1. What do I need to live in the UK?
Check out our blog, written by English Path staff and students to find out more about living in the UK!
2. What items should I bring before leaving my country?
Here are some important things you need to know to make your arrival as smooth as possible. Use our checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything and are prepared for the exciting times ahead.
(i) Checklist
Here are a few important items that you should bring with you:
- Passport
- Acceptance letter
- Accommodation letter
- Proof of health/medical insurance
- A bit of cash and credit/debit cards/Apple or Google Pay
- Weather-appropriate clothing (depending on the season you come to London)
- Adaptor for electrical appliances
- Prescription medication and medical records
- Emergency information
- Toiletries
- Notebook and pen
- Backpack for classes, social programmes, and day trips
- Reusable water bottle
(ii) Pocket money
Recommended weekly budget: £150. This should cover expenses, laundry, local travel and activities. You will need additional money if you want to take weekend trips. Bring £100 with you in cash and a debit or credit card. You will need to check with your financial institution to make sure you will be able to withdraw money from a UK ATM. Do not bring foreign currency. It is not wise to carry around large amounts of cash.
(iii) Clothing
Most students dress casually for classes, but you should bring nice clothes for going out and sportswear for sports and outdoor activities. The climate is changeable and may be different from your own. The` typical temperature is 25-30°C in the summer and 2 to 6°C in the winter, although it can drop below freezing. Bring waterproof clothing if you’re arriving in the autumn or winter.
(iv) Electrical current
Standard voltage in the UK is 230 volts; remember to bring an adaptor with you or buy one when you arrive.
3. How can I stay updated about school events and activities?
We encourage you to follow the school’s Instagram account before you arrive and especially during your stay. This will give you an idea of what is happening at the school and help you connect with staff and students. This is also where we will post notifications of any unexpected school closures: it is important you check our Instagram account for any messages while you are attending the school, especially if there is severe weather in the area (e.g., snowstorm, flood, etc.). If the school cannot open or school opening will be delayed, we will post a message as soon as possible (the night before or in the morning) to advise you of this, along with information on how to get further updates and any alternate scheduling, (if applicable). Follow EP! @englishpathschools.
4. Before I arrive in London, what are some important things that I should know?
Arriving at the airport in a foreign country can be overwhelming. To better prepare yourself, make sure that you have read the information below about your arrival and how to get to your accommodation. If you get lost or confused upon arrival, don’t be afraid to ask the airport staff for help as they will be happy to give assistance.
(i) If you have booked a transfer with us, in case of a service emergency, use the following details to contact us:
If you have any flight changes, miss a connecting flight or need help meeting the transfer service, you should call the emergency number. Please be prepared to tell them your name, school name (English Path) and location. Students should only accept a transfer from a greeter with the official English Path signage.
(ii) Be aware of the general living costs (sample prices for items in this city)
(iii) Understand the local customs
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Women in the UK are equal to men and should always be treated fairly.
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All people treat one another with dignity and respect. British people are very empathetic, often consider the feelings of others, and are willing to listen to those with different views and opinions.
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British people sometimes talk to strangers in public areas. This is a great way to practice English, but caution should be taken. You should not give out your address and telephone number or accept inappropriate invitations.
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“Please” and “thank you” are very important words! Always use them if you ask someone to do something for you, or if they help you or give you information.
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The UK is a culturally diverse nation where people of all ethnic backgrounds are treated equally. All individuals should challenge any prejudice they witness (prejudice is the negative opinion or feelings towards something or someone without reason).
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People in the UK leave a tip for good service in restaurants, hair salons and other places. The tip rate at most restaurants is about 10–15% of the bill and is sometimes included. Fast food is not tipped unless it is delivered. Porters in stations, airports and hotels should be tipped approximately £2 per bag. Taxi drivers are generally given a 15% tip.
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No one is above the law, which is put in place to protect everyone. Students should be aware of their legal rights and responsibilities. All individuals hold freedom of choice (within the law).
(iv) Health and safety come first
If you need to see a doctor, you may go to one of the walk-in centres. To find the walk-in centres nearby you visit: clch.nhs.uk/services/walk-in-centres.
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If you get sick: If you get unwell while in the UK, you should visit a doctor. You can ask the Student Services team or your host family where the nearest doctor is. If you have a minor illness, you can ask staff at a local pharmacist for advice. Remember to bring any relevant insurance or medical documentation with you.
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Protecting your belongings: We strongly recommend you take out insurance for your personal belongings, especially cameras, music players, mobile phones and laptops. Personal items cannot be covered by English Path homestay or residence insurance.
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Prescription medication: Remember to bring enough of your prescribed medication with you, as UK pharmacists will not dispense a foreign prescription. International customs agents may ask you questions about your medication upon your departure or arrival, so be sure to pack it carefully. Bring any important medical records (blood type, prescriptions, x-rays) that might be useful for medical care abroad, as well as contact information for your health care providers at home.
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Staying safe at school: If you or another student has an accident or needs urgent medical attention, please come to reception, where the First Aider is located.
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Fire safety: If you discover a fire, press the fire alarm button on the nearest alarm. Leave the building immediately via the fire exit. Make sure you tell a member of EP staff exactly what happened so they can call 999. If you hear the fire alarm, leave the building immediately. Do not run, use the lift or stop to collect your belongings. EP staff will guide you to the fire exit. Go to the assembly point. Follow any instructions given by a member of EP staff and do not go back into the building until you are told to do so by EP staff.
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Personal safety and looking after valuables: London is generally a safe place, but as with a lot of big cities, you should always be alert. Some tips are: Be alert when you are walking alone at night. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Do not leave your belongings unattended. In the UK, you do not need to always carry your identification card or passport with you; you can keep it at home and carry a picture of your ID on your phone or a photocopy in your bag.
Please note that everyone is entitled to free emergency medical treatment in the UK. However, if you are admitted to the hospital, you may be charged if you are not entitled to free medical care (as described before).
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Smoking is banned in all public buildings in Britain, including bars, restaurants, shops, stations, cinemas, and all public transport. You can smoke on the street. No one under the age of 18 in the UK may buy or consume tobacco or alcohol, including beer and wine. If you are under 18, it’s against the law for someone to sell you alcohol, to buy or try to buy alcohol, and for an adult to try to buy alcohol for you.
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For drivers, you must drive on the left-hand side, observe all speed limits and signs, give way to emergency vehicles, obey all directions given by police, stop at red traffic lights, and must wear a seatbelt.
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Driving under the influence of alcohol is a very serious crime, and police make regular random checks.
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You will need international ID to enter bars, clubs or pubs (e.g., Passport, ID card, driving license).
(vii) Student code of conduct
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You must attend all classes. If you do not attend your classes, your representative will be informed. If you do not then improve your attendance, you may not be able to continue your course. 85% attendance is needed to be able to receive a certificate of completion.
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Be on time for all your lessons.
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Always tell English Path if you are going to be absent from school for any reason and tell your host family if you are going away overnight.
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If you commit a criminal offence or have to be severely disciplined, you will be sent home. We will also inform the immigration authorities.
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Be respectful, polite and open to different cultures.
(viii) Open a bank account
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The Main banks in the UK are HSBC, Barclays, Natwest, Nationwide and Santander. To open a bank account, the following documents may be needed:
5. What to expect on your first day at school?
On your first day at English Path School:
- Inductions start at 08:45 am (for morning students) and 12:00 pm (for afternoon students).
- This includes a placement test, induction presentations about the school and academic programmes and the distribution of class timetables.
- A tour of the local area.
- Have their picture taken for a Student I.D. card.
- Must complete the emergency contact details & publicity consent form.
- A welcome coffee (midday).
- Classes begin at: 09:15 am (classic morning), 12:45 pm (elective/semi-intensive), and 01:45 pm (classic afternoon).
- On their first day, you are expected to bring your passport and proof of medical insurance.
6. How to open a bank account (UK)
The main banks in the UK are HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds Bank, RBS, Natwest, Nationwide and Santander.
To open a bank account, the following documents may be needed:
- Passport or EU ID;
- A valid visa;
- A school letter.
You can get the school letter from Student Services to take to the bank.
For online banks, you may open your account online without the school letter from us.
You may also be required to provide with further documents, such as: Proof of address, Proof of income or Bank statement.
For all other locations, you can reach out to one of our Student Services Officer or contact us via here.
7. Before I arrive in Birmingham, what are some important things that I should know and where can I access pre-arrival information?
8. How far is the student accommodation from the EP Birmingham school?
Our student residence accommodation is around 25 minutes' walk from school. Our homestays are between 40 minutes to 1 hour from school by public transport (bus or train).
9. Can I get a student bus pass in Birmingham ?
Yes, you can purchase a 1-month student bus ticket in the NX Bus mTicket app. If using a student bus ticket, you must carry your physical student ID card with you at all times while taking the bus. If you need help with your student bus pass, please come to the office and we can help you.
10. Where is EP Birmingham located?
EP Birmingham is located right in the heart of Birmingham, just 1 minute walk from Birmingham New Street train station and the Bullring shopping centre. We are based inside Norfolk House - when you arrive at the building reception, please ask for English Path.
11. How old are the students who study at EP Birmingham?
We welcome students 16 and older to study at EP Birmingham and have plenty of students of all ages.
12. Are there any shops or restaurants near the school?
EP Birmingham is located right in the city centre, so there are plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from. There is a convenience store and Subway next to the school, and if you walk just 1 minute you will reach Grand Central and the Bullring which have a wide variety of shops and restaurants.
13. Are there social activities for students at Birmingham?
Yes, we run activities for students from Monday to Friday and the programme changes every week. The weekly social programme calendar can be found on our noticeboards around the school.
14. Do you carry out IELTS tests at EP Birmingham?
We don't carry out these tests in school, so you would need to book your test at an independant test centre. We do offer IELTS Preparation classes, however, to help you revise and get ready. Come and see us if you need help booking your test :)
15. When can I start my course? Are there specific enrolment dates?
We have continuous enrolment and welcome new students every Monday.
16. Where should I visit on the weekends while I'm living in Birmingham?
Birmingham is an ideal location for exploring the rest of the UK. Some places nearby which are popular with our students include Stratford-upon-Avon (Shakespeare's birthplace), Warwick Castle, and the Black Country Living Museum (filming location for Peaky Blinders). Famous cities such as Oxford, Manchester, Liverpool, and London can all be reached in under 2 hours by train from Birmingham.
17. Is the EP Birmingham campus pet-friendly?
Unfortunately it is not. Only service dogs can be admitted
18. What are the estimated living costs for students in Birmingham?
Living costs will vary depending on factors such as your choice of accommodation, whether you prefer to cook for yourself or eat out, and other personal spending choices. The average cost of living for students in Birmingham is around £1400.
19. Is Birmingham affordable for international students compared to London?
Yes, the cost of living in Birmingham is lower than in London. This makes Birmingham a great option for students who would like to experience life in a UK city while saving some money.
20. Are there opportunities to practice English outside of class?
Yes, we run social activities for students from Monday to Friday, which is a great opportunity to meet other students and practice your English outside of the classroom.
21. How can I get around Birmingham as a student?
Birmingham is well-connected by public transport, with regular bus and train services. Just 1 minute walk from the EP Birmingham campus, you can find Birmingham's largest train station, as well as plenty of bus stops. The city centre itself is very walkable, and you will have plenty of opportunities to explore it as part of our social programme!
22. Can I combine English studies with work in Birmingham?
Unfortunately, students studying at English Path Birmingham are unable to find paid work due to visa restrictions. Students are able to find volunteering opportunities, and can ask the Student Services team for more advice.
23. Why should I choose Birmingham over other UK cities to study English?
Birmingham is a great option for students who would like to explore the UK during their stay, as it is a central transport hub for visiting many popular destinations. Cities such as London, Oxford, Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Manchester, and Liverpool are all within 2 hours' reach of Birmingham.
24. Is it possible to take the CELTA course at EP Birmingham?
Yes, in fact, EP Birmingham is our only centre that offers the CELTA course, perfect for English teachers who are looking to improve their qualifications and obtain the certificate or for those with an excellent level of English who would like to become an English teacher.
25. Does the school have a prayer room?
Yes, there is a prayer room on the third floor of the building - please ask a member of staff and we will be happy to show you where it is.
26. Will I need to take any tests while studying at English Path Birmingham?
All students take a test every Friday. This test is completed to assess students' progress and ensure that the students have fully learnt the topics covered throughout the week. Any remedial action is then taken. Students are also tested on skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking) twice every 10 weeks.
27. Is there a space where I can eat in the school?
Our student kitchen is very close to our classrooms and has microwaves, as well as hot and cold water. We also have tea and coffee available in the office, which students are welcome to help themselves to.
