Medway Students: Welcome to Medway

Just arrived??

CHECK LIST:

qHave you completed the registration process for your course?

qHave you organised your accommodation?

qDo you need to register with the police?

qHave you taken a photocopy of your passport and Biometric Residence Permit to keep in a separate and safe place?

qHave you registered with a local doctor?

qHave you opened a UK bank account?

qHave you purchased a UK sim card for your mobile.

qHave you purchased insurance to protect your valuables, especially your laptop, mobile, camera, etc?

qHave you registered to receive the weekly ‘What’s On…’ which gives details of various social/cultural events both on and off campus?

qHave you looked at societies/activities available through the Student Union?

qHave you explored the Drill Hall Library? This is a place you will be spending many hours.

ACCOMMODATION:

** If you have any problems

within university accommodation

you should seek help or advice

from your University’s

Accommodations Office.

** There are many ways of

finding accommodation outside

of the university, some more

reliable than others. Please

review your options carefully and

don’t make an uninformed decision.

** DO YOUR HOMEWORK and don’t be pressured into

making a bad decision. Consider such things as …

o How far is the accommodation from campus?

o Is it a safe area? Ask local people what they know of the area.

o What facilities are close to the accommodation?

o Are there additional bills for you to consider or are things such as heating and wifi included in the rent?

o Compare prices.

** PLEASE SEEK ADVICE before signing a contract or

handing over any money, especially cash … sadly we see too

many students, especially internationals, fall victim to

unscrupulous landlords.

** Ask the landlord if they are accredited with the National

Landlord’s Association … if they are, this is a good sign

they will be trust-worthy and will offer you the correct type of

contract. It is recommended you only take an ‘Assured

Shorthold Tenancy Agreement’.

** Once you have signed a contract it is legally binding!

** When you move into a new flat take a few photos as

evidence of the condition of the property.

** Your deposit should not be held by the landlord but by an

independent deposit holder. Your rent should only need to

be paid one month in advance. If you are asked to pay a lump

sum, please seek advice.

** If you have problems with external accommodation please

seek advice and help from Student Union Advisors.

** One recommended site is: www.medwaystudentpad.co.uk

but please be aware that these properties are NOT vetted by

the university or the Student Union. You will find lots of

useful information on this website, under the ‘Housing

Advice’ tab.

BARGAIN CORNER

** Our Chaplaincy Bargain

Corner is located in

Pilkington 005

and is open to all

students at the

Medway campus.

** We recognise that, many

students are on a limited budget and may arrive at university

with few possessions such as bedding, kitchen items, warm

clothing, etc.

** We hold a supply of good-quality, second-hand items

which we sell to students at minimal cost. The funds raised

are fed directly back in to other Chaplaincy-run student

activities.

** We run a full sale event during the first three weeks of

term. Following that period, our Bargain Corner is open on an

ad hoc basis for bedding, kitchen items and stationery (just

ask). Further dates for clothing sales are set throughout the

winter months. To keep up-to-date follow us on Facebook at

Medway Campus Chaplaincy.

** Please remember that when you are leaving university

we would gratefully receive back any items, remaining in good

condition, that you no long need or are unable to take back

home.

"It does not only help students financially

because everything is so cheap, it also

helps to protect the environment as

all the goods are donated."

BLOG:

** Want to know more about events organised by the

Chaplaincy at the Medway campus? Then take a look at our

blog for photos of past events and to see what other students

have said.

** These events are open to students across the Medway

Campus and not just people of faith.

** http://medwaystudents.blogspot.co.uk

** You can also follow us on Facebook at 'Medway Campus

Chaplaincy'

CELEBRATIONS:

** Here’s a very quick tour through some national and local
celebrations and events which may be of interest to you:

MONTH	NATIONAL	LOCAL
January	New Year’s Day (1^st)
February	Valentine’s Day (14^th)
March	Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day)
April	Easter Day (sometimes in March) St George’s Day	English Festival (Rainham)
May	May Bank Holiday Spring Bank Holiday	Sweeps Festival (Rochester) Food & Drink Festival (Chatham)
June		Dickens’ Festival (Rochester) Trooping the Colour (London) Armed Forces Day (Gillingham)
July		Medway River Festival (Chatham)
August	Summer Bank Holiday	Notting Hill Carnival (London)
September		Will Adams Festival (Gillingham)
October
November	Bonfire Night (5^th) Remembrance Day (11^th)
December	Christmas Day (25^th) Boxing Day (26^th)	Rochester Christmas Market

CHAPLAINCY:

** The Medway Campus Chaplain, Lynne Martin, is here to assist each of the universities at Medway in providing quality support and a confidential listening ear for all of our students and staff.

** We are available for ALL students, of any faith or no faith at all.

** We are available for those who find themselves in crisis; providing care and support in times of loneliness, isolation, ill-health, bereavement, etc. Or simply feel in need of a listening ear.

** Through our activities and our availability we desire to help facilitate strong social support structures and a place of belonging beyond a student’s degree programme. We aim to provide a sense of community within which students will receive friendship, support and cultural enrichment.

** We produce a monthly Chaplaincy news-sheet with information regarding events and activities. Contact the Chaplain to register for this news-sheet.

“The Chaplain gave me a sense of

belonging when sometimes being

homesick can be difficult.”

CULTURAL AWARENESS:

** Life at university can provide an incredible opportunity for you to broaden your horizons, improve your communication skills and learn more about other cultures and life-styles.

** If you are an international student, you may find that British people seem ‘reserved’ and may not immediately appear friendly … try not to interpret this in the wrong way.

** In the UK when we meet people for the first time we often make ‘small talk’ a definition of which is: polite conversation about unimportant or uncontroversial matters … many a great friendship has started with a discussion about the weather. You will soon realise that British people are obsessed with the weather; so this is always a good topic to break the ice.

** The usual British greeting is a simple “Hello, how are you?”; a short simple response, such as: “OK, thank you” will be expected. With someone you are just meeting, the question ‘how are you?’ should not be seen as an invitation to tell the person about all your problems and stresses.

** A simple hand-shake would be the normal British greeting. Kissing or an embrace are not a normal greeting for a first meeting, but are common amongst close friends.

** When meeting someone for the first time, please don't ask personal questions, such as, "how much do you earn?" or "how much is your house worth?"

** Eye-contact is expected here and viewed as respectful. If you come from a culture where you avoid direct eye-contact you may find that people interpret this as insincerity or dis-interest.

** Good time-keeping is considered an issue of respect in British culture. If you arrange to meet someone at 10am, they will expect you to be there at 10am! If you are running late a brief text message is polite.

** Queuing is the normal form of waiting to be served in a shop, bank or post office, etc. If you are unsure, always ask.

DAY TRIPS:

** This academic year we hope to re-introduce some more day trips and social activitie. Please follow us on Facebook for more up-to-date information (Medway Campus Chaplaincy).

** During your time here do take advantage of any opportunities to see more of the UK and the local area.

** Throughout the year trips and activities are organised by Chaplaincy, as well as GKUnions. Be sure to register your interest with these groups as soon as possible.

** In the past, there have been day trips to Cambridge, Oxford, Brighton, Dover Castle, Hever Castle, Faversham Hop Festival, etc. For information regarding these trips sign up to receive our monthly Chaplaincy news-sheet or follow us on Facebook.

“ALL THE TRIPS WERE GREAT.

Great deal, cheap, convenient,

nice places. Just perfect.”

DRILL HALL LIBRARY:

What’s in it?

** Lots of helpful staff and resources to assist you with your studies. See: https://campus.medway.ac.uk/drill-hall-library-services/

** You will also find your Chaplain running Chill & Chat pop-ups on a regular basis. FREE lollies, inspirational bookmarks and the chance to take a short break from your studies to colour or chat.

** Full details of opening times throughout the year can be found on the Drill Hall Library website: https://campus.medway.ac.uk/

** Make sure you check out all the fun and study help events and support happening in the library https://campus.medway.ac.uk/events

** Add the Drill Hall Library to your social media and stay updated with the latest news and events

https://www.facebook.com/drillhall.library/

https://twitter.com/drillhalllib

https://www.instagram.com/drillhalllibrary/

EMPLOYABILITY:

** International students should check their visa to confirm their right to work within the UK. If you do not adhere to employment rules this will have serious consequences. If you are unsure, please seek advice.

** In order to work in the UK you must obtain a N.I. number (National Insurance). You can apply for a National Insurance number online at www.ninoapply.org.uk

** Each of the universities at Medway will have people who can advise you regarding employability, interview skills, CV writing, volunteering opportunities, campus employment opportunities and employment fairs, plus a wide variety of workshops.

** There are also those who can assist you with the transition from study into employability.

ENTERTAINMENT:

** In the UK it is illegal to have a television without a license. The current cost of a colour television license is £159.00 per year. If you are caught using a television without a license you will be fined!

** Going to the cinema in the UK is quite expensive but look out for various deals. The Odeon cinema at the Dockside Outlet centre offers a variety of deals providing cheaper tickets. If you are really fanatical about film, invest in an Odeon Premiere Club card. They also offer student discounts.

FAITH SPACE:

** In the UK, you are free to practise the religion of your choice and many larger towns and cities will have a choice of churches, mosques and temples.

** To find an appropriate place of worship you can either get advice from the Chaplain on campus or simply use Google.

** We have a wonderful Faith Space on campus, located in Pilkington 039. Please respect the fact that certain times are allocated for use by specific faith groups; however, the majority of the time you are free to come and pray or meditate in a quiet and respectful manner. Please check the schedule posted on the entrance doors.

FAMILY:

** If you are here with your family and you have children then Medway Council can provide information regarding child care and schooling. Look at Medway Council’s website -

https://admissions.medway.gov.uk/synergy/fisd_welcome.aspx .

HEALTH:

** PLEASE register with a local Doctors’ Surgery as soon as possible after your arrival in the UK - DO NOT wait until you are ill.

** You may need to obtain a ‘student status letter’ in order to register with a GP (General Practitioner).

** You can find a doctor near you by checking: www.nhs.uk … under ‘services near you’ click ‘GP’ and enter the postcode of your accommodation.

** This website also has details of local hospitals and dentists.

** If you are not registered with a local doctor and you need urgent medical attention or find yourself in hospital you risk receiving an unpleasant financial bill.

** However, if you register with a GP you will receive free medical care.

** PLEASE BE AWARE that the Accident & Emergency Department at any hospital is for EMERGENCIES ONLY. Please do not go to A&E if you simply have a cold or minor ailment.

** You can also seek reliable health advice from any Pharmacist (called ‘chemists’ in the UK).

LANGUAGE:

** British people are usually direct communicators. Never be afraid of saying ‘NO’ to something, we will generally appreciate your honesty.

** If you don’t understand something, always ask and never be afraid to ask people to repeat something or to speak more slowly.

** If someone doesn’t understand what you are saying it may be that the person is not familiar with your accent or pronunciation. Try using different words or writing down what you want to say.

** TABLEtalk is a weekly event held on campus each Thursday evening during term time. Do join us in the Oasis Lounge, Rochester building, Medway Campus between 7:30-9:30pm. See more information under ‘TABLEtalk’.

MAKING FRIENDS:

** We understand that you are here to concentrate on your degree. However, finding opportunities and taking the time to form friendships, outside of your own culture and language, will prove invaluable in the long-run.

** There will be some tough days ahead and good friends and a good support network will help you maintain healthy emotional and mental well-being.

** Do take advantage of the Chaplaincy or Student Union activities to help you get to know other people and make new friends.

** Follow the Student Union on their Facebook page or sign up for the weekly What’s On … email for information about a variety of events.

MONEY:

** Each of the universities at Medway will have places you can go to seek financial help and advice.

** Do open a UK bank account as soon as you’re able. Things to consider when choosing a bank account:

1. Do you get a debit card?

2. Are there any monthly fees?

3. Can you do online banking?

4. Can you withdraw money for free at any cash machine?

5. Is there a branch close to campus or your living accommodation?

** You will need a UK bank account if you are receiving scholarship money from your home country or if you need to transfer money between here and your home. If you need to extend your UK visa, you will need to provide copies of bank statements.

** DO NOT ALLOW YOURSELF to get into financial difficulties, seek help as soon as you realise you are struggling financially.

** PLEASE DO NOT use payday loan companies, such as Quick Quid or Wonga!! These companies may seem an easy way to borrow money but they charge extremely high interest rates and you will end up repaying much more than you originally borrowed.

SACRED SPACE:

** Sacred Space is a monthly event specifically for Christian students. We will meet on the first Sunday of each month, share food together and study/discuss some aspect of the Bible. For more information, please contact the Medway Campus Chaplain

SAFETY:

** Whether you are living on or off campus you should consider taking out an insurance policy to protect your valuables such as your laptop, tablet, smart phone, etc.

** Various insurance companies provide student policies to help protect your valuables from accidental damage, fire and theft.

** PLEASE DO NOT carry around large amounts of cash L

** PLEASE be sensible when walking alone at night or in a deserted area. DO NOT have your valuables on show for people to see.

** Medway campus is served by a Police Community Support Officer, who can advise and assist you with issues of safety or crime. Please see posters around campus or contact your Student Centre.

SHOPPING:

** If you purchase a TOTUM card, from the Student Union, this will entitle you to all sorts of discounts in shops, restaurants, cinemas, etc. At a cost of just £12 per year it is well worth it.

** Throughout the year Chaplaincy runs a Bargain Corner where you can buy good-quality second-hand household items and warm clothing. See ‘Bargain Corner’ section for more information.

** Charity Shops abound in the UK and are also a good source of cheap second-hand household items and clothing.

** There are generally a lot of options for food shopping, from small corner shops to large supermarkets, so do investigate the different options near to where you live. Consider carefully how you budget your money.

STUDENT’S UNION:

** You can find your Students Union (SU) in The Hub. The unions of each of our universities work in partnership to provide a wide range of student societies and sports clubs for your to join. Joining such a group can provide a health balance to your academic studies.

** You can also find food and drink at The Deep End; plus support from the in-house Advice Service.

** Information about all SU services at Medway is currently hosted on the Greenwich Student Unions' website. Visit: https://www.greenwichsu.co.uk/

STUDY SKILLS:

** Enquire with your program leader, personal tutor or the Drill Hall Library to see what assistance is available regarding study skills. International students may find that our education style in the UK differs greatly from what they are used to.

** Plagiarism is taken extremely seriously at all universities within the UK. Plagiarism is ‘the unauthorized use of the words and thoughts of another author and the representation of them as your own’.

** You MUST learn how to correctly use the appropriate referencing system.

TABLEtalk:

** TABLEtalk has been created primarily, but not exclusively, for internationals. These evenings provide a great opportunity for students & internationals to meet with other nationalities, to build friendships with some local people and, in the process (if needed) to practise their English. Most evenings have a theme and are created to be both fun and interactive.

** TABLEtalk is not a formal English class but it provides a relaxed and fun environment in which to improve your day-to-day English level.

** We will re-start in-person meetings on September 29th, 2022. You'll find us each Thursday evening, in the Oasis Lounge, Rochester building, Medway Campus between 7:30-9:30pm. To fully benefit from the evening we advise you to come for the entire event. This is open to all students at the Medway Campus. No need to sign up, but turn up and you'll be made welcome.

** If you require more information please contact Lynne at: medwaycampuschaplain@gre.ac.uk

TRAVEL:

** Be sure to enquire about any ticket deals!!

** If you wish to travel around the UK during your time here there are many helpful websites where you can find out more about the places you wish to visit. Two are: www.touristinformationcentres.com ; www.visitbritain.com

** Train travel within the UK is quite expensive. To get good deals you often need to plan well in advance. However a 16-25 Rail Card, which currently costs £30 for one year, will grant you a discount of 1/3 every time you travel. For more information and to apply go to: www.16-25railcard.co.uk Please note that this card is now available to those over 25, if you are in full-time study.

** If you’re living in London or visiting the city on a regular basis do purchase an OYSTER CARD which will save you 30% when travelling within London. To obtain an Oyster Card you will need: your student ID, a credit or debit card and a digital photograph of yourself (head shot only)

** Bus/Coach Travel is often a cheaper option, especially between major cities, but obviously your journey will take longer. The two best options to explore are: www.nationalexpress.com or http://uk.megabus.com

** We DO NOT advise you to hitch-hike in the UK … if you do intend to hitch-hike please inform a friend of your plans, where you are heading, etc. Then tell them of your safe arrival.

** The Youth Hostel Association has some great places to stay, both in the centre of major cities and also in beautiful rural spots. For more information look at: www.yha.org.uk

VOLUNTEERING:

** By volunteering you can make a difference to yourself and to the people around you.

** There are a variety of opportunities in the local community and , on occasion, Chaplaincy needs volunteers to assist with the Bargain Corner, etc.

WORLD CAFÉ:

** Open to ALL students at the Medway Campus.

** The World Cafe has been running on the Medway campus for many years and is well attended by students.

** It takes place in the Student Centre, Blake building every Wednesday, from 12 noon to 2pm.

** This is a great time for you to take a well earned break from your studies, to come along and relax, chat, play games, meet others and make new friends.

** Each week the cafe is facilitated by various local church members under the covering of the Medway Campus Chaplain. We provide tea, coffee, squash crisps and biscuits - all FREE of charge :-)

** Occasionally we hold various cultural events at the café; in the past these have included: Christmas, St George's Day, Chinese New Year, Diwali, Norooz (Persian New Year), etc.

** If you have any suggestions regarding themes for the cafe, do please let us know.

** If you are in trouble or have a problem you need to work through there are many different avenues for help and advice. Your avenue for advice would obviously depend on the nature of your problem. For example: your personal tutor, the Chaplaincy, the police, university counsellors, staff members trained as ‘Listening Ears’

** If you are struggling with your studies or getting behind with your academic work speak to your supervisor or personal tutor, they are there to help you!

** If you have been the victim of a crime, please report this to the police as soon as possible. Dial 101 to report a theft or something of a non urgent nature. ONLY dial 999 if it is a genuine emergency in which you need urgent medical care, immediate police assistance or the fire brigade.

** If you have been the victim of a crime or an injustice, you can also talk to the Police Community Support Officer who serves the campus. Or speak to your relevant Student Centre, the Medway Campus Chaplaincy, or seek advice from the Student Union.

** If you are struggling with an on-going health issue or feel isolated or depressed the Student Centre will help you to make an appoint-ment to talk to a member of the Chaplaincy Team or one of the University Counsellors. The Student Centre can also help you with advice regarding ‘extenuating circumstances’.

Welcome to Medway

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