Spring Semester Orientation 2026
Spring Semester Orientation is an optional two-day programme of guided tours, social events and information aimed at Spring Semester incoming study abroad students. If you want a little extra time and help to settle into life in Sheffield and the University, then Orientation is for you.
Spring Semester Orientation is Thursday 5 February to Saturday 7 February 2026.
Taking part in Orientation is free, though some events may require you to book in advance.
Get involved
Register your interest in taking part in Orientation Week by completing this form:
Spring Orientation 2026: expression of interest
If you are unable to access the form, or you have any questions about Orientation Week, contact the Global Campus team at globalcampus@sheffield.ac.uk.
You can take part in as many or as few events as you like, and you only need to attend the sessions and events that interest you.
All events and activities are facilitated by our team of Belonging Ambassadors, who you will recognise in their pink tops.
The majority of sessions are held the Belonging Building.
Information desk
Our ambassadors are available at our information desk each day from 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm on Thursday 5 and Friday 6 February in the Students' Union plaza. This is a good place to go to when you first arrive, if you want to find out about specific events or how to find a particular venue.
Global Campus Breakfast Club
Ask questions, meet new people and have a complimentary drink and breakfast. Our friendly ambassadors will be at our Breakfast Club at 210 Portobello (The Belonging Building).
Campus tours
On Thursday and Friday we'll be holding guided tours of the University campus and Sheffield city centre. A great way to orientate yourself to your new semester home.
There's no need to book a place, just turn up and tag along. You'll find the details in our programme of events below.
Communities
We welcome all our communities, and we have a range of tailored information, resources and guidance for students to help you make the most of your time at University.
Disabled students
The Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS) are contributing to the programme of activities taking place during Orientation to support disabled students.
Programme of events
Thursday 5 February
Global Campus Breakfast Club
10am to 11am, 210 Portobello (The Belonging Building)
No need to book, just drop in
Icebreaker activity
10am to 11am, repeated 11am to 12pm
Come to either session. No need to book, just drop in
City tour
1pm to 3pm
A tour from campus to the city centre.
Meet outside the Diamond main entrance, no need to book
Campus tour
1pm to 3pm
Join our Belonging Ambassadors on a tour of the campus
Meet outside the Students' Union Building main entrance, no need to book
Culture Compass
3pm to 5pm, 210 Portobello (The Belonging Building)
A workshop to learn more about different cultures and how that impacts being a student at Sheffield
Hot drinks and snacks available.
This event will be repeated on Friday 6 February
Global Campus: Board games evening
Join our Belonging Ambassadors and other new students in a relaxed setting
6pm to 8pm, 210 Portobello (The Belonging Building)
No need to book
Yo! Karaoke
8pm until late, Students' Union Building, Bar One and Raynor Lounge
This event is delivered by Sheffield Students' Union and is open to all students
Friday 6 February
Global Campus Breakfast Club
10am to 11am, 210 Portobello (The Belonging Building)
No need to book, just drop in
Icebreaker activity
10am to 11am, repeated 11am to 12pm
Come to either session. No need to book, just drop in
City tour
1pm to 3pm
Friends International will host a tour from campus to the city centre.
Meet outside the Diamond main entrance, no need to book
Campus tour
1pm to 3pm
Join our Belonging Ambassadors on a tour of the campus
Meet outside the Students' Union Building main entrance, no need to book
Culture Compass
3pm to 5pm, 210 Portobello (The Belonging Building)
A workshop to learn more about different cultures and how that impacts being a student at Sheffield
Hot drinks and snacks available
This is a repeat of the same event from Thursday 5 February
Global Campus: Board games evening
Join our Belonging Ambassadors and other new students in a relaxed setting
6pm to 8pm, 210 Portobello (The Belonging Building)
No need to book
Saturday 7 February
Trip to Bakewell
Join our ambassadors and take a bus to the lovely Peak District town of Bakewell. You’ll need to bring bus fare (approximately £6) and wear warm waterproof clothing and suitable shoes for walking in possibly wet weather.
Meet outside the Diamond main entrance at 10am
Presentations from previous events
The videos below contain useful information for your stay in Sheffield, from our previous talks and presentations.
Cyber Fraud & Scams Information Talk with Regional Fraud Unit
Helpful information on protecting yourself from scams and fraud. The Regional Fraud Unit will highlight some of the latest trends in cyber fraud and scams.
Introduction to the Careers and Employability Service
Studying at Sheffield is more than just a qualification. We want you to leave University with the skills and confidence you need for the future you want.
Working in the UK During and After Studies
Visa information talk
Studying in the UK: What To Expect from Your Course
Welcome to the Library Services
Support for mature students
A talk highlighting the support available for mature students
Essential immigration information for international students
Introduction to the Students’ Union by Students’ Union officers
Academic Integrity: Avoiding Plagiarism
Helpful information provided on how to avoid plagiarism.