Useful Information

Our school will be closed on the following dates:

 

2024 Bank Holidays

Date Day of the week Bank holiday
29 March Friday Good Friday
1 April Monday Easter Monday
6 May Monday Early May bank holiday
27 May Monday Spring bank holiday
26 August Monday Summer bank holiday
25 December Wednesday Christmas Day
26 December Thursday Boxing Day

Your First Day

Malvern House is committed to making sure your move to London goes smoothly. Your first day at our London English school will not just be about meeting your class and starting to learn English in London, we will help you settle in too.

First of all you will receive a warm, friendly welcome by Malvern House staff, who are here to help at all times. You will be invited to an ‘induction’ (Welcome Meeting) with members of the Malvern House team, who will give you information about the school, our facilities, and life in London. You will also be given a Welcome Letter and Student Progress Diary. After the break, you will join your class and meet your teacher and the other students.

On your first day you will get a warm welcome from our school staff and information on:

  • Key staff in the centre and who to go to for help
  • Malvern House facilities and a quick trip round the school and local area
  • Malvern House extra services e.g study counselling, welfare support, social programme, free seminars
  • Online welcome pack

ON YOUR FIRST DAY

STEP 1

Your first day is very important, so please arrive at the school EARLY:

Morning Students Afternoon Students
8:30 am (15/20/25 hours) 12:00 pm (20/25 hours)
02:00 pm (15 hours)

When you arrive in the school, please go to RECEPTION – Malvern House staff will show you where to go next.

Please bring these items with you on your first day:

  • Your passport with visa or national identity document for EEA students. (Please note,it might not be possible for you to join a class until we confirm your ID)
  • Confirmation of Enrolment letter
  • £35 to buy your first course book (or as deposit for a loan copy, for students studying for 3 weeks or less)

STEP 2

INDUCTION MEETING: Welcome meeting – introduction to the school and Malvern House staff. This will take place during the first part of the morning or afternoon.

All new students attend this important meeting, which covers information about Malvern House’s policies, as well as tips about your studies and living in London. Topics include:

You will be given a Student Progress Diary and a Welcome letter, which both provide information about the school. You will also have the opportunity to meet our key staff, who will be happy to answer any questions you may have. If you are under the age of 18, you will be given an extra induction to make sure you have all the information and support that you need.

STEP 3

YOUR FIRST CLASS: Please go to your first class after the break on your first day (10.30 am or 3.45 pm). Your teacher will be expecting you.

Cost of Living

Estimates vary as to how much students should budget for, and London, like other cities, can be as expensive as personal taste dictates.

Below is information on the average cost of living in the UK per week. Remember this is just an average example and costs vary from person to person, depending on your lifestyle.

If you wish to check how much these costs are in your own currency then have a look at www.xe.com.

Below is more specific information on the costs of certain items in the UK. Prices are based on average supermarket prices and can be either higher or lower depending on quality.

£ COST OF LIVING

  • Av transport cost per month – £135
  • School optional social programme – £100
  • Combo meal at fast food restaurant – £5
  • Av food cost per month – £265

Life in London

Malvern House provides support on all aspects of London life. We are here to help you before you leave home, when you arrive in London, and throughout your time studying with us.

At Malvern House we offer students the opportunity to buy Merlin Attraction tickets at a very competitive student rate. Please ask our team in the Study Centre, who will be happy to help.

For many students at Malvern House, it is their first time visiting the city. London is the capital city of the United Kingdom and people have lived here for more than 2,000 years. It is a very large city filled with opportunity and exciting things to see and do, sometimes it might be difficult to know where to start – this page will help you understand a little about living in London!

London Eye

The EDF Energy London Eye offers breathtaking views of London from high above the River Thames. See Big Ben towering above the Houses of Parliament, follow St. James Park as it sweeps down to Buckingham Palace. Is the Queen at home? You’ll spot the flag flying if she is. A Standard Ticket on the London Eye lasts for approximately 30 minutes, the time it takes for the London Eye to revolve completely. Relax in one of the 32 high-tech glass capsules and enjoy the London skyline at your leisure.

The London Eye 4D Experience is a groundbreaking 3D film with in theatre effects, such as wind, bubbles and mist, to make the 4D.

London Eye River Cruise

Take a London Eye River Cruise and see London from a different perspective. Enjoy a unique 40-minute circular sightseeing cruise on the River Thames with fascinating live commentary that brings the city to life, presented by specialist guides. Highlights include Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

Madame Tussauds

Filled with 14 exciting, interactive zones and the amazing Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie experience, Madame Tussauds London combines glitz and glamour with incredible history.

Walk down the red carpet and strike a pose with Kate Winslet, before challenging your favourite sportstars like David Beckham or Lewis Hamilton. Start your royal experience with an audience with the Queen, before planting a kiss on Prince William’s cheek.

For the brave, get face-to-face with scary serial killers in our live fear experience SCREAM. After a sneaky behind-the-scenes look at how our World-renowned sculptors create the figures, relax in our taxis and relive the rich history of London.

Then step up to your favourite Marvel Super Heroes before getting ready to experience the spectacular and exclusive Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie, where our Marvel Super Heroes battle it out to save London from impending doom.

London Dungeon

Exciting, scary and fun – Delve into the ancient capital’s bloody history at the London Dungeon. We know that when it comes to history – the horrible bits are the best. Experience live actors, dark history, thrilling rides and special effects… are you brave enough to face 90 minutes of London’s goriest past?

Prepare to face the most sinister characters from our past, from serial killer Jack the Ripper, barber Sweeney Todd and regal Bloody Mary. Feel the shadow of the black plague and the fearsome torture chamber.

Plus, with three thrilling rides, there is something for the whole family: Traitors Gate underground boat ride; Vengeance, the UK’s first 5D laser ride and the ever popular Extremis Drop Ride.

Enter the world of The London Dungeon and take a journey with twists, turns, screams and laughter – a fun day out, unlike any other.

Sealife

Dive in and be wowed by the many strange, beautiful and fascinating creatures of the deep as you journey through the amazing underwater world of the SEA LIFE London Aquarium. Prepare for astonishingly close views of everything from Gentoo Penguins to tropical sharks. To get any closer you’ll have to get wet!

The Tower of London

The ancient stones reverberate with dark secrets, priceless jewels glint in fortified vaults and pampered ravens strut the grounds. The Tower of London founded by William the Conqueror in 1066-7 is one of the world’s most famous fortresses and has seen service as royal palace, prison, armoury and even zoo! It is still home to the Crown Jewels and Beefeaters.

Hampton Court Palace

The flamboyant Henry VIII is most associated with this majestic palace, which he extended and developed in grand style after acquiring it from Cardinal Wolsey in the 1520s. Its many royal occupants have ensured the palace has fabulous furnishings, tapestries and paintings. It is set in 60 acres of formal gardens, which include the famous maze and the Great Vine.

Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace has been home to royalty for over 300 years. Take a journey back in time and discover the secrets of the last reigning Stuarts and the extravagance of the Georgians. Learn about the life of Queen Victoria in the 19th century and the fashion trends of the royals in the 20th century. Kids go free.

Banqueting House

Walk in the footsteps of a dazzling company of courtiers who once danced, drank and partied beneath the magnificent Rubens ceiling paintings. This revolutionary building was created for court entertainments, but is probably most famous for the execution of Charles I in 1649.

Kew Palace

Step inside this tiny doll’s house of a palace and sense the joys and sorrows of past royal lives in intimate detail, as King George III and his family come to life through a soundscape and display of fascinating personal artefacts.

At School

STUDENT AREA

Student relaxation area in the centre of the school, with vending machines for drinks and snacks and free access to computers for general use.

COMPUTERS

There is open access to computers for general use in the Student Area. Those in the Study Centre are for study purposes only.

LEARNER SUPPORT

A teacher is available twice a week for you to visit, you can get one-to-one advice about your studies, you can also ask the teacher for help on other things such as writing, or about life in the UK. Students are welcome to book a session with learner support and can do this at the reception desk.

EXTRA CLASSES

You can improve your English faster by joining some of our extra classes. There are several classes available, including: conversation, writing, pronunciation, and grammar. Sometimes special lessons are available such as nursing, media, and British culture. Please ask at reception if you are interested.

WI-FI

There is free WI-FI throughout the school and the password is: “Welcome2Malvern”

STUDY CENTRE

Quiet area for self-study with access to a wide range of books and materials for use in the Study Centre or on loan elsewhere on payment of a small deposit. Computers available for study use.

SOCIAL PROGRAMME

There are fun and interesting activities for you to join every week. Many of them are free and include games club, visits to places in London, quizzes, meals at restaurants, and more! All the information is on our Facebook page and you can find details all around the student area and study centre.

FOCUS GROUPS

Once a month, the principal meets the students to discuss their thoughts and feelings at the school. If you would like to, you can join. This is a great way to share your opinion and helps us to improve your school.

Before Leaving

Accommodation

You can book several types of accommodation through Malvern House or arrange your own accommodation. Many of our students will first book their accommodation through Malvern House and then move into a shared apartment with friends.

Note: Students arriving in the UK after 8pm must book a transfer if they stay in Malvern House accommodation.

Airport Transfer

For personalised service, book an airport transfer that will take you and your luggage, from the airport to your accommodation.

  • Return transfer packages are also available
  • Drivers will wait for 2 hours after the arrival of your flight. If you cannot locate your driver, please go to the airport Information Desk.

Drivers will carry a sign with your name on it. If you cannot see them, go to the airport Information Desk. Do not go with a driver from another company. Some unlicensed companies charge large amounts of money to newly-arrived foreigners at airports.

Travel Card

The travelcard in London is called Oyster and you can buy it before arriving in London. It allows you to travel on all public transport (Train, Overground, Buses, Tube, DLR). To buy your Oyster please click here.

If you study over 14 weeks you can apply for a student Oyster card, which provides you with a 30% student discount. This card can only be bought once you have arrived in London.

Advice on Renting Flats & Bedsits

Living in a flat or house with other students can be a really good experience. It gives you a chance to meet people who know the area and quickly make new friends. It also gives you lots of chances to practice using English!

www.crm-students.com
http://www.accommodationforstudents.com/
http://www.crm-students.com/crm-accommodation/london/

You can also find information about accommodation owned by private landlords from www.saferstudents.co.uk

Deposits

Remember that you will need to be able to pay the first month’s rent and an extra one or two month’s rent as a deposit before you can move in.  The landlord/lady will return the deposit to you when you leave as long as there is no damage to the flat and that nothing is missing from the inventory (the list of items which belong to the flat).

(Get more information at www.gov.uk)

Information landlords must give tenants

Within 30 days of getting your deposit, your landlord/lady must tell you:

  • the address of the rented property
  • how much deposit you have paid
  • how the deposit is protected
  • the name and contact details of the tenancy deposit protection (TDP) scheme and its dispute resolution service (so if you argue with each other there are rules to help you solve the problem)
  • their (or the letting agency’s) name and contact details
  • the name and contact details of any third party that’s paid the deposit
  • why they would keep some or all of the deposit
  • how to apply to get the deposit back
  • what to do if you can’t get hold of the landlord at the end of the tenancy
  • what to do if there is a dispute over the deposit

Insurance and Safety

It is a good idea to buy your own ‘contents insurance’.  Contents insurance covers only the things that belong to you, so in case of theft you will not lose everything.  You can also get insurance for items you take out of the house, like your phone, laptop, and wallet.Make sure that you always lock your room door if you move into accommodation with people that you do not know. Also, check that windows and doors to your room/accommodation have good locks.

It is the landlord’s responsibility to make sure that all gas and electrical equipment is properly installed and maintained.

Make sure that there are fire detectors in the house/flat, and if there is a gas boiler in the house/flat it is good to have a carbon monoxide detector.

Companies such as Endsleigh cater for students and short term insurance: https://www.endsleigh.co.uk/

Immobilise

You can also register your items for free on the national property database Immobilise. You can register any item that has a serial number, e.g. mobile phones, mp3 players, laptops etc. You can also register bicycles.

Just go to www.immobilise.com

Crime and Safety

London is a large international city, and so some of the areas are safer than others. While you are here make sure that you take care to hide any valuable objects like phones when out at night, and don’t have money on show if you don’t have to.

When you get to the school you can ask reception about anything to do with your area and they will try and help you. You can also find crime statistics in the area by looking at: www.crime-statistics.co.uk

Paying Council Tax

You will get a Council Tax bill if there is someone living in your accommodation who is not a full-time student, but your house/flat might still be able to get a discount.  Some Landlords will include this in your rent, so check when you first sign the paperwork.To be exempt from (not have to pay) Council Tax you must be a full time student. Please ask for a letter via Guided E-learning.

To count as a full-time student, your course must:

  • last at least 1 year
  • involve at least 21 hours study per week

If you are under 20 years old, your course must:

  • last at least 3 months
  • involve at least 12 hours study per week

The rules on Council Tax can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/council-tax/full-time-students

Tenancy Agreement

A tenancy agreement is a contract between you and a landlord/lady.It lets you live in a house/flat as long as you pay rent and follow the rules. It also sets out the legal terms and conditions of your stay in the accommodation. It is usually written on paperwork which you and the landlord/lady both get a copy of. Always ask for a copy and keep it safe!

A tenancy can either be:

  • Fixed-term (running for a set period of time, e.g. 6 months)
  • Periodic (running on a week-by-week or month-by-month basis)

What should be in a tenancy agreement

A tenancy agreement should include:

  • The rental price and how it is to be paid
  • Information on how and when the rent will be reviewed
  • The deposit amount and how it will beprotected
  • When the deposit can be fully or partly withheld (eg to repair damage you’ve caused)
  • The property address
  • The start and end date of the tenancy
  • Any tenant or landlord obligations (things you/they must do)
  • Which bills you are responsible for

It can also include information on:

  • Whether the tenancy can be ended early and how this can be done
  • Who is responsible for minor repairs
  • Whether the property can be let to someone else if you go away (sublet) or have lodgers (people who stay with you)

Citizens Advice has a guide on tenancy agreements:

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/england/your_family/housing/tenancy_agreements.htm

Your rights and responsibilities

In all privately rented houses or flats you will have certain rights and responsibilities. (Information from www.gov.uk)

Your rights

As a tenant, you have the right to:

  • Live in a property that is safe and in good condition
  • Have your deposit returned when the tenancy ends – and in some circumstances have itprotected
  • Challenge excessively high charges (e.g. bills you think are far too high)
  • Know who your landlord is
  • Live in the property undisturbed
  • See an Energy Performance Certificate for the property
  • Be protected from unfair eviction (being asked to leave the house/flat before the end of your tenancy agreement) and unfair rent
  • Have a written agreement if you have a fixed-term tenancy of more than 3 years

If you have a tenancy agreement, it should be fair and comply with the law.

If you don’t know who your landlord is, ask (in writing) the person or company you pay rent to. If they do not give you this information within 21 days, your landlord may be fined.

Your responsibilities

You must give your landlord access to the house/flat to inspect it or carry out repairs. Your landlord has to give you at least 24 hours’ notice and visit at a reasonable time of day, unless it is an emergency and they need immediate access.

You must also:

  • Take good care of the house/flat – e.g. by cleaning it and keeping it in good condition
  • Pay the agreed rent, even if repairs are needed or you are in dispute with your landlord
  • Pay other charges as agreed with the landlord – these may include Council Tax or gas and electric bills
  • Repair or pay for any damage caused by you, your family, or your friends
  • Only sublet a property if the tenancy agreement, or your landlord, allows it

If you do not fulfil your responsibilities, your landlord has the right to take legal action to evict you.

Useful Tips

  • Talk to other students at the school to find out where they are living – someone may be looking for a flatmate
  • Go and visit accommodation with a friend – never go alone
  • If you are renting a house or flat, ask your landlord/lady if you can pay reduced rent during holiday time when you may be away
  • When you move in, make sure that all of the items on the inventory (list of things in the accommodation) are in your flat/house and that they are not damaged
  • If you are going to live in a shared flat with people you don’t know, check to see if your own room has a lock on the door
  • Do not hand over any money until you have been given the key to your flat/bedsit

Useful Terms

  • Bedsit – Single room, usually with sink. It is like a living room and bedroom in one. Normally you will share a kitchen and bathroom
  • Studio flat – Bedroom with small private kitchen and bathroom
  • Landlord and landlady – The owner of the accommodation
  • Tenancy agreement – The paperwork you sign with the landlord/lady to book the accommodation
  • All inclusive – Means that you should not have to pay extra for bills such as heating and electricity
  • Council Tax – A monthly tax that everyone pays to the government in the UK.
  • Deposit – Money you give to the landlord/lady before you move in that you get back when you leave as long as the accommodation is in good condition. If you damage the accommodation the landlord/lady uses your deposit to pay for the damages.

If you need help or advice with finding accommodation in London, please ask at Reception.