A new centre providing a focal point to support the needs of international students from the University of Chester and help them feel more at home during their studies, has been opened in the heart of Chester.
The International Centre at Temperance Hall, George Street, Chester, was officially opened by the Chinese Consul General Li Yongsheng. He was welcomed by Professor Tim Wheeler, the university’s vice-chancellor and guests including Lord Mayor of Chester Bob Rudd and Lady Mayoress Sandra Rudd.
The new facility houses the university’s international marketing, recruitment and admissions, the study abroad and the English for academic purposes teams. The aim of the centre is to create a ‘one-stop shop’, to meet the needs of international students – from application to graduation – with university staff available in a single location to help answer any queries.
As well as providing offices for staff working with international students, the building also includes a Student Zone lounge area with sofas where students can relax and a flat for visiting international lecturers.
The university was recently shortlisted for an Education Links Award in the UK Trade and Investment (North West) Award and recruits students from China, among 80 other countries.
The university has strong partnerships with a growing number of prestigious Chinese universities – in addition to many other universities across five continents.
Professor Wheeler said: “The University of Chester prides itself on the warm welcome it offers to all its students. This new facility will provide a central location to support our international students as they enjoy their studies and life in the city and will help to enhance their experience, both academically and culturally and in terms of the administrative aspects of their stay.
“I was delighted to invite the Chinese Consul General Li Yongsheng to open our new facility. The university has had a long and constructive relationship with China, which is continuing to develop, and the creation of the international centre is testimony to our commitment to providing international students with a warm welcome to the university, the city and the UK.”
Dr Chris Haslam, pro-vice-chancellor, corporate development and the student experience, said: “The outstanding successes of the university are being reflected in an enhanced international profile for the institution. We continue to attract students from across the world to come and study with us and the creation of the International Centre reflects the importance we attach to developing both the international profile of the university and the region. We have undertaken valuable work in China and we are absolutely delighted to welcome the Chinese Consul General to open our new Centre.”
Professor Alexis McLean, Dean of the International Centre, said: “The newly-opened International Centre is delighted to now offer a wide range of services, providing a one-stop-shop for international and home students. It is anticipated that the provision of a number of key support services, such as international student admissions, recruitment and marketing, English for academic purposes and, study abroad and student exchange will provide students with the necessary support, which will enhance and enrich their student experience, at the University of Chester.”
