Predeparture Cape Town LS 2012

Table mountain National Park

Sea Point

Green PointAtlantic Ocean

Clifton

Camps Bay

Green Point Stadium

Two Oceans Aquarium

Cape Town Railway Station

Signal Hill

Lions Head

Surf Road

Table Mountain Cable Way

South Africa National Gallery

Molteno Reservoir

Cape PeninsulaUniversity ofTechnology

Castle of Good Hope

Town Hall

www.ef.comImportant Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.

LanguageCourses AbroadFor adults and students aged 16 & above

EF International Language Centers

Accreditations and Memberships

The EF International Lan-guage Centers in London,

Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol

and Bournemouth are:

EF Dublin is accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers

in the USA are members of:

The EF Interna-tional Language

Centers in the USA are accredited by:


in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are accredited by:

EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qual-ité Français Langue

Etrangère.

EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited by Languages Canada.

All EF Courses are certified by Southern

New Hampshire University.

EF Education is an active participant in

the Comité Européen de Normalisation.


in Brisbane and Perth are

members of:

The EF International Language Centers in

Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are

accredited by:

The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge,

Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are

members of:

All EF Courses are recognized by Hult

International Business School.

Federation of International Youth

Travel Organizations.

EF Cape Town

Cape TownOften rated one of the most beautiful cities in the

world, Cape Town is a diverse mix of culture, nature

and modern big city life. Let EF help you learn

English between beaches, mountains and the lively

centre of Cape Town.

Contact details:EF International School of English, Cape Town89 Kloof Street, Cape Town, 8001, R.S.A. Tel: +27 214247460

Watch a video

Or visit us atFacebook.com/EFCapeTown

Section Topic

1 .........Introduction to EF

2 .........Welcome to South Africa

3 .........Weather watch

4 .........Travel & transfer service

5 .........School information

6 .........Academics

7 .........Accommodation & meals

8 .........Money matters

9 .........Phones, faxes & Internet

10 .......Health care & insurance

11 .......School activities & excursions

12 .......Transportation

13 .......Expectations

14 .......Culture & living tips

15 .......Adjusting to a new culture

16 .......EF school calendar & holidays

17 .......Checklist

Contents - Cape Town

Dear Student

Thank you for choosing to study English in Cape Town. You have made an exciting decision to study in a location where the possibilities are endless – outdoor adventure, cultural diversity and international flair will shape your English language studies here with us.

Warmed by the African sun 300 days of the year, Cape Town is renowned for its welcoming hospitality. Whether you enjoy the rocky scene, valley settings or the splendor of the ocean, this is the place to be! With activities ranging from scenic hiking trails in the mountains, safaris, horse rides, sunbathing on white beaches to shopping – we look forward to providing you with the most fabulous experience ever!

With an experienced team of administrative and aca-demic staff, EF Cape Town is ready to welcome you to our first school on the African continent! The school is situated in the trendiest area of Cape Town, Gardens, in a fabulous renovated building that boasts views of Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Close to many of the city’s major attractions, and boasting a wide variety of accommodation options such as homestays, resi-dences and self-catering apartments, you’ll feel right at home in our lovely city!

We can’t wait to welcome you to EF Cape Town!

Best wishes,Anka Stenten, School DirectorEF International Language Center, Cape Town

3 Cape Town, South Africa

2. Welcome to South AfricaWelcome to the Rainbow Nation! Congratula-

tions on choosing one of the most beautiful and

culturally diverse countries to study in!

The Cape of South Africa is believed to have

been the first place inhabited by humans over

42,000 years ago. South Africa has emerged

from a long troubled history of oppression and

apartheid to become a proud cosmopolitan

nation; uniting European and African influences

and traditions.

South Africa was discovered by the Portugese,

colonised by the British and later became an

industrial centre for the Dutch. South Africa

gained independence in 1910, when only the

rights of white people were recognised. Apart-

heid laws were imposed in 1948, and were only

lifted in 1994, following the release of Nelson

Mandela four years earlier.

South Africa encompasses a variety of ethnic

groups, producing a rich culture and cuisine.

It is said that one may eat out twice a day for

upwards of five years and never have the same

menu twice. There are 13 recognised languages;

English is the common language, but many South

Africans also speak one of the 11 African dialects

or Afrikaans; a language derived from Dutch.

The landscape is as diverse as its people; South

Africa boasts mountains, a spectacular coast,

wine lands and natural reserves, home to ‘the

big five’: the elephant, the lion, the leopard, the

rhinoceros and the wilderbees. If you need to re-

member them, just check your bank notes! South

Africa has great rural areas as well as sprawling

cities, such as the capital, Johannesburg.

South Africans are sports fanatics and are

fiercely proud of their national teams; whether

it is cricket, rugby, or football. South Africans

have already begun preparations for the 2010

World Cup and are extremely excited about

proving their reputation as a warm-hearted,

hospitable country in welcoming the rest of the

world. While studying in South Africa, you will

have the opportunity to experience the varied

historical, cultural and vibrant ways of life.

Whatever your expectations, South Africa is

sure to surpass them.

3. Weather WatchSituated in southwestern South Africa, the climate

is generally Mediterranean. Cape Town is said to

offer 300 days of sunshine a year. The summer

months tend to be fairly warm and dry. Winters are

usually relatively cool and wet.

Temperatures range from:

Spring: 9° to 24°C (48° to 75°F)

Summer: 16° to 28°C (61° to 82°F)

Autumn: 8° to 23°C (46° to 73°F)

Winter: 6° to 19°C (43° to 66°F)

4. Travel & Transfer Transfer service

Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be

confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service

from the airport to your accommodation for an

additional fee. We highly recommend that you

take advantage of this service.

At least one month before your arrival, you

must inform the EF Office in your home country

or your homestay hosts of the exact details of

your flight (airline, flight number, date and time).

This will help avoid your homestay hosts wait-

ing all day for you to arrive or them not being

home when you arrive.

When you arrive, pass through customs and wait

at the arrival area for an EF Representative to

meet you. Do not go to another part of the airport

unless an EF staff member tells you to. If after ap-

proximately 30 minutes you have still not met with

your greeter, go to the information desk to ask for

help or call the EF school emergency number for

assistance. You will receive this number along with

other important contact informtation from your EF

Sales Office prior to departure.

We would ask you to be extra vigilant on arrival

at the airport, as some taxi services might pose

as EF transfers and drive students to their des-

1. Introduction to EFEF Education First welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language where it is natively spoken. Our innovative curriculum, the EF Efekta™ System, integrates face-to-face learning in a classroom with studying outside the classroom using the interactive learn-ing tools in our online iLab. An intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activities results in a fast and fun way to learn a language.

EF students come from diverse back-grounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for years to take advantage of this opportunity.

A large percentage of EF students apply their new language skills by taking a recog-nized exam, such as Cambridge, TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS. Successful completion of such exams provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavors. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives while im-proving language and study skills. Students wishing to study at university can access information and make informed academic choices through our EF University Place-ment Service.

A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international com-munity where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.


tination and then charge them for the transfer

telling them that they can then claim this

money back from the school. This is not true,

so please make sure that you do not go with

any driver who is not holding an EF sign.

If you are travelling to Cape Town via Johan-

nesburg, you will need to collect your baggage

at Johannesburg and go through customs and

immigration before proceeding to check in at

Domestic Departures for your onward flight.

5. School InformationThe School Director is assisted by an accom-

plished staff of teachers and administrators. There

is also an Activities Coordinator who organises EF

activities and excursions.

The school offers the following facilities:

❚ iLabs for classes and self study

❚ Wireless Internet throughout the building and

courtyard for personal laptop computer use

❚ Student Lounge with TV

❚ Cafeteria

❚ Payphone

❚ Fax

❚ Noticeboards to tell you what is happening

6. AcademicsEF language courses give students the opportu-

nity to study the English language and the local

culture for as long, and with as much intensity,

as suits the student and his or her needs.

EF Level Placement Test

Within 24-hours after booking your course,

you’ll receive your personalized EF username

and password for the online EF campus called

My EF. Before traveling, you will take the EF

Level Placement test online. This test will mea-

sure your language level and ability, grammar

and listening comprehension abilities. Using

your test results, our academic team will place

you in one of six different language levels.

As your English language skills become stron-

ger, you will be promoted into the next language

level. You may speak with your teacher if you

feel you have been placed into the wrong level.

Orientation

When you arrive at the school you will take

the EF Level Placement test, if you have not

done so already. During your orientation you

will receive your class schedule and other

important information about the school and

the city. Fun activities are planned to help you

meet students and staff.

General English Classes

General English classes focus on the develop-

ment of the four skills of speaking, listening,

reading and writing. They also include work on

grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. Each

lesson is 40 minutes in length.

Special Interest Classes

Depending on your course type you may also

select a number of special interest (SPIN)

classes. SPINs allow you to improve your

English through the study of a wide range of

subject options. Admission to some of these

will depend on academic and linguistic level

and availability of places. The selection of SPIN

classes varies throughout the year and a stu-

dent may not be able to repeat the same SPIN

class. Each lesson is 40 minutes in length

and two lessons may be combined into one

80-minute teaching period.

Class size

The average class size is 15 students with a

maximum of 17 students.

Class Schedule

EF Cape Town’s school is open five days per

week, Monday to Friday. Classes will be sched-

uled between 8.30 am and 6:30 pm and you will

have a combination of morning and afternoon

classes.

Attendance

You are expected to attend all classes.

Consistent failure to attend class, for what-

ever reason, may result in expulsion from the

program with no refund of course fees. In order

to be eligible for an EF certificate, students

are expected to participate in class and must

attend at least 80% of all classes.

Please note: South African immigration regula-

tions require you to attend 80% of all your classes!

Homework

You are expected to complete all assignments

set by your teachers in General English and

Special Interest classes. If you are taking an

examination preparation class you should ex-

pect at least one hour of homework per night.

Assessment

You will be assessed at regular intervals through-

out the course. Assessment is based on atten-

dance, participation, attitude and performance.

Course books

As part of your academic program, you’ll be

expected to buy the books and classroom

materials that you will use in class. The exact

number of books that you’ll need is determined

by your academic level, progress and choice of

special interest classes. If you wish to buy ad-

ditional books you may need more money. The

books you buy are yours to keep, write in and

take home with you for future reference.

iLab Learning

All English language school courses include six

iLab sessions per week. iLab sessions comple-

ment and reinforce classroom learning in an inter-

active online learning environment. Please note:

iLab is not included in the EF Basic Course.

Exams

You may enroll for any one of a number of pub-

lic examinations while you are on your course.

Cambridge and TOEFL exams are all popular

with students and are available at EF Cape

Town*. These can be taken at EF Cape Town

and booked several months in advance. You

will need to pay fees to register for public ex-

ams in South Africa. This is typically R1500 for

each exam. Advice as to the most appropriate

examination to sit will be given to you by your

Director of Studies.

* EF Cape Town is the official test centre for iBT

TOEFL and the University of Cambridge ESOL

Examinations.

Cancellation of course or school transfer

If you decide to downgrade, cancel or transfer

your course to another EF school, please talk

to our Customer Support team. They will advise

you of any transfer charges and visa restrictions.

EF University Placement Service

EF offers a University Placement Service (UPS)

that provides guaranteed admission into a

university or college for qualified students. If

you are interested in continuing your studies,


you are encouraged to talk with the University

Pathways Manager at your school.

University Transfer Credit

Through our partnership with Southern New

Hampshire University (SNHU), EF students

may be eligible to receive university credit for

their coursework.

7. Accommodation & MealsHomestay and student residence accom-

modations are available at the EF Cape Town

school. All homestay and student residence

issues during your stay should be directed to

the Accommodation Coordinator.

Homestay accommodation

Students staying in a homestay will have the

opportunity to experience South African life

and also have the chance to practice their new

language skills with fluent English speakers.

Students who choose homestay accommoda-

tion should do so because they want to live

in a family environment and interact with the

family members. Families choose to host inter-

national students because they want to learn

about other cultures and people.

Students who live in a homestay must respect

the family and their home. Likewise, the family

will respect the student. As you get an in-

depth look at the South African way of life, you

will realize that the South African culture is not

the same as your culture, and therefore, family

life may be quite different. The relationship

between husband and wife, the roles of family

members, the relationship with or discipline of

children and the relationship with pets are just

some examples. If you are open-minded about

these differences, life in the family will be a

great learning experience.

There is no stereotypical family. Hosts may

consist of 1) mother and father without chil-

dren, 2) single mother with children, 3) mother,

father and children, 4) retired couple, 5) wid-

owed woman, or 6) single father with children.

You are responsible for all transportation costs

to and from the host’s home. You may be

placed up to one hour away from the school.

Before you leave your home country, please

let your homestay hosts know the date and

estimated time of your arrival at their home.

If you do not do this, they may not be home

when you arrive.

Laundry and Facilities

Your bed sheets and towels will be changed

once a week, but you will be responsible for

your own laundry and keeping your room tidy.

If you want your hosts to wash your clothes for

you, there will usually be a charge of approxi-

mately R50 – R60.

You are responsible for your personal items such

as shampoo, conditioner, soap and other items.

You will probably share the bathroom with oth-

ers. This means that you may need to be flexible

about shower and bath times. If you want to take

a long time in the bath or shower check to see

that nobody else is waiting to use the bathroom.

Accommodation in a homestay includes a bed

and a shared bathroom. Unless you have paid

the single supplement and a single placement

has been confirmed to you by EF, you will be

placed in a double room with another student.

Always remember to keep your room clean

and tidy. Make your bed, and put your belong-

ings away. You are also responsible for clean-

ing up after snacks and for washing your own

dishes after breakfast. It is also polite to help

clear the table after dinner.

Transporation to the school

You are responsible for all transportation costs

to and from the host’s home. Your average travel

time from your homestay to the school will vary.

This will be confirmed prior to your departure, but

will not be more than one hour.

Telephone and Internet use

To call your friends and family you will need to

use a prepaid telephone card, which is available

at the EF school. Your family can telephone you,

but please ask them not to call too late. Remem-

ber that you are sharing the telephone with the

rest of the people in the home. Do not spend

more than 15 minutes on the phone at any time.

Smoking

If you are a smoker, please ask your hosts

where you can smoke. Remember that smok-

ing in public places is prohibited.

Requests for change

Homestay accommodation is booked for your

entire course. You may only change homestays

for very serious reasons and with the approval

of the Homestay Accommodation Manager.

The homestay hosts and EF staff should

receive at least a one-week notice about your

move. Requests for change will be considered

on an individual basis and Terms & Conditions

apply when a move is approved. The Homestay

Accommodation Manager will advise you about

these on a case by case basis. No refunds will

be granted for students who choose to leave

their homestay for personal reasons.

Meals in a homestay

Your homestay hosts provide breakfast and

dinner Monday through Friday and breakfast,


packed lunch, and dinner on the weekends.

You will eat dinner with your hosts at their set

meal time. Meals will only be provided when

you are home to participate. Please be sure to

call your hosts if you are going to be late or if

you are not going to be home for a meal. There

will be no refund for meals not taken at home

with your family. There are many fashionable

cafes near our school, where you can eat lunch at

affordable prices.

Residence Deposit

If you opt to live in our student residence you

should be aware that you will need to pay a

deposit upon arrival of R1000. This deposit

covers such things as lost keys, damage or

fines. Any deductions from this deposit will

be notified to you at the time. If there are no

deductions made the whole amount will be

refunded at the end of your programme.

8. Money MattersSpending money

We recommend that you bring about R1000 for

your first days in South Africa to cover costs such

as travel to school, lunch, and telephone calls.

We recommend that you bring R750-R1000

for every week you plan to stay in South Africa.

This should cover lunches, laundry, travel to

and from school, and EF Activities mid-week.

For weekend excursions, shopping and pres-

ents you will need more! Only carry as much

money as you need for one day – remember

thieves exist everywhere in the world! The saf-

est way to carry money is traveller’s cheques.

Many places also accept major credit cards.

You will also need to take money for learning

materials used in class and for any language

proficiency exams you plan to take.

Money cannot be changed at the school, but

please ask staff where you are able to change

money or traveller’s cheques.

Credit cards

We strongly recommend that students travel with

either a Visa or MasterCard. Credit cards enable

you to rent cars, reserve hotel rooms, and do

various activities, which may be more difficult with

cash or traveller’s cheques.

9. Telephones, fax & InternetTelephone

All long distance calls must be collect calls,

charged to the person you are calling, or

charged to a prepaid telephone card, which you

can purchase from the EF school.

Fax

All EF schools use fax machines to conduct

business. You can send and receive faxes from

this machine for a small fee, although you are

encouraged to limit the use.

Internet

The school is equipped with Wi-Fi wireless

Internet. Students are highly encouraged to

bring their personal laptop computers for email

and Internet use on the wireless network.

10. Health Care & InsuranceAll students must have insurance coverage for ac-

cidents and illness while they are in South Africa.

The EF office can arrange health insurance for

you before you leave. You will still have to pay for

some treatment but please remember to keep all

receipts and you can claim the money back from

the Insurance Company. Read your insurance

policy document carefully before you leave home

and bring all relevant documents with you when

you come to South Africa.

We strongly advise you to take out the EF recom-

mended insurance, before you leave, as this will

cover you for accidents, illness, travel and bag-

gage. Again, the EF office staff in your country can

help you with this before you leave. If you have any

personal problems there is always someone who

you can talk to confidentially.

Erika Travel Insurance

Because security is EF’s number one priority, we

have negotiated a comprehensive tailor-made

travel insurance package for EF students with

Erika Travel Insurance, an international insur-

ance expert. The policy protects you against ex-

penses incurred through accident or illness, and

provides coverage for loss or theft of baggage

and personal effects. It also provides coverage

against interruption of your EF program due to

illness as well as liability and legal expenses.

The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika

Travel Insurance questions and claims. When

you are sick or injured the last thing you want

to do is deal with such issues. Let us help you!

11. Activities & ExcursionsExtracurricular activities contribute greatly to your

social and academic success. They not only

help you to relax after a day studying, they also

provide you with an opportunity to meet and

make friends from other classes, other countries

and other cultures. Your school’s activities and

trips give you the opportunity to apply your life

skills, practice English in real situations and famil-

iarize yourself with the South African culture.

Activity programme

The EF Activities Coordinator arranges a regular

schedule of local activities, day trips, and weekend

excursions to area attractions.

Weekly activities

We have a weekly programme of activities ranging

from cultural visits to museums, sightseeing to

famous Cape Town attractions, theatre trips and

other local events & festivals. Many of these are

either free activities or at reduced discount rates.

Weekend excursions

EF arranges weekend excursions and day trips

to local attractions. Not all trips are available each

month. The number of trips and the cost depend

on the time of year and the number of students

wishing to participate. Excursions can be paid in

cash or with traveller’s cheques.

Typical Activities and Excursions

Excursions could range from day trips to Rob-

ben Island, Table Mountain or the Winelands to

weekend trips to Safari Game Lodges, Sun City

or Johannesburg. Our excursions are organised

at a minimum cost, are great fun and extremely

good value. You are always accompanied by an

EF member of staff.

Sample Cape Town activities schedule

Please note that these activities may differ from

those on offer during your stay here with us.

Monday

Walking tour of Cape Town for all new stu-

dents. Then meet other international students

at the EF Welcome Party.

Tuesday

Join us for a game of volleyball on the beach,


or enjoy a game of mini-golf; one of South

Africa’s favourite pastimes.

Wednesday

Visit Robben Island, and see where Nelson

Mandela was imprisoned for part of the 28

years he spent in prison. Visit one of the many

cinemas as well as one of Cape Town’s film

production companies.

Thursday

An unforgettable sunset drive along the coast

of Cape Town. Come clubbing with us in one of

Cape Town’s coolest nightclubs on Long Street.

Friday

Come and play football with us at a local park.

Saturday

A day of wildlife! Come and see the penguins

at Boulder Beach, do some whale watching or

go on a full day Safari!

Sunday

A visit to the magnificent winelands of the Cape

Town area, taking in the town of Stellenbosch.

Let us help you have fun!

Parties, club nights and pub visits are held on

a regular basis as well as going to theatres,

musicals & TV shows. The city has a wide range

of activities, so whatever your interests are, the EF

Activities Officer is more than happy to help. We

will organise anything of interest – just let us know

what you would like to do. Our staff will keep you

informed about what’s going on and show you the

most happening places of the time.

12. TransportationBuses

Cape Town has an extensive network of local

public bus transport, which serves most areas

of the city. These are a relatively inexpensive

way to travel around.

Trains

Cape Town’s Metro Rail service is a popular way

of getting to and from the city’s suburban dis-

tricts and beaches. As well as being convenient,

the line running to Simon’s Town offers more

beautiful scenery than most urban networks,

with the track closely following the coastline.

13. ExpectationsExpectations are a normal part of anticipating a

new experience. We understand that everyone

has their own individual beliefs and anticipa-

tions, however we ask you to come with an

open mind.

What you can expect from EF:

❚ Supportive staff, available for guidance and

encouragement.

❚ An academic program which combines lan-

guage, special interest, and culture-oriented

classes.

❚ Full program of local activities and excursions

at special EF rates.

❚ Accommodation in either homestay or stu-

dent residence.

❚ All designated meals.

❚ EF Academic Year Abroad Diploma for

Academic Year Abroad students with 80%

attendance per term and good academic

standing and academic records

❚ EF Course Certificate for International Lan-

guage Students with 80% attendance and

good academic standing.

❚ Preparation classes and/or materials for appro-

priate standardized language exams and avail-

ability of University Placement Service (UPS).

What EF expects of you:

❚ To develop a greater understanding of the

world around you.

❚ To attend at least 80% of all classes and to

do your best in class at all times.

❚ To be respectful of your homestay hosts, your

classmates, your teachers and your community.

❚ To keep your room and shared areas clean.

❚ To speak English at all times.

❚ To abide by all laws, rules and regulations of

your host country, state, campus and school.

What you can expect from your homestay hosts:

❚ A comfortable, clean place to live.

❚ Prepared meals or accessibility to food to

prepare yourself according to the meal plan.

❚ Access to the school in approximately one

hour by public transportation. All transporta-

tion costs are your responsibility.

14. South African culture & living tipsDos and Don’ts

You will be required to abide by national laws as

well as the rules of the EF school. Violations will

lead to a verbal warning and possible disciplinary

action by the School Director.

The following are illegal in South Africa:

❚ Drugs (non-medicinal)

❚ Alcohol if you are under 18 years old

❚ Buying tobacco if you are under 16 (or buying

for someone who is under 16)

❚ Shop-lifting

❚ Driving without insurance or a valid

driving license

❚ Offensive weapons (including pocket knives)

Please don’t break the law. If you do, you will

almost certainly be sent straight home on the next

available flight and you may even risk being sent

to prison.

Travel outside of South Africa

It is strongly recommended that you apply for all

types of visas required to visit surrounding African

countries prior to your departure. Your Activities

Staff will be able to assist you with further informa-

tion once you are at the school.

Appliances and electricity

Remember that the mains voltage in South Africa


is 220 – 230V. You may need to bring an adap-

tor if you wish to use any of your own electrical

appliances. South Africa uses a 15 amp round

pin 3 prong plug.

Tipping

Tipping is customary for taxi drivers and in res-

taurants where no service charge is added to the

bill. 15% is normally acceptable. In restaurants,

bars, pubs and cafes where service is included

there is no need to leave a tip.

Recommended reading

Rough Guide, Lonely Planet and Time Out

Guide to Cape Town are all great guides for

where to go, what to do, how to get around,

where to stay and what to eat.

Website reading

❚ http://www.cape-town.org

❚ http://www.capetourism.org

15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of

students who have come together to learn

English. It is also a multi-cultural group of

young adults who are eager to share their

own culture and learn the culture of their host

country and fellow classmates.

One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts,

traditions and practices of a specific community

or population. Our culture affects how we view

ourselves, how we relate to others and what we

value as important in life. We are often unaware

of how much our culture affects our lives.

You may have already had some exposure to the

new culture you are about to experience. You

may have seen television shows, read books, or

studied in school about South Africa. While some

parts of this culture may already seem familiar

to you, experiencing a new culture first-hand

will prove exciting. You will be meeting students

from all over the world who, like you, are looking

forward to spending a year learning and living a

language, both inside and outside the classroom.

As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience

periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are

uncomfortable. Culture shock is what some-

times happens when we try to meet challenges

of our new culture by using the values, beliefs,

and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to

a new culture, we must learn that cultural differ-

ences are merely different - not right or wrong.

Tips on coping with change

Remember that change does not come with-

out some effort! We humans need a certain

amount of stress to motivate us to learn new

ways of being. Learning always involves some

form of change. You should try the following:

❚ While you might be tempted to surround

yourself with things that are familiar to you, try

not to isolate yourself by being only with others

from your home country. Keep reaching out to

your host, roommates and other students.

❚ Put off making major decisions such as an

accommodation change, until you feel more

“at home” with the culture in general.

❚ Talk to us about your worries or problems.

EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to

know about any problem you may have so

that we can help you.

❚ Set goals, no matter how big or small, and

accomplish them! You will feel good about

yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the

negative feelings associated with culture

shock. For example, set a goal that you will

speak English at all times.

❚ Remind yourself that you came to this

country to experience a new culture, to meet

others and to explore your new surroundings.

Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on

the days before leaving your home country

when you were excited about your new ad-

venture. Try to refocus this former excitement

towards your experience.

Keeping a journal

One way to keep track of emotions and

changes that take place over the year is to

keep a journal. By recording your experiences

and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able

to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will

have a record of your academic and personal

progress to look back on in days and years to

come. Be sure to note changes in:

❚ Language skills

❚ School performance and involvement

❚ Campus/host adjustment

❚ Individual learning and growth

Keeping a journal will help to remind you that

culture shock is truly a temporary phase

of adjustment.

Bring pictures and Items from home

If you have room in your suitcases for some

music, a costume, pictures, or some typi-

cal crafts, it would be good to show other

students, as well as to decorate your room

to make it seem like home. We have seen

costumes and drums from Korea, dancing and

music from Austria and a piñata and tortillas

from Mexico. Please bring pictures of your

friends, family and surrounding area.

Important telephone numbers

16. EF School CalendarAcademic Year Schedule

The Academic Year is divided into three terms.

(See the applicable start date below for your

program’s specific term and break schedule).

January 2012

Academic Year and Semester Program

Orientation: Fri 6 Jan - Sun 8 Jan

Term 1: Mon 9 Jan - Fri 9 Mar

Holiday: Sat 10 Mar - Sun 25 Mar

Term 2: Mon 26 Mar - Fri 1 Jun

Semester Departure: 2 Jun 2012

Holiday: Sat 2 Jun - Sun 10 Jun

Term 3: (Year) Mon 11 Jun - Fri 17 Aug

Departure: 18 Aug 2012

April 2012


Orientation: Fri 13 Apr - Sun 15 Apr

Term 1: Mon 16 Apr - Fri 1 Jun


Term 2: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep

Semester Departure: 8 Sep 2012

Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep

Term 3: (Year) Mon 24 Sep - Fri 30 Nov

Departure: 1 Dec 2012

June 2012


Orientation: Fri 8 Jun - Sun 10 Jun

Term 1: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep

Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep

Term 2: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec

Semester Departure: 17 Nov 2012

Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan

Term 3: (Year) Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Feb

Departure: 9 Feb 2013

September 2012


Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep

Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec

Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan


Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013


Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May

Departure: 1 June 2013

January 2013


Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan



Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun

Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013


Term 3: (Year) Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug

Departure: 17 Aug 2013

Please note: there will be no classes on

public holidays.

School holidays

The EF International Language Center in Cape

Town recognizes the following public holidays

when there will be no classes. If your arrival

falls on one of these dates, please check with

the school staff upon your arrival for an exact

orientation schedule.

2012

2 January - for New Year’s Day

21 March - Human Rights Day

6 April - Good Friday

9 April - Family Day

27 April - Freedom Day

1 May - Workers Day

16 June - Youth Day

9-10 August - National Women’s Day

24 September - Heritage Day

16-17 December - Day of Reconciliation

25 December - Christmas Day

26 December - Day of Goodwill

2013

1 January - New Year’s Day

21-22 March - Human Rights Day

29 March - Good Friday



1 May - Workers Day

16-17 June - Youth Day

9 August - National Women’s Day


16 December - Day of Reconciliation



17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where neces-

sary) It’s a good idea to make copies of

these and pack them in your suitcase

just in case. You don’t need to carry your

passport with you while you are in South

Africa but you must keep it and your other

documents in a safe place while you are in

the country.

■ Valid ID card - It’s a good idea to make

copies of these and pack them in your

suitcase just in case.

■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student

identification cards, travel cards and other

possible documents

■ Flight ticket

■ Luggage correctly labeled

■ EF Confirmation letter & other

EF documents

■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,

especially the Health Certificate

■ Medical and travel insurance documents

■ Basic medical supplies, any medication

you take regularly and a spare pair of con-

tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.

■ An International Driving License if you are

planning on renting a car.

■ Local currency for first week and for any

learning materials that are not included in

the cost of the course.

■ Money in the form of cash and credit

cards – Visa and MasterCards are highly

accepted around the island. Do not bring

large amount of cash in any currency. (Do

NOT bring large amounts of cash in any

currency!).

■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-

ances you plan to bring with you.

■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.

■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.

■ Personal sports equipment.

■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.

■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.

Homestay host’s or student residence name:

________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence address:

________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):

________________________________________

EF Sales Office telephone number:

________________________________________

EF School telephone number:

+27 214247460________________________________________

EF School emergency telephone number:

+27 769050923________________________________________

Important telephone numbers

C

hec

klis

t

16. EF school calendar & holidaysSchool holidays

The EF International Language Center in Cape

Town recognizes the following public holidays

when there will be no classes. If your arrival

falls on one of these dates, please check with

the school staff upon your arrival for an exact

orientation schedule.

2012

2 January - for New Year’s Day

21 March - Human Rights Day

6 April - Good Friday



1 May - Workers Day

16 June - Youth Day

9-10 August - National Women’s Day


16-17 December - Day of Reconciliation



2013

1 January - New Year’s Day

21-22 March - Human Rights Day

29 March - Good Friday



1 May - Workers Day

16-17 June - Youth Day

9 August - National Women’s Day


16 December - Day of Reconciliation



17. Checklist ■ Valid passport (with visa where neces-

sary) It’s a good idea to make copies of

these and pack them in your suitcase

just in case. You don’t need to carry your

passport with you while you are in South

Africa but you must keep it and your other

documents in a safe place while you are in

the country.

■ Valid ID card - It’s a good idea to make

copies of these and pack them in your

suitcase just in case.

■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student

identification cards, travel cards and other

possible documents

■ Flight ticket

■ Luggage correctly labeled

■ EF Confirmation letter & other

EF documents

■ Make sure all EF forms are complete,

especially the Health Certificate

■ Medical and travel insurance documents

■ Basic medical supplies, any medication

you take regularly and a spare pair of con-

tact lenses or glasses if you wear them.

■ An International Driving License if you are

planning on renting a car.

■ Local currency for first week and for any

learning materials that are not included in

the cost of the course.

■ Money in the form of cash and credit

cards – Visa and MasterCards are highly

accepted around the island. Do not bring

large amount of cash in any currency. (Do

NOT bring large amounts of cash in any

currency!).

■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appli-

ances you plan to bring with you.

■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook.

■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers.

■ Personal sports equipment.

■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.

■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.

Homestay host’s or student residence name:

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence address:

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):

_________________________________________

EF Sales Office telephone number:

_________________________________________

EF School telephone number:

+27 214247460 _________________________________________

EF School emergency telephone number:

+27 769050923_________________________________________

Additional notes or numbers:

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence address

_________________________________________

Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s)

_________________________________________

EF Sales Office telephone number

_________________________________________

EF School telephone number

_________________________________________

EF School emergency telephone number

_________________________________________

Predeparture Cape Town LS 2012

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