Events and activities across the UK
In each location where Friends International has staff
or volunteers, there are events and activities
designed especially for international students. This page gives
you an idea of what you might be able to join in with. To find out
what’s going on in your area click here.
Welcome Programmes
Friends International staff and volunteers often organise "Welcome
Programmes" at the start of the academic year. This can include
various welcome and social events and outings to help you settle
into your new life and make friends.
Outings and Social Events
Friends International staff usually plan a variety of social activities
during the year for international students. Typically the social
events include visits to historical places of interest, trips into
the countryside, special meals, celebrations, sporting or other
cultural events.
Introduction to British Families
Some Friends International staff organise hospitality schemes
where they can put you in touch with British families in their city,
who will invite you into their home for meals. This is a lovely
way to get to know British people and their families. Hopefully
this friendship will continue during your stay in Britain.
International Cafés
In many cities, Friends International staff and volunteers run
international cafés. They are a great place to make new friends,
relax, practise your English, and enjoy some refreshments in a friendly
environment. Cafés open on a regular basis, usually weekly.
International Women's Groups
Some Friends International teams organise events especially for
international women, which are open to students or wives of students.
These groups are a good place to make friends with women from across
the globe, learn about the British way of life and provide an environment
where children are welcome and can play. The events range from Parents
and Toddlers groups to weekly-organised activities, coffee mornings,
English classes, Bible studies etc.
Parents and Toddlers Groups
Are you an international student who is bringing your wife/husband
and family to Britain during your studies? If your partner is not
a student, she/he may often feel lonely and isolated. Many Friends
International teams organise "Parent and Toddlers Groups"
that run for a couple of hours in a morning or afternoon each week,
and provide an opportunity for parents to meet new people and for
their children to play. Parents can arrive and leave at any time
during the session, but they can not leave their children. There
are often refreshments for the parents and toys for the children.
Help with British Culture
Friends International has produced a booklet Guide to life in
the UK that explains about the way of life in the UK, its customs
and culture. It gives useful information about transport, healthcare,
post, telephones, shopping, money, religious life, public holidays
etc. It also describes the type of local facilities one can expect
to find in a city. In addition, Friends International staff and
volunteers are always happy to explain any aspects of British culture
and customs. You can order a copy of the booklet for just £1
from Friends International (resources@friendsinternational.org.uk).
Bible Studies
Do you want to get to know more about Christianity? Are you a
Christian who wants to grow in your understanding of the Bible?
Friends International staff and volunteers meet with individuals
and groups to study the basics of Christianity. Christianity has
played an essential part in the development of the history of Britain
and its culture. Although sadly today much of our "Western
lifestyle" is opposed to Christian values. Friends International
believes in a living God, the Bible and that Christianity is still
very relevant today. These activities are entirely optional and
open to people of any faith or none.
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