Chevening Orientation 2023 - Frequently asked questions

Will there be photography/filming taking place?

There will be Chevening photographers/videographers at the event. If you do not want to be in a picture/video that may be used for marketing purposes by Chevening, please make this clear to the photographer/videographer at the time. There will also be a small number of yellow lanyards available from the information desk if you do not want to be filmed.

What if I lose personal property on the day?

If you lose something on the day, please speak to ExCeL staff – Chevening will not keep any lost property. Excel work with their lost property partner, NotLost, to reunite you with your lost items. If you think you’ve lost something at ExCeL London, please complete this form.

Are there any items I cannot bring to the venue?

Please be sensible and think about the items that you are bringing to the event.

This is not an exhaustive list but please do not bring:

• Flammable liquids and solids
• Oxidisers such as bleaching powders
• Organic peroxides
• Tear gas devices or any gas cylinders
• Infectious substances such as live virus materials
• Wet-cell car batteries
• Magnetrons
• Fireworks
• Toy/replica guns (metal or plastic)
• Toy/replica knives (metal or plastic)
• Non-safety matches
• Firelighters, lighter fuel, paints or thinners
• Poisons, arsenic, cyanide or weedkiller
• Radioactive materials, acids, corrosives, alkalis or caustic soda
• Creosote, quicklime or oiled paper
• Vehicle fuel system parts which have contained fuel
• Party poppers

Should you bring these items, they may be confiscated by the Security team at the ExCeL and we cannot guarantee that you will be allowed them back.

Can I keep my bag with me during the event?

For all large items please you use the free of charge cloakroom provided for your coat and bag. This can be found on the ground floor.

Please note that this does get very busy so if you wish to check a bag please arrive earlier than the official start time.

What if I need to charge my phone on the day?

There are no sockets within any of the ExCeL rooms for charging. However, there are charge boxes for phones located east and west of the venue near the entrances.

Is there a map of the venue I can see?

Orientation will take place on the East side of the building in the Capital Hall, Auditorium and Capital Suites.

Will there be anywhere to buy food on the day?

As there are no other events on at the ExCeL that day there will be limited vendors open on the Boulevard. Therefore we suggest you bring your own snacks to see you through the day.

What if I need assistance on the day?

We will have a manned information desk within the Capital Hall that you can go to and all Chevening staff will be wearing red lanyards.

If you are feeling unwell, there is a first aider at the ExCeL so please do reach out to ExCeL members of staff.

Can I bring my spouse/child/friend with me?

No, I’m afraid we cannot allow additional guests with you. Anyone who is present will not be permitted to enter the event spaces.

If you have additional needs, you should have been contacted and you may be able to bring a friend to assist you – please email welfare@chevening.org if you have not been contacted.

Can I leave early?

We would prefer that you stay for the duration of the programme as important information will be passed across throughout the day.

Do I have to attend the workshop sessions?

No, you do not have to attend these sessions however we think these sessions will be incredibly useful and so hope that you do engage.

I have a dietary requirement – will there be food for me?

When registering, you should have noted if you had any dietary requirements and as such, there will be gluten free and vegan options available to those who stated their preference. All the options are halal.