Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018/19

A handy travel-sized guide to learning at GC and living in . Learning That Works. So you’re thinking about studying at GC? About this Guide

Contents including , by the British Council for the and The Forest teaching of English (EFL) 3. So you’re thinking about studying at GC? of Dean. With a history and is a member of English 4. Why GC? dating back to 1838, GC UK. 6. Cheltenham Campus is a provider of BTEC and is also a UKVI Sponsor of 7. Explore Cheltenham other Further and Higher international students. 8. Gloucester Campus Education courses to 9. Explore Gloucester Studying at GC is about approximately 4,000 full- 10. Campus so much more than a time students and 15,000 11. Out and About qualification. You will be part-time students. The first 12. National and Higher Diplomas joining a diverse, supportive choice for those who think 13. International Foundation Programme and close-knit community of differently, GC prepares 14. University Progression staff and students who will students for life, helps them 16. English Language encourage your passions, become more employable 17. Teacher Training help you to develop your and supports students 18. Short Courses, Mini Stays and Bespoke Courses confidence and skills and with their next steps to 20. Summer School create life-long memories. University. 21. Trips and Excursions Come and write your story, be 22. Accommodation 23. Student Support 24. Visas This guide is designed to “Students are highly motivated, 26. Travel Checklist give you information about applying to and studying with good behaviour, a clear at Gloucestershire College (GC) as an International sense of purpose and a student. Please also courteous attitude to peers, refer to our main college prospectus and website staff and visitors.” Ofsted, 2016 for further information: www.gloscol.ac.uk/ international. GC has been welcoming inspired and see for yourself! Gloucestershire College is international students from one of the largest FE colleges over 35 different countries in England, with three for over 45 years. With modern campuses spanning experienced and qualified across the Cotswolds, teachers, GC is accredited

2 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 3 Why GC?

Fun-filled activities and sports

Over 45 years experience welcoming international Memorable excursions to top students and groups Location UK cities and attractions We have excellent transport links to other major

places of interest. Beautiful, safe and historic We are one hour location in the heart of from Oxford, England Safe, comfortable and Birmingham, welcoming accommodation and Bath and two hours from Edinburgh

London Large, modern campuses by car or train with excellent facilities Multinational student community with over 35 Cheltenham different nationalities – Campus make new friends from around Gloucester High quality and inspirational Birmingham the world Campus teaching for all levels Forest of Dean Cardiff by experienced and Oxford Campus qualified teachers Bristol London Personalised group courses to suit your needs

Facilities include salons, theatres, recording studios, affordable restaurants and British Council accredited iMac suites and a member of English UK, English UK Central and Young Learners English UK

4 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 5 Cheltenham Campus

Our vibrant Cheltenham Campus Facilities boasts big, bright open spaces Modern library, with iMacs and floor-to- across three floors, with plenty ceiling windows of areas for independent study, Computing labs a lively hair and beauty salon, Multi-sports court student-run restaurant ‘Number Purpose-built construction workshops ONE’ and the Cheltenham Tinies Nursery Subsidised dining including; Food Central Fashion Academy. canteen serving hot and cold lunches and Explore The campus is situated on Princess restaurant ‘Number ONE’ ‘The Brewery Quarter’ Leisure Area Afternoon Tea Elizabeth Way, just ten minutes from Bus stop at the front door of the campus Cheltenham town centre and is easily Imperial Gardens Courses available at Cheltenham: accessible by car, bike and regular bus Pump Room Music, Literature and Science Festivals services. Art and Design Fashion At Cheltenham, you will find Student Computing Services, the International team and the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Accommodation Office for all the advice and International Foundation Programme support you’ll need, as well as a gorgeous Junior/Adult Summer School green ‘Meadow Bank’ open outdoor space, Short Courses ideal for soaking up the sun on warmer days. Teacher Training and CELTA

6 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. 7 Gloucester Campus

Making a big, bold statement in blue, our buzzing Gloucester Campus commands an enviable location in the heart of the city, at the historic Gloucester Docks, set in the stunning grounds of .

Easy to access by foot, bike or car, the Courses available at Gloucester campus is just a hop and a skip away Art and Design from the popular outlet Business shopping destination, where there are plenty Computing of trendy shops, bars, restaurants and a Explore Engineering cinema for you to enjoy. Film Harry Potter Tours ‘The Quays’ Leisure Area Facilities Graphic Design Kingsholm Rugby Stadium Beatrix Potter Museum Construction centre with industry-standard Junior Summer School for Groups Historic Docks Climbing and Caving Centre tools and machinery Media Aircraft simulation room Music TV, film and music recording studios Performing Arts/Theatre Motor vehicle garages Photography Student gym Spatial Design On-site salon Sport Dance studio and theatre Travel and Tourism

8 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. 9 Forest of Dean Campus

Situated in a beautiful, rural location in , beside a lake, our Forest of Dean campus is accessible by car and regular bus services.

The brand-new campus for 2018 is Courses available at the Forest of Dean designed to be environmentally-friendly and Art and Design is packed with modern facilities. Thanks to Business its enviable countryside location, the Forest Junior Summer School for Groups of Dean Campus is home to our outdoor Outdoor Education education courses – ideal for those that Explore crave adventure! Over 45 Annual Festivals Facilities Artist Outdoor Adventure and Watersports Industry standard training kitchens visualisations. Subject to change Shopping Food Central canteen and student while building is run restaurant completed Infinity Photography Studio ICT suites Large theatre Specialist art studios Construction and motor vehicle workshops On-site hair and beauty therapy salons

10 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. 11 National and Higher International 100% Diplomas Foundation pass rate! Looking to apply to a UK university? Programme Take a look at our Diplomas or International Foundation Programme. GC offers BTEC National Diplomas in a huge range of subjects. Equivalent to 3 A Are you looking to study at a Levels, Level 3 Diplomas allow you to focus on a specific college with excellent facilities, area of interest, alongside English language classes. that will equip you with the They are 2 year courses which allow you to apply to qualifications and skills you need a UK university. to progress to a UK University? Our IFP with a Business pathway specialises in blending English language, business studies and university preparation to ensure that you Art and Design, Photography, Engineering are fully prepared for a UK university. Media, Music and Performing Arts Mechanical Engineering Extended Diploma (L3) Art and Design Extended Diploma (L3) Electrical and Electronic Engineering Extended The qualification will even guarantee you Art and Design (Photography) (L5) Diploma (L3) progression to our two partner universities for a Creative Media Production (L3) HNC/HND Fashion Academy range of degree courses. Film and Moving Image HNC/HND (L4/5) Art and Design (Fashion) HNC/HND (L4/L5) Entry Requirements: Graphic Design Extended Diploma (L3) Fashion Design Diploma (L3) Graphic Design HNC/HND (L4/L5) Minimum 16 years old Media Extended Diploma (L3) IT and Computing (L3) IELTS 5.0 or higher if English is not your Music Extended Diploma (L3) Computing Extended Diploma Pathways: Software Engineering and Development, Forensic Computing first language, or a secondary English Music HNC/HND (L4/L5) and Cyber Security, Web and App Development pass grade* Music Technology Extended Diploma (L3) Computer Games Development Extended Performing Arts Extended Diploma (L3 Diploma (L3) A good secondary school leaving Photography (Digital and Traditional) Extended certificate from your country Sports, Public Services and “I chose to study the International Diploma (L3) Outdoor Adventure *If you do not have this level of English, we Foundation Programme at GC because Spacial Design and Interior Design HNC/HND Sport Extended Diploma (L3) can offer you an English language course to the course equipped me with the right Theatre Production HNC (L4) Sport (Outdoor Education) improve your English before you go on to the knowledge to apply to university and Business, Administration, International Foundation Programme. Contact Extended Diploma (L3) study Marketing Management. It is a Management and Finance our International team for further information. Travel and Tourism Find out Business Extended Diploma (L3) safe and friendly place to study, with Pathways: Administration, HR Management, Management, Marketing Travel and Tourism more in our good facilities and great teachers to Extended Diploma (L3) Business HNC (L4) main college guide you.” Ariyan - IFP Student Business HNC (L5) prospectus. Business and Enterprise (L3) Prices Please email [email protected] Pathways: Administration, HR Management, Management, Marketing Information www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/courses/international-foundation-degree

12 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 13 University Progression

Our students have been successful in securing places at top UK universities, including The Russell Group, all across the country.

1. Belfast (Queen’s University Belfast) 2. Bristol (University of West of England) 1 10 3. Cardiff (Cardiff University) 4. Gloucestershire (University of Gloucestershire) 9 5. Liverpool (University of Liverpool) 5 “I felt welcomed into the Gloucestershire College 11 6. London (Imperial College) community from the moment I arrived. I had a great 7. London (King’s College) experience. The tutors are excited about their 8. London (London School of Economics) 4 8 3 6 9. Manchester (University of Manchester) 2 7 research and teaching, are eager to share their knowledge 10. Sheffield (University of Sheffield) with students and help them to achieve on their own.” 11. Warwick (University of Warwick) Busra – Graphic Design Diploma Student

14 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | | Tel:Tel: +44 +44 (0) (0) 345 1242 155 532144 2020 15 English Language Teacher Training

The global demand for English language is ever expanding. Do you want a career in international teaching? Are you already a teacher looking to develop new skills and share best practice? At GC, we have been offering a range of high quality teacher training courses for over 30 years and as a result, have a well- established global reputation. Where better to learn and improve Academic English your English language skills than Helping you with aspects of everyday study From internationally recognised qualifications skills and academic needs. such as CELTA, to bespoke courses to suit in the heart of England? GC has your individual or group needs, GC helps IELTS Preparation a long and successful heritage you to achieve your goals. of teaching English as a Foreign We prepare students to develop the language, confidence and exam technique skills to CELTA Language (EFL). achieve IELTS success. CELTA is a first stage teaching course for With a highly experienced and well-qualified those with little or no experience of English We are also a Cambridge authorised team of EFL teachers, we offer you a range of language teaching. CELTA enables you examination centre and offer the following classes depending on your needs and level of to teach English as a Foreign Language Cambridge examinations: PET, FCE, CAE, English. (EFL) and English for Speakers of Other CPE on site in December and June (subject to Languages (ESOL). All of our courses include tuition, course books numbers). Entry Requirements and materials. Social activities and excursions Entry Requirements to major cities are also organised, so that you Full Time and Part Time courses available High level of English can have a truly immersive British experience, Minimum Elementary level of English 2 A Levels or equivalent or even outside of the classroom. Minimum age of 16 suitable experience General English Prices Bespoke Courses Focusing on all areas of English: grammar, Please email [email protected] vocabulary, listening, speaking, reading, writing We have also successfully delivered bespoke and pronunciation. courses, including CLIL and TKT, both in “The tutors are really friendly, it’s like a the UK and abroad for groups of teachers, Business English which have contributed to international state Focusing on specific vocabulary and big family and you are always supported. education development programmes. business-related concepts. My English has improved a lot, I’m speaking more fluently.” Celine – EFL Student Further information Further information www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/courses/ English-as-a-foreign-language-efl www.gloscol.ac.uk/international/celta

16 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 17 Short Courses, Mini Stays and What’s Included? Bespoke Courses Specialist, Business, or General English classes Bespoke activities and/or trips Half board accommodation in one of our carefully selected nearby homestay families 24 hour emergency contact support Free English classes for group leaders in the morning (term time only) English CEF Level assessment upon arrival and end of course certificate Our Short Courses provide the Our Short Courses, Mini Stays and Bespoke perfect opportunity to improve Courses combine English classes with 1 free group leader place per 15 students with option for them to attend English your knowledge of English in relevant specialist educational and vocational input, as well as enriching cultural and classes if available (mornings only) a relaxed environment, whilst educational excursions which can be tailored experiencing British culture, to your needs. exploring England and meeting people from all over the world.

We offer various short course packages such as General Short courses, Preparation for Work, Preparation for “I loved my host family – they were like my Business, as well as bespoke short courses tailored to suit your requirements. second family! They were kind and Optional Extras made me delicious English food that I had Full-day or half-day excursions across the UK to major cities and attractions, including We help you design your bespoke course never eaten before. It was challenging so that it’s suitable for you and your group, London, Bristol, Birmingham, Bath and Oxford. to speak with them, but I was able to use with a focus on specific subjects such as Return airport transfers / Bus passes some of the expressions I had learned in Media, Catering, Fashion, Art, History or Extra group leader place for £150 per week Outdoor Adventure. my English classes.” Hazuki – Short Course Student Extra night accommodation: £25 per person per night

Prices Please email [email protected] Please note that students must be aged 12+ for all of our packages. Further information www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/short-courses/

18 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 19 Speak to the team about booking our Trips Summer School new Residential Summer School And Excursions We want you to get the best out of your stay and know that learning continues outside of the classroom. That is why at GC, we organise a variety of trips and excursions both for Summer School and throughout the year for International Students on any course. This is to make sure you have the most exciting stay possible with us.

We are lucky to have a central location in England, as this means that we are Successfully just 1-2 hours away from other major cities running Summer and places of interest. Schools in the Cotswolds for UK Excursions over 30 years! Some of the regular trips we arrange include: Bath Bristol Available to Juniors and Adults, Afternoon activities – a number of age- Cardiff GC’s Summer School is an appropriate options, such as cooking, sports, Liverpool Glastonbury experience not to miss. Culturally animation, art, film workshops, dance, drama or exam-focused courses for those intending to London enriching and fun – Summer take IELTS or other English-language exams. Harry Potter Tours Schools at Gloscol are all about Evening activities - for juniors include Oxford learning English, making new bowling and a disco. For adults, activities Manchester friends and experiencing British include cinema or restaurant visits and Alton Towers traditional English pub games. culture. Social Activities

Excursions - there are usually two Cooking classes Our Junior Summer School Programmes excursions per week, one half-day visit locally Departmental lunches (12-16 years) take place at our Cheltenham, and one full-day visit (on Saturdays). Culture celebrations Gloucester and Forest of Dean campuses Student care - Safeguarding (protecting Christmas parties and our Adult Summer School Programme students from harm) and first-aid trained staff (17+) takes place at our Cheltenham campus. ensure that you are well cared-for. As a GC student, you will also be a member What’s included? Full board accommodation - in one of of The Students’ Union, which organise Morning English Language classes - our carefully selected nearby homestay many social activities throughout the year families, with breakfast, packed lunch and for all students to enjoy. Attend the developing skills through various interactive “The people in Cheltenham are so friendly activities in a supportive atmosphere. dinner provided. Freshers’ Fayre or talk to one of the Student Union Reps to take part. and the place is so exciting. I would Prices Please email [email protected] love to visit again” Saya – International Student Further information www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/summer-school/

20 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 21 Accommodation Student Support

We know that studying abroad can be hugely exciting, but also challenging. That is why we offer a range of support services to help you make the most out of this life-changing experience. Our team are there to help you, before you apply and after you have completed your studies.

Before You Arrive Welfare There will be lots that you will need to know Our team are here to help you with any before you travel to GC. Our team will help academic, personal, emotional or medical you with your course selection, application, issues that you may need to deal with. As an visa, accommodation, airport travel International student, you will have access to: arrangements and paying your tuition fees. A Welfare Manager, to look after any concerns such as visa renewals, medical After You Arrive concerns or other matters Induction A Course Tutor, to help with your academic GC’s in-house Accommodation responsibilities and have full background As an international student, you will have a progress Office ensures you are well checks carried out. special induction to make sure you know A Learning Mentor, with timetabled one- cared for and looked after in a Meals and laundry are included in the how to get around and how to receive to-one individual tutorials to discuss health safe and friendly environment homestay fee help when you need it. This will involve the and well-being, coursework, homework following: during your time studying in the Self-catering options are available problems and university applications

Welcome presentation UK. Faith and Religion Meeting your tutors and the Residential GC has a multi-faith prayer room available International team Homestay We can also advise about residential for all students. This is one of the most popular and common accommodation for those who are over Welcome lunch to give you the chance international student accommodation the age of 18, through externally managed to meet the other students and make Moving On options. GC will carefully select a local organisations. For more information new friends Our team are there to help you with your regarding independent living in the UK, homestay host family based on your needs College and town tour next steps, whether that is going back home and requirements. Staying with a local British please refer to the website. or preparing to apply to University. family encourages an enriching experience We can help you complete any official paperwork, register with a doctor, of British culture and is a great way to getting a bus pass, an NUS student practice your English speaking skills. All host card for discounts and setting up a “The tutors were very professional, attentive families registered with GC are visited and bank account and happy to help with anything at all times assessed for suitability, understand their Thank you again.” EFL Student

Prices www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/accommodation Further information please email [email protected]

22 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144 23 Visas

GC is a UK Visas and Immigration Non-visa nationals may require a Short-term How To Apply (UKVI) Tier 4 sponsor of study visa to study longer EFL courses (6 - 11 months). Applying to Gloucestershire College international students. is easy and free! Our dedicated Tier 4 (General) student visa: This is for International Team will help Not ready Citizens of an EU/EAA students who are 16 or over, from outside EU/EAA Citizens: you every step of the way. to apply, but interested? country do not require a visa to study in the UK. the European Economic Area (EEA) and Email Switzerland, and whose UK course is more [email protected] Visa Nationals: Citizens of a ‘visa country’ or than 6 months. The visa is issued for a or fill out our online enquiry ‘visa nationals’ require a visa to study in the UK. form and a member of the particular course. team will get back to you Non-Visa Nationals: A ‘non-visa national’ is a For a Tier 4 visa you will need: as soon as possible. citizen of any country that is not listed. To have been offered a place on a course – Check here: www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa we issue this once your application has Non-visa nationals may not require a visa to visit been approved and you’ve paid the deposit Entry Requirements the UK for a period of up to 6 months. for your course Step 2. Depending on your chosen Proof that you can support yourself and pay We welcome students from all over the world subject, you might be required to have a Getting a visa can take up to six months. for your course - this will vary depending on for our courses. Please see the individual Skype interview with the Course Leader. If we Before applying, you will need to pass an your circumstances course pages for specific entry requirements. are happy with your application, we’ll send English language exam (IELTS). you a course offer. This may be conditional Proof that your current level of English is If you are not from a country where English depending on your forthcoming exam results, Depending on where you are from and how within the Council of Europe Framework is the predominantly spoken language, you or unconditional. long you are coming to study, you might need a Reference (CEFR) B1 Level or above will also need to meet the required English Tier 4 visa if you are studying a course of more Step 3. We’ll require a deposit and carry To meet the eligibility requirements language standards for study, which is a than six months, or a Short-Term Study visa if out necessary checks for proof of funding. minimum IELTS 5.0. your course is less than six months. We will then send you a letter of acceptance Types of Visa to support your visa application. How to Apply Short-term study visa: This is for Visa Step 1. You can apply for your course Step 4. You should aim to have made nationals, 16 years of age or over, who plan via our online application form and send all the necessary applications two months to study in the UK for a period of up to 6 this to [email protected], along before your course is due to start. This months. If your course is an English language with a copy of your passport and current will allow us time to respond, arrange your course (EFL) the short-term study visa can be qualifications. accommodation (if required), for your visa issued for a period of 11 months. application to go through and for you to make travel arrangements. Useful Links www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/how-to-apply/visas-coming-to-the-uk www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/how-to-apply Please note: Always check UK Government webpages as this information is subject to change and www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration Gloucestershire College is not liable for any inaccuracies www.ukcisa.org.uk

24 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students | +44 (0) 1242 532144 25 Travel Checklist

Ready to study at GC? Check out our handy travel checklist to make sure you have everything you will need to start your adventure.

Valid Passport Small umbrella

Visa Toiletries

Cash (UK Pound) Stationary (pens, pencils, notebooks)

Debit or Credit Card (make sure to Journal notify your bank before you leave) Every day clothes Prescription Medication(s) if you take any Smart clothes SIM card Pyjamas Travel Plug Adapter Warm jumpers/hoodies Headphones Laptop and charger Scarf/Hat/Gloves Mobile Warm coat Mobile Charger Light waterproof jacket Camera Comfortable footwear for your excursions USB Cable Smart footwear

Don’t forget that you can find out where to buy anything you’ll need on your town tour.

26 Gloucestershire College International Guide 2018 | Learning That Works. www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students/ | Tel: +44 (0) 345 155 2020 “The teachers were incredibly supportive. I had a wonderful time visiting Gloucestershire College” Natsumi Kabayashi – 21

“The teachers were so kind “I love the lessons, they are really different and patient, they helped us and they are more fun and interesting with everything they could. because the teachers talk to us and Everyone was lovely! give us a lot of different things to do. It would be so great to come The activities and trips are so interesting back here, it was amazing!” and we have seen a lot of cities Xavier Banages – around England. In Cheltenham, I like the Junior Summer School Student centre of the city - it’s really beautiful with lots of shops and places to visit. I also love “I really enjoyed making a the architecture of the area and there are movie and would like to visit lots of parks” Sofia Conte - 19 again – 2 weeks was not enough! I want to come back “The Great Hall where Harry Potter was and make even more friends!” filmed was brilliant! I was so moved and Kurumi Goto - 19 excited to be there” Kanako Kinoe – 19

Gloucestershire College International Princess Elizabeth Way, Cheltenham GL51 7SJ www.gloscol.ac.uk/international-students Tel: +44 (0) 1242 532144