Author: CampusKey

At CampusKey, we love keeping our community together, which is why we’ve made our Rebooking process super easy! If you’re a current CampusKey student and want to stick around for another epic year, here’s everything you need to know about how Rebooking works and why you should jump on board.

How Rebooking Works

VIP Period for Current Students: Imagine having a golden ticket that lets you pick your favorite room before anyone else—well, that’s exactly what our VIP period is for! During this exclusive time, current CampusKey students get early access to rebook for another year. This means you can secure your spot before we open the doors to the public.

Room Selection: As soon as the VIP period kicks off, you will receive a VIP Rebooking code that gives you early access to our applications on the website. Whether you’re keen on keeping your current cozy nook or upgrading to a new view, you get first pick at a room!

Public Booking: After the VIP period wraps up, it’s game on for everyone else. Rooms become available to the public, making it a race to grab the best spots. Avoid the chaos by rebooking early and locking down your perfect pad.

Why You Should Rebook

Get the Room You Want: Why leave your room fate to chance? By rebooking during the VIP period, you can snag the room you love, whether it’s because of the view, the vibe, or just because it feels like home sweet home.

Stay Close to Your Crew: CampusKey is all about community, and rebooking lets you stay close to the friends and neighbors you’ve gotten to know and love. Keep your social circle tight and enjoy another year of good times together.

Keep Enjoying the Perks: Rebooking means you continue to have access to all the incredible CampusKey perks. Think fully-equipped gyms, super convenient laundry spaces, dedicated study areas, buzzing clubhouses, and epic weekly events. Why give all that up when you can enjoy it for another year?

No Moving Hassles: Moving can be a major headache. By rebooking, you eliminate the stress of finding a new place, packing up, and relocating. Instead, you can relax and focus on your studies and fun times with friends.

Exclusive Rebooking Perks: We love to reward our loyal students! Sometimes we throw in special incentives for those who rebook, like discounts, exclusive events, or extra perks. It’s our way of saying thanks for sticking with us. So keep an eye on our socials to see what’s in store for this years rebookers!

In a nutshell, CampusKey Rebooking is all about making sure you have the best living experience possible. Don’t miss out on the chance to make CampusKey your home for another unforgettable year.

Step into the vibrant world of CK Mini, where coffee culture meets community. Originally launched in Cape Town and Stellenbosch, CK Mini is thrilled to announce its upcoming expansion to two new dynamic locations: Potchefstroom and Bloemfontein. These additions are set to redefine the café experience, offering more than just great coffee and delicious bites—they’re hubs of creativity and connection.

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What is CK Mini?

CK Mini isn’t your average café. It’s a haven where every cup of coffee is brewed to perfection, and every dish is crafted with care. As the tasty and snacky sister brand of CampusKey, a leader in purpose-built student accommodations, CK Mini embodies convenience, quality, and comfort. It’s the ideal spot for a mini-study break, a quick catch-up with friends, or a focused work session.

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Expanding Horizons: Potchefstroom and Bloemfontein

With the success of our locations in Cape Town and Stellenbosch, CK Mini is excited to bring its signature blend of good coffee and vibrant ambience to Potchefstroom and Bloemfontein. These cities are renowned for their bustling student communities and thriving cultural scenes, making them perfect destinations for CK Mini’s unique offerings.

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What We Offer

At CK Mini, we’re passionate about creating spaces that inspire. Whether you’re looking to fuel up with our selection of mouthwatering meals and snacks or seeking a cosy corner to dive into your studies or work, CK Mini has you covered. Our cafes are designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and comfort, making them essential hubs for students, professionals, and coffee enthusiasts alike.

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Join Us at CK Mini

Ready to experience the CK Mini vibe? Discover why our cafes are more than just places to grab a coffee—they’re community hubs where connections are made and ideas flourish. From Cape Town and Stellenbosch to our exciting new locations in Potchefstroom and Bloemfontein.

Follow our journey on Instagram at@CKMINI_CAFE

CampusKey Student Living is dedicated to understanding and addressing the evolving needs of students. Today, we’re reflecting on the latest report, ‘Improving the Transition to Higher Education,’ published by Unite Students in collaboration with Higher Education Student Support Champion Professor Edward Peck. This comprehensive study, based on expert roundtables, individual interviews, desk research, and sector case studies, offers crucial recommendations for schools, colleges, and universities.

Implications for Student Accommodation

The lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people is undeniable. While some students have adapted well, many are still grappling with its effects. A recent study by the Institute of Education revealed that 42% of 12-15-year-olds experienced a decline in social and emotional development during the pandemic.

Additionally, with the rise in mental health issues and the ongoing cost of living crisis, educational institutions must work harder to meet students’ changing needs. This report provides valuable insights on better supporting students during their transition to higher education. Here are four key takeaways for student accommodation teams:

1. Focus on Engagement and Belonging

New students face the dual challenge of adapting to new learning methods while living independently and making new friends. The report suggests prioritizing the development of a sense of belonging and engagement within the university community. This could involve extending the settling-in period both in accommodation and on campus, gradually introducing new study skills.

2. Promote Coherent Social Integration

Given the pandemic’s impact on social development, ensuring that social integration opportunities are well-coordinated during the first few weeks of term is essential. Accommodation teams and private providers are crucial in helping students settle in and make friends. Closer collaboration with student unions, academic departments, and other university sectors can streamline communication and help students find appropriate events and opportunities. This approach is particularly beneficial for neurodivergent students.

3. Address the Cost of Living Crisis Creatively

The cost of living crisis has significantly affected students, often limiting their social opportunities and making independent living more challenging. Creative, targeted initiatives can make a real difference during the initial weeks. Sharing successful strategies can benefit the wider student community, and we encourage you to reach out if you have effective solutions to share.

4. Foster an Inclusive Environment

Ensuring every student feels welcome and at home is vital. Student life can be alienating, especially for those who feel different from their peers. The report highlights the importance of considering students’ cultural needs, drawing from initiatives like the University of Kent’s “Living Black at Kent.” Student accommodation must provide a safe, friendly base fundamental to student well-being and academic success.

Our Commitment at CampusKey

At CampusKey, we are committed to supporting students from day one. Our Mentor Programme and Community Connections/workshops offer peer support, and our teams are trained to create a supportive environment. We continuously seek ways to enhance the support we provide to new students. We aim to create a nurturing environment that fosters student success and well-being throughout their higher education journey.

Want to read more on the insights from the Unite Students report on Improving the Transition to Higher Education? Go to this link to download the full report:https://www.unitegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Transition-to-University-Report-May-2024-1-1.pdf

Living the Dream in Cape Town: A Student’s Guide to the Cost of Living

Welcome to Cape Town, where stunning landscapes meet vibrant city life, and world-class universities welcome students from all corners of the globe! While Cape Town is famous for its breathtaking beauty and buzzing cultural scene, the good news is that it’s also surprisingly affordable. Here’s your ultimate guide to living the good life without breaking the bank.

Currency and Payment

First things first, let’s talk money. South Africa’s currency is the Rand (ZAR), with notes in R10, R20, R50, R100, and R200 denominations. Don’t worry if you’re more of a card person—credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including international ones like MasterCard and Visa.

If you plan on sticking around for a while, consider opening a local bank account. It’s pretty straightforward with a letter from your school. Mobile banking apps like SnapScan and Zapper are all the rage here, making transactions a breeze.

Long-Term Accommodation

Finding the perfect place to call home is a breeze in Cape Town. Here’s a quick rundown of your options:

1. One-bedroom apartment: R9,000 – R12,000 ($625 – $850) per month
2. Room in a Shared House/Apartment: R6,000 – R9,000 ($400 – $625) per month

CampusKey student accommodation is the perfect spot for international students to call home for a semester abroad in South Africa. We are within walking distance of the University of Cape Town campus, offering a luxury all-inclusive experience with a gym, water, electricity, social, and study spaces. Making friends can also be a challenge in a new country, but when you join the CampusKey community, you’re set with friends for life.

Eating Out and Entertainment

Cape Town’s food scene is legendary. Even on a student budget, you can eat like a king (or queen):

1. Top Gourmet Restaurant: R250 – R350 ($18 – $25)
2. Good Mid-Range Restaurant: R150 – R250 ($10 – $18)
3. Café or Cheap Restaurant: R80 – R150 ($5 – $10)
4. Fast Food Meal: R40 – R70 ($3 – $5)
5. Glass of Wine or Beer in a Pub: R30 – R50 ($2 – $3.50)

Pro tip: Some of the best dining spots are in the wine estates just outside the city. A wine tasting (with six wines) costs around R50 and is often free if you buy a bottle.

Clothes, Food, and Groceries

Stocking up on essentials? Here’s what you can expect:

1. Weekly Grocery Shop: R600 – R1,200 ($40 – $80)
2. Microwave Meal or Oven Pizza: R40 – R70 ($3 – $5)
3. Good Bottle of Wine: R60 – R90 ($5 – $7)
4. Pair of Levi’s Jeans: R800 – R1,200 ($55 – $80)
5. Cheap Plain T-Shirt: R50 – R80 ($3.50 – $5.50)

Woolworths is pricier but worth it for the quality. For more budget-friendly shopping, head to Pick ‘n Pay or Checkers.

Transport, Phones, and Tech

Getting around is easy and affordable:

1. MyCiti Bus Trip (up to 5km): R6 – R12 ($0.40 – $0.90)
2. Uber from Gardens to Waterfront (5km): R60 – R80 ($3 – $5)
3. One GB of Mobile Data: R50 – R100 ($3.50 – $7)
4. MacBook Air: R15,000 – R20,000 ($1,000 – $1,400). You can also buy one at a special discount through CampusKey.

The MyCiti bus system is super convenient, and Uber is perfect for those late-night study sessions at the Waterfront.

Cape Town is not just a city; it’s an experience. With its affordable living costs, you can focus on your studies while enjoying everything this incredible city offers. Cape Town is a student’s paradise from the mountains to the sea, from gourmet food to vibrant nightlife. So, pack your bags and get ready to live the dream!

Welcome to the Mother City, where every day is an adventure waiting to happen!

We’re thrilled to announce that CampusKey Potch Campus is growing! We’re adding seven brand-new luxury rooms designed just for you. These new spaces will offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and cutting-edge amenities, ensuring you have everything you need to make your university life the ultimate vibe.

Imagine sleek, contemporary designs, cozy study nooks, and the latest tech at your fingertips – all crafted to help you ace your academic journey. Our new rooms are more than just a place to stay; they’re your home away from home, providing a space where you can thrive both academically and socially.

We’re excited about this expansion as it reflects the growth and opportunities at CampusKey. We’re dedicated to improving our facilities to accommodate more students and enhance your living experience.

Construction is kicks off on 8 July, and we can’t wait to share the progress with you. Stay tuned for updates and sneak peeks on our social media channels as we bring these incredible new spaces to life!

Follow us on social media for the latest updates and exclusive sneak peeks:

Instagram:@CampusKey

Facebook:CampusKey Student Living

Thank you for being part of our vibrant community. Here’s to new beginnings and even better experiences at CampusKey Potch Campus!

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When it comes to student accommodation, are we creating homes or hotels? This question is at the heart of the conversation in the industry, where experiences from the hospitality sector are shaping the way we approach student living. The transition from home to university can be daunting, and our goal at CampusKey is to ensure that students feel welcomed, supported, and at home from day one.

Drawing from experiences in the hospitality sector, we understand the importance of providing high standards and quality service. Just like in hotels, students have high expectations, and we aim to meet and exceed them by offering top-notch facilities and a warm, welcoming environment. Whether it’s ensuring that rooms are comfortable and well-maintained or providing engaging social spaces, we prioritize creating a positive living experience for our students.

Unlike hotels, where guests typically stay for a few nights, students call our accommodations home for the majority of the year. This means that we play a crucial role in providing a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially. Our focus extends beyond providing a bed for the night; we strive to create a sense of community where students feel connected and supported throughout their academic journey.

One of the key lessons we’ve learned from the hospitality sector is the importance of customer feedback and satisfaction. Just like hotel guests, students are not shy about sharing their experiences and expectations. We actively listen to student feedback and use it to continuously improve our services and facilities. Whether it’s through student mentor programs or online surveys, we value the input of our students and use it to drive positive change.

In today’s digital age, data-driven decision-making is essential for delivering exceptional student experiences. By leveraging data analytics, we can better understand student preferences and tailor our offerings to meet their needs. From room preferences to social activities, data allows us to provide personalized experiences that enhance student satisfaction and overall well-being.

As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue integrating insights from the hospitality sector into our student accommodation offerings. By combining the best elements of both worlds, we can create a living experience that truly feels like home while providing the comfort, convenience, and quality service of a hotel. At CampusKey, our goal is simple: to provide students with a place where they can live, learn, and thrive. Welcome home.

All-inclusive student living seems like a simple enough term, right? But at CampusKey, it means a little something different to us. “All-inclusive” at CampusKey can be broken down into three categories: Convenience, Comfortability, and Connections. They are carefully designed to not just meet student living expectations but utterly surpass them!

Convenience: Because Adulting Can Wait

Let’s talk Convenience—the core of CampusKey. Your stay at CK includes water, electricity, and Wi-Fi bundled into one package. No need to worry about juggling bills; we’re here to make adulting wait while our students focus on acing those exams. Additionally included in your rent are on-site laundry spaces and in-room cleaning services to keep your clothes fresh and your space sparkling.

Comfortability: Where “Home Away from Home” Becomes Reality

Comfortability is our middle name, and we believe the first step to being comfortable is feeling safe. Therefore, CK has a 24-hour on-site team. Need help at 2 am? Just hit us up! Our call-us-anytime number is like a bat signal for student support. Got a clogged drain or just need someone to chat with about the latest episode of your favourite show? We’re here for it. Oh, and our staff? They’re not just friendly; they’re practically your extended family, creating a vibe that screams, “Welcome home!”

Connections: Turning the Campus into a Community

More often than not, you will hear someone say that the friends you make during your student years are your friends for life. But whether the connections you make are just a chapter or the whole book at CampusKey, we want to make sure every student finds their crowd. CK hosts weekly events & workshops to set the stage for students to make memories. Picture this: movie nights, CV workshops, and everything in between. Say hello to a calendar filled with vibes.

As a CK student, you also have the opportunity to join a mentorship programme to hone your leadership skills. Need someone to show you the ropes or share the secrets of surviving finals week? We’ve got just the mentor for you.

Our social spaces, gyms, and study nooks are not just spaces—they’re the heartbeat of our community. Your CampusKey family is ready to cheer you on during workouts, Netflix binges, or last-minute cram sessions.

So, there you have it – at CampusKey, we redefine the meaning of all-inclusive Student Living, where adulting takes a back seat, comfort is key, and connections are the cherry on top. We’re not just offering a place to stay; we’re curating an unforgettable university experience for each student who walks through our door.