PATHWAY PROGRAMME For students studying a Pathway course
WELCOME TO
SABLE
GUARDIANS
Welcome to the UK! We hope you enjoy living and studying here. This handbook contains important information to help you make the most of your time on your pathway programme. Please read it carefully. If you have any questions after reading this handbook, please ask us. We are here to support you throughout your studies in the UK. We look forward to meeting you soon - or welcoming you back if you are returning to continue your studies.
CAROLINE LLOYD T: +44 20 7759 5406 M: +44 77 0130 2178 E: Caroline.Lloyd@sableinternational.com
LINDSEY LATIMER T: +44 20 7759 5406 M: +44 77 2167 6859 E: Lindsey.Latimer@sableinternational.com
WELCOME Sable Guardians have a team of staff based across the UK. Our role as your Educational Guardians is to support you through your journey of study in the UK. Depending on where you are studying, one of our team will be dedicated to supporting and visiting you at college.
OUR MOST IMPORTANT MESSAGE: If you are worried about anything at all - please ask. No problem is too big or too small. We cannot help you if we do not know there is a problem. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Living and studying in another country can be exciting, but it can also feel challenging at first. Both your college and guardians want to help you settle in successfully.
ARRIVAL TO
THE UK
Depending on your arrangements: • Your parents may bring you to college. • The college may arrange airport transport. • You may travel to college on your own.
You should already have details of where to go and how to meet your driver.
If you have any problems at the airport: • Speak to uniformed airport staff. • Contact your college or Sable Guardians immediately. • Do NOT go with anyone if you are unsure who they are. • Keep your passport and travel documents safe at all times. • If you have a UK mobile phone, switch it on when you arrive and make sure it is fully charged before you travel.
Remember, it is normal to feel nervous when you arrive. There will always be staff available to help you. But if you are unsure where to go or what to do – ask for help. And if you are returning to study here, please show kindness – remember what it was like when you were new and look out for new students!
TRAVEL ON
PUBLIC
TRANSPORT
RAIL TRAVEL: Students travelling by train can apply for a 16-25 Railcard. This gives 1/3 off most train fares. You can find more information here: https://www.16-25railcard.co.uk Apps such as Trainline or TrainPal allow you to buy digital tickets with QR codes.
AT TRAIN STATIONS: • Speak to uniformed staff if you need help. • Use the Information button at London Underground stations if needed. • You can often “tap in and out” using a contactless bank card.
LONDON TRAVEL : • Students studying in London can apply for a Zip Oyster Card. You may apply before you arrive in the UK. • Ages 11-15: https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel/11-15-zip oyster-photocard
• Ages 16+: https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel/16-plus zipoyster-photocard
BRITISH
CULTURE
MEETING AND GREETING: British people often say “please”, “thank you” and “excuse me”. me”. Using these phrases is considered polite and important in daily life. Queueing (waiting in line) is also very important in the UK. You will see this everywhere, especially at airports, shops, and bus stops. Do not push in front of others as it is considered rude.
WEATHER: The weather in the UK changes throughout the year. Winter temperatures can fall to -10° C. Summer temperatures can rise to 35° C. If you arrive in September, bring a warm coat, jumpers, and clothes you can layer.
TAP WATER Tap water in the UK is safe to drink unless clearly labelled otherwise. Most people use a reusable water bottle.
ELECTRICITY UK electricity uses 240 volts and three-pin square plugs (13 amp). You may need a plug adaptor - these are available in supermarkets and online. Check your accommodation rules about prohibited electrical items to prevent fire risks.
MOBILE PHONES You can buy Pay As You Go SIM cards from companies such as 02, Vodafone, or EE. Some providers offer cheaper international calls, for example giffgaff or Lycamobile. Ask your college which provider has the best signal in your area.
BEHAVIOUR
& CONDUCT
BULLYING Bullying and cyberbullying (bullying which takes place online) are not tolerated. The UK values equality and respect. Discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability is not acceptable. You are expected to treat others with respect, even if their beliefs or lifestyle are different from yours. If you experience discrimination, discrimination, report it to your college or guardians.
IF YOU FEEL YOU ARE BEING BULLIED: • Tell a trusted adult . • Take a friend with you if you feel nervous . • Support is available. Anti-bullying helpline: 0808 800 2222
PREVENT (ANTI-RADICALISATION) The UK Government introduced a strategy called Prevent to help stop terrorism and protect people from being drawn into extremism.
THE AIM OF PREVENT IS TO: • Stop people from being influenced by extremist ideas • Provide support to anyone who may be at risk • Help schools and colleges keep students safe
All Sable Guardians staff are trained to recognise possible signs of radicalisation as part of our safeguarding duties. But if you are worried about yourself or a friend, please speak to us.
PERSONAL
SAFETY
Like in any large city, you should take care: • Avoid walking alone at night. • Stay in groups where possible. • Use well-lit streets. • Avoid dark alleys and shortcuts. • Use reputable taxi companies. If you live in college accommodation: • Keep your passport and BRP card locked in your room. • Do not carry large amounts of cash. • Keep bank cards and PIN numbers separate. • Never leave bags or belongings unattended. • If you lose your passport or BRP, report it immediately. • Some areas near college may be “out of bounds” for safety reasons. Follow college rules. • If you plan to return late or stay out overnight, you may need permission (especially if you are under 18).
ONLINE SAFETY
& SCAMS
• Be careful of emails, websites, or messages asking for money. • It is very unlikely that a genuine organisation will ask you for money by text or email.
• Do NOT send money or share personal details without checking first. Ask your college or guardians if you are unsure before taking any action. • Scams are common and unfortunately, international students are targeted. Don’t worry - staying alert and calm will keep you safe.
IF YOU THINK YOU ARE A VICTIM OF FRAUD: • Don’t take any further action, don’t panic, and tell your college and/or guardians immediately.
For more information: https:/ /www.gov.uk/report-suspicious-emails-websites-phishing
LAWS IN THE
UK
FOR UNDER 18s
In the UK, you are legally a minor if you are under 18. IT IS ILLEGAL TO: • Buy cigarettes, e-cigarettes or vapes if under 18. • Buy alcohol if under 18. • Ask someone over 18 to buy alcohol for you. • Buy or use illegal drugs (this applies to all ages). • Get a tattoo if under 18. • Gamble if under 18. • Buy a knife if under 18.
The age of consent in the UK is 16. If you are under 18: • It is illegal to send nude images or sexual videos (sometimes called “sexting”). • It is illegal to save or share these images, even if both people are under 18.
Think carefully before sharing any personal images online. If you are unsure about relationships or what is appropriate, ask for advice.
MEDICAL
&
HEALTH SUPPORT
DENTAL CARE Dental treatment is free for students aged 19 and under under the NHS. Make sure you register as an NHS patient, not a private patient. Find a dentist: https:/ /www.nhs.uk/service-search/finda-dentist
EYE CARE Eye tests usually cost around £25. Large providers such as Boots or Specsavers offer appointments in most cities.
MEDICATION Make sure your college is aware of your medical needs and store all medication safely. Please note: some medicines from your home country may not be available in the UK, so speak to a doctor if needed.
REGISTERING WITH A
GP
(DOCTOR)
When you arrive in the UK, you must register with a General Practitioner (GP): https:/ /www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-toregister-with-a-gp-surgery/ Ask your college or guardians for help if you need it. As a full-time student, you are covered by the National Health Service (NHS). AFTER REGISTERING: • You do not pay to see a GP. • You may be referred to specialists if needed. Prescriptions usually cost around £9.90 per item and are bought from local pharmacies. Full-time students may not have to pay in some cases - ask a pharmacist. Emergency (danger to life) number: 999 Non-emergency medical help: 111 NHS website: https:/ /www.nhs.uk
MENTAL HEALTH
SUPPORT
Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
IF YOU FEEL: • Stressed • Overwhelmed • Homesick/Culture Shock • Anxious Please talk to someone, even if it doesn’t feel natural - we want to help. You are not alone - it is normal to experience these feelings, even if you felt excited about living in the UK at first. These feelings usually improve with time, but support is always available. YOU CAN SPEAK TO: College staff, guardians and/or a variety of external organisations, listed here: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-andservices/seeking-help-for-a-mental-health-problem/where-to-start/
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS: Childline - 0800 1111 NSPCC - 0808 800 5000 Young Minds - 0808 802 5544 Mind - https:/ /www.mind.org.uk
UNDERSTANDING YOUR
PATHWAY PROGRAMME A pathway programme prepares you for entry into a UK university. It helps you improve your academic knowledge, English language skills, and study skills. PROGRESSION TO UNIVERSITY IS NOT AUTOMATIC. YOU MUST: • Achieve the required grades • Meet the English language requirement • Maintain good attendance • Complete all assignments Your teachers and guardians can explain the exact progression requirements for your course.
ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS
IN THE UK
Studying in the UK may feel different from studying in your home country. INDEPENDENT LEARNING In the UK, students are expected to: • Study on their own outside class • Complete reading and research • Meet deadlines without reminders Managing your time well is very important. PLAGIARISM AND ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT Plagiarism means copying someone else’s work and presenting it as your own. This includes: • Copying from the internet • Copying from another student • Using Al tools improperly and/or without permission • Paying someone to complete your work • Academic misconduct is taken very seriously. It can result in failing an assignment or being removed from the course. • If you are unsure how to reference correctly, ask your teacher.
ATTENDANCE
&
VISA RESPONSIBILITIES
IF YOU ARE STUDYING ON A STUDENT VISA, YOU MUST: • Attend all classes • Arrive on time • Inform the college if you are absent • Provide medical evidence if required
Poor attendance may affect your visa status. The college may be required to report concerns to the UK authorities. Always inform your college if you are unwell or unable to attend class, and in the case of severe illness, contact your GP and/or visit your local pharmacy.
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT
& BUDGETING
It is recommended that you open a UK bank account. TO OPEN AN ACCOUNT, YOU MAY NEED: • Your passport • Your BRP card (if applicable) • A letter from your college • Proof of your UK address Do not carry large amounts of cash. Use online banking safely and never share your PIN or passwords. Living in the UK can be expensive. It is important to budget carefully. You may need money for: • Food • Travel • Phone bills • Study materials • Social activities
Plan your spending and avoid unnecessary debt. Ask for advice if you are worried about money.
PRACTICAL LIVING
SKILLS
If you are living away from home for the first time, you may need to manage daily tasks yourself. REMEMBER TO: • Wash clothes regularly • Keep your room clean • Follow kitchen safety rules • Understand fire alarm procedures • Dispose of rubbish correctly • Be respectful of those you are living alongside and keep shared areas neat and tidy If you are unsure how to do something, ask for help .
PART TIME
WORK
Your visa may allow you to work part-time during term time. The number of hours you can work will be written on your visa. IMPORTANT: • Do not work more hours than permitted • You must apply for a National Insurance number: https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number/how-to-apply • You must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage
Your main focus should be your studies. Working too many hours can affect your academic performance.
UK PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
& TERM DATES IN THE UK, THERE ARE PUBLIC HOLIDAYS CALLED “BANK HOLIDAYS.” ON THESE DAYS: • Colleges may be closed • Shops may have shorter opening hours • Public transport may run less frequently Make sure you know your term dates and holiday periods. Do not book travel during term time without permission.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
INFORMATION Always keep important phone numbers saved in your mobile phone. Emergency services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 999 Non-emergency medical advice: 111 In an emergency, stay calm and clearly explain your location. YOU SHOULD ALSO SAVE: • Sable Guardians’ on-call number: +44 (0)7513 106 451 • Your college emergency contact(s) • Your accommodation contact number
FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
IS PROGRESSION TO UNIVERSITY GUARANTEED? No. You must meet the academic and attendance requirements. CAN I TRAVEL DURING TERM TIME? You must request permission first. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I FEEL UNWELL? Contact your GP, visit the pharmacy and/or call 111 for medical advice. WHO CAN I SPEAK TO IF I HAVE A PROBLEM? You can speak to your guardians, college staff, or a trusted adult.
CHECKLISTS Use these checklists to ensure a smooth arrival and start to life in the UK. If you need any help at all, just ask. BEFORE YOU ARRIVE - CHECKLIST • Check your visa and travel documents • Arrange airport transfer • Bring appropriate clothing for UK weather • Bring important documents • Arrange accommodation • Prepare emergency contact numbers FIRST WEEK CHECKLIST • Register with your college • Register with a GP • Open a bank account • Purchase a SIM card • Familiarise yourself with your timetable • Familiarise yourself with your local area
FINAL
THOUGHTS
We understand this is a lot of information. Some of it may not apply to you right now. However, it is important that you are aware of it. You can refer back to this handbook at any time.
WE WILL FINISH WITH OUR MOST IMPORTANT MESSAGE: If you are worried about anything - PLEASE ASK. No concern is too small. We are here to help you every step of the way.
Sable Guardians 24 hour phone number: +44 (0)7513 106 451 Sable Guardians Office: Address: 18 St Swithin’s Lane, London, EC4N 8AD Email: guardians@sableinternational.com Website: www.sableinternationalguardians.co.uk