The Learning Grid in Leamington Spa (or ‘Leamgrid’ as it is affectionately known) might be the University’s best kept secret. As it’s tucked away in the Town Hall, that intimidating building on the Parade behind the statue of Queen Victoria, you might have walked right past it. But never fear, intrepid explorer – I’m here to help you discover its wonders. Let’s get intimate with Leamgrid… By Charlotte Salter
The Essential Info
Right, boring bits first. This is the lowdown to get you started:
Where is it? The Town Hall, in the middle of the Parade in Leamington Spa. Just walk through the front door (no need to sign in) and turn right. Et voilá!
When is it open? From 12.00 to 22.00 on weekdays, and 09.00 to 17.00 at the weekend.
Anything else I need to know? Hot and cold drinks and cold food are allowed. Sorry though, you can’t bring that delicious pizza in. Even if it’s cooled down.
Facilities
Have you seen the Rootes or University House Learning Grid? Leamgrid is a different beast altogether. It’s a series of rooms with a maximum capacity of 58, meaning both a more personal atmosphere and, sometimes, more of a chance you won’t find a space. But here’s the good thing – unlike the other Grids, you can book your own study desk or PC in advance as well as using the open access spaces, to make sure you’re never disappointed. To book a space follow this link and scroll down to the bottom of the page.
There are six different areas in Leamgrid: open access PCs and open access study desks (meaning you don’t have to book them), bookable PCs and bookable desks, the bookable group study/presentation room, and a soft seating area for when you want a break. You can chat with your group in all of these areas, provided you aren’t insanely loud, as well as bringing in hot and cold drinks, and cold food.
There is also a Mac (password available upon request), two printer/scanners, a handy booking kiosk, and a Panaboard. That’s a whizzy high-tech whiteboard that can actually print out whatever you have drawn on it – and it’s free!
What’s so special about Leamgrid?
First of all, it’s local. If you live in Leamington and your printer breaks down right before your essay is due in, it’s much closer than campus. Plus, if you’re going mad in your room, a change of environment, only a short walk away, can do wonders for your study.
Top Tips
- If you want to study at the weekend, it might be best to book a space. Saturday and Sunday are our busiest days, and we hate turning people away!
- Remember to bring your University ID card with you. Sadly, there is no access to a database of students in Leamgrid, so if you don’t have a working card you can’t come in. Again, we don’t want you to have wasted a journey!
Don’t forget to share this post! #studyblog