number, which you will find in your welcome email and on your offer letter and offer email. • Make sure you remember your new username and password when they are displayed because you will not get an email reminder.

The morning after online enrolment you can log into studentcentral where you can: ££ check your course details including your start date and term and semester dates ££ start using your university email account.

PREPARE FOR YOUR COURSE Log into studentcentral so you can: ££ Check the academic school and campus where your course is based. ££ Complete all required pre-course preparation. ££ Check the full timetable of events for your first week, including welcome programme events. ££ Look at our academic study kit (ASK) resources www.brighton.ac.uk/ask.

GET READY FOR STUDENT LIFE

££ Check out Freshtival 2016 and sign up for Brighton Students’ Union Freshers’ mailing list at www.brightonsu.com.

WAIT 15 MINUTES for your account to be activated. Logging on to studentcentral Studentcentral is the university’s online learning environment – throughout your time at Brighton you will use studentcentral to manage your studies and access the academic and other resources you need, from wherever you have internet access. Once you have logged in you will be able to see the new student area. Here you will find information to help you get ready for life as a University of Brighton student.

STUDENT FINANCE From Thursday 25 August you can enrol online through studentcentral and then you’ll be able to see information about your course, events during your first week, your school’s induction events and more. Updates are added frequently, so make sure you log in regularly.

STUDENT FINANCE Open a bank account Your student loan or other funding will be paid into your bank account, so it makes sense to have an account organised before you arrive. PP Look for student accounts with benefits that suit you. PP Remember to take ID and confirmation of student status – your acceptance letter. If you have applied for student finance, make sure that the company you applied to has your correct bank details. If you are an EU or international student please be aware that it may take several weeks to open a UK bank account after you have enrolled on your course. You need to make sure you have money for this period by making arrangements similar to those you make if you are going on holiday abroad, like using travellers cheques or a credit or cash card. There are banking facilities on our Moulsecoomb campus and within walking distance of all our other campuses. Student finance If you are a UK or EU student studying an undergraduate course or PGCE, and you have not already done so, you should apply for student finance now.

For more information about student finance and loans visit www.gov.uk/student-finance. Take the time to read our funding and fees information and the advice we provide about managing your money. If you are starting an NHS-funded course you should apply for financial support from NHS bursaries. For more information visit www.gov.uk/nhs-bursaries. If you’re a self-funded international student you’ll need to pay a tuition fee deposit of £2,500 by 31 August. If you require a Tier 4 student visa to study here your deposit must be paid before we can issue you with a CAS number.

Be prepared Make sure you have enough money in your bank account when you arrive to cover your rent, food, study, travel and entertainment costs for at least the first two weeks of term in case there are any delays in receiving your student finance. Make a budget Paying for your studies and your living costs may seem daunting at first, but organising your student finance early and making a budget you can stick to will make a big difference. Support and advice We offer one-to-one advice sessions on all of our campuses. There are hardship funds to help students in certain circumstances and we can help you access these if you are eligible.

If you’re a UK or EU student studying for a postgraduate degree, you can apply for a government loan of up to £10,000. Your loan can be used as a contribution towards the costs of study including tuition fees and maintenance costs.

If you are concerned about your financial situation either before you arrive or once you are here, contact the Student Advice Service. Our service is confidential and non-judgemental.

www.brighton.ac.uk/money

www.brighton.ac.uk/budgeting

Bursaries If you are an English or EU undergraduate student, we will advise if you are eligible for a bursary once you have completed stage 1 online enrolment after 25 August. You need to have given Student Finance England consent for them to share your household income information with us. You do not need to apply for a bursary, your details are passed on to the university automatically by Student Finance England once you receive confirmation of your tuition fee and maintenance loan. Bursaries are paid in two instalments in January and in the Spring.

When you get here, buy your NUS extra card. It costs just £12 and it’ll give you access to over 200 student discounts with UK retailers both in store and online.

Make a clear budget plan even before fresher’s week and search for local deals before you come as well. University of Brighton first year student

You need to advise us as soon as possible if your choice of university has changed since your original UCAS application. We will then confirm your place here with Student Finance. The best way to contact us is to call our Student Advice team +44 (0)1273 642888.

Students who get the care leavers bursary will receive their first instalment at the start of term.

BUDGET CHECKLIST Budget while you are here – calculate your income and expenses and work out what your weekly or monthly income and outgoings are. Budgeting isn’t just about seeing how much money you will need to pay for your food, travel and rent – it’s a really good way of working out how much you can spend on things you enjoy.

INCOME STUDENT LOAN

Your student loan covers the cost of your tuition and your maintenance loan (UK students only) will cover some of your living costs while you are studying.

GRANTS, BURSARIES, SPONSORSHIPS OR SCHOLARSHIPS YOU’RE ELIGIBLE FOR MONEY FROM RELATIVES OR GUARDIANS INCOME FROM A JOB BENEFITS / TAX CREDIT

OUTGOINGS ACCOMMODATION

You can find price details of accommodation at www.brighton.ac.uk/living-here.

HOUSEHOLD BILLS

Internet, TV licence, water, gas, electricity, phone contract and council tax (not applicable if the housing is solely occupied by students).

CONTENTS INSURANCE

Factor this cost in if you live in private accommodation.

Income = same as or more than your outgoings –looks like you’ve got things covered, stick to the budget and you’ll be fine.

MUSIC, FILM AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES CLOTHES AND SHOES CREDIT CARD OR DEBT REPAYMENTS BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT

TRAVEL COSTS

Transport to and from uni as well as visits home. Find out about buses and Unizone train tickets for cheap travel on Southern Rail for students.

FOOD, LAUNDRY

DO THE NUMBERS ADD UP?

HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES AND TOILETRIES

Income = less than your outgoings – your money may not last until the end of term. Are there ways to cut back on your spending or increase your income (for example, a part-time job)?

HEALTHCARE

Dental treatment, glasses and contact lenses.

CHILDCARE

For more advice on ways to manage your money visit www.brighton.ac.uk/moneymatters.

ACCOMMODATION

HALLS OF RESIDENCE AND UNIHOMES

££ Read our halls allocation policy – this explains who is eligible to apply and how to accept our offer of a room. ££ For UK or EU students, if you are eligible and want to apply for halls you need to have done so by Saturday 16 July. ££ For international students,and students studying at Brighton and Sussex Medical School the deadline is Saturday 8 August. ££ We’ll let you know the outcome of your accommodation application after the the relevant deadline has passed and after your place with us is unconditional – so if you’re waiting for results, we’ll let you know the outcome after your results are available and your place is fully confirmed. ££ If we offer you a place in halls you need to pay the first rent instalment within seven days of us contacting you to secure your place. ££ Join your halls Facebook group – we’ll email you details. ££ Complete the online accommodation induction, where you’ll be given an arrival time.

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION ££ Read our advice on looking for accommodation in the private rented sector. ££ Join the house-hunting Facebook group for your location. ££ Check out studenthomes.brighton. ac.uk/accommodation ££ Book your place on a house-hunting event.

Our accommodation team are housing professionals with excellent local knowledge who are here to advise you on all the options open to you, and support you in finding a suitable place to live throughout your time here. Our accommodation options include university-managed halls and houses; support and events to help you find private rented accommodation and homestay – where you rent a room in your landlord’s home.

HALLS OF RESIDENCE Have I got into halls? If you have applied for halls we will contact you from late July onwards to let you know whether you have been allocated a room. • If you already hold an unconditional offer in July you will hear from us soon after the application deadline. • If you are waiting on exam results we will be in touch once your exam results are available and your offer becomes unconditional. We aim to let everyone who applies to halls know by the end of August. Go to www.brighton.ac.uk/ accommodation-policy to read our halls allocation policy. Accepting your offer of a room You need to accept the offer of a room within seven days of us contacting you. You also need to pay your first instalment of rent at this point. Log in to the accommodation portal to do this.

I haven’t got into halls We can’t guarantee everyone who applies a place in halls but we can offer you lots of support in finding an alternative - including reserved rooms, house hunting events and homestay. Reserved room scheme This is a new scheme for 2016 and is available to students who apply for but are not offered a room in halls. The university has worked with local letting agents to secure over 300 rooms in private rented houses in Brighton and the surrounding area exclusively for University of Brighton students. All the properties offered through the scheme have been checked by our accommodation team to ensure that required standards have been met. You’ll be renting a room in a shared house with other University of Brighton students - so it’s a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. If you are offered a reserved room you will need to make an upfront payment to the landlord to secure the room. This would usually be one month’s rent, a deposit and agent’s fee. Rooms in the reserved room scheme are subject to availability.

Once you have accepted your offer of a room you should complete your accommodation induction and book your arrival time.

Log into the accommodation portal using your student number and accommodation account password. http://accommodation. brighton.ac.uk

I joined a Facebook group for the halls I would be staying in. Through this I found three people that I am living with and this meant when we did meet the day I moved in, it was a lot less awkward and it was like we were already friends. 05

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION If you opt for private rented accommodation you get more choice over where you live - and who with. We offer plenty of support and advice if you go for this option. • Book your place on one of our househunting events – these run in August: get advice from our experienced team, meet other students and view potential rental properties available to University of Brighton students only. • Join our closed Facebook groups as another way to meet like-minded house mates and ‘buddy up’ for house hunting – this is another way to get advice from the accommodation team. • Log in to our ‘Student Homes’ database and search through all the accommodation options registered with us. House-hunting events Book your place and meet other students based at your campus who are also looking for somewhere to live. You can view properties on the day, get help with your contract agreement and get face to face advice from our accommodation team. You can attend house-hunting events in Brighton on the following dates from 9am–1pm Monday 22 August – Saturday 27 August. Hastings campus house-hunting event is Friday 26 August. Eastbourne campus house-hunting event is Friday 2 September. Our house-hunting events are subject to demand so check the website to confirm dates and book your place. www.brighton.ac.uk/househunting

Prepare beforehand by visiting our househunting web pages. www.brighton.ac.uk/newstudents/ accommodation#renting

USE OUR DATABASE Before contacting letting agents use our studenthomes database to find private rented accommodation, https://studenthomes.brighton.ac.uk/ is an online service for University of Brighton students providing housing advice, as well as details of houses and flats available for rent in Brighton, Hastings and Eastbourne. You could save up to £200 in agency fees by using it. You need your university username and password to log on. Every year hundreds of students find great places to live using this service.

For more information visit www.brighton.ac.uk/ accommodation or email accommodation@brighton.ac.uk.

HOUSE-HUNTING GUIDE Our house-hunting guide provides advice about finding and renting property in the private sector, and is full of useful information to guide you through the process of choosing the right home. Make sure you read it before you start your accommodation search.

Download the house-hunting guide at www.brighton.ac.uk/ accommodation.

The house hunting event was a great opportunity to meet other new students in the same position as me – some of the people that I met at the event have become my best friends in the years since. The information and guidance provided by the accommodation team meant that finding a house with their help was much easier than doing it alone. Joel Williams, Mechanical Engineering BEng(Hons) graduate

BEFORE YOU GET HERE STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES We recommend you do the following as soon as possible so we can put in place any support you may need. ££ Declare a disability to the university. ££ Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance. Most UK students with disabilities can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) which is designed to help meet any extra costs that may arise from your disability. Students who are not eligible for DSA will still be eligible for funded disability support. ££ Arrange a meeting with the Disability and Dyslexia Team. Book an appointment. ££ Bring up-to-date evidence of your disability either from a medical practitioner or an educational psychologist. We can help you to obtain this evidence if you do not already have it. Your Learning Support Coordinator can also answer any questions that you may have.

Find out more – visit www.brighton.ac.uk/disability.

STUDENTS WITH CHILDREN Apply for childcare There are two nurseries at the University of Brighton, based on the Moulsecoomb and Grand Parade campuses, providing high quality childcare to children of students, staff and the local community. Both have been recognised as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. Contact the manager of the nursery as soon as possible to check availability.

Remember to complete your application for childcare grant or allowance. For more information visit: www.gov.uk/childcare-grant or for NHS-funded students visit: www.gov.uk/nhs-bursaries.

I’m Jodie and I’m an international student adviser.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Get ready for life in the UK To find out more about life, culture and customs in the UK and preparing for study at the University of Brighton visit www. brighton.ac.uk/international/prepare. We offer a free orientation programme for international and EU students, which takes place on 20–23 September. It’s based in Brighton, with daytime events in Eastbourne and Hastings for students who will be studying there. It also includes a meet and greet service for students arriving at London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports on Tuesday 20 September, and accommodation for the duration of the programme. Orientation is designed to help our international and European students adapt to life in the UK and the University of Brighton as easily as possible. You will be able to see where you will be studying, find out about life in the UK, meet university staff, look for accommodation if necessary, and make new friends. Find out more www.brighton.ac.uk/orientation

Find out all about international support at www.brighton.ac.uk/ international/support.

Our Student Advice Service provides high quality, free and confidential immigration advice to our applicants, students and their dependents. Before you can begin your University of Brighton journey you need to complete a number of requirements, and that’s where I can help. It’s my job to help you apply for a visa to study in the UK and to provide you with advice and guidance throughout the immigration process. We understand that your family may have lots of questions too; whether they’ve got questions about finance, visas or life in the UK, we’re here to help them understand what to expect. We have many years of experience of providing immigration advice and have taken all of the necessary training in immigration law. We work to strict guidelines and procedures and are regulated by the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) so you can be confident about the quality of the information and advice we provide to you. www.brighton.ac.uk/immigration

www.brighton.ac.uk/childcare

BEFORE YOU GET HERE CONFIRM YOUR PLACE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON If your offer here is unconditional your place is already confirmed with us. If you’re getting A-level results on Thursday 18 August, we’ll send you an email to confirm your place early that day. You can also visit www.brighton.ac.uk/confirmation from Thursday 18 August and enter your UCAS Personal ID (PID) number. You do not need to call us to confirm your place.

COMPLETE STAGE 1 ONLINE ENROLMENT Once your place has been confirmed you will receive an email from us asking you to enrol online. This email will be sent out from Thursday 25 August when online enrolment opens. It is essential that you complete this process before you arrive at the university so that you can see details about your course and for us to confirm that the details we hold about you are correct. You may need to provide us with missing information such as who to contact in an emergency. To complete online enrolment you need to have activated your university account (see page 02) and be logged on to studentcentral. The morning after you have enrolled online, you will see new tabs on studentcentral: Home, Studies, and Help and Advice. You’ll be able to see information about your course, events on offer during your first week, your school’s induction events and much more. studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk

UPLOAD YOUR UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPH Your university photograph will be used for your UniCard. It is essential that you upload your photograph before you arrive at the university as you will need your UniCard to: • get into your halls of residence • access buildings • access computers • borrow books from the library and other resources. You can upload money on to your UniCard to pay for food and drink from our cafes and restaurants, photocopying and items from our Students’ Union shops. It gives you discounts too so you can start saving money as soon as you get here. TIP: Why not buy your NUS extra card at the same time (www.cards.nusextra. co.uk) – you can use the same photo for both and you can start saving money with the NUS extra discounts on travel and loads of other stuff too.

Log into studentcentral to upload your photo studentcentral.brighton.ac.uk.

DIGITAL TOOLKIT To access the Digital Toolkit visit about.brighton.ac.uk/dt Your digital toolkit will help you access key online services. • University wifi • Your university email • Microsoft cloud services including your free copy of Office Pro Plus (word, excel and powerpoint) • Social media groups • Travel and transport • Budget calculator Many of these services will be available to you after you have enrolled online from 25 August. You should start using your university email address before you get here and throughout your time as a student here, making sure you check your inbox regularly; otherwise you may miss important information and updates. If you are applying for placements or part-time employment your university email address is the one you should use.

CONFIRM THE START DATE OF YOUR COURSE ON STUDENTCENTRAL The first day for most courses is Monday 26 September, but some of our courses have different start dates. To confirm when the first day of your course is and other course-specific instructions, log into studentcentral and go to the Studies tab and click on My Course area where you’ll find key dates for your course. The following courses have earlier start dates, but note this is not a complete list and you should check studentcentral to be sure of your course start date.

Brighton and Sussex Medical School Brighton and Sussex Medical School students’ induction week starts on Monday 12 September 2016. MedSoc will be arranging welcome activities on 10-11 September. PGCE (postgraduate teacher training) Starts on Monday 5 September. Postgraduate health courses Most have earlier start dates – check studentcentral.

CHECK TERM AND SEMESTER DATES Term dates 2016–2017 Autumn • Monday 26 September – Friday 16 December Spring • Monday 9 January – Friday 31 March Summer • Monday 24 April – Friday 9 June Semester dates Semester 1 • Monday 3 October – Friday 3 February Semester 2 • Monday 6 February – Friday 9 June

STAY HEALTHY, GET VACCINATED Before you arrive read our health advice about mumps, measles and meningitis. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, including the Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) vaccination for 18-25 year olds. Students on some health courses require additional vaccinations – you will be contacted if this applies to you.

YOUR COURSE CONFIRM YOUR ACADEMIC SCHOOL AND CAMPUS

FIND OUT ABOUT YOUR COURSE INDUCTION EVENTS

The University of Brighton is organised into academic schools, based on campuses in Brighton and Eastbourne. Courses from a number of academic schools are taught on our Hastings campus.

In addition to your in-person enrolment, your academic school organises induction events specific to your course. These events may include a school welcome, introduction to your course, meeting your tutor and introductory teaching sessions. Information about your welcome programme can be found on studentcentral after you have enrolled online. Please click on the timetable button on the home tab.

Your course is based in one of the academic schools listed below: • Brighton and Sussex Medical School • Brighton Business School • School of Applied Social Science • School of Architecture and Design • School of Art • School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics • School of Education • School of Environment and Technology • School of Health Sciences • School of Humanities • School of Media • School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences • School of Sport and Service Management. Courses validated by the university are also taught at our partner colleges across Sussex. You will find the school and campus where your course is based on the letter accompanying this guide and on the new student area of studentcentral.

PRE-COURSE PREPARATION For some courses there may be some pre-course preparation, or information you must read before you start your course, such as reading lists. You can find out more about any requirements specific to your course by logging into studentcentral and visiting the My Course section of the Studies tab.

WHEN CAN YOU EXPECT TO SEE YOUR TIMETABLE? Your timetable will be available on studentcentral after you have completed stage 1 online enrolment - click on the timetable icon on the home tab. Timetables are provisional until after the start of term so we advise that you do not buy your season ticket or make work commitments if possible.

YOUR FIRST WEEK

COMPLETE YOUR ENROLMENT AND GO TO COURSE WELCOME EVENTS

££ Attend stage 2 in-person enrolment. ££ Go to your course induction events.

GET INVOLVED IN STUDENT LIFE

££ Go to the freshers’ fairs and Students’ Union events – join in Freshtival 2016. ££ Have fun, meet new people, join a club or society. ££ Get your NUS Extra card for student discounts in shops, restaurants and online. Visit www.nus.org.uk/nusextra.

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF

££ Register with a doctor near where you live. ££ Find out about our student services and how to find them if you need them.

Monday 26 September is the first official day of the university’s autumn term. Some courses start earlier than the first official day of term: check studentcentral if you are unsure when your course starts.

Log onto to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab for information on first day of your course and full programme of events for your first week.

ATTEND STAGE 2 IN-PERSON ENROLMENT In order to become a fully enrolled student at the university and receive your UniCard, you need to complete stage 2 of the enrolment process, in-person enrolment. Attendance at in-person enrolment is essential and you need to bring ID. This needs to be your passport or birth/ adoption certificate and at least one of the following: • full or provisional driving license • bank debit card • national insurance card • NHS medical card.

HOW TO ACCESS THE UNIVERSITY WIFI Select eduroam from the list of networks on your device. Enter your eduroam user name, @ and the university domain: • your user name is the one you use to access studentcentral • the domain is brighton.ac.uk. • For example abc1@brighton.ac.uk. Click continue/connect/trust/accept if asked. Visit about.brighton.ac.uk/dt for a quick guide on how to access our online services.

You may also be asked to bring in original copies of your certificates and transcripts but will be notified in advance if you are required to do so.

If you do not attend the in-person enrolment session you will experience delays in receiving your funding. If you are unable to attend your in-person enrolment session contact the enrolment helpline (see page 25) as soon as possible. 11

STAGE 2 IN-PERSON ENROLMENT DATES AND VENUES

Please make sure you have enough money to cover your costs for the first two weeks of term in case of any delays.

To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log into studentcentral and go to the My Course section of the Studies tab which will be available once you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 25 August.

If you are eligible for an NHS Student Bursary visit www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ students for information regarding payment.

You may have other induction or course events before your enrolment so make sure you check on studentcentral when and where you have to be. EU and international students attending our orientation programme will be able to attend stage 2 in-person enrolment on Friday 23 September. Monday 26 September • Eastbourne • Moulsecoomb • Hastings Tuesday 27 September • Falmer • Moulsecoomb Wednesday 28 September • Grand Parade • Moulsecoomb If you course starts earlier than 26 September, check studentcentral for your enrolment date.

RECEIVING YOUR STUDENT FUNDING

Once you have completed your enrolment with the university, if you have applied for student finance the university will confirm your registration and attendance with the Student Loans Company. Your maintenance loan will be released to your bank account, usually within three to four working days and your tuition fee loan will be paid straight to the university.

ATTEND COURSE INDUCTION EVENTS IN YOUR ACADEMIC SCHOOL You will need to attend induction and teaching events for your course during your first week. These events may start before you attend your in-person enrolment session. You can find out the dates, times and locations of these events by logging into studentcentral and going to your timetable on the home tab which will be available once you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 25 August.

MEET THE VICE-CHANCELLOR During your first week, the Vice-Chancellor or Deputy Vice-Chancellor will welcome you to the university and provide you with some essential information about the university community. You can find out the dates and times of these sessions by logging into studentcentral and go to your timetable on the home tab (available the morning after you have completed online enrolment after Thursday 25 August).

MEET STUDENT SERVICES Student Services provide support to help make your university experience the best it can be. You can meet members of the Student Services team at your in-person enrolment session and at the freshers’ fairs organised by the Students’ Union.

GO TO STUDENT UNION WELCOME EVENTS A variety of events including freshers’ fairs are run by the Students’ Union during the first two weeks of term. They take place in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings and are a chance to sign up for student clubs, societies and sports teams.

You can find out more at www.brightonsu.com.

ATTEND LIBRARY INDUCTION AND IT SKILLS INDUCTION SESSIONS Library induction and IT skills sessions take place early in the autumn term.

You can find out more at www.brighton.ac.uk/is. 12

YOUR STUDENT LIFE Getting involved with things outside your course during your time here will definitely add to your skills and experience. But more than that, it’s about finding what it is you love to do and is a great way to make new friends.

SPORT AND FITNESS Sport Brighton is run in partnership by the university and the Students’ Union and can help you take part in whatever sporting activity you like, whether you want to compete, keep fit or just have fun. There are fitness, health and wellbeing classes and many clubs and societies to choose from.

Check the website: www.brighton.ac.uk/ sportbrighton.

YOUR STUDENT VOICE We listen to feedback and ideas from our students to make sure we provide you with the best possible student experience. As well as asking for your feedback through surveys, such as the National Student Survey and the Brighton Student Survey, you can talk to your course tutor, school staff or student services at any time or you can contact the Students’ Union, or your course rep. Brighton Students’ Union leadership team are elected by students to represent students, and they campaign on a range of issues to ensure the student voice is heard. The student contract highlights the university and Students’ Union relationship with our students through shared commitments and expectations. www.brighton.ac.uk/studentcontract

SOCIETIES, CLUBS AND EVENTS

BECOME A STUDENT AMBASSADOR

Brighton Students’ Union brings together like-minded students through shared interests. It’s a great way to meet new people, take part in activities and gain new skills outside of your studies. You can find a club or society that’s right for you at our Brighton Students’ Union Freshers’ Fair or have a look online before you get here.

We are always looking for new students to help us to promote the university through our Student Recruitment and Outreach Ambassador Programme. We have paid opportunities available to work at events such as open days and higher education fairs as well as with local schools, colleges and communities. We will be recruiting ambassadors to work at our autumn open days.

www.brightonsu.com/societies

There are loads of sports teams, as well as lots of other fun things... I know lots of people who have really enjoyed them! In terms of course reps, it’s a great thing to do and put on your CV.

A LIFELONG LINK Even when you graduate you’ll still be able to access our sports, library and careers services through our alumni association. You can also benefit from the Alumni Advice Network while you are still a student and we are happy to put you in touch with alumni to discuss career paths and opportunities or to just get some advice about being at university.

Chat to us at the freshers’ fair or contact studentambassadors@ brighton.ac.uk for more information.

Lauren Mac – Photography BA(Hons) student

YOUR CAREER BOOST YOUR CAREER POTENTIAL

VOLUNTEERING AND MENTORING

Part of your university experience is about preparing for your future career. It is never too early to start thinking about next steps and how you can make the most of your time here.

Volunteering provides opportunities to gain experience, enhance your employability and meet new people. The Active Student Volunteering Service will work with you to find a rewarding, safe and supported role within the local community.

Charlotte Jackson Digital Media BA(Hons)

www.brighton.ac.uk/careers www.brighton.ac.uk/volunteering

CAREER DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT You can book an appointment with one of our professionally qualified Career Development Advisers as soon as you start your course. Our advisers can help you decide what activities you should do to help you with your career development.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP Beepurple, our enterprise support programme, helps students and graduates get their business ideas off to the best possible start. Over 3,500 staff, students and alumni have signed up to the Beepurple entrepreneurship programme. Beepurple offers free workshops to develop members’ enterprise skills as well as one-to-one business support for anyone looking to develop an entrepreneurial idea, start a company or social enterprise or for those who are already trading. www.beepurple.co.uk

Our mentoring scheme, Momentum, offers you the chance to work with a mentor to improve your confidence and boost your chances of career success. Mentors are professionals that come from a variety of backgrounds and are committed to help you develop your skills. www.brighton.ac.uk/careers

FINDING A JOB DURING AND AFTER UNIVERSITY Whether you know what you want to do when you graduate or not, you can get expert advice from our Careers Service staff who can help you with your CV, job applications and interview techniques. They can help you to research careers and further study and training opportunities. While you are here, there are lots of ways we can help you to develop your skills: • Get a part-time job, volunteer or develop your own business ideas • Join or start up a club or society • Take advantage of placement opportunities • Work for the university • Become a course rep.

Find out more about how we can help you develop your career through our connector. about.brighton.ac.uk/connector

The degree introduced me to many skills for the digital media industry and inspired me to discover my passion for web design and development. The course regularly exposed me to industry professionals, placement opportunities and relevant conferences in the local web community – these were fantastic opportunities. For more information visit www.brighton.ac.uk/careers. University of Brighton student Charlotte Jackson secured a job in Sussex’s thriving digital sector – even before graduating. The Digital Media student, who graduated last July was snapped up by digital marketing agency, RocketMill, as a web designer and developer. Charlotte took full advantage of the opportunities open to her as part of her course, and those available to all Brighton students, helping to make her a very attractive proposition for employers.

BRIGHTON STUDENTS’ UNION

So you’re on your way to the University of Brighton. Starting university can feel a bit daunting, but it’s such an exciting time and one you’ll remember for a very long time.

CHANGE THINGS Lead campaigns, stand in our elections, become a course rep, attend NUS National Conference, nominate university staff for the Excellence Awards.

Did you know you’re automatically a member of the Students’ Union as soon as you enrol here.

FUN TIMES

Getting involved in your Students’ Union is one of the best ways to make the most of your time as a student. In fact, ensuring that you have the most fantastic, fulfilling experience at the University of Brighton is our mission as an organisation.

Come along to Freshtival and welcome events, enjoy exclusive student discounts with NUS extra, relax in our cafe-bars on campus, go out to our weekly nightclub events and special nights like our garden party and the Hollywood ball.

As we’re led by students and work solely for our student members, you can guarantee that we’re on your side. The Students’ Union’s work falls into four main categories, here’s just a taster of all that’s available to you.

GOOD ADVICE Obtain free advice and guidance from the Students’ Union Support Service and our sexual health drop-ins. Benefit from our health and wellbeing, and housing campaigns.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES Join a club or society, get involved in student media, volunteer in the community, get a job with the Students’ Union, and be nominated for a volunteer award. You’re automatically a member of the Students’ Union as soon as you enrol at the university.

Join a community of thousands of University of Brighton students by following us social media. www.facebook.com/ brightonstudentsunion twitter.com/subrighton instagram.com/subrighton www.brightonsu.com 15

ONCE YOU ARE HERE... Got any questions about uni life or need help with something?

ASK US Speak to our staff Your personal tutor, Student Support and Guidance Tutor (SSGT), course rep, or staff in your school. Look out for staff in blue lanyards or ‘ASK ME’ badges to help answer your questions. Ask a question online Click on the Help and Advice tab in studentcentral. Visit your nearest Student Services centre You’ll find confidential and impartial advice at every campus. Contact the Students’ Union They’re here to enhance your university experience.

TRAVEL AROUND CAMPUS Whatever your location there are transport options which appeal both to students on a budget, as well as those hoping to reduce their carbon emissions. All our campuses have excellent public transport links and you can make good savings on train fares by purchasing the UniZone rail ticket and on bus fares by purchasing a student keycard. There are facilities for cyclists on all our campuses, such as bike racks, pumps and toolkits. Brighton has a great network of cycle lanes across the city and there are lockable cycle cages on most of our campuses. While we encourage our staff and students to use alternatives to car travel wherever possible, some of our campuses have limited permit-controlled parking for students who can show that car travel is essential.

www.brighton.ac.uk/ask-us

STUDY SUPPORT There is a lot of support available to help you with your studies, from online tools to one-to-one tutoring, alongside specialist support for students with specific needs. You can explore our online academic study kit (ASK) and find out dates of study skills sessions at www.brighton.ac.uk/ask. Studentcentral can help you manage your workload and provides access to e-books, journals and other study materials tailored to your course.

The accommodation service has offices in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. We can offer advice and help to find accommodation to new students and current students. We’re open year round and our friendly team is here to help with halls queries, private rented sector guidance and housing advice.

www.brighton.ac.uk/travel

COMMUNICATION FROM THE UNIVERSITY

ACADEMIC ENGLISH SKILLS

You are going to be busy at university and there is a lot to take in – it’s easy to miss important information. Look out for updates from us throughout the year, relating to your student finances, your studies, career and student life in general. These messages will be sent to your university email address and via studentcentral.

If English is not your first language and you would like to develop your academic English skills, our international academic study kit (iASK) offers free help. www.brighton.ac.uk/iask

FINDING A PART-TIME JOB

Many of our full-time students work parttime while they are studying. You might need to work for financial reasons, or you might want to work to gain experience and learn new skills. If you decide to get a part-time job while you are studying then register online with the Careers Service. www.brighton.ac.uk/careers

ACCOMMODATION SERVICES

We will also let you know of opportunities to get involved with paid market research, enter competitions and to give your feedback about the university.

MAPS Sussex area: how to get here A1(M) M11 M25 M25 M40

M25

HEATHROW AIRPORT

M3 M2 M25

M26 M25 M20 M23

GATWICK AIRPORT A22

DOVER

FOLKSTONE

A23

(CHANNEL TUNNEL)

Maps and directions For maps of all of our campuses, and travel and parking advice visit www.brighton.ac.uk/maps.

Key Contact details including those for school offices are provided at www.brighton.ac.uk/contactus.

University site/building

BRIGHTON AREA Our Brighton campuses A23 London

Stanmer

A27

Falmer train station

VARLEY PARK

A27

Coldean Lane

FALMER CAMPUS PADDOCK FIELDS AND GREAT WILKINS London Road

MOULSECOOMB PLACE

Moulsecoomb train station

MOULSECOOMB CAMPUS A270 Lewes Road

PHOENIX BREWERY

Brighton train station

GRAND PARADE CAMPUS

A259

Brighton Pier Brighton Marina Key University campus/building Halls of residence Train station

MOULSECOOMB CAMPUS N W

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Moulsecoomb Train Station

Huxley Building

Heavy Engineering Block Cockcroft Building

w Le

Watts Building

Watts House

Sports Hall

Mithras House

To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log on to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab.

A23 Ric hmond Pla ce

s Place A23 St George’

GRAND PARADE CAMPUS St Peter’s House Library

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A23 Gran d Pa rade

A23 Glou ceste r Place

Glouc ester Street

A23 Marl boro ugh

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Kings wood Street

Grand Parade Old Court Room

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Brighton Dome

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Royal Pavilion

A23 Pa vilion Pa rade

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Pavilion Parade Edward Street

A23 Old Steine

Brighton seafront

FALMER CAMPUS

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B2123 The D rove

A27

American Express Community Stadium

Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union A27

Mayfield House

Falmer Train Station Checkland Building

Westlain Building

Library Falmer Sports Centre Paddock Field Halls of Residence Great Wilkins Halls of Residence Virgin Active Brighton

A27

A270 Lewes Road

Brighton Aldridge Community Academy

To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log on to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab.

EASTBOURNE CAMPUS

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Welkin Halls of Residence

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Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union

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Welkin Labs

Trevin Towers

Carlisle Road

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Link Road

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John Fulton Hall

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Hillbrow

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Gaudick Gym

Hillbrow Sports Hall

To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log on to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab.

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Robert Dodd

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Greynore 2

Greynore 3

Meads St reet

Road Darley

Road Matlock

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Darley Road

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Ward Hall

Road Darley

Meads St reet

Queenwood Library

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Hastings Train Station

HASTINGS CAMPUS Sussex Coast College Hastings

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Cornwalls Gardens

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Havelock Road Priory Square

A21

Cambridge St

Albert Rd

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A21

A259

ade Carlisle Par

A259

Robert Tressell Halls 20 minute walk

Key University building Halls of residence Train station

To confirm where and when you will complete stage 2 in-person enrolment log on to studentcentral and click on the timetable icon on the home tab.

Hastings Old Town 10 minute walk

ill

USEFUL CONTACTS These are the contact details that you are most likely to need before you arrive and during your first few weeks.

Brighton 01273 644100 accommodation@brighton.ac.uk

Admissions and general enquiries 01273 644644 enquiries@brighton.ac.uk The enquiries team are your first point of contact for help with studentcentral, activating your university account or any other questions you have about starting university. You can also read our FAQs on studentcentral and Facebook.

This service handles all Brighton halls of residence queries and UniHome, Homestay and private sector accommodation enquiries for Brightonbased students.

Contact admissions and general enquiries 01273 644644 enquiries@brighton.ac.uk Enrolment helpline 01273 644777 studentadministration@brighton.ac.uk For questions about stage 1 online enrolment and stage 2 in-person enrolment. Tuition fees enquiry team 01273 642449 fees@brighton.ac.uk For queries about what fees you need to pay and how to pay, contact the fee enquiry team. Fees, loans and grants 01273 642449 Fees assessment 01273 644500 Accommodation The university has accommodation services in Brighton, Eastbourne and Hastings. Offices are open between 9.30am and 4.30pm from Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday and 9.30am and 4pm on Friday. At peak times, our aim is to respond to any query within two working days. You should also check studentcentral and Facebook regularly for updates about accommodation.

Eastbourne 01273 643810 accomeastbourne@brighton.ac.uk Enquiries about Welkin halls of residence and private sector accommodation in Eastbourne. Hastings 01273 644631 accomhastings@brighton.ac.uk Advice about Robert Tressell Halls, Havelock Road and private sector accommodation in Hastings.

Childcare 01273 642021 (Moulsecoomb) 01273 277016 (Grand Parade) childcare@brighton.ac.uk Disability and dyslexia 01273 643799 disability@brighton.ac.uk Student advice service Specialist advice about issues including benefits, money management, visas and immigration 01273 642888 studentadvice@brighton.ac.uk Sport Brighton Advice about our facilities, the availability of sports and activities and how to join in 01273 643520 www.brighton.ac.uk/sport

Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS)

Brighton Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union

01273 643528 medadmissions@bsms.ac.uk

01273 642746 www.brightonsu.com

When you are here studentservices@brighton.ac.uk www.brighton.ac.uk/current-students Twitter: @brightonstudent Information and advice from your campus Moulsecoomb 01273 642671 Grand Parade 01273 643187 Falmer 01273 643584 Eastbourne 01273 644732 Hastings 01273 641174 Careers Service Find part-time work and volunteering opportunities 01273 642855 careers@brighton.ac.uk

This publication is available in alternative formats on request. University of Brighton Mithras House, Lewes Road Brighton, BN2 4AT email enquiries@brighton.ac.uk telephone 01273 644644 fax 01273 642607 international code (+441273) www.brighton.ac.uk MC/SLSJ/0716/V1/8000 25

YOUR COMPLETE CHECKLIST

GETTING STARTED ££ Activate your university user account. If you haven’t already, you need to activate your university user account – this will provide you with your university username and password for studentcentral. ££ Log into studentcentral to read advice for students starting in September. ££ Upload your university photo.

FINANCE

££ Make or update your student finance application (UK and EU students only). ££ Work out a budget. ££ Open a bank account.

££ Complete stage 1 online enrolment.

PREPARE FOR YOUR COURSE

££ Arrange your accommodation (see our accommodation checklist on page 05).

Log into studentcentral so you can: ££ Check the academic school and campus where your course is based. ££ Complete all required pre-course preparation. ££ Check the full timetable of events for your first week, including welcome programme events. ££ Look at our academic study kit (ASK) resources www.brighton.ac.uk/ask.

SOME OF YOU WILL ALSO NEED TO...

GET READY FOR STUDENT LIFE

ACCOMMODATION

££ Book a place on international orientation (international and European students). ££ Arrange childcare and funding. ££ Apply for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). ££ Check your vaccinations are up to date – this applies to all students, but particularly to students studying certain courses.

WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 18 AUGUST

££ If you are getting your A-level results today, you can confirm your place with us. ££ Meet other students on your campus Facebook group – we’ll invite you.

WHAT YOU CAN DO FROM 25 AUGUST

££ Check out Freshtival 2016 and sign up for Brighton Students’ Union Freshers’ mailing list at www.brightonsu.com.

ACCOMMODATION HALLS OF RESIDENCE

££ We’ll let you know the outcome of your accommodation application after the the relevant deadline has passed and after your place with us is unconditional – so if you’re waiting for results, we’ll let you know the outcome after your results are available and your place is fully confirmed. ££ If we offer you a place in halls you need to pay the first rent instalment within seven days of us contacting you to secure your place. ££ Join your halls Facebook group – we’ll email you details. ££ Complete the online accommodation induction, where you’ll be given an arrival time.

PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION

££ Read our advice on looking for accommodation in the private sector. ££ Join the house-hunting Facebook group for your location. ££ Check out studenthomes.brighton. ac.uk/accommodation. ££ Book your place on a house-hunting event.

COMPLETE YOUR ENROLMENT AND GO TO COURSE WELCOME EVENTS

££ Attend stage 2 in-person enrolment. ££ Go to your course induction events. ££ Go to the freshers’ fairs and Students’ Union events – join in Freshtival 2016. ££ Have fun, meet new people, join a club or society. ££ Get your NUS Extra card for student discounts in shops, restaurants and online. Visit www.nus.org.uk/nusextra. ££ Register with a doctor near where you live. ££ Find out about our student services and how to find them if you need them.