If you’re thinking about looking for a graduate job in the new year, what better place to start than a list of the best companies to work for in the UK in 2020?

We’ve based our list on Glassdoor’s ‘50 Best Places to Work 2019’. The company uses feedback from UK-based employees posted on the site, plus their numerical ratings (on a scale from one to five) from the past year.

Read on to discover the best organizations to work for in the UK to get a head start on your 2020 job hunt…

10) Royal London

The tenth best company to work for in the UK is insurance provider Royal London, the largest mutual life, pensions and investment company in the country. The organization’s employees enthuse about the sense of teamwork. One employee said: “Everyone is really friendly, approachable and helpful. I have never been in a work environment where the sense of team is so high”.

Another employee described the company as having: “so many talented people who are passionate about what they do [which] makes for a great culture and great results”.

While the company doesn’t have a specific graduate scheme, they offer roles at all levels, with entry-level roles perfect for math, finance or accounting grads.

9) Taylor Wimpey

FTSE 100 company Taylor Wimpey is one of the largest residential developers in the UK, building over 10,000 homes every year. Employees praise the “fantastic environment, great culture, support, training opportunities, business direction and strategic approach to the industry”.

Taylor Wimpey offer a two-year rotational graduate scheme, with participants completing four six-month placements in all areas of the business, including production, commercial, technical, sales and marketing, customer service, land and finance. The scheme is open to graduates with a degree in any discipline. 

8) SAP

German-based software giant SAP ranks among the best companies to work for in the UK, and its employees are enthusiastic about the company. One commented: “SAP invests A LOT on people's wellbeing and growth. The company culture supports helping each other as well. I've been benefiting from shadowing and mentoring of amazing people around the world.”

The company offers several graduate schemes in different areas of the business. These include the Silicon Valley Next Talent Program (in Development), the SAP Academy (in Sales), the Global Finance Rotational Program and the HR Early Talent Program.

7) Hiscox

Global insurance company Hiscox is seventh in Glassdoor’s roundup of the best companies to work for in the UK. The company attempts to challenge the norms of an insurance company, with a real focus on their employees from day one. One employee said the biggest pro for working at Hiscox is: “the people! There is a really great culture and a very strong values-driven ethos. The structure is relatively flat with easy access to talk to people at all levels throughout the company.’

Hiscox offers two graduate programs, including the underwriting graduate program and the business graduate program. The 27-month schemes are open to graduates with a minimum 2:1 honors degree (or international equivalent).

6) Sky Betting & Gaming

There’s no need to take a gamble on employee satisfaction when you work at Sky Betting & Gaming, as the company achieved glowing reviews on Glassdoor such as: “Vibrant, exciting, fast-paced. A place to think big and really achieve things you couldn't in other businesses. People have really strong ideas and are able to put them into practice.”

Sky offer a Tech Academy Graduate Program, open to graduates of all degree disciplines. This can put you on the path towards a company-sponsored master’s degree in Digital and Technology Solutions, accredited by Sheffield Hallam University.

5) Salesforce

Salesforce is an American cloud-based software company, primarily focused on CRM. With over 10,000 employees worldwide, this global tech giant received the following praise on Glassdoor: “Teams are full of talented individuals and the company supports your career aspirations and development.”

The company offers a number of internships and graduate jobs across the globe, as well as more specialized research roles for students with master’s or PhD level qualifications.

4) Bromford

Bromford is one of the largest housing associations in the UK, with over 44,000 homes across central and south-west England. They also get high praise from employees, such as: “The teams I have worked in have been great, [with] very dedicated staff, [and a] fantastic atmosphere…It is a pleasure to come to work!”

Although the company doesn’t have a specific grad scheme, their Bristol Housing Partnership (BHP) Academy, launched earlier this year, aims to attract young people to careers in housing development. 

3) XPO Logistics

Transport and logistics services giant XPO Logistics takes the bronze medal position in Glassdoor’s list. The company has a staggering 100,000 employees spread over 1,537 locations worldwide. Despite the company’s huge size, one employee said: “XPO feels like a family. Everyone helps each other to achieve success.”

XPO has a thriving graduate program, lasting two years with participants completing four six-month assignments in transport or logistics.

2) Bain & Company

A name that will be familiar to any business student, Bain & Company are one of the ‘Big Three’ management consultancy firms. Employees praised the “fantastic culture [and] smart, motivated, inspirational people who genuinely care about each other and their clients”.

Bain offers a summer internship program for bachelor’s degree candidates, which is a great way to get your foot in the door. Graduates can then apply for associate consultant (AC) roles - although, be warned, the process is notoriously competitive!

1) Anglian Water

Taking the top spot in the UK is Anglian Water, a water utilities company operating in the east of England. One employee said: “The workforce is clearly proud, passionate and really cares about the work they do, which results in a really positive culture and working environment.”

Anglian Water offers five graduate programs, all of which last two years in duration. These include the water services & water recycling operational graduate programs; the customer & wholesale services graduate program; the information services graduate program and the strategic delivery & commercial assurance graduate program.

Sponsored by University of Virginia – McIntire School of Commerce

Do one-year specialized business degrees have the ability to disrupt the business education status quo? A report published by the General Management Admissions Council (GMAC) in April 2019 found that, for only the second time in the last decade, 47 percent of candidates prefer the idea of pursuing a one-year MBA compared to 45 percent who would prefer to study a two-year MBA program.

One-year study formats with integrated international study and work experiences are becoming increasingly popular, so we spoke with Katherine Campbell and Samy Ahmed, both graduates of the M.S. in Global Commerce at the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce about their experiences and how the M.S. in Global Commerce is making waves in the world of business education.

You can earn two degrees and one certificate within a year

There’s often a lot of talk about how the graduate job market is getting more competitive each year. As a result, many prospective students want their degree to offer unique learning opportunities, from internships with global organizations, to innovative technologies that offer the most up-to-date learning experiences.

While some institutions offer the opportunity to study a dual degree or double degree, there aren’t many that offer the possibility of graduating with three qualifications – all within the space of one year.

Bringing a fresh twist to the business school education landscape, the McIntire School of Commerce allows recent graduates with relevant undergraduate business degrees to earn an M.S. in Global Commerce from the University of Virginia in the United States, as well as an M.S. in Global Strategic Management from ESADE Business School in Spain and a certificate in International Business from Lingnan (University) College in China. Phew!

“It’s hard to name another program that can offer students such an invaluable experience,” says Samy.

“From leadership development classes to marketing analytics lectures, the M.S. in Global Commerce represents a solid choice for students and young professionals interested in expanding their knowledge on different but complementary aspects of doing business in a global scenario.”

You’ll be able to launch yourself into a global career trajectory

Before you’re even accepted onto a particular graduate business degree program, you’ll be expected to have at least two years’ worth of professional experience under your belt.

Although it’s not impossible to get the experience before embarking on further education it can be a relief to learn that some graduate business degrees, such as the McIntire’s School of Commerce M.S. in Global Commerce, require little or no work experience at all.

Institutions constantly reimagine their degree programs and curricula to meet the demands of a constantly evolving business landscape in order for students to enhance their knowledge and understanding of global business, markets, and strategies.

McIntire is no different; the program is designed to offer students a practical skill set that is immediately available to them upon entry to the workforce.

“I wanted to be a doer, a problem-solver, and a people person,” says Samy.

“The M.S. in Global Commerce gave me ‘a stage without a ceiling’ to pursue my dreams, shape my professional life, and craft my career goals.

“In a world that is profoundly interconnected and desperately in need of international managers, this program gives powerful analytical tools to prepare students to become effective professionals and global leaders.”

At the McIntire School of Commerce, for example, 92 percent of students have gained access to 300+ hiring companies across a wide range of global corporations in the United States, Asia, and Europe, students have gone on to work at global companies like Amazon, Rolls-Royce, Google, Vodafone, GSK, Volvo, and Marriott International.

After graduating from the M.S. in Global Commerce in June this year, Samy joined Lenovo as a Senior Global HR Strategist as part of the company’s Global Future Leader Program – a five year-long accelerated leadership development program.

“I joined this tech giant three months ago and embarked on an eight-week business trip across the globe to recruit top talent to support our organization.

“I have a very hectic schedule that really excites me. Today I’m in San Francisco, tomorrow I could be in Chicago, Beijing or New York City!

“I have to credit McIntire for the two main skills I use on a daily basis at work: being very flexible and open-minded.”

Samy says that at Lenovo, new technologies are rolled out every month. “Being able to quickly adapt to new changes represents a big competitive advantage you need to succeed in such a fast environment.

“My time at McIntire has helped me stretch my boundaries and question what I wrongly believed were indisputable truths: Nothing is forever,” he says.

You will gain cultural competencies that will set you up for a global career

Studying abroad is no longer a novelty in business education. With more business schools offering study abroad opportunities than not, how can you make sure your study abroad experience provides you with the skills, knowledge and expertise that’ll really make you stand out to potential employers?

While a lot of study abroad experiences focus on cross-cultural competencies, the unique format of the M.S. in Global Commerce takes you to three world-renowned business schools across three continents: the United States, China and Spain.

The immersive learning experience allows students to live and study together across the globe as they gain a full understanding of how different cultures operate inside and outside of the workplace.

“Thanks to the M.S. in Global Commerce, I’ve traveled across three different continents, cultures, and lifestyles, and I’ve realized there are actually very few people who can understand and appreciate the cultural and geopolitical similarities different cultures have,” Samy says.  

It’ll help you build and expand your global network

The ability to tap into the various global business frameworks used around the world and work effectively in an international setting within cross-cultural teams is crucial, as everything which goes into business is inherently global, from resources to operations, financial capital to knowledge capital.

“When I originally applied for the program, I was hoping to expand my global mindset and learn to work with people from various cultural backgrounds in preparation for a global career in business,” says Katherine.

“While the program allowed me to achieve these goals, it also provided me with seemingly never-ending opportunities through the colleagues and alumni networks at all three schools.”

After graduating from the M.S. in Global Commerce in June 2018, Katherine began her career in consulting, moving from from Charlotte in North Carolina to New York City, where she now works as a financial services consultant for Ernst & Young.

When asked how the M.S. in Global Commerce has contributed to her career, she told us: “The program is all about adaptability, which is something that has been significantly applicable during my time in consulting.

“On the more technical side, I've used many of the concepts taught in the Excel course on a daily basis on my current project,” she adds.

Business and international relations go hand in hand, so for many aspiring business professionals, having a degree with an international component can enhance your learning massively.

McIntire offers an unparalleled experience that allows you to spend one year growing personally and professionally while traveling the globe, moving between varying business environments and cultures, as well as positioning yourself to work in a global context early in your career.

Image credit: KathrynW1 on Flickr

St John’s College, Oxford, has been ranked as the best Oxbridge college by a new ranking in The Telegraph.

An Oxbridge education is seen as the gold standard of education in the UK, but debate has long reigned over which college has the most to offer.

This new ranking attempts to answer that question, by looking at certain key data as well as the opinions of recent graduates.

Of course, whichever college you attend you will still be getting a degree from one of the highest-ranked universities in the world (the University of Oxford is fourth and the University of Cambridge seventh in the most recent QS World University Rankings). Plus, you’ll even get longer holidays than at any other UK university!

Only two colleges from Cambridge are included in the Telegraph’s top 10, which can be seen below.

Why this matters

The universities of Oxford and Cambridge operate under a collegiate system, with students applying to a college of around 300 to 800 students rather than the university as a whole. The college you choose can have a huge impact on your university experience, both personal and academic, so it’s worth doing your research if you’re thinking of applying to Oxbridge.

This ranking assessed Oxbridge colleges across four key areas: financial assets, academic performance, lifestyle and accommodation. The individual areas are ranked on a scale of one to 10, and these are added together to achieve an overall score out of 40. It’s worth exploring the full results when deciding which college is the best fit for you.

Interestingly, different colleges came top for each of the ranking indicators. Trinity College Cambridge scored 10 for financial assets (the college owns more land than Queen Elizabeth II), while Oxford’s Merton College achieved a perfect score for academic performance.

Wadham College, Oxford, and Homerton College, Cambridge, scored full marks for Lifestyle and Accommodation respectively – but neither made it into the overall top 10.

Although St John’s didn’t come first in any of the four ranking indicators, it scored consistently highly across all areas and that’s why it’s ranked first overall. They score phenomenally well for financial assets, with net assets of £631.6 million and an endowment of £551.5 million – around £1 million of assets per student. The college is noted for its generosity, offering a huge range of scholarships, bursaries and grants.

Tom Ough, an alumnus of St John’s, told the Telegraph: “We had something like £250 a year to spend on books, we had travel grants and scholarships, and, if we fell on hard times, we could apply for emergency funding…fundamentally, St John’s generosity made my time at Oxford a whole lot easier. For others, it made their time at Oxford possible.”

It’s finally December – Christmas decorations are up, university is finishing for Christmas, and you’re enjoying loads of festive activities! The only problem is, money is starting to run a bit short…   

Getting a job over the Christmas break is a great way to make a bit of money and enhance your CV with some valuable skills. Many companies offer temporary Christmas jobs over December and January, particularly in the hospitality and retail sectors, where they have to keep up with the demand for Christmas parties and present buying.

Companies also know that this is the time when students will be returning home for their university Christmas break, so there are often many jobs available to students who want to find temporary work over the festive period.

Read on as we answer your questions about earning some extra cash over Christmas…

Why should I get a Christmas temp job?

Temporary Christmas jobs are a great way to gain work experience, skills, and money, while working in a way that’s flexible for you. There’s no notice period, no long-term commitment, and you might get to try something completely new – like working as an elf!  You may even get a full-time job offered to you if you really impress your employer (and they have job openings).

Working for a company that you might want to work for in the future can look good in your subsequent job application, as it shows you are committed to the brand.

What jobs are available over the Christmas period?

The retail and hospitality industries have some of their busiest periods over Christmas and are therefore constantly looking for temp workers. There are a variety of different roles available in both sectors, so you’ll be able to find the one that’s right for you.

Supermarkets are particularly busy, with most large supermarkets offering seasonal jobs with the same discounts and benefits as full time roles. Pubs, bars and restaurants are looking for temporary workers, and many are willing to offer full training. Call center jobs and delivery jobs are also amongst those available for students looking for work over Christmas.

There are also festive roles available such as working as a store elf or as Santa, a Christmas market winter assistant, postal assistant (sorting through Christmas post) or even as a Christmas gift wrapper!

How do I find Christmas temp jobs?

“Spread your job search as wide as possible” says the National Careers Service website, “there are plenty of places to look”. They recommend job websites, such as Glassdoor, Indeed, The Job Crowd and Milkround to help make your Christmas job search a lot simpler.  

They advise using recruitment agencies that specialize in temporary work contracts: “agencies can be useful to help you find jobs that aren't advertised to individuals online or in the press.” You can apply for these agencies online through websites such as Agency Central.

LinkedInis another great way to find temporary Christmas jobs. Find out more about using social media to get a job here.

When should I start applying for these jobs?

The sooner you apply the better. Some Christmas jobs open as early as October, but most open in November, and many advertise in December – so you still have time to apply!   

What is the application process like?

Again, this depends on the type of job you’re looking for. Most will ask for an initial online application, where you’ll be asked to submit basic information, your CV and possibly a cover letter. You may be then asked to complete some online tests if you are applying to a larger company – find out how to prepare for online psychometric tests here. Successful applicants will then be invited to attend a either a group interview, or individual interview.

To prepare for your interview, find out how to answer the most common job interview questions here.

What skills do I need for these jobs?

The skills you’ll need will, of course, depend on the job you’re applying for. “Start by making a list of the key characteristics needed for the role you’re applying to,” the founder of Interview Expert Academy, Jonathan Burston, tells the Guardian. “Then match the key characteristics of the role to your skills by showing how you have that relevant experience.”

This experience can be paid or unpaid, or even academic or from a hobby. Matching your skills and experience to those requested on the advert shows that you can pay attention to detail, and that you can apply your skills to those in the job description. For example, health and beauty store, Superdrug say they are looking for “a positive mindset, people who can support their team to get things done and enjoy getting involved.” Here you could talk about a time when you supported a team (for example in a group project or in a part time job) and give examples of when you were involved (perhaps in a university society.)

Remember, the company is only hiring you on a temporary basis, so they want to know that you are reliable, can complete any given task and provide excellent customer service at all times.

Read these handy tips on how to make your job application stand out.

When will I be working?

Most Christmas temp jobs will expect you to work at least one out of Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, so make sure you are available to work on those days if required.

How often and when companies expect you to work will, once again, depend on the company, and you’ll usually be able to select a more flexible contract if you wish. For example, UK retailer Next says they have “a range of contracts available, from now until January 2020, or for as little as 2 days over [the January] sale” so you really can suit your workload to your availability.

Do you fancy a trip to a London theatre this Christmas, but can’t afford the expensive tickets? What if we told you that you might be able to see some of the best theatre shows in London for free, or failing that, for 10p?! If you think this sounds too good to be true, be prepared to be surprised.

Read on as we reveal some of ways students will be able to see the best London shows for cheap this Christmas…

1. Royal Court Theatre: 10p standing tickets or £15 sitting tickets for under 26s.  

Flickr: yekkes

Yep, you heard us: 10p. These tickets go on sale one hour before each Jerwood Theatre Downstairs performance. The tickets are standing only and may not always be available, so it is worth checking in advance, but where else could you find 10p London theatre tickets?

If standing isn’t for you, you can also try out for the £15 seated tickets by joining the Young Court Friends group – a free membership scheme for under 26s. You can join here.

All seats in the Jerwood Theatre Downstairs and Jerwood Theatre Upstairs are £12 for Monday performances available on their website from 9am on the day of the show.

2. Shakespeare’s Globe: £5 standing tickets

Flickr: mdpettitt

Located on the bank of the River Thames in London, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre is a world-famous attraction. Built in 1599, the theatre was home to the performances of many of Shakespeare’s plays, such as Othello, Macbeth and Henry VI, but burnt to the ground in 1613 and was rebuilt in 1614 (later to be demolished in 1644). The theatre we see today is a realistic replica of the 1599 and 1614 buildings.

Students will be pleased to discover that £5 standing tickets in the yard section are available for each performance. However, it’s worth noting that the performances may last for two and a half hours so if you get tired easily, you may want to look into getting sitting tickets. Whether you’re standing or sitting, you’re bound to enjoy the theatre’s timeless performances.

For students looking to get in the festive mood, there are still tickets available a ‘Christmas at the (snow) Globe’ where you can sing along with the talented Fourth Choir with a cup of mulled wine and help make paper chains to decorate the ultimate London theatre.

3. Donmar: free tickets for 16 to 25 year olds

Flickr: fiyero

Donmar Warehouse is a not for profit theatre situated in London’s Covent Garden. This London theatre has won more than 100 awards in its 27 year history and produces a variety of plays and musicals.

Donmar’sYOUNG + FREE project offers a free ticket access scheme for 16 to 25-year olds, where a number of free tickets are released every month for the performance the month after. The tickets are then offered by ballot to those signed up for the YOUNG + FREE email alerts (which you can do here). There’s a limit of two tickets per person and tickets must be collected from the box office at least 30 minutes before the performance, with the collector showing a valid ID.

£10 standing tickets are also available by phone and in person from seven days before each performance.

4. Young Vic Discount: £10 tickets for under 25s

Flickr: grimnorth

The Young Vic Theatre’s primary aim is to ‘develop plays for young audiences, an experimental workshop for authors, actors and producers’ and the theatre produces a range of high-quality plays at a low price.

The Young Vic offers a number of £10 tickets for every production to people aged under 25 and full-time students (you will be asked for proof of age or full-time student status when you collect your tickets). The theatre recommends that you book in advance, as the discount has a strictly limited availability.

Alternatively, you can purchase ‘lucky dip tickets’, open to everyone. Lucky dip tickets guarantee standing tickets, but you may be lucky enough to be upgraded to seated tickets if any become available.

You will also be able to enter the £5 First Preview Lottery for one week until midday on the day before the first preview performance of each production.  You can enter this using the TodayTix app.

5. National Theatre: Entry Pass

The National Theatre aims to ‘reach the highest possible audience, to be open, inclusive and diverse and as national as possible’. Located on London’s South Bank, the National Theatre offers great deals for students, such as the Entry Pass. 

The National Theatre Entry Pass is available to UK students, or any UK resident under the age of 26. This is a free membership, which offers access to £7.50 tickets and exclusive workshops, as well as events and discounts across the National Theatre.

6. The Yard: No Empty Seats

Image credit: Timeout.com

Located in Queen’s Yard, Hackney Wick, The Yard is a converted warehouse theatre, built out of recycled materials by a group of 50 volunteers in 2011. The theatre offers diverse, progressive theatre which is accessible to everyone.

Students can benefit from discounted tickets through The Yard’s ‘No Empty Seats’ project, which offers £5 tickets to anyone under the age of 25 if there are any tickets left on the night. All you have to do is turn up on the night of the show and ask if there are any tickets available (perfect for London students).

7. Mousetrap: Go Live

Mousetrap is a theatre education charity based in the West End, which aims to bring theatre to disadvantaged young people. The charity offers discounted tickets to top London shows for as little as £7 per ticket for those between 15-18 and £12 per ticket for those aged 19-24.

This offer is available to those aged 15 to 24 under the Go Live program. Those aged 25 to 29 can also benefit from discounted tickets under the Go Live Grads program. These schemes also offer the opportunity to write and get reviews published on their website and get exclusive Q&As with the cast and the creative team after most shows, as well as being able to join two exclusive club nights per month.

8. Royal Shakespeare Company: RSC Key £5

Flickr: rodeime

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) Key Members can experience theatre in London for just £5 for those aged between 16 and 25 years old. You can join for free here.

Available London theatre productions include hit West End production, Matilda the Musical, and tickets will be available on the day of each performance from 10am at the Cambridge Theatre Box Office. There is a maximum of one ticket per person and proof of age ID will be required.

Check out the RSC website to see which other plays and musicals are available.

The upcoming UK General Election looks to be a two-horse race, with Labour and the Conservatives leading the way in the polls. We have explored in detail what the two major parties are proposing in their manifestos here, but it’s important to consider what the other parties in Parliament are vowing to do if they disrupt the status quo and gain power.

If you’re struggling to decide who to vote for, and the two major parties don’t appeal, read on to discover what the Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, the SNP (in Scotland) and Plaid Cymru (in Wales) are promising students in their 2019 manifestos.

Liberal Democrats

Leader: Jo Swinson

Number of MPs: 20

Slogan: Stop Brexit. Build a Brighter Future          

• The Lib Dems will stop Brexit by revoking Article 50 and spending the £50 billion ‘Remain bonus’ on public services.
• They will create a ‘Skills Wallet’ of £10,000 to be offered at three stages of every adult’s working life for education and training courses.
• They will put 1p on the basic rate of income tax to spend on health and social care.
• Planning to recruit 20,000 more teachers as part of an extra £10 billion a year to be spent on schools.
• They will tackle the climate emergency by generating 80 percent of UK electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030.
• Introduction of a legal, regulated market for cannabis.
• To develop the skilled workforce, the Lib Dems will offer a new two-year visa for international students to work after graduation.
• Will require universities to make mental health services accessible to their students and introduce a Student Mental Health Charter through legislation.
• Reinstatement of maintenance grants for the poorest students.
• Extra help for nursing students, including bursaries for specialties with shortages such as mental health and learning disability nursing.

Green Party of England and Wales

Number of MPs: 1

Leader(s): Jonathan Bartley and Siân Berry

Slogan: Leading the Fight for Climate Action, a People's Vote, a Fair Society for All              

• The Greens plan to invest £100 billion a year by 2030 as part of a ‘Green New Deal’ in order to combat climate change. This will mainly be paid for by borrowing and tax increases, including raising corporation tax to 24 percent.
• Plan to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2030 and building 100,000 new zero-carbon homes for social rent each year.
• Will introduce a universal basic income of at least £89 per week for every adult by 2025.
• Banning the construction of nuclear power stations and fracking for oil and gas.
• Want to increase NHS funding by at least £6 billion a year.
• Will scrap university tuition fees, and any students who were studying under the £9,000 tuition fee regime will have their debts wiped off.
• Will hold a further Brexit referendum and campaign to remain in the EU.
• Want to introduce proportional representation, create a fully elected House of Lords and extend voting rights to 16 and 17-year olds.
• Invest a further £1 billion a year in nursing higher education, including bursaries.

Scottish National Party

Leader: Nicola Sturgeon

Number of MPs: 35

Slogan: It's Time to Choose Our Own Future        

• Will keep Scotland in the EU and back a new UK-wide referendum on EU membership.
• Focus on independence for Scotland, with a second independence referendum being a priority.
• The proposed National Health Service Protection Act will prevent trade deals causing profit-driven exploitation.
• Investment in the economy and public services to end austerity.
• Devolution of immigration powers, employment law and drug policy.
• Scrap Trident and invest the billions saved into public services.
• Implementing a Green Energy Deal that ensures green energy schemes get long-term certainty to support investment.
• Re-introduce the post-study work visa scheme that was scrapped in 2012 by the Conservative/ Liberal Democrat coalition.
• No return to tuition fees in Scotland for Scottish and EU students.

Plaid Cymru

Leader: Adam Price

Number of MPs: 4

Slogan: Wales, It's Us / Ni yw Cymru       

• Hold a ‘Final Say’ referendum on Brexit, which will campaign to remain in the EU.
• £20 billion investment in green infrastructure by asking the UK government to give an additional 1 percent of GDP over 10 years and raising Wales’ borrowing limit.
• Make Wales a carbon-neutral and single-use-plastic-free nation by 2030.
• Deliver publicly owned full fiber broadband by 2025.
• Set up an Independence Commission to recommend how Wales can achieve independence in the next decade.
• Will provide a subsidy for Welsh students who wish to complete their university studies in Wales.
• Work towards free higher education for all.

Sponsored by Montpellier Business School

Many people plan on going to business school only once, so it’s essential you’re well-informed and choose the right one. But what are some of the key things you should bear in mind when it comes to choosing a business school that can determine both your professional and personal development for the years to follow?

We’ve teamed up with Montpellier Business School to find out.

Consider the cost and location

For many, the decision starts and ends with the cost of tuition. The decision whether to relocate also plays a large part in the decision-making process. 

Many major cities around the world are known for higher cost of living, but there are locations where opportunities and quality of life are just as good and come without the heavy price tag. 

If the idea of studying abroad in France intrigues you, you may be pleased to learn that living costs in Montpellier in the south of the country are 30-40 percent lower compared to the capital, Paris. The city of Montpellier was also ranked in the top five in L’Etudiant magazine’s student cities 2019 ranking. 

It also pays to consider what you want to do after you graduate and where you want to do it. The network you establish during your time at business school can mean lifetime connections.

Know whether you qualify for any scholarships or special funding

Scholarships can be worth thousands and are awarded based on various criteria. The most common scholarships are awarded for academic excellence. Other scholarships include athletic scholarships, merit-based scholarships, and needs-based scholarships.

At Montpellier Business School, for example, extended payment options are available and individual scholarships are awarded up to the value of €2,000 (~US$2,212) according to admission results.

Utilize global rankings

Whether you love them or hate them, rankings can help give a good idea of what the business schools you’re interested in are like and how they compare to other schools.

For example, the QS Business Masters Rankings 2020 consider five main criteria: alumni outcomes, diversity, employability, thought leadership and value for money.

A school’s reputation for academic excellence also plays a large role in your decision. Only 91 business schools out of 14,000 in the world hold the “triple crown” accreditation from the most sought-after international accreditations: AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS. Montpellier Business School is one of them.

It’s also a top 15 business school in France and it’s Master in Management program is ranked as the 77th best of its kind in the world in the QS World University Rankings: Masters in Management Rankings 2020.

Find out what additional services and support the school provide

Moving abroad to study and leaving your home country behind isn’t always easy. At Montpellier Business School, all international students are offered help and support with finding accommodation and applying for a French visa. Students are also help when it comes to administrative procedures such as opening a bank account or enrolling for French social security as well as free French classes on campus.

And when it comes to the school’s career center, you’re definitely going to want to make the most of it. For example, Montpellier Business School’s Career Centre support students in building their professional career through internships, business cases, seminars, conferences and entrepreneurship opportunities. Within the school, the Career Center offers professional support and personalized advice when it comes to helping students find a placement, or help them get ahead in their inevitable graduate career search.

Be realistic – are the entry requirements achievable for you?

It’s easy to get lost in the myriad of business school prospectuses and all they have to offer. But it’s important to bear in mind what your chances are of being accepted into the school and program of your choice.

Many business schools (but not all), will require you to have a GMAT/GRE test score, proven English language proficiency to a certain level, as well as attend an interview – whether it’s face-to-face or in a video.

At Montpellier Business School, students can opt to study their degree in either English or in French. Before the term begins, international students also take part in an induction week and attend free French classes, so you can make the most of your experience.

Consider the study format

Different schools have different curricula and specializations, so you’ll want to research whether the school you’re interested in aligns with your career ambitions and personal interests.

What do you value the most when it comes to your studies? Are you looking for a management program that places a strong emphasis on all areas of business and leadership? Or are you looking to upskill in finance or marketing? Do you want a curriculum that’s hands-on and offers experiential learning opportunities? Or do you prefer case-method learning and group work?

Or if you’re still undecided, that’s ok as well. Finding a program that’s well-rounded in all areas of business, such as management, economics, finance, and marketing can put you in good stead for acclimatizing to specialized business master’s programs, such as the Master in Management program and Masters of Science program at Montpellier Business School.

The two-year long program offers an optional third year called a ‘gap year’ which can be taken between first and second year. During the gap year, students are encouraged to undertake one or two internships at a leading company in the sector of their choice, anywhere in the world in order to develop their skills, get involved in a humanitarian mission, or even create their own start-up.

Visit the school and higher education fairs and events

Once you’ve narrowed down your options to two or three schools, visiting the school can really help you get a feel for it. You’ll be able to speak with past and current students, as well as professors and other faculty members. It’s also a great way to get a sense of the school’s alumni network and find out about their accomplishments and achievements.

Sometimes visiting the school’s campus isn’t always possible, and some schools take part in higher education fairs and events all around the world. Montpellier Business School, for example, visits places such as mainland China, India, Morocco, Brazil, and Colombia to meet with students and answer any questions and doubts they may have.

And if prospective students can’t attend a fair, some business school organize webinars and create their own online fairs instead.

Montpellier Business School will organize its next webinar in January 2020 to help students find the right business school for them in France.

Approaching the end of November, there’s only one thing on every student’s mind – the Christmas break! But have you ever wondered which universities in the UK have the longest Christmas break (and why you didn’t go there?!)

We have selected 30 of the 84 UK universities featured in the World University Rankings 2020, to find out once and for all which UK universities have the longest time off at Christmas. We also reveal which UK universities have the shortest Christmas holidays (hint: it’s less than two weeks!). Read on to find out more…

1. University of Oxford: 42 days

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Holiday Start Date: Saturday 7^th December 2019

Holiday End Date: Sunday 19^th January 2020

In first place, for both the length of university Christmas breaks and the university rankings index in the UK, is the University of Oxford. Only at the University of Oxford can students can enjoy an incredible 42 days holiday – six whole weeks! Oxford has a wide range of Christmas activities to enjoy, from wreath making workshops, Christmas dinners, Michael Bublé tributes and much more.

2. University of Cambridge: 36 days

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Holiday Start Date: Saturday 7^th December 2019

Holiday End Date: Monday 13^th January 2020

Not far behind, either in the university rankings or in the length of the Christmas break, is the University of Cambridge. University students can enjoy Cambridge’s famous Mill Road Winter Fair, which contains a variety of craft stalls, buskers, circus performers, poets, storytellers and dancers to keep you entertained.

3. Queen Mary University of London: 35 days

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Holiday Start Date: Saturday 14^th December 2019

Holiday End Date: Sunday 19^th January 2020

In third place we have Queen Mary University of London, located in London’s East End, with a Christmas holiday spanning 35 days. With this long break, you’ll have almost enough time to enjoy all the incredible Christmas activities London has to offer. If you’re looking for some ideas, check out a student’s guide to Christmas in London here.

4. University of Manchester and Kings College London: 30 days

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With 30 days’ worth of Christmas holiday, we have the University of Manchester and Kings College London, in fourth place this year. We’ve already established how many Christmas activities are available in London, but what about in Manchester? University of Manchester students can enjoy the city’s Ice Village this Christmas, which includes an ice cavern, the -10 degrees Ice Tiki Bar and a brank new ice-skating rink.

5. UCL, LSE, University of Warwick, Durham University, University of Sheffield, University of Birmingham, University of Leeds, University of Nottingham, University of Leeds, University of York, University of Reading: 28 days

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 28 days appears to be the most common length for university Christmas holidays, with 10 of our 30 UK universities having a lengthy four-week break. Many of the universities on the list are situated in cities offering excellent Christmas markets, as well as other festive fun. University of Sheffield students can visit the famous THOR’s Tipi bar; serving ale, mulled wine and hot cider as well as delicious wood-fired pizzas. Students can also enjoy the city’s popular Christmas Market, which is open from 14^th November and has a range of unique products and tasty treats.

6. Lancaster University: 27 days

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Holiday Start Date: Thursday 12^th December 2019

Holiday End Date: Thursday 9^th January 2020

With just under four weeks, Lancaster Uni ranks sixth in our list of the UK universities with the longest winter breaks. Lancaster hosts an annual three-day Christmas market in the Lancaster Brewery, with food, drink and plenty to do (it’s also dog friendly). Lancaster also plays host to ‘Lancaster on Ice’, an event in which the historic garden of Dalton Square is transformed into an incredible ice rink. 

7. The University of Edinburgh, University of Bristol, University of Portsmouth, University of Brighton, Newcastle University, Cardiff University, the University of Exeter: 21 days

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 Seven of our 30 featured UK universities have a decent three-week break from lectures. Amongst them is Scottish university, the University of Edinburgh, where snow is almost guaranteed each year. If you’re spending Christmas at Edinburgh this year, you can expect to experience the city’s 24 doors of advent – a real-life advent calendar around the city. On the other end of the country in Brighton, students staying around the city at Christmas can enjoy the well known ‘burning of the clocks’ event on 21^st of December, where local people make paper and willow lanterns and parade through the city to mark the shortest day of the year.

8. Imperial College London, University of Glasgow, Bournemouth University and University of Liverpool: 19 days

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With 19 days holiday are Imperial College London, the University of Glasgow, Bournemouth University and the University of Liverpool. Those staying around Bournemouth this year can enjoy the Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland; a spectacle of over 100 sparkling trees and illuminations, as well as live music, an enchanted walkway and plenty of festive bars. Glasgow also offers a variety of Christmas themed activities, including your choice of Christmas themed afternoon teas, tucking into a delicious three course Christmas meal onboard a vintage Routemaster bus and watching the big band play in the city’s concert halls.

9. Ulster University: 17 days

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Holiday Start Date: Monday 16^th December 2019

Holiday End Date: Friday 3^rd January 2020

Located in Northern Ireland, Ulster University students have a 17-day Christmas break. With four separate campuses across Northern Ireland (Belfast, Coleraine, Jordanstown and Magee), Ulster University has a for its students to do around Christmastime. If you’re a student in Belfast, be sure to visit the Belfast Christmas market, or try some Shortcrust Christmas cocktails in the distillery.

10. University of St Andrews, Sheffield Hallam: 12 days

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The two UK universities that have the shortest Christmas holiday breaks are the University of St Andrews and Sheffield Hallam, with students having only 12 days off at Christmas! Despite not having much time around the festive season, 12 days is more than enough time to stuff yourself with mince pies and enjoy some mulled wine. University of St Andrews students should wrap up warm as they enjoy the festivities, such as the university’s annual Alumni Carol Service, as it’s bound to be chilly up in Scotland at Christmas.

Ever thought about doing a semester, or even better, your whole studies abroad? Why not consider Switzerland as your destination? The country is not only known for good chocolate, delicious cheese and excellent watches but also for having some of the best universities in the world.

Here are some reasons you should consider Switzerland for studying abroad:

Why Switzerland?

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The economy: Switzerland might not be the first country that comes to your mind when you think about studying abroad. However, it offers many benefits most people don’t even know about. Even though it is a small country with only around eight million inhabitants, it still has one of the most stable and powerful economies worldwide.

The education system: It doesn’t stop with the economy; Switzerland’s education system is also known to be one of the best in the world. This is reflected by the many Nobel prizes the Swiss have earned over the past century, especially in the areas of physics, chemistry and physiology.

The people: Swiss people might come off as distant and a bit cold at first, but when you get closer to them, you’ll realize that they are a very nice and polite nation who will always offer you a helping hand.

The safety:  A bonus for your parents is that they won’t have sleepless nights during your studies, because Switzerland is a very safe country with very low crime rates. So you can enjoy the student life to the fullest, without being too worried on your way back home after a great night out.

The nature: With the Alps on your doorstep, your free time will never be boring. The breathtaking landscapes basically demand to be explored. So buckle up and do some trips into the numerous mountains, cycle along the many rivers and lakes and get lost in the scenery.

The heart of Europe: Being located in the middle of Europe, surrounded by Germany, France, Italy, Liechtenstein and Austria, it offers a great position to travel around Europe. 

The university system and studying

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Now that you’ve got a short insight into Switzerland, we’ll go into depth with the most important part of this article: university.

University study is part of a long tradition in Switzerland, with its first university being established in 1460 in Basel. There are a few different kinds of universities you can choose from:

1. Regular university, where you get the basic university experience.
2. University of applied science/arts, which offer more experience-oriented studies.
3. University of teacher education, specifically dedicated to people who study lectureship.

Depending on the type of university, the requirements to get in are different. Getting into a regular university, for example, can be harder than the university of applied science. In order to be able to study at a Swiss institution you need an equivalent to the Swiss “Matura”, which is a general higher education entrance qualification. However, each university has the right to decide their terms on their own. In some cases universities require you to do an entrance test before you get accepted in case your school certificate is not enough.

Switzerland offers over 3,000 degree programs with 700 in English, so you don’t need to worry about possible limitations. You can study almost everything with a few exceptions, for example medicine, for which you need special requirements.

If you're thinking about doing your masters in Switzerland, you need to have a bachelors in order to be accepted. In some cases the universities require a CV and motivational letter to make their decision.

Due to being well financed the universities are very well equipped and therefore guarantee a good study experience. In return, they expect a lot of their students. The university system is strict with many deadlines, so forget about leaning back and floating through the semester... be prepared to work hard!

Life in Switzerland: costs and funding

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Let’s talk about the not so fun part of living in Switzerland...unfortunately, living there is pretty expensive. Cities like Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Bern count amongst the most expensive places in Europe.

Depending on if you live in a dormitory, shared apartment or on your own, rent prices vary, but to save money it’s best to look for places outside of the city and commute to your university. As Switzerland has a very good bus, train and tram system it will be no problem to get there.

The costs of grocery shopping is higher compared to the other countries in Europe as well. For example, it is 20 to 30 percent more expensive compared to neighboring Germany. The bill when going out to eat can surprise you even more, as it is even higher than what you pay for buying groceries.

Compared to some other countries like the USA or the UK, the yearly costs of universities in Switzerland will not leave you in debt. The fees of each university can vary and are decided by the responsible canton; however they generally range between 800 and 1,500 CHF per semester (around US$800 to US$1,500).

So how can you afford living and studying in Switzerland? First of all, you can check with your home university to see if there is any sponsorship or funding you can make use of.

Of course, there is always the option to look for a student job and work for a few hours during the week. International students are allowed to work for 15 hours per week during the semester and even full time during the semester break. The payment is very generous as well, so with a pay between 25-35 CHF per hour (US$25-35), you’ll have a better chance of surviving your time in Switzerland.

So what are you waiting for? Follow the call of the Swiss Alps and the smell of chocolate and cheese, you won’t regret it!

The festive season is officially upon us. Christmas lights are brightening up our high streets, German markets have bratwurst and mulled wine at the ready and the John Lewis advert has been released. How better to embrace the Christmas spirit than with an evening of ice skating before warming up with a cup of hot chocolate? Here are eight places you can do that around the UK this winter.

Sky Light Rooftop, London

Step away from the crowds and onto this rooftop where you’ll find one of London’s best-kept winter secrets. Hidden away in Wapping’s Tobacco Docks, Sky Light Rooftop offers visitors the chance to whizz around on an all-natural ice rink whilst admiring London’s skyline. Afterwards, reward your hard work with a seasonal cocktail or comforting mulled wine inside one of the extremely instagrammable rooftop igloos.

When: 31st October 2019 to 25th January 2020

Eden Project, Cornwall

Whilst not strictly outdoors, this ice-skating rink sits under the famous Biomes of the Eden Project and is undoubtedly a unique experience. Surrounded by seasonal greenery and adorned with festive lights, this feels like an outdoor skating experience without the bitterly cold English weather. For less confident skaters, the Eden Project offers ice-skating classes at select times during the weekend.

When: 12th October 2019 to 23rd February 2020

City Hall Lawn, Cardiff

Cardiff’s new ice-skating feature is set to attract thousands of visitors this year. Along with the city’s usual ice rink, which can accommodate 300 visitors, Cardiff is pioneering the UK's longest outdoor Alpine Ice Trail. The newly added entertainment area will see Gorsedd Gardens decorated with a huge Christmas tree, Big Wheel and a two-storey alpine bar – everything you could possibly need for that festive feeling!

When: 8th November 2019 to 5th January 2020

Royal Pavilion, Brighton

Powered solely by wind and solar energy, Brighton’s outdoor ice-rink is considered to be the eco-friendliest rink in the UK. Everything from its twinkling fairy lights to its booming sound system has been curated with the environment in mind. As well as a guilt-free trip, visitors will be treated to prime views of the spectacular Royal Pavilion along with a convenient bar and kitchen area, the perfect place to warm up after a chilly skating session.

When: 2nd November 2019 to 19th January 2020

Ice Village, Manchester

Manchester’s Ice Village is returning with a bang this year! Not only are the usual suspects making a comeback, such as the ice-skating rink and Santa’s grotto, but this year visitors can marvel at impressive ice sculptures in the ice cavern or grab a drink in Manchester’s first and only Ice Bar. It sure is to be one of those ‘now it feels like Christmas’ moments.

When: 8th November 2019 to 5th January 2020

Ice Skate, Birmingham

Sitting outside the iconic Library of Birmingham, the city’s outdoor ice rink can be experienced in all weather, thanks to the installation of a new weatherproof canopy. The ever-popular Big Wheel returns offering riders a fantastic bird’s eye view of the ice rink and nearby German Christmas Market. Huge crowds are expected, so consider an early morning skate to enjoy the rink in all its glory.

When: 7th November 2019 to 12th January 2020

Somerset House, London

Somerset House is by far one of the most popular ice rinks in the UK, attracting millions of visitors from far and near every single year. Set in the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Courtyard and sponsored by Fortnum and Mason, the decorations are elaborate, the backdrop quintessentially British and the glühwein is to die for. With a series of events running through the festive season, from Skate Late parties to skating all-nighters, you’ll find an excuse to visit every single night of the week.

When: 13th November 2019 to 12th January 2020

Aberdeen Christmas Market, Aberdeen

Aberdeen’s short but sweet residency of its outdoor ice rink can be found smack bang in the middle of the city’s Christmas Market. Enjoy the grandeur of the historic Marischal College in the background as you glide around this picturesque ice rink, surrounded by alpine cabins selling plenty of festive foods and drinks.

When: 21st November to 31st December 2019