predeparture bristol ls 2012

At-BristolArnolfini Arts Centre

Queens Square

BroadmeadUniversity of Bristol

Brandon HillNature Park

Castle Park

Victoria Park

Watershed Media Centre

Bristol Industrial Museum

Temple MeadsRailway Station

www.ef.com

LanguageCourses AbroadFor adults and students aged 16 & above

EF International Language Centers

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 Centers 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.

Important Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.

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


Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr

Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 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


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


Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep

Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec

Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan


Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013


Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May

Departure: 1 June 2013

January 2013


Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan



Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun

Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013


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


29 March - Good Friday



27 May - Spring Bank Holiday




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________________________________________

Important telephone numbers

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klis

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16. EF school calendar & holidaysSchool 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


6 April - Good Friday



4 June - Spring Bank Holiday

5 June - Queen’s Diamond Jubilee




2013


29 March - Good Friday



27 May - Spring Bank Holiday




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_________________________________________

Additional notes or numbers:

_________________________________________

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

_________________________________________

predeparture bristol ls 2012

Documents

ef bristol

ef courses

ef nice

ef dublin

ef school calendar holidays17

dynamic city

largest city

school information6