Starting university: Sam and Lillie's tips

Starting something new, like university, is a big step and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Whether you’re counting down the days or feeling a little overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Sam and Lillie know how you’re feeling as they begin their fourth and final year of training as Newly Qualified Nannies (NQNs).

As the Head and Deputy Head of Set 146, Sam and Lillie offer invaluable advice to new students on topics ranging from what to pack to how to make the most of your student life in Bath.

1. Top tips for preparing for enrolment at Norland

Sam: Try to gain some work experience with children of different ages, and read the guides that Norland provide regarding academic and practical work and resources.

Lillie: Reach out to current students – don’t be afraid to message students on the Chat to Students app for advice. They’ve been where you are and can answer any questions you have. Connect with your set by joining the Facebook group or similar to start chatting with people who’ll be in your year. It’s a great way to make those first friendships. Sort your uniform: order and label everything, and try it on so you know it all fits and feels comfortable. Finally, get organised for lectures – research note-taking apps or software (like Notion, OneNote or GoodNotes) to find one that suits your style.

A male and a female Norland student standing at a plinth speaking into a microphone

2. Top uniform tips. How do I get my hair in a bun?!

Sam: My top tips are to iron shirts, make sure you have plain black socks, wear shoes in before and have blister plasters to hand, as there is usually lots of walking in Welcome Week. Two pairs of trousers is about right and it is worth buying plenty of shirts and polos.

Lillie: My bun go-to routine: First, use tight-grip hairbands to put your hair into a low ponytail. Then, twist or plait the ponytail into a bun and secure it with another hairband. Pop a hairnet and scrunchie over the bun to hold it in place. Finally, smooth back any flyaways with hairspray (unless you’re working with babies). This method keeps my hair neat all day!

3. What would you have done differently three years ago as you prepared to start university?

Sam: I would have enquired about sports clubs and facilities in Bath before starting, and the same goes for other interests. This can help you to be up and ready to go before actually starting.

Lillie: Stop overthinking and enjoy the moment! Norland goes by so quickly – you’ll blink and it’ll be time for your NQN year. Say yes to plans, explore Bath and meet as many new people as you can.

female Norland student adjusting hat in garden

4. Top tips for packing. What items do you recommend bringing or leaving at home?

Sam: Check what your accommodation provides before buying too much, but be prepared to buy your own cutlery, as landlords often seem to prefer you using your own. I would recommend taking a comfy pillow and things to brighten up your room such as photos and decorations.

Lillie: Bring a few home comforts (bedding, photos, fairy lights) to make your room cosy, but also have fun buying new decor to mark the start of your new chapter. Don’t forget HANGERS (I forgot and had to rush out to buy them!). Pack seasonal clothing: bring winter clothes first, then swap to summer clothes at Easter – you won’t have space for everything. Top hack: Use Pinterest for student packing lists and tick items off as you go.

5. Top tips for leaving home and making new friends

Sam: Make time to call home and video chat! Set dates for visits home so that you know when you will be seeing your family and friends. Have pictures of family and friends and things that remind you of home. Try to step outside of your comfort zone to meet new people at Norland and outside – enjoy getting to know a new city with new people!

Lillie: Spend quality time with family and friends before you leave. While planning a visit home can help ease homesickness, consider asking loved ones to visit you in Bath rather than you going home. Going home too soon can make it harder to settle. Keep in touch with regular calls or video chats, but push yourself to meet new people. Everyone’s in the same boat!

A male at a desk in his bedroom smiling at someone behind him

6. Top tips for managing your money during your studies

Sam: Make the most of working in the holidays, particularly in the summer. There are plenty of jobs through the Norland Job Shop and occasionally from placements. Be realistic as to what you will be able to do and don’t oversubscribe – allow time for studies and socialising. It will feel busy while on placement in particular, and there are times when deadlines come thick and fast.

Lillie: Create a termly budget. Figure out your weekly spending and leave room for treats and socialising – it’s an important part of the experience! Don’t stress about saving money; there’s plenty of time for that after Norland. Find part-time work via Marvellous Babysitting, Norland’s Job Shop or Indeed – this is a great way to earn extra cash and get experience.

7. What practical essentials would you recommend setting up before you leave home?

Sam: Apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans provide student discounts, so have a look into these and others that you may have heard of.

Lillie: Make sure you have a student bank account – research the best deals, which are usually released in August. Register with a GP and pharmacy near your accommodation. Don’t get a travel card just yet, as Norland will help with placement travel costs. Consider registering for a postal vote if you’re moving far from home.

A Norland student holding a baby smiling

8. Top tips for making the most of your first weeks at Norland

Sam: Get stuck in! Speak to lots of people in your set but also in the sets above. Be confident to try new things and join Norland or Bath Spa societies. Have a look to see what is around in Bath and visit the parks and city centre. Try to make friends with housemates – maybe cook together or go for house walks or shopping for food – and don’t be afraid to chat to people.

Lillie: Be proactive. Make plans with housemates and go to social events, especially the reps’ socials, which are a great way to meet people from other sets. Explore Bath together: shops, cafes, parks, gyms, restaurants. Don’t worry if you’re not best friends with your housemates straight away; friendships often build over time, and there are plenty of other students to meet.

9. Top tips for living in Bath and making the most of your free time

Sam: Bath is a beautiful city – do lots of exploring to get your bearings. Find things to do that you enjoy. Be organised and try new things, and see if housemates or friends are willing to try something new with you.

Lillie: Eat your way around Bath. My top favourites are Coppa Club, Solina’s, Taylor’s Bagels, Bosco Pizzeria and WatchHouse. Explore the outdoors – Newton St Loe and Alexandra Park are perfect for a walk, and Bath on the Beach in summer is so much fun.

10. What are your top three things to do in Bath in your free time?

Sam: As well as swimming for Bath Dolphins, my favourite things to do in Bath include spending time at the Royal Crescent, throwing a ball around with friends and exploring the local area. I also love going to Knoops for hot chocolate with friends and housemates, and making friends both inside and outside of Norland.

Lillie: My top three favourite things to do in Bath are gym sessions at PureGym Victoria Park, catching up with friends over food at new restaurants, and weekend walks into town for coffee and pastry.

Wishing you all the best with your first year! Sam and Lillie, Set 46