Below are details of the first WELCOME COURSE we ran. If you would be interested in the next one please do be in touch, using the CONTACT link above.
Are you new to the UK? If so, welcome!
If you are living in Sawston or surrounding villages, we invite you to our Welcome Course. This is a way for you to meet local people, practise your English and learn about British culture. We are here to help you find your way around the local area and get settled here.
Who is it for?
Anyone who has come to live in the UK from another country! All are welcome (even if you have been here for a while already). If you are new to the area, we can help you settle in. If you want to take the government’s Life in the UK test to get resident status or citizenship, this course will help you learn what you need to know.
When is it?
10-11am on Wednesdays. The course is 6 weeks long, though we will skip the Wednesday of school half term. So the course will run on the following dates:
12th October, 19th October, (not 26th October)
2nd November, 9th November, 16th November, 23rd November
What if this is at a time I am not available?
Please let us know at welcome@christchurchsouthcambs.org. We may be able to run a future course at a time that suits you.
Where is it?
Spicers Pavilion, Cambridge Road, Sawston CB22 3DG
What can I expect?
A warm welcome from the team and a cup of tea or coffee. You will be asked to introduce yourself and say a little about where you are from. There will be short videos about British culture, followed by discussion. You can ask questions – anything you like! There will be a short fun quiz to help you learn from the videos (relevant to the Life in the UK test). The topics include: Welcome to the UK, Understanding British Culture, Making New Friends, Wellbeing, Problem Solving, Citizenship.
What if my English is not very good?
If you have a moderate level of English, you will be able to enjoy the videos and discussion. We are happy to help you practise your English conversation. At this time, we are not able to provide translation, but if this is something you would be interested in for a future course, please let us know, and for which language, at welcome@christchurchsouthcambs.org
Is there a cost?
No, Christ Church are pleased to offer the course for free.
Do I need to book a place?
No, please just turn up. But it would help us to know you are coming. You can send us an email to let us know, or to ask any questions, at welcome@christchurchsouthcambs.org or call 01223 830169.
What if I missed the first session?
No matter, just come along, you are welcome whichever stage of the course you turn up.
Can children come?
We are happy for you to bring babies and preschool children, there will be a few toys. If you have school age children who are not yet settled into a school, they are welcome to come too.
Is it a religious course?
No, although the course is run by a church, the content is about life in Britain, and we are here simply to be friendly and to help you settle in. The course is produced by an organisation called Welcome Churches, in partnership with the UK Government (https://www.ukhk.org/welcome-course-for-people-from-hk). It was first designed for new arrivals from Hong Kong on the British Nationals (Overseas) Visa scheme, but it is suitable for arrivals from any country. People of all faiths and cultures are welcome.
We hope to see you there!
Any questions, please email welcome@christchurchsouthcambs.org or call 01223 830169.