If you are currently studying at WE Bridge Academy, this is the place to find all the information you need to make the very best of your journey with us.
// Get Connected. You’ll Need A SIM!
One of the first things you will want to do when arriving in the UK is to call your family and let them know you arrived safely. Providing your phone is unlocked, you can pick up a free SIM at the Academy or from most shops. The 4 main providers in the UK are Three, O2, EE and Vodafone.
// Your First Day
Your first day at the Academy will be a little different from a typical day in the classroom. The morning will consist of taking your placement test, completing online registration and taking part in an induction, which we give to all new students.
On your first day, please arrive at 09:00 and go to Reception on floor 10. Remember to bring your original passport with you along with any visas you may have, including your Bio Residence Permit (BRP) card if you have one.
// Finding Your Way Around
We have eight classrooms on floor 10 and four on floor 2. During your induction, we will give you a tour of our premises and show you where your lessons will take place.
We have a spacious student lounge where you can enjoy a freshly ground coffee, catch up with your new friends and see the stunning views of Cardiff from the 10th floor. The student lounge also boasts a Quiet Room where you can relax or work on those all-important assignments.
The student lounge also has a water cooler, dispensing fresh water. We’re helping to save the planet so no longer provide plastic cups – however, you can purchase a reusable water bottle for £3 from Reception on floor 10.
// Your First Week
Once you have settled in, we will give you your student ID card and any letters you need (for things like opening a new bank account and registering with a doctor).
As a student, you can use your student ID card to get great discounts in the United Kingdom. Most shops, restaurants, gyms and cinemas will give you at least 10% off.
// Fire Alarm Test
The building’s fire alarm is tested every Wednesday at 3pm (for around 10 seconds). If you hear the alarm at any other time, it’s time to leave!
// Holidays and Breaks During a Course
All holiday requests must be authorised by the Academic Centre Manager and you will need to obtain a holiday letter by requesting one here. If you are a sponsored student, your Embassy will also need to approve your holiday. If there is a break in your course for any reason, you must report to Reception on floor 2 on your return to the academy as we will need to see your passport and visas before you go back into the classroom.
WE Bridge Academy is closed to students for a 2-week period during the Christmas holiday. However, apart from Bank Holidays, there will still be team available to answer any questions you may have.
// Letters and Documentation
Reception on floor 10 can provide you with any letters and documents you may need. You can make a request online or at Reception.
- Council Tax (for courses lasting more than 6 months and 25 hours per week)
- Bank letter to open a UK bank account
- Doctors letter
- Course confirmation
- Offer and visa letters
- Holiday letter
Please ask at Reception if you require any other type of documentation.
// Life Outside of the Academy
There is always something going on at WE Bridge Academy. We run a great social programme and you can view all our upcoming trips and events here.
If you feel like exploring Cardiff and the surrounding area on your own, or with a group of friends, you will find so much going on and this site will give you lots of ideas to keep you entertained!
// Filming and Photography
We respect the privacy of our students, staff and visitors. We sometimes film and take photos to use across social media, in marketing and on our website. We will always gain your verbal permission before filming and to use your image in this way. We respectfully ask that any students wishing to film in the classroom obtain permission from the teacher first.