Student Life

Your Student Handbook

Find everything you need to get you started on your journey! Please download a copy of your Student Handbook so that you can be fully prepared for joining us at ONCAMPUS.  Paris student handbook. UK student handbook. 

Your pre-departure checklist:

Preparing to study abroad can be stressful. Our handy guides provide you with the important information you need to make your journey to your ONCAMPUS centre as simple as possible. Follow our checklist to find out what to bring with you, the tasks you need to complete before you travel and what to expect when you arrive.

What to bring with you:

Aston: Pre-arrival & induction (oncampus.global)

Hull: Pre-arrival & induction (oncampus.global)

London: Pre Arrival & University Inductions | ONCAMPUS London

Loughborough: Pre-arrival (oncampus.global)

LSBU: Pre-arrival (oncampus.global)

Reading: Pre-arrival (oncampus.global)

Southampton: Pre-arrival & induction | ONCAMPUS Southampton

Sunderland: Sunderland University - Pre Arrival & University Inductions | ONCAMPUS

UK North: University Of Central Lancashire - Pre Arrival & University Inductions | ONCAMPUS UCLAN

Money

• Check if your country imposes any restrictions on taking money out of the country
• Make sure you have made any necessary advance payments
• We recommend you bring approximately £200 to £500 in cash. We also advise you to limit the amount of cash you bring into the UK (for security reasons).
• Stay aware of possible financial scams

Clothing

• You should have enough warm clothing for your flight and subsequent journey
• Several layers of lightweight clothes are better than a single shirt or dress
• The UK and Europe rarely have extremely hot or extremely cold weather, but it can be very changeable, so you should be prepared for different types of weather.

Luggage:

• You will usually have a free baggage allowance, which will be shown on your air ticket; this is usually from 20kg with a restricted weight of 32kg per single item of luggage. Only essential personal possessions may be brought in addition to research materials.
• You may be charged for excess baggage if you exceed the baggage allowance, so check with the airline before you leave if you are not sure of your allowance.
• You should make a list of everything you bring.

What not to bring with you

• 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 Europe, the UK or US

Kitchen Appliances

• Do not bring kitchen appliances such as kettles, toasters or rice cookers. If you're living in ONCAMPUS accommodation, you are not permitted to use these in your bedroom. If you're renting private accommodation, check what your landlord provides.
• If you want a rice cooker, we encourage you to buy electrical appliances in Europe, the US or the UK to ensure they're compatible with our electric sockets and check what is permitted by your accommodation provider. Appliances purchased outside of Europe may not be safe to use because of the higher voltage supply.

Restricted Items

• Food and plant produce
• Candles, burners and fairy lights
• Do not bring anything which could be classed as an offensive weapon, even if it is ornamental.

Find out more about banned and restricted items here: https://www.gov.uk/bringing-goods-into-uk-personal-use/banned-and-restricted-goods

Visa information

As an international student planning to take a full-time course in the UK or EU, it is likely you will need to apply for a Student Visa (formerly Tier 4 student visa). You can read our full Visa information here https://www.oncampus.global/uk/visa-information.htm

Visa and immigration rules change frequently, so please make sure you contact your nearest shouldn’t this be British, French or Dutch diplomatic post to get up-to-date information on the visa application process, requirements, fees and supporting documents. We can provide support and guidance if you have any questions, please contact the centre or Immigration Compliance and Advice Team on [email protected]

Healthcare

• Check if you need to have any additional vaccinations or screenings before travelling
• Obtain up-to-date vaccination and medical records (in English if possible)
• Check relevant student healthcare arrangements for your country of travel as to whether private healthcare is required
• Arrange any medication you need to bring with you, including a letter from your doctor explaining the medication you are taking

Accommodation

We know that making the right choice about where to live while you study can make a huge difference to your ONCAMPUS experience. It’s really important that you have accommodation booked before you arrive in your country of study.

Please note it is compulsory for under 18s to book ONCAMPUS approved accommodation.

ONCAMPUS offer an outstanding range of high quality accommodation choices.

Browse our halls of residence, and book online. With a great choice of accommodation, there's a place that's right for you! Please see the accommodation guide for your centre. 

Aston

Hull

London

Loughborough 

LSBU

Reading

Southampton

Sunderland

UK North

Starting a new programme of study in a new country is exciting! We also know it can be a little daunting, with lots to arrange and learn about. We will support you every step of the way.

Even before term starts, you’ll enjoy an excellent induction programme which will help you begin the settling in process. Our expert teams from each centre will be in contact with you, sharing information and helping to make sure you feel supported.

If you have any questions, do message your centre – they’ll be pleased to hear from you and they’re wanting to help.

Your Induction Programme

Our centre teams have designed an induction programme that will provide you with the essential information you need. You will get to know key centre staff and build new friendships, helping you to settle into your new city and to your centre.

The induction programme will help you get to know the wide range of support and guidance available to you. Important topics are covered such as managing your money, practical tips on finding the right study and life balance, local culture and laws and staying safe.

Our Student Charter was developed by students and staff. Read here to find out more about what you can expect from us and what we expect from our students. You can find our student charter here

Here to help

We want you to have a happy, successful time here at ONCAMPUS and we have great support available for you.

Your health and wellbeing is so important. Our specialist Student Wellbeing Teams understand what it’s like to study and live away from home. They are here to help you with any wellbeing issues or worries that you might have.

You can talk to us about anything that’s worrying you. No matter what your question or concern is, there is always someone who can help. You might have concerns about your studies or worries about friendships? Perhaps you’re anxious about living away from home or financial planning? Do you have a disability or mental health problem that you want to share with us?

At any stage of your journey with ONCAMPUS, from application through to starting university, you can connect with your Student Wellbeing Team.

You can share with a team member anything that’s worrying you and if we know about your worries, we will be able to help. Even before you arrive at your centre, support is available for you. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to talk about any of the concerns that you might have. Arrange a meeting with a member of the Wellbeing Team your centre.

Reach out to us, you’re not alone and we’d love to hear from you.

Emotional and mental health support

We can all experience problems from time to time and may benefit from support. In every ONCAMPUS centre there is an experienced Wellbeing Team who can offer you a range of assistance and information. Whether you are looking for support for yourself or a friend, always speak with a member of your centre team if you are finding things difficult.

You don’t have to wait until you arrive at your centre to contact your centre team. If you’re feeling anxious or want to talk about mental health support, it’s a good idea to contact the team when you’ve been offered a place on the course. They will help ensure you have the information and advice you need so that you feel confident when you arrive.

Where to get more support and information:

Charlie Waller Trust’s Guide for International Students https://www.charliewaller.org/media/da2isfza/cwt_transition_to_university_internationalstudents_digital.pdf Mental Health Support as an International Student https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/information--advice/studying--living-in-the-uk/mental-health-support-in-the-uk

Other services that might be of help include:

• Student Minds
•  Student Space

Student support is on hand for your every need at ONCAMPUS, from study advice to student social committees – we can help!

Disability support

We provide advice and support for students with disabilities, including ongoing health conditions and learning difficulties. It is very important that when you apply to ONCAMPUS you let us know if you have a disability. The information you share will help us check that we’re able to provide the support you need – if we don’t have this information, it may be that we will be unable to organise the assistance you require. Please remember to send any supporting evidence you have, as this will also help us to understand your needs.

We know some students feel anxious speaking about a disability but the sooner you tell us, the sooner we can discuss this with you. Your application will be carefully considered and we will make every effort to meet your needs.

Personal care

We are unable to provide you with any personal care. We cannot provide help with washing, cooking or dressing. If you need this support, staff in your centre will be able to provide you with agencies in the local area that can provide this type of service; the cost will need to be factored into your own expenses.

If you have any questions about your support needs, please reach out to your centre. They’ll be pleased to help and will make sure your enquiry reaches the right team member.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

ONCAMPUS welcomes all students. We are proud of our diverse community and are committed to creating an environment where everyone is treated fairly, regardless of gender, gender identity, disability, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or transgender status, age, or nationality.

We believe that all students and staff should be supported to achieve their best in a fully inclusive environment. We value all members of our community and treat every single person with dignity and respect.

We want to ensure that every student can enjoy their ONCAMPUS experience without barriers. We also recognise that students from different backgrounds may struggle with their identity, and where they may have been exposed to discrimination and prejudice. We are committed to ensuring that all students feel represented and able to reach out to us.

We can support you if you feel discriminated against, bullied or harassed. We encourage you to report any incidents, whether you’ve experienced or witnessed them and you will be supported. The Wellbeing Team in your centre can offer you a space to talk about any incident of this nature and provide you with guidance and support.

Religion: practising your faith

As a multi-faith society, students of all religions can expect to feel welcome, along with plenty of opportunities to practise their faith.

Our partner universities have multi-faith chaplaincy services, designed to provide spiritual support to all their students. There are prayer rooms that anyone can use and this is true of most public places, such as hotels, hospitals and airports. Your centre team will help you find out more about this during your induction.

Everybody has the right to be safe, no matter who they are or their circumstances.

ONCAMPUS is committed to ensuring a safe and supportive environment exists for all students, staff and visitors.

What is safeguarding?

Safeguarding is a process of making sure vulnerable children, young people and adults are protected from being abused, neglected or exploited. Anyone aged under 18 in the UK, Europe and US is considered a child. We have a number of students aged under 18 at ONCAMPUS. There are rules which apply to protect children from harm and the consequences of breaking these rules are very serious and will involve the police.

You can find out more about our Safeguarding Policy and Procedures here

Under 18s Support from College Guardians

We partner with the organisation College Guardians to provide additional support for students who are under 18. Each student has personal support from a Guardian until they reach 18. The Guardians are accredited to gold standard by AEGIS, the Association for Education and Guardianship of International Students. Guardians are available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Find out more here: www.oncampus.global/about-us/under-18-support-package.htm

Sexual Misconduct and Harassment

Harassment and sexual misconduct are not tolerated within the ONCAMPUS community

Sexual misconduct is any kind of unwanted sexual activity, which does not always include physical contact

Always remember that NO means NO. Never pressure anyone into anything without their consent – this has very serious consequences and the police will be involved. If at any time you are worried about your own safety or the safety of another student, please speak with a member of staff in your centre and they will make sure you receive the right support

Please go here for more information about the CEG Student Sexual Misconduct Policy and Procedure

Staying safe when you’re out and about.

Our ONCAMPUS cities are vibrant places where you will enjoy great entertainment, culture and dining experiences. However, it is important that we all take steps to stay safe at all times. This is true whatever country you are living in.

We recommend the following basic precautions to look after yourself and your belongings:

· Always lock your doors and windows if you are going out, whether you are in private accommodation or halls of residence. Never leave your room unlocked, even for a short time

· Do not keep cash in your room, or carry large amounts of money with you – keep it in your bank account. If you need to exchange money you should only use reputable providers and banks

· Do not leave valuables on display, particularly if you’re walking in the street or in a park by yourself, including mobile phones and iPads

· Do not leave valuables unattended in public, even at university or in common areas such as computer suites or the library

· You may find it useful to carry some sort of identification with you when you go out. However, you do not need to carry important documents, for example your passport (and BRP for UK students). Instead, keep them safe. It is a good idea to keep photocopies of your passport (and BRP) and other documents separately, in case of loss

· Let friends know where you are going and when you'll be back

· Walk home via well-lit/busier areas – no short-cuts through places like a park

· Stay with friends on a night out – help one another, and do not go home on your own (walking or taxi). Make sure you plan ahead

· Criminals are also targeting international students over the phone, claiming to be organisations such an embassy, the police, or a bank. Be aware of phone fraud scammers and money mules

The police are friendly and helpful. As a visitor, you are entitled to the same service as anyone else. If you are the victim of a crime, report it to the police as soon as possible

One of the most valuable resources that students have during their time at ONCAMPUS is each other. We encourage you to share your experiences and cultures – you’ll be amazed by what you learn! A good way to do this is by making the most of opportunities to build up your support networks through involvement in clubs and societies or activities provided by ONCAMPUS and your university. Shared experiences help you to make lasting connections and friendships whilst having fun at the same time. We know it’s not easy living away from home, being in a new city and studying – there’s a lot to juggle!

Support from a Friend

Friends are often the first person we approach when we are having a difficult time. It’s good when you have someone you can be open and honest with. Do keep in mind that sometimes there are worries we have that a friend might not be able to handle or help with. When this happens, remember that excellent academic and wellbeing support is available in your centre and we encourage you to reach out for this.

Supporting a Friend

If you are supporting a friend through a difficult time, this can impact on your own health and wellbeing. Self-care is important. If at any time you’re finding things hard, you need support and you’re not sure what to do, reach out to your centre team.

Student Minds has provided a guide which will help you to look out for your friends (mates) and yourself. It can be found here: http://studentminds.org.uk/uploads/3/7/8/4/3784584/interactive_laym_guide.pdf

Each ONCAMPUS centre has an excellent team of staff who will make sure you receive the best care and teaching. These people will be very important during your ONCAMPUS journey, in fact, they’re so important that you’ll get to meet some of them before you even arrive in the centre!

Centre Director:

The person in charge of your study centre, very much like the headteacher in a school.

Head of Student Services:

The person who leads the non-teaching team. They organise the wellbeing services, attendance, and compliance teams in your centre.

Head of Teaching and Learning:

The person responsible for teaching in your centre. They lead the academic staff.

Programme Leader:

The person in charge of your subject and subject teachers, for example a Head of Business, Engineering, English etc.

Student Support Officer:

A member of non-academic staff who can provide advice and guidance in a particular area e.g. attendance or welfare

Student Leaders are students who volunteer to represent the views of their course mates with the aim of improving the overall study experience through staff and student communication. They are also known as Student Representatives.

Becoming a Student Leader provides a fantastic opportunity for ONCAMPUS to work together in identifying what is working well, and where changes might be needed. We also encourage students to become Content Creators and work with our Marketing team. All Student Leaders are fully trained and supported by ONCAMPUS staff. You will develop transferrable skills such as communication, organisation and team working which are great for your CV. Information about how to sign up will be provided during your student induction.

When will I receive my timetable?

Your timetable will appear in your student portal at least 24 hours before your first week of teaching. You will receive more information about the student portal and your lessons during Induction, so it is very important you attend all induction sessions.

Study Support

Your academic teachers are your go-to experts about everything to do with your course. They know how every single assignment is assessed and will help you achieve your potential. Your teacher should always be the first person you speak to if you need academic advice.

Learning Resources

As an ONCAMPUS student, you have a variety of learning resources you can access. In centre, we will provide you with lectures, tutorials and other sessions on your academic and English language courses. Teachers may provide you with additional material for you to read in your own time. You will be expected to provide your own laptop (and any required software including Office 365), as this is common practice in universities. Wi-Fi is generally available across university campuses so you will also have access to the internet when you are in centre. You will be expected to purchase your own copies of relevant textbooks, the details of which will be provided by your teachers.

On arrival, you will also receive details of how to access Moodle, our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). You will be able to use Moodle to access course resources and work virtually with peers and teachers to enhance your face-to-face learning.

Please note the resources available to you and what you are required to purchase may vary slightly at each ONCAMPUS centre.

Specific Learning Difficulties

We’re experienced in supporting students with specific learning difficulties. If you have a learning need, please let us know and we can consider what support may be available to you, for example individual exam arrangements. Usually, you and a member of the centre team will meet to discuss your needs. The information you provide is used to inform a Personal Learning Plan. The Plan is a document that outlines the support that ONCAMPUS will put in place to support your studies. The Plan is shared with teaching staff and other relevant staff in your centre. It advises them of any reasonable adjustments or access arrangements they may need to make to support your learning. The Plan is kept under review to make sure that as you progress through the course, you receive appropriate support.

Academic Regulations

These are the rules which apply to your studies as a student of ONCAMPUS.

When you register as a student, you agree to follow these regulations which cover a range of important areas such as:

· Exam regulations

· Academic misconduct policy.

There are more policies within the student regulations and all have an important impact on your programme of study. The policies will be available in your Programme Handbook and can be accessed on Moodle (our Virtual Learning Environment) when you arrive.

Employability is a key element in the design of every ONCAMPUS programme. During your programme of study, we will help you develop the skills you need to find and succeed in your future career.

Developing your Skills

The skills which employers want and need include:

· Communication

· Presenting

· Problem solving

· Negotiating

· Influencing

· Leadership

· Time management

· Team working

· Action planning

· Decision making

· Analysis.

During your studies you will also develop increased self-awareness and confidence, giving you the qualities needed to thrive at university and in the world of work.

You will have the opportunity to get involved in lots of great activities offered by ONCAMPUS and your chosen university, for example guest lectures and workshops by university academics and key industry figures.

What about part time work?

Many international students work part-time during their studies (if their visa allows) to develop new skills and gain valuable work experience. Working can help you to earn extra money, but you should not rely on part-time work to pay your tuition fees or accommodation.

In the UK, you will receive something called a BRP card when you arrive. This card will confirm if your visa allows you to work. If you are allowed to work, you will normally be able to work for up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time outside term time. You must not work more than this, otherwise you will be committing a criminal offence. This could have serious consequences, including a possible fine, imprisonment or removal from the UK.

Before committing to any work during the holidays, you must check the official ONCAMPUS term dates.

We suggest that you don’t work more than 10 to 12 hours per week while studying.