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Academic Year AbroadFor adults and Students aged 16 & above
EF International Language Centers
www.ef.comImportant Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.
Accreditations and Memberships
The EF International Lan-guage Centers in London,
Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol
and Bournemouth are:
EF Dublin is accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers
in the USA are members of:
The EF Interna-tional Language
Centers in the USA are accredited by:
The EF International Language Cent-
ers in Sydney, Brisbane
and Perth are accredited by:
EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qual-ité Français Langue
Etrangère.
EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited by Languages Canada.
All EF Courses are certified by Southern
New Hampshire University.
EF Education is an active participant in
the Comité Européen de Normalisation.
The EF International Language Centers
in Brisbane and Perth are mem-
bers of:
The EF International Language Centers in
Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are
accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge,
Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are
members of:
All EF Courses are recognized by Hult
International Business School.
Federation of International Youth
Travel Organizations.
EF Bristol
From historical sites to modern music, Bristol is
a dynamic and cultural southwestern city with
an energetic student scene and the English
countryside just moments away by train.
Contact details:Custom House, Queens SquareBristol, BS1 4JQ, UK
Watch a video
Or visit us atFacebook.com/EFBristol
Bristol
Section ......Topic
1 ........... Introduction to EF
2 ........... Welcome to the UK
3 ........... Weather watch
4 ........... Travel & transfer service
5 ........... School information
6 ........... Academics
7 ........... Accommodation & meals
8 ........... Money matters
9 ........... Phones, faxes & Internet
10 ......... Health care & insurance
11 ......... School activities & excursions
12 ......... Transportation
13 ......... Expectations
14 ......... UK culture & living tips
15 ......... Adjusting to a new culture
16 ......... EF school calendar & holidays
17 ......... Checklist
Contents - Bristol
Dear Student
Thank you for choosing to study at EF International
School of English in Bristol. Our school is situated in
a newly renovated historic building located on a pres-
tigious square in the heart of the city. The city centre
with its shops, restaurants and sightseeing attractions
is a 5-minute walk away.
Bristol is the largest city in South West England, situ-
ated in beautiful countryside close to Bath, Oxford
and the seaside towns of England’s South Coast. It
is a creative, dynamic city, well known for its excellent
exhibitions, theatre, live music and cinema. The city
has two universities and has great shopping and
lively nightlife for its large student population. Bristol’s
harbourside is lined with waterside cafe bars, art gal-
leries and exciting attractions. London is just a short
train ride away.
At EF Bristol you will improve your English, experience
the British way of life, and meet new friends from all
over the world. Our staff look forward to welcoming
you and making sure you have a wonderful stay that
you will never forget.
Best wishes,
Romy Nelis, School Director
EF International Language Center, Bristol
3 Bristol, UK
2. Welcome to the UK!Congratulations on choosing one of the most
interesting and varied countries to study in!
Britain’s character has been shaped by its
position as an island. It has not been success-
fully invaded since 1066 and its people have
developed their own distinctive traditions.
The Roman invasion of AD43 lasted for 350
years and helped bring culture and civilization
to the islands. This was soon replaced by the
culture and language of the Northern European
settlers that followed.
For a small island, Great Britain encompasses
much variety in its regions. Scotland, Wales and
Northern Ireland are ruled through London but
they remain separate countries from England.
Many have their own regional language as well
as English. Even the landscape, architecture
and food can vary from region to region, from
the mountains of Wales and Scotland to the
rolling hills of the south and west and from
the haggis of Scotland through to the fish and
chips of England.
Over three quarters of the land is set aside
for agriculture but during the 19th and 20th
centuries there was a huge growth in the urban
population. Britain became the first industrialised
nation and thousands of people moved from the
countryside to the towns and cities near mines,
mills and factories. The effect of this can still
been seen today with many of Britain’s streets
containing small residential terraced housing that
was originally built to house the influx of people.
The British love their countryside and animals.
There is a great enthusiasm for country and city
parks with many wildlife nature reserves across
the country. This even extends to the home
where many gardens are lovingly tended and it
is common to find a cat or dog as a pet.
British cities are melting pots for people from
all over the world. Since the 1950s hundreds of
thousands of immigrants came from the former
British colonies in Africa, Asia and the Carib-
bean. This ensured a steady supply of labour
into the country. Today nearly 10 per cent of
Britain’s 58 million people are from non-white
ethnic groups and over half of these were born
in Britain. In larger cities such as London, this
figure reaches nearly 40 per cent. As a result
Britain boasts a wide range of music, art, food
and religion - giving you the student exciting
new experiences.
When you are studying you will notice how Britain
has changed over the years. While still holding
on to traditions such as the Royal family and the
legal and Parliamentary systems, Great Britain
will offer you the chance to experience varied
historical, cultural and vibrant ways of life. We
believe that living abroad and learning a language
will give you valuable insights into the culture,
customs and history of your host country and
give you many essential skills to take home.
3. Weather WatchThe weather in Bristol is generally mild.
There are often sunny days during the sum-
mer months of May, June, July, August and
September. The weather can vary and the
morning may start off gloomy and damp, and
by the afternoon the sun can be shining and
the temperature soaring. Winters can be long
and damp. Snow is unusual, but there are often
cold, clear, frosty days.
Temperatures range from:
Spring: 5° to 18°C (41° to 64°F)
Summer: 12° to 26°C (54° to 79°F)
Autumn: 6° to 22°C (43° to 72°F)
Winter: 2° to 12°C (36° to 54°F)
4. EF Transfer ServiceTransfer service
Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be
confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service
from the airport to your accommodation for an
additional fee. We highly recommend that you
take advantage of this service.
At least one month before your arrival, you
must inform the EF Office in your home country
1. Introduction to EFEF Education First welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language where it is natively spoken. Our innovative curriculum, the EF Efekta™ System, integrates face-to-face learning in a classroom with studying outside the classroom using the interactive learn-ing tools in our online iLab. An intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activi-ties results in a fast and fun way to learn a language.
EF students come from diverse back-grounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for years to take advantage of this opportunity.
A large percentage of EF students apply their new language skills by taking a recog-nized exam, such as Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS. Successful completion of such exams provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavors. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives while im-proving language and study skills. Students wishing to study at university can access information and make informed academic choices through our EF University Place-ment Service.
A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international com-munity where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.
4 Bristol, UK
of the exact details of your flight (airline, flight
number, date and time).
When you arrive, pass through customs and
wait at the arrival area for an EF Representa-
tive to meet you. Do not go to another part
of the airport unless an EF staff member tells
you to. If, after approximately 30 minutes you
still have not met with your greeter, go to the
information desk to ask for help or call the EF
school emergency number for assistance. You
will receive the emergency number and other
important contact information from your local
EF office prior to departure.
We would ask you to be extra vigilant on ar-
rival at the airports as there have been a few
incidents where students have been picked
up by Taxi Touts, who frequently target foreign
students. They convince them they are EF Taxi
drivers, drive the students to their destination
and then charge them for the transfer telling
them that they can then claim this money back
from the school. This is obviously not the case,
so please make sure that you do not go with
any driver who is not holding an EF sign.
Independent Travel
If you wish to make your own way to your ac-
commodation, the best route to take depends
on which airport you arrive at.
❚ Bristol International Airport is 8 miles south of
the city centre. You can catch the Bristol Inter-
national Flyer express coach service to the city
centre (the journey time is approx 30 minutes).
❚ If you fly into London, you can take the
National Express coach service from London
Heathrow Airport (approx 2 hours) or from
London Gatwick (approx 3.5 hours).
When you arrive at the Bristol bus station you
can take a taxi to your accommodation.
5. School InformationThe School Director is assisted by an accom-
plished staff of teachers and administrators.
There is also an Activities Coordinator who
organises EF activities and excursions.
The school offers the following facilities:
❚ iLab computer rooms for classes
and self-study
❚ Free Wi-Fi Internet and email access
❚ Cafeteria
❚ Outdoor courtyard
❚ Fax
❚ Noticeboards to tell you what is happening
6. AcademicsEF language courses give students the opportu-
nity to study the English language and the local
culture for as long, and with as much intensity,
as suits the student and his or her needs.
EF Level Placement Test
Within 24-hours after booking your course,
you’ll receive your personalized EF username
and password for the online EF campus called
My EF. Before traveling, you will take the EF
Level Placement test online. This test will mea-
sure your language level and ability, grammar
and listening comprehension abilities. Using
your test results, our academic team will place
you in one of six different language levels.
As your English language skills become stron-
ger, you will be promoted into the next language
level. You may speak with your teacher if you
feel you have been placed into the wrong level.
Orientation
During your orientation you will receive your
class schedule and other important information
about the school and the city. Fun activities are
planned to help you meet students and staff.
General English Classes
General English classes focus on the develop-
ment of the four skills of speaking, listening,
reading and writing. They also include work on
grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. Each
lesson is 40 minutes in length.
Special Interest Classes
Depending on your course type you may also
select a number of special interest (SPIN)
classes. SPINs allow you to improve your
English through the study of a wide range of
subject options. Admission to some of these
will depend on academic and linguistic level
and availability of places. The selection of SPIN
classes varies throughout the year and a stu-
dent may not be able to repeat the same SPIN
class. Each lesson is 40 minutes in length.
Class size
The average class size is 15 students with a
maximum of 17 students.
Class Schedule
Classes will be scheduled between 8.30 am
and 7.30 pm 5 consecutive days per week and
may be in the morning or the afternoon.
Peak Summer Season Timetabling
During the summer between the first week of
July and the third week of August, the school
is open for classes Monday through Saturday.
Your schedule will be either Monday to Friday
or Tuesday to Saturday between the hours
of 8.30 am and 7.30 pm. Your timetable will
confirm your schedule.
Attendance
You are expected to attend all classes.
Consistent failure to attend class, for what-
ever reason, may result in expulsion from the
program with no refund of course fees. In order
to be eligible for an EF certificate, students
are expected to participate in class and must
attend at least 80% of all classes.
Please note: EF complies with UK Border Agen-
cy regulations regarding periods of absence.
Homework
You are expected to complete all assignments
set by your teachers in General English and
Special Interest classes. If you are taking an
examination preparation class you should ex-
pect at least one hour of homework per night.
Assessment
You will be assessed at regular intervals through-
out the course. Assessment is based on atten-
dance, participation, attitude and performance.
Course books
As part of your academic program, you’ll be
expected to buy the books and classroom
materials that you will use in class. The exact
number of books that you’ll need is determined
by your academic level, progress and choice of
special interest classes. If you wish to buy ad-
ditional books you may need more money. The
books you buy are yours to keep, write in and
take home with you for future reference.
iLab Learning
All English language school courses include
six iLab sessions per week. iLab sessions
complement and reinforce classroom learning
in an interactive online learning environment.
5 Bristol, UK
Please note: iLab is not included in the EF
Basic Course.
Exams
You may enrol for several different public
examinations during your course. For example,
Cambridge, TOEIC and TOEFL exams are all
popular with students. These must be taken
at an external examination centre and booked
several months in advance. You will need to pay
fees to register for public exams in the UK. This
is typically £50 to £100 for each exam. Advice
as to the most appropriate examination to sit
will be given to you by your Director of Studies.
Cancellation of course or school transfer
If you decide to downgrade, cancel or transfer
your course to another EF school within the
UK, please talk to our Customer Support team.
They will advise you of any transfer charges
and visa restrictions.
EF University Placement Service
EF International Language Centers offer a uni-
versity placement service that provides expert
advice on applying for university in the UK and
Ireland. If you are interested in continuing your
studies, you are encouraged to talk with the
University Pathways Manager at your school.
University Transfer Credit
Through our partnership with Southern New
Hampshire University (SNHU), EF students
may be eligible to receive university credit for
their coursework.
7. Accommodation & MealsHomestay and student residence accommo-
dation are available at the EF Bristol school. All
homestay and student residence issues during
your stay should be directed to the Accom-
modation staff.
Homestay accommodation
Students staying in a homestay will have
the opportunity to experience British life and
also have the chance to practice their new
language skills with fluent English speakers.
Students who choose homestay accommoda-
tion should do so because they want to live
in a home environment and interact with the
members of the household.
Our homestay hosts choose to host interna-
tional students because they want to learn
about other cultures and people. Students
who live in a homestay must respect the
family and their home. Likewise, the hosts will
respect the student. As you get an in-depth
look at British life, you will realize that British
culture is not the same as your culture, and
therefore, home life may be quite different. The
relationship between husband and wife, the
roles of family members, the relationship with
or discipline of children and the relationship
with pets are just some examples. If you are
open-minded about these differences, life in
the family will be a great learning experience.
There is no stereotypical family. Hosts may
consist of 1) mother and father without chil-
dren, 2) single mother with children, 3) mother,
father and children, 4) retired couple, 5) wid-
owed woman, or 6) single father with children.
You are responsible for all transportation costs
to and from the host’s home. You may be
placed up to one hour away from the school.
Before you leave your home country, please
let your homestay hosts know the date and es-
timated time of your arrival to ensure they are
at home to welcome you when you arrive.
Laundry and Facilities
Your homestay hosts will change your towel
and sheets every week. You are responsible
for your own clothes. If you want to use your
host ’s washing facilities, there will usually be a
charge of approximately £5.
You are responsible for your personal items
such as shampoo, conditioner, soap and
other items. In England not all bathrooms have
showers – it is very common to just have a
bath. You will probably share the bathroom
with others. This means that you may need to
be flexible about shower and bath times. Very
few students have their own bathroom. If you
want to take a long time in the bath or shower
check to see that nobody else is waiting to use
the bathroom.
Always remember to keep your room clean
and tidy. Make your bed, and put your belong-
ings away. You are also responsible for clean-
ing up after snacks and for washing your own
dishes after breakfast. It is also polite to help
clear the table after dinner.
Telephone and Internet use
To call your friends and family you will need to
use a prepaid telephone card, which is available
at the school. Your family can telephone you, but
please ask them not to call too late. Remember
that you are sharing the telephone with the rest
of the people in the home. Do not spend more
than 15 minutes on the phone at any time.
Although it cannot be guaranteed, some
homestays may have Internet access in the
home. In such cases, students wanting to use
this facility may be asked for a small contribu-
tion of approx £5 per week.
Requests for change
Homestay accommodation is booked for your
entire course. You may only change homestays
for very serious reasons. Requests for change
will be considered on an individual basis. No
6 Bristol, UK
refunds will be granted for students who choose
to leave their homestay for personal reasons.
Meals in a homestay
Your homestay hosts provide breakfast and
dinner Monday to Friday, and all meals on
the weekends. You are responsible for your
own lunch during the week. Meals will only be
provided when you are home to participate.
Please be sure to call your hosts if you are
going to be late or if you are not going to be
home for a meal. There will be no refund for
meals not taken at home with your family.
There is an EF Cafeteria at the school, where you
can purchase food and drinks throughout the day.
Residence deposit
On arrival at our school you will be required
to pay a £100 deposit. This deposit covers
such things as lost keys, damage or fines. Any
deductions from this deposit will be notified
to you at the time. If there are no deductions
made, the whole amount will be refunded at
the end of your programme.
Residential accommodation
You may decide to live in our international stu-
dent residence, which is conveniently located
near the school and city centre. Living in the
student residence will give you the opportunity
to have a truly multi-cultural experience, living
with students from all over the world.
8. Money MattersCurrency
British currency is in pounds sterling (abbreviated
to GBP, Great British Pound, or nicknamed quid
by the British). The symbol for this currency is £.
The pound is divided into 100 pence (abbrevi-
ated as p). If you purchase something that is
95 pence, for example, you will probably be
told that the amount is “95 pee” rather than 95
pence. You will see amounts written this way:
“95p” or “£0.95.”
Banknotes come in denominations of £5, £10,
£20, and £50. They will each be a different size
and a different color to allow you to tell them
apart more easily. Coins come in denomina-
tions of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 pence, as well
as 1 and 2 pounds.
Banks
For short stays it is not possible to open a
bank account, however It is a good idea to
open a bank account if you will be staying
more than 6 months. If required you can hire
a safety deposit box at a bank, please ask the
EF office for advice.
Spending money
We recommend that you bring about £100 for
your first days in England to cover costs such
as travel to school, lunch, and telephone calls.
In addition, you should bring money to pay for
your learning materials used in class.
We recommend that you bring £100 - £150 for
each week you plan to stay in England. This
should cover lunches, laundry, travel to and
from school, and EF Activities mid-week. For
weekend excursions, shopping and depending
on what you choose to do during your leisure
time, you may need to bring more. Please
also remember you will need to pay for any
language proficiency exams you plan to take.
Only carry as much money as you need for
one day – remember thieves exist everywhere
in the world! The safest way to carry money is
traveller’s cheques. Many places also accept
major credit cards.
Changing money
When changing money in the UK always go to
a recognised bank or travel agent. Commis-
sion rates will vary so check first for the best
rate. We regret that we are unable to change
money in the school.
Credit Cards
EF strongly recommends that students travel
with either a Visa or MasterCard. Credit cards
enable you to rent cars, reserve hotel rooms,
and do various activities, which may be more
difficult with cash or traveller’s cheques.
9. Telephones, fax & InternetTelephone
All long distance calls must be collect calls,
charged to the person you are calling, or
charged to a prepaid telephone card, which
can be purchased at the EF school. We
recommend that students expecting to stay for
a long period of time come with or purchase a
mobile phone.
Fax
All EF schools use fax machines to conduct
business. You can send and receive faxes from
this machine for a small fee, although you are
encouraged to limit the use. When you receive
mail or faxes at the school, these will be kept at
the front desk for you until you pick them up.
There are also some places close to the school
that send faxes and charge for the time used.
Ask the front desk for directions to the nearest
fax machine you can use.
Internet
The school is equipped with Wi-Fi wireless
Internet. Students are highly encouraged to
bring their personal laptop computers for email
and Internet use on the wireless network.
10. Health care and InsuranceThe EF staff can recommend nearby hospitals
and doctors offices if you need medical atten-
tion. Please ask the EF staff or your homestay
hosts for assistance if you need medical
attention. If you have any personal problems
there is always someone who you can talk to
confidentially.
Insurance
All students traveling to the UK are required
to have medical and accident insurance upon
starting their program of study. You will still
have to pay for some treatment if you see a
doctor but you can claim the money back from
the insurance company. Please note: You will
need to keep all receipts in order to receive
money back from the insurance company.
All students are required to bring proof of insur-
ance in English to show that they have proper
health insurance when a medical emergency
occurs. Students who do not bring proof of in-
surance will be required to purchase insurance
through EF at the school.
Erika Travel Insurance
Because security is EF’s number one priority,
we have negotiated a comprehensive tailor-
made travel insurance package for EF students
with Erika Travel Insurance, an international
insurance expert. The policy protects you
against expenses incurred through accident
or illness, and provides coverage for loss or
theft of baggage and personal effects. It also
7 Bristol, UK
provides coverage against interruption of your
EF program due to illness as well as liability
and legal expenses.
The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika
Travel Insurance questions and claims. When
you are sick or injured the last thing you want
to do is deal with such issues. Let us help you!
11. Activities & ExcursionsExtracurricular activities contribute greatly to
your social and academic success. They not
only help you to relax after a day studying, they
also provide you with an opportunity to meet
and make friends from other classes, other
countries and other cultures. Your school’s ac-
tivities and trips give you the opportunity to apply
your life skills, practice English in real situations
and familiarize yourself with British culture.
Activity Programme
The EF Activities Coordinator arranges a regu-
lar schedule of local activities, day-trips, and
weekend excursions to area attractions. The
cost of these trips is not included in the tuition.
Weekly activities
We have a weekly programme of activities
ranging from cultural visits to museums and
galleries, sightseeing to Bristol’s tourist attrac-
tions, cinema visits and parties/club nights.
Many of these are either free activities or at
reduced discount rates. The Activities Coor-
dinator will also organise sports games and
tournaments, depending on student interest
and participation.
Weekend excursions
EF arranges weekend excursions and day trips
to local attractions. Not all trips are available each
month. The number of trips and the cost depend
on the time of year and the number of students
wishing to participate. Excursions can be paid in
cash, with traveller’s cheques or credit card.
Our excursions are organised at a minimum cost,
are great fun and extremely good value. You are
always accompanied by an EF staff member.
Typical activities and excursions
Excursions could range from daytrips to
destinations such as London or Salisbury &
Stonehenge, (cost between £20 and £30) to
weekend trips to Edinburgh, Dublin, Amsterdam
or Paris (cost between £120 and £160). These
prices are subject to change at any time.
Example of the Bristol activities schedule
These activities may differ from those on offer
during your stay here with us.Monday
❚ Welcome to Bristol for all new students!
❚ Free walking tour with the Activities Coordi-
nator at 2:30 pm
❚ Welcome Party at Po Na Na!
Tuesday
❚ Visit the Arnolfini Contemporary Arts Centre
to see art, film, dance, music and literature.
Free entrance to the galleries.
❚ Salsa the night away at Oceana nightclub!
Wednesday
❚ Live jazz at The Old Duke, just behind the
school. Join us for a traditional pint – meet at
7:30 pm
Thursday
❚ Come bowling for the afternoon - only £3
❚ The West End musical Joseph is coming to
Bristol! Book your theatre ticket for £20
Friday
❚ Half day trip to Bath including a visit to the
Roman Baths – £15
Saturday
❚ Daytrip to London with a guided tour – £25
Sunday
❚ Explore the stunning scenery around Bristol
with a day trip to the Cheddar Caves and
stop on the way back for some Cheese Tast-
ing – £25
Let us help you have fun!
It comes as no surprise that Bristol was short-
listed for the 2008 European City of Culture.
Galleries and Museums include: the Arnolfini
Contemporary Arts Centre, Bristol Museum
and Art Gallery, Royal West of England Acad-
emy of Arts, Explore @ Bristol (Science and
Discovery Museum), British Empire and Com-
monwealth Museum. Brunel’s SS Great Britain
is one of the world’s most famous ships, now
a museum in the Bristol dock where she was
built. Some of these attractions charge a small
entrance fee whereas others are completely
free of charge.
Parties, club nights and pub visits are held on a
regular basis as well as going to film and theatre
nights. The city has a wide range of activities,
so whatever your interests are, the EF Activities
Officer is more than happy to help. We will
organise anything of interest - just let us know
what you would like to do. Our staff will keep
you informed about what’s going on and show
you the most happening places of the time.
Whether booking theatre tickets, searching for
a cheap flight or planning a trip, the activities
office has the contacts and means to help you.
12. TransportationPublic transportation
Bristol has an excellent network of buses and
trains with good connections throughout the UK.
Buses
The Bristol bus system covers the city well and
offers an inexpensive way to travel around. The
bus station is situated on Marlborough Street and
there are numerous bus stops throughout Bristol,
with bus timetables and route information.
8 Bristol, UK
Taxis
Taxis are a convenient way to travel around the
Bristol area and are usually reasonably priced.
They can be found at the taxi rank outside of
the Temple Meads train station, and during the
day on St. Augustine’s Parade. Taxis can also
be ordered by telephone. Additional taxi costs
could be charged for luggage, travel late at
night, extra passengers and travel on
public holidays.
Trains
Bristol’s Temple Meads train station is located
close to the city centre and it is a ten-minute
walk away from the school. Bristol’s other train
station, Bristol Parkway, can be found to the
north of the city. Advance seat reservations on
the train can be booked if required.
Transportation from accommodation to school
You are responsible for all transportation costs
to and from your accommodation.
All our homestays are located near a bus
route, which will bring you to the school. The
longest time the journey should take is one
hour. Your hosts will tell you which bus to take.
If you are living in an EF residence, a member
of staff will show you how to get to the school.
13. ExpectationsExpectations are a normal part of anticipating a
new experience. Remember that many of your
expectations may have been formed by the
unreal world of TV and movies. Arrive at your
course centre with an open mind!
What you can expect from EF:
❚ Supportive staff, available for guidance and
encouragement.
❚ An academic program which combines lan-
guage, special interest, and culture-oriented
classes.
❚ Full program of local activities and excursions
at special EF rates.
❚ Accommodation in either homestay or stu-
dent residence.
❚ All designated meals.
❚ EF Academic Year Abroad Diploma for
Academic Year Abroad students with 80%
attendance per term and good academic
standing and academic records
❚ EF Course Certificate for International Lan-
guage Students with 80% attendance and
good academic standing.
❚ Preparation classes and/or materials for appro-
priate standardized language exams and avail-
ability of University Placement Service (UPS).
What EF expects of you:
❚ To develop a greater understanding of the
world around you.
❚ To attend at least 80% of all classes and to
do your best in class at all times.
❚ To be respectful of your homestay hosts, your
classmates, your teachers and your community.
❚ To keep your room and shared areas clean.
❚ To speak English at all times.
❚ To abide by all laws, rules and regulations of
your host country, state, campus and school.
What you can expect from your homestay hosts:
❚ A comfortable, clean place to live.
❚ Prepared meals or accessibility to food to
prepare yourself according to the meal plan.
❚ Access to the school in approximately one
hour by public transportation. All transporta-
tion costs are your responsibility.
14. UK culture & living tipsVisas
You may need to obtain a visa before your
journey if you are not a European Community
national. Check with your EF office and local
British Consulate well before you set off.
Working in the UK
All EU passport holders are entitled to work in
the UK without restrictions. If you have a Tier 4
General Student visa you are able to work up to
20 hours per week. This does not apply if you
come to the UK as a Student Visitor. The same
rules apply for students wishing to participate
in an internship during their course. If you want
the possibility of working or doing an internship
make sure you apply for the right visa.
Customs
Read the customs notices carefully. Do not
try to bring any prohibited substances into the
country. We cannot help you if you are stopped
by customs for illegal importation of anything
that is against the law in Great Britain.
Immigration
If you are not a European Community national,
you will need to produce the following docu-
ments when you arrive in Great Britain.
❚ your passport (valid for at least six months
after the end of your EF course).
❚ appropriate visa for your stay
❚ proof of your ability to meet the cost of the
course, to maintain yourself and any depen-
dents without needing to work during your stay.
❚ your EF confirmation letter showing that you
have enrolled for a full time course of study.
Food
British food today has influences from abroad
introducing a wider range of ingredients
and more adventurous cooking. While still
maintaining its love of more traditional dishes,
Britain now has one of the widest selections of
restaurants in the world.
Dos and Don’ts
You will be required to abide by national laws
as well as the rules of the EF school. Viola-
tions will lead to a verbal warning and possible
disciplinary action by the School Director.
The following are illegal in Great Britain:
❚ Drugs (non-medicinal)
❚ Alcohol if you are under 18 years old
❚ Buying tobacco if you are under 18 (or buy-
ing for someone who is under 18)
❚ Smoking law - no smoking in public build-
ings. Please note that smoking is against the
law in all public, enclosed and semi-enclosed
spaces in the UK.
❚ Shop-lifting
❚ Driving without insurance or a valid driving
license
❚ Offensive weapons (including pocket knives)
Please don’t break the law. If you do, you will
almost certainly be sent straight home on the
next available flight and you may even risk be-
ing sent to prison.
Travel outside of England
If you are planning to travel outside England
during your course you may need a visa.
Please ensure that you check any visa require-
ments before you leave your country to avoid
disappointment.
If your passport has a single entry visa and you
are studying for six months or less then you will
not be able to travel outside the UK. This visa
cannot be changed in the UK. It is strongly rec-
9 Bristol, UK
ommended that you apply for a Schengen Visa
before leaving your home country if possible.
This will give you free travel throughout many
European countries without the need to apply
for individual tourist visas in the UK.
Tipping
Tipping is customary for taxi drivers and in
restaurants where no service charge is added
to the bill. 10% is normally acceptable. In res-
taurants where service is included, bars, pubs
and cafes, there is no need to leave a tip.
Appliances and electricity
Remember that the mains voltage in Great
Britain is 220-240. You may need to bring an
adaptor if you wish to use any of your own
electrical appliances.
Recommended reading
❚ Lonely Planet Britain, Lonely Planet Publica-
tions Ltd is a great user friendly guide for
where to go, what to do, how to get around,
where to stay and what to eat.
Recommended websites
❚ www.thisisbristol.co.uk
❚ www.visitbristol.co.uk
15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of
students who have come together to learn
English. It is also a multi-cultural group of
young adults who are eager to share their
own culture and learn the culture of their host
country and fellow classmates.
One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts,
traditions and practices of a specific community
or population. Our culture affects how we view
ourselves, how we relate to others and what we
value as important in life. We are often unaware
of how much our culture affects our lives.
You may have already had some exposure to
the new culture you are about to experience.
You may have seen television shows, read
books, or studied in school about the UK.
While some parts of this culture may already
seem familiar to you, experiencing a new
culture first-hand will prove exciting. You will be
meeting students from all over the world who,
like you, are looking forward to spending a year
learning and living a language, both inside and
outside the classroom.
As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience
periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are
uncomfortable. Culture shock is what some-
times happens when we try to meet challenges
of our new culture by using the values, beliefs,
and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to
a new culture, we must learn that cultural differ-
ences are merely different - not right or wrong.
It is a good idea to bring traditional objects
from your culture to share with other students
and your host to teach them about
your country.
Tips on coping with change
Remember that change does not come with-
out some effort! We humans need a certain
amount of stress to motivate us to learn new
ways of being. Learning always involves some
form of change. You should try the following:
❚ While you might be tempted to surround
yourself with things that are familiar to you, try
not to isolate yourself by being only with others
from your home country. Keep reaching out to
your host, roommates and other students.
❚ Put off making major decisions such as an
accommodation change, until you feel more
“at home” with the culture in general.
❚ Talk to us about your worries or problems.
EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to
know about any problem you may have so
that we can help you.
❚ Set goals, no matter how big or small, and
accomplish them! You will feel good about
yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the
negative feelings associated with culture
shock. For example, set a goal that you will
speak English at all times.
❚ Remind yourself that you came to this
country to experience a new culture, to meet
others and to explore your new surroundings.
Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on
the days before leaving your home country
when you were excited about your new ad-
venture. Try to refocus this former excitement
towards your experience.
Keeping a journal
One way to keep track of emotions and
changes that take place over the year is to
keep a journal. By recording your experiences
and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able
to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will
have a record of your academic and personal
progress to look back on in days and years to
come. Be sure to note changes in:
❚ Language skills
❚ School performance and involvement
❚ Campus/host adjustment
❚ Individual learning and growth
Keeping a journal will help to remind you that
culture shock is truly a temporary phase
of adjustment.
Bring pictures and items from home
If you have room in your suitcases for some
music, a costume, pictures, or some typi-
cal crafts, it would be good to show other
students, as well as to decorate your room
to make it seem like home. We have seen
costumes and drums from Korea, dancing and
music from Austria and a piñata and tortillas
from Mexico. Please bring pictures of your
friends, family and surrounding area.
Important telephone numbers
16. EF School CalendarAcademic Year Schedule
The Academic Year is divided into three terms.
(See the applicable start date below for your
program’s specific term and break schedule).
January 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan
Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar
Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar
Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun
Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012
Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug
Departure: 18 Aug 2012
April 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr
Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun
Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep
Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012
Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov
Departure: 1 Dec 2012
June 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 8 Jun - Sun 10 Jun
Term 1: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep
Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 2: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec
Semester Departure: 17 Nov 2012
Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan
Term 3: (Year) Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Feb
Departure: 9 Feb 2013
September 2012
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep
Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec
Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan
Term 2: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar
Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013
Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar
Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May
Departure: 1 June 2013
January 2013
Academic Year and Semester Program
Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan
Term 1: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar
Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar
Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun
Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013
Holiday: Sat 8 Jun - Sun 16 Jun
Term 3: (Year) Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug
Departure: 17 Aug 2013
Please note: there will be no classes on
public holidays.
School holidays
The EF International Language Centers in the
UK recognize the following public holidays
when there will be no classes. If your arrival
falls on one of these dates, please check with
the school staff upon your arrival for an exact
orientation schedule.
2012
1 January - New Year’s Day
6 April - Good Friday
9 April - Easter Monday
7 May - Early May Bank Holiday
4 June - Spring Bank Holiday
5 June - Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
27 August - Summer Bank Holiday
25 December - Christmas Day
26 December - Boxing Day
2013
1 January - New Year’s Day
29 March - Good Friday
1 April - Easter Monday
6 May - Early May Bank Holiday
27 May - Spring Bank Holiday
26 August - Summer Bank Holiday
25 December - Christmas Day
26 December - Boxing Day
17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where neces-
sary) It’s a good idea to make copies of
these and pack them in your suitcase
just in case. You don’t need to carry your
passport with you while you are in the UK
but you must keep it and your other docu-
ments in a safe place while you are in the
country.
■ All original documents submitted for your
visa application, if you are travelling on an
Adult student visa (Tier 4).
■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student
identification cards, travel cards and other
possible documents
■ Flight ticket
■ Luggage correctly labeled
■ EF Confirmation letter & other
EF documents
■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,
especially the Health Certificate
■ Medical and travel insurance documents
with proof of insurance in English. If you
have secured Erika Travel Insurance from
EF, you do not need to have anything
translated.
■ Basic medical supplies, any medication
you take regularly and a spare pair of con-
tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.
■ An International Driving License if you are
planning on hiring or buying a car.
■ Local currency for first week and for any
learning materials that are not included in
the cost of the course.
■ Money in the form of an ATM card
(Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards
and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring
large amounts of cash in any currency!).
■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-
ances you plan to bring with you.
■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.
■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.
■ Personal sports equipment.
■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.
■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.
Homestay host’s or student residence name:
________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence address:
________________________________________
Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):
________________________________________
EF Sales Office telephone number:
________________________________________
EF School telephone number:
________________________________________
EF School emergency telephone number:
+44 7798 631207________________________________________
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