An excellent student experience

The University is committed to the development of our students by supporting their knowledge, understanding, skills and attributes that are needed to work and live in a way that safeguards environmental, social, economic and cultural wellbeing, now and for future generations.

Creating an inspiring and supportive learning environment is a key driver, working in partnership with our students through our committees and day–to–day running of the University to ensure student representation, consultation and collaboration based on an agenda of mutual respect.

While the academic year 2021–22 remained a challenge for teaching and studying due to the continuation of pandemic restrictions, the University provided an excellent student experience through its long–established framework in line with Covid–19 protocols. With regulations loosening towards the end of the academic year, the University swiftly reviewed and reacted to the changes to provide the best possible experience for students while ensuring their safety remained paramount.

In the WhatUni Student Choice awards 2022, Bangor University was fourth in the UK in the University of the Year category. The University was second in the International category, and third in the University Halls and Postgraduate categories. In addition, Undeb Bangor was named fifth best Students’ Union. The awards reflect our commitment to the student experience and are an acknowledgement of the hard work and commitment of the sabbatical officers, Students’ Union and staff.

Employability: Providing training and work experience for our students

Our undergraduate internship programme offered the opportunity for students to apply for 62 projects with successful applicants benefitting from an internship experience. With generous funding from Santander Universities, we invited applications from students and graduates to fund additional or complementary training courses and received more than 700 applications. £32,500 was awarded to 84 students and young alumni, enabling them to gain qualifications for driving, project management and diving to name a few, as well as provide financial support to gain graduate work experience over the summer.

Supporting students to explore and prepare for self–employment and business start–up

In 2022 the University recruited a Graduate Start–Up coordinator who has provided one–to–one mentoring and practical support to 63 students interested in developing their business ideas or growing their businesses. In addition, 47 students were funded to gain self–employment experience through placements and bursaries.

Supporting alumni to get closer to the graduate jobs market

During 2021–22 our dedicated Graduate Support Programme provided bespoke support to 124 recent graduates who were facing barriers to graduate employment, including 25 funded work experience placement opportunities. 61% of graduates who engaged with the programme went on to secure graduate roles.

Digital Hardship Fund for Students

As a direct consequence of the Covid–19 pandemic, the University supported students who experienced barriers in accessing online delivery. In 2021–22, our Money Support Unit dealt with 1,299 student enquiries relating to digital hardship and made 1,056 payments to students totalling £483,603.99.

Examples of equipment and digital provisions received by students included laptops, PCs, tablets, Internet connection upgrades, headphones and additional computer screens.