Help Centre

You can choose from two of the most famous and iconic cities in the UK:

Cambridge is a traditional university city with a global reputation for academic excellence. Over a fifth of its residents are students, giving the city a modern, cosmopolitan feel. Our Cambridge school has been home to Bell for nearly 60 years. It offers a picturesque study environment and a supportive student community. Located within easy reach of the historic city centre, it features impressive study, social and leisure facilities including a large contemporary learning centre, student games room and indoor and outdoor dining areas.

London is one of the most diverse and multicultural cities in the world. Study in the capital and be inspired by the unique combination of rich history and global innovation. At Bell London, you’ll enjoy a contemporary and modern school in the heart of the city, next to the famous River Thames.

We welcomed 98 different nationalities to our schools last year, so we can safely say there is a wonderful and diverse nationality mix at both our Bell Cambridge and Bell London schools.

On arrival you will receive a warm welcome and a comprehensive introduction to the school. Here’s a taste of what you can expect on your first day:

Arrival
You will be greeted by our student services team and given your student welcome pack, which includes your Bell student ID, maps of the local area, emergency contact form, a pen and note paper.

Language test
Your language level is tested to ensure you are placed in the correct class.

Student induction
You will receive an introduction to the school and take a tour of the facilities.

Lessons
After morning break, you will start your lessons and meet your new classmates.

After lessons
End your first day by attending our Language in Action programme and meet some new friends. In Cambridge we run a city orientation tour every Monday and our London team hosts a welcome talk, where you can ask any questions about staying in the capital.

Your child does not need a lot of clothing, but please remember that it can sometimes be cold and wet in Britain. A number of activities will take place outside, so your child is likely to get a little dirty or wet depending on the weather conditions.

We recommend that students bring:

• Casual clothes for everyday wear
• Warm sweaters
• Something to wear at a party or disco
• Walking shoes
• A warm coat or jacket (preferably waterproof)
• Jogging pants and sweatshirt
• Sportswear and sports shoes (non-marking soled shoes must be worn in all indoor sports halls).
• Towels

For Winter Explorer at St Albans:

• Hat, scarves and gloves
• Warm waterproof coat/jacket
• Old trainers

Site specific items

At Bell Tudor Hall there is a swimming pool. If your child wants to swim they should bring:

• Swimming costume or trunks
• Towels for washing and swimming
• Goggles (if required)

For specific Academies, we recommend they bring the following items:

Tennis

• Multi-surface trainers
• Tennis racket (rackets are provided to students who do not have their own)

Horse-riding

• Tight fitting trousers of jeans, or jodphurs
• Suitable outdoor footwear, preferably wellington boots or riding boots
• Waterproof jacket

Luggage

Your child should only bring one suitcase, in addition to their hand luggage. Please check with your airline regarding weight restrictions for luggage on both outward and return flights and remember to attach your Bell luggage labels.

Valuable items

Please note that Bell cannot be responsible for the safety of valuable items and students wishing to bring them do so at their own risk.

Toiletries

Your child must bring their own towels, soap and shampoo, as well as a hairdryer and adapter if desired. Paper hand towels are provided in bathrooms.