the scene - march 2011

www.thestudentsunion.org.uk -1

UCSU starts as it means to go onelection candidates canvassyour election candidatesyour sabbatical candidatesthe SU annual general meetingmoney weekactivities assembley calledsave saintsvolunteering latestBUCS season resultsUCSU guide to tower hamletsimprovements in your academic experience

elections edition // March 2011

With 2011 now well underway The University of Cumbria Students’ Union (UCSU) Representation Sabbatical gives an update on the Union’s recent workings and looks ahead to the things to come over the next few months. Continues overleaf

UCSU Starts As It Means To Go OnArticle by Martin Dodd

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Representation

Firstly and unsurprisingly as you may have been able to

tell the 2011/12 Main Elections are now in full swing

with nominations closed and candidates currently

campaigning hard before the results are announced at

the UCSU’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday 10th

March (see page 18).

Nominations have continued to remain healthy

despite the major changes the Union has undertaken

in direction over the past year with a number of roles

contested including for the first time ever the London &

Tower Hamlets Site Representative position, an example

of the strides the Union has taken in representing

students far and wide this year.

On Tuition Fees the Union continues to balance

working alongside the University as well as holding it to

account, with a decision on a future fee expected over

the next few months we are continuing to feed into

the process. When a proposed fee is put forward the

Union will work to ensure it is reasoned and evidenced

by carefully balancing: a) the recovery of the funding

cuts imposed by government; b) an opportunity to re-

invest in academic quality and services; c) the continuing

need to maintain access to all students; d) what future

students are likely to regard as value for money.

The work remains largely sensitive and confidential

while the union is tied to say much further at the mo-

ment there have been positive spin off work looking

at the Student Deal as a whole, in-terms of what the

basic offer is to students, how they improve this as well

as ensure expectations are clear between both future

students and the University. Looking at everything from

university marketing, academic quality and the possible

creation of a student charter which sets what future stu-

dents should expect from their university and vice-versa.

Academic Meanwhile the Union has continued to focus on its

purpose of “working for a better education for you” by

continuing to promote academic quality. The majority of

this work has revolved around the university’s upcoming

Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Audit which includes

the compilation of the Student Written Submission and

participation in the University’s Briefing Visit and Audit

Visit (see page 38).

Further the Union held its first ever Engage Week

(Monday 14th - Friday 18th February 2011) which

included promotions of the National Student Survey

(NSS) (open to all final year undergraduates), the Learn-

er Views Survey (open to all further education students)

as well as the nominations stage of the Main Elections

(see page 6). Participation in the NSS is already up on

last year showing both the Union’s and University’s clear

message as to its importance in enabling students to

engage and feedback on their whole University

experience, both positive and negative.

As well as this the Union in partnership with the

University has also achieved a pilot to reduce turn-

around of assignments where appropriate to 20 days

from September 2011 with a view long-term to reduce

turnaround to 15 days.

UCSU Starts As It Means To Go On

Well it’s been a busy few months since the last edition of the scene and what a few months they have been with a whole number of things keeping your UCSU Sabbaticals busy...

Student Life

Meanwhile in-terms of Student Life work has continued

to focus on the condition and satisfaction of University

accommodation receiving nearly 500 responses to the

Union’s Accommodation Satisfaction Survey, which is

almost 50% of all University student accommodation.

Work has also begun in preparation with the

University to support Money Matters Week (part of the

2011 National Student Money Week) promoting careful

budgeting and supporting University of Cumbria stu-

dents’ on money issues. The Union has also managed to

initiate a process of becoming a Hate Crime Reporting

Centre in order to increase both support and guidance

to students who are often found to be the victim of

hate crime and let it go unreported.

Union Community Within the community the Union has continued to de-

velop ties as well as manage relations both on campus

and within the local community.

On campus the Union has actively visited all

gateway sites to promote the recent elections as well

as looking increase representation of those sites, shown

through the number of candidates either standing as site

representatives or non-portfolio officials(with a scope

which represent another campus). Further the Union

has continued to meet with the University raising and

seeking commitments on issues such as study space in

Tower Hamlets, 24hr book issuing equipment in

Ambleside and the long-term implementation of the

Campus Carlisle concept.

In the local community where issues have been

raise by local residents the union has continued to

work tirelessly where possible. Such as issues surround-

ing inconsiderate parking around the Brampton Road

campus in Carlisle where working with local residents,

students, the university, police and city councillors we

have launched a flyering campaign asking students and

staff to be considerate of local residents while

promoting on-site parking and local transport links.

In terms of volunteering the Union celebrated

National Student Volunteering Week (Monday 21st –

Sunday 27th March 2011) participating and organising

numerous opportunities and one off events across

the week (see page x). Further the Union in a balance

between both community relations and volunteering

held the first of ten sessions where student volunteers

provide Community IT Skill Sessions to local residents.

Overall work in 2010/11 has been positive but with

the election ongoing comes new ideas and a period

where possible to reflect on the Unions progress and

review many of the changes it has experienced in the

last twelve months. While the Union is in a positive

position to go forward many of the changes achieved

are still yet to be realised, primarily increased engage-

ment of which will become an increased priority over

the next year and of which this year’s elections are

only the start.


The Students’ Union elections are in full swing, with

candidates across a range of sites campaigning for votes

in their effort to win a position. Once elected these

student activists will lead the Union in the 2011/12

academic year, setting the tone and objectives of the

organisation in our continuing mission to improve

the educational experience of all University Of

Cumbria students.

The full list of candidates is listed on the following

page, and the manifestos of the main Sabbatical runners

are presented so you can make your choice on who

you’d like to back. The manifesto of every candidate is

featured on the SU website, and as these volunteers

will be fundamental in representing your interests to

the University you should not only vote but interrogate

each candidate’s pledges to see if they reflect your

aspirations. The Union is a primary agent for change on

behalf of students, and the elected officers are at the

forefront of that work and only by securing your partici-

pation can the SU ensure that our aims are student lead.

There will be an open Question Times held at the

Lancaster and Carlisle Fusehill sites, (Lancaster Saints Bar

12.30-2pm Monday 2nd March and Carlisle Calva Bar

12.30-2pm ) where any and all students can come

along and quiz the candidates as to the specifics of

their reasons for standing and what they hope to

achieve if elected.

Voting opens via the Union website from 6pm

Friday 4th March and runs through until 6pm

Wednesday 9th and can be accessed here:

www.thestudentsunion.org.uk/election

Once you have clicked the ‘Vote Here’ link you will

be asked to enter your University log in and password,

this will authenticate your student status and then once

you have logged into the website you will be presented

with your unique ballot paper. Vote and then come

along to the Annual General Meeting from 6pm Thurs-

day 10th March from 6pm in the Hugh Pollard Lecture

Theatre in Lancaster and Learning Gateway Lecture

Theatre in Carlisle to hear the results.

Remember you only get the opportunity to select

the leaders of the country once every five years, the

SU is more interested in being a true representative

organisation so we offer the potential to change the

leadership of the Union annually, so make the most of it!

Candidates canvass for your vote

YourElectionCandidates

Lancaster

Lancaster

Lancaster

Lancaster

Lancaster

Lancaster

Lancaster

Lancaster

Brampton Road

Fusehill St.

Newton Rigg

Newton Rigg

Representation SabbaticalKarl Barnsely

Emma-Jane Gregg

Liam Walker

Academic SabbaticalLorri Millar

Student Life SabbaticalRachel Garlick

Ben Iveson

Union Community SabbaticalTom Underwood

Student TrusteeRobbie George

Anna Beaumont

Carlisle Exec RepLewis Walker

Penrith Exec RepRahul Mehorta

Mature Exec Rep Daniel Sencier

International Exec RepJulian Neilson

Women Exec RepParys Hatchard

LGBT Exec RepJonathan Kirkham

Environmental Exec RepMatt Tennant

London Site RepDavide Angeletti

Alex Walker

Carlisle ABS RepGrant Hopkins

Lancaster Education RepSalman Khan

Carlisle Non-PortfolioAnna Beaumont

Laura Poustie

Lancaster Non-PortfolioMatt Hayhurst

Robbie George

Laura Tombs

Penrith Non-PortfolioMatthew Whinray

Student DirectorGrant Hopkins

Fusehill St

Newton Rigg

Lancaster

Lancaster

Tower Hamlets

Tower Hamlets

Caldewgate

Lancaster

Brampton Road

Caldewgate

Lancaster

Lancaster

Lancaster

Ambleside

Caldewgate


YourSabbaticalCandidatesPlease read through the Manifestos and make an informed choice

Thank you for taking the time to read this manifesto

for my campaign to become your Representation

Sabbatical for this coming year. I am standing for this

position after completing my degree in Drama. I have

been active in the Students Union for two years now as

the Representative for the Arts Faculty. During this time

I have campaigned hard for the Students I have had the

honour to represent.

With the massive problems the University faced

last year I fought hard alongside the people I repre-

sent to minimise impact on students and although

we did not have total success we did achieve enough

concessions to reduce the impact on Students. When

representing Students at Faculty meetings I have made

sure that the issues which we the Students care deeply

about are never brushed aside and as a result we are

now seeing positive discussion on issues such as

Anonymous marking and coursework feedback.

I regard the work of the Union as one of an

ongoing campaign to improve life at the University of

Cumbria. I understand rarely is the work of the Union

completed within one year and therefore my two years

as an academic representative and the experiences I

have collected is invaluable in what makes not just a

good Representation Sabbatical, but an outstanding one.

I will therefore continue the campaign against the rise

in fees whilst helping the University to prepare itself

for the rise thus ensuring that Students will get a much

more positive experience from their time here.

I took an active role in developing the structure

of the Students Union last year and that was because

I understood that there was a necessity for change. I

understood then and I understand now that the issues

most important to Students is not just the procurement

of cheap booze (don’t get me wrong this is important

to people), but that they are safe and comfortable in

their accommodation and they are able to study to the

best of their ability with nothing holding them back.

One of the biggest concerns that comes out of

surveys, including the NSS is that of how organised the

University is in running its courses and Student support

services. Too often I hear horror stories of placements

being badly managed. I have heard stories of course-

work going missing and the Students losing out because

of this. To improve that state of affairs is something is

something I care about and is something I will campaign

to improve this in this coming year. If we are to pay

much more in tuition fees than at present it is impera-

tive that we as Students get value for the money and

hard work we invest in our education.

Thank you again for taking the time to read this

manifesto and would like to encourage all Student’s,

young or old, part time or full time, onsite or distance

learners, drunk or sober to please make me your choice

for Representation Sabbatical. You will then have played

your part in having one of the most enthusiastic, dedi-

cated and passionate person representing your views.

Karl BarnsleyRepresentation Sabbatical Candidate


Rachel GarlickStudent Life Sabbatical Candidate

Hi, I’m Rachel Garlick. I’m hoping for

your support as Student Life Sabbatical.

From being nicknamed “Mommy Rach” in my first term,

I’ve shown a commitment to practical student welfare

over four years. Part of the Freshers’ Week team for 3

years, I’ve welcomed, helped the lost and bewildered,

leafleted, directed, and pub-crawled newcomers. I’ve

developed and run games to build social networks and

support, and worked on UV and other nights for the

fun of it too. I feel all this has helped me develop my

people skills and confidence.

I have been part of the SU volunteering group and

this year was asked to be RAG leader. In this role, I’ve

worked across campuses with the Sabbs and Volunteer-

ing Co-ordinators to: listen to students individually and

in meetings about what they want to happen; publicise

the opportunities, including e-mailing options; offer

advice about tasks people want to do themselves; and,

helping where they want my input. Together, we’ve

organised and I’ve made happen, socials, sales and

many other events/fundraising opportunities - all raising

money for different charities.

I enjoy the University’s sports life, playing on the

women’s basketball team, swimming and being an infor-

mal cheerleader (not the rake thin kind with pompoms)

for many of the other teams. I’m keen to know what

you believe can be improved for clubs.

When it comes to campaigning and liaising with

University departments, I’ve started out as part of

the British Youth Council’s campaigning network and

demonstrating against tuition fee rises, and I’m keen

to use my planning experience from RAG and course

placements to improve the universities performance,

especially around LISS career advice at a time when

graduate unemployment is a real risk for all of us.

Emma-Jane GreggRepresentation Sabbatical Candidate

Hey, my name is Emma-Jane Gregg but to many I

am known as EmJ and I am applying to be your

Representation Officer 2011/2012. I am currently

completing my 4th year of Primary Teaching with Drama

at the Lancaster Campus and for the past four years,

although I am originally from Windermere, I have made

Lancaster my home. Over my time at university I have

thrown myself into activities held in the SU as well as

taken part in cross-campus competitions and events. I

have been involved in RAG, the READ project and sup-

porting various sports teams, art exhibitions and drama

productions. However, there have also been some

negative issues in my time here: loss of lecturers, the

cancelling of lectures and seminars and cramped lecture

theatres. It is for these reasons I wish to take on this

role so as to guide and oversee the improvement

of the universiity experience, both through academical

and social roots.

I intend to use the comments from the recent National

Student Survey to help create the University experience

you want, using communication and diplomacy skills I

developed whilst acting as a Residential Co-ordinator

to deal with remaining and future issues. I also propose

more interactivity with the Students union website so

that any student can log on and find out such things

as themes for upcoming socials and all the voluteering

opportunities we are currently running. I believe that the

SU have already done a fantastic job within their roles,

leading the university at Tuition fees demonstrations,

which I was a part of. I suggest these achievements and

activities need to be fed down to the students and local

communities through the website and local newspapers

to highlight the achievements and successes of the uni-

versity and its students. These changes would help lead

to the union being more transparent so that all students

are able to look in and see what is happening.


Ben IvesonStudent Life Sabbatical Candidate

Have completed three years of study at the Uni-

versity of Cumbria, I have found myself examining

what I have gained from my experience of university

life. In many ways it has fulfilled my expectations since I

arrived and in respects of the drama course that I have

pursued, I feel it has allowed my confidence to flourish

in terms of how I can communicate with people across

the social spectrum, from the loud and approachable

to those of a nervous disposition. The course and the

atmosphere of each of the campuses have taught me

to appreciate the importance of maintaining a delicate

communal ambience and a sense of belonging for all

who attend. Though in some cases I think there is room

for improvement.

In the role of a Student Life Sabbatical, I would

consider it of high importance that the SU contin-

ues to encourage every campus’ inhabitants to feel

obliged to provide it’s wide ranging opinions on a more

regular basis, in terms of the upkeep of activities and

sports groups, suggestions for a wide range of future

entertainment endeavours and to address the welfare

of students that appear “sat on the fence” rather than

comfortably integrated. In this role I would encourage

research into how this mentality comes around and

affects attendance rates, from results in past polls to

evenings of entertainment. Relying on past experience

as a member of a band has taught me to be persistent

and determined in terms of event organisation, to get

straight answers over what is required of a venue and

how to best manage the time given to it. By encouraging

more input through simple means, such as putting extra

time into making yourself more available to the student

public at busy points in the student-working day, more

feedback about ongoing events and issues of wellbeing

can be addressed on a less formal but qualitative man-

ner, with less pressure on the student to feel over-anal-

ysed. Though various surveys are put forward to get to

grips with how successful a campaign is, these methods

appear only as correlative and do not fully grasp a

student’s full-bodied view on a matter, something which

is invaluable towards maintaining

the Student Union.

With changes such as the rise in student tuition

fees upon us, I feel it is of great importance that these

issues are discussed and thrashed in detail by the

students as well as trustees, as it may have invariably

affected their view on the future of their education and

once they have left to pursue whatever field they aspire

to. These changes aim to come into action in the follow-

ing year, and I feel that working parties could be used

to great effect to make the student lifestyle appealing to

future intake, if not to aim towards reducing the impact

of this by reassessing the apportion of the budget in

other fields to compensate. Apathy towards the notion

of students involved in politics across the campuses is

an issue which, I believe, is something that must be faced

with sheer determination and plenty of tact.

Ultimately, after a year of careful restructuring of the

Student Union, I believe I can provide a fresh, open and

positive attitude towards the delicate workings of the

upcoming academic year, in order to provide a spring-

board for all future generations that come to study

within this establishment. So let’s not just be “Genera-

tion Y”, but be “GENERATION “I”!!!

Lorri MillarAcademic Sabbatical Candidate

Vote Lorri #1 for Academic Sabbatical

H i I’m Lorri Millar and I am standing for

Academic Sabbatical 2011/2012.

A little about myself. I studied at the Lancaster campus

for four years doing my degree in Primary Education

with a specialism in Religious Education. I was also

heavily involved with the Students’ Union during this

time, having held three previous positions, Academic

Affairs, 07-09 and Clubs and Societies officer 09-10.

I am currently the Academic Sabbatical for this

academic year and have really enjoyed my time in this

role. I strongly believe that your academic experience is

of great importance and that this needs to improve in

the University of Cumbria.

So far, I have been involved with the construction

of the Student Written Submission (SWS) the implanta-

tion of the RARA (Rules and Regulations Awareness)

Campaign. Of which I’m sure you have seen the

bookmarks, stickers and screen savers. I have also been

the led sabbatical on the promotion of the National

Student Survey (NSS), the development of the Student

Academic Representative System (course Reps) and a

key member in representing students on the universities

Academic Boards and committees.

My aspirations for the year ahead if I was re-elected

is to introduce student led teaching awards, whereby

students are able to recognize the hard work and

contributions of university staff and staff are able to

reward and value the views of students.

Student Academic Representatives are an instrumen-

tal in improving the quality of education on the University

of Cumbria courses. I feel that a social aspect should be

developed within the Student Academic Representative

System, to aid and improve the current system.

In previous campaigns I have endeavoured to try and

improve the academic experience of students and

especially with educational placements. This was greatly

highlighted in the student written submission as a

current issue and something that I have been trying to

solve. To do this I have been developing relations with

the education faculty to try and understand the issues

surrounding their placements. If re-elected I feel I would

like to be able to make a significant difference and build

on the work that I have already done in this area.

Vote for Lorri Millar as your Academic

Sabbatical - Millar Genuine Sabb.


Tom UnderwoodUnion Community Sabbatical Candidate

Vote Tom Underwood #1 for Union Community Sabbatical

I have loved working in the Students’ Union over the

past year as the Union Community Sabbatical, and am

so grateful for the opportunity I have been given. With

it being the first year of the position I have been faced

with some challenges but I feel I have achieved success

in a number of areas and really got the position off to a

good start. I have campaigned and lobbied MP’s and the

University on fairer tuition fees, to save EMA, for study

space for students in Tower Hamlets, lobbied the Uni-

versity for weekend access for Brampton Road students

to use the Gateway building at Fusehill. I have increase

accessibility for library services in Ambleside by getting

a self-service machine and have created the initial and

maintained strong external relations between students,

local residents and external organisations which are

vital to improve social cohesion in the community.

Next year I will;

1. Prioritize gateway sites and smaller campuses and

ensure they are always considered when running

campaigns, events and support services.

2i. Improve the quality of the student experience

for our students at gateway sites and smaller ca

puses such as Ambleside, Penrith, Barrow, London etc.

2ii.Create an official Ambleside Campus Representative

3. To maintain and further develop the current prog-

ress I have started between students, local residents

and external organisations such as the council, police

and community groups at our larger sites.

4. I will hold all cross campus officers and sabbaticals

to account to ensure they distribute their time fairly.

I genuinely feel I can continue to deliver and improve

on the previous work I have done so, vote Tom

Underwood in for a second term as Union

Community Sabbatical! If you have any questions please

contact me on [email protected].

I really hope to see you next year!

Tom.

Liam WalkerRepresentation Sabbatical Candidate

Making changes Reality, Giving you a valued voice

H i everyone, I am Liam Walker standing for the

role of Representation Sabbatical. I am currently

the Student Life Sabbatical at the Students Union (SU).

Why have I Chose the role?

Its simple; I love representing Students. I have been

thankful for being elected in the last year and feel ready

to step up to the challenge of being the lead Sabbatical

and am ready to lead with you in mind.

I want everyone involved in the decision making

process. As I have worked as a sabbatical for the last

year, I feel I know the structure of the Students’ Union

and the University. I already have established relation-

ships with the University staff and would be able to use

this knowledge to progress the University.

What do I want to do?

• Continue the fight for Equal University Access

(ensuring the University provide students with low

tuition fees and only the best learning resources).

• Continue to press for the better use of the

learning Gateway (in Lancaster).

• Continue to press for convenient library facilities,

course materials (whoever may require them).

• Press for better provision (and regularly visit) at Gateway

sites, such as; Ambleside, Tower Hamlets and Energus.

• Ensure all Exec members and volunteers are fully

engaged within the Union and are regularly seen by

you by including them centrally in the SU’s work.

This is something which I feel needs attention.

• Help Make a clear Welcome programme

(meet and greet your new Sabbaticals).

• Ensure the University have you and other students

at the centre and core of ALL discussions

(for example any changes on Campus Carlisle).

• Ensure all is done to ensure FE are represented

by the new provider


What I have achieved this year:

• Spoke to students from every University owned

Acommodation as part of my Accommodation

campaign which a booklet will be produced to

theUniversity to make positive changes.

• Been heavily involved in National Demo and tuition

fee work. While I lead the Save the EMA campaign

dueto my passion of education for all.

• Made strides in Intramural sport.

• Developed a booklet for the start up of future

Student Groups.

• Liaised with the University to Ensure services are

run with you in mind.

• Ensured FE students have been engaged in the Union

by attending FE forums and working closely on other

issues with the FE University team (i.e. EMA).

Thank you for reading and I hope

to speak to you soon.

Believe in P+sitive Change

Do you believe the Gateway can

be used more effectively?

Are you happy with Library Facilities?

Are the University listening to your concerns?

Are you Happy with SU Presence?

Is the University Clear with what they expect?

Are you getting Value for money at the University?

£9,000? Not on my Watch

Does your timetable suit you? If not....

Liam Walker Continued...


“ Will working for a business, on a project basis, increase my chances of graduate-level employment?”

qualifications + experience = success

The simple answer is YES.

The Unite with Business programme can provide you with PAID opportunities to work in a business on a meaningful project relevant to your studies. These short-term opportunities last for 20 days and provide a real insight into the workplace.

To register for notification of Unite with Business opportunities please email the team on [email protected] or call 01228 616315

SU ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING(You don’t even have to wear a tie).

Whether you are a member a sports team, volunteer for

a charity or in some cases as an employee of a business

there is one event many people while aware of often fail

to recognise its importance in any organisation...

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) is the most

important meeting of the year for your Students’ Union.

It’s a chance for students to hold it and its trustees to

account. As a charity the Students’ Union as well as being

governed by charity law and a board of trustees who

oversee the function of the organisation, ensuring that its

core values and purposes are reflected in its operations.

As well as an opportunity to openly question trust-

ees of the Union, be presented with a report of the

Union’s progress as well as its accounts for 2010/11, it’s

YOUR chance to submit and make key decisions for the

year ahead.

The 2010/11 AGM is being held on Thursday 10th

March at 6pm via Video Conferencing in both Carlisle

(Learning Gateway Lecture Theatre) and Lancaster

(Hugh Pollard Lecture Theatre).

The deadline for proposals to be considered (known

as motions) is Thursday 3rd March 2011. For information

on how to propose and submit items for discussion or if

you would like to request an additional video conferenc-

ing suite at a site near you email Martin.Dodd@cumbria.

ac.uk or call 01228 616253/01524 526566.


final poster.indd 2 9/2/11 14:01:02

National Student Money Week has been organised to raise student awareness of the advice available at university to help them manage their money and achieve better financial skills. Learning, Information and Student Services (LISS) in conjunction with the Students’ Union are running some events which include:

Money Advice StAndS Monday 7 March 12pm – 2pm

Shopping on A Budget Tuesday 8 March 12pm – 2pm

clotheS SwAp Monday 7 March 3.30pm – 7.30pm The Gin Case, Newton Rigg

Keep an eye on the student’s union F-book page for more information.

For ideas on how to save money on your shopping and get a free meal in a bag.

See the SU facebook page for details of venue on each campus.

Tuesday 8 March 5.00pm – 8.00pm Calva Bar, Fusehill Street

Tuesday 8 March 2.30pm – 7.30pm The Saints Bar, Lancaster

Get a new wardrobe without it costing you a penny! The week before the event, take along

clothes/accessories and you’ll get a voucher to exchange for the same number of items on the day.

Ask a money question and get a wealth check

Information Commons, Brampton Road.Learning Gateway, Fusehill Street.Gateway Building, Lancaster.Brambles, Newton Rigg.

Money weeknAtionAl Student

7 – 11 March 2011


The activities assembly is your opportunity to express any ideas or concerns you may have in relation to Student Groups (sports and societies). It should be noted the as-sembly is open to anyone.

The assembly will be on Tuesday 15th March at 5.15. The room’s available (at the time of print) are:

• LongCorridor:HPLT(Lancaster)• Eskdale:E009(Penrith)• Skiddaw:F05(Carlisle)• Skiddaw:F20(Carlisle)

Youareabletosubmitanythingyoulikepriortothemeeting,isthereanythingyoudonotcurrentlyenjoyoristheresomethingyouwouldliketoseeadded?ThisisYOURchancetosubmitandmakekeydecisionsfor the year ahead! The current motions are as follows:

Motions:•StudentGroupsHandbookproposal(how

tosetupastudentgroup–andkeepitsuc-cessful,aguide).TobeavailablefromTue8thMarch.Thisistotryandmakethestartupofnewgroupsthatlittlebiteasierforyou and additionally for any current student groupswhohaveanypotentialissuesitprovides a number of potential issues and providingsolutionstothem.•Numberstojoin–loweringfrom10.Wewouldjustliketohearyourcommentsonwhetherastartupnumberof10isfairorwouldyouliketoseeitlowered?•AnyotherfundingissuessuchasNorth-ernCountiesandextraclubfunding.

The deadline for proposals to be consid-ered(knownasmotions)isTuesday8thMarch2011.Formoreinformationonhowto propose and submit items for discussion orifyouwouldliketorequestanadditionalvideoconferencingsuiteatanothersitetojointhemeetingemaileitherliam.walker2@[email protected](Carlisle),01524526566(Lancaster).

Activities AssemblyTuesday 15th March 5.15pm

Room Allocations:HPLectureTheatre–LancasterF05,F20–Carlisle(FusehillSt)E009,EskdaleLectureTheatre–Penrith

Items to be discussed:No.ofmembersneededtostartasociety.Raisingthejoinupfee(from£10to£20).NorthernCountiesandotherfunding

www.thestudentsunion.org.uk -23www.thestudentsunion.org.uk -23


As you were all enjoying the end of yourholiday’s staff at the Students Union were

back at work missing the buzz of having the students about, so what better way to celebrate your return than putting on a Refreshers week of fun and Frolics to get you back in to student life.

From the pub tour to glowing at the UV party and being mesmerized by the Fantastic Lo Ried everyone seemed to have a fantastic time, even if some of you thought the quiz question were a little to hard, not that the winners of the £100 prize were saying that.

Julian Neilson a Business Management student from Carlisle said “The pub tour was really good fun, I always enjoy it. I also went to see the hypnotist Lo Reid she was fantastic, but I didn’t expect anything else, I have seen her three times now and she never fails to impress.

Chloe Merna from the Students Union was involved in organising the events and said“Refreshers went off with a bang this year, it’s brilliant to see students having a great time after the exam blues and before the new term really kicks in, we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did”

Article by Jeanne Gate

A refreshing start to the year

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT LIFESTYLE CARD

DEMAND EXTRA DEMAND EXTRA

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exp: 08/11

982612 1234 7654 9185

Yu ZhouLoreto College Students’ Union

dob: 25/02/85

EXTREME DISCOUNTS, INTERNATIONAL ID AND SUPPORT FOR NUS

DEMAND EXTRA NOW - FROM £11

www.nus.org.uk

DISCOUNTS

EXCLUSIVE TO

NUS EXTRA


Don’t miss the newly introduced

BLURED MONDAYS that will be

taking place in the SAINTS BAR

from Monday 7th March

8.00pm – 12.00am.

Saints

University of Cumbria

Students’ Union Building

Bowerham Road

Lancaster. LA1 3JD

The open mic night is open to

anyone so come and impress! If you

think you have the skills to pay the

bills then this one is for you!

Thursday 10th March. Starting at

8.00pm ‘til late. All welcome!

ADMISSION FREE.

See Glynis at the bar to get involved.

This Indie and Britpop night is sure

to impress and make you come

back for more. As well as fab music

there will be exciting drinks promo-

tions and a free tequila jelly for

anyone that arrives before 9.00pm.

£1.80 Double vodka and mixer

£1.90 Double JD and Mixer

FREE ENTRY BEFORE 9PM

only 50p after.

Blured Mondays

Open Mic Night

What’s On

www.thestudentsunion.org.uk/volunteering

MUCH MORE

Volunteering

Student Run Self Help (SRSH) is an innovative project working to involve students in peer-to-peer support for students and young people with eating disorders. Eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa are estimated to af-fect between 1 – 3 % of the population. Resources for treatment of these disorders are patchy, with minimal support available for mild to moderated cases or for individuals in recovery.

Self help groups offer a safe atmosphere for discussion. They hope to support people living with eating disorders and allow individuals to realise that they are not suffering alone.

Training, ongoing advice and mentoring is provided for students keen to run a student led project. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference to student life while also developing your own skills and CV. Initially, this will be run on the Lancaster campus and will hopefully become available across other sites.

For more details on the project please email Emma at [email protected] or call into the Lancaster SU office to see her.

Volunteers for this project need to be able to commit to working with the project until the sum-mer of 2012. Volunteers work in a small team of three or four to run self help group meetings every two weeks during term time and will be required to commit to a minimum of 2 hours a fortnight to the project, as well as additional time to work on group publicity and administration.

Volunteers also need to be able to attend a two day training workshop at a mutually convenient time and location.Volunteers do not need any prior experience with eating disorders.

Eating Disorders Self Help Group

The application deadline: 11th March


Volunteering

On Friday 17th December 2010 the Student Occu-pational Therapy Society (SOTS) ended the semester in style by hosting a conference focused on ‘Trans-forming Occupational Therapy for a Greener Future.’ The event was attended by occupational therapy students and professionals from across the region and represented the successful culmination of many months of planning and hard work. Various members of the SOTS volunteered their time to ensure that all aspects of the event ran smoothly. This included hosting workshops; making gifts for speakers; prepar-ing delegate packs; organising catering for the day; approaching companies for sponsorship; stewarding and running stalls at the marketplace.

The day included inspirational speeches from two keynote speakers, a range of practical and discussion based workshops and a bustling marketplace with representatives from businesses linked to occupa-tional therapy. Feedback from those who attended was very positive, indicating that the conference was both informative and motivating. Delegates specified that they found it interesting and useful to learn about innovative occupational therapy practice in the region. A popular workshop presentation focus-ing on the transition from student to practitioner was also praised by attendees as being ‘worthwhile,’ ‘relevant’ and ‘reassuring’.

Student Conference SuccessArticle by Carrie Bulmer.

Treasurer, University of Cumbria

Student Occupational Therapy Society


Above: Conference attendees proudly show off their bears made in the ‘Memory Bears’ workshop.

The conference provided a valuable learning opportunity and a unique addition to CVs for all volunteers involved with organising and execut-ing the event. Skills learned and contacts gained by volunteers are likely to prove very useful in enhanc-ing future employment opportunities. The SOTS are keen to continue their involvement with similar projects in the future.

Top: Jenny Heath, newly qualified occupational therapist (far right) leads a workshop about the transition from student to practitioner.

Bottom: Carla Bharathi, an MSc student, tries out a bicycle adapted for people with physical disabilities (provided by Watchtree Wheelers).

Article by Allan Stavert

Volunteering

Article by Sarah Hodgson

Social Work degree from University of Cumbria

I initially wanted to be involved in volunteering as I thought the experience would look good on my CV and I could enhance existing skills and gain new ones; useful when coming to getting a job after I had graduated.

I decided to volunteer with a local Brownie Pack as in the future I want to work with children. Their weekly meetings became something I missed when I was unable to attend and two years later I continue to volunteer with the pack.

After completing a Practice Work Placement with Adults who suffer from Learning Disabilities and Mental Health problems I began volunteering with a young adult whom I had started work with whist carrying out the placement.

Finally when I completed my final Practice Work Placement working with Young Carers I asked if I could continue to work with them as a volunteer after the placement had finished. Due to the current climate I was aware that getting a job after gradua-tion would be difficult and wanted to stay up to date with relevant knowledge and volunteering offered this, as well keeping skills and abilities relevant to the job role alive.

Once I had started volunteering I soon realised that it would do more than I had originally thought. Volunteering whilst being a student not only added to my CV and enhanced my skills but it gave me a sense of achievement and left me feeling as though I had given something invaluable to others. I have made new friends, gained new skills, achieved awards and have also been offered a job from one organisa-tion and a leadership role from another.

So volunteering whist being a student proved to not only enhance my skills but I have made new friends, worked with people whom I may not have done without the volunteering opportunities and now have a job.

Volunteering helped me get a job, straight away after Uni.

Well as the season draws towards its final few weeks, who is still in contention I hear you shout.

Well down here at Lancaster, Netball 3rd’s gained promotion and won their League yesterday and remain unbeaten while those still in with a chance for promotion include Men’s Hockey who have two tough games, one away at arch rivals Lan-caster, but can still get top spot and Men’s Basketball who are three points behind the leaders but with them still to play at home.

The only remaining cup team are Men’s Rugby Union 1st who play Lancaster University 1st in a Conference Cup quarter-final game on Sunday 6th March 2011, 2pm kick off down at the Vale of Lune RUFC.

Up in Carlisle, Men’s Football 1st are on course for promotion and winning their League and remain unbeaten with just one game to play away at Bolton on 9th March.

Unfortunately several other teams from all three campuses face the threat of relegation and the prospect of playing lower tier sport next season.

Awards EveningsYes it is that time of the year, and Carlisle & Lan-caster have already arranged their presentation nights with Carlisle opting for Friday 1st April in the Calva Bar and Lancaster having there awards evening the following Wednesday 6th April in Saints. Tickets will be on sale soon, so make sure you get yours.

Sports Afternoon On the afternoon of Wednesday 6th April 2011, several Lancaster based teams are holding a sporting afternoon with Men’s Football, Netball & Basketball all inviting their corresponding teams from Carlisle & Penrith to take part in a fun filled friendly afternoon of sport. Do you want to get involved, if so then contact [email protected] for more details.

New Student Group At LancasterA new Student Group has been set up at Lancaster for students studying English Literature and they are having drop in/sign up sessions between 12noon & 3pm in Smarties Lounge in the Students’ Union building on Tuesday 8th & Wednesday 9th March 2011.

If you are unable to visit them you can also email Charlotte Smith (S0901321@ cumbria.ac.uk) or Chloe Watson ([email protected]) for further details.


Activities

Article by Allan Stavert

5

6

SCONUL- Can be obtained from the Library and provides you with access to Libraries all over the UK. – www.sconul.ac.uk

Enjoy being in London, in a few years it’s about to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games so expect to see regeneration all over!

BaCkgrOUNdBy Tom Underwood

UoC and formerly St Martin’s College have been involved in teacher education in London since 1984 building on a long tradition of teacher education established by the Church of England in the East End of London in the last 19th century.

There are approximately 300 students studying at Tower Hamlets.

The courses are offered in a Professional Development Centre (PDC) owned by the London Borough of Tower Hamlets where we lease space.

We offer a range of courses at the campus in-cluding Foundation Degrees, Undergraduate QTS degrees, PGCE’s and an MA in Education.

The majority of our students in Tower Hamlets are from ethnic minorities reflecting the local population.

UOC also has a strong relationship with the London Borough of Newham. UoC is the largest supplier of Newly Qualified Teachers in Newham. Approximately 40 students per year who have studied at Lancaster or Carlisle gain jobs there.

123

4

SU adviceGreat advice from a professional run service. – [email protected]

FacilitiesWe can use the Library of Queen Mary University and are in talks to ensure we can join their societies.

Shopping- 20 mins. by train to ‘The West End’- One of the biggest shopping areas in London.- 45 mins. by train to ‘Westfield London’- Newly built shopping centre with more than 265

shops, you’d be sure to find a bargain or job here.- Very close to the new ‘Westfield’ being built

at Stratford.

discounts- The NUT Countdown Card- Discounts in many places, even Thomas Cook! - - - Ask the NUT Rep when they visit.- NUS Extra Card- Only £11 and you can receive discounts in shops

ranging from Superdrug, New Look, Game andeven Orange. – www.nus.org.uk

- Student Oyster Card- £10 per year and has to be ordered online with

a photo, it entitles you to 1/3 off your travel whenyou purchase a weekly, monthly or yearly Travelcard. – www.tfl.gov.uk/photocard

TOp TipS FOr TOwer HamLeTS STUdeNTSBy Alex Walker


This & much more available at The Shop, in the Students’ Union building, Lancaster campus. Come and visit us!

Unisex & Ladies HoodiesAvailable from the Students’ Union and online at www.thestudentsunion.org.uk/shop

Unisex - £24Ladies - £2810% discounts with NUS card


The Students’ Union has been

working on your academic

experience

swsThe University Of Cumbria is currently being involved

in the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Audit. This

is a bit like an Ofsted for the University. As part of

the audit the Students’ Union produced a document

called the Student Written Submission (SWS) 2010.

In order to collect the information needed to write

the Student Written Submission, students were asked

to participate in the UCSU Snap survey in December.

This was combined with the National Student Survey

(NSS) results for 2010 and other USCU surveys. These

provided evidence which enabled us to be able to write

the Student Written Submission. If you would like a copy

then a request can be made by e-mailing

[email protected]

nssThe National Student Survey (NSS) is a survey of how

final year undergraduate students feel about quality of

their academic experience of studying on their course.

All final year undergraduate students are eligible to

fill out the survey. The survey asks 22 questions which

students are asked to rate their feelings on a scale of 1-5

and focuses on issues like learning resources, organisa-

tion and management, and assessment and feedback.

The University can then use the information gathered to

improve the teaching and learning at the University of

Cumbria. The university also receives an overall satisfac-

tion score. The survey started on the 24th March and

will be open until the 29th April.

So if you are in your final year please fill

out your NSS. This is your chance to speak up.

www.thenationalstudentssurvey.com

lvsIf you are on a Further Education (FE) course at the

University of Cumbria, you can fill out the Learner

Views Survey. (LVS) The survey is run by the Skills

Funding Agency and asks learners about their views on:

- The information, advice and guidance they have

received from their provider;

- The quality of teaching and learning on their

programme;

- Their overall satisfaction with their learning experience;

- Their satisfaction with the level of support available to

them from their provider;

- Whether or not they are treated with respect; and

whether their provider is responsive to their views.

The link to the survey is https://surveys.ipsosinteractive.

com/wix/p684089662.aspx” https://surveys.ipsosinterac-

tive.com/wix/p684089662.aspx

It Looks Like This

Article by Lorri Millar

the scene - march 2011

Documents

future students

academic quality

education students

students d

future fee

university marketing

student charter

student deal