Before you

Leave Home
Handbook
2013/14
Checklist
Everyone
Page

Have you contacted us if you are unsure of anything or have any
problems? We are here to help! 40

Have you arranged insurance (belongings and travel)? 11

Have you organised your general finances including a student
or UK bank account? 9

Have you applied for funding or have sufficient money to cover
your tuition fees and maintenance for the first month? 9/29

Have you got your original education certificates? 25

Have you got suitable identification? 25

Have you made a detailed list of what you need to pack? 7

Have you emailed us a photo for your ID card? 17

Have you arranged your travel? 18

Have you arranged accommodation in London? 21

Have you read the information on the prospective students web page?

Have you looked at the sources listed in the Further information
section (including our Students Union webpages)? 39

Have you read the enclosed information from your department?

Have you completed the online Pre-Enrolment tasks using your eGo login? 16

Have you returned all forms to the School (e.g. Sundial Court licence agreement)?

Have you paid your tuition fee deposit (if applicable)? 29

Have you got documentation or reports you might need relating to any
disability? 14
International students only

Have you got your passport is it in date? 15

Have you organised your visa/entry clearance? 15

Have you communicated with your international buddy?

6

Have you put the International Students Orientation
(13 September) in your diary?

28

Have you sent in your English language certificate
if a requirement of your offer?

25
1
Section Description
Contents
Introduction 4
Equal opportunities statement 5
Before you leave 6
Buddy programmes 6
BA Technical Theatre Arts students 6
BA Acting students 6
BMus (Direct entry to years 2 or 3) 6
International students 6
Get in touch with the Students Union / chat with other students 7
What to pack? 7
Important identification documents 7
Other important things to pack 8
International Preparation 8
Language skills 8
International students and culture shock 8
Money 9
Funding 9
Bank accounts 9
Special note for non-UK students 10
Expenses when you arrive 11
Insurance 11
Travel insurance 11
Personal possessions insurance 11
Health 11
Declaration of Health form 11
What do I do if I have a long-term medical condition
or disability? 12
Registering with a doctor/GP 12
Dental and prescription charges 13
Vaccinations 13
International students 13
Health Insurance 13
Study Skills & Disability Services 14
Entry clearance 14
Immigration and entry clearance (visa) information 14
Contents
1
2
Section Description
Immigration and entry clearance application 15
Conditions of entry and attendance monitoring 15
Work 15
Where to seek help 15
Pre-Enrolment 16
What is eGo? 16
Conditions of your offer 17
ID card 17
Arrival 18
Travel into London 18
Travel to the School 20
Accommodation 21
Sundial Court hall of residence 22
Personal safety in London 22
Immigration and passport control 23
Registration with the police 23
Enrolment and the start of term 24
Welcome to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama! 24
What do I do on the first day of term? 24
When and where do I enrol? 25
What do I need to bring to enrol? 25
What happens if I dont have everything? 26
How do I prove Im a student once Ive enrolled? 26
How do I get a student travel discount card? 26
What information will be provided? 27
ID Card 27
Programme information 27
Freshers Fair 27
Student Affairs welcome desk 27
International Students Orientation 28
What happens if I am not able to attend? 28
Re-enrolment 28
Fees and funding 29
Tuition fees 29
If you have a UK student loan 29
If you have a Guildhall School Scholarship 29
Contents
3
2
4
3
Section Description
National Scholarship Programme 29
If you (or a relative/friend) are paying all or part of
your tuition fees 30
Tuition fee instalment plan 30
Maintenance (living costs) 31
If you are expecting a student loan or grant (UK students) 31
If you are expecting a Scholarship for maintenance
from the Guildhall School 31
Life at the Guildhall School 32
Student Charter 32
Student Handbook 36
Student communication 36
Email 36
Ezine 36
Information sessions and workshops 36
Weekly Roadshow 36
Money Mentors 37
Getting involved 37
Enjoy the Students Union Freshers Week activities 37
Sign up for a tour of local area and City University 37
Join a student club or society 37
Volunteer to help organise special events 38
Sustainability 38
Further information 39
Term dates 2013/14 39
Useful contacts summer period 40
The Music office 40
The Drama office 40
Students Union President 40
The Library 40
Finance Office 40
Student Affairs 41
Registry (general enrolment enquiries) 41
Sundial Court address 41
Location map 44
Contents
5
6
7
Introduction
We look forward to welcoming you to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama.
Before you arrive, there are many things you need to think about and prepare
in order to make the most of your time here.
This Before You Leave Home Handbook highlights the things you need to
organise before you leave home. We hope that you will find all the information
you need to ensure you enjoy your first few days at the School
and in London.
You will receive many more helpful tools upon your arrival to help you adapt to
life in a new environment.
The information in this handbook is for all students.
International Students: please look for sections enclosed in a grey box,
as these contain extra information which applies specifically to you!
We are pleased that you are coming to study here and we look forward to
meeting you!

Lauren OBrien Julia Lazarus
Senior Admissions Officer Student Life Officer
4
Introduction
Equal opportunities statement
The Guildhall School of Music & Drama is a department of the City of London
which has a comprehensive equal opportunities policy to which the School
is fully committed. Its aim is to ensure that everyone receives fair treatment
regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origins,
religious beliefs and non-beliefs, disability, age, trade union affiliations, political
beliefs or any other protected characteristics. The School is committed to
fostering an environment for students and staff free from discrimination,
prejudice and harassment and to pursuing equality of opportunity in the
delivery of its services and facilities.
5
Equal opportunities statement
Before you leave
There are many things to think about before you arrive at the School.
Weve tried to provide you with information in this booklet to help
you prepare. Start as early as possible and do ask for assistance if you
need help.
The Guildhall Schools website and dedicated web page for
prospective students will provide you with lots of useful information:
https://resources.gsmd.ac.uk/New_students/newstudents2013.html
Username: student
Password: 7GM5eF4
Buddy programmes
Buddies are current students who volunteer to make contact with new students
in order to answer any questions they may have with regard to the programme,
the School or student life in London. If you receive a letter, e-mail or phone call
from your buddy, do get back to them this can be a great way to find out
more about whats to come.
BA Technical Theatre Arts Students
New students are assigned a buddy who is a current student in the programme.
The Technical Theatre department sends the buddys contact details to the new
student, and encourages him/her to contact their buddy.
BA Acting Students
New students are assigned a buddy who is a 2nd or 3rd year student in the Acting
Programme. New students should hear from their buddies during the summer.
BMus (Direct entry to years 2 or 3)
Students who are entering directly into years 2 or 3 of the Bachelor of Music
programme are assigned a buddy who is usually a current student in the same
year of study as the new student. New students should hear from their buddies
during the summer.
International Students
New international students are assigned a buddy who is a current student,
sometimes from the same country. The scheme aims to provide international
students with more information about the different aspects of living and studying
in London. New students should hear from their buddies during the summer.
6
1
Before you leave
7
Before you leave
Get in touch with the Students Union / chat with other students
The Students Union will be sending you information about its plans for
Freshers week and how you can get involved in its activities. You can find
out information about the Union on its website www.gsmdsu.com.
The Union also has a Facebook page, GSMD SU. Here you can post questions
and thoughts before you arrive in London and find out about life at the School.
This is a great way to meet and chat with other students and you can start to
make friends before you arrive. If you have any other questions then you can
always get in touch with the Union directly. Its contact details can be found in
the Useful Contacts section of this handbook.
What to pack?
You will no doubt have lots of things you want to bring with you, and we suggest
you start to write a list to ensure you dont forget anything useful. Weve listed
some important items to start you off it is important that students who have
been offered a place at Sundial Court read the Sundial Court information pack
carefully, as this provides information about what is, and what is not, provided.
BA Technical Theatre Arts students will receive detailed equipment lists, and BA &
MA Acting students will receive a clothing and book list.
Important identification documents
You will often need to produce identification. This is for many reasons, including
opening bank accounts. Please see p23 for documents required for your first day.
Make sure you have the following documents with you (where applicable):
Passport (including visa)
Original qualification certificates (including English Language certificate if required)
Offer letter from Guildhall School
Recent UK bank statement
Confirmation of funding (from Guildhall School, Student Finance, EU Team,
sponsor etc)
Medical Card (UK students)
NUS ID card (if already a student)
National Insurance Number Card
Tenancy Agreement or Student Accommodation Contract
Prescription information
Photocopies of important documents e.g. passport
Recent non-UK bank statement showing you have funds to pay fees
National ID card.
Before you leave
Other important things to pack
Cheque book, debit/credit cards
Approximately 1100 worth of travellers cheques or funds in a bank
account and some cash
Specific equipment/clothes for your programme of study.
Preparing yourself
There are many wonderful tools that exist to help you prepare to study in the
UK. Prepare for Success is an interactive web learning tool for international
students who are getting ready to come to the UK. Dont miss out on this
great resource: www.prepareforsuccess.org.uk.
Language Skills
Studying in London is a great way to improve your English, but dont wait
until you get here to start working on it. Try meeting English-speaking people
in your home country before you leave, watch films in English, and read English
newspapers and magazines on the Internet. Think about relevant words youll
need to use such as musical terms on your programme, accommodation terms
when searching for a flat, and work-related terms when searching for a job. If in
doubt about your language skills, why not take a preparation course in English?
The British Council offers advice on how to find language courses in your home
country: http://www.britishcouncil.org/english
International Students and Culture Shock
Living in a new country and in a new culture can be a stressful
experience at first. There will be a period of adjustment, and you might
be surprised at how this change of environment affects you. The UK
Council for International Student Affairs has produced an excellent
information sheet about culture shock. Read it before you leave at
www.ukcisa.org.uk/student/information_sheets.php
Prepare by finding out as much as you can about the United Kingdom and
London. Why not purchase a travel guide to the UK?
8
Money
Funding
Information about funding was enclosed with your offer letter and is also
on our website. You should have already applied for funding or sponsorship
and ensured you have funds to cover your tuition fees and maintenance.
We estimate that you will need 1,0501,200 per month for maintenance
if you manage your finances appropriately. However if your lifestyle is
more extravagant or you have unavoidable additional costs you may spend
up to 1,500 per month. We recommend you use the guidance in the
Accommodation and Living Costs in London Handbook and websites such as
www.thebrightsidetrust.org/students to plan how much you personally will need
and ensure you have sufficient funds to meet these needs.
Make sure you have enough money before you arrive in London to live for
at least one month even if you are expecting a grant or loan since these
occasionally take one or two months to arrive. There are no immediate or
automatic funds available to students so you must be sure you arrive with
enough money to study and live in London.
If you are funding yourself, you should also ensure you have enough money
in your bank account to pay for your tuition fees.
The Schools funding guidance is available on our website:
www.gsmd.ac.uk/funding
If you have any further queries please contact our Student Funding Officer:
studentfundingofficer@gsmd.ac.uk
Try the Student Calculator which you can use to help you plan and manage
your money. You can log onto it at www.studentcalculator.org.uk
Try the International Student Calculator which you can use to help
you plan and manage your money. You can log onto it at
http://international.studentcalculator.org.uk/
Bank accounts
All students will need a UK bank or deposit account before or as soon as
they arrive in London.
This will allow you to pay fees, receive loans, grants or bursaries by BACS
or electronic transfer.
Most high street banks have branches five minutes away from the School.
9
Before you leave
Check that the account offers a basic debit card, and dont forget to look
carefully at the fine print on overdraft rates and bank charges.
Most banks offer a special student account which you can sometimes
open with your offer letter. They may require a special letter addressed to
them which Registry can provide on request once you have fully enrolled on
your programme.
If you require an unconditional offer letter to open a bank account prior
to enrolling, you will need to have met all entry criteria first (including
providing original certificates). Please contact Registry.
Special note for non UK students
It can be more complicated for non-UK students to open a bank account,
and unless you have a large deposit or are willing to pay for an account you
are unlikely to get one that offers more than a cash withdrawal card. Here
are some guidelines to help you:
Make sure you have an open bank account in your home country and
bring the details of that bank account with you:
Account number
Sort code
Address of your branch head office.
This information should be on your bank statements. If not, please contact
your bank, and ask for this information.
You will need your passport, proof of London address (e.g. tenancy
agreement), your current bank details, and a letter from the Guildhall School
addressed to the bank you wish to open an account with.
Registry will provide these letters after you have fully enrolled.
Please note it can take a few weeks until your bank account is open since
the bank in the UK may have to contact your bank in your home country.
Try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you. Travellers cheques can
be a safer way to have access to cash for your first few weeks in London.
Check with your bank in your home country to see if a cash card from
home can be used to withdraw money from UK bank machines, but be
aware there may be an additional charge for this facility.
It is important for international students to know that it is considered safe to
deposit funds into a UK bank or building society account. The Financial Services
Before you leave
10
Compensation Scheme (FSCS) covers all such deposits up to a maximum of
50,000 per person per institution in the event that the institution goes into
administration, and the governments actions to date suggest that it would
guarantee savings above this figure. In the event that you wish to deposit more
than 50,000, you should seek further financial advice. We advise all students
to open a bank account in the UK shortly after their arrival in London. In the
UK, large sums of cash must be kept in a bank account and never in your
bedroom or flat.
Students who are not ordinarily resident in the UK may be able to prevent
tax being deducted from their interest ask your bank for form R105.
Expenses when you arrive
Public transport, taxis, food and drinks are all expenses that can quickly add
up. Bring some cash (pounds sterling) with you to cover any costs on your
journey. We suggest that you bring 100200 with you. Please be vigilant
and keep your wallet or purse in a safe place.
Insurance
Travel insurance
It is advisable to take out travel insurance to cover your luggage and
belongings especially during transit to the UK. Arrange this in your home
country before you travel.
Personal possessions insurance
We strongly recommend that you take out personal insurance to cover yourself
against theft, loss or damage to your personal belongings. Although there
are many insurance companies in the UK, the National Union of Students
recommends Endsleigh Insurance (www.endsleigh.co.uk). Some students
also take out specific insurance on their musical instruments with insurance
companies such as Allianz Insurance (www.allianzmusicalinsurance.co.uk)
Health
Declaration of Health form
The Declaration of Health form will be available online through eGo from
mid-August (see Pre-Enrolment section). This must be completed as part of the
pre-enrolment tasks. This is to ensure that we offer you relevant support if you
have any medical conditions.
11
Before you leave
What do I do if I have a long-term medical condition and/or disability?
Please ensure any information about a long-term medical condition and/
or disability that may affect your studies is disclosed to the Health & Welfare
Manager and/or Disability Co-ordinator either in writing or by phoning
+44 (0)20 7382 7219. UK students may be eligible for a Disabled Students
Allowance; however, since you will need to be formally assessed to receive
this, you should get in touch with Student Affairs as soon as possible or it
may not be available in your first term of study. Please check the Prospective
Students resource webpage for the information sheet about applying for the
Disabled Student Allowance. Student Affairs will also try to get in touch with
all students who disclose information about a long-term medical condition and/
or disability before the start of term so that they can understand each students
specific needs and provide individual advice.
Registering with a doctor/GP
When you arrive in London, you will need to register with a doctor located
in close proximity to your residence. When registering with a doctor, you will
need to show some photographic ID and 2 proof of address documents (eg.
bank statement, utilities bill etc.). You must also take your medical card and
NHS number (if you are a UK resident). If you are an international student, you
should take your passport.
All full-time students studying in the UK in programmes lasting at least six
months are entitled to free medical treatment via the National Health Service
(NHS) including appointments with NHS doctors.
Students who have accommodation in Sundial Court Halls of Residence
must register with a local GP. Registration forms for the local surgery (the
Neaman Practice) will be provided by Student Affairs at the start of term.
If you are a UK resident, you must have your NHS number to register.
If you do not live in Sundial Court, you can obtain a list of GP practices in
your area by going online to the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk and
inputting the postcode of your UK residential address:
Telephone a GP practice from one of these lists and inform the practice that
you need to register with a doctor.
If you already have a medical card please take it along with you when you visit
the practice.
If you are an international student, and you do not have a medical card yet,
one will be sent to you after you register for the first time with a GP in the UK.
Before you leave
12
Dental and Prescription Charges
As a full-time student, you may be entitled to a reduction in price for dental
treatment and prescription charges. To take advantage of this, you need to
complete the HC1 form which is available by calling +44 (0)845 850 1166.
Student Affairs can also provide you with the HC1 form on your arrival in
September. Contact Student Affairs on 020 7382 7219 for further information.
Otherwise the Health & Welfare Manager can advise you of NHS prescription
and dental charges.
It is advised that you bring an adequate supply of your regular medication
with you, as well as copies of any prescriptions you may have as it can take a
long time to register with a doctor and organise new prescriptions.
Vaccinations
It is highly recommended that you have some vaccinations before you arrive;
this is indicated in the Declaration of Health form. If you are unable to obtain
screening vaccinations in your home country, the doctor who you register with
in London can administer the vaccinations.
Due to the increase of Tuberculosis (TB) in the UK in recent years, it is
important that all students are screened for TB antibodies and where
appropriate have the subsequent vaccination (BCG).
It is advisable to have a Meningitis C vaccination before you start your studies,
especially if you will be living in Sundial Court.
There have been nationwide outbreaks of Mumps and Measles, as a number
of young adults are not protected against this disease. The vaccination (MMR)
can be obtained through your General Practitioner or doctor. If you have a
record that you have had two mumps vaccinations, you do not need further
injections. If you have had one or no MMR vaccinations then it would be a
good idea to get this vaccination before you start your studies at the School,
either in your home country or through your new doctor in London.
13
Before you leave
International Students
Health Insurance
Free medical treatment via the UK National Health Service (NHS) is available
to full-time students studying in the UK on programmes lasting at least six
months. There is no fee to use the NHS doctor service, but international
students will have to pay for prescription medication. If you are an EEA or
Swiss National, you need to fill out the relevant form in your country of
residence to ensure your treatment is covered.
Students who are not EEA or Swiss nationals and who are registered for
programmes that last less than six months are not entitled to free health care
under the National Health Service scheme. If this applies to you, you must make
sure you take out adequate medical insurance before leaving your home country.
Please bring a record of prescriptions for medication, glasses and / or
contact lenses with you. EU students should ensure they have a
European Health Insurance Card. Information about this is available
at http://ec.europa.eu/social
Study Skills and Disability Services
The Study Skills and Disability Services Co-ordinator is based in Student Affairs
at Sundial Court, and can offer advice on funding and other practical issues for
students who declare a disability. We also have three dyslexia tutors to provide
academic support for students with specific learning difficulties.
If you have a Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia, Dyspraxia ADHD/ADD etc.)
and had an assessment after your 16th birthday, please bring your assessment
with you so we can set up the appropriate support and advise you on funding
(Disabled Students Allowance). If your dyslexia diagnosis occurred before your
16th birthday you will need to have another assessment.
Please try to have the assessment done before you arrive at the School, as we
can then organise your funding and have the appropriate support in place for
you when you start your studies.
If you have a disability we would encourage you to contact Student Affairs prior
to starting your course, so we can offer you an informal discussion regarding your
disability or specific learning difficulty and your studies at the Guildhall School.
Before you leave
14
Entry clearance
Immigration and entry clearance (visa) information
The following information is only a general guide, and we strongly recommend
all non-UK students to read the detailed information provided by: Home Office
Visas & Immigration website (www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk) and UKCISA
(www.ukcisa.org.uk).
If you are a national of the EEA or Switzerland, you do not need to obtain
entry clearance, however you may be asked to show evidence that you have
been accepted onto a programme of study (your offer letter) and you will need
your passport or identity card.
If you are not a national of the EEA or Switzerland, and if you will be spending
more than six months in the UK, you must obtain entry clearance before travelling.
Do this as soon as possible and check whether your visa has any restrictions.
For a list of countries in the EEA, please refer to
http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/eucitizens
Immigration and entry clearance application
If applying from outside the UK, read the UKBA guidance note
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/adult-students/
apply-outside-uk which refers to the necessary guidance, such as whether
or not you are required to apply online.
If applying from inside the UK, read the Home Office policy guidance www.ukba.
homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/studying/adult-students/applying-inside-uk
Please ensure you have read the full guidance information provided by
the Guildhall Schools information sheet, Tier 4 General Student Visa A
Guide for Students (2013-14), available to download from the Prospective
Students resource webpage: https://resources.gsmd.ac.uk/New_students/
newstudents2013.html or by contacting Lauren OBrien.
Conditions of entry and attendance monitoring
On a Tier 4 (General) student visa you are eligible to stay in the country for the
duration of your visa provided you remain a student at the Guildhall School.
If you stop attending your programme for more than a short period of time,
for any reason, you must return to your home country. The Guildhall School
operates an electronic swipe-in attendance monitoring system for all students,
and Tier 4 students must also enrol at the start of every term. Students enrolled
on postgraduate Music courses (excluding research) are also required to keep
an Academic Contact Log. The School will have to notify the Home Office of
any students with a Tier 4 visa who do not enrol within 10 days of the start of
each term, or who leave the programme.
15
Before you leave
Work
Unless your visa has a work prohibition, you can work part-time for up to 20 hours
a week during term-time and may work full-time during your holiday period;
however you must be able to satisfy the demands of your programme and BA
Acting students in particular are requested not to work during term-time.
The work you do must not fill a full-time permanent vacancy, you must
not be self-employed, and you must not work as an entertainer (paid
or unpaid) if you have a Tier 4 student visa.
Please note that even if you have previously had a work permit and are
working professionally, once you have a student visa, these regulations
apply. Some Tier 4 visa holders may be eligible to undertake employment
in professional performances subject to control by the Schools Outside
Engagement service; full details and Professional Performance Guidance
are available from the Music Office. There is also an information sheet
International students working as performers and entertainers available on
the Student intranet.
Where to seek help: Lauren OBrien and Julia Lazarus are happy to help
with any queries. UKCISA also have an advice line: +44 (0)20 7107 9922.
Pre-Enrolment
In mid-August you will receive your personal login details for the Electronic
Guildhall Operations system (eGo). Using eGo, you can undertake several pre-
enrolment tasks online before completing enrolment in person on 16th September.
The purpose of enrolment is formal registration with the Guildhall School and City
University (who validate our award-bearing programmes) and is a condition of
entry to the Guildhall School. You will be asked to sign forms confirming that you
will abide by City and the Schools Student Code of Conduct and policies (which
are available for reference via the admissions portal and subsequently available on
our Intranet).
16
Before you leave
What is eGo?
eGo enables you to view and update the live information held by the School on
the student records system. You will also be able to perform some tasks online
such as requesting student status letters and editing personal and contact details.
Your unique eGo login details and instructions will be emailed directly to you in
mid-August. If you have not received an email with eGo login details by the end of
August, please contact Registry.
You will be required to complete the Pre-Enrolment tasks before arriving at the
School to enrol. Tasks will include:
Inputting personal and contact details
Signing up to the terms of enrolment
Paying fees in advance
Filling in the Declaration of Health Form
Condition of your offer
The conditions of your offer are stated in your official offer letter. You will be
expected to have fulfilled all conditions of your offer before pre-enrolment, e.g.
paying the tuition fee deposit, taking an English language exam, undertaking a
DBS check (formerly CRB check) if applicable. If you are unsure of the condition of
your offer, please contact your academic department see Useful Contacts section.
ID Card
You must email a suitable photo of yourself to student.idphotos@gsmd.ac.uk
before 30 August 2013. Photos should be passport style (a close up of your
head & shoulders facing forward, with no other people/ objects in view). Please
save as .jpg file, with file size between 500kb and 1 MB, and ensure that you
include your name, programme and reference number (if possible) on your email.
Before you leave
17
Arrival
We would like to make your arrival here as easy and enjoyable as
possible. Many of you will be arriving on Saturday 14 September but
classes do not begin until Monday 16 September. This means that you
will have time to settle in and participate in some of the social events
organised by the Students Union and Student Affairs.
Travel into London
The closest underground station is Moorgate which is on the Northern Line Bank
branch, Metropolitan, Circle, and Hammersmith & City lines. Underground tube, bus
and train maps and information are all available free at most tube and train stations.
You might find it useful to purchase an AZ streetmap for use during your studies.
From Moorgate Underground Station to the Guildhall School of Music &
Drama and Sundial Court Hall of Residence
At Moorgate, get out at any exit and follow signs for Guildhall School of
Music & Drama.
Although the School and Sundial Court are only a 5 minute walk from the
station, at this point, you might want to refer to the map on page 42.
From Heathrow Airport to Central London
www.heathrowairport.com/transport-and-directions
By Underground
Heathrow has three London Underground stations: one for Terminals 1 and
3, one each for Terminals 4 and 5. Terminals 1 and 3 station is in the central
area between terminals, which are a few minutes walk away via underground
walkways. Terminal 4 and Terminal 5 stations are in the basement of the
terminal buildings. All stations are in Travelcard zone 6. Follow the signs
for the underground or ask for directions at any information desk or Travel
Centre. A single fare to central London costs approximately 5. Journey time
to London is approximately 5060 minutes.
By Train Heathrow Express
www.heathrowexpress.com
Runs from all Heathrow terminals to Paddington station every 15 minutes.
Journey time is 15 minutes to Paddington. Tickets cost 20 at the station (or
25 if bought on the train). Non-express rail services to Paddington station
are also available.
18
Arrival
2
By Bus or Coach
Heathrow Central bus station (open 24 hours/day) is between terminals 1,
2 and 3 (free transfers are available from terminals 4 and 5). Journey time is
4080 minutes to central London, depending on the traffic. Tickets can be
bought from the Travel Centre (open 6am10.30pm) at Heathrow Central
bus station.
From Gatwick Airport to Central London
www.gatwickairport.com/transport/to-london
By train Gatwick Express
www.gatwickexpress.com
This is the most expensive option into central London but also the quickest.
Trains run every 15 minutes and journey time to Victoria is approximately
30 minutes. Tickets cost 19.90 (or 17.75 if bought online).
Southern Trains to Victoria
Journey time about 35 minutes, trains run every 15 minutes during the day,
with a reduced service throughout the night. Tickets cost approx. 15.
First Capital Connect trains to London Bridge and Kings Cross
Journey time about 3045 minutes, trains run every 15 minutes during the
day, with a reduced service throughout the night. Tickets cost approx. 10.
By bus or coach
National Express and easybus offer cheap and regular services to central
London. Journey time is approx. 85 minutes, with prices starting at as little
as 2 when booking online.
From Stansted Airport to Central London
www.stanstedairport.com/transport-and-directions/stansted-to-central-london
By train Stansted Express
https://www.stanstedexpress.com
Trains run every 15 minutes (or every 30 minutes during the night) and
journey time to London Liverpool Street is approximately 45 minutes.
Tickets are approx. 24.
By coach to Liverpool Street
Journey time is around 55 minutes; this is a cheaper option than the train.
19
Arrival
From Luton Airport to Central London
www.london-luton.co.uk/en/airport
By train First Capital Connect trains to London St Pancras International
Trains run every 10 minutes and journey time to London St Pancras
International is 45 minutes. Tickets are approx. 15.
easybus to Victoria station Services run 24 hours a day and take around
65 minutes. Tickets start at 2. Bus services are also offered by National
Express.
Travel to the School
From Heathrow Airport to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama
and Sundial Court
Either
Use the underground from Heathrow to Moorgate Station
Take the Piccadilly line (dark blue) eastbound and get off at Kings Cross.
Make your way to the Northern Line (black) southbound Bank branch and
go to Moorgate
Or
Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station
Use the underground and take the Hammersmith and City line (pink)
eastbound to Moorgate.
From Gatwick Airport to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama
and Sundial Court
Either
At Gatwick, take a First Capital Connect train to Kings Cross station
At Kings Cross, go to the underground station and make your way to
the Northern Line (black) southbound Bank branch and go to Moorgate
Or
At Gatwick, take a First Capital Connect train to London Bridge station
Arrival
20
21
Arrival
At London Bridge, go to the underground station and make your way
to the Northern Line (black) northbound and go to Moorgate
Or
Take the Gatwick Express to Victoria station
At Victoria, go to the underground station and make your way to the
Victoria line (pale blue) Northbound and go to Kings Cross
At Kings Cross, make your way to the Northern Line (black) southbound
Bank branch and go to Moorgate.
From Stansted Airport to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama
and Sundial Court
Take the Stansted Express to London Liverpool Street station
At London Liverpool Street station, exit the station. From here, it is a
ten minute walk to the School. Please refer to the map on page 42.
From Luton Airport to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and
Sundial Court
Take a First Capital Connect train via London St Pancras International to
Farringdon station
At Farringdon station, it is a 1520 minute walk to the School. As you exit
the station, turn left onto Cowcross Street, and continue along here until
you reach Charterhouse Street. Turn left onto Charterhouse Street and walk
along here until you reach the end of the road. Turn right onto Aldersgate.
You have now reached the Barbican underground station. From this point,
please refer to the map on page 42. If you wish, you can print off a larger
map on www.streetmap.co.uk (search for postcode EC2Y).
Accommodation
By the end of July, you will have received either an offer to live at Sundial
Court Halls of Residence (if you applied by 12 July), or additional information
to help you find alternative accommodation in London. These documents
include: a list of adverts from landlords seeking student tenants; and a list
of new and current Guildhall School students looking to share a flat with
other students. The London Student Housing Guide is available online via the
Prospective Students Resource page.
Arrival
22
If you have not received this information in early August, please contact
the Student Life Officer at accommodation@gsmd.ac.uk or by phone at
+44 (0)20 7382 6132.
You can also contact the Student Life Officer if you have not applied to live
at Sundial Court, and would like to have your name included on the list of
students looking for flat mates or if you require any further guidance in your
search for external accommodation.
Sundial Court Halls of Residence
Before academic term begins
During the summer, rooms at Sundial Court are let out to the general public.
Although rental rates are higher during the summer vacation, there is a special
rate for full-time Guildhall Students which is 25 per night. If you would like
to rent a room at Sundial Court before 14 September, then please contact the
Senior Facilities Administrator at sundial@gsmd.ac.uk or by phone at
+44 (0)20 7382 7192 to check availability.
Moving into Sundial Court
If you have a place at Sundial Court, you must pay your security deposit by
cheque when you return your Student Signatory Form. You should also pay
your first rent instalment by 16 September, or provide proof that you will be
receiving a loan/ bursary that will enable you to pay. In exchange for the keys
to your room, you will be asked to provide a receipt for the payment of the
first term hall fees and deposit or a copy of the Student Support Notification
letter (undergraduate students only). You will receive more details about this in
the Sundial Court Information pack which will be sent to you with your offer.
If you have submitted your photo in advance you can collect your School ID
card on moving in day at Sundial Court. You must have valid ID with you and
have met the above criteria to get your flat keys.
Personal safety in London
Information relating to how to look after your belongings and personal
precautions you should make while out and about are available from the
Student Affairs section of the student intranet. Please contact the Student Life
Officer if you require any further advice on personal safety issues (see useful
contacts section for details).
Immigration and passport controI
Providing you have obtained the appropriate entry clearance and have all
the relevant documentation with you, immigration and passport control
procedures should not be a problem when you arrive in the UK.
If you have any trouble with your entry clearance while travelling to the UK,
please contact Lauren OBrien or Julia Lazarus. You can also contact the UKCISA
helpline for advice: +44 (0)20 7107 9922.
Carry all your immigration documents in your hand luggage along
with important addresses and telephone numbers.
Registration with the police
Some non-EU and non-Commonwealth students admitted to the UK for more
than six months are required to register with the police within seven days of
arrival. The stamp in your passport will tell you whether it is necessary to do this.
A fee (currently 34) is charged for each registration certificate. To register, go
to the registration office at:

The Overseas Visitors Record Office,
Ground Floor, Brandon House,
180 Borough High Street,
London, SE1 1LH,
Tel: +44 (0)20 7230 1208

taking the fee, your passport and any letters from the Home Office. This office
is close to Borough underground station (northern line) and is open Monday
to Friday 09:0016:00. Please be advised there are often long queues and the
office sometimes closes at lunch during busy periods; you can check for early
closures online at www.met.police.uk/overseas_visitors_records_office.
If you change your address, you must notify the nearest police station or the
OVRO within 7 days. If you change your place of study, you must notify the
police (at any police station) or the OVRO within 8 days. Any other changes,
including a change of passport, must be reported to the OVRO within 8 days.
More information can be found online at:
www.met.police.uk/overseas_visitors_records_office
23
Arrival
Enrolment and
start of term
Welcome to the Guildhall School of Music & Drama!
There will be a variety of formal and informal activities to get new students
involved in both the academic and social sides of the School. There will be stalls
in the foyer of the Silk Street building for new and returning students to find
out about services offered by the Library, IT, Student Affairs, and other internal
departments and external organisations. The Students Union will organise
activities and events around the School and Sundial Court. Many will be included
in the programme timetables youll get when you start, and there will be plenty
of people in the foyer of the Silk Street building on the first day to direct you.
For programmes validated by City University, a City University induction session
will take place Wednesday 25 September. The session informs Guildhall School
students about the services available to them at City such as the library, the
Student Advice Centre and the Students Union bar.
To find out more about the City University Induction session, please see page 36.
What do I do on the first day of term?
Each programme will have an individual timetable, however all new students*
should meet for the Principals Introduction in the Music Hall (entrance off the
Silk Street main foyer) at 9:30am on the first day of term (16 September 2013).
*BA & MA Acting students are required to attend a preparatory information session on
Saturday 14th September and will start their full programme of study on the first day
of term. Please refer to specific information from the Assistant Head of Drama
Administration (Admissions).
Once you have completed enrolment in person you will be entitled to receive
a Guildhall School student ID card and City University ID card, use the Schools
facilities, and receive the other advantages of being a student (e.g. Council Tax
exemption and travel discounts if eligible). Enrolment involves completing pre-
enrolment tasks (see Pre-Enrolment section), filling in forms, verifying ID and
qualifications and paying fees. Since each student must be enrolled individually this
may take some time and depends on your individual circumstances.
24
Enrolment and start of term
3
When and where do I enrol?
Music students will need to collect their handbooks and enrol in the foyer
of the Silk Street building. There will be staff available after the introduction
sessions from 10:30 to 16:30 on both the first and second days of term. You
will need to queue up to enrol when you do not have anything else in your
timetable. There is plenty of time to enrol everyone, so if the queues are long
you can come back a bit later.
1 Collect handbooks and enrolment forms from the desk next to the main
entrance.
2 Complete your enrolment forms.
3 If you have fees to pay by cash, cheque or credit card or want to pay in
instalments, go to the Finance Desk.
4 If you have already paid your fees or have a loan, grant or scholarship then
go straight to the Enrolment Desk.
All other students will have a timetabled enrolment session on the first day
of term in one of the teaching rooms. If you are paying your own fees by credit
card/debit card and havent done this in advance, you may be asked to go to
the foyer to pay.
What do I need to bring to enrol?
On the first day of term you will need:
Passport/UK birth certificate/UK photo driving licence/EU identity card
Students with a visa must bring their passport, and Biometric Residence
Permit (if applicable).
Original Education Certificates (with certified English translation if relevant).
(Exam results slip is acceptable for A-levels). Please bring your highest
qualifications only (so if you have a degree you do not need to bring your A-level
certificates). Photocopies are not acceptable
Fee payment, receipt, bank transfer confirmation or Student Support
Notification letter (if unable to send in prior to Enrolment Day) (see p27).
Any other conditions of entry listed on your offer letter e.g. English
Language qualification certificate.
National Insurance number (if you have it).
Address details including postcode.
Black pen.
Enrolment and start of term
25
What happens if I dont have everything?
If you are not able to enrol fully for any reason (e.g. if you do not bring the
necessary documents with you, or have not paid your fees) then you will be
temporarily enrolled. You will not receive any student benefits or any loans,
grants or bursaries you may be expecting. If you still have not fully enrolled
after three weeks, your access to School facilities will be removed. If you
are not fully enrolled after six weeks, you will be excluded.
It is therefore very important that you bring everything listed here.
How do I prove Im a student once Ive enrolled?
When you have enrolled, you will receive a student pack containing:
A student status letter (proving you are a student).
Preprinted ID card. Please remember that you must email your ID photo to
student.idphotos@gsmd.ac.uk before 30 August 2013 (see p16).
A council tax exemption certificate (not applicable to part-time students
or those staying in Sundial Court).
How do I get a Student Travel discount card?
Once youve enrolled, you may be able to apply for a Transport for London
18+ Student photocard to get discounted travel around London (30% off
weekly or longer travelcards). Full-time students of any nationality are eligible
to apply, as are:
part-time students who are in receipt of assistance from the Access to
Learning fund (UK students only; please contact Student Affairs for more
details).
You can apply for your photocard online on the TfL website: www.tfl.gov.uk/
tickets/14312.aspx. You can usually apply from the start of September, so
you can do it from home if you wish, and we will authorise it once you have
enrolled. You will need a digital photo of yourself.
If you wont travel regularly (e.g. if you live in Sundial Court) then the student
Oyster may not be worthwhile. However a standard Oyster will still provide a
discount on cash fares and this is available at all stations.
16+ Oyster Cards are also possible if you are not yet 18. Forms are available at
Post Offices.
Enrolment and start of term
26
What information will be provided?
You will be provided with a lot of written and verbal information at the start of
term about what the School expects of you, and what you can expect from the
School. This includes programme-specific information, regulations and general
information about the Schools services and facilities. Keep all documents
somewhere safe so that you can refer to them in the future. You are advised to
read these documents thoroughly as soon as you can.
All information will be available on the intranet for which you will receive
access instructions.
ID Card
When you receive your ID card you should keep it with you at all times. You
will need it for access, booking rooms and borrowing library books. The School
has an electronic swipe-in attendance monitoring system which requires you to
swipe in every day that you are in School. Further information will be supplied
at the start of term.
Programme Information
The Acting, Music and Technical Theatre departments will each guide you
through the information specific to your programme once you arrive. Each
department has an administrative office which will support you throughout the
programme, so if you have any questions that havent been answered please
do contact them.
Freshers Fair
There will be a Freshers Fair in the Foyer during the first week of term.
Students can expect to see various stalls with information about the Students
Union, banks, sports centres, orchestras, venues, student clubs and societies
and much more.
Student Affairs Welcome Desk
There will be a Welcome Desk at the Freshers Fair staffed by members of
Student Affairs in the foyer of the Silk Street building who will be happy
to answer your questions. Their areas of expertise include Student Life,
International Students, Accommodation, Health, Disabilities, and Counselling.
You will be able to sign up for activities that will be organised throughout the
first few weeks of term by the Student Life Officer. These activities are open to
all students.
27
Enrolment and start of term

International Students Orientation (13 September)
All international students are invited to an Orientation Day on Friday 13
September where you will have the opportunity to meet School staff and
fellow students. A programme of presentations, tours and discussion groups
will provide helpful information about international student life, study skills,
immigration and visas, money management, and health and well-being to
enable you to get the most out of your time in London.
What happens if I am not able to attend?
Staff at the Student Affairs Welcome Desk will greet International Students,
and give them a copy of the International Student AZ Guide to London
2013/14. Please contact the Student Life Officer as soon as possible to arrange
an individual meeting.
Re-enrolment
Tier 4 visa students are required to re-enrol at the start of the Spring and
Summer terms. This will take place in the Registry office.
Enrolment and start of term
28
Fees and funding
The information below should answer all your questions about fees and
funding. You have already been sent an information sheet about how to
apply for funding also available on the Fees and Funding page on our
website. If you are still unsure about anything please contact the Finance
Office for payment information or our Student Funding Officer for funding
information (studentfundingofficer@gsmd.ac.uk).
Tuition fees
The covering letter indicates the amount of tuition fees you will be
charged although this may be covered by a loan or funding award.
If you have a UK student loan
If you are eligible for a loan for tuition fees from the UK government (through
the EU team, Student Finance England/Wales/NI or SAAS) you should already
have applied for this by now if you wish to do so. If you havent done so please
go to www.gov.uk/browse/education/student-finance.
Applications take 810 weeks to process. If you do not receive notification
regarding your loan, please contact your relevant customer service to enquire
about the status of your application. The Student Funding Officer will assist you
if you find you are not able to resolve any issues. Once your loan is confirmed
you will receive a Student Support Notification letter. Please bring this to
enrolment.
If you have a Guildhall School Scholarship
If you have been awarded a scholarship to cover some or all of your tuition fees
from the School we should have automatically credited this to your account.
Bring your letter with you when you enrol.
National Scholarship Programme
If you have been offered a National or School Access Scholarship you will
receive a partial fee waiver (worth 3,000) in year one of your studies. This
will only be confirmed once financial eligibility has been confirmed by Student
Finance England. Please ensure that you have followed the instructions in your
scholarship offer letter.
29
Fees and funding
4
If you (or a relative/friend) are paying all or part of your tuition fees
You can pay your tuition fees on or before the first day of term by one of the
following methods:
Credit/Debit Card: You can pay by Visa, Mastercard, Electron, Switch and
Solo by calling +44 (0)20 7382 7208 before the start of term or at your
enrolment session.
Cheque: Cheques must be drawn on a UK bank and made payable to the
Guildhall School of Music & Drama.
Bank Transfer: You may arrange a direct bank transfer to the Guildhall
Schools account, and we advise you to do so at least a week before the start
of term since it can take a few days to clear. Please ensure the Student Name
and Student Number are clearly stated on any transfer document, and that
you have paid any transaction charges. Bring a copy of the bank transfer
notification to your enrolment session.
The Guildhall Schools bank details are as follows:
Lloyds TSB Bank
Sort Code: 30 00 02
Account Name: Guildhall School of Music & Drama Collection Account
Account Number: 01949360
IBAN (International Bank Account Number): GB38 LOYD 3000 0201 9493 60
BIC Number: LOYDGB2LCTY
Tuition fee instalment plan
If you are paying all or part of your tuition fees yourself, you may pay in three
termly instalments. Please see enclosed Tuition Fee Policy and Instalment form
for how to calculate instalment amounts.
If requested on your offer letter, you should have already paid 15% of the tuition
fees due as a deposit. The remaining balance can be paid in full on the first day
of term or in three instalments of 25%, 30%, 30% of the tuition fee due.
If you dont need to pay a deposit the tuition fees due can be paid in full on
the first day of term or in three instalments of 40%, 30%, 30%.
30
Fees and funding
Maintenance (living costs)
If you are expecting a student loan or grant (UK students):
Your student Maintenance Loan from the UK Government should be
transferred to your account about a week after you fully enrol. It is not issued
until the enrolment process is completed. You must bring your Student Support
Notification letter to enrolment (along with all the other necessary documents)
as this is the only document that proves to the School that your fees will be
paid on your behalf. Funds for your Maintenance Loan will then be released.
If you are expecting a Scholarship for maintenance from the
Guildhall School:
You will be able to collect the first instalment from the Finance Office about a
week after you fully enrol. The remaining two instalments will be available at
the start of the Spring and Summer terms. This will be provided in the form
of a cheque or bank transfer to UK account, so you will need to have a bank
account to pay it in.
31
Fees and funding
32
Life at the
Guildhall School
Student Charter
The Guildhall Schools vision is to be an international centre of excellence
and a global leader of creative and professional practice in music and drama.
The Schools mission is to train and educate musicians, actors and theatre
technicians to the highest international standards; to support creativity,
innovation and risk; to excite and inspire as many people as it can reach.
The Guildhall School is committed to providing an environment that
prepares talented young performers and theatre technicians for careers in
their respective professions by providing high quality learning and teaching,
support and services. A positive student experience is achieved by a shared
commitment between staff and students, and the Charter has been jointly
created by the Schools staff and students to continue enhancing this shared
partnership.
Collective responsibility:
The School values its friendly and welcoming environment. As part of the City
of London, it has a comprehensive equal opportunities policy and encourages
both staff and students to foster an environment free from discrimination,
prejudice or harassment.
The Guildhall School undertakes to provide:
High standards of teaching, support, advice and guidance;
A programme of study that is relevant, student centred, fulfils specified
aims, is fairly and consistently assessed, and structured towards a named
award;
Access to facilities, equipment and accommodation necessary to undertake
a programme of study and that meet health and safety requirements;
Life at the Guildhall School
5
33
Section Description
Access to performance opportunities within the School that will enhance
personal development;
Professional accreditation of programmes (where appropriate);
Approachable access to counselling and advice on: health and welfare,
accommodation, finance etc;
Clearly defined access to library and IT facilities;
Sustained contact with the professions as a fundamental feature of all its
programmes of study, supported by embedded, proactive and discipline-
specific careers guidance;
Formal opportunities and relevant training for student representation at
School and Department boards, committees, sub-groups and working
parties;
Regular continuing professional development for its staff;
Clear timetables of teaching activity in advance and assistance to students
to resolve any complexities arising from unavoidable change or clashes.
The Guildhall School undertakes to provide students with the following
information:
A programme handbook, supplemented by other departmental handbooks,
that details the mode of delivery of the programme, contact hours,
academic support, the examination arrangements and regulations,
assessment criteria, clear deadlines and timeframes for feedback on
submitted work, and professional requirements (where appropriate);
An annual student handbook that provides signposts to the academic
guidance and learning support services available in the School, appeals and
complaints procedures, and School policy and procedures;
Accurate information regarding tuition fees, payment options and deadlines,
and an estimate of necessary additional costs;
Guidance and support in dealing with the Student Loans Company and
other funding agencies.
Life at the Guildhall School
34
Section Description
Each Student undertakes to:
Familiarise him/herself, and comply, with all the Schools policies and
regulations;
Conduct him/herself in a professional manner at all times;
Take advantage of the varied opportunities available by attending induction
sessions, participating in timetabled classes, attending meetings with tutors etc;
Keep informed by a) regularly checking their School e-mail account, b)
reading the student and programme handbooks, and c) reading the monthly
student e-zine and consulting School notice boards and the intranet;
Take responsibility for managing his/her own learning: actively engaging
in the programme; spending sufficient, regular time in private study and
practice, informing the departmental office of timetable clashes, illness,
changes to address or other changes of circumstance;
Follow and attend the approved programme of study as specified for the
year and obtain agreement from the Department, in advance, for any
essential absences;
Attend all scheduled assessment events and submit course work by the
stated deadlines, and actively engage with the resulting feedback;
Assist in improving the quality of programmes by giving full and constructive
feedback on his/her experience via the internal Whole School Survey and the
National Student Survey (undergraduate finalists only), and/or by becoming
a student representative;
Support the student representatives and participate in processes to
nominate or elect student representatives and ensure that representatives
are made aware of student views and the issues that they should raise on
behalf of the student body;
Talk to a member of staff if he/she is experiencing problems;
Inform the School at the earliest opportunity of any disabilities in order to
access appropriate support;
Life at the Guildhall School
35
Section Description
Respect the physical environment of the institution, including
accommodation and respect the rights, privacy and property of others;
Take responsibility for the prompt and timely payment of tuition fees and
other charges made by the School and plan his/her finances, making use of
the resources provided by the Student Funding Officer and Student Affairs.
The Students Union undertakes to:
Support all students to ensure they receive equal access to services and
support and are aware of their rights and responsibilities;
Support active student/community engagement, including student
participation in quality enhancement activities especially through the
election, development and training of student representatives;
Foster cross-School co-operation and help maintain the Schools
interdisciplinary/collaborative ethos;
Represent the interests of students at the local and national level.
The student charter does not constitute a legal document and is not a legally
binding contract. It is not intended either to define or limit the legal rights
and responsibilities of the Guildhall School, the Students Union and each
student. The charter is intended to act as a signpost to key information
which is likely to be relevant to students and help to establish consistent
expectations across the School.
If you have any queries about this charter please contact the Students Union
President or the Head of Registry Services.
Life at the Guildhall School
36
Section Description
Student handbook
At the beginning of the academic year, all students will receive the Guildhall
School of Music & Drama Student Handbook 2013/2014. This document
provides an easy reference guide to help you find your way around the Schools
services, facilities, current policies and regulations.
Student Communication
Email
All students will be issued with a student email account once enrolled. This will
be the primary method of communication between students and the School
and should be activated as soon as possible.
Failure to check a School email account regularly will not be accepted as a
reason for failing to observe an instruction sent by email.
If you are considering buying a smart phone, you will be able to access
your School email on it if you choose one that is Microsoft Active Sync or
Microsoft Email compatible. Please see http://tinyurl.com/3hmlgel for further
information.
Ezine
The Student Ezine is a monthly newsletter that is emailed to all students to
keep you informed about School news and upcoming events, and to provide
advice on topics ranging from accommodation to study skills to healthy living.
There are usually some great competitions and giveaways too! Remember to
check your School email account on the 15th of every month.
If you would like to contribute an article on any aspect of student life
whether that be a review of a School performance/ production, news of recent
successes, or tips for stretching your student loan as far as possible we
want to hear from you! Please contact student.ezine@gsmd.ac.uk for more
information.
Student smart phone app
guildhallschool.mobi gives students access to the complete library catalogue,
ASIMUT, eGo, maps, news and events
Information sessions and workshops
Student Affairs will offer a series of awareness-raising events and workshops
throughout the year to provide students with ongoing information and support
to help you make the most of your time at the School.
Life at the Guildhall School
37
Section Description
Weekly Roadshow
Every Tuesday lunchtime, members of the Student Affairs team will be in the
foyer, providing information about a different aspect of student life each week.
Stop by to collect useful resources or ask for advice.
Money Mentors
The Money Mentoring scheme aims to provide advice and information on good
money management. The scheme provides advice and information through
workshops and various printed resources, including handbooks and factsheets
(available on the School intranet via the Student Funding Information page).
Workshops and awareness-raising events will be held throughout the academic
year, and all students are welcome to attend.
The Money Mentors will be available on Friday lunchtime of week 1 in the
foyer of the Silk Street building to answer questions about budgeting and will
have a range of information available for students to take away.
Getting involved
Enjoy the Students Union Freshers Week activities
The Students Union organises a wide range of activities for the first week of
term. Taking part is a great way to meet new people, settle in to the School and
have fun. The Union offers a Freshers Pass which will grant you entry to all of the
events at a discounted rate. Visit www.gsmdsu.com or e-mail union@gsmd.ac.uk
for more information.
Sign up for a tour of the local area and City University
Students of the Guildhall School of Music & Drama have access to many of the
facilities at City University. Come and find out more. You can sign up for the tour
on Wednesday 25 September by contacting the Student Life Officer at
studentlife@gsmd.ac.uk or by phone at +44 (0)20 7382 6132.
Join a student club or society
Student societies include the Christian Union, LBGT + Society, and Tea Party
Society you can find information about these societies and how to join at the
Freshers Fair. And if there is not a society for your particular interest whether
that be sports, religion, politics, knitting, cooking, board games there are
likely to be other students at the School who share the same interest, so why
not start your own society.
Life at the Guildhall School
38
Section Description
If you are interested in starting a student club or society, please contact the
Students Union President, Ieuan Davies, at union@gsmd.ac.uk or by phone
+44 (0)20 7628 2571 ext.7961. You can also contact the Student Life Officer
using the contact details above.
Volunteer to help organise special events
An important and very rewarding part of the student experience is getting
involved in extracurricular activities - for example helping out at special events
like the SU Winter Festival, or coming up with ideas for new events that arent
already offered whether thats a food festival, charity drive or daytrip. If you
are interested in helping to coordinate these types of events, please contact
either the Student Life Officer or the Students Union President using the
contact details above.
Sustainability
The School and the Students Union are committed to promoting and
rewarding sustainable and environmentally friendly behaviour. The Sustainability
Steering Group is open to all interested staff and students, and meets twice a
term to review progress and initiate new projects students can get involved
in a range of ways, from helping to organize an annual Go Green Week, to
signing up for an allotment on the Schools rooftop garden!
Life at the Guildhall School
39
Section Description
Further information
There are many useful websites, discussion forums, blogs, newspaper
articles and books which give advice about becoming a student:
https://resources.gsmd.ac.uk/New_students/newstudents2013.html
The Guildhall School resource page for prospective students.
www.gsmd.ac.uk The Guildhall School of Music & Drama website. Check out
the funding advice downloads at the left-hand side of the Fees and Funding
page (in About the School).
www.facebook.com (Guildhall School of Music & Drama) and
http://twitter.com/guildhallschool Become part of the Schools online
community by following us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest School news
and updates on upcoming performances.
www.gsmdsu.com The Guildhall Schools Students Union website
and to find out about Freshers events and to get in touch with other students,
check the GSMD SU Facebook group.
www.city.ac.uk City Universitys website.
www.nus.org.uk National Union of Students official website.
www.gov.uk Government website (Click on Education and Learning for
student finance information).
www.drama.ac.uk provides a unique link between the theatre, media and
broadcast industries and drama training providers in the UK.
www.tfl.gov.uk London travel information.
We strongly recommend www.ukcisa.org.uk for international students. It is an
excellent resource for anything from visa issues to advice about the British weather!
www.EducationUK.org has a lot of useful information about living and
studying in the UK.
www.prepareforsuccess.org.uk is an interactive web learning tool for
international students.
www.ish.org.uk International Student House runs activities and provides
accommodation for international students.
www.oanda.com/currency/converter/ Free online currency converter.
Term Dates 2013/14
Autumn Monday 16 September Friday 6 December 2013
Spring Monday 13 January Friday 24 April 2014
Summer Monday 27 April Friday 18 July 2014
Further Information
6
40
Useful contacts summer period
Useful contacts
summer period
If you have a query over the summer and the named contact is away,
please call +44 (0)20 7382 7181 and we will find someone to help.
The Music Office Ed Siebert
Room: G2 & G4, East Wing, Silk Street Building
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 6128
E-mail: music@gsmd.ac.uk
The Drama Office (Acting & Technical Theatre)
Room: Drama Administration Office, Milton Court
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 2323
E-mail: drama@gsmd.ac.uk
Students Union President Ieuan Davies (2013-2014)
Tel: +44 (0)20 7628 2571 ext. 7961
Email: union@gsmd.ac.uk
Website: www.gsmdsu.com
Facebook Group: GSMD SU
The Library
General Enquiries: +44 (0)20 7382 5280
E-mail: library@gsmd.ac.uk
Finance Office
Room: Level 2 Barbican Offices
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 7208
Email: Finance@gsmd.ac.uk
Opening Times: 09.3016.30 (MonFri)

7
Section Description Useful contacts summer period
Student Affairs
General enquiries Lesley Secker
Room: Sundial Court
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 7219
E-mail: student.affairs@gsmd.ac.uk
Student Life Officer Julia Lazarus
Room: Sundial Court
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 6132
E-mail: julia.lazarus@gsmd.ac.uk
Registry (general enrolment enquiries and student funding)
Room: Level 2 Barbican Offices
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 7181 or +44 (0)20 7382 7183
Email: registry@gsmd.ac.uk
studentfundingofficer@gsmd.ac.uk
Opening Times: 09.3017.00 (MonFri)
Sundial Court address
Sundial Court Hall of Residence
Opening Times: 09.3017.00 (MonFri)
38-42 Chiswell Street, London EC1Y 4SB
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 7163
For general enquiries about Sundial Court, please contact
the Facilities office in the Silk Street building.
Room: Silk Street Building
Tel: +44 (0)20 7382 7192
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
42
Notes
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
43
Notes
44
Brick Lane
Tower of London
A
n
g
e
l
K
i
n
g
s

C
r
o
s
s
Holborn
T
a
t
e

M
o
d
e
r
n
B
o
r
o
u
g
h
M
a
r
k
e
t
Liverpool Street
Hoxton
Shoreditch
High Street
Bank
Mansion
House
Angel
Farringdon
Barbican
St Pauls
Old Street
Moorgate
Aldgate
Aldgate East
London Blackfriars
Monument
Tower Hill
SILK ST
CHISW
ELL ST
M
O
O
R
G
A
T
E
L
IV
E
R
P
O
O
L
S
T
B
I
S
H
O
P
S
G
A
T
E
THREADNEEDLE ST
M
O
O
R

L
A
N
E
O
L
D

B
R
O
A
D

S
T
LONDON WALL
BEECH
STREET
A
L
D
E
R
S
G
A
T
E

S
T
LO
N
D
O
N
W
A
LL
B
E
V
IS
M
A
R
K
S
C
I
T
Y

R
O
A
D
S
H
O
R
E
D
I
T
C
H








G
R
E
A
T

E
A
S
T
E
R
N

S
T
C
O
M
M
E
R
C
I
A
L

S
T
B
R
I
C
K

L
A
N
E
W
H
IT
E
C
H
A
P
E
L
R
O
A
D
B
E
T
H
N
A
L
G
R
E
E
N
R
O
A
D
S
H
O
R
E
D
I
T
C
H

H
I
G
H

S
T
O
LD
STREET
O
LD
STREET
C
IT
Y
R
O
A
D
B
U
N
H
I
L
L

R
O
W
W
H
I
T
E
C
R
O
S
S
S
T
B
A
T
H

S
T
R
E
E
T
G
O
S
W
E
L
L

R
O
A
D
S
t

J
O
H
N

S
T
R
E
E
T
CLERKENW
ELL RO
AD
F
A
R
R
I
N
G
D
O
N

R
O
A
D
K
I
N
G

S

C
R
O
S
S

R
O
A
D
S
M
IT
H
F
IE
L
D


L
O
N
G
L
A
N
E
H
O
L
B
O
R
N
V
IA
D
U
C
T

N
E
W
G
A
T
E
S
T
N
E
W

B
R
I
D
G
E

S
T
R
E
E
T
UPPER THAMES STREET
L
O
N
D
O
N

B
R
I
D
G
E
S
O
U
T
H
W
A
R
K

B
R
I
D
G
E
B
L
A
C
K
F
R
I
A
R
S

B
R
I
D
G
E
T
O
W
E
R

B
R
I
D
G
E
C
H
EA
PSID
E
LUDGATE HILL
C
A
N
N
O
N
STR
EET
P
R
I
N
C
E

S

S
T















K
I
N
G

W
I
L
L
I
A
M

S
T
G
R
A
C
E
C
H
U
R
C
H

S
T
FLEET STREET
K
I
N
G
S
L
A
N
D

R
O
A
D
H
A
C
K
N
E
Y

R
D
O
S
B
O
R
N

S
T
R
E
E
T
H
O
U
N
D
S
D
IT
C
H
F
IN
SBURY
C
IR
C
U
S
QUEEN VICTORIA STREET
QUEEN VICTORIA STREET
N
E
W

C
H
A
N
G
E
One New
Change
City Thameslink
2
4
5
1
3
A
B
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
C
T H A M E S
Guildhall School Buildings
1
2
3
4
5
Guildhall School: Silk Street
Guildhall School: Milton Court
Barbican (Registry, Finance & HR)
Sundial Court Hall of Residence
John Trundle Court
Places of Interest
A Barbican Centre
B LSO St Lukes
C The Gherkin
D St Pauls Cathedral
E The Guildhall
F Shoreditch
G Hoxton Square
H Spitalelds Market
I Whitecross St Market
J
Museum of London
Bank Supermarket
Shopping Cinema
Underground Mainline Rail
N
How to find us
The Guildhall School is located in the heart of
the City of London, in the midst of an exciting
cultural hub which includes the Barbican
Centre, LSO St Lukes and the Museum of
London. The School is within close reach of
many popular London destinations, including
St Pauls Cathedral, markets at Whitecross
Street, Spitalfields and Brick Lane, One
New Change shopping centre, and shops,
restaurants and bars in Shoreditch and Hoxton.
The Schools main entrance is at the Silk
Street building the closest tube stations
are Moorgate and Barbican.
Section Description
Brick Lane
Tower of London
A
n
g
e
l
K
i
n
g
s

C
r
o
s
s
Holborn
T
a
t
e

M
o
d
e
r
n
B
o
r
o
u
g
h
M
a
r
k
e
t
Liverpool Street
Hoxton
Shoreditch
High Street
Bank
Mansion
House
Angel
Farringdon
Barbican
St Pauls
Old Street
Moorgate
Aldgate
Aldgate East
London Blackfriars
Monument
Tower Hill
SILK ST
CHISW
ELL ST
M
O
O
R
G
A
T
E
L
IV
E
R
P
O
O
L
S
T
B
I
S
H
O
P
S
G
A
T
E
THREADNEEDLE ST
M
O
O
R

L
A
N
E
O
L
D

B
R
O
A
D

S
T
LONDON WALL
BEECH
STREET
A
L
D
E
R
S
G
A
T
E

S
T
LO
N
D
O
N
W
A
LL
B
E
V
IS
M
A
R
K
S
C
I
T
Y

R
O
A
D
S
H
O
R
E
D
I
T
C
H








G
R
E
A
T

E
A
S
T
E
R
N

S
T
C
O
M
M
E
R
C
I
A
L

S
T
B
R
I
C
K

L
A
N
E
W
H
IT
E
C
H
A
P
E
L
R
O
A
D
B
E
T
H
N
A
L
G
R
E
E
N
R
O
A
D
S
H
O
R
E
D
I
T
C
H

H
I
G
H

S
T
O
LD
STREET
O
LD
STREET
C
IT
Y
R
O
A
D
B
U
N
H
I
L
L

R
O
W
W
H
I
T
E
C
R
O
S
S
S
T
B
A
T
H

S
T
R
E
E
T
G
O
S
W
E
L
L

R
O
A
D
S
t

J
O
H
N

S
T
R
E
E
T
CLERKENW
ELL RO
AD
F
A
R
R
I
N
G
D
O
N

R
O
A
D
K
I
N
G

S

C
R
O
S
S

R
O
A
D
S
M
IT
H
F
IE
L
D


L
O
N
G
L
A
N
E
H
O
L
B
O
R
N
V
IA
D
U
C
T

N
E
W
G
A
T
E
S
T
N
E
W

B
R
I
D
G
E

S
T
R
E
E
T
UPPER THAMES STREET
L
O
N
D
O
N

B
R
I
D
G
E
S
O
U
T
H
W
A
R
K

B
R
I
D
G
E
B
L
A
C
K
F
R
I
A
R
S

B
R
I
D
G
E
T
O
W
E
R

B
R
I
D
G
E
C
H
EA
PSID
E
LUDGATE HILL
C
A
N
N
O
N
STR
EET
P
R
I
N
C
E

S

S
T















K
I
N
G

W
I
L
L
I
A
M

S
T
G
R
A
C
E
C
H
U
R
C
H

S
T
FLEET STREET
K
I
N
G
S
L
A
N
D

R
O
A
D
H
A
C
K
N
E
Y

R
D
O
S
B
O
R
N

S
T
R
E
E
T
H
O
U
N
D
S
D
IT
C
H
F
IN
SBURY
C
IR
C
U
S
QUEEN VICTORIA STREET
QUEEN VICTORIA STREET
N
E
W

C
H
A
N
G
E
One New
Change
City Thameslink
2
4
5
1
3
A
B
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
C
T H A M E S
Cromwell Tower, Silk Street
Barbican, London EC2Y 8DD
+44 (0)20 7588 9242
10% student discount on most sheet music, books and CDs
20% student discount on sets of strings (e.g. violin, viola,
cello, double bass) and 20% student discount on 5 or more
sets of guitar strings
Download service (fully licenced and legal) for a large catalogue
of music that was available as single sheets
Monday Friday: 9.00am5.30pm
Saturday: 9.00am5pm
(4pm during the holidays please telephone if you are unsure!)
46
Section Description
Guildhall School of Music & Drama
Silk Street, Barbican, London EC2Y 8DT
tel: +44 (0)20 7628 2571
fax: +44 (0)20 7256 9438
www.gsmd.ac.uk
The Guildhall School is provided by the City of London as
part of its contribution to the cultural life of the nation