At Cardiff and Vale College, we want every international student to feel supported, safe and confident during their time with us.

Moving to a new country is a big step, and our staff are here to help you settle in, succeed in your studies and enjoy your experience in Cardiff.The College offers a range of services to support students academically, personally and practically throughout their studies.

International Team

The International Team is your main point of contact as an international student. They are available to support you both before you arrive in the UK and throughout your time at the College.

The team can help with:

Enrolment and arrival guidance

Questions about living in Cardiff

Accommodation support

Visa and immigration advice

Student activities and trips

General advice and support during your studies

Students can speak to members of the International Team on campus if they need support.

If you are unsure which department can help with a particular issue, the International Team can direct you to the appropriate support service within the College.

Email: international@cavc.ac.uk

Academic Support

Cardiff and Vale College provides a range of academic support services to help students succeed in their studies.

Success and Study Centre

The Success and Study Centre provides a quiet space where students can study independently, complete assignments and access learning resources.

Students can use the centre to:

• Access computers and digital learning resources

• Work independently or in groups

• Receive guidance on study skills and academic development

Tutors and Teaching Staff

Students will also receive support from their subject teachers and personal tutors.

They can help with:

• Understanding course content

• Coursework and assignments

• Study strategies and academic progress

If you need extra help with your studies, you should speak to your tutor or visit the Success and Study Centre.

Welfare and Wellbeing

The wellbeing of students is a priority at Cardiff and Vale College. A range of services are available to support students throughout their studies.

Support services include:

• Wellbeing advice and guidance

• Counselling services

• Mental health support

• Safeguarding support for students under 18

• Help with personal or practical issues that may affect your studies

Students can access these services through the Student Life Hub, where trained staff are available to listen and provide support.

Safeguarding Support

The safety and wellbeing of students is extremely important at Cardiff and Vale College.

The College has strong safeguarding policies to support and protect students, particularly those aged under 18. Dedicated staff are available to help if you have concerns about your safety or wellbeing.

You should speak to a member of staff if you ever feel:

  • Unsafe or uncomfortable

  • Worried about another student

  • Concerned about your wellbeing or accommodation

You can also visit the Student Life Hub, where trained staff are available to listen and help.

Important Information for Learners

  • Studying in the UK may be different from your previous educational experience. Students are expected to take responsibility for their learning and actively participate in their studies.

    Students are expected to:

    • Attend all timetabled lessons

    • Arrive on time and prepared

    • Complete independent study each week

    • Participate in class discussions

    • Respect staff and fellow students

    Attendance is monitored carefully, particularly for students aged 16–17. Parents or guardians may be contacted if attendance becomes a concern.

  • Depending on your programme, your progress may be assessed through a combination of methods, including:

    • Written examinations

    • Coursework assignments

    • Presentations

    • Practical or laboratory work

    The College takes academic integrity seriously. Students will receive guidance on plagiarism, referencing and the responsible use of AI and digital tools.

  • International students studying in the UK must follow certain immigration and attendance requirements. The College helps students understand these responsibilities and remain compliant with UK immigration regulations.

    Types of Student Visa

    Depending on the length of your programme, you may study in the UK under different visa types.

    Some students attending short programmes may enter the UK on a Standard Visitor visa, while students studying longer courses will usually study under the Student Route visa.

    The International Team can provide guidance if you have questions about your visa.

    Attendance

    Regular attendance is very important. The College monitors attendance closely to ensure students are engaged in their studies and meeting visa requirements where applicable.

    If you are unable to attend classes, you should inform the College as soon as possible.

    Updating Your Details

    Students must inform the College if important information changes, such as:

    • Your address in the UK

    • Your phone number or contact details

    • Changes to your immigration status

    Keeping your details up to date helps the College provide support and meet UK immigration regulations.

  • Students should always keep important documents safe, including:

    • Passport

    • Visa documentation or digital immigration status

    • Important college letters

    If any documents are lost or stolen, you should inform the International Team immediately so they can assist you.

  • As an international student aged 16 or 17, there are additional rules and responsibilities that help ensure your wellbeing and the safety of others. These are part of the College’s safeguarding policies.

  • Students are expected to:

    • Attend all scheduled lessons and tutorials

    • Arrive on time for classes

    • Inform the College if they are unable to attend due to illness or another valid reason

    Poor attendance may lead to further action and may affect your ability to continue your studies.

  • Students must behave responsibly both on campus and in their accommodation.

    This includes:

    • Respecting other students, staff and members of the public

    • Following College policies and rules

    • Treating accommodation providers and host families with respect

    • Looking after College facilities and accommodation property

    Any form of bullying, discrimination or anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and will result in a student being withdrawn from their course of study.

  • Cardiff and Vale College expects students to follow College rules, accommodation guidelines and UK laws at all times.

    If a student seriously breaches College policies or behaves in a way that risks the safety, wellbeing or learning environment of others, the College may take disciplinary action.

    This may include:

    • Formal warnings

    • Meetings with College staff and parents or guardians (for students under 18)

    • Temporary suspension from classes or activities

    • Withdrawal from the programme in serious cases

    These procedures help ensure that Cardiff and Vale College remains a safe and respectful environment for all students.

  • Students under the age of 18 must follow UK laws and College policies regarding alcohol and smoking.

    Students must not:

    • Drink alcohol if under 18

    • Use or possess illegal drugs

    • Smoke or vape in areas where it is not permitted

    Breaking these rules may lead to disciplinary action.

  • If you have any concerns about your wellbeing, accommodation, studies or safety, please speak to a member of staff.

    You can contact:

    • The International Team

    • Your personal tutor or teacher

    • Staff at the Student Life Hub

    Our staff are here to support you and ensure you have a safe and positive experience during your time at Cardiff and Vale College.