Frequently Asked Questions
You will find the answers to many of the questions you might have about the English and Soccer Programme on this page.
If you have any further questions, please get in touch via the 'Contact Us' page.
Football Programme
Do I have to be good at soccer?
No, players of all skill levels are welcome! The course concentrates on improving the individual player's skills, and they record their progress in their Player Passport with the help of their coach.
Do I get a certificate at the end of the course?
All students receive a certificate from Stafford House for the English and Soccer course, plus their Player Passport as a record of their progress on the soccer course.
What do I need to bring?
All the equipment for the course is provided, but you will need a full sports kit, including football boots and training shoes.
English Course
How do I know the English course will be good?
Stafford House Study Holidays is accredited by the British Council, which sets standards for English language courses in the UK. Schools are only granted accreditation after going through a difficult inspection process which checks that their teaching meets high standards, and have good student welfare procedures.
My English isn't very good. Can I take the course?
Yes! All students are given a placement test when they arrive, and they will be placed into a class that suits their level of English.
Booking
Can I book a 3/4/5 week course?
The soccer programme is a specially designed two-week programme, so we can only accept students for one course. However, if you would like to stay for longer than two weeks, it is possible to book onto our general English language course for the extra time.
I can only get a flight on a weekday. Can I start the football programme when I arrive?
As this is a two-week intensive course, we can only accept students for the full course - students have to arrive on the Saturday or Sunday.
Do you accept girls on the football programme?
We have a programme for girls at our York centre. The programme is identical to that for the boys, except that the girls do football separately.
I have a medical condition/disability. Can I take the course?
We try to accommodate all students' needs, so please contact us before booking.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, all students should have travel insurance to cover accidents, emergencies and travel problems. Your travel agent will be able to suggest a suitable policy.
Student Welfare
If I come on my own, won't I get lonely?
Students share rooms, so you'll be introduced to other students as soon as you arrive! Apart from the football and English lessons, there will also be lots of activities where you will meet other students, so you won't be lonely.
Who will look after me at the school?
From the moment you arrive you will be looked after by our residential staff, including teachers and welfare supervisors, who are trained to look after international students.
How much pocket money should I bring?
We would generally recommend that students bring between £60 and £100 spending money per week.
Is there a laundry service?
Laundry isn't included in the price. At York there is a laundry service at the school, which students can use at extra cost. At Cheltenham there are coin-operated washing machines available for students to use.
Accommodation
Can I specify a single room?
No. All students are in shared accommodation.
Is the accommodation single or will I share with someone else?
In Cheltenham all rooms are single, but in York you will share with up to 3 other students.
Are meals included?
Yes, the course includes a continental-style breakfast, hot lunch and hot dinner.