About the Cotswolds and Cirencester

The Cotswolds is located in the south west of England (only 90 minutes from London).  The name Cotswolds is derived from ‘Cots’, referring to sheep enclosures and ‘Wolds’ meaning gentle hills.  The Cotswolds was famous for the wool trade and many of the towns and villages reflect the aesthetics and wealth associated with this industry.  Surrounding towns such as Cheltenham, Bath, and Oxford offer excellent opportunities for visits, shopping and sampling the traditional British culture.

Our College is located in the lively market town of Cirencester, which is often referred to as "the capital of the Cotswolds" and its origins date back to the Roman period when it was one of the regional capitals of Roman Britain.  The Church of St. John the Baptist and the Roman amphitheatre are just some of the many sites that make the town unique.  Today the town offers many, shops, markets, restaurants, pubs, and a newly rebuilt leisure centre that houses a swimming pool, sauna, large sports hall, gym and fitness centre.

About The Royal Agricultural College

The Royal Agricultural College, often referred to as "the Oxbridge of the countryside", was the first agricultural college in the English speaking world.  Established in 1842, the College has been at the forefront of education since it was granted a Royal Charter in 1845.  We have a world-class reputation, both in the UK and overseas for developing the managerial skills needed to run successful businesses in the rural sector.  The College has three schools that teach at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels in agriculture, business and real estate and land management.

The College motto is 'Arvorum Cultus Pecorumque', a quote from Virgil's Georgics it means 'Caring for the Fields and the Beasts'.

Travelling in the Local Area

The College is only 90 minutes from larger cities such as London and Cardiff, and one hour from Bristol.  These cities all have large international airports and transport connections.  Cirencester offers an excellent coach service via National Express, and the nearby village of Kemble provides a rail service that allows travel around the country.  Discounted travel is available to students by purchasing a Young Persons Railcard.

Accommodation

There are various types of accommodation on campus, both en-suite and with shared bathrooms. Each room has a single bed, desk, wardrobe, bookshelf, bedside table and a kettle.  All have internet connection.  All rooms are sold on a 21 meal per-week catered tenancy agreement.  If you have a friend and would like to share, the large rooms in the Main Building are a great size with fabulous views out over the fields.

The en-suite rooms are in Main Building, Coad Court, Woodlands and Jubilee Lodge.  Coad, Woodlands and Jubilee have accessible rooms.  There are a small number of standard rooms in Main Building and Coad Court.  The dedicated standard blocks are George Wing, Bledisloe Court, Garden House and West Lodge.  

Life at College

Alongside your studies at the college, you will find lots of events and activities to keep you busy outside of studying. There are over 20 sports clubs and societies that you can be part of, from joining the Football Team to playing cricket, and from getting involved with the Student Business Club to the singing in the College Choir.  There is something for everyone and plenty of opportunities to make new friends.

The Student Union also organise various events and nights out throughout the year that you can be part of.  Trips to Oxford and Newcastle are frequently arranged and are good fun.

The International Student Society

When you start at the college you will be invited to join the International Society, an inclusive society for all RAC students. The motto of the International Society is: "Be proud of who you are, but respect others".

The Society aims to provide a forum to understand the different cultures of students and staff at the College through guest speakers, who are often invited to lead discussions, and a varied social calendar. Activities include parties in the Tithe Barn, celebration of the Chinese New Year, film nights and visits to some of the fascinating local cities and places of interest.

Student Support and Wellbeing

On your arrival at college you will be partnered with an academic member of staff who will be your Personal Tutor whilst you are studying with us.  This relationship will give you the opportunity not only to go and discuss any academic or personal issues that you may have, but also to be able to build a pathway to your future career.  You are encouraged to make the most of this relationship.  It is always best to e-mail your tutor if you want to see them because despite an open door policy, it avoids disappointment.

In addition to your Personal Tutor, we also have many other staff members that can support you while you study.  The International Student Support Officers are able to help with any questions you might have about studying and can support you with your English.  They will even make sure you are settling into life in the Cotswolds alright.

 The Student Liaison Officer is often your first point of contact for any issues that are making you unhappy while on campus.  There is also a College Nurse available on campus to support you with any medical issues and the Careers centre will help you find employment once you have finished your studies.