student:information
Arriving and settling in
• Introduction
2: INFORMATION
3: CAMPUS LIFE
4: CITY LIFE
1: ARRIVAL
• health:and safety
• good:neighbour policy
• residence:fines
• everything:electrical
• portable appliance:testing
• launderette:lawrence tower
• student:services
• healthy:life
• Financial Assistance Unit (FAU)
• students’:guild
• catering@aston
• drugs:and smoking
• visitors:and guests
• be safe:be secure
• room:inventory
• damage:replacement
• here:to help
• student support:DANU
• aston:ACRA
• bank:accounts
• easy:FAQs
• room:transfers
• paying:rent
• rent:schedule
• recycling:and litter
• saving water:and electricity
• aston:recipes
• useful:numbers
• a city:on your doorstep
• arrival:paperwork
• arrival:helpful tips
• what:to bring
• transport:getting here
• study:bedrooms
• aston:aunties
• site:plan
• staff:contact list
Residential Services
Accommodation Office
Aston University Aston Triangle
Tel: +44 (0)121 204 4707 +44 (0)121 204 4704 +44 (0)121 204 4706
Fax: +44 (0)121 204 4705
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.aston.ac.uk/accommodation
Welcome
student:information
Introduction
Welcome to Aston’s Residential
Services, the heart of Aston
University life.
This Student Information Pack is designed to
provide you with useful information to help to
make your time in residences as fulfilling as
possible.
Aston University prides itself on providing a
truly safe, secure on campus living experience.
Living on campus includes all utility costs and
communal cleaning charges, so budgeting
is easy. All accommodation is self-catering,
and there are a variety of eating options on
campus for those who don’t want to cook for
themselves or want a break from the kitchen.
On campus we also provide excellent sporting
facilities with 2 sports halls, a 25m swimming
pool, a 75 station gym, climbing wall and a
sports pitch; as well as plenty of places to
meet and eat, relax between lectures and chill
out; there are dedicated services such as a
Dentist, Optician, Chaplaincy, a health drop in
centre and full support services.
high standards and we ask you to fully
participate in our communal living values,
where both individual and collective
responsibility is positively promoted.
Our City Centre campus offers 2117
comfortable, convenient, on campus places
and a self-contained lifestyle with services that
include two launderettes, one in the Students’
Guild and the other in Lawrence Tower, and a
bookshop, which also offers a variety of foodstuffs and practical items.
With your co-operation and enthusiasm we are
confident you will enjoy your time in Residences.
We have a Guarantee Scheme for First Year
students who put Aston as their first choice
University (undergraduate and postgraduate),
explained in our allocation policy. All on campus
accommodation is covered by a Licence
Agreement contained at the back of the
Information and Conditions of Residence
booklet.
Our commitment to you is reflected in our
Welcome to Aston University.
living:space
the place to be...
1. Arrival
arrival:paperwork
Arriving and settling into your space
Bring all your paperwork…
Remember to bring all the information about
your campus accommodation with you when
you arrive. You will be enrolling during your first
week at Aston, and to do this you’ll need:
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Proof of identity
Your student number (from when you
enrolled on MAP)
Proof of qualifications
Confirmation of arrangements for
payment of tuition fees,
Your UK medical card or completed NHS GMS 1 form, if you wish to register
with the University Health Centre.
Make sure you check the Enrolment
Guide for full details.
Key collection
International/EU students can collect keys
from Lawrence Tower Reception on Saturday
19th September 2009 between 9.00am 5.00pm or Sunday 20th September 2009
between 9.00am - 4.00pm.
UK students can collect keys from the following
locations on either Saturday 26th September
2009 between 9.00am - 5.00pm or Sunday
27th September 2009 between 9.00am 4.00pm.
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For Lakeside from Lakeside Reception.
For Stafford Tower from Stafford Tower.
For Dalton Tower from Dalton Tower.
For Lawrence Tower, Vauxhall House,
Old Cross House, Gem House, and
Bishop Ryder House from Lawrence
Tower.
All returning students can collect keys from
Lawrence Tower Reception on either Saturday
3rd October 2009 between 9.00am - 5.00pm
or Sunday 4th October 2009 between 9.00am
- 4.00pm.
If you are arriving outside the times stated you
will not be able to collect your keys unless
prior arrangements have been made with the
Porters reception in Lawrence Tower on 0121
204 4715. However, you may be given room
only access and asked to report to the
Accommodation Office the following day.
The “Information and Conditions of Residences”
and Licence Agreement available on our website
and in hard copy format gives you specific
details about the accommodation you will be
living in, so please ensure you read this
information carefully.
The Students’ Guild has also organised groups
of male and female ‘Aunties’ to help new
students move into their accommodation.
Aston ‘Aunties’ are current students of the
University, either in their second or final years.
They will all be wearing special ‘Auntie’ T-shirts
with the Aston University logo and will be
happy to help you find your way around.
There are lots of things to get sorted
when you get here:
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Fill in your inventory form and return it
to your Residence Officer.
Attend the welcome meeting.
Ring home to let your family know
how you’re getting on.
Get a TV Licence - if you’ve got a TV.
Register with a doctor and dentist.
Enrol on your course.
If you haven’t already got one, open
a bank account.
Organise a flat meeting to get to
know your flatmates.
Go to the Freshers’ Week.
Find your way around the Campus
and Birmingham.
Draw up a cleaning rota
with your flatmates.
And lots more to do in
your:space
1. Arrival
arrival:helpful tips
Moving in and settling in
There’s a lot to do when you start
University – move in, unpack and sort
your room out, meet your flat and
course mates, enrol and get involved
in Welcome Week..
Starting University can be a little daunting, but
there are plenty of people around to help you.
And don’t forget, if you come across a problem
don’t panic!
Here are a few tips which should help you
through your first week:
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Remember, everyone is in the same
situation as you. No one feels
completely confident in a new place,
with new people. With this in mind,
pluck up the courage to knock on
your neighbour’s door or start up a
conversation with the person sitting
next to you.
Join some societies or sports clubs
– it’s a great opportunity to try some thing new, and meet some new friends.
• Don’t forget there are plenty of people
around for you to talk to: an Aston
Auntie, a flatmate, a family member or
friend from home. If you have a question
relating to your course, get in touch
with your School who’ll be happy to
help you. If you feel you need a little
more help, the Student Support Centre
offers a confidential counselling service.
• Over the two weeks of Aston Welcome
(Aston Welcomes International and
Aston Welcomes All), there will be a
help desk situated on the ground floor
of Lawrence Tower. • The Peer Mentoring Scheme can
match you with a second or final year
student in one to one mentoring
relationships. Your mentor will be
someone who has just been through
the same stage as you, who can share
their knowledge and experiences and
give you handy tips at every step of
your time at Aston University.
Contact Baljit Gill:
[email protected]
1. Arrival
what:to bring to your space
Moving in and settling in
When you are moving out of home for
the first time, we know there is a huge
temptation to bring everything you
own!
However, it’s better to be fairly ruthless with
what you bring and what you leave. To help
you do this, we have put together a list of the
essential things that you will need:
Clothes
We find layering is the best way to survive at
University, especially when it’s cold outside but
warm in your lectures. Don’t forget coathangers.
Cleaning Products
Washing powder (or tablets) and a laundry bag
will be useful to carry your clothes down to the
campus laundrette. And don’t forget the
washing up liquid and a brush/sponge.
Bedding and Towels
• A duvet and pillow.
• A duvet cover, bed sheet and pillow case.
• A towel or two.
If you don’t want to bring all this with you, you
can buy a bed linen pack at Aston for £25, or
you can buy everything from shops in Birmingham
city centre - within easy walking distance.
Books
If you have access to your course reading
list, you may want to buy the books for your
course before you come. If not, don’t worry
there are plenty of shops in Birmingham where
you can buy them (possibly with a student
discount!).
Computer or Laptop
If you have a computer or laptop, it’s worth
bringing it with you, though make sure you
have sufficient insurance. If you don’t have a
computer, there are plenty of IT rooms around
campus which are open 24 hours a day.
Television and Licence
A TV isn’t essential, but if you do bring one
you will need to buy your own TV licence.
Plates, Cutlery and Kitchen Utensils
You only need the basics, not the entire contents
of your kitchen at home! We recommend:
a frying pan, a saucepan, a stirring spoon,
a spatula, chopping board, sharp knife, two
mugs, two dinner plates, two bowls, two
glasses (plus beer and/or wine glasses,
if you want) and two sets of cutlery.
Food
We’d advise you to bring a small supply
of food to last your first week. There’s a
small shop on campus, and many others
within walking distance. Take a look at our
page on catering and food.
Medication
If you are on any medication, make sure
you bring enough with you to last until you
are registered with the Health Centre.
DON’T BRING:
• A kettle, iron, toaster, ironing board,
vacuum cleaner or microwave - all these
are provided in University accommodation.
• A mini fridge, heater or rice cooker these aren’t allowed in University
accommodation.
1. Arrival
transport:and how to get here
Finding your way around
Getting to Aston
Information on travelling to Aston by car, rail,
coach and air are given on the maps and
directions page of our website.
The Campus
Every new student gets a little lost in their first
week! If you get stuck go to reception where
someone will be happy to give you directions,
or ask any member of staff. The map of the
campus (pages 12 -13) shows the reception
at the Main Entrance (E) and the Accommodation
Office is located in King Edward VI House
(number 15 on the map).
Birmingham
Birmingham is a fantastic student city, and
you’ll be able to find your way around in no
time. To help out, the Guild are running tours
on Birmingham on Monday 29th and Tuesday
30th September. They’ll show you the sights
as well as the best shops and supermarkets,
and where to go to buy your fancy dress
outfits! Just meet on the Guild steps at 12pm,
1pm, 2pm or 3pm.
We also have a do-it-yourself walking tour of
Birmingham (PDF) which you can print out:
www1.aston.ac.uk/EasySiteWeb/Gateway
Link.aspx?alId=17342
Please note there are no car parking facilities
for students at Aston University.
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Rail Bookings
08457 484950
National Express
08717 818181
Birmingham International Airport
+44 (0)8707 335511 www.bhx.co.uk
Visit Birmingham
0121 202 5115
www.visitbirmingham.com
1. Arrival
study:bedrooms
Keys and swipe cards
Study bedrooms are for occupation
by one student only. The restrictions
placed by Environmental Health
Legislation do not allow two people
to occupy a single study bedroom,
even in the case of couples.
Once in residences students have a Licence
Agreement with the University for a room. As a
result you:
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must not give your keys to anyone else.
must not swap rooms with anyone else.
must not allow someone else to move
in and take over the room if you move out.
must not allow anyone else to stay
in the room if you are away for a
period of time.
Residence Officers will notify the Accommodation
Office if they have reason to suspect any of
the above incidents have occurred. You may
then incur additional charges and the other
person will be asked to leave residences with
immediate effect.
Guest Rooms
The University has some guest rooms that
are available for rent. The cost is £25.00 per
night for a single room and £45.00 per night
for a double room. To check availability, please
contact 0121 204 4713.
1. Arrival
aston:aunties
Welcome Week (Fresher’s Week)
Welcome Week at Aston is designed
to help you settle into student life
quickly, meet new people, and to be
a lot of fun!
During Welcome Week, second and final year
student volunteers, the famous “Aston Aunties”
(male and female), will provide a friendly face
to help guide you around the University, show
you the sights and answer any questions that
you may have.
Throughout the week the Guild, (students
Union), organise a range of events to make
you feel at home at Aston and in Birmingham,
and to make it that bit easier to meet new
friends. In 2008 events included bowling,
nights out in Birmingham, a trip to Alton Towers,
and the always popular visit to Cadbury World!
There are always several walking tours of the
city centre to help you get your bearings.
The Aston Aunties will point out the best
shops, the local supermarkets, the main sights
and the best student meeting places.
At the end of Welcome Week, we have the
Freshers’ Fair, which is a chance for all Aston
clubs and societies to promote themselves
to our new students. It’s also an opportunity
for external organisations such as banks and
supermarkets to come on to campus and
give away freebies to entice you to become
customers.
If you have any further queries, please contact
us by:
Mail:
The Accommodation Office
Aston University
Aston Triangle
Birmingham
B4 7ET
Phone: +44(0)121 204 4704, 4707, 4722
Fax: +44(0)121 204 4705
E-mail: [email protected]
1. Arrival site:plan
1. Arrival
staff:contact list
Get in touch - we’re here to help
The Manager of Residential Services
and the Accommodation Officer have
overall responsibility for the day to
day running of the residence buildings
on campus.
A Residence Officer is based at each of the
Residences and is available Monday to Friday
between 9.00am and 5.00pm to deal with
accommodation, maintenance, general issues
relating to residences and offer advice on
other support services available at Aston.
Porters are available at Lawrence Tower
Reception during the hours of 7.00am to
10.00pm Monday to Saturday and 8.00am to
6.00pm Sunday.
Residential Services staff can be contacted
via the email addresses below or the 4 digit
extension numbers. Just dial +44 (0) 121 204
followed by the relevant extension number.
RESIDENTIAL SERVICES STAFF LIST
King Edward House
Janet Reid
Manager of Residential Services 6 King Edward House
Lyn Ingram
PA to Manager
6 King Edward House
4721
4713
[email protected]
[email protected]
Accommodation Office
Diane Lacey
Accommodation Officer
Christine Stewart
Clerical Assistant
Accommodation Office
Accommodation Office
4706
4707
[email protected]
[email protected]
Residence Officers
Claire Quinn
Chris Bick
Rasheeda Robinson
Nadine Moss
Maxine Symington
Residence
Residence
Residence
Residence
Residence
Low Rise (based in Lawrence Tower)4716
Lawrence Tower
4714
Stafford Tower
4723
Lakeside
4897
Dalton Tower
4898
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Portering Staff
Colin Charlwood
Jim Finucane
Barry Collett
John Watts
Nick Perkins
Portering Supervisor
Porter
Porter
Porter
Porter
Lawrence
Lawrence
Lawrence
Lawrence
Lawrence
4715
4715
4715
4715
4715
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
4719
[email protected]
Officer
Officer
Officer
Officer
Officer
Aston Campus Residents’ Association
Thomas Conlon
ACRA Co-ordinator
Tower
Tower
Tower
Tower
Tower
Stafford Tower
2. Information
health:and safety
Everyone has a responsibility
Health and safety awareness in not
just the concern of the University
management, it is the responsibility of
every student, visitor and employee.
Living in a communal lifestyle can have its own
hazards. Whilst living in residences you are
expected to help maintain a self living environment.
Breaking Health and Safety regulations is a
very serious matter, which could lead to
disciplinary action being taken against you.
You must take responsibility for your actions
and you need to consider not only your own
Health and Safety, but also the Health and
Safety of others.
Please report any potential hazards to any
member of Residential Services Staff immediately.
Please note that University staff will carry out
weekly Health and Safety checks in communal
areas of flats.
The following list gives examples of the type
of behaviour that constitute a breach in Health
and Safety regulations. This list is provided
as a guide and is not an exhaustive list.
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Misuse of a fire alarm.
Misuse of fire fighting equipment, such
as fire extinguishers.
Use of electrical adapters not supplied
by the University.
Damage to or the removal of door and
window closers - especially those on
Fire doors.
Failure to evacuate immediately the
fire alarm sounds or returning to the
building before permission has been
given.
Propping open of fire doors - any door
with a self - closing mechanism or an
appropriate sign on is a Fire door.
Removing or defacing notices relating
to Health and Safety.
Blocking corridors, stairways or fire
exits with equipment or stores.
Allowing a room or a flat to become so
unhygienic that it may cause a risk to
health.
Storage of flammable materials is not
allowed e.g. petrol, solvents, and
fireworks.
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Causing a fire alarm activation due to
non attendance of food whilst cooking.
Drying wet clothes in your room will
encourage damp. You should use the
laundry to wash and dry clothes.
Any student breaching Health and Safety regulations
will have to pay the full cost to repair and/or replace any
damaged safety equipment.
Disciplinary/damage costs can be expensive.
Keep your space a
safe:space
2. Information
good:neighbour policy
Damage/Cleaning Charges
When living in the residences you
form part of a community. Like any
other community it depends on each
and every member playing a part in
ensuring its safe and efficient running.
Your behaviour should be compatible not only
with good order within the residences and
show consideration for your fellow students,
but should not disturb, inconvenience or upset
members of staff. You will naturally introduce
yourself to fellow members of your flat to help
establish good relations from the outset.
Having friends around? – Remember to tell
your flat-mates and give them plenty of notice.
Ask your guests to leave quietly, and give
consideration to others and clear up any
rubbish. Keep the noise levels low and be
responsive to requests for quiet.
Overnight guests? – You can have overnight
guests for no more than two consecutive
nights. You will need to ensure that they have
been signed in at the reception in Lawrence
Tower and remember to inform your fellow
flat-mates. You will be responsible for your
guests’ actions, anti-social behaviour and for
any damage they may cause. Please ask them
to be considerate to your fellow flat-mates.
When returning home late, remember to keep
the noise levels down and be careful not to
slam front/communal doors. Be considerate your flat mates may be asleep, or they may be
studying for an exam.
In particular, but not exclusively, you should
be fully aware that threatening, intimidating,
bullying or harassing behaviour is not tolerated
under any circumstances.
Damage to or misuse of university property will
not be tolerated and will be investigated.
Remember, disciplinary action will be taken
and may prove very costly.
Be mindful of the health and safety of
yourself, your flat mates and university staff.
Full details of the damage/cleaning charges
are in your accommodation Welcome Pack or
from Residential Services.
You are responsible for any damage to the
fabric, fixtures and fittings in your room. If the
damage is in a communal area, and the person
who caused the damage cannot be identified, a
detailed investigation will be undertaken to establish
responsibility. If this proves inconclusive, it will be necessary
to charge the whole flat.
There is a right of appeal via your Residence Officer for any
charges against you and this should be instigated by you
within 10 days of the charge being raised.
Please refer to the Terms and Conditions and Licence
Agreement in relation to all losses, breakages and damages.
Details of typical charges are listed on our website.
2. Information
residence:fines
Fines for breaches of Student Disciplinary Regulations in Residences
Regrettably a small number of students and their
guests put the safety of themselves and others at risk
by their anti-social behaviour.
Offences fall broadly into two main categories, anti-social or
inappropriate behaviour and malicious activation of the fire
alarms or tampering with fire equipment. Listed below are
examples of the types of behaviour which are considered
completely unacceptable in residences either from residents
or their guests for whom they are responsible, and the fines/
disciplinary action likely to be imposed. Please note that this
list is indicative of the penalties that are likely to be imposed.
Incidents will be referred to an ‘Authorised Officer’ who will
determine if the issue can be dealt with by them or referred to
the Disciplinary Board. The student will be given the opportunity to
accept or deny the charge. If the student accepts the charge
then the Authorised Officer will deal with the case following
due process and a penalty may be imposed. The student can
appeal against the penalty but not the charge if accepted. If
the charge is denied by the student then it is referred to Registry
for action under University Disciplinary Regulations. The
student can also opt for the offence to be dealt with by the
Disciplinary Board rather than the Authorised Officer.
Where offences involve communal areas and no-one comes
forward to accept responsibility for the incident, all Residents
may be held responsible. Therefore, each person may
have to pay the fine, rather than the fine being split across
the whole of the flat. At the discretion of the appropriate
Authorised Officer, one formal warning will be given before
implementing the fine.
Offence
Indicative Fine (per person)
Rude to staff
False ID/Refuse to produce ID
Smoking
Objects out of window:
Minor (e.g. paper)
Moderate / Major (Life threatening)
Nuisance in Flat:
Minor (Party noise, guests)
Moderate (Offence to flatmates/ keys to guests)
Major (several moderate)
Guests causing disturbance:
Assault
Fighting
Possession of offensive weapon
Extensive and malicious damage to University property
Drugs
£50.00
£50.00 / £75.00
£50.00/£200.00
£75.00
£150.00 & Public Reprimand
£75.00
£50.00 / £100.00
£200.00 & Public Reprimand. Referred to Registry
Ban Resident from receiving guests
Referred to Registry
Referred to Registry
Referred to Registry
£200.00 plus cost of making good
Zero tolerance policy. Referred to Registry.
Likely Police involvement
Fire Offences
Offence
Late to Evacuate following a fire alarm activation
Failure to Evacuate following a fire alarm activation
Maliciously discharging a Fire Extinguisher
Tampering with Fire Extinguisher
Tampering with Fire Blanket
Damaged/Removed Fire Signs
Fire Door Propped Open
Accidental Fire Alarm Activation
Malicious Manual Call Point Activation
Covered Sensor/Sounder
Damaged/Removed Sensors & Sounders
Blocked Fire Exit
Damage to Fire Door
Indicative Fine (per person)
£75.00
£150.00
£75.00 plus charge to replace and clean area
£75.00 plus cost to replace
£50.00 plus cost to replace
£50.00 plus cost to replace
£50.00
£35.00 - cost to re-set system
£200.00
£150.00 plus cost to make good
£200.00 plus cost to make good
£200.00
£100.00 plus cost to make good
2. Information
everything:electrical
Electrical information
Your electrical goods will need to
be PAT tested for electrical safety
and that it complies with UK and EU
Electrical Safety standards (Portable
Appliance Test, see next page).
The standard electricity supply in the UK is
220 / 240 volts, 50 cycles AC, and the standard
outlet is a 13-amp square 3-pin plug. Each
room on University campus is equipped with
one 13-amp socket. The Guidelines are
posted on the back of the door to each Room.
Appliance instructions
If you suspect there is any fault with any
appliance, ensure it is turned off and report it
immediately to staff at Lawrence Tower reception.
Please check that your appliance is in good
working order by looking for:
• No cracks or damage to appliance
casing.
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Cables should be free from damage,
no signs of burning, cuts or abrasions
and have no signs of non standard
joints (e.g. a taped up cable).
• That the appliance has the required
European Community Standard.
• That the equipment has a 3 pin 13
amp standard UK plug or the correct
adaptor.
• That the equipment is not rated above
3 KW or 13 amps.
No portable heaters. Because of the dangers
of overloading, extension leads and multiplugs are discouraged. Residential Services
will provide extension leads where they are
deemed necessary. Instruction leaflets for all
appliances are in the kitchen of your flat.
Laundry facilities can be found in Lawrence
Tower and the Student’s Guild. Each laundry
has dispensers for washing tablets. The
launderette in Lawrence Tower is card-operated
and these can be purchased from the machine
on the ground floor of Lawrence Tower. (see
Launderette page).
Television Licences: If you have a TV in your
flat you will need a Television Licence. The
Licence is for 12 months. The good news is
you can apply for a refund if you find that you don’t need
your TV Licence for any full three-month period of cover
remaining on it. For example, for the last quarter of the year
if you go on summer break.
Saving Electricity
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Turn your appliances of at the wall, do not
leave them on standby.
Only boil as much water as you need.
Always turn off your lights when
you leave a room.
2. Information
Portable Appliance:Testing
Get your appliances checked
Residential Services takes the health
and safety of all residents very seriously
so would remind residents that, in
accordance with the Accommodation
Licence Agreement, all your electrical
equipment must have a Portable
Appliance Test (PAT test) and an “in
date” Pass Sticker before being used
in Aston University Accommodation.
For those residents who have been unable to
have electrical equipment tested prior to taking
up residence there will be Portable Appliance
Testing Clinics on the following days:
Week commencing 12th October 2009
Monday – Thursday 13:00 – 21:00
Week commencing 19th October 2009
Monday – Thursday 13:00 – 21:00
Additional clinics will be arranged dependant
on demand.
Four test engineers will be on site, one each in:
Stafford Tower Lounge
Lawrence Tower Lounge
Dalton Tower Lounge
Lakeside Reception Area
PAT Testing vouchers can be purchased for
£5 each from OPERON, the Facilities
Management Company responsible for the
maintenance of the residences at Aston
University. Each voucher purchased entitles
you to have up to 6 items checked, an
appointment will be made when purchasing
your voucher, with testing location, date and
time confirmed. If you miss your appointment
it will be necessary to book another appointment
through OPERON. Vouchers will be on sale
between 10.00am and 4.00pm Monday to
Friday from 21st September 2009 until 9th
October 2009 from the OPERON office
located on the ground floor in Stafford Tower.
Please note that after 23rd October 2009 the
discounted rate will no longer apply and PAT
testing will be £2.50 per piece of electrical
equipment and again by appointment, which
can be arranged by contacting the OPERON
Helpdesk on ext 5059 or 0121 204 5059.
To re-iterate, Residential Services and OPERON
takes the health and safety of all residents very
seriously. To that end, and in accordance with
your Licence Agreement, electrical equipment,
including adaptors, found to be in an unsafe
condition, that will endanger a person(s);
•
•
•
for example cause an electric shock
or start a fire
or cause damage to the building, for example by tripping the electrical
circuit
will be labelled accordingly and recorded,
they MUST NOT BE USED during your stay in
residences. If a ‘Failed’ item is found in use it
will be removed and stored in a secure place,
and can be collected upon your departure
from residences.
Electrical equipment which has not been PAT
tested can trip electrical circuits in residences
necessitating the call out of an electrical
engineer to effect a re-set. The charge for this
is a minimum of £25 per call out, which will be
passed on to the resident responsible. In
addition, the electrical equipment will be
moved to a secure area until it passes a PAT
test or is removed from site.
Untested electrical equipment found in
residences will, in the first instance, have a
warning label put on it advising “not to be
used, requires PAT testing”. If not tested after
this warning it will then be removed from the
accommodation and stored in a secure place
until it can be tested or removed from site.
If you have any queries or concerns with
respect to having your electrical equipment
tested then please either speak to your
Residence Officer or contact the OPERON
helpdesk on ext 5059 or 0121 204 5059.
2. Information
launderette:lawrence tower
Wash and go
The launderette is located on the
ground floor of Lawrence Tower,
and is operated by OPERON.
To use the washing/drying machines you first
need to purchase a laundry card for £5 from
the ‘card dispensing’ machine situated
opposite the reception in Lawrence Tower
(this £5 will be refunded upon your departure
from Residences). As with telephone cards the
laundry card needs to be credited with money
before it can be used. Credit can be purchased
from one of the ‘pay-stations’ on either side of
the ‘card dispenser’ with a £5 or £10 note
(follow the on screen instructions).
To use the machines you should insert the
card into the relevant operating station as
per the instructions displayed throughout the
launderette.
The cost for using a washing machine is £1.80
and for the drier £1 for 50 minutes, and this
will be automatically deducted from the credit
on your card.
The laundry opens each day from 8.00am until
10.00pm, with the last wash being at 9.15pm.
The cost of the laundry card plus any remaining
credit is refunded upon vacating your
accommodation, by presenting a valid card
at the OPERON office on the Ground floor of
Stafford Tower (Monday to Friday, between
9.00am and 4.00pm).
2. Information
student:services
Always here to help
Every one of our students is supported
in academic, social and welfare terms.
Our campus facilities and support services
provide everything you need for academic
success and a social life that is lively and varied.
Our Student Services team are constantly at
hand to support you as you work to maximise your
academic and personal potential. Student
Services provide a professional and confidential
counselling service so that you can discuss
any problems and anxieties that may arise during
your time at the University. Offering practical
support, our team is trained to give you the
most up-to-date advice and information
– whatever is right for you.
The Aston Student Advice Point (ASAP) is a
drop-in point and resource centre with free
internet access, interview rooms and Advice
Pods. The Advice Point brings a number of key
University services for students together in a
single space for ease of student use and can
deal with most non-academic issues. ASAP
services are confidential with high levels
of staff skills, experience and knowledge available.
For International and EU students, ASAP
provides the International Student Support Unit
with three staff including two International/EU
Student Advisors and an Events Coordinator.
The International team are able to provide a
high quality and efficient visa and immigration
service as well as dealing with all welfare and
pastoral issues, from integrating with UK culture
to homesickness and the practical issues or
challenges we all face from time to time. The
team is well experienced, professional and
approachable and if they are unable to help directly, they
will always refer students to where they can access the
assistance they need.
easy:advice
2. Information
healthy:life
From top to toe, Doctor, Dentist and Optician
Our Health Centre, located in Boots
The Chemist in the modern Halcyon
Medical Centre is less than 10 minutes
walk from campus in Birmingham city
centre.
registration process. If you do not have access
to your medical card, or have not previously
been registered with a GP in the UK, then
please complete the GMS 1 form included in
your Enrolment Pack.
The centre is open is open seven days a week
and offers several specialist clinics. All treatment
is given under the NHS.
There is also a dental surgery and opticians on
campus.
There is a satellite health clinic on campus
itself as well as a dental surgery and optical
clinic, both on campus.
All students on courses for three months or
more are eligible to register with the Health
Centre, and are advised to do so at the start
of their academic year.
If you are already registered with a GP in the
UK, your medical records can be obtained
quickly from your previous GP. This enables us
to give you the best possible health service.
To help us, if you have a UK medical card
which has your NHS number printed on it,
please bring it with you. This will speed up the
Medical / Optical prescriptions
If you are being treated or have an on-going
condition such as diabetes, see your doctor
before you leave to get photocopies of medical
records and prescriptions to give to the
University Doctor. Make sure you have the
full name and address of your family doctor in
your home country.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you
should also see your optician to get a copy of
your prescription. If you wear contact lenses,
you should get advice from your optician on
what solutions to use here. Solutions can be
expensive in the UK so you may like to bring
a supply of your normal contact lens solution
with you.
Halcyon Medical Centre Opening Times
Monday: 08.00 - 19.00
Tuesday - Friday: 08.30 - 18.00
Saturday: 10.00 - 16.00
Sunday: 11.00 - 14.00
Campus Satellite Clinic
Monday - Friday: 10.30 - 15.30
Halcyon Medical Centre
67-69 High Street
Birmingham
B4 7TA
Tel: 0845 072 4632
www.halcyonmedical.co.uk
2. Information
Financial Assistance Unit:(FAU)
The first stop for additional funding
The Financial Assistance Unit (FAU)
is a part of Student Support and is
based in the Aston Student Advice
Point (ASAP); here they provide
financial assistance to current Aston
University students via a number of
different funds, trusts and bursaries.
The FAU provide confidential advice and
support relating to student finances, including:
• Sources of available statutory funding.
• The Access to Learning Fund (ALF)
as well as various other Funds, trusts and bursaries, including an
International and EU Hardship Fund.
• Assistance with financial assistance
applications.
• Liaising with external funding
bodies (e.g. Student Finance Direct).
• Short-term loans.
The FAU administer and are responsible for a
number of different hardship funds, including
the Access to Learning Fund. You may be
eligible for financial assistance towards the
cost of:
• Course costs.
• Accommodation costs.
• Travel.
• Childcare.
• General living costs (Rent, utility
bills etc).
• Disability-related costs not
covered by the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA), including
Educational Psychologist’s reports.
• Placement start-up costs (Rental
deposits, etc,).
Please note that all the funds administered have strict
eligibility criteria, please contact the Fund’s Administrator
for more details and have a look on the FAU web pages.
The ASAP is open between the following hours:
Term Time
Monday – Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm
Vacation Time
Monday – Friday 10.00am – 2.00pm
If you would like to make an appointment
to discuss your needs with the
Student Funds Administrator,
please telephone ASAP on
0121 204 4711
3. Campus Life
students’:guild
A great union
Aston Students’ Guild is the centre for
students’ social lives, entertainment,
facilities and a whole lot more.
The Guild is the equivalent to what other
universities call their Student Union and not
only houses the majority of the social life that
takes place on campus but also a wide range
of services, societies and clubs that students
need whilst studying at Aston.
Being a relatively small university, it’s very easy
to become involved in clubs and societies
and with a huge range to choose from, there’s
something for everyone. Clubs and societies
are a perfect way to meet new friends, try
something that you’ve never done before
and can even enhance your career prospects.
The Guild can provide you with the services
and support you need to get the most out of
your time here at Aston. It’s run by students,
for students. The Guild will become the centre
of your social life on campus and is the main
entertainment venue on campus, and is also
home to a range of facilities and support
services and a brand new social study area.
There is also a huge array of clubs and societies
you can join, giving you plenty of opportunities to
try something different and meet new people.
Facilities and services
As well as entertainment, the Guild offers a
range of practical and support services. These
facilities are designed uniquely for students,
and are either subsidised or offer low student
prices.
Services and facilities in the guild include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Advice and Representation Centre - for
help, support and advice on all aspects
of student life.
Student JobShop - helping you to find paid part-time work in the local area.
Students’ CopyShop – for all your photocopying requirements.
Meeting rooms for use by
students and societies.
Students’ Shop – general
store selling magazines,
newspapers, stationery,
snacks, sandwiches, etc.
Appleby Hair Salon.
Bank & cash points.
Sandwich and
coffee bar.
3. Campus Life
catering@aston
Stacks of snacks and choice for all tastes
Eating on campus
There are plenty of places to eat on campus
you will find Aston offers an impressive selection
of eateries on the city centre campus. In the
Main Building you can get snacks, sandwiches,
salads and pastries from Dolche Vita. Hot meals
are available in Cafe Lago on the 6th floor, as
well as snacks, paninis and sandwiches. Cafe
Libro is situated in the library.
In the Students’ Guild you can get good quality
pub grub from Einstein’s, sandwiches and
snacks from the Guild Shop and there’s also a
Subway. Aston University is a Fairtrade
establishment with a wide selection of produce
boasting the mark from coffee to cookies!
Pre-pay scheme
If you want to rest assured you’re getting a
well balanced meal each day whilst at living
on campus, you might want to consider the
pre-pay catered scheme. You’ll get a breakfast
and lunch or an evening meal.
Eating off campus
Birmingham is full of great value pubs cafes
and restaurants, and many offer student
discounts. Head to Chinatown, the Arcadian
Centre or the Bullring and you’re bound to
find something you like, or check out one of
Birmingham’s many curry houses.
Supermarkets & markets
There’s a supermarket on campus, and several
within walking distance of campus. If you want
to stock up for a few weeks there are also bigger
supermarkets close by. The Bullring Market
is open Tuesdays - Saturdays and is a great
place to buy cheap, fresh fruit and veg.
What to bring
Don’t bring too much food with you when
you move in - just enough to see you
through the first week or so. If your
parents are dropping you off at
Aston, make use of their car
and get them to take
you food shopping!
3. Campus Life
drugs:and smoking
Just say no
The University takes all reasonable
steps within its powers to discourage
the use of illegal drugs amongst its
students. We therefore remind students
living in residences that possession of
illegal substances is a criminal offence
as is possession with intent to supply.
It is the University’s policy not to tolerate the
use of illegal substances on its land or in its
buildings. Students found to be using drugs
or in possession of or knowingly allowing any
illegal substance, including cannabis, to be
used on or off campus will be disciplined in
accordance with the University’s Disciplinary
Regulations for Students in Residences.
Just say no – it makes sense
Policy on Smoking
In July 2007, the government introduced
legislation to protect the public from the
harmful effects of second-hand smoke.
As a result of this legislation, it is a criminal
offence to smoke in all communal areas in the
University’s halls of residence, such as halls,
kitchens, bathrooms, stairs, shared bedrooms,
entrances/doorways and lifts. The offence of
smoking in a smoke-free place carries a fixed
penalty of £50 and up to £200 if you fail to
pay the fine and the case is referred to the
courts.
“Smoking” is defined very broadly by the
legislation and refers to smoking tobacco or
anything which contains tobacco, or smoking
any other substance. It also includes being in
possession of:
•
•
•
lit tobacco or
anything lit which contains tobacco;
any lit substance in a form in which
it could be smoked.
Smoking therefore includes cigarettes
(manufactured or hand rolled), pipes, cigars,
herbal cigarettes, water pipes (including
shisha, hookah and hubble-bubble pipes).
The University, as an owner of smoke-free
premises, has a statutory duty to stop
individuals from smoking in these areas, failing
which it will incur a fine of up to £2,500. In
order to ensure that the University discharges
its duty, a fine will be imposed on any student
who is found smoking (as defined above) in
smoke-free areas in the University’s halls of
residence. The amount of that fine will be
£50 for each offence and will be imposed in
accordance with the University’s disciplinary
procedures as set out in the Code of Practice
for Behaviour in University Residences. Repeat
offences may be regarded as a serious breach
of the Conditions of Residence, culminating in
expulsion from halls.
In the interests of health and safety, the
University has designated all remaining areas
of the halls of residence smoke-free areas.
Accordingly, the Conditions of Residence
prohibit smoking anywhere in the University’s
residences, breach of which will also be
considered a disciplinary offence.
3. Campus Life
visitors:and guests
Always welcome...
We always welcome visitors and
guests to Aston University and we
endeavor to make their visit as
relaxed and interesting as possible.
We also recommend that visitors use public
transport where possible, as Birmingham city
centre is within easy reach of many parts of
the UK and the region.
easy:access
Overnight Guests
Please be aware that visitors/guests who are
perceived as being a nuisance will be required
to leave, as well as being subject to the normal
regulations of the University (if they are a student).
Visitors with disabilities or additional needs
Lowered kerbs, lifts and adapted facilities,
along with the compact and flat nature of the
40 acre Aston campus, all help facilitate the
mobility and general well-being of those with
disabilities.
Disabled car parking is available at most
locations but spaces will need to be booked
in advance, on +44(0) 121-204-4738, or the
department you are visiting.
Visitor Parking
Our city centre location means there is high
demand for visitor parking on campus, there
is no on campus parking for open days and
other day-time events.
If there are no spaces available on campus,
there are alternative pay car parks nearby.
The University has some guest rooms that
are available for rent. The cost is £25.00 per
night for a single room and £45.00 per night
for a double room. To check availability, please
contact 0121 204 4713.
Visitors may be allowed to stay for two
consecutive nights (as per the Conditions of
Residence) provided the following guidelines
are adhered to:
Overnight guests must be booked into Lawrence
Tower Reception and signed in- Students are
only allowed one guest at a time.
The lending of rooms (‘subletting’) or giving
you room keys/swipe card to anyone else is
not permitted and sorry but children may
not stay on campus at any time.
May we remind you that failure to
comply with any of these
guidelines will result in
disciplinary action against
the offending residents.
3. Campus Life
be safe:be secure
Safety first
Please be aware that residents are
solely responsible for the security
of their personal belongings and the
University accepts no responsibility
for loss or damage unless as a result
of the University’s negligence.
Your study bedroom should be locked whenever
you leave it unattended and, if you live on the
ground floor or in the low-rise residences, all
windows should be secured even for a short
period. The same applies to kitchen and flat
doors which should remain locked, particularly
at night.
Any loss should be reported to Residential
Services staff or Security. All staff and students
are issued with identity cards and any stranger
should be asked for proof of identity. Any
person seen acting suspiciously should be
reported immediately to the Security Office or
Residential Services staff. If you see, hear or
experience any unusual occurrence (e.g. the
presence of an intruder), report to Security.
The University operates 24-hour CCTV coverage
for the protection of staff, students and visitors,
and our Security staff patrol the site regularly.
Please ensure that the entry doors to your flats
remain closed at all times, thus preventing
intruders gaining entry. In the event of an
emergency e.g. vandalism, suspected intruder,
theft, please contact security staff by dialling
2222.
Look after your key. If you do lose it, report the
loss to Lawrence Tower Reception immediately.
You will be charged for a replacement key.
Money and valuables should never be left
unattended in public areas. Always keep your
room locked when you are not in it and close
and secure the window. Not only could you
suffer considerable personal loss but loss or
damage to the University property in your room
will be charged to you if your room was left
unoccupied and unlocked.
If you have a laptop computer or other expensive,
easily portable equipment, make sure it is kept
secure.
More and more people are now choosing to
put information about themselves online.
This could be through social networking sites
such as Facebook or MySpace, blogs or
online CVs. It is important to remember
that any site where you leave personal
information about yourself could
leave you open to misuse of
your information or fraud.
3. Campus Life
room:inventory
Furnishings, fittings and equipment
On arrival each resident is required to
check and sign a room inventory and
a statement relating to the condition
of the fabric and decoration of the
flat/room.
The inventory contents vary depending on
the type of accommodation provided. Any
discrepancies or inaccuracies should be
recorded on the inventory, which must then
be returned within 48 hours of your key
collection to your Residence Officer or
Lawrence Tower Reception.
Students are individually responsible for their
own room and are collectively responsible for
furnishings, equipment and cleanliness in the
shared parts of the buildings. Inspections are
carried out each term and at the end of the
Licence period.
Residents are charged for any missing items
or damage caused to any part of the
accommodation. Residents are not permitted
to install additional furniture or electrical
appliances (see Conditions of Residence) in
rooms or communal areas within residences.
Residents are reminded that personal
belongings should not be left on the premises
after termination of the agreement – see
Conditions of Residence.
International students who need to arrange
storage of personal effects until the following
academic year, details are available from Aston
Student Advice Point (Upper Foyer in the Main
Building).
3. Campus Life
damage:replacement
List of damage/replacement charges 2009/10
Please refer to the Terms and
Conditions and Licence
Agreement in relation to all
losses, breakages and damages.
Details of typical charges which
you may incur are listed below.
Certain charges will require confirmation,
for example, where a cost is subject
to an invoice, and therefore this list
should be used as an indicator of the
approximate cost you will be charged.
Please note that this list is not exhaustive
and all amounts are subject to an
administration fee of £10 or £25.00
for a communal charge. If malicious
damage occurs out of hours and an
Engineer is required to attend ‘call out’
charges will be added.
This information is correct at time
of going to print.
June 2009
Replacement Study Room Waste Paper Bin
Replacement Study Room Chair
Replacement Kitchen Chair
Arm Chairs - Dirty Arm Chairs - Damaged Replacement Curtains
Replacement Net Curtain
Door Handle
Door Hinge
Door Closer
Signage replacement
Wall Redecoration - per study bedroom wall Kitchen Redecoration
Ceiling Redecoration
Replacement Notice Board
Damage to Notice Board
Special Clean – Study Bedroom Special Clean – Kitchen Carpet Clean - Study Bedroom Carpet replacement - Study Bedroom Replacement Fridge/Freezer Flaps
Replacement Salad Box in Refrigerator
Replacement Fridge/Freezer
Oven Glass
Grill pan and handle
Replacement Hob
Oven Trays
Over bed desk light repair
Over desk light fitting replacement
Vanity light mirror
Full length mirror - Lakeside
Wardrobe Doors
Wardrobe Rail
Bedside Cabinet
Book Shelf
Henry Vacuum Cleaner
Replacement Light Fittings (Depending on type )
Internet Antenna
£11.00 £33 - £77
£16.50
£22.00
£55.00
£77 - £120
£13.20
£18.00
£18.00
£74.91
TBA
£69.60
£71.50
£74.40
£59.70
£29.59
£27.50
£10.00 per student £27.50
£215.00
£22.00 £29.70
£299.00
£68.60
£28.60
£140.80
£54.36
£12.76
£17.60
£20.51
£62.26
£50.00
£18.64
£41.80
£29.70
£118.80
£20.00 - £95.00
£126.50
Carpet Clean - Corridor Carpet replacement - Flat corridor Damage to Carpet
Vinyl floor replacement - Kitchen area Vinyl floor replacement - Bathroom area Windows boarding up Windows Re-glaze (Depending on Size) Unblock Hand Washbasin
Replace Hand Washbasin - Lakeside Residences Replace Hand Washbasin - Dalton Tower Replace Hand Washbasin - Stafford Tower Light Cover Diffuser
Ceiling Light fitting replacement
Vanity Light replacement
Radiator repair
Radiator replacement
Extension Lead
Kitchen cupboard door
Kitchen cupboard shelf
Desk replacement
Desk repair
Replace Flat Door (Fire Door) Replace Study Room Door (non-fire door) Damage to electrical sockets
Replacement Cistern
Replacement Microwave
Ironing Board
Fire Blanket
Smoke Detector
Fire Extinguisher Refill
Fire Extinguisher Replacement
Break Glass
Shower Door - Lakeside Bathroom Door replacement
Damage to Tiles – Shower Pod Lakeside Window Bar
Lakeside Window Mechanism
Fire Alarm Activation
£27.50
£550.00
TBA
£324.50 - £1000
£63.50
£22.49
£50 - £310
£16.50
£56.98
£99.88
£99.00
£21.00
£40.15
£30.00
£22.49
£108 - £200
£11.00
£45.00
£29.70
£145.20
£62.04
£495.00
£104.50
£47.60
£49.50
£66.00
£16.50
£15.95
£275.00
£18.30
£51.81
£17.53
£192.17
£79.53
£90 per sq m
£27.22
£35.47 - £600
£25.00
3. Campus Life
here:to help
Operon facility management system
A new facility management system,
operated by Operon, which allows
students to report maintenance
issues relating to their student
accommodation, has been
introduced at Aston University.
It is called ‘MainManager’.
A user friendly ‘fault report menu’ has been
produced enabling students to register
maintenance issues (faults) themselves via the
internet, rather than reporting them to Lawrence
Tower Reception, although this facility will still
be available. Links to the maintenance fault
reporting system are as follows:
http://aston.lht.is/ContentPopupOperon.a
spx?tag=Complaint&load=7&viewkey=
Operon&maingroupid=10&companyid=137
http://www1.aston.ac.uk/study/
accommodation/maintenmaintenancefault-reportance-fault-report/
Students should follow these instructions in
order to complete the form:
1. Students will be required to fill in their full name, student number, phone number and email address.
This is to enable future follow ups
and also for the purpose of contacting
the student regarding a particular
fault should the need arise.
2. Students will then have to indicate
the location of the fault in three
stages: firstly choose the building,
then the floor, and lastly the final
space, e.g. study bedroom, kitchen,
bathroom etc. After students have
made the choice, a path will appear below confirming the location.
3. The third step is to select the fault.
Most common faults have been
identified in the drop down menu.
However, in the case of a fault not
being listed, you are able to type
in the details in the description field
by choosing ‘Other’ on the drop
down menu.
4. Students have the option to ‘tick’
the box at the bottom of the page if
they require to be informed of the
progress of the fault. An email
notification will be sent to you.
5. Finally, there is a choice to either
Cancel or Submit the Fault.
In the event of you experiencing any difficulties
with this process, please contact the Operon
Help Desk on 0121 204 5059.
In the case of an emergency, e.g. gas leak,
water flooding etc., students should contact
Lawrence Tower Reception or Security.
Operon
facility
management
system
3. Campus Life
student support:DANU
Disability and Additional Needs Unit
To help you plan and prepare for
university life, the Disability and
Additional Needs Unit (DANU) is
available to advise and support you
all on a confidential basis.
DANU run a Personal Assistance Scheme
which assists students with disabilities and
other support needs to live, study and enjoy
student life as independently as possible.
Support workers can provide assistance
with note taking, reading, transcription,
photocopying, keyboard manipulation and
mobility assistance. For example qualified
British Sign Language interpreters and dyslexia
support tutors can be provided.
DANU can also assist you by liaising with other
departments in the University on your behalf,
helping with applications for funding and
providing support for Open Days and interview
visits, as well as general advice and support
throughout your studies.
DANU provides highly confidential advice and
support on a wide range of disability-related
topics, including:
Please contact the Disability Co-ordinator
to arrange a visit or for further advice or
information:
email: [email protected]
phone: +44 (0)121 204 4711
•
•
•
•
•
Course and Exam Arrangements.
Accessibility.
Study Support Workers.
Dyslexia Screening.
Arranging Diagnostic Assessments.
DANU offers support to students with:
• Dyslexia or Specific Learning
Difficulties (SpLDs).
• Visual or Hearing Impairments.
• Mental Health Issues.
• Mobility or Dexterity Issues
Autistic Spectrum Disorders /
Aspergers Syndrome.
• Other unseen disabilities.
3. Campus Life
aston:A.C.R.A
Aston Campus Residents’ Association
All students who live on campus are
members of A.C.R.A - an association
for all students living on campus.
ACRA’s vision is to ‘help make
student life on campus easier
and more enjoyable’.
ACRA is an association for all the students
living on campus, and every campus resident
is automatically a member. ACRA’s vision is
to ‘help make student life on campus easier
and more enjoyable’. This is done by providing
a range of services at low prices, organising
events and acting as a point of contact for
student queries. ACRA is funded by campus
residents by a subscription of £12.50 that is
paid as part of your accommodation deposit.
ACRA is run by a co-ordinator (Thomas Conlon)
and an executive committee consisting of
nine students who work part-time for the
association.
ACRA can provide student services such as
printing and binding (everything to make your
coursework and presentations as professional
as possible) and we organise lots of activities
such as trips to Alton Towers and Cadbury
World (All student budget friendly, of course!).
We even organise student holidays for you and
your friends to celebrate or even commiserate
exam results!
ACRA is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am
4.30pm (closed for lunch from 12.30pm to
1.30pm).
ACRA can be contacted on:
Telephone: 0121 204 4719 (Stafford Tower)
Fax: 0121 333 3068
e-mail: [email protected]
a.c.r.a.
3. Campus Life
bank:accounts
Money, money, money
Having a current Bank Account is
going to be vital throughout your
student life and in the future.
If you don’t have a current Account it is
essential that you open one before arriving at
University (or before arriving in the UK if you
are an International student), as it will take a
couple of weeks before you will be able to use
this account.
If you are an International student then we
recommend you bring around £300 in cash
and a further £300 in traveller’s cheques to
cover your general living expenses for the first
few weeks you are in the UK.
Bank Accounts
Most of the main UK banks offer students a
basic bank account with a cash card to
withdraw your money from ATM machines,
more commonly referred to as cash points.
Banks open between 9.00am and 5.00pm
on weekdays and 9.30am and 12pm on
Saturdays, although ATM machines can be
accessed 24 hours a day.
Only a few banks will offer you a cheque book
or debit cards and an overdraft facility and a
credit card are not usually offered until you
have established a credit history.
You can request a letter that states you are a
student of the University, for the purpose of
opening a bank account, from the Aston
Student Advice Point (ASAP). Several banks
are located in Birmingham City Centre, within
easy walking distance of the campus.
To open an account you will need the
following documents:
•
•
•
Passport.
Bank Letter from Aston University (available through MAP).
Your University unconditional offer
letter that you received at your home
residential address (the bank is looking for evidence that the
University has corresponded with
you at your place of residence).
• Your University/private accommodation
contract for your term-time
accommodation.
• For International students - A recent
bank statement or credit card
statement from your home bank
translated into English and
containing your residential
address (the statement must
be less than 3 months old).
3. Campus Life
easy:FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in my accommodation?
For the duration of the licence period including
the Christmas and Easter vacations.
Is there single sex accommodation?
There is a limited amount of single sex
accommodation available – this cannot be
guaranteed.
Is there accommodation adapted for
special needs?
There are 8 rooms adapted for special needs,
4 each in standard and Lakeside residences.
I have a medical condition, which may
have a bearing on my allocation, will this
be taken into account?
We will try to take into account any medical
condition relevant to living arrangements,
however this cannot be guaranteed.
Can I view my accommodation before
moving in?
Yes, by prior appointment with Lawrence Tower
Reception staff.
What is included in my rent?
All utility and cleaning charges are included.
Details of fees can be found on the University
website.
What do I need to bring?
You need to bring bedding (including a pillow),
towels, crockery, pots, pans and cutlery.
Is there anything I should not bring?
Do not bring: rice cookers, candles, chip pans,
oil heaters, tea lights, joss sticks, laser pens,
weapons and pets!
Where can I eat if I don’t want to cook?
There are a number of University outlets on
campus providing a range of meals and drinks.
Can I connect to the Internet in my room?
Internet access is provided throughout the residences. (Cost available on arrival).
Can my family and friends telephone me in
my room?
With the exception of Lakeside residences,
where each study bedroom is equipped with
a telephone, each flat has a card telephone,
which accepts incoming calls.
What about insuring my possessions?
All students are strongly advised to take out
personal belongings insurance cover.
Do I need a television licence?
All TV sets used in residences are required by
law to be licensed. www.tvlicensing.co.uk
Can I bring a pet?
No pets may be brought into or kept in
accommodation, even goldfish!
Can I have decorative candles in my room?
The use of lighted candles, tea-lights, aromatic
oil heaters, joss sticks or any other device
which has a naked flame, other than smoker’s
materials, is expressly prohibited in University
accommodation.
What alternatives are there to University
accommodation?
There are landlords throughout Birmingham
offering student accommodation, as well as a
number of major private sector accommodation
providers. See our website.
Can I bring my car or motorcycle?
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer parking
facilities to students, except those with a
disability.
Can I bring a bicycle?
Bicycles are allowed but must be stored in the
bicycle racks situated around campus and
residences, not in your accommodation.
What about security and welfare?
There is 24-hour security and welfare provision.
Can I have guests to stay in my room?
Yes, subject to the Conditions of Residence
(obtained with your accommodation offer).
Alternatively, there are a limited number of
guest rooms, subject to availability.
Is there a cleaning service?
Communal areas are cleaned regularly as are
the shower pods in Lakeside. Further details
can be obtained from your Residence Officer
on arrival.
Is there a launderette on campus?
The launderette is based on the ground floor of
Lawrence Tower and is for the use of all
campus residents. The current cost for the
washing machine is £1.80 and the cost of a
dryer is 20 pence for approximately 6 minutes.
What recycling arrangements are available
on campus?
There are recycling containers available
on campus for residents to use.
3. Campus Life
room:transfers
Room transfers, vacancies and disputes
During the first few weeks in
University accommodation many
new students make friends in another
part of campus, or prefer facilities in
a different building to the one they
were originally allocated, and want to
change rooms.
Accommodation Office. This is to ensure a
new licence agreement is created so that each
resident is charged accurately.
The early part of term is very busy and it is
difficult for the Accommodation Office to
handle such requests. Experience has shown
that very soon most students settle and make
friends in their accommodation and no longer
wish to move. For these reasons from the start
of the Autumn Term until the end of October,
room changes are not considered or permitted.
Vacancies arising before that date are offered
to any suitable new applicants who still have
to be housed on campus.
Any student applying for a room transfer must
complete the relevant form, which will be
emailed to all students on campus in October.
An administration charge is made, once a
transfer has been agreed, arranged and
completed – see licence agreement. Room
transfers are not automatically granted, and
requests from new students or those living
off-campus are given priority for any vacant
rooms.
Please note that students are not permitted to
make informal exchanges of rooms, or swap
keys/swipe cards. All room transfers must be
arranged with, and authorised by, the
Reasons for moving that involve disputes or
complaints with neighbours should first of all
be referred to your Residence Officer, who
may be able to resolve the cause of any problem.
Disputes between residents
Students are expected to attempt to resolve
disputes amongst themselves, if possible. If
the dispute becomes difficult to resolve or
proves to be ongoing, then you are advised
to contact your Residence Officer who will
investigate your concerns. Contact details of
your Residence Officer can be found on the
Residential Services Staff list.
3. Campus Life
paying:rent
Paying your rent and fees
As a resident, you will be issued with
a Licence Agreement contained within
the Information and Conditions of
Residence booklet.
This will entitle you to occupy a room for one
residential year, starting at the beginning of
the first term, through to 26th June 2010,
inclusive of Christmas and Easter vacations.
(Rooms should be vacated by 10.00am on
26th June 2010.
Residential fees are charged for the whole
residential year and you will be issued with an
invoice that is payable each term. This covers
Term 1 and the Christmas vacation; Term 2
and the Easter vacation; Term 3 until 26th
June 2010. (This is inclusive of utility charges).
Once you have received your invoice, you
should make your payment either on-line via
www.payments.aston.ac.uk/MentecPlus
Web/NReg/default.aspx or at the Cashiers
Office in the Finance Department, located on
the ground floor of the main University Building.
(Please note, you will be responsible for
residence fees from the date given in the
accommodation offer letter – if you fail to pay
by the due date, this may result in University
sanctions being applied.)
Should you experience any financial difficulties
in relation to paying your residential fees or
any other amount payable to the University,
please contact the Credit Controller in the
Finance Department as soon as possible:
[email protected]
Should any additional fees be payable, due to
the unauthorised use of a room or damage to
property, they will be the responsibility of the
person who was allocated the room.
Under very exceptional circumstances, you
may be required to move to another room,
although every endeavour will be made to
ensure you remain in your allocated room.
Leaving Us?
If you decide to leave University you will have
to leave residences when you cease to be a
student at Aston. Please inform the Residence
Officer for your area. You will need a letter
from your School of Study confirming that you
are leaving, which must be handed in at the
Accommodation Office before you vacate your
room (see Licence Agreement). Once you
have returned the keys and they have checked
your room for damage, £150 of the deposit
should automatically be returned to you,
subject to the Information and Conditions
of Residence. This will be minus the
£12.50 for your ACRA subscription.
3. Campus Life
rent:schedule
Residence invoice, due date and sanction schedule
Residence Term 1 Academic Year 2009/2010
Term
Start Date
International /EU(Non-British ): 19th September 2009
Freshers: 26th September 2009
Returners: 3rd October 2009
Due Date
12th October 2009
12th October 2009
12th October 2009
Finance Reminder Letter 5th October 2009
5th October 2009
5th October 2009
Notice to Withdraw from Halls
30th November 2009
30th November 2009
30th November 2009
Due Date
15th January 2010
Finance Reminder Letter
11th January 2010
Notice to Withdraw from Halls
26th February 2010
Due Date
23rd April 2010
Finance Warning Letter
12th April 2010
Debt Recovery - University Solicitors
30th April 2010
Residence Term 2 Academic Year 2009/2010
Term
ALL:
Start Date
9th January 2010
Residence Term 3 Academic Year 2009/2010
Term
ALL: Start Date
17th April 2010
3. Campus Life
recycling:and litter
Playing your part in keeping Aston clean
The University has made a high
level commitment to reduce waste to
landfill by 20% by 2009 and aims to
achieve zero waste to landfill by 2012.
There will soon be plastic bottle bins around
campus where it will be possible to recycle
plastic bottles only. Unfortunately, other types
of plastic cannot currently be recycled.
Aston University aims to achieve these
challenging targets through the introduction of
a high profile binless office system supported
by mini recycling centres for source segregation
of waste streams. There is a comprehensive A
to Z of recycling on our website.
There are two textile recycling banks on
campus, located by Dalton Tower and
Stafford Tower.
There are can and glass bins and banks
around campus. All types / colours of glass
can be mixed together, except in the large
banks located by Dalton Tower and Stafford
Tower, which are for segregated glass.
Litter
Litter is the most visible sign of pollution
and remains one of our major environmental
problems. Litter is anything left where it is not
meant to be. Litter is piling up on the streets
and encourages rats. Litter in a public place
is unsightly, dangerous to animals, and an
All types of paper can be recycled in the paper
recycling bins around campus, including
newspapers, office paper, shredded paper
and cardboard.
Household style batteries (AA, C, etc.) should
be recycled in the battery recycling bin in the
main building reception area.
offence. The Environmental Protection Act of
1990 states that if a person drops, throws,
deposits, or leaves anything that causes
defacement in a public place they are
committing a littering offence.
Please dispose of all rubbish carefully and
ensure rubbish bags are tied to avoid spillage.
Always use the litter bins provided on campus.
Please use the re-cycling bins on campus
whenever possible.
Play your part … keep the university
campus and city streets
clean and tidy.
3. Campus Life
saving water:and electricity
Careful use can help the planet
There are lots of ways of reducing
costs for you and for the University.
Here are a few ways you can help
yourself, help the University and the
environment.
Water
Reduce water consumption by employing best
practice. Each person in the UK currently uses
about 150 litres of water every day. By making
a few changes you will be helping to cut demand
on our most important natural resource. By
saving water you can help protect wildlife like
birds and fish that live in rivers and wetlands.
Saving tips:
In the Bathroom
•
•
Do not shower longer than necessary.
Time your shower to keep it under 5
minutes. You could save up to 1,000
gallons a month.
Do not let the water run when brushing
your teeth. You could save between
4-9 litres each time you brush.
•
•
•
•
Do not use your toilet to flush away
cotton wool balls etc; they should go
in the bin. It saves gallons every time.
Prevent taps from leaking by turning
them off properly. Report dripping
taps immediately.
If you wet shave - to rinse your razor,
run a little water into a plugged sink.
Rinsing your razor under a running
tap wastes lots of water.
If you really need to take a bath…
Plug the bath before turning the water on, and
then adjust the temperature as the bath fills
up. Only half fill the bath. Check the temperature
of your bath as it fills. This reduces the amount
of water you use and cold water you have to add.
In the Kitchen
•
•
•
Wash vegetables in a bowl rather
than under a running tap.
Select the proper size pans for cooking.
Large pans require more water than
may be necessary.
The most water efficient methods for
•
•
•
•
cooking vegetables are microwaving,
steaming or using a pressure cooker.
You can also cut down on water loss
by using tight lids on pots and simmering
instead of boiling rapidly.
Thaw frozen foods before you need
them or use the microwave instead of
placing them under running water.
Use a bowl rather than the sink for
washing up and don’t do it under a
running tap under a running tap and
use another bowl full of clean water to
rinse.
Keep a jug of water in the fridge so you
do not have to run the tap until it goes
cold.
Kettles should be filled with enough
water for your needs but not to the brim.
3. Campus Life
aston:recipes
Healthy eating feeds the brain!
Eating well and cooking for
yourself may feel like the last thing
you want to do after a long day at
work or college or a late night. But
eating healthily doesn’t have to take
loads of time or cost loads of money.
Eating a healthy diet will give your
body what it needs to help you keep
up with your hectic lifestyle while
helping to keep you fit and healthy –
inside and out.
In putting this online booklet together, we
asked some of you what your favourite meals
were – both to cook for yourself and to be
cooked for you. Your top choices included
spaghetti bolognese, curry and a traditional
roast dinner with all the trimmings. So we’ve
included quick, easy and healthy recipes for
some of your favourite dishes for all sorts
of situations, as well as tips on how to eat
healthily when you’re out and about.
It’s recommended that we eat at least 5 portions
of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day.
They give you plenty of vitamins and minerals.
For example, many are naturally high in folate,
vitamin C and potassium. Fruit and vegetables
are also a good source of fibre and other
substances, such as antioxidants. These are
all important for your health.
Most fruit and vegetables are also generally
low fat, low calorie foods so eating fruit and
vegetables instead of foods that are high in fat
and added sugars makes it easier for you to
keep your weight within the healthy range.
In the longer-term, eating more fruit and
vegetables may help reduce the risk of the
two main killer diseases in this country - heart
disease and some cancers.
This online booklet will help you to fit more fruit
and veg into your diet and hopefully make it
easier for you to reach the target of at least 5
portions a day.
http://www.astonguild.org.uk/files/
minisites/3187/fuel_for_living_recipe_
bo.pdf
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3. Campus Life
useful:numbers
Staying in touch
Internal
External
• Accommodation Office
0121 204 4707 / 4704 / 4722 / 4706
• Aston Campus Residents
Association (A.C.R.A.)
0870 576763
• Credit Control
0121 204 4384
• Cashiers
0121 204 4404
• Chaplaincy
0121 204 4277
• Aston Student Advice Point (ASAP)
0121 204 4711
• Student Support
0121 204 4711
• Security (Emergency)
External 0121 359 2922
Internal 2222
• Students’ Guild (Welfare)
0121 204 4848
• University Health Centre
0845 07204632
• Campus Satellite Clinic
0845 072 4632
• Rail Bookings
08457 484950
http://www.networkrail.co.uk/aspx/779.aspx
• National Express
08705 808080
www.nationalexpress.com
http://www.travelwm.co.uk/
• TV Licensing Authority
0870 576763
http://www.tvlicensing.co.uk/index.jsp
• Birmingham International Airport
+44 (0)8707 335511
www.bhx.co.uk
• Visit Birmingham
0121 202 5115
www.visitbirmingham.com
4. City Life
a city:on your doorstep
Time to discover Birmingham
Aston University’s excellent location
within Birmingham City centre offers
you all the advantages of living in
England’s vibrant and multicultural
second city.
rallying cry for all foodies and Birmingham has
it all from the student favourite balti, a kind of
cheap and nutritious curry “discovered” in
Birmingham, to quality fine dining and
Michelin stars.
Birmingham is already home to over 65,000
students and is is widely recognised as the
place to come and study.
Arts and culture are at the very heart of
Birmingham and the City’s galleries offer
everything from the eclectic to the modern,
traditional and historic. Venues for live
performances and live music range from the
well known Academy to Symphony Hall, home
to the CBSO and regarded as the finest
concert hall in Europe.
Known as the youngest city in Europe,
Birmingham is flourishing and is internationally
recognised as a leader in leisure, entertainment,
business, shopping, industry and sport. The
city centre is a fusion of attractive squares,
modern shopping arcades, diverse pubs,
clubs and restaurants and fine museums,
theatres and art galleries – truly an
international city.
Everything is easy to access in Birmingham
with an International airport just 10 minutes
away and London just 2 hours drive. Getting
around Birmingham once you’re here is simple,
with cheap and efficient bus, train, tram and
taxi services. Walking is just as easy, as the
city centre is now almost totally pedestrianised
and is a safe and welcoming place.
Birmingham is a shopper’s delight. With a mix
of a revitalised centre, modern malls, vibrant
markets and hand made craft centres selling
everything from clothes to culinary experiences
from across the globe. Fantastic for food is a
So much to do…
There are so many places to go, and so much
to do that you will always be spoilt for choice
in Birmingham. Spend an evening in a canalside
café, pub or restaurant, take a trip to the cinema,
theatre or ballet or laugh the night away at the
Glee and Jongleurs Comedy Clubs.
easy:eating
Student discounts are available in many pubs,
cafés and restaurants throughout the city and
all tastes are catered for, with thriving English,
French, Cajun, Italian, Mexican, Spanish,
Austrian, Greek, Indian, Chinese, and Latin
American, Thai and Japanese restaurants
alongside the burger, pizza, vegetarian and
gourmet restaurants that characterise any
large European city.
Birmingham’s Chinatown boasts a wide range
of restaurants and interesting specialist
supermarkets, and for those who are fond of
curries, Birmingham is the capital of the ‘Balti’
– inexpensive Kashmiri cuisine served in a
wok-like metal dish.
easy:shopping
All over the city centre the shopping choice is
excellent with high-fashion boutiques nestling
alongside major ‘High Street’ names in a
compact pedestrian centre with many
undercover malls. Developments include the
famous Bullring, the Birmingham Mailbox and
not forgetting the iconic Selfridges and the
historical Jewelry Quarter.
Some of the finest art collections in the
world are to be found in Birmingham. The City
Museum and Art Gallery, the Gas Hall and the
Barber Institute of Fine Arts provide spectacular
settings for classical and modern works, while
the IKON Gallery on Brindley Place hosts
challenging exhibitions and serves great coffee.
The NEC and NIA host many of the country’s
major events and exhibitions including The
Motorcycle Show, Clothes Show Live and the
BBC Good Food Show. Birmingham has one
of the highest concentrations of live theatre
outside the West End of London; the Alexandra,
Birmingham Rep, Crescent, MAC, Hippodrome,
Library and Old Rep Theatres stage both
traditional and more innovative works.
residential:services
See you soon!
Residential Services
Accommodation Office
Aston University Aston Triangle
Tel: +44 (0)121 204 4707 +44 (0)121 204 4704 +44 (0)121 204 4706
Fax: +44 (0)121 204 4705
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.aston.ac.uk/accommodation