Travel and arrival

Wrexham Glyndŵr University

Advice for international students

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Important information on how Coronavirus will affect your travel and stay

Getting to from within the UK - Travel advice for international students

48 hours before you travel, you will need to provide your journey and contact details to the UK Government. Then, depending on which country you are travelling from, you may have to self- isolate for 14 days when you arrive. The Border Force can issue fines of between £100 and £1,000 to those who break government rules around the completion of passenger locator forms.

Please ensure that the University has a pdf copy of the form for our records. Once completed please send a copy to the international recruitment manager at [email protected]

The UK government's advice on self-isolation and an up-to-date list of exempt countries can be found here: How to self-isolate when you arrive in the UK.

If you are required to self-isolate:

• travel straight to the place where you will be self-isolating • you can use our free airport collection service or public transport

• you must use a face mask and stay 2 metres away from others • once you arrive at your accommodation, you should not have visitors unless they are providing essential care • do not leave your accommodation for 14 days unless absolutely essential

Travel advice with coronavirus (COVID-19)? • Please look at the UK Government information Travel advice: coronavirus (COVID-19) for the most current advice on travelling. • Before you travel to the UK, read the National Health Service (NHS) guidance on how we can all try and stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19): Social distancing: what you need to do. This gives information on when and where you must wear a face mask (for example, on public transport) and how to socially distance. • Airlines require you to wear a facemask while both at the airport and travelling. Although you can purchase face masks at the airport and at most shops, it is a good idea to bring some with you so you can protect yourself and others immediately. • In the UK it is obligatory to wear facemasks while travelling on public transport and in taxis, this includes University transport if you use the airport welcome service.

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Are you required to self-isolate/quarantine on arrival to the UK?

You will most likely be required to travel to self-isolate/quarantine for 14 days on arrival in the UK depending on where you have been living/staying before. Details about how you do this can be found here.

Airport pick up will be available for students who arrive on established days (note that places are limited and priority is given to on campus residents). If you are arriving outside the pickup times you will need to travel directly from your point of entry into the UK to your campus accommodation by the most effective means possible). Details on how to travel are given in following sections.

As a visitor travelling to the UK, you must provide your journey and contact details. You’ll also need to quarantine in the place you’re staying for the first 14 days after you arrive, unless you’re travelling from certain countries or territories who are exempt from having to self-isolate through the use of travel corridors. We would recommend checking on this before travelling as the lists are being regularly updated. Please visit the UK Government for full details of countries that are exempt from these border rules and for full quarantine details.

Accommodation during self-isolation Students who choose to use University accommodation with a 40 week contract will be offered the two weeks self-isolation as a free addition to their contract.. Students who choose to stay in private accommodation will be responsible for arranging their own their own self isolation with no financial help from the University and are advised to contact their landlord or letting agency in advance.

Food/supplies during self-isolation? Access to wifi is important to ensure you can be self-sufficient during your quarantine (and access any classes or online University events) so make sure to discuss this with your landlord prior to moving in.

To ensure you have sufficient supplies to cover you for the initial self-isolation period of two weeks we advise that you bring an internationally accepted credit card and approx. £500 in cash to enable you to use on line platforms to purchase necessary foodstuffs and cleaning materials.

There’s a wide range of shopping options available to you, some options need to be arranged for in advance, whilst other options can be delivered to you within one hour of ordering.

Many students are choosing to pack essential food stuffs to cover the first few days and reduce the amount of clothing they bring. Clothing ca bought at a later date at acceptable prices within the town.

Supermarket chains can facilitate larger deliveries of groceries. However, you will need to book at least a day or two in advance as they can be quite busy. We'd suggest grouping up with your flatmates to minimise costs if this is the option you'd like to choose.

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• TESCO • SAINSBURY'S • ASDA • MORRISONS

If you would like to get your fresh groceries and food on demand, we’d recommend using the services below. They work alongside local supermarkets and convenience stores such as Londis, the Co-op, and Marks & Spencer and charge a relatively small delivery fee.

• Deliveroo • Uber Eats • Just Eat

Alternatively, you might want to consider ordering weekly recipe boxes. These are fresh ingredients to cook your meals for each day of the week. If you wish to take up this option, you’ll also typically need to order it as early as a week in advance. More information on the options available can be found below.

• Hello Fresh - With 21 recipes to choose from every week, each one packed with fresh and seasonal ingredients, there's always something new to bring to your table. • Gousto - Cook up impressive meals from just £2.98 per serving, with all of the flavour and none of the fuss. • Mindful Chef - The UK’s highest approved recipe box, with fresh and local ingredients. • Abel & Cole - Organic, ethical, seasonal and sustainable. Abel & Cole provide lots of meat alternatives and plant-based meals.

What to bring and what NOT to bring. Check what's provided in your accommodation by asking your landlord

What to bring in your hand luggage Non-EEA (European Economic Area) nationals You should bring all your supporting documents in your hand luggage in case you are asked to produce them:

• your passport or national identity card • your Wrexham Glyndŵr University offer letter and/or UCAS confirmation slip • Wrexham Glyndŵr University accommodation confirmation email • IELTS (or equivalent) certificates • bank statement • official financial sponsor letter • translations • any relevant medical certificates showing recent vaccinations • chest x-ray report for TB screening (if you need to be screened - see UKVI information about tuberculosis tests for visa applicants) • the letter that accompanied your visa

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• Make sure you have the original documents kept safely. Do not put them in your suitcase - keep them with you in your hand luggage. • EEA (European Economic Area) nationals • You will need to present the following at a port of entry: • A passport or national identity card • You must also obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in your country of residence before travelling to the UK. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) enables you to qualify for NHS care on the same basis as a UK national.

What not to bring Large items or lots of stuff Don't bring lots of personal belongings. There may be restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring when travelling to the UK.

See below about sending luggage in advance.

Kitchen appliances It is not recommended you bring kitchen appliances such as kettles, toasters or rice cookers as they may not be compatible for use in the UK. Check what your landlord provides.

If you wish to use your own appliances we encourage you to buy them when you're in the UK to make sure they're compatible with our electric sockets. Appliances purchased outside the EU may not be safe to use in the UK because of the higher voltage supply in the UK (230/240V, 50Hz). In the UK, electrical sockets have three rectangular holes for three rectangular plug prongs.

Food and plant produce If you’re travelling from a country within the EU, you can bring any fresh foodstuffs - fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy or other animal products (eg fish, eggs and honey) - into the UK.

When travelling from outside the EU, there are strict rules about bringing food products, plants and plant products back into the UK for your own personal consumption or use. See government guidelines on personal food, plant and animal product imports.

Candles, burners and fairy lights Don't bring anything that could be a fire hazard, e.g. candles or oil burners. If you're in campus accommodation, don't bring mains operated fairy lights, though battery operated lights are okay. You'll be told more about fire regulations on arrival. Smoking It is not permissible to smoke in indoors at public places within the UK (University included). Many private rental contracts also forbid smoking, check your contract.

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Blu-tack/White-tack, tape or glue dots Sticking posters on your walls can leave marks or even remove the paint, and you could be charged if the room needs redecorating when you move out. We advise the purchase and use of noticeboard in your room for your pictures and posters.

Weapons Do not bring anything which could be classed as an offensive weapon, even if it is ornamental. Sending luggage in advance If you are unable to bring all your personal items in your luggage, make sure your belongings arrive after you have checked into your accommodation as there is no space for storing luggage at the University.

If you need to freight or store your belongings, local companies can help:

• Big Padlock • Poplar • Tudor Freight (recommended by UKCISA) • Student Storage Box o York

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TRAVEL

The University address for the main campus is …

Wrexham Glyndwr University Mold Rd, Wrexham LL11 2AW, United Kingdom

View Wrexham Glyndŵr University on Google Maps

By train

Wrexham Glyndŵr University is easily accessible via public transport - the nearest railway stations are: • Wrexham General: Situated next to the University - just a few minutes’ walk to the main campus • Wrexham Central: 10 minutes’ walk from Wrexham Glyndŵr University • Chester: 20 minutes away by car/taxi

There is a train that goes directly to Chester from the airport where you can change for Wrexham General station, which stops outside the University.

Buying train tickets on the day of travel can be very expensive. Some train companies allow you to book in advance at a much cheaper rate and you can self-print your ticket, save it to your phone or collect it at the train station. Find out more on the National Rail website or at the train line.

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By coach/Bus

Local bus services run to the main bus terminal in the Town Centre - which is approx. 10 minutes’ walk from Wrexham Glyndŵr University. National Express coaches and other long- distance services stop at Chester where you can change to a local bus service to Wrexham. Coaches run by companies such as National Express are usually cheaper than trains, but will take significantly longer to reach destinations. Note any restrictions on the amount of baggage you can take with you.

By Car

• From the M56, exit off the motorway at Junction 15 where it joins the M53 to Chester/Wrexham. • From the M53, continue along the A55 and take the exit signposted A483 to Wrexham. • Wrexham Glyndŵr University is located just off Junction 5 of the A483 signposted Wrexham/Mold. • Follow the signs for Wrexham Town Centre and you will see the University on your immediate left. • Satnav users should use the main University postcode (LL11 2AW).

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Travel from airports

Wrexham Glyndŵr University is only a 45-minute car/taxi journey away from both Manchester International and Liverpool John Lennon airports. The University arranges a free Airport Meeting Service from Manchester International Airport for many on campus students at certain designated times. Contact your international officer [email protected] to check availability.

*Please note: The Manchester airport collection service is currently unconfirmed. We are working with Manchester airport to provide a service whilst still following their strict guidelines on social distancing.

Taxi

There are taxi stations at Manchester airport where you can book a taxi direct to Wrexham but these can work out quite expensive (approx. £100).

Taxi firms in Wrexham who you can arrange airport pick up at a cheaper price are:

• Wrexham and Prestige taxis Phone: +44 1978 357777 • Statiion cars Phone: +44 1978 363661 • Apollo-wrexham Phone: +44 01978 26 26 26 • Diamond cars wrexham Phone: +44 01978 351234

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Customised travel directions If you would like to receive customized travel instructions from the airport to your new home, please send an email to [email protected] , with your preferred method of transport, name, student-number, the airport of your arrival, and your new address in Wrexham. Please add your arrival date and time, so we can customize your door-to-door travel instructions accordingly.

Finding your way around Campus

Wrexham Glyndwr University campus map

Arriving Keep in communication with your landlord and ensure they will be present on arrival to hand over keys.

Customised travel directions

If you would like to receive customized travel instructions from the airport to your new home, please send an email to [email protected] , with your preferred method of transport, name, student-number, the airport of your arrival, and your new address in Wrexham. Please add your arrival date and time, so we can customize your door-to-door travel instructions accordingly.

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Arriving in Wrexham Have you... Booked accommodation?

Accommodation must be arranged prior to travelling to the UK. For help, see our accommodation information for international students.

Living in Wrexham Private accommodation in Flats/ Houses

You have decided to move into a flat or house. You will have to sign a tenancy agreement, which is a legal document outlining the terms of your stay. Make sure you fully understand the terms and issues of the contract, and if you do have any doubts talk to your student care advisor who can assist you.

A flat or house is likely the most costly option (if you take utility, transport and other costs into consideration) and you may find it hard to find accommodation that is close to campus. However, many students enjoy the freedom to live where they choose, live with whom they like, and choose the type of place they want to live in. With halls, you don't have this flexibility. if you choose to live off campus you will still be able to take advantage of all the on campus facilities such as the Sports Centre, Students' Union (named NUS Wales Small and Specialist Students’ Union of the Year 2016), health centre, computer labs and library

For more information about student housing and renting accommodation as a student in the UK, read these two articles covering "What you need to know about student renting in the UK" and "What you need to know about student renting in the UK" and "Student Housing Overview for the UK".

When living off campus we strongly advise you to choose properties which are safe, secure and well managed. To help students do this, Wrexham Glyndŵr University’s Residential and Campus Life team maintain an online web register called Student Pad where you can search for suitable properties to rent in and around the Wrexham area.

If you’d like any more information about accommodation at Wrexham Glyndŵr, visit our website.

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Rental Agencies in and around Wrexham

• Belvoir • Beresford adams • Whitegates • Wrexrent • Grow property • Northwood uk • Bowenson and watson

A full list can be found here.. www.rightmove.co.uk/estate-agents/Wrexham-County-of.html

A popular site for finding property.. rightmove.co.uk

Finances (see pre arrival guide for more details) Have you...

• Made any necessary advance payments? For help with payments, see paying the University.

• Ensured that you have sufficient cash or travellers cheques to live for a week or more while you open a UK bank account? In the current Covid situation with 14 day quarantine you should prepare suitably. It is advisable to have a means to electronic payment as you may need to order food and things on line.

Remember that if you're travelling from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and bring more than €10,000 in cash or travellers cheques, you will need to declare the amount at UK customs control. Healthcare (see pre arrival guide for more details) Have you...

• Obtained a full up-to-date vaccination record and any other relevant medical records? If you require medical treatment in the UK, a full up-to-date vaccination record (in English, if possible) will help to get you the best care possible. • Obtained a European Health Insurance Card? (EEA nationals) If you are a European Economic Area national, you must obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in your country of residence before travelling to the UK. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) enables you to qualify for NHS (National Health Service) care on the same basis as a UK national.

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• Checked if you need additional vaccinations and screenings? (Non-EEA students) If you are from outside the European Economic Area (EEA), you may need additional vaccinations and screenings before arriving in the UK as part of your Tier 4 visa application. For more information, see the Gov.uk website. • Arranged medical insurance if it applies to you? You will need to arrange private medical insurance if you haven't paid the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application. This is usually if you're a non-EU student on a Short term Study visa.

Arranged to bring any medication required, as well as a doctor’s letter of explanation? It is important to keep your medication close to you. You may face problems without confirmation of medicinal intent.

We recommend bringing one month's supply of your regular medication to allow time to for you to register with and see a doctor.

Insurance

Have you arranged insurance for your belongings?

If you will be living in University accommodation, you will be able to enjoy our international student accommodation package which includes content insurance.

Living off campus, it is highly advisable to insure your personal belongings. You could arrange travel insurance before you come to the UK or buy contents insurance or student insurance after you arrive. Compare prices from sites such as: MoneySuperMarket and GoCompare.

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Explore Wrexham Glyndŵr University from Home

Visit our Wrexham campus from the comfort of your home and see the installations and classrooms waiting for you when you start your curse.

We've produced a series of interactive 360 images to help you get a feel for our campuses.

Click on the following images to see some of the places on campus that you can expect to spend a lot of your time.

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You can read more about our course-specific facilities here:

• Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology

• Faculty of Social and Life Sciences

• North Wales Business School

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Wrexham

Welcome to Wrexham - Croeso i Wrecsam.

The best of all worlds, city, countryside and coast is vital when choosing somewhere to live… it’s an essential part of deciding where to study.

These days, university life is made-up of a broad range of experiences outside of what you learn in the lecture theatre; how you spend your downtime is also a major part of shaping your memories and experiences.

Wrexham Glyndŵr University is situated in the Welsh town of Wrexham. Wrexham enjoys a very privileged location. Within twenty minutes travel you can lose yourself in the Welsh hills, be fascinated by the Roman remains in Chester or view the rich historical past within . A short drive from Wrexham town centre you can find and enjoy a number of historical sites which remind us of the local way of life over hundreds of years. Add to this excellent road links to North Wales, the North West and beyond and you can understand why Wrexham is a very popular place to visit and stay.

In Wrexham, you’ll discover a hidden gem that’s more than just a market town on the border between Wales and England; you’ll discover the gateway to a region that’s been named by prestigious travel organisation Lonely Planet as one of the best to visit in the entire world (2017).

Take out your phone and search for Wrexham on your maps app, then zoom-out and drink in everything our location and its surroundings have to offer you.

You’ll discover beautiful beaches nearby and rugged mountains, amazing places to eat, places to shop, places to get active, relax and everything in between.

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Our proud land of music, art, song and dance is famous for blending its cultural heritage with the ever changing world around it, as cutting edge industry, ingenuity, creativity and ambition harmonises with the history, passion, talent and values the region and its people live and breathe. You can rest assured that whether you choose to study with us or simply visit, Wrexham and the surrounding region will keep a warm welcome waiting for you time and time again.

Discover more at wgu.ac.uk/yourplace.

Gateway to the region.

We’re in easy travel distance to a host of exciting locations:

• Liverpool: 45 mins • Manchester: 1 hour • Birmingham: 1 hour 30 mins • Dublin: 1 hour (by flight).

Things to do in & near Wrexham.

nightlife. Take a walk through Wrexham town centre and check out the bars and pubs • Dance and sing the night away at nightclubs like ATIK, The Live Rooms and South • Take in a gig or comedy show at the university’s own William

eating out. Hal Fancy eating out. Gastro pubs, restaurants or fast food, Wrexham has it all. • Grab a bite to eat at high street favourites like Pizza Express, Nando’s and Frankie and Benny’s • Visit one of the region’s many independent cafes, bistros and restaurants and try food from around the world

arts & culture. • Discover the area’s rich history in arts and culture at the Wrexham Museum, or locations like Erddig Hall or Castle • Check out an art exhibition at Undegun or Ty Pawb in Wrexham Town Centre • Enjoy shows like the Wrexham Symphony Orchestra at the William Aston Hall.

shopping. • Shops to suit every taste, with major high street favourites throughout Wrexham town centre and nearby Broughton shopping park • If you prefer things a little more quirky, you’ll also discover a host of independent retailers of all shapes and sizes in Wrexham and beyond.

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alt. nights out. • Tenpin Wrexham’s not just about bowling; play pool, table tennis and enjoy some arcade action at Eagles Meadow • Step aboard the steam Railway for events like steampunk festivals, murder mysteries and Oktoberfest, held right on the line’s historic steam trains.

sport. • Watch the Dragons in action by supporting our neighbours at Wrexham AFC • Get extreme on the Llandegla Mountain Bike trail, white water rafting in Llangollen or the Plas Power Climbing Wall in Wrexham • Go yachting at the Flash Boating Lake, or play tennis right on your doorstep at Wrexham Tennis Centre.

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