University of New South Wales -

Parents with sons or daughter's coming to College for the first time naturally have many concerns and questions. Those that follow are typical.

What support is offered to students when they first move in and throughout the year?

Coming to College involves big changes in a young person's life. Orientation Week is intended to facilitate the many adjustments that have to be made. A program of events introduces new residents to the College, the University and Sydney. It also begins the process of community formation and the creation of a 'home away from home'. A team of O Week leaders is appointed to be guides and points of contact throughout this week. They remain 'significant others' at least for the remainder of semester 1.

In O Week new residents are also introduced to the Resident Academic Staff. The Head of College and the Tutors provide academic and pastoral support throughout the year. Residents in each of the Kensington Colleges have the added benefit of access to the Tutors in the other Colleges: eg a resident of Baxter College is welcome to call on the tutors from Basser and Goldstein.

What happens if a student gets sick (given they are so far from their families)?

Residents are encouraged to take responsibility for the management of their own health and well being. The information they need for this purpose is supplied in O Week. Medical, dental and counseling services are available on campus.

It is very important that residents have their own Medicare card and ambulance insurance coverage. When residents are too ill to organize medical assistance for themselves, normally an ambulance will be called.

How do the Colleges attempt to contain drunk or offensive behaviour?

As a condition of their tenancy, residents are required to comply with both the Conduct and Alcohol Policies of the Kensington Colleges. These policies are intended to ensure that community standards of behaviour are observed at all times. Mutual respect and consideration are promoted as the basic values of College life.

Educational programs in matters relating to alcohol consumption and harassment are a compulsory part of the O Week program.

How safe are the College buildings? What access is there in to the buildings?

The Kensington Colleges enjoy a high level of security. Security doors ensure that entry into the College buildings is available only to people holding a duly issued security card.

What sense of collegiality is there?

College spirit develops quickly and easily. Organized academic, sporting, cultural and social activities develop this natural College spirit to high levels. It is also nurtured by a sense of identity as a member of Basser, Goldstein or Baxter College.

Is it possible for parents to stay overnight in their son or daughter's room?

Occasionally parents (and siblings) would like to stay overnight as they visit their son or daughter in residence. TKC is happy to supply a mattress etc for this purpose. Usually the resident takes the mattress so that the parent can have the bed.

How to C.O.F.A. students get to the C.O.F.A. campus?

The university provides a shuttle bus for easy movement between the main and C.O.F.A. campuses. C.O.F.A. is also on the main bus routes from the city to Kensington and Randwick.

How close are the Colleges to public transport and the nearest shopping centre?

Public transport in the vicinity of the University is provided by buses. Main bus routes run along the perimeter of the campus.

The nearest shopping centre is at Randwick, a 5-10 minute walk from the campus. The 'East Gardens' shopping mall is a short bus ride from the University.

Can students remain in residence during vacation breaks?

Residents are normally allowed to remain in residence during the vacation breaks. They are required to pay the vacation fee which will be published well in advance.

Can personal possessions be left at College during the vacation breaks?

The Colleges have fairly ample storage space, so that residents will normally be able to leave their possessions on site during the vacation breaks. This includes the long summer vacation period.