Engage Guide to:
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Arriving in the UK
Your teaching career in the UK is about to begin, so in order to become more familiar with your new country, we’ve put together this handy guide to help you settle in upon your arrival.
This short document will provide you with information such as: setting up your mobile phone, finding accommodation, getting around and using UK financial services. You should have already received your ‘Relocation Pack’, information on Umbrella Companies, and some general information on the UK curriculum, if you haven’t yet received these documents, please contact your Engage Consultant at the earliest opportunity.
Contents
Mobile Phone . . . 4
Accommodation . . . 6
Utilities . . . 9
Location: Living in London. . . 11
Getting around: London . . . .17
Banks . . . 20
National Insurance Numbers . . . 22
Umbrella Companies . . . 23
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Mobile Phone
If your phone or smartphone is unlocked prior to your arrival, you will be able to install a UK SIM card and use your phone right away.
You have the choice of either a contract or pay as you go SIM card. However, the best value can often be found on SIM-only plans, these are generally available on month-to-month contracts, and come with packages designed for texts, minutes and data usage.
If your phone is not unlocked, your existing mobile phone network will be able to provide this service for you, normally for a small fee.
The main network providers in the UK are: Vodafone, EE, 02 and Three (3). Mobile coverage and data coverage across the UK can be checked on each of these network’s respective websites, and is helpful in deciding upon which provider to go with,
alongside the available pricing plans. For the short term it may also be useful to have an international SIM in order to remain in touch with family and friends at home.
Mobile phone companies such as Lebara, Lyca and GoSim will offer low cost SIM cards for international calls, however for smartphone/tablet users, services such as Whatsapp, Skype, Viber and various other applications can be used to access free or low-cost international video calls and messaging via WiFi.
It’s worth bearing in mind that it is important you are contactable, so we are able to assist and support you in regards to your accommodation and school.
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Accommodation
We understand that finding suitable accommodation when you first arrive in a new country can be a daunting prospect, however when you break the process of finding accommodation down into these 4 simple stages, it should seem less intimidating:
1. Stay with a friend/relative or book a hotel/hostel
2. Make calls/emails/book viewings
3. Visit properties
The above stages depend upon your circumstances before you come over to the UK. If you have the option to stay with relatives or friends, this will likely be the most convenient course of action whilst you are house hunting. However, if you are in need of a hotel or hostel for your initial period of stay, the following websites may be useful:
Hostels:
Youth Hostel Association UK Hostels Hostel Bookers Hostel World Hotels: Booking.com Expedia Lastminute Laterooms Travelodge
London is a fast moving city and this is reflected in the property market. Desirable accommodation can be added and then removed from the property market in a matter of hours once a buyer is found. This makes finding and renting, or buying, a property very difficult to do until you’re in London itself.
Websites such as Spareroom and Gumtree are great for both finding properties and for finding potential housemates or rooms to rent in shared properties. If you are looking to find somewhere to rent on your own or with a friend, then Zoopla and Rightmove would be more suitable.
For more comprehensive information about renting privately in the UK, please refer to the following online guide from Rightmove
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The following websites may be useful for finding a new home: Spare Room Finder Websites:
Spare Room
UK Easy Roommate Houseshare
Gumtree
Property Search Websites: Rightmove
Zoopla Foxtons
Prime Location Savills
Utilities
When moving into your new home, it is important to be aware of the commitments you will likely be making in terms of bill payments. This includes: Council Tax, Utilities and Home/Contents Insurance.
Tenancy Deposit
It is common for all new rental tenancies to require a damage deposit, to ensure that any damage caused to the property throughout your tenancy is covered. This damage deposit is often also taken as the tenancy deposit, in order to ensure that you are going to be moving into the property, as per your initial agreement. This deposit is refundable when you finish your agreed contract and move out of the property, providing the property is still in the same condition as when you originally moved in.
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Utilities
Most homes in the UK will have water, electricity and gas as standard. However the energy provider you go with will have a bearing on the amount you pay. To ensure you are receiving the best deal, it’s useful to try out price comparison sites such as money saving expert.
There is also the option to receive a metered water reading or an estimated bill, based on past usage. Your energy provider will be able to inform you which is the best option for your property and if this is something worthwhile doing.
Contents Insurance
When renting, especially in shared accommodation, it is recommended to protect your household items with contents insurance, from fire, theft and damage. This can normally be done with your bank, otherwise price comparison sites such as confused.com will offer you the best prices based on the information you provide.
Location: Living in London
‘Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life;
for there is in London all that life can afford.’
Sir Samuel Johnson
Choosing a Location
Generally London is divided up by Central, North, South, East and West London. Each of which has its’ own history, culture and nightlife.
You may want to choose a location to live in which is near to your new school, however you may also decide that there is a part of London you like the look of, and would rather commute from.
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Here is a brief overview of these areas of London: Central London
While many take Central London to be anything found within the confines of the Circle Line, the official make-up comprises of the City of London, most of Westminster, and the inner parts of Camden, Islington, Hackney, Tower Hamlets, Southwark, Lambeth and Kensington and Chelsea.
Central London is home to many of London’s most famous landmarks, tourist attractions, and locations. Unfortunately, the cost of living in the city centre are fairly prohibitive, and therefore housing and rental prices are likely to reflect this. In terms of getting value for money, flat-shares or rooms to rent are likely to be more affordable in the areas situated away from the River Thames.
The advantages of living in Central London, however, are clear. There are many activities to keep you entertained whilst living there, some of the more famous attractions will charge you an admission fee, such as The London Eye, Madame Tussauds and the Tower of London. However there is plenty to see and do on a budget, such as the National Gallery and British Museum. Alternatively, you can check out the many parks, palaces and monuments scattered across the city centre. In terms of nightlife and areas to go out, Soho is a very popular part of town for an after work drink, as well as Covent Garden with its trendy bars and street performers. The South Bank also has a wide variety of restaurants and bars to enjoy, and is particularly popular on the weekends. For the fashion aficionados, Oxford Circus offers a huge range of high-street fashion and shops, with nearby Mayfair offering a variety of high-end boutiques and bespoke fashion retailers. No matter what part of London you live in, be sure to explore the centre of the city whenever you have the opportunity.
North London
North London is one of the more traditional areas of London to live and commute into the city from, ideal for anyone working with a central London school who wants to live a close
tube or bus ride away. Served by a number of London underground lines, including the Northern, Victoria and Piccadilly lines.
Some of the most popular areas to live in north London include Finchley, Hampstead, Camden and Highbury and Islington. Each of these areas offer easy access to the centre of town, along vibrant local culture, cuisine and nightlife.
Camden, famed for its Camden Lock Market, the Camden Stables and its
bohemian subculture. Popular with Londoners and sightseers in equal measure, with a range of bars and venues, which are often frequented by British popstars, rockstars and celebrities. Notoriously a vibrant and fun part of town in which to live, Camden has a reputation for being an excellent place to enjoy good food, with a superb range of cultural cuisines.
One of London’s most popular open spaces, away from the urban city centre is Hampstead Heath, a large and ancient park which is enjoyed by local visitors throughout the year. As one of London’s highest points it also provides an excellent view out across the expanse of the city.
East London
East London is situated near to both the financial heart of the city as well as the bohemian areas of Shoreditch, Hoxton, and Dalston – some of the best parts of town for nightlife and culture.
East London has a large number of tube lines and bus routes taking commuters in and out of the financial district. Mile End is one of the best-connected stations in London, with access to the Central, Hammersmith and City, and District Lines. It is
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reached by every other, with only one change. Much of Docklands was historically poorly connected to the rest of London, with the development of the Docklands Light Rail
(DLR) and the extension of the Jubilee underground line, transportation has become much easier and more efficient.
East London is well known for its markets, featuring a wealth of different locations. Petticoat Lane, Spitalfields, Brick Lane and Columbia Road Flower Market are all located in East London and have adapted with the areas ever-changing diversity. New markets are opening en-route all the time, but real surprises are most likely to be found around the north Brick Lane/Cheshire Street area, which most resembles the spirit of the original London markets.
South London
South London is generally regarded as any of the city that lies south of the River Thames. This has undergone extensive urban regeneration over the past few decades, and is now one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse parts of London to live in.
The London underground network is less developed the further south you go from the river. However, there is a more than adequate overground rail and bus network allowing for good transport links into the centre of town. Some of the more popular, and increasingly bohemian places to live are: Peckham, Denmark Hill and Brixton, which all offer excellent local nightlife, high street shops and eateries.
Some of the other popular locations in south London include Southwark and Lambeth, situated on the Jubilee and
Bakerloo lines respectively. These are more central parts of South London, and therefore still retain the feel of the city centre, with Southwark in particular adorned with high-rise buildings, and office space. Southwark also boasts excellent transport links, with Waterloo and London
Street Sign for ‘Brick Lane’ in English and Arabic: Shoreditch
Umbrellas in Vinopolis Piazza: Borough Market
Bridge stations close by and plenty of London underground access to the West End, Covent Garden and other popular locations.
For places to visit in south London, there is an abundance of cafes and bars hidden away amongst the city streets. However one of the best attractions is to be found in the most famous of the city’s open-air food markets, make a pilgrimage to ‘Borough Market’ for an exhilarating, sometimes overwhelming, experience of the best of edible London.
Open Thursday to Saturday, get there early to avoid the worst of the crowds. Navigate queues of both locals and visitors for cheeses, organic
meat, weird and wonderful fruit and vegetables and artisan breads. Many traders offer free samples so you can try before you buy.
West London
West London stretches out from Notting Hill and Kensington all the way to Heathrow International Airport, Wimbledon, and to the borders of the Home Counties.
Despite west London being synonymous with the more well-to-do areas of Chelsea and
Kensington, there are also many affordable and great places to live as you venture out from the heart of the capital. Ealing, for example, has proven to be a popular area with a number of Australian, Irish and Canadian teachers that have come to the UK with Engage. It has a number of available rentals at
competitive prices, alongside excellent transport links via road and rail.
West London is generally well connected wherever you are, with the District, Piccadilly, Central and Metropolitan lines providing links into central London, as well as local bus routes and road networks taking you both into and out of town. This makes exploring the rest of the UK from west London relatively easy, as well as the local attractions such as the British, Natural History and Victoria and Albert Museums, the Royal Albert Hall, and Kensington Palace.
The Royal Albert Hall: Kensington
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skyline. Clubs such as the Notting Hill Arts Club and Loft Studios in Kensal Green, give a bohemian and more cultured experience of west London nightlife. There are also beautiful riverside walks along the River Thames to be had in Hammersmith and Fulham, with plenty pubs and restaurants to sate even the most ardent food and drink lovers’ appetite.
Keeping safe around London
Although London is usually safe, it is also a very busy city, therefore we’ve put together a few general tips to help you look out for your own safety at all times.
When walking around the city make sure that you are always aware of your surroundings, and always walk on well-lit roads. Where possible, especially at night, do not walk alone
Do not carry large amounts of money as you may be a target for pickpockets Do not look lost - plan your journeys and know where you are going before
you head out
To prevent your drink being spiked, do not leave your drinks in a pub or club unattended
When using a cash machine, make sure that no one is standing too close who may be able to see your PIN number.
The view from the Heath: Hampstead
Getting around: London
London is one of the world’s major cities and therefore has a complex and well maintained transport network. We’ve put together some key information in order to help you navigate the city and understand the many different ways in which you can travel.
London travel guide: Oyster cards
An Oyster card will allow you to travel through London’s underground, overground and bus network using a contactless payment card. These can be purchased online or at a train station ticket office.
Oyster cards work on either a pay-as-you-go, auto-top up or season ticket basis. They can be topped up at a London underground or overground station using the self-service ticket machines, and can also be topped up online via the Transport
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Fares are significantly cheaper when using an Oyster Card, rather than paying with cash for a single destination or return ticket. Additionally, no matter how much you travel in one day using your Oyster, the cost will be capped at the price of a day travelcard.
London travel guide: underground
Zones - TFL have split the city up into nine different zones. Zone 1 covers the very centre of London, Zone 2 the areas slightly further out, and so on until you get out to Zone 9. The large majority of what most people regard as London is covered by Zones 1 to 4.
Travelling between zones that are close to each other is cheaper than travelling between a number of zones. For example, a single journey on the tube from Zones 1 to 2 would be significantly cheaper than a journey from Zones 1 to 6.
Map - The important thing to remember about the tube map is that it is not
geographically accurate or to scale. Two stations that look close to each other on the map aren’t necessarily within walking distance of each other.
If you’re looking to travel to London it might be a good idea to familiarise yourself with the tube map beforehand, so you can work out exactly where you need to go and what zones you will be travelling through, to ensure you will not be spending in excess of your budget. A very useful website which even experienced Londoners use to get around is: ‘Citymapper’, this also comes as a smartphone app, and is very handy in planning your journey via tube, rail, bus or on foot. The app gives you alternative routes, real time transport updates, and estimated journey times, and is therefore highly recommended for any teachers commuting to and from their school.
Weekend closures - Weekend line closures are one of the more infuriating aspects of the underground. In order to maintain the tracks and trains, TFL will occasionally close parts of certain lines or entire stations at weekends. For this reason it’s
important to look out for track closures in advance by visiting the TFL website, so you can adjust your plans accordingly.
London travel guide: Buses
Unlike the underground there isn’t a map that can explain exactly how to get from A to B in London on the bus - as a result, many people prefer the tube. However, if you do your research you could end up saving time and, more importantly, money by sticking to the bus. Learning your local routes can be incredibly useful, in particular for travelling at night, when the tube closes after midnight.
London travel guide: Trains
Despite the fact that overground trains are not run
by TFL, if your train journey starts and ends within Zones
1 to 9 you can use your travelcard or Oyster rather than paying for a separate ticket - a great time saver if you’re in a rush.
London travel guide: River/Trams
Besides tubes, trains and buses, TFL are also responsible for the river bus and tram services. These are only available in limited areas, but can be a great way of getting to work in the mornings. As with everything else, these
services can be paid for using your Oyster.
London travel guide: Cycling
Cycling in London is now easier than ever before thanks to a cycle hire scheme, which allows you to hire bikes from all over the capital.
You can become a member to get the most cost-effective access, but if you’re just going to use it from time to time you’re probably better just paying on the
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Banks
Most UK banks will not allow you to open an account until you are in the UK and have a UK residential address.
Some of the top UK high street banks include: HSBC, Natwest, Lloyds, TSB, Santander, Nationwide, Halifax and RBS.
Required information to set your account up
Passport and Visa (if required)
A letter from Engage or Umbrella Company confirming your UK address. Or A document such as a tenancy agreement or utility bill.
From here a bank card will be sent and received within a few days.
It might be useful to go with a bank that has a branch local to your home or work address, however if you are more concerned about the rates and benefits you’re able to receive with your current account; check out money saving expert’s guide to UK bank accounts.
For more information about setting up your bank account, please refer to the JSA PowerPoint.
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National Insurance Numbers
There is a common misconception regarding your National Insurance (NI) number. Ultimately, gaining your NI will make no difference to your pay.
Once you receive a NI number you will have access to the following: Free GP healthcare
NHS dental care
Your paid tax can be looked at, at the end of the financial year to
determine if you have underpaid or overpaid, from here a rebate could be provided.
There are two ways to apply for a NI number once you are in the UK: Contacting the jobcentre Plus by phone – 0845 604 3719 Visit your local centre.
Umbrella Companies
Through working for an umbrella company, this means that you become an
employee of this umbrella company. As your employer, they will then handle all the administration associated with your contract, including your pay.
They will process your timesheets and expense claim forms. They will invoice your agency or client to co-ordinate the collection of funds.
They calculate your net salary, after deducting your Income Tax and National Insurance contributions, and pay your net salary directly into your personal bank account. They pay your Income Tax and National Insurance contributions directly to HMRC.
They also offer a range of services for teachers including: Professional tax advice
Regular reminders to ensure that you never miss important deadlines Weekly alerts regarding your pay.
These factors mean that it can be much easier for our teachers to work directly with an umbrella company. If you contact your Engage Consultant they can provide you with more information regarding umbrella companies.
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Emergency Services
For the emergency services in the UK the number to dial is 999. The operator will then give you the choice of Police, Ambulance or Fire Brigade, who will then put you directly through to the emergency service you require.
NHS direct is an alternative medical helpline for non-life threatening medical emergencies, the number to dial for NHS direct is 111. This service is for when:
You need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergency
You think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service You don’t know who to call or you don’t have a GP to call
You need health information or reassurance about what to do next. For health needs you can contact your GP or pharmacist.
For non-emergency assistance from the Police, you should call 101 to report crime and other concerns that do not require an emergency response. For example, if:
Your car has been stolen
Your property has been damaged
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Term Dates
Spring term
Term start date: Early January Half-term holiday: Mid-February Term end date: Late March
Summer term
Term start date: Mid April
Half-term holiday: Late May – Early June Term end date: Late July
Winter term
Term start date: Early September
Half-term holiday: Late October – Early November Term end date: Mid December
Please check with your school for specific term dates and Bank holidays/National Holiday Days
Find out more on our websites:
www.engageeducation.co.uk
and
www.iday.co.uk
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