International Guide

Travelling to Colchester 04Why Choose Colchester 06English Language School 08Level 3 Vocational Courses 12Undergraduate & Postgraduate 14Student Life 16Colchester & Surrounding Areas 20International Office 22

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Information on Tuition Fees and Refunds are inserted in the back of this booklet, if you have not received this information please email: international@colchester.ac.uk

Produced by the International Office at Colchester Institute in November 2012 Designed by Greg Barrett & Pietro Marano (BA (Hons) Graphic Design, Year 2).‘Great care was taken in compiling the information in this brochure, and the details were accurate at the time of printing, it is intended as a general guide to the courses and facilities offered by Colchester Institute and does not form any part of a contract’

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Colchester Institute is a member of English UK. ‘The British Council inspected and accredited Colchester Institute in May 2012. The Accreditation Scheme assesses the standards of management, resources and premises, teaching and welfare and accredits organisations which meet the overall standard in each area inspected (see www.britishcouncil.org/accreditation for details). The English language teaching department of this college of further education offers courses in general English for adults. The inspection report noted a need for improvement in the areas of publicity. Strengths were noted in the areas of staff management, quality assurance, learning resources, course design, learner management, teaching and care of students. The inspection report stated that the organisation met the standards of the Scheme.’ Colchester Institute is licensed under Tier 4 of the UK Border Agency’s Points Based System and has been awarded Highly Trusted Sponsor status.

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Located in the East of England our college has excellent transport links with London and the North and South East of England.

Travelling to Colchester Institute

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Colchester •ESSEX

Norwich •

London •Dover •

Central LondonApproximately 55 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street Station.

Stansted AirportApproximately 50-55 minutes by taxi, coach or private car.

Gatwick AirportApproximately 100 minutes by train, taxi or private car.

Heathrow AirportApproximately 100 minutes by train, taxi or private car.

Ebbsfleet InternationalApproximately 40 minutes by taxi or private car.

Harwich Port (ferries to and from Holland, Denmark and European locations)Approximately 25 minutes by train and 35 minutes by private car or taxi. For directions to our Colchester campus visit www.colchester.ac.uk

Colchester Institute is one of the largest publicly funded vocational colleges of further and higher education in the East of England and offers a wide range of courses to help you with your education and chosen career. Every year Colchester Institute welcomes international students from many different countries. International students choose Colchester Institute for many different reasons and these include lower cost of living, smaller class sizes, one to one support from tutors, opportunity to experience British education and culture, making new friends, quiet countryside environment and the beautiful East Anglian coastline. Approximately 7% of the students studying at Colchester Institute are originally from outside of the UK, this works very well as it offers opportunities for international students to improve their English language skills quicker and make friends with British students.

6 >>>>>>Why Choose Colchester Institute?

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Students have provided us with details of their best achievements while studying at Colchester Institute

“There are several, but time management and working in groups efficiently was a big gain for me”. - Tobee - student from Japan who studied National Diploma in Popular Music

“I think the feeling that I can communicate in English almost without problem.” - Gabriel – student from Chile who studied English as a Foreign Language

“At Colchester Institute l was nominated for an award and l won a national and regional award for outstanding student of the year; I achieved a good grade of 2:1 in my Bachelors degree; I was offered a place and awarded a scholarship at the University of Essex to study a Masters Degree in Public Health.”- Lela – student from Uganda who studied BA (Hons) Health and Social Care

Colchester Institute has been offering English classes for over 40 years, recruiting students from all over the world and achieving pass rates of over 90% in the past 10 years. Our classes have a mix of students from different backgrounds and ages, ensuring that lessons are a multi cultural learning experience. Whether you want to study to improve your CV, boost your job prospects, prepare for college or university or you just want to meet new people and share interests and hobbies from around the world, Colchester Institute has the English class for you. Our core staff are highly qualified and experienced language teachers, many of them are teacher trainers and some are established course book writers. With outstanding individual student support and enrichment activities, our English courses offer excellent opportunities to improve your English and experience British Culture. Studies will give students the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed. The English language department is a member of English UK.

8 >>>>>>Colchester Institute English Language School

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“Colchester Institute is famous for their English courses and is a really nice place to learn. The classes are small and friendly. For me I think if you are going to study a language it is best to live in that country and study with English teachers. In the summer I will return to my country to complete my degree, but hope to return to England to do my masters.” - Soo Yeon from South Korea

“There are good teachers, good teaching facilities and good academic achievement. I enjoy my studies and have met many new people. I would be happy to recommend Colchester Institute and would tell anybody thinking of applying that it would be one of the wisest decisions of their life. I think the UK is a clean, safe and orderly country to live in and the people are all very polite.”- Thomaskutty from India

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What will you StudyOur programmes are designed to match your individual ability and include:

-General English studies: Speaking, pronunciation, reading, writing, listening, grammar and vocabulary development.

-Additional studies: Exam preparation, Information technology, pronunciation, literature, Business English and aspects in Britain.

Exams available:Cambridge main suite exam courses (PET, FCE, CAE, CPE).

ESOL Skills for Life including citizenship modules.

IELTS exam preparation with the exam to be completed off-site.

Courses are full-time and students benefit from a minimum of 15 hours of teaching per week.

European Union students can also study English part-time and classes are offered during the daytime and evening and vary from 3-4 hours per week depending on examination. European students need to email efl@colchester.ac.uk for more information.

“I enjoy studying at Colchester Institute as the teachers are very nice and really helpful. I study with really friendly people and I think the college is amazing. Next year I will be continuing my studies at Colchester Institute on the photography course.”- Beata from Poland

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International Summer School Make it a summer to remember and come and join us to learn English, make new friends, experience British Culture, live in Britain’s Oldest Recorded Town and prepare your English for study. The Summer School offers full-time general English 15 hours per week and students can apply to study for a minimum 1 week up to a maximum of 4 weeks and dates are usually July – August, for more information you can visit our website: www.colchester.ac.uk/international/efl/summer-school

How to ApplyAll students applying to study full-time English or the Summer School need to complete the online application form and this is available at www.colchester.ac.uk/international/eflOnce we receive your completed application form we will contact you with further information. Students intending to enter the UK on a Tier 4 (general student) Visa will need to provide evidence of completing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) with their application; the result must meet the minimum requirement stated by the Home Office. For more information on the SELT and Tier 4 Visa requirements please visit the UK Border Agency website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/

Colchester Institute specializes in vocational qualifications and students can study courses in Business, Computing, Music, Art and Design, Photography, Fashion, Accounting, Hospitality, Sports, Travel and Tourism, Public Services, Music Technology, Performing Arts, Acting, Engineering, Construction and Administration. The courses are equivalent to A-levels and students completing these courses usually progress to Undergraduate study in the UK. A detailed list of qualifications and their entry requirements can be found in the back of this booklet. If you require more information please email:international@colchester.ac.uk.

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Entry RequirementsEntry requirements are listed under each course description and are generally given in terms of GCSEs. These are the UK standard qualifications that are awarded at the end of a student’s time at school. We are happy to consider qualifications from other countries for entry onto our courses and an assessment will be completed to confirm that your qualifications meet the entry requirement for the course.

How to Apply The International application form can be downloaded from our website at this link: www.colchester.ac.uk/sites/www.colchester.ac.uk/files/international-application-form.pdf, all students must submit copies of academic certificates and English language certificate with their completed application. Certificates that are in a language other than English must be given with certified translations.

“The course tutors at Braintree have been excellent, they taught us the principles of photography and gave us the space to explore and develop our own ideas. Their guidance and encouragement was invaluable when I was experimenting with different photographic techniques in the studio and learning how to evaluate my work.”- Wadhha - student from Saudi Arabia studied Extended Level 3 Diploma in Photography

We concentrate on degrees with strong links to employment, business and the professions. This applies to all our courses and your experience here will combine the demands of undergraduate education with the support and friendliness of a community college. Students can study courses in Management, Computing, Music, Art and Design, Photography, Fashion, Hospitality Management, Sport Management, Music, Performing Arts, Acting, Graphic Media, Childcare, Construction Management, Health and Social Care and Teacher Training. Colchester Institute’s degree programmes are validated by the University of Essex, which was established in 1965 and is now one of the leading academic institutions. A detailed list of qualifications and their entry requirements can be found in the back of this booklet. If you require more information please email: international@colchester.ac.uk.

14 >>>>>>Undergraduate and Postgraduate Courses (degree level)

“To someone considering to study a course at Colchester Institute, I would say go for it, it is such a great place to study. I always considered myself as a failure until l started studying at Colchester institute. There are so many opportunities, friendly academic environment and everyone so understands. I certainly gained my confidence, learning became more fun and doors were pushed open for me.”- Lela – student from Uganda studied BA (Hons) Health and Social Care

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Entry RequirementsEntry requirements are listed under each course description and are generally given in terms of UCAS points of level 3 qualifications. These are the UK standard qualifications that are awarded at the end of a student’s time at college. We are happy to consider qualifications from other countries for entry onto our courses and an assessment will be completed to confirm that your qualifications meet the entry requirement for the course. We have created a quick reference for overseas qualifications we commonly review and you can see if your qualification meets our entry requirement by visiting our website: www.colchester.ac.uk/international/entry-requirements.

How to ApplyApplications for our Undergraduate courses must be made via the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Applications can be made on-line from any country via the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com.

Details of all eligible courses are given at this site and Colchester Institute’s UCAS reference number is C75.Applications made via UCAS will be forwarded to us for processing and the offer and acceptance procedure is made through UCAS and not directly with us. For more information please visit our website: www.colchester.ac.uk/international/apply.

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Facilities include well-equipped computer suites, a well-stocked library, which has links to other local and national libraries, fully-equipped recording studios, and of course, extensive IT facilities. All students have an email account with Internet access, which is free and available throughout the working day. Food and drinks are available throughout the day from three restaurants and snack bars. Students also have free access to a fully equipped fitness gym and use of a Prayer room.

Student Life“I think the College is a very nice place with a very good learning environment. I like the extras as well like having access to the internet and computers at any given time. They have a very good gym which keeps you mentally and physically fit.”- Jaegan from Gambia studied Level 3 Engineering

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Enrichment and VisitsA wide range of social activities are available to International students. These are organised by the International Students Society, the Student Union and the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) department. The year begins with an International Orientation program. This program provides students with information on health and safety, opening bank accounts, tour of campus and tour of Colchester town and surrounding areas. This is followed by Fresher’s Week, which provides opportunities to mix with local students from all courses areas in the College. This includes parties, concerts, a barbeque and other activities. Later in September there is a ‘Welcome Party’ for

English Language and other International students. This gives you the chance to make friends with International students on other courses and there are further International parties at Christmas. Other International evening events include bowling, quiz nights, salsa classes and theatre visits. The English Language School organise a number of Saturday excursions each year. These have included visits to London, Cambridge, Oxford, Greenwich, Norwich and trips to see local villages around Colchester. A small charge is made for the coach; staff members and the International Student Society will act as your guides.

International Student SocietyJoin our International Student Society! The society meets to discuss and organize events and visits. Previous year students have visited London and Colchester Zoo and hosted Salsa and party nights. The Student Union welcomes students to apply to become President of the society each year. For more information email:student.union@colchester.ac.uk.

International Student SupportColchester Institute has a wide range of support services. These are available to help you with the practicalities of life as a student, as well as planning for your future career. Services include a trained counsellor, careers advisors and student achievement advisors. We also have dedicated International Officers who will be in contact with you throughout your studies at Colchester Institute and ensure that you are supported and achieving. All students paying International tuition fees are also entitled to complimentary English language classes, with the exception of those studying English as a Foreign Language.

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AccommodationColchester Institute has a database of shared houses, private rooms and University campus accommodation. All students must be over 18 years old to be eligible to apply and students must provide the accommodation officer with evidence of their offer. The type of accommodation you can apply for will depend on the course you will be studying. Students in the first year of an undergraduate course can apply for university accommodation or shared houses. Please note that you will be required to sign an 11 months contract, so it is not suitable for short courses. Students studying English language courses or below degree level can apply for Private rooms or Home stay accommodation. More information including how to apply and prices is available www.colchester.ac.uk/student/accommodation.

Colchester is Britain’s oldest recorded town and, before London, was the capital city of England. In addition to its Roman past, it has a large Norman castle and to the north lies the countryside made famous by the painter John Constable. The area offers a wide range of leisure and sporting activities, including golf, swimming, football, riding

20>>>>>>Colchester and Surrounding Areas

Photograph by Rodger Tamblyn

and sailing. Colchester is a University town with a thriving international community; local supermarkets offer local and international produce and Colchester regularly hosts many ethnically focussed events. There is plenty of history, shopping, arts and culture and restaurants to keep students and their visitors entertained.

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ShoppingColchester has a diverse range of shops and restaurants and these include 40 of Britain’s most popular retailers. Students can access the latest trends in British fashion as well as sample local and international cuisine in a number of well known restaurants.For more information visit: www.yourcolchester.co.uk Nightlife Colchester hosts a number of nightclubs, bars and traditional British style pubs, music can vary and many clubs and bars have themed nights. For more information visit: www.essextouristguide.com/Colchester_Night_Clubs.asp

Culture‘If you like art, you won’t have to look far to see it. Colchester is a cultural hotspot within the East of England and is home to many art galleries. In September 2011 a new multimillion-pound art gallery opened right in the heart of the town, FIRSTSITE showcases the work of regional, national and international artists. Outside of Colchester, art and craft can be found in several locations such as the Dedham Art & Craft Centre and Mistley Quay Workshops.’ For more information visit: www.visitcolchester.com/Culture-and-heritage.aspx

ReligionColchester has a richly diverse community and supports the faiths and practices of its residents. Colchester is home to a Mosque, a Synagogue, a Buddhist Centre and many churches. There is also a Hindu temple in Clacton on Sea. If you would like more information please email: international@colchester.ac.uk

Colchester Institute is a member of English UK and is fully accredited under the British Council, English in Britain accreditation scheme. Colchester Institute is registered with the UK Border Agency and holds a Highly Trusted Sponsor licence under the Points Based System for Immigration.

Colchester Institute welcomes students from around the World and our team of trained International Admissions Officers is your first point of contact. They will provide you with the information you need to make a successful application and work closely with the course tutor to ensure you choose the best programme of study for your career. The team will provide you with information on your study, immigration related to studying in the UK and organise and deliver the International Orientation programme. Staff will support you through your education and monitor your attendance and progress.

For information on English Language courses email: efl@colchester.ac.uk

For information on level 3 courses (below degree level) email: international@colchester.ac.uk

For Information on Undergraduate and Postgraduate courses email:international@colchester.ac.uk

Further information on immigration and pre-arrival information can be found on our website: www.colchester.ac.uk/international/advice

International Office at Colchester Institute

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What our Students say about us?

“The services l received were really great, honestly including everyone in the international office was willing to help and someone was always available each time l needed any information or had questions about anything (this was evident especially when l was processing visas). There was always someone to sit with and go through the paper work. The team were approachable and gave time to help.”

“The service was very good and helpful, I was nervous with the new experience, but with your welcome you gave me confidence.”

“The service was great, especially the international office really helped me through almost anything I’ve required, swiftly and kindly”

“I think Colchester is a nice town to live in, not as busy as a big city but still convenient for daily shopping and quiet environment. I will recommend Colchester Institute to my friends. In my opinion, the friendly atmosphere and supportive tutors will help students to progress a lot in their studying.”