For many people, the UK is the first port of call for international adventures. Because English is so extensively used in international business and entertainment, the total number of English speakers, including those who speak it as a second or foreign language, is estimated to be around 1.5 billion.

However, when English-speaking foreigners visit the UK, they often find aspects of British culture, lifestyle, and norms surprising. Here’s our (light-hearted) introduction  to UK that you might find useful:

Q: How can I fit in with the locals?

A: Humour is one of the cornerstones of Britishness! A dry sense of humour, including sarcasm, irony, and understatement,  will always go down well. You’ll hear a lot of English people making fun of themselves and their culture – the quirkier the better!

Try not to be irritated by British small talk. People can be reserved and use small talk as a way to ease into conversations, which can differ from more direct communication styles. Far from wasting time, it’s also used to help everyone feel comfortable and included.  Learning to join in with pub ‘banter’ over a pint will also endear you to the locals.

Q: How do I pronounce the strange place names?

A: In all honesty, it’s not always easy! For example, you’d be laughed off the Royal Mile if the locals heard you say Edin-burg. Ed-in-bruh all the way! Leicester is a city in the Midlands, but don’t be tempted to call it Lie-chester – it’s Lester, according to the Brits.

If you find those challenging, you’d best not be tempted to cross the Welsh border. Bwlchgwyn (Boolkh-gwin), Cwmystwyth (Koom-uh-stwith) and Ynysybwl (uh-nis-uh-bool) are all towns in the country which is known for its distinctive language andCeltic culture. Confused? So are their English neighbours. Those place names don’t even have vowels!

Q: Do they really drive on the left?

A: It’s true. And it doesn’t actually take too much getting used to. Just remember, the driver’s seat is on the right. When you come across a roundabout, you need to give way to coming from the right. It might seem daunting, but once you get the merry-go-round out of your head, you’ll be absolutely fine.

Q: Why are Brits obsessed with the weather?

A: The British habit of discussing the weather, despite its generally mild nature, can seem peculiar to new arrivals. They soon discover that weather in the British Isles is nothing if not changeable. You should definitely invest in an umbrella, and incorporating layers into your wardrobe is always a good idea.

Q: Is there a ‘right’ way to make tea? A: Er – yes. And if you want to get on with the Brits, you need to know how. Tea comes first, followed by milk. Sugar is optional and lemon is rare! Most importantly, the water must be boiling when it hits the leaves. Leave the microwave alone – it’s simply not fit for this purpose!

Q: What’s good to eat? A: National classics are taken very seriously in the UK. Most people have heard of fish and chips, a ‘full English’ breakfast, and Yorkshire pudding, but there’s much more on offer. Afternoon tea is back in fashion (often with cocktails as well as tea), and if you’re venturing into Scotland or Wales, you should definitely keep an eye out for Cullen skink and Welsh cakes.

Every culture has its foibles! Living and working in a big city like London will provide a really good view of the UK, its diversity, and what can be achieved here.  Pertemps Education is committed to helping overseas trained teachers, and those interested in gaining valuable and rewarding experience working in UK schools.

Our specialist overseas recruitment consultants regularly place candidates in roles such as:

• Teachers in primary and secondary schools
• Long term supply teachers
• Short term supply teachers – to cover sickness or other absences
• Early years educators
• Cover supervisors
• Pastoral support assistant
• Primary pastoral support
• Mental health support worker
• Intervention support assistant
• Unqualified teaching assistants
• Special educational needs (SEN – SEND) teaching assistants
• School receptionist or other support roles

Get in touch with Pertemps Education now to find out more.

As a social worker, embodying core values and ethics is essential to your practice. According to The British Association of Social Workers (BASW), these principles should guide your interactions with clients and shape your overall impact on the community. In this blog, we will delve into the fundamental values and ethical considerations that should be at the forefront of your social work career, providing a comprehensive understanding of why these elements are so crucial. 

Respect for Human Rights and Dignity

This value is particularly important for social workers who, on a daily basis, make decisions that impact the future needs of those they work with. In these moments, social workers are to: 

• Promote and uphold human dignity and well-being 

• Respect individuals’ right to self-determination 

• Advocate for the right to participate 

• Approach work holistically 

• Recognise and nurture strengths 

It’s vital to understand that every individual has a unique background, with diverse circumstances and needs. Your decisions and actions should always be informed by these factors. Recognising the abilities and strengths of each person, group, or community ensures that everyone is empowered to achieve their desired outcomes. 

Empathy

Empathy is a cornerstone of effective social work. It involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which fosters strong relationships with clients. Social workers should: 

• Actively listen to clients’ concerns 

• Validate their emotions 

• Build trust through open communication 

By demonstrating empathy, you create a safe space for clients to share their experiences, which is essential for effective support and intervention. 

Integrity

Integrity involves upholding strong moral principles in all interactions. Social workers are expected to: 

• Maintain honesty and transparency 

• Uphold ethical standards consistently 

• Act in the best interests of clients 

Being reliable and ethical not only builds trust with clients but also reinforces professional standards in the social care sector. 

Respect for Diversity

Respecting diversity is crucial in today’s multicultural society. Social workers should: 

• Acknowledge and appreciate different backgrounds 

• Adapt approaches to suit individual client needs 

• Commit to cultural competence 

Embracing diversity enhances the effectiveness of interventions and ensures that all clients feel valued and understood. 

Social Justice

Advocating for social change is a key aspect of social work. Social workers should strive to: 

• Challenge systemic inequalities 

• Promote policies that benefit marginalized groups 

• Empower clients to advocate for themselves 

By embracing social justice, you contribute to meaningful changes that can positively impact individuals and communities. 

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is fundamental to building trust in social work. Social workers are responsible for: 

• Protecting client privacy at all times 

• Educating clients about their rights regarding confidentiality 

• Clearly communicating the circumstances under which information may be shared 

Upholding confidentiality reinforces the professional standards expected in social work practice. 

Client-Centred Approach

A client-centred approach focuses on the needs and preferences of your clients. Social workers should: 

• Involve clients in the decision-making process 

• Respect clients’ autonomy and choices 

• Tailor support to individual circumstances 

This approach fosters collaboration and encourages clients to take an active role in their own care, leading to more effective outcomes. 

Professional Competence

Continuous professional development is essential in social work. Social workers should: 

• Engage in ongoing education and training 

• Stay informed about industry standards and best practices 

• Seek supervision and feedback to improve practice 

By committing to lifelong learning, you ensure that you provide the best possible care. 

Boundaries

Establishing professional boundaries is crucial for effective practice. Social workers should: 

• Clearly communicate the nature of the professional relationship 

• Maintain appropriate distance while being supportive 

• Protect both themselves and their clients from conflicts of interest 

Setting boundaries contributes to a safe and respectful environment for all parties involved. 

Advocacy

Being an advocate for clients is a critical responsibility for social workers. This involves: 

• Supporting clients’ rights and access to services 

• Raising awareness about social issues affecting clients 

• Empowering clients to advocate for themselves 

By actively advocating, you help to amplify the voices of those you serve. 

Embodying the core values and ethics of social work is crucial for building a successful career in this field. By incorporating these principles into your everyday practice, you have the power to make a meaningful difference in your clients’ lives and positively impact the community.  

At Pertemps Social Care, we are committed to supporting you on your journey to a fulfilling career in this vital profession.  

If you’re ready to advance your social work career, we have a wealth of opportunities waiting for you.  

With our deep understanding of the social work profession, we’re here to help you find the ideal role that aligns with your aspirations, brings you lasting fulfilment, and elevates your career to new heights. 

Get in touch to discover our current job openings and see how we can support your job search today! 

As a social worker, embodying core values and ethics is essential to your practice. According to The British Association of Social Workers (BASW), these principles should guide your interactions with clients and shape your overall impact on the community. In this blog, we will delve into the fundamental values and ethical considerations that should be at the forefront of your social work career, providing a comprehensive understanding of why these elements are so crucial. 

Respect for Human Rights and Dignity

This value is particularly important for social workers who, on a daily basis, make decisions that impact the future needs of those they work with. In these moments, social workers are to: 

• Promote and uphold human dignity and well-being 

• Respect individuals’ right to self-determination 

• Advocate for the right to participate 

• Approach work holistically 

• Recognise and nurture strengths 

It’s vital to understand that every individual has a unique background, with diverse circumstances and needs. Your decisions and actions should always be informed by these factors. Recognising the abilities and strengths of each person, group, or community ensures that everyone is empowered to achieve their desired outcomes. 

Empathy

Empathy is a cornerstone of effective social work. It involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others, which fosters strong relationships with clients. Social workers should: 

• Actively listen to clients’ concerns 

• Validate their emotions 

• Build trust through open communication 

By demonstrating empathy, you create a safe space for clients to share their experiences, which is essential for effective support and intervention. 

Integrity

Integrity involves upholding strong moral principles in all interactions. Social workers are expected to: 

• Maintain honesty and transparency 

• Uphold ethical standards consistently 

• Act in the best interests of clients 

Being reliable and ethical not only builds trust with clients but also reinforces professional standards in the social care sector. 

Respect for Diversity

Respecting diversity is crucial in today’s multicultural society. Social workers should: 

• Acknowledge and appreciate different backgrounds 

• Adapt approaches to suit individual client needs 

• Commit to cultural competence 

Embracing diversity enhances the effectiveness of interventions and ensures that all clients feel valued and understood. 

Social Justice

Advocating for social change is a key aspect of social work. Social workers should strive to: 

• Challenge systemic inequalities 

• Promote policies that benefit marginalized groups 

• Empower clients to advocate for themselves 

By embracing social justice, you contribute to meaningful changes that can positively impact individuals and communities. 

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is fundamental to building trust in social work. Social workers are responsible for: 

• Protecting client privacy at all times 

• Educating clients about their rights regarding confidentiality 

• Clearly communicating the circumstances under which information may be shared 

Upholding confidentiality reinforces the professional standards expected in social work practice. 

Client-Centred Approach

A client-centred approach focuses on the needs and preferences of your clients. Social workers should: 

• Involve clients in the decision-making process 

• Respect clients’ autonomy and choices 

• Tailor support to individual circumstances 

This approach fosters collaboration and encourages clients to take an active role in their own care, leading to more effective outcomes. 

Professional Competence

Continuous professional development is essential in social work. Social workers should: 

• Engage in ongoing education and training 

• Stay informed about industry standards and best practices 

• Seek supervision and feedback to improve practice 

By committing to lifelong learning, you ensure that you provide the best possible care. 

Boundaries

Establishing professional boundaries is crucial for effective practice. Social workers should: 

• Clearly communicate the nature of the professional relationship 

• Maintain appropriate distance while being supportive 

• Protect both themselves and their clients from conflicts of interest 

Setting boundaries contributes to a safe and respectful environment for all parties involved. 

Advocacy

Being an advocate for clients is a critical responsibility for social workers. This involves: 

• Supporting clients’ rights and access to services 

• Raising awareness about social issues affecting clients 

• Empowering clients to advocate for themselves 

By actively advocating, you help to amplify the voices of those you serve. 

Embodying the core values and ethics of social work is crucial for building a successful career in this field. By incorporating these principles into your everyday practice, you have the power to make a meaningful difference in your clients’ lives and positively impact the community.  

At Pertemps Social Care, we are committed to supporting you on your journey to a fulfilling career in this vital profession.  

If you’re ready to advance your social work career, we have a wealth of opportunities waiting for you.  

With our deep understanding of the social work profession, we’re here to help you find the ideal role that aligns with your aspirations, brings you lasting fulfilment, and elevates your career to new heights. 

Get in touch to discover our current job openings and see how we can support your job search today! 

As exam season gets underway, stress levels spike in schools right across the UK.

While much of the focus is on how students cope with exam pressure, less attention is given to the professionals guiding them through it: their teachers. In reality, exam-related stress doesn’t stop at the classroom door – it affects staff wellbeing too.

Teachers’ Hidden Stress

Teachers absorb much of the emotional strain their students carry. As young people become anxious about revision, performance and outcomes, teachers often find themselves managing not only lesson content but also emotional support. This emotional labour can lead to increased stress, fatigue and burnout among teaching staff.
Add to this the pressure of meeting performance targets, coordinating exam logistics and maintaining classroom behaviour and it becomes clear why exam season can be one of the most difficult times in the school year for teachers.

How Stress Shows Up in Schools

Signs that staff are under pressure might include increased irritability, exhaustion, reduced morale or higher levels of absenteeism. It’s important for school leaders to recognise that while supporting students is a top priority, it can’t happen effectively if teacher wellbeing is overlooked.

When teachers are stressed, it often shows up in how they interact with students. This can lead to a cycle of tension in the classroom, which further increases anxiety for everyone involved.

Practical Ways to Support Teachers

So how can schools reduce the impact of student stress on their staff during exam season?

1. Acknowledge It: Simply recognising that exam stress impacts teachers too is a powerful first step. School leaders should create safe spaces for staff to express how they are coping.
2. Provide Emotional Support: Offering wellbeing check-ins, access to counselling, or peer support systems can go a long way.
3. Streamline Administrative Load: Where possible, reduce additional workload or delay non-urgent tasks so teachers can focus on exam support and their own wellbeing.
4. Equip Teachers to Handle Student Anxiety: Provide training on recognising signs of anxiety in students and offer strategies teachers can use to manage those moments calmly and confidently.
5. Encourage Self-Care and Boundaries: Promote a culture where teachers take breaks, switch off after school hours and know it’s okay to prioritise their own mental health.

Creating a Healthier Exam Season for All

If you’re affected by the issues discussed in this blog, or supporting someone who is, the following organisations offer helpful resources and support:

• Education Support – The UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of teachers and education staff.
• Mind – Offers information and advice on managing stress, anxiety, and workplace wellbeing.
• Teacher Support Line (via Education Support) – Free, confidential helpline: 08000 562 561
• NHS Every Mind Matters – Practical mental health tips and self-care support:
• Samaritans – Free emotional support, 24/7, for anyone in distress: Call 116 123

Managing exam stress in schools is not just about students. Supporting teacher wellbeing during exam season is essential to maintaining a healthy school environment and achieving the best outcomes for all.

By recognising the emotional impact on staff and taking proactive steps, schools can build resilience across the whole community -leading to calmer classrooms, stronger relationships and better performance.

For some overseas teachers, supply teaching is a great way to gain a regular income while indulging their thirst for travel from a UK base. It offers a wide range of benefits, such as variety of work, the ability to relocate easily, and offers a great deal of flexibility.

If you are interested in starting your global journey in the UK, keep reading!

Qualifications

To be a supply teacher, you’ll need to have obtained your Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) before you arrive in the UK.

Not a qualified teacher? Don’t worry, it’s more than likely that we’ll be able to find you regular supply work as a teaching assistant. You don’t need QTS to be a teaching assistant.  

You’ll need to be flexible

To have the best chance of securing supply teaching contracts and staying busy, you will need to be flexible. Once we’ve got you cleared and ready for work, we’ll be able to confirm the details of your assignment either the night before or the morning the assignment starts.

Ideally, we’ll confirm the night before. We like to give you as much time as possible to prepare your commute and lesson plans, but the nature of supply means that it will often be the morning of the assignment.

Schools start calling us from around 6.00 am! But most don’t have their requirements confirmed until around 7.30 am. From your point of view, having the flexibility to say yes to these last-minute calls means more supply teaching roles will come your way. Being up and ready to go in the mornings gives you the best chance to be on time. There will be a class full of children eagerly waiting for you!

Depending on where you are living, having access to a car, will help. Otherwise, getting to know the local bus, train or tube links will get you where you need to be. Turning up late, may affect your pay, as the school will have to get someone else to cover until you arrive.

Your preferences?

You can specify which ages/subjects you’d like to teach, or which types of school you want to work at, but this will filter your options and reduce your earning potential. 

Newbies need plenty of varied experience quickly. Having exposure to a wide range of schools and students will be invaluable – and you’ll notice your confidence and employability increasing too.

It also means that if you decide to look at full time teaching in the future –  either in the UK or back home, you’ll have a stronger CV, and a clear idea of where your own strengths and interests lie.

However, when you’re starting out, it pays to be flexible – not fussy!

Plan Ahead

In the life of a supply teacher, planning is key. When that call comes at 7.30 am, you’ve essentially got 60 minutes to make it into the classroom. It pays to be ready!

• Set off early, so you have plenty of time to beat the traffic or queues for public transport and find the school.
• Make sure you know what to do and who to speak to when you arrive at reception.

You want to set the tone for a good day, and turning up flustered, stressed and late is not a good look.

Lesson plans

Every great supply teacher comes armed with lesson plans.

Many schools will have plans for you to follow, but there will be times when this isn’t the case. You’ll need to use your own plans to ensure the pupils are engaged and on task. Don’t leave home without them!

You may have lesson plans you created at university, or during teaching practice. Don’t forget you’ll need to check they fit the bill in the UK.

Over time, you’ll build up a selection of your own lesson plans – and why not share with the teachers around you? You’ll use them time and time again, and strengthen your network of colleagues at the same time.

However, if the school has a set lesson plan, you should follow it. It’s there for a reason. Not sticking to the plan risks throwing off times and targets. Remember, you want to make a good impression.  

Show Confidence

Full disclosure: supply teaching can be tough.

You’re walking into a new classroom with children you don’t know, and behaviour you’re not sure of. AND you’re delivering a curriculum that’s – quite literally – foreign to you!

New faces, and change of any sort can be disruptive in the classroom. Entering with confidence will set the scene and discourage bad behaviour. Immediately grab their attention, start delivering your plan, and let them know who’s in charge. 

When it comes to behaviour management, experienced supply teachers agree that you shouldn’t try to change too much. They advise that you should avoid asking students to ‘help’ with rules or routines, because the chances are, they won’t!

Kids can be challenging, and the supply teacher can be an easy target. If you get the chance, speak to a teaching assistant (TA) or another teacher beforehand. In many cases you’ll be issued with policies and procedures when you arrive at the school. Getting a clear idea of what’s expected will give you a firmer footing if students try to take advantage of the newbie. 

Making a good impression will get you more work

As the saying goes, first impressions count! If you make a good impression, schools will start to ask for you back by name and put you on their preferred list. Many schools work in partnership with others, so if you play your cards right, you should end up with as much work as you can cope with.

At the end of a day, don’t forget to mark any work that’s outstanding, and ensure the classroom is tidy so the teacher that you have been covering for won’t have to worry about it when they’re back in.

Wear what works

You’ll need to dress smartly, but also for comfort. Most teachers are on their feet for most of the day, and if you’re in reception or nursery classes, you’ll often be bending down and sitting on the floor.

As a rule of thumb, in most schools in the UK, jeans, t-shirts and trainers are a NO. 

In summary…

Supply teaching is a great way to gain a wide variety of teaching experience.

Yes, you’ll often be on the spot, but the need to plan ahead and have confidence in yourself are both essential qualities for succeeding in teaching – wherever you are in the world.

Thinking of coming to the UK to work in a school? Perhaps you’re already here?

If you’re stumped for ideas of things to do over the summer break, here’s a taster of the incredible activities open to you during the six-week summer holiday:

The British Museum

Open almost all year round.

• Sunday – Monday: 10am – 5pm
• Tuesday – Thursday: 11am – 5pm
• Friday: 11am – 8:30pm

Is history your thing? Look no further than the British Museum!

Dedicated to human history, art, and culture you’ll have a great time walking through the largest museum in the UK. The museum is free to enter with access to permanent galleries, although it’s important to remember that special exhibitions usually require a fee.

Fun fact: the British Museum has been used in a number of movies, such as Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, The Essex Serpent, and Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb.

Feel like a trip to the British Museum would be a fun day out? Click here to discover more.

The Lyceum Theatre – The Lion King

If musicals are your thing, then visiting The Lyceum Theatre in London to see Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ should be on your ‘awesome days out’ list! 

This West End theatre opened in 1834 with a seating capacity of over 2,100. People of all ages can be sure to have a fantastic time here.

‘The Lion King’ musical is now on its 24th year of performing at the Lyceum Theatre, it’s 2 hours and 30 minutes long, including an interval (a break halfway through the performance). You have until 15 October to catch it. 

Check out ticket prices here. 

The Blackpool Tower Circus

Click for Blackpool Tower opening times.  

The Blackpool Tower Circus runs from 11 February – 5 November 2023 

The Blackpool Tower Circus started in 1894 and is an incredible experience. The show consists of numerous acts from all over the world, awe-inspiring stunts and comedy acts to keep you thoroughly entertained.

The show is two hours with a 20-minute interval.

Learn more about the history of the circus here. 

Want to see what else is going on at Blackpool Tower? Click here! 

And if you’re not a fan of heights there are many more activities to do in Blackpool, such as visiting the arcades, the Pleasure Beach, Sandcastle Waterpark, and much more!

UK National Parks

Open to the public all year round for FREE.

Grab your walking boots because the UK has 15 national parks, all of which are available to the public and protected by law. There are ten in England which cover 10% of the land area, three in Wales which cover 20% of the land area, and two in Scotland which cover 7.3% of the land area.

There are many things that you can do in these beautiful, protected lands, such as walking or even cycling through nature, birdwatching, stargazing. There’s no light pollution, so you’ll have a front row seat to all the universe has to offer. Take your camera for all the photography opportunities. Do your research first, but there are safe lakes for swimming, plus a range of water activities such as boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, etc.

National Parks: South Downs, New Forest, Dartmoor, Exmoor, Pembrokeshire Coast, Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia, Peak District, Broads, Yorkshire Dales, Lake District, North York Moors, Northumberland, Cairngorms, and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

Quite rightly, the UK is known for its history. Whether you’re tracking ancient street names in the City, or film locations in the West End, there’s always lots to do.

London nightlife shouldn’t be overlooked, either. It’s a city that is bustling, vibrant, multicultural and cosmopolitan.

It’s a place where old and new just works! Traditional pubs rub shoulders with the newest cocktail bars, and famous nightclubs with world renowned DJs work perfectly alongside underground futuristic arcades. London really does have something for everyone.

Imagine bringing an adult twist to all your favourite childhood memories… You can do exactly that at Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch – there’s a million balls, two giant ball pits and stunning cocktails to match! If sport is more your thing, how about mini golf in Swingers, just off Oxford Street? Your drinks will be delivered to you while you’re getting your hole in one. Or try NQ64 for arcade-style gaming with weekly DJs spinning tunes into the early hours. It’s great for craft beers and themed cocktails including a Crash Bandicoot-inspired ‘Aku Aku Fruit Punch’ and a Super Mario-style ‘Power Star Martini’. If that’s not enough, we recommend Happy Hour in Simmons Bar. There are lots of locations and between 4.00 – 8.00 pm you can get two cocktails for just £10.

Music lovers are also well catered for in the UK, with a choice of multiple music events taking place every day. Many artists tour around the country in a variety of amazing venues. You can support new and upcoming artists or your favourite performer from just a tube or train journey away.

The streets may not be paved with gold, but London is known for opportunity. This is just a small taste of what it has to offer. As the capital city, it’s certainly a great place to start, and is a perfect base from which to explore a much bigger world.

It’s fair to say that London is not known for being inexpensive, but with a bit of thought and some comfortable walking shoes, you can definitely stick to your budget without compromising on the enjoyment levels.

As a starting point, pack up a picnic and head to Hyde Park. Before you settle down to your sandwiches, why not see what’s going on at Speakers’ Corner? Located on the north-east edge of Hyde Park, nearest Marble Arch and Oxford Street, it’s been a traditional site for public speeches and debates since the mid 1800’s when protests and demonstrations took place in Hyde Park.

Carry on south and stroll through Green Park. You’ll be practically rubbing shoulders with the royal family as you pass Buckingham Palace. Have a look out for the Royal Standard (not to be confused with the Union flag), but if it’s flying, it means the King is in residence.

Another short walk will take you to Westminster, next to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. It’s a great place to pick up the £3 Uber Boat to the South Bank.

Keep your wits about you when you land – it’s an area known as a favourite of skate boarders and trick cyclists! But there’s a whole range of creativity on offer. Fuel your artistic side at Leake Street. These former railway arches next to the famous Graffiti Tunnel were brought back to life in 2008, when none other than Banksy turned the tunnel into a celebration of urban art and exhibition space. Today, still an oasis of street art, Leake Street actively encourages graffiti on the walls and ceilings.

There are also food and book stalls flanked by street artists and buskers. Before you know it you’ll have reached the famous Tate Modern gallery – definitely worth a visit, and with free entry, you can’t go wrong. If you’re there in time for dinner, you can do a lot worse than grabbing a bite to eat at Borough Market. You’ll be supporting a growing community of small artisan businesses and enjoying some amazing, tasty food.

This is just a sample of the amazing treats in London that are free or won’t break the bank. There’s so much to explore and enjoy.

Once you’ve established your base in the UK, you will quickly see that it opens a huge door to amazing cities, beautiful countryside, and a wide array of history close by.

In an hour or two you can be a world away from London. With direct trains to Oxford, Bath or Bristol, visitors can immerse themselves in cities that are like real-life theme parks! Celebrate the country’s medieval heritage, the roller-coaster of the commonwealth and the more recent film locations that made the Harry Potter movies come to life. Many of the Hogwarts scenes were filmed at Christ Church College, Oxford, where you can book a room and enjoy breakfast in The Great Hall. Make sure to pose for a photo on the 16th century staircase, where Harry and his fellow first-years are greeted by Professor McGonagall.

You’re also on the doorstep of our European neighbours. Whether you have a couple of nights or a couple of weeks to spare, you’ll be able to plan exciting trips to match any taste and budget.

Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras for access to a range of northern European options: within three hours you could be enjoying a croissant under the Eiffel Tower! If you’re keen to go further afield, City Airport has over 30 destinations to choose from: Barcelona is home to Gaudí’s magnificent architecture, delicious Catalonian cuisine, and one of the most famous football stadiums in the world. You may not have heard of it, but centrally located on the mainland of Denmark, Billund is the birthplace of LEGO and the home of the original LEGOLAND theme park. If you’re chasing the sun, Portugal’s southern town of Faro has beautiful medieval architecture and stand-out seafood. There are beaches, of course, but there’s much more to this pretty historic town and its natural surroundings.

If you’re wondering what to do with a weekend, a half term holiday or the generous six-week summer break, you’ll find there’s never a dull moment. Take a chance, come to the UK and see what we have in store for you!