international student handbook - City College Brighton and Hove
Transcription
international student handbook - City College Brighton and Hove
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK www.ccb.ac.uk Contents Welcome I’d like to wish you a very warm welcome to City College Brighton and Hove. Having been graded ‘Outstanding’ in key areas by Ofsted and with our success rates making us one of the top Colleges in the country, this is an exciting time for the College and I can promise you an excellent learning experience. We’ve got fantastic staff who are committed to helping you achieve and we’ll make sure that you get whatever support you need to reach your goals. I hope you’ll enjoy settling into life at the College and I’m sure it won’t be long before you feel very much part of our friendly and vibrant community. Lynn Thackway, Principal Contents Welcome.................................1 Keeping In Touch With Home.............................14 Personal Details......................4 Personal Safety.....................16 INternational Team................5 Feeling Safe at the Maps of College Buildings....6 College..................................18 The City of Brighton Fire Safety..............................18 and Hove.................................8 Equality and Diversity..........18 Where is Brighton and Hove?.......................................9 Bullying...................................20 Travelling Within The UK.......10 E-Safety..................................22 Culture Shock.......................12 Student Information.............24 Our Mission: Our Core Values: City College will work in partnership to deliver high quality education and training for today’s and tomorrow’s workforce. Achieve A place where people enjoy achieving together Our Vision: To be an outstanding centre for education and training. Feedback and Complaints............................26 Expectations of Behaviour..............................28 Misconduct Procedure.......30 Absence Policy.....................32 Making The Most Of Your Visit.................................34 Helpful Websites...................36 Useful Apps............................37 The International Team’s Guide To Brighton.................38 Religion..................................46 Opportunity Creating opportunities to achieve Believe We believe we will achieve high standards Respect Celebrate differences respect individuals Lynn Thackway, Principal Support Learning & supporting students is at the heart of everything we do Creativity We applaud creativity, innovation and responsiveness Teamwork Achieving results through teamwork EMERGENCY CONTACT In the event of an emergency please contact our dedicated helpline: +44 (0) 7771 771160 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Team Personal Details Name Address Telephone Number Email INternational Team Course Course Code Emergency Contact Person Code You will be given your student ID card when you enrol. You must wear this at all times whilst you are on college premises. You must show this card if you are asked to do so by a member of staff. HELEN KELLAR JO COHEN International Manager Academic Co-Ordinator See for: See for: •Course advice •Course advice •Complaints •English enquiries •Issues with staff •Issues with staff •Visa information •Attendance GIULIA SAMONATI Paul Fawcett International Student Officer International Project Officer See for: See for: •Course advice •Course advice •Accommodation •Group schedules •Welfare support •Group classrooms •Admissions •Social activities •Visa information •Social activities Do feel free to come into the International Office for a chat, if you are missing home or just to tell us what a great time you are having at City College! Paul Fawcett, International Project Officer 4 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Map Maps of College Buildings Central Campus Pelham Tower Pelham Street Brighton BN1 4FA The resident population of Brighton and Hove is estimated to be over 250,000 source: State of the City Report Summary, Brighton & Hove City Council Telephone: 01273 667788 Fax: 01273 667703 Email: [email protected] Brighton Racecourse East Campus Wilson Avenue, Brighton BN2 5PB Telephone: 01273 667788 Fax: 01273 667703 Email: [email protected] Brighton Marina 6 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Brighton and Hove The City of Brighton and Hove Welcome to the City of Brighton and Hove, one of Europe’s most vibrant locations and famous for its elegant historic architecture, exciting nightlife and varied arts and cultural scene. This beautiful seaside city is friendly, free-spirited and fun and often described as “Little London by the sea”, but unlike the UK’s capital, it is stress-free and easy to walk around. The arts are part of everyday life and you will see art and sculpture on the streets and seafront with galleries showing work by new and more established artists. There’s an enormous choice of cafes, restaurants and shops to suit all tastes or you can quickly escape to the countryside which is easily accessible by car, bus or train. The lively city of Brighton and Hove is an ideal place for international students and teachers, with two universities and many language schools. Brighton is less than an hour to London by train, 30 minutes from London Gatwick Airport and easy access to mainland Europe by ferry from Newhaven. Brighton and Hove is a great place to live and study. With its vibrant, diverse and easy-going atmosphere, you can have a good time here without even trying! Where is Brighton and Hove? Landmarks The beach is where people go to relax and meet up with friends, especially when the sun is shining, and the newly developed seafront has plenty of restaurants and cafes, and even open air basketball and volleyball courts and children’s play areas. Brighton Pier attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. It is the second busiest free tourist attraction in the country with the biggest funfair on the South Coast. Visitors love the traditional English seaside food and amusements arcades. The Brighton Pavilion was remodelled in Indian style by John Nash (1815-1825) for George Prince Regent and later George IV. The Pavilion houses special events throughout the year, such as art installations, Christmas markets and an ice rink during the winter months. Edinburgh Manchester Scotland’s beautiful capital city. 8 hours by train 1 hour flight from Gatwick International airport and cultural city. 5 hours by train 30 min flight London Heathrow Airport The UK’s premier International airport. 1hr 55 mins by train The world’s greatest capital city is within easy reach of Brighton. Offering music, theatre, arts and history. 50 mins by train Gatwick Airport The UK’s second largest International airport. 30 mins by train Brighton & Hove 8 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Travelling Travelling Within The UK City College Brighton and Hove has its own travel agency, City Travel, which is located on the second floor of Pelham Tower, next to the library. Trains: You can find out information about train times and fares by calling National Rail enquiries on 08457 484950 or by visiting their website: www.nationalrail.co.uk Coaches: National Express Coaches and Mega Bus both operate coaches from Pool Valley Bus station in Brighton. Coaches are cheaper than trains, but the journey is usually longer. For more information check out www.nationalexpress.com or uk.megabus.com Local Transport: Brighton and Hove has a good bus transport system with regular buses. For further information visit their website www.buses.co.uk or call 01273 886200. Brighton has a frequent 24-hour bus service, but for most Brighton is a small compact city easy to get across on foot. source: State of the City Report Summary, Brighton & Hove City Council Taxis: Taxis in Brighton and Hove are coloured white and turquoise. There is a sign on the roof saying “TAXI”. These can be found in ranks throughout the city, or can be hailed by raising your hand if the Taxi sign is illuminated. We strongly advise you not to enter any “minicab” car which does not fit this description, as it is not licensed and therefore less safe. You can also order a taxi by phone (01273 202020) and requesting that a taxi pick you up at particular time. During your stay in the UK always keep a photocopy of the page in your passport showing your personal details and your visa if you have one. If you need to register with the police, also keep a copy of your police registration certificate somewhere safe. 10 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Culture Culture Shock When you arrive in a different culture, you may experience culture shock. We understand that you will have been separated from the important people in your life and are in a new environment, speaking a different language. Culture shock is not usually sudden, but comes as the period of excitement at arriving in a new country fades. Differences may start to frustrate you and you may feel confused and isolated. Symptoms you may experience are sleep loss, appetite loss, lack of concentration and fatigue. This is a difficult phase for new students but please remember that it is usually temporary and other students may be feeling the same, so you are not alone! Please go to www.ukcisa.org.uk to find out more about culture shock. There’s a really good support system at City College so you’re able to focus on your learning in a safe and happy environment. Mustafa // Turkey Each May the city hosts the Brighton Festival, the second largest arts festival in the UK. source: State of the City Report Summary, Brighton & Hove City Council How can I cope with culture shock? •Keep in touch with home •Have some familiar things around you •Cook some familiar food •Talk to the International Team, who will listen sympathetically •Understanding that culture shock is normal and that it is just a process of adapting to a new environment helps •Take part in activities around Brighton and Hove •Make friends with other international students and students from your own country who are likely to experience culture shock. Try to make friends with UK students so that you can learn about each other’s cultures. We run social activities so that you can make friends with other students •You may wish to go to a place of worship 12 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international KeEping in Touch Keeping In Touch With PEOPLE AT Home Post Offices Email Telephone Post offices are generally open from 09.00 - 17.30 from Monday to Friday, 09.00 -12.30 on Saturday and closed on Sunday. There are 2 types of mail for UK: first class, which should take 1 day to arrive and is more expensive and second class, which should take 2 or 3 days to arrive. The Royal Mail has various options for sending items overseas, so ask at your post office about the best way to send. There is a post office at 94/101 London Road. When you have enrolled, you will be given a username and password. You will then have free access to the internet at college, so you will be able to email freely using computers in the library. Public telephones can be found in most public places. There is a public telephone on the ground floor of the college. Most public phones will accept coins, although it is much cheaper to phone overseas using an international telephone card, sold at most newsagents and post offices. The rates are normally displayed on posters. Different cards are cheaper for different countries, so check before you buy what the rate is to your country. If you need help making a call, dial 100 for the operator. I made friends with other international students and also UK students who introduced me to their culture. I really like Brighton in general because of the variety of culture, restaurants, pubs, clubs and the fact that it felt like a safe environment to live in. Giles // Cameroon To make international calls, dial 00 followed by the country code and then the number (usually omitting the first 0 of your number). Mobile Phones Mobile phones are very common in the UK. If you have a mobile phone an international sim card can be one of the best ways to cut your roaming costs and international calling expenses. To do this, you need to check that your phone is: •Tri or Quad Band Mobile Phone (most phones today are) •Unlocked (not tied to a specific network) There are several shops nearby the College that can help you with this, such as: Mobile Phone Centre 77 London Road, Brighton, BN1 4JF 01273 606242 If you meet these basic guidelines, you can keep your current mobile phone and simply change the SIM card in the back. It will instantly give you a local number, lower cost calls and you will totally avoid all roaming charges that are traditional when you use your phone abroad. Carphone Warehouse Ltd Churchill Square, Brighton, BN1 2TD 0870 168 2200 Phones 4 U 62 North Street, Brighton, BN1 1SQ 01273 773415. 14 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Safety Personal Safety Brighton is a relatively safe city, but as in the case with all cities, some people may experience problems. If you go out at night, you should try not to be alone and always take precautions: •Try to find routes that are well-lit and busy •Walk on the pavements and when crossing the street, remember that vehicles travel on the left hand side of the road •Avoid putting yourself at risk by taking shortcuts through parks or alleyways •Don’t carry large amounts of cash •Always carry enough change and/or amobile phone to make a call or take a taxi if you need one •If you feel that you are being followed, move to a public area, such as a restaurant or bar, and telephone for help •Don’t accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended •Be aware of others around you at cash point machines and try not to use them in badly lit areas. Try to go to the cash point with a friend Laws in the UK •Have your keys ready before you reach the door of your car or home •Carry your bag close to you, but if someone grabs your bag, let it go. Your safety is more important •When travelling by bus, sit downstairs where the driver and other passengers can see you •In an emergency, dial 999 •The police in this country are generally approachable and friendly. They will be happy to help you Each year around 35,000 international students come to Brighton to study English, some stay for a few weeks, some for more than a year. source: State of the City Report Summary, Brighton & Hove City Council •You must not carry drugs with you unless they have been prescribed by a doctor. You must not use any illegal drugs including cannabis, ecstasy, LSD or amphetamines •It is illegal to carry any sort of weapon including knives •You must be over 18 to buy tobacco oralcohol. You may be asked for ID if you want to buy these products If you have any problems in College or outside of College, the staff are always there to listen and help. Elham // Iran In an emergency, dial 999 16 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Feeling Safe in the College Feeling Safe in the College Fire Safety On discovering a fire: •Sound the nearest fire alarm and leave the building immediately •Go to the appropriate assembly area in the car park. On the way inform the Duty Caretaker of the location of the fire On hearing the fire alarm: •Look at the Fire Evacuation Symbols in your classroom: •Follow emergency exit signs to the appropriate assembly area in the car park. Please stand under the sign with the same symbol as the one in your classroom Equality and Diversity We believe that the College and our courses should be open, accessible and welcoming to people from all backgrounds, and we will work to create an environment where everyone feels safe, respected and listened to. Any discrimination towards individuals or groups of people is unacceptable and will be directly challenged. We have an Equality and Diversity Policy to ensure that no existing or potential student receives less favourable treatment than any other on the grounds of race, sexuality, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, gender, age, marital status, religion or socioeconomic circumstances. •Do not stop to collect personal belongings •Do not use the lifts •Do not re-enter the building until authorised The tutors were very enthusiastic and there was plenty of support. Leticia // Brazil 18 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Feeling Safe in the College Bullying What is bullying? What do I do Bullying is the act of being aggressive if I am a victim and behaving in inappropriate ways, or witness hurting other people physically or of bullying? emotionally. Bullying can take place in different ways. Here are some examples: •Physical bullying: pushing, kicking, hitting, punching •Verbal bullying: name-calling, laughing at someone, making nasty comments, mocking, spreading lies about someone •Emotional bullying: being unfriendly, excluding someone from social groups, making someone feel unhappy, forcing someone to do something they don’t want to do, embarrassing someone in public •Cyberbullying: bullying that takes place online, through texts or social media, for example sending threatening messages, circulating inappropriate photos, telling lies about someone Bullying may happen to an individual because of their race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age or any personal characteristic of the person. You are entitled to be in the college and learn free from harassment, threats and intimidation. If you think you (or someone you know) are being bullied, take action! •Talk to the International Student Officer or a member of the International team •Text 07624 802762 starting your message with CCBHSTOPIT •Use the STOPIT button on the Moodle homepage We will take seriously any incidents you tell us about. We will listen and take action. We will also support you in dealing with the person responsible for bullying. What happens to anyone accused of bullying? If a student reports a bullying incident a member of staff will conduct an investigation. This will involve talking to all people concerned, including staff and other witnesses. The action we take will depend on the seriousness of the incident, the reactions of the people involved and the wishes of the victim. In serious cases students may be excluded from College. Any action will be taken following our Disciplinary procedure for managing students’ behaviour. Any action involving staff members will be handled in accordance with the City College disciplinary procedure. It’s a good college to come to because you’ve got all the resources that you need and if you ever need any support, it’s available to you. Jamila // Bangladesh If you wish to read more about this topic, ask a member of the International team for a copy of City College student policy on bullying and harassment. Any form of bullying is absolutely unacceptable and will not be tolerated 20 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Feeling Safe in the College E-Safety Our computers, online resources and networks are a great source of information that we want you to use to help with your studies. We expect all our students to use these resources responsibly and safely. •Do not leave your computer unlocked when you leave a room, or let others use it when you are logged in We make every effort to ensure you stay safe when using our technology, but we ask that you: •Think very carefully about who can see any content you post online before you do so. Would you be happy for strangers, parents or possible future employers to see it? •Report any online abuse, bullying, racism or harassment you experience or are aware of. Use the STOP IT button, or tell the International Student Officer •Never tell anyone your password (including IT staff) •Do not put personal information on public sites, forums or blogs •Do not give your home or mobile phone number to people you do not know •Do not become ‘friends’ with people on social networking sites that you do not know •Do not open email attachments if you do not trust the sender •Do not take or copy content (including images) from the internet unless the site says you can do so •Remember that people online may not be who they say they are. Online ‘friends’ are really strangers, no matter how many times you have chatted with them, unless you know and trust them in the ‘offline world’ •Have a secure password (use numbers, letters and symbols) The course helped make me more confident. Minako // Japan 22 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Information Student Information Studying at City College Learning Resource Centre The study methods here at City College may be different from those you are used to in your home country. Many courses are assessed by written assignment and you may also need to do oral presentations. You may need to work in small groups to produce a piece of work. A very useful source of information about the study methods in the UK can be found at www.ukcisa.org.uk and we would recommend that you read this so that you know what to expect. The Learning Resource Centre (LRC) contains materials and information relevant to all courses taught at the College. There are over 35,000 books, over 300 current periodicals, over 2,000 DVDs and videos and a collection of music CDs. There are 46 computers which have internet access, Microsoft applications, electronic resources, e-books and access to Moodle, the College’s Virtual Learning Environment. There are colour and black and white printers, as well as two high quality photocopiers. To use the computers and photocopiers you will need a username and password which will be issued to you when you enrol. Your course tutor should provide you with an induction on how to use the computer services at the College. LRC users have access to video, DVD and audio playback. There is also access to a wealth of streamed media via the College’s intranet. Accommodation also includes Group Study Rooms and a Silent Study Area, as well as informal seating near to the fiction and the current magazines. All students studying part-time and full-time courses are entitled to join the LRC and receive the full range of services. It may take a while to get accustomed to the English accent, especially if you have learned American English previously. You can listen to voices at the following website: www.bbc.co.uk The relationship between students and their tutors may be less formal than in your home country, but most international students appreciate the help and support they are able to receive from their tutors. You will be given your Library card when you enrol on your course. Your Library account will be active from the following morning and you’ll be able to start borrowing materials and using the facilities immediately. Data Protection The College keeps records about students to make it possible for tutors and other staff to monitor progress. All data is kept and used according to the relevant Data Protection legislation. If you have concerns about how your personal data is used and stored, or wish to exercise your rights under the Data Protection Act, please write to the Clerk of the Corporation, City College Brighton and Hove, Pelham Street, Brighton. Such wonderful facilities and in such a brilliant city! Marta // Spain Learning Resource Centre Opening Times Term-time opening hours: 8.45 - 6.00pm Monday 8.45am - 8.00pm Tuesday to Thursday 8.45am - 5.00pm Friday Vacation hours: Please check notice boards for details. 24 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Feedback Feedback and Complaints City College welcomes all feedback from students about their time at the college. If you are unhappy with any of the services we provide, please let us know as soon as possible. This way we can use your comments to improve future students’ experience. If you wish to make a complaint, please write to the International Manager ([email protected]). She will respond to your complaint quickly and arrange a meeting to discuss your feedback. If you are unhappy with the decision and wish to make a formal complaint you can do so by writing to: Leadership Office, City College Brighton and Hove, Pelham Street, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4FA Complaints will also be accepted by email. The email address is [email protected] The Quality Team will ensure that a complaint is logged and sent to the She will ensure that your complaint most appropriate member of staff is handled effectively, fairly and with for investigation. This will normally sensitivity towards all people involved. be a member of the College Management Team. Please note that the Quality Team will not be involved in the investigation. They will only be able to answer questions about which stage a complaint has reached or which member of staff is responsible for the investigation. You should expect to receive a written response within 15 working days of the College receiving your formal complaint. If for any reason the College is unable to meet this timescale, then we will inform you of this in writing and advise you of a revised response time. My teachers are perfect, they are very organised and prepare all lessons. They have got good ideas and are very creative to make activities. I’m very motivated and very glad with my teachers. Noemi // Spain 26 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Behaviour Expectations Of Behaviour We have high expectations of how our students will behave in college. These expectations are for all students and apply not just in the classrooms but in all areas of the college, for example the LRC, refectory and corridors. This is so that everyone has the opportunity to learn, to do the best they can and to feel safe and supported. Any member of staff can challenge your behaviour and ask you to identify yourself by showing your college ID card. Respect for Learning Respect Each Other This means that you: This means that you: •Attend all your classes •Are polite and do not use language that can offend others Here are our expectations of your behaviour: •Co-operate and communicate with your teachers and other students •Arrive before the lesson starts, ready tostart on time and with the right equipment •Will never be violent, aggressive or intimidate others •Meet deadlines set for your course work •Will not bully or discriminate against others •Take an active role in the class without disrupting lessons •Listen to your teacher and other students and allow others to take part •Follow the class rules agreed with your teacher •Have your mobile phone off or on silent •Only bring water into class - no other drinks or food should be consumed in class •Only take on outside work or commitments if they do not have a negative affect on your studies •Look after the College environment and equipment •You do not have to accept behaviour (in or outside the classroom) that makes you feel uncomfortable or stops you learning You will receive useful and regular feedback about your progress and be set challenging targets to improve. Responsibilities Rights This means that you: This means that you can expect that: •Do the best you possibly can, in your class and in your college work •Your classes will be well prepared, start on time and all students will have the opportunity to learn •Set yourself high targets and tough challenges – believe in yourself •Meet our standards, expectations and follow the agreed rules •Take responsibility for what you do and say •Find out about the facilities and services and opportunities the college has to offer •Take up opportunities that are offered •Ask for help if you need it, take help when it is offered •You will receive useful and regular feedback about your progress and be set challenging targets to improve •You will be treated politely, with respect and in a way that recognises and values your differences and achievements •Any poor behaviour, in or out of the classroom, that affects your learning will be challenged and dealt with •Be proud of yourself and encourage and support others •You will receive positive encouragement and support to achieve your best •Learn from mistakes and use them to improve •You will be listened to and that the college will act on what you tell us •Always carry your college ID card and show it when asked by a member of college staff •You will have a wide range of opportunities to try new experiences and learn new skills If you fail to meet the above expectations of behaviour you will go through our misconduct procedure. 28 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Misconduct Misconduct Procedure The Expectations of Student Behaviour set out the standards we expect of you. If you don’t follow these guidelines we have a process for managing your behaviour. It will give you the chance to correct or change the way you are acting. There are three stages to the process. The information below details each stage with examples of misconduct. These are just examples; please note that we will consider every case of misbehaviour individually. If you have a learning difficulty or disability that directly affects your behaviour, then this will be taken into account. Stage 1: FORMAL WARNING given to you by any tutor or college manager Minor misbehaviour •Behaviour that is disruptive to teaching and which affects your learning and that of others Stage 2: FORMAL REVIEW a meeting with your tutor or Team Leader to discuss your behaviour Stage 3: FORMAL HEARING / INVESTIGATION with the Director of the curriculum area Serious Misconduct Major Misconduct •No change in behaviour following warning •Highly offensive language or behaviour (including bullying and cyber-bullying) especially if of a racist, homophobic or sexist nature or an intolerance towards people with disabilities •Not following reasonable instructions •Use of language or behaviour that offends others •Using mobile phones or iPods in class •Breach of the IT Acceptable Use Agreement including inappropriate messages or images or misuse of social network sites •Chatting and not listening •Low level swearing Outcome: Up to 3 formal warnings then you move to Stage 2. •Minor damage to equipment/ buildings/others’ property •Being at the college under influence of alcohol or drugs •Inappropriate behaviour on a college trip or event •Breach of College health and safety regulations •Refusal to follow reasonable instructions by a member of staff Outcome: An action plan which you sign to agree how you will change your behaviour. If no change then you move to Stage 3. •Serious breach of the college IT Acceptable Use Policy including cyber-bullying, offensive messages or images or breach of computer network security •Violence or serious threats of violence to staff or students or members of the public related to the College’s business •Taking or selling drugs •Theft from a student, member of staff or of college property •Causing a serious risk to staff, student or their own health and safety •Carrying or using an offensive weapon or threatening to do so •Actions which seriously affect the reputation of the College and bring it into disrepute Outcome: An action plan for change. Recommendation for exclusion from the College. At each stage you will be asked how you are going to change your behaviour with an action plan which you agree to. If your behaviour does not improve then you may move through the stages and finally be asked to leave the College. This process will be applied fairly, consistently and start from the beginning of your course. 30 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Absence Policy Absence Policy You are expected to attend 100% of your classes and tutorials and to arrive before the start of the lesson properly equipped and prepared. You must inform the International Office as soon as possible if you have genuine reasons for lateness or absence. You must tell someone in the International Office, NOT your teacher. You can inform the International Office of your absence in these ways: •In person: come to see us in room PT2.12 Authorised absences may include: Unauthorised absences include: If you are sick: •Sickness supported by a medical certificate or doctor’s letter •Any holiday taken during term time •If you are sick on the day of your lesson you must inform the International Office at least 30 minutes before the start of the lesson by phone or email •Unavoidable medical appointments •Court appearances •Appointments with government or voluntary organisations •Funerals •Personal/social reasons for not attending college •Lateness for no good reason •Sickness not supported by a medical certificate If your absence is unauthorised it will affect your attendance. •Religious holidays If your absence is authorised it will not affect your attendance. •By phone: call us on 01273 667752 •By email: write to [email protected] or [email protected] Try to keep appointments out of College hours where possible and ensure you do not take on any other commitments that clash with time at college. We can authorise your absence only if: •It is agreed in advance with a member of the International Office •Every attempt has been made to schedule external appointments at non-college time 32 You must inform the International Office as soon as possible if you have genuine reasons for lateness or absence. •If you are sick for more than one day you must inform us every day that you are missing class •If you are sick for 3 days or more you must provide a doctor’s certificate If you inform us of your sickness less than 30 minutes before the start of your lesson the absence will be unauthorised and will affect your attendance. Absences due to sickness will only be authorised at discretion of the International Office. If we believe your sickness is not genuine we reserve the right to mark your absence as unauthorised. If your attendance is bad: If your attendance falls below 85%, if you are regularly late or if we notice a pattern in your absence or lateness you will have go through our warning procedure: During every meeting you will agree an action plan to improve your behaviour. The Academic Co-ordinator will also arrange a review meeting to follow-up on your action plan. Type of Warning Member of Staff If your behaviour does not improve and you continue to be absent or late you may be excluded from the college and no refund will be given. Initial verbal warning Your tutor, International Academic Co-ordinator The International Office can, in exceptional circumstances, make special arrangements for students with specific needs. First written warning International Academic Co-ordinator This must be agreed in writing at the beginning of the course. Second written warning International Manager, International Academic Co-ordinator IF YOUR ATTENDANCE AT THE END OF THE COURSE IS LESS THAN 80% YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE If you are late: •We expect all our students to be in class on time •If you arrive 30 minutes after the lesson has started you will not be allowed into class and will be asked to return after the break •You will be marked absent for that lesson www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Your Visit Making The Most Of Your Visit We hope that you will have an enjoyable and rewarding experience whilst you are here. We have put together some information which we hope you will find useful and will help you settle in here in Brighton. Please remember that we are here to help you and if you ever need any assistance we are happy to talk to you in the International Office located on the 2nd floor in Pelham Tower, Room PT2.12. Cinemas Theatres Odeon Cinema West St Brighton, BN1 2RE 0871 224 4007 Brighton Dome 29 New Road, Brighton, BN1 1UG 01273 709709 UCG Cineworld Cinema Brighton Marina, Brighton, BN2 5UF Theatre Royal 35 Bond St, Brighton, BN1 1SD 01273 328488 Important numbers Dukes at Komedia 44-47 Gardner Street, North Laine, Brighton, BN1 1UN Helen Kellar International Manager 01273 667788 ext 571 Jo Cohen International & Academic Studies Co-ordinator 01273 667788 ext 2584 Giulia Samonati International Student Officer 01273 667752 Paul Fawcett International Project Officer 01273 667788 ext 422 Duke of York Cinema - Independent Cinema Preston Circus, Brighton, BN1 4NA 0870 755 1228 Brighton has about 400 restaurants, more per head than anywhere else outside London. source: State of the City Report Summary, Brighton & Hove City Council The history of this beautiful Grade II listed building dates back almost 200 years. The Prince of Wales gave his Royal Assent for the building of a Theatre on the New Road site in the summer of 1806. Following this the Theatre in its original format was built in an unprecedented 10 months and first opened its doors to the public on Saturday June 27th 1807 with a performance of Hamlet starring Charles Kemble of Drury Lane. Komedia Brighton 44 Gardner Street, North Laine, Brighton, BN1 1UN 01273 647100 Libraries The Brighton Centre Kings Road, Brighton, BN1 2GR 01273 290131 Public Library Brighton is very lucky to have a well resourced, modern library. Moreover, it is only 5 minutes’ walk from the College: Concorde 2 Madeira Dr, Brighton, BN2 1EN 01273 673311 Brighton’s premier live entertainment venue presents one of the largest, most diverse arts and entertainment programmes in the UK. To find out more about live music in Brighton, see www.whatson.brighton.co.uk Brighton Dome With three historic spaces under one roof – the concert hall, the Corn Exchange and the Pavilion Theatre – Brighton Dome is one of the most versatile and stylish venues in the south. Built for the Prince of Wales (later to become George IV) and steeped in Regency history, it is part of the glorious Royal Pavilion Estate. 34 Live Music Jubilee Library Jubilee Street, Brighton, BN1 1GE You can borrow books, DVDs and music CDs, audiobooks, graphic novels and use the IT centre. Opening times are: Monday 10.00am - 7.00pm Tuesday 10.00am - 7.00pm Wednesday 10.00am - 5.00pm Thursday 10.00am - 8.00pm Friday 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm Sunday 11.00am - 4.00pm www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Helpful Websites Helpful Websites Here are some useful websites to help you make the most of your time in Brighton: www.visitbrighton.com - The official tourism guide to Brighton www.welovebrighton.com - For events, local reviews, listings, offers and competitions www.brightonsource.co.uk - For events and music listings www.theargus.co.uk - The local newspaper www.nationalrail.co.uk - For train times and prices www.buses.co.uk - For bus timetables and live departure information There are over 450 different sports clubs and groups in the city from hang gliding to windsurfing - get involved! source: State of the City Report Summary, Brighton & Hove City Council Useful Apps Brighton and Hove Buses Look up live departures, timetables and journey information within Brighton and Hove. Brighton Official Visitor App Yell The Trainline Your guide to local businesses such as taxis, restaurants, fast food and shopping. Including maps, reviews, opening hours and images. This app will give you information and prices for train journeys as well as departure and arrival times on scheduled trains, as well as live information on trains across the UK. London Tube With this app you can navigate your way around London on the Tube. This app contains: Food & Drink, What’s On, Attractions, Museums, Shopping and Tourist Information. 36 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Guide to Brighton The International Team’s Guide To Brighton Favourite Restaurant For a tasty, healthy feast I like Foodilic, an all you can eat buffet on Western Road. I’m a vegetarian and there is a lot to choose from but the restaurant also caters for meat eaters. Helen Kellar, International Manager Favourite thing about living in Brighton Having the sea on my doorstep, being surrounded by countryside but with all the buzz of a cosmopolitan city. Favourite Bar During the summer months you can’t beat the Fortune of War on Brighton seafront. You can enjoy a drink in the sun on the beachfront or if it’s stormy then go inside and the wood panelled walls and ropes make you feel like you’re in a boat. For a Sunday roast I recommend the Lion and Lobster on Sillwood Street, a cosy atmosphere with plenty of space for groups and on Sunday evening they have live jazz music. Favourite Night Club/Live Music Throughout May the streets come alive with the Brighton Festival and on every corner you’ll find a musician, busker and performer playing to passers-by and it’s all free! Favourite thing to do on a rainy day Go to see a film at the Dukes in the Komedia – a great little cinema in the heart of the North Laine. Favourite place in the UK A difficult question! I love the raw, wild nature of Scotland and the sandy beaches of Devon and Cornwall but in my opinion there’s nowhere quite like Sussex. Quaint villages, vibrant Brighton, the rolling hills of the South Downs and the sea, and all within reach of London. Favourite Event Apple Day at Middle Farm - live music, a country fayre, fresh farm food and lots of apples! Just outside Lewes in October. Favourite activity around Brighton Exploring the city and the surrounding countryside by bike – from seafront cyclepaths to forest trails, the best way to get around is by bike! 38 In my opinion there’s nowhere quite like Sussex. Quaint villages, vibrant Brighton, the rolling hills of the South Downs and the sea and all within reach of London. Helen kellar, international manager www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Guide to Brighton Favourite activity around Brighton I like to walk in the South Downs National Park. It is the perfect way to blow away the cobwebs and there’s a huge array of scenery right on Brighton’s doorstep, from dramatic cliffs and valleys to tiny market villages. Favourite Bar Paul FAwcett, International Project Officer Favourite thing about living in Brighton It has to be it’s location – a diverse, busy town which is next to the sea and pretty much in a National Park. What more can you ask for? I love a good pint, my favourite being from the Darkstar brewery. In Brighton you are spoilt for choice when it comes to places to drink. There’s a wide range, from quiet ‘old man’ pubs to loud party pubs full of people getting ready to have a big one. As I’m getting on a bit now, I prefer to take it easy in the Great Eastern on Trafalgar Street or the Shakespeare’s Head in Seven Dials. Favourite Night Club/Live Music The Loft on Ship Street hosts some of my favourite DJs and is a small venue for those in the know. It’s a bit of an older crowd and music is the key. There’s no attitude, just good vibes and people wanting to have a good old rave up. Favourite Restaurant Firstly, let me just say I’m a big fan of eating! I love to eat many different things from all over the world, but my favourite place to eat in Brighton has to be BBQ Shack at the World’s End Pub. They do THE best meat dishes in Brighton. Everything is slow cooked, so is super tender and juicy – amazing beef brisket, pulled pork and ribs! Plus it’s in a pub – bonus. 40 Favourite thing to do on a rainy day In Brighton we have very convenient and quick transport links to London – one hour by train. If it’s raining it’s very easy to head to the museums in central London. Tate Modern, the V&A and the British Museum are all free to enter and you could spend a whole week exploring their collections. Favourite Event It’s the oddest sight to see thousands of Zombies staggering and drooling blood on the streets of your town. But, that is exactly what happens on the annual Beach of the Dead Zombie Parade around Halloween time. Any costume goes as long as you’re undead! You’ll see zombie golfers, zombie flight attendants, zombie McDonald’s workers, zombie Prime Ministers, zombie cats and dogs... you get the idea! Favourite place in the UK I’m into the outdoors, so my favourite place outside of Brighton is the Scottish Highlands. It has the most beautiful places to go camping and hiking, if only the weather was a little better! The Loft on Ship Street hosts some of my favourite DJs and is a small venue for those in the know. It’s a bit of an older crowd and music is the key. Paul Fawcett // International Project Officer www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Guide to Brighton Jo Cohen, Academic Co-ordinator Favourite thing about living in Brighton I love being so close to the sea and having the feeling of open space. Take a walk or cycle along the Undercliff Walk which goes all the way from Brighton Marina along the coast to Saltdean. Favourite Restaurant Favourite Night Club/Live Music The range of restaurants in Brighton is amazing, I love wandering through the North Laine at the weekend and eating brunch (= breakfast + lunch) at one of the many amazing cafes. For a meal, the lively atmosphere and yummy Spanish food at Casa Don Carlos is great with a group of friends and for a quick cheap eat you can’t beat Pompoko, Japanese food at great prices and very popular with our International Students. There are many great venues for music but why not make your own?! Head to Lucky Voice, karaoke rooms that let you and your friends choose the music and sing along as loud as you like! Favourite Bar I’m more of a pub person these days and love the warm, cosy atmosphere of an English Pub. The Earth and Stars pub close to the College in the North Laine is an environmentally friendly pub with organic food and drinks and even powered by a solar panel in the roof. You could try a glass of their organic cider, an alcoholic drink made from apples that is typical of our country. Favourite thing to do on a rainy day I love unusual small venues and hidden away in the back streets of Hove is The Old Market. It is a venue that has lots of performances from theatre, book readings and comedy to music, gigs and dance events. There are many great venues for music but why not make your own?! Head to Lucky Voice, karaoke rooms that let you and your friends choose the music and sing along as loud as you like! Jo Cohen // Academic Co-ordinator 42 LO RES I love being so close to the sea and having the feeling of open space. Jo Cohen // Academic Co-ordinator Favourite place in the UK I grew up in the Lake District, a stunning National Park in the north of England. My family still live here so I love returning and spending time walking on the fells or passing the time next to one of the many beautiful lakes where you can hire canoes and enjoy the peace and tranquillity. Favourite activity around Brighton On a sunny day you can take the bus or even walk out to one of the pitch and putt greens at Roedean or Rottingdean. Here you can play ‘mini-golf’ and show off your putting skills as well as having great fun with a group of friends when the competition gets serious! Favourite Event I love Bonfire night in Lewes, a lovely English town not far from Brighton. On Bonfire night (5th November) the town has a number of big fires (bonfires) and a parade with burning torches. Wear lots of warm clothes and treat yourself to some yummy fish and chips as you watch the celebrations. www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Guide to Brighton Favourite Restaurant Favourite Night Club/Live Music For a special occasion I enjoy eating at the Giggling Squid, a Thai restaurant in the Laines. It’s not the cheapest in town but the food is always fresh and delicious. I would also recommend the pizza at Gourmet Pizza Kitchen on Western Road, which I believe is the best in Brighton! You will often find me dancing the night away in Casablanca on Middle Street. This basement club is a little claustrophobic and dark, but it’s one of Brighton’s best venues for live jazz, funk and Motown. It’s a great place to have a good dance and the atmosphere is always unpretentious, friendly and cheerful. Wednesdays are the best for students with deals on drinks and free entry until 11. Giulia Samonati, Favourite Bar International It has to be the Northern Lights near Student Officer Brighton Town Hall, a Scandinavian Favourite thing about living in Brighton I like the fact that it’s a very liberal city and people make the effort of seeing beyond the way you look. It’s a great city for international students as people are friendly and very accepting of different cultures. bar that offers a large selection of vodkas, including some home-made ones (my favourite is the fisherman’s friend one!). It is small and quirky, they have good food and often it hosts art exhibitions. Favourite thing to do on a rainy day I get quite lazy on rainy days, but I like going to a cozy pub with an open fire and enjoy some food. I’m particularly fond of the Lion and Lobster and the Royal Sovereign. It’s a great city for international students as people are friendly and very accepting of different cultures. Giulia Samonati // International Student Officer I really enjoy the Burning of The Clocks parade, which takes place every year on 21st December, to celebrate the shortest day of the year. Giulia Samonati // International Student Officer Favourite Event I really enjoy the Burning of The Clocks parade, which takes place every year on 21st December, to celebrate the shortest day of the year. The event is free and starts with a parade of people carrying home-made paper lanterns through the city and ends on the beach with a spectacular fire and fireworks show. It’s a striking display of light and fire well worth seeing. Favourite place in the UK I fell in love with the rugged coast of the Isle of Wight, a place I always recommend. The east of the island is quite touristy and often busy, but West Wight is more rural and offers stunning deserted beaches, hidden coves and clear waters. Walking or cycling that unspoiled part of the island will leave you doubting that you are in England! Favourite activity around Brighton The countryside around Brighton is great for walking, but what I love doing the most on my days off is heading down to the beach to have a barbeque with friends. I love the smell of meat cooking on the fire and it’s my favourite way to relax and catch up with friends! 44 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Religion Religion The UK is a multi-faith society. The largest faith group is Christian and in Brighton, there are good relationships between the major faith communities. You are free to practise your faith here in the UK. City College Quiet Room City College has its own quiet room which is available for students to pray. It is located on the lower ground floor of the Trafalgar building. As it has a code pad on the door, to access the room you should key in the following code: C0258Z. Christian There are a large number of Christian churches. To find a church near you, please check these websites: Church of England (Anglican) www.achurchnearyou.com Catholic www.dabnet.org Methodist www.methodist.org.uk Baptist www.baptist.org.uk Quakers Religious Society of Friends Friends Meeting House, Ship Street, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1AF Tel: 01273 770258 URC Christian Centre Saunders Park Rise, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 4ES Tel: 01273 674611 Greek Orthodox Church Carlton Hill, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 0GW Tel: 01273 675396 46 Church of Christ The King 47, New England St, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4GQ Tel: 01273 747687 The Salvation Army 1-6, Park Crescent Terrace, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 3HD Tel: 01273 607095 Leybourne Rd, Bevendean, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 4LT Tel: 01273 621196 Brighton United Reformed Church Brighthelm, North Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1YD Tel: 01273 821512 Christian Science Church 97, Montpelier Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 3BE Tel: 01273 325100 Calvary Evangelical Church 72, Viaduct Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 4ND Tel: 01273 687721 Islam Jewish Baha’i Brighton Mosque / Muslim Community Centre 150, Dyke Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 5PA Tel: 01273 505247 www.brightonmosque.com Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue 6 Lansdowne Road, Hove , East Sussex BN3 1FF Tel: 01273 737223 Baha’i Faith 19 Stanford Av, Brighton BN1 6GA Tel: 01273 505895 Al Medinah Mosque 24, Bedford Place, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2PT Tel: 01273 737721 / 07778 108633 almedinahmosquebrighton. blogspot.com/ Shahjalal Mosque 250 Portland Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 5QT Tel: 01273 323990 Brighton and Hove Reformed Synagogue Palmeira Avenue, Hove BN3 3GE Tel: 01273 735343 Sikh The nearest Sikh temple is Sri Guru Singh Sabha 27-29 Spencer Road, West Green, Crawley, West Sussex RH11 7DE Buddhist Bodhisattva Buddhist Centre 3 Lansdowne Road, Hove BN3 1DN Tel: 01273 732 917 Others Unitarian Church (Brighton) New Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1UF Tel: 01273 696022 Hindu Swaminarayana Temple 79a Trafalgar Road, Portslade, Brighton, East Sussex BN41 1XD Tel: 01273 420200 City College has its own quiet room which is available for students to pray. Evangelical Free Church Park Hill, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 0BT Tel: 01273 682788 www.ccb.ac.uk/public/international Keep up-to-date with City College on Facebook and Twitter Central Campus Pelham Street, Brighton East Sussex BN1 4FA Tel: 01273 667788 Email: [email protected] East Campus Wilson Avenue, Brighton East Sussex BN2 5PB Tel: 01273 667788 Email: [email protected] City Skills & Jobs 6 Queen’s Road, Brighton East Sussex BN1 3AW Tel: 01273 667770 Email: [email protected] www.ccb.ac.uk