Keys & Security

Keys and Security on Site

Oxford is not Williamstown, and is subject to more regular petty thefts and break-ins. Seldom does a year go by without bicycles, wallets, purses, mobile phones, and occasionally a laptop owned by Williams students being stolen from open premises or in town when you’re out and about. Security concerns are consequently of the utmost importance to.

You will receive a key card upon arrival, which will serve as your room key until you have picked up your Bod card. Once you have your Bod card, you must come to return your key card at which time your Bod card will be given access to the WEPO campus. Your initial key card will expire at the end of orientation, so it's important that you do this before it expires. Non-return of your key card will result in a charge of £15 on your Williams term bill.

For your safety and security, a Night Porter will be on duty every night during term time, carrying out security checks and general maintenance across the complex. The Night Porter will normally be based in the office in 2 Lathbury next to the front door, or doing inspection rounds. They will always have their mobile phone with them when on duty. Should you note anything suspicious, such as prowlers or noise disturbance, please contact the Night Porter immediately on their cell phone: +44 (0) 7311 599257.

It is imperative that you close your room's door when you leave it and all exterior doors whenever you leave a building. You should also always make sure that the external gates to the premises are closed behind you. If you get locked out during term, the Night Porter (when on duty), the Scout, the Director of Administration, or the Faculty Director will have a bedroom master key.

Please park and lock up your bikes at the rear of 145 Banbury Road in your designated bay in the bike stands. Unlocked bikes could be stolen if someone managed to get into the premises. Make sure you lock your bike to the stands, not merely to itself. Do not leave your bike along alleyways or fire escape routes, and never bring it indoors. A fine of £20 is imposed on any student leaving a bike indoors, as this goes against fire regulations. Programme bikes and accessories that are stolen, lost, or damaged beyond economic repair will be charged for, without exception. See section on ‘Cycling in Oxford’ for a full list of charges. It is wise to never leave bike accessories on your bike unattended (such as lights, keys, locks, bells, or helmets); take them inside with you. We encourage you to lock your bike within Exeter College when in the city centre, as this is the most secure place you have available where you bike is unlikely to be stolen. WEPO bikes have been stolen from the city centre in the past, so please take care not to leave yours downtown over night or during term breaks.