Hello!
I'll also be doing the child branch course, i'm really looking forward to start in January. What is this portfolio you're talking about? I haven't recieved anything like that, was it to do with your offer - conditional or unconditional?
I was wondering about halls too (I live in Wales), and have actually put a deposit down on the halls in Derby. I contacted them because I was a bit worried that I might be put with undergrads straight from school; but it turns out that they are specifically for graduates- medicine, nursing and midwifery, so all 21+ at least and hopefully not like freshers! I'm 25, whilst I love a night out, I also like my sleep! I just thought that with lots of lectures, placements etc i Just wanted an easy life in terms of renting - so it's handy having all bills included with halls.
In terms of the bursary, I've been told to wait until we hear from the NHS, which will be a few months before we start.
Looking forward to meeting you all!xx