Author Archives: Miriam Sandiford

What to pack?

‘Don’t over pack!’ is one of the most common responses whenever we ask students for the advice they would give for those about to arrive on campus for the first time. 

It can be tricky to know what you might need and what you should bring with you, so this is definitely a decision that shouldn’t be based on ‘what more can I cram into the car/suitcase?’ So with this in mind, listen to the voice of experience as our students and staff share their top tips so you can save yourself the pain of trying to squeeze in a second food dehydrator… 

Aleena, Psychology student and Liane, English Language and Linguistics student – ‘make a packing list’ 

Aleena: ‘Making a list would be useful, as I found I missed out [packing] a lot of essentials and had to spend money buying things I already had at home.’ Fortunately, we have a packing list to help get you started but another piece of advice is to ‘pack boxes so items related are put together (e.g. kitchen, bedding, bathroom etc.)’ says Liane ‘this makes unpacking quicker and easier’. 

Student unpacking in bedroom

Laura, from our Accommodation Team – ‘check what’s already in your room’ 

‘Know what’s already included [in your room/accommodation] to avoid wasting valuable space by packing duplicates. You can check what is in your Canterbury or Medway bedroom online.’ 

Omar, Architecture student – ‘don’t forget the essentials but prioritise things you can’t easily buy’ 

‘Bring your chargers and double check on things that you need to use every day, such as soap, as it’s easy to forget. But don’t worry too much about these as you can literally get them from anywhere, just mainly bring the things that aren’t easily bought or replaced if you need them.’ 

Sam, from our Housekeeping Team – ‘know your bed sizes’ 

‘Aside from forgotten passports or driver’s licences, this is one of the most common mishaps for new students. There are different bed sizes across the rooms on campus (and in private accommodation) so don’t buy any bedding until you have accepted your room offer, and double checked the bed size online so you know which size sheets to buy. Some folks have trouble getting hold of sheets for the 7ft beds, but a king size flat sheet will fit.’ 

Bed sizes from standard single to XL double

You can find out what size bed is in your room online. 

Phil, from our Catering Team – ‘don’t pack the kitchen sink’ 

‘Just bring enough to get you started as you may want to go in with your flatmates for to buy some items. If you live in accommodation with a meal plan you shouldn’t need anything beyond your basic crockery and cutlery, as kettles are provided. If you’re going to live in self-catered accommodation we suggest just buying a set of crockery and cutlery for yourself, plus food storage containers and basic pots and pans.’ 

Student and parents unloading car

Beth, History and Social Anthropology student – ‘make it home’ 

‘The best bit of advice was to bring decorative items. Strings of lights, small potted plants for the windowsill or desk, photo frames with silly, happy photos, blankets and pillows, etc. It makes the room that bit more comforting and homely and can help with the homesickness.’ 

Ella, Wildlife Conservation student – ‘bring things that remind you of home’  

‘Bring as many things that remind you of your home. Bedroom ornaments or just things, and bring white tack and printed photos and put them up all over your room.’ 

Kent Union officers sitting on deckchairs chatting

Harry, Psychology with Clinical Psychology student – ‘someone else will have what you’re looking for’. 

‘Don’t stress about forgetting things and feeling like you need to pack every little thing – someone else will have what you’re looking for and will let you borrow it! Also, there is a shop on campus and everything you need can be found in Canterbury.’ 

Of course, there are also some things you should 100% not be bringing. You can probably guess these but anything with a naked flame, (such as candles, incense, joss sticks, oil burners, barbeques, or smoking paraphernalia) is one to avoid. Cars, mini-fridges, adhesive strip lights, heated airers, multi-way cube adaptors and pets are some of the other items featured on the prohibited items list. 

Our Canterbury Arrivals and Medway Arrivals pages are full of useful info to help get you ready to arrive at Kent including more info on what to bring (Canterbury and Medway editions). Plus we’ve got more advice from previous students coming your way, including tips for settling in, so keep an eye on the Accommodation Twitter and Facebook pages for all the latest blogs and useful information before you arrive. 

We look forward to welcoming you to Kent soon! 

 

Students and staff at Pride event.

How to join Medway Pride Parade, 19 August

At Kent, we stand for Pride and will be sponsoring Medway Pride as part of Universities at Medway! Join us for a spectacular celebration of LGBTQ+ identity set in the heart of Rochester.

The event will start with entertainment in a Pride Parade through Rochester High Street on the 19 August starting at 10:45, with the main event being held in Rochester Castle Gardens. There will be community stalls, bars and food outlets, and creative activities.

If you’d like to take part in the parade as part of the Universities at Medway group, sign up now. The promo code will be automatically applied, so just select the number of tickets required.

There are no tickets currently available for people who just want to attend the festival event at the Castle Gardens, but you can go on a waiting list for returned tickets.

If you have booked parade tickets but have also previously booked Castle Gardens tickets, please return the Castle Gardens Festival tickets on Eventbrite so these can go to people on the waiting list.

Students chatting in Pilkington building

Accessing support at Medway campus

Find out how to get support at Medway:

Support with your studies

Our Student Learning and Advisory Service (SLAS) can help you with everything from perfecting your essay writing to learning how to reference properly.

Don’t forget your Division and School is also there to help you with your studies and offer a range of study support.

Might you benefit from contact with Student Support and Wellbeing?

If you have a disability, chronic condition, mental health condition, specific learning difficulty or autism, please contact Student Support and Wellbeing to see how they can help you make the most of your university journey.

We have a team of expert staff who can help you face the challenges of studying, socialising and living independently, whatever else you might be going through, whether it’s something you’re experiencing for the first time at University or have dealt with for a while.

There is also a free confidential counselling service which offers you a safe space to address issues concerning you and can help get thoughts, feelings, behaviour and perspective on life back in balance again.

Kent Union

From money worries to housing issues, academic problems to visa support, Kent Union’s Advice Service is available to help through their free, impartial and confidential advice service. Find out more about Kent Union at The Hub

Financial support

With the cost of living rising, you are probably thinking more about your finances. Our financial help and advice webpage includes tips on budgeting, getting a part-time job and who to contact for further support. Plus, we offer a range of emergency financial support options.

Careers support

Our Careers and Employability Service offer advice, workshops and tools to help you prepare for your future career or further study. They can also help you find and apply for part-time jobs while you study.

Health services

It’s a good idea to register with a local doctor near to your accommodation in order to receive treatment under the National Health Service (NHS): Find your nearest NHS Surgery. Medway students can call Canterbury Nursing Services on 01227 823503 for minor illnesses/injuries and contraception advice.

Two students sat at Canterbury labyrinth chatting and smiling

Accessing support at Canterbury campus

There are lots of ways you can access support at Kent:

Nexus – your campus help point

Not sure where to go to ask a question? Head to Nexus in Templeman Library. Enter the library through the main entrance, go through the turnstiles and take the first right.

As well as a social and study area, Nexus is your campus help point. The staff at Nexus can help with any query and point you in the right direction.

You can also access Nexus online.

Support with your studies

Our Student Learning and Advisory Service (SLAS) can help you with everything from perfecting your essay writing to learning how to reference properly.

Don’t forget your Division and School is also there to help you with your studies and offer a range of study support.

Might you benefit from contact with Student Support and Wellbeing?

If you have a disability, chronic condition, mental health condition, specific learning difficulty or autism, please contact Student Support and Wellbeing to see how they can help you make the most of your university journey.

We have a team of expert staff who can help you face the challenges of studying, socialising and living independently, whatever else you might be going through, whether it’s something you’re experiencing for the first time at university or something you have dealt with for a while.

There is also a free confidential counselling service which offers you a safe space to address issues concerning you and can help get thoughts, feelings, behaviour and perspective on life back in balance again.

Kent Union

Kent Union are your Students’ Union. From money worries to housing issues, academic problems to visa support, Kent Union’s Student Advice Service is available to help through their free, impartial and confidential advice service.

You can also get in touch with your Kent Union full-time officers who are each responsible for specific areas within the Union.

Financial support and £3 meal deal

With the cost of living rising, you are probably thinking more about your finances. Our financial help and advice webpage includes tips on budgeting, getting a part-time job and who to contact for further support. Plus, we offer a range of emergency financial support options.

Our £3 meal deal returns to Rutherford Dining Hall! Choose between a plant-based or a meat option and then add sides and veg. A great meal at a great price!

You can also access Kent Union’s Campus Pantry at Mandela Student Centre, and can speak to their Advice Service about any extra support or advice you might need.

Careers support

Our Careers and Employability Service offer advice, workshops and tools to help you prepare for your future career or further study. They can also help you find and apply for part-time jobs while you study.

Health services

Kent has an NHS general practice on campus called the University Medical Centre, with an independent pharmacy next to it. Our University Nursing Service provide advice for minor illnesses/injuries and contraception, and is staffed 24 hours a day during term time by registered nurses. 

Fist bump in the gym

Staying active – new monthly gym membership

Kent Sport, in collaboration with Kent Union, are delighted to offer a new Kent Sport membership payment plan for students; monthly payments. The new payment plans are starting in September 2023. If you’re interested in monthly payments, register your interest here.

We are so excited to announce that from September Kent Sport will be implementing monthly payments for membership! Over the last few years, Kent union and the VP for Student Engagement, have been lobbying Kent Sport and the University for this outcome, and we’re so happy that student voices have been heard and change is being made! We have been working with Kent Sport to create a more active campus and encourage more students to take part in exercise and activities, to look after their physical and mental health and wellbeing. This new monthly payment option will make Kent Sport more accessible to students by spreading the cost of the membership over the whole year and will break down one of the biggest barriers to participation!

– Caroline Van Eldik, Kent Union Officer: VP Student Engagement (2022-23)

Gym membership prices

The prices for our new monthly payment options are:

  • Premium Plus £18.99 per month or £195 annual
  • Plus £13.99 per month or £150 annual
    You’ll be able to buy your monthly payment membership from 1 September, either through your online account or at the Sports Centre and The Pavilion receptions. You can find out more about the benefits of Kent Sport membership on our website. Purchasing your monthly instalment membership is easy. If you’re already a Kent Sport member, you’ll just need to login to your online account from 1 September and there you can purchase your membership. If you’re not a member already, you’ll need to create an account first before you can purchase your membership.

    You’ll still be able to pay for an annual membership in one payment if you prefer. Monthly and annual memberships can be purchased at anytime throughout the year, however, all student memberships have an automatic end date of 31 August.

    An added bonus

    Get a £20 credit top-up on your KentOne card when you purchase a Premium Plus membership between 1 September and 30 September 2023. This includes monthly and annual payments.

     

    Please note we are retiring the Premium (gym and class only) membership option from 1 September 2023.

Welcome Fair

Ignite your start: Library & IT services in the first few weeks

Welcome to Kent! Excited to get your student journey off to a great start? We’re here to help you in using the exceptional Library and IT services Kent has to offer.

🌐 Navigate success

Discover our new student information page, a space dedicated to helping you successfully navigate your way to through these first few weeks. Whether you’re exploring the campus or joining us remotely, this resourceful page is tailored to provide just the right tips and insights, ensuring you’re all set to go.

🚀 Propel your knowledge

Take the IT and Library e-induction on Moodle – access this once enrolled. Our digital launchpad is designed to guide you through all the vital information, ensuring your student journey starts on the perfect trajectory. No matter where you’re learning from, we’ve got you covered with the Digital Library and IT e-induction (remote study only), tailored to those studying away from campus.

🌠 Discover more

Explore our online guides and equip yourself with the essential tools you will need during your time at Kent. Whether its our expert guidance on Wi-Fi setup, learning how to access premium software available to students, or discovering all you need to know about borrowing books from the renowned Templeman Library; if you need it – we’ve got a guide for it!

👨‍🚀’Fuel Up’ at the Treasure Tent 💎

Join us at ‘The Treasure Tent‘ on 19 and 20 September for a 2 days of engaging activities designed to ignite your curiosity and enhance your student experience. This Welcome Week event is an opportunity to ‘Fuel up’ for the journey ahead by discovering the treasure trove of services we offer that will help you excel at the University of Kent. Get it in your diary!

Contact IT & Library Support

  • Use Nexus Self Service
  • helpdesk@kent.ac.uk
  • 01227 824888
  • Use the Chat to us button (Library and IT web pages) to launch online chat
  • Visit us: Nexus, Block D, Ground Floor, Templeman Library
Three students walking together

Support for mature, commuting and part-time students

If you are a mature, commuting or part-time student (or a combination), your university experience might look a little different to someone joining university straight from school. But don’t worry, there is plenty of additional support for you and ways to connect with those in a similar position. This includes a society that runs events and study sessions at convenient times if you have other responsibilities (e.g. a part-time job and childcare), and a dedicated student network to help get your voice heard.

Introduction event for mature students (with lunch provided)

In the week before Welcome Week, our Student Learning Advisory Service are running in-person introduction events for mature students. These events will help you prepare for university study, give you an introduction to digital learning and a campus orientation. It also gives you an opportunity to ask questions and meet other mature students at the free lunch.

Please book the relevant event for you based on your Division and campus:

Mature Student Society

Kent Union has a Mature Student Society which acts as a forum to promote the challenges and needs of students over the age of 21. As well as being for mature students, the society welcomes students returning to education, part-time or commuting students, and students who have dependants or caring responsibilities. The society meets regularly and is a great way to socialise with other students with similar responsibilities and potential interests.

Mature and Part-Time Student Network

Kent Union has a number of student networks. The Mature and Part-Time Student Network aims to represent and act as the voice for all mature, commuting and part-time Students, and to feedback on key issues that affect the mature, commuting and part-time student experience to both the University and Kent Union.

More about support available.

Students walking towards University Medical Centre

Registering with a doctor

It is important to register with a GP close to your term-time address so you can access health services quickly and easily while you’re at University.

Visit the NHS website for more information about getting medical care as a student.

Canterbury

Kent has its own NHS general practice on campus called the University Medical Centre.

Canterbury students can register for the University Medical Practice online.

Medway

You should register with a local doctor near to your accommodation in order to receive treatment under the National Health Service (NHS): Find your nearest NHS Surgery.

NHS services for students

Check out this handy guide for students in Kent and Medway It includes:

  • How to register with a GP
  • What to do if you become unwell during the holidays
  • Registering with a dentist
  • Mental health support
  • Vaccinations
  • Contraception

More support

Find out more about our support services at Canterbury and Medway.

Tennis Open Day

Kent Sport Community Tennis Open Day, 27 August

On Sunday 27 Aug 2023, we are opening our doors to everyone at the Kent Sports Community Tennis Open Days.

Located within the Kent Indoor Tennis and Events Arena at the Pavilion outdoor facilities, all students, staff, and members of the public are welcome to book a free 45-minute session with our Law Tennis Association (LTA) qualified coaching team. On the day, you’ll be able to experience the fantastic indoor courts, play on the acrylic surfaces, and chat with our experienced staff, including LTA Level 5 coach Nick Skelton and the coaching team.

Bookable slots start at 10:00 for adult and Youth Start sessions, plus there are multiple junior and children’s sessions on each Open Day, so there’s plenty of opportunity for you or your children to get involved.

Spaces on our tennis Open Days are limited so make sure you book early to avoid disappointment. Book your free space at kent.ac.uk/sports/tennis.

Students sat on grass at HSS PG Summer BBQ

PG Summer August events roundup

PG Summer continues in August with a wide range of activities to get involved in, including:

Tues 1 August – Enjoy good coffee? Head to the Gulbenkian Arts Centre Café for their free coffee tasting and help influence the future coffee culture on campus.

Wed 2 August – Get creative with this relaxing Craft-ernoon Tea event at Venue. There will be painting and pottery available.

Mon 7 August – Explore how to cope with common feelings surrounding change at this online workshop, led by an expert from Student Support and Wellbeing.

Mon 7 August – Find out how to improve your LinkedIn profile or get started building it at this LinkedIn Masterclass at Medway campus, and online.

Tues 8 August – Meet new people at Kent Union’s Speed Networking and Coffee event in Nexus, with refreshments provided by the Library Café.

Tues 15 August Learn more about Interview Skills for Academic and Industry Roles (Medway session). Want to understand more about the interview process and what the interview panel are looking for? This practical session for PGT and PGR students is for you.  

Fri 18 August – Get outside and volunteer at the Kent Community Oasis Garden. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re an expert, a complete beginner or just coming along for a chat.

Mon 21 August – Learn more about Interview Skills for Academic and Industry Roles (Canterbury session). Want to understand more about the interview process and what the interview panel are looking for? This practical session for PGT and PGR students is for you.

Thu 24 August – Relax with another Craft-ernoon Tea from Kent Union, where you can make something to take home with you.  

Tues 29 August – Kent Union is running a mindfulness session in Woody’s where you can relax and unwind.

Wed 30 August – Learn how to find graduate level employment after uni at this online session from our Careers Team, which will focus on graduate jobs, grad schemes as well as job hunting methods and application tips.

There’s also a weekly Walk and Talk Summer Wellbeing Group, led by a mental health adviser.

See all PG Summer events.