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F E S T I VA L
Calling all sports fans...
January 2024 – Edition 114
2 The Bucks Student
Welcome In this edition: Elected officer update. . 3 Finding your home away from home. . . . . . . . 4 Elections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Amy’s update. . . . . . . . . . . 6 STRIVE Festival. . . . . . . . . 7 Bubble Tea. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Rusty’s Refill Station. . . 9 Varsity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Big Deal Activities. . . . . 11 Events Calendar. . . . . . . 12 The Venue is a Safe Place for all. . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 IWD Fest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Volunteering. . . . . . . . . . . 16 MT Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 International Students’ Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Bucks Swimming. . . . . 20 Netball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 BNU Paramedicine. . . . 21 Bucks Womens’ FC . . . 22 Wycombe Wanderer’s Football Club. . . . . . . . . . 23 Membership Survey. 24
Page 23 – Wander no more! The Wycombe Wanderers are here.
Twenty-twenty-four? More like twenty-twentyget involved with your newspaper more! Well if that terrible pun hasn’t put you off, I guess nothing will. So thank you for coming, and thank you for reading! This newspaper is run by you for you, the Bucks Student. So we encourage you to get involved and get in touch with us if you have any feedback or ideas for future editions and articles. We are always looking to improve and provide the best possible experience for our readers, so drop an email to editor@thebucksstudent.com or any of the Elected Officers and we’ll take it from there. There’s space for content both big and small, all you have to do is suggest it and get in contact. For all advertising and media enquiries please contact the Students’ Union Communications and Marketing department. Simon McDowell simon.mcdowell@bnu.ac.uk Oli Gunson oli.gunson@bnu.ac.uk
F E S T I VA L
Ajay Sunder ajay.sunder@bnu.ac.uk Ian Tuazon ian.tuazon@bnu.ac.uk
Page 7 – Thinking about your employability? STRIVE is here!
Articles in this newspaper do not necessarily represent the views of Bucks Students’ Union but are that of the specific author. View this edition online at bucksstudentsunion.org/media/ newspaperarchive. © 2024 Bucks Students’ Union
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Elected Officers update
January edition 114
your
ELECTED OFFICER EDITORS Sruthi K. Subhash VPEW (HW)
Brandon Tester President
It’s been a while since I’ve done an update, I also want to give you a bit of an insight into what I have coming up alongside highlighting some of the fantastic events and activities that we have coming up. We had a jam-packed agenda at Union Council with Paul Morgan who is our Pro Vice-Chancellor Education attending, so it was a great chance to ask some great questions to those who have the power to make change. In the latter stages of December, I worked from the 27-29 to help induct some new members to BNU, who are the new International Student Jan cohort, a great experience to meet them and hopefully, I get to see more of you throughout the next couple of terms. Refreshers Fair happened. A fantastic hit with the new students arriving and I had a stall for Monthly Monday Meals which was run by our wonderful Food Sustainability ambassador. I had volunteers make up 100 meal bags for Tuna Pasta Bake and they were all gone by the end of the day, a great success in my eyes.
Jess Bradbury VPAB
What is next? Well, I believe it to be the last 6 months of my tenure as President at Bucks Students’ Union. This doesn’t mean it is time to lay back and stroll through, there is much more to be done to continue the mission of Bucks Students’ Union in making life better for Students at Bucks. I am attending a University Management Group away day at Missenden with Tristan, CEO of the SU, looking at the University’s Strategy and potentially the upcoming budget round. On Tuesday 30 January, I will be joining other members and SU’s of the NUS in their launch of their new student manifesto for the upcoming General Election. Having a review meeting around Help Your-shelf and how best we can utilise this space effectively and ensure everyone gets a fair choice at what we put on there. Going through a funding bid for the King Charles Coronation Food Project to enhance the current Monthly Monday Meals project I have run since my first year as an Elected Officer.
Amy Pile VPEW (Uxb and Ayls)
Pushing for more funding through the Council (Helping Hands) to continue what we already do for Monthly Monday Meals. Travelling to Westminster in February to join NUS and other SU’s in talking to MPs who form part of an All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on the topic of the housing crisis, I better get my Bucks tie on! Our very own Elections are happening, my role is up for grabs so if you see yourself as President of the Students’ Union why not come in and chat? There are many other meetings I will be attending to ensure your student voice is heard, ranging from meetings around the student experience to University Executive Team meetings and everything in between. If you have any queries or concerns about your experience at BNU then please feel free to get in touch! As always, thank you for reading.
Brandon – President
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Your home away from home
The Bucks Student By Sruthi K. Subhash
Finding your home away from home
Heading off to university is an exciting turning point in life as we all come with a lot of dreams and aspirations which allow us to explore independence and selfdiscovery. As a soon-to-be graduate, I still remember the mix of
excitement and nervousness that came with starting university life. The concern of feeling homesick is more than just missing the physical space of home; it’s a complex mix of emotions, nostalgia, and a desire for the comforting routines left behind. It’s a common and natural feeling, but learning to navigate it is an essential part of the uni experience. In this article, I would like to share some insights and tips to help cope with homesickness and make the most of your time away from home. It’s okay to feel a bit lost or overwhelmed by the new environment. However, what makes us different is how we adapt and make wherever we are feel like home. This is not always an easy task since we are all unique individuals with different characteristics. Technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected with loved ones back home. Regular video calls, messages, and even old-fashioned letters can bridge the physical gap. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between staying connected with home and fully immersing oneself in the university experience.
As an international student, I have faced homesickness and still do sometimes. I was fortunate to receive amazing support from the students’ union, which helped me overcome it. Joining societies and attending events helped me make friends and feel involved, making me feel at home even when away from home at BNU. To ensure that everyone feels at home at BNU, we have come up with an idea to hear from students about what made them feel at home at BNU. Sharing your story could help others who are going through the same situation. If you are feeling lost, we would love to help you come out of the situation. Keep an eye on social media for more information about the ‘Home Away From Home’ campaign. During this one-week campaign, we will be around campus to find out what makes you feel at home at BNU and what we can do to make it even better. Look out for us as we will be roaming around with a microphone and camera to record your thoughts on this and share them with other students who may be going through the same situation.
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#BSUElections
It’s that time of year again when we dust off the voting booths and ballot boxes and start preparing for our annual elections. There are so many different leadership positions up for grabs, giving you many opportunities to get involved and make a real change - but with so much on offer, it can be a bit confusing to remember your Sabbatical Officers from your Student Trustees. Luckily, we’re on hand to give you all the insight into the #BSUElections and remind you why having your say is so important. What are the elections for?
Why are the elections important?
Why should I nominate myself?
These elections decide the Union’s four Sabbatical Officers for the next academic year. The Sabbatical Officers are full-time members of Union staff who lead the direction of the Union and help deliver the high-quality student experience we are so passionate about. These four roles offer the opportunity to direct the work of the Students’ Union meaning you can implement changes you want to see.
These elections decide who will be the leaders of your Students’ Union for the next academic year 202425, so it’s essential to have your say and vote for who you want to lead on your priorities and activity for the next academic year. During the elections, each candidate will produce a written manifesto outlining what they would aim to achieve if elected to their chosen position.
Do you think you can help make life better for students at BNU? Can you campaign on students’ behalf to make sure their voice is heard? Can you represent your Students’ Union? If the answer is yes, then you should nominate yourself.
Additionally, there are part-time student leadership roles on offer alongside your studies. These include the Student Trustee elections, a unique opportunity to be part of the team driving the strategic direction of the Union as part of the Trustee Board. Finally, we have Student Reps and club and societies committee elections. Student Reps act as the voice for their class or group and help us understand the student experience, including any changes required or highlighting good practice. Club and society committees lead their club or society and include roles such as Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. You might be wondering about our Executive Officer positions. We are currently undertaking a restructure of these positions, and therefore they will not be available in this round of elections. However, keep your eyes peeled for the next updates regarding these roles and how you can get involved!
Now you get to play judge. Which candidate best represents you and your interests? Who do you think can bring about the most effective change at BNU? This is your opportunity to decide who those people should be, use your vote when voting opens from Monday 4 – Friday 8 March so we can act on behalf of our student’s best interests.
To nominate yourself, head to our elections hub and select your chosen role from the menu on the left. From there, log in with your Blackboard details and click ‘Stand in Election’. Follow the steps, add a photo and your manifesto – and you’re ready to go. Nominations open on Monday 8 January and are open for a few weeks but make sure to nominate yourself before noon on Friday 16 February when they close. So, what are you waiting for? So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re intrigued about being a Student Rep, excited about the potential of being a Student Trustee or swayed by a Sabbatical Officer position, it’s time to put yourself forward to lead your Students’ Union and start writing that manifesto. If you have any questions or want to find out more about the roles on offer contact surepresentation@ bnu.ac.uk.
elf here!
Nominate yours
January edition 114
#BSUElections
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VPEW Uxbridge and Aylesbury update
The Bucks Student By Amy Pile
How does your feedback create change?
A note from Amy, your VPEW Hello! As I carry out my responsibilities as a sabbatical officer, time seems to fly by, and there is always so much work to do. When I decided to run for this position, I faced a challenge in crafting my manifesto, even though I had many ideas. I had to decide on the changes I could quickly implement and gather support from students, SU staff, and the university. I have been focusing on the student body and one of my goals is to develop the Aylesbury campus further. During my three-year student journey, I visited the Aylesbury campus and found it to be a quiet space that resembled a new conference building, rather than a typical university atmosphere. I believe that all students, regardless of their chosen campus, should have equal access to the offerings at both Wycombe and Uxbridge. To achieve this, I have been increasing my presence in a new SU area that is slowly being developed, fostering face-to-face engagement with students, providing support, organizing activities, and attentively listening to their preferences and concerns. The Aylesbury Library has limited resources, but with the support from alumni and current students donating books, we are putting together a shared shelf, and the books are being prepared for transfer to the campus. Despite the time invested, I am determined to get every detail right. Ultimately, my passion is inclusion, and I am dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging, irrespective of their courses or campus locations. As I approach the last 5 months of my tenure as Vice President of Education and Welfare Officer for Uxbridge and Aylesbury, I am aware that there is still much work to be done. I am hopeful that the achievements I have made will contribute positively to the experience of all Aylesbury campus students.
Education holds a pivotal role for both Vice President of Education and Welfare Officers. The position is not without its challenges, but its effectiveness greatly relies on the support of student representatives and school officers, especially when confronting issues with the university. Every student has the potential to make a positive impact, emphasising the crucial relationship between the Students’ Union and its members to achieve the shared goal of ‘Making Life Better for Students at Bucks’. Active engagement with the Students’ Union offers numerous benefits, and it’s important to highlight that all services provided are free. To effectively challenge the university, staying informed about ongoing developments is essential, and this knowledge stems from the valuable feedback we receive from students. Student rep feedback serves as a key channel for collecting this information. Once your representatives gather the feedback and submit it to the representation team, they compile and share this with our School Officers. These officers, in turn, prepare for Programme Committee Meetings (PCMs), the primary meeting for student reps to feedback on their cohort’s student experience to their academic team. Over the years, it has become evident in meetings with the representation team and school officers, that certain themes and challenges are recurrent across various courses, including timetabling to classes being cancelled at the last minute. After collaborating with school officers, it becomes our responsibility to address challenges, within the school itself. For issues extending beyond schools’ control, they are presented at Education Committee, a senior University meeting, which has students present. During these meetings, a comprehensive paper outlining concerns raised by students is presented. This allows the board to thoroughly review the document and take necessary actions to address the issues moving forward. By actively participating in the process, we collectively contribute to the continuous improvement of the educational experience here at BNU. As your elected officers, we’re dedicated to giving our all in everything we do. Your opinions matter, and we’re always striving to get better. Sometimes, we might not see immediate changes, but we could be paving the way for future students, and we shall continue to hold the university to account.
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STRIVE Festival
January edition 114 By Imogen Sanders
STRIVE is our annual employability festival, and it is going to be bigger and better than any STRIVE we have done in the past. From Monday 26 February to Friday 1 March, we have a week packed full of skills workshops, panels, employability advice and a big networking event. It is important for students to develop skills to become as employable as possible after University. We are kickstarting the week with a networking event in The Atrium where you can network with employers. They will have stalls where they will be showcasing their organisations and any available opportunities for future work. There are also workshops during the week which will build on your transferable skills and look great on your CV! So far, we have booked: Public Speaking, CV writing, LinkedIn workshop, Mental Health First Aid and a resilience workshop. STRIVE is the perfect opportunity to improve your employability skills and expand your network in a week filled with activities designed to help you succeed. If you have any questions about STRIVE, please contact us on: sutraining@bnu.ac.uk
This month’s recipe Super Green Pasta!
Scan to go to our What’s On page and keep up with future recipes.
8 The Bucks Student
FRUIT BUBBLE TEA £ 3.50
New!
Choose from:
Lychee and Jasmine Fruit tea or
Strawberry and Jasmine Fruit tea with:
Fruity Popping Mango Boba or
Strawberry Boba
338 kcal
Rice: 20p per 100g
Pasta: 15p per 100g
Oats: 20p per 100g
Vegetable Stock Cubes: 10p per cube
Garlic Granules: 30p per 50g
Paprika: 30p per 50g
Mixed Herbs: 30p per 50g
Toilet Roll: 25p each
Laundry Pods: 10p each
Washing Up Liquid: 15p per 100ml
Shampoo: 30p per 100ml
Conditioner: 30p per 100ml
s ’ y t s Ru l l i Ref n o i t a t S
January edition 114
PRICE LIST
By Mehvish Butt
Your Affordable Hub for Cooking, Household, and Toiletry Essentials In the bustling landscape of student life, every penny saved counts. For Bucks Students looking to stretch their budget without compromising on quality, Rusty’s Refill Station, situated in the Students’ Union reception, emerges as the go-to destination for affordable cooking ingredients, household supplies, and toiletries. Unveiling a treasure trove of budget-friendly options, Rusty’s Refill Station is your onestop-shop for essential items that won’t break the bank. Budget Friendly Cooking Essentials Rusty’s Refill Station takes pride in offering a variety of cooking ingredients at prices that beat traditional stores. From staple grains and spices and household essentials, the station’s selection is not only economical but also encourages a sustainable approach to shopping. By bringing your own containers, you can scoop up just the amount you need, eliminating the need for excess packaging and saving you money in the process.
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Rusty’s Refill Station
Why Rusty’s Refill Station? Affordability: Rusty’s Refill Station is committed to providing students with access to essential items at prices significantly lower than conventional stores. Sustainability: By encouraging the use of reusable containers, Rusty’s Refill Station actively promotes eco-friendly practices, contributing to a more sustainable campus community. Convenience: Located at a central spot in the Students Union Reception, Rusty’s Refill Station is easily accessible, making it a convenient choice for students looking to save both time and money. Rusty’s Refill Station beckons students to explore a budget-friendly shopping experience without compromising on quality. Take a step towards smart and sustainable living by choosing Rusty’s Refill Station for your cooking, household, and toiletry needs. Visit Students Union Reception today and discover the economical and eco-conscious way to stock up on essentials at an unbeatable price!
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10 years of Varsity
The Bucks Student Brandon Tester, your Students’ Union President has shared his thoughts on Varsity and what it means to him.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of our illustrious annual sporting event, Varsity. A day fuelled by high octane sporting emotion, tension, anticipation and sporting brilliance. The university that wins the most points during this event will be crowned the winner and given the RoeBuck trophy to display until we next meet. Our Varsity opponents are the University of Roehampton. Each university takes turns in hosting, with the event in 2023 being hosted by the University of Roehampton. Meaning this year the RoeBuck trophy is heading home, but can it stay home? That’s the big question and your support can help that happen on Sunday 10 March and Wednesday 13 March 2024. With Roehampton having the overall edge we need you more than ever. Tickets are now available at £15. The event, usually held over a week, culminates in a day where supporters from Bucks and Roehampton watch the bulk of the fixtures being played, with the last fixture finishing at 9.00pm. The day then finishes at the Students’ Union bar where both universities’ staff, players and supporters come together to watch the cup ceremony.
“Varsity is one of the biggest sporting events of the year. Since my time at the union it is something I have always looked forward to. The build-up is always an exciting time because it is a good motivator to get yourself ready and fit to smash Roe. With this being the 10th anniversary it means so much to me as it is going to be my last one. Make sure to get a ticket, this isn’t one to be missed.” Support is such a massive thing in sport. From elevating the team’s performance to creating memories that will last a lifetime for not just the students playing, but for yourselves and your time at university. Have your say on the biggest sporting event of the university year. Your ticket gets you a varsity T-shirt with full printed timetable on the back, varsity wristbands for entry into venues on the Sunday and Wednesday (this does not include the dance competition in Southampton), a full programme of events including articles from all Varsity captains, transport to events (transport provided by SU only), food voucher to be used at the venue and priority entry to our award winning venue. Fixtures to be played on Sunday 10 March are, Mens Football 4’s and Men’s and Women’s Hockey. Fixtures to be played on Wednesday 13 March are Badminton, Basketball, Men’s Football 1’s, 2’s and 3’s, Women’s Football, Netball 1’s and 2’s, Rugby and Men’s and Women’s Volleyball. A full timetable of the event will be available on the day. So what are you waiting for? Follow the QR code to the left to get your tickets now and be a part of this amazing day.
January edition 114
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FR
IES T I TIV C A Happy New Year! We hope this year will help you to learn some new skills and attend lots of free activities.
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Recreational activities
By Imogen Sanders
We have had a great start to the year with lots of new and exciting activities going on! We have had a trip to Bletchley Park, been to the cinema, learnt self-defence, visited the Oxford Castle and Prison. Dopamine Land in London was a great experience with lots of sensory rooms to be in. We have had a lot of online skills ongoing this month and a lot of students have taken the opportunity to sign up to these. There is an upcoming visit to the Banksy Gallery in London, which we expect to go down a treat! February is a busy month for us also, we have many activities planned along with STRIVE at the end of the month. We have the singing lessons starting up again and they are going on through the whole month. Betty the Therapy dog is visiting Uxbridge, there are tickets to the Opera: Madama Butterfly, a behind the scenes tour of the Royal Opera House and The National Student Pride event.
You can book onto any activity through our website so be sure to keep an eye out on the Bucks Students’ Union ‘What’s On’ page – don’t miss out by not reserving your place early on! If you need any support to enhance your academic experience, pop into the Students’ Union offices and we will be more than happy to help wherever we can. Or maybe you have something different in mind? If you have an activity or skills session that you would like to take part in, please do not hesitate to get in touch! We love hearing your ideas and providing opportunities that you want! Contact us at surecactivities@bnu.ac.uk or pop in and see us in the Student’s Union offices! We look forward to seeing you all on as many activities as possible this term!
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KETS HER TIC E!
B E F 2 Y FRIDA
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E U N E M HE V A 3 O T PM
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Events calendar | Monday 29 January – Sunday 11 February
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Have an idea for an event, want to arrange a takeover, or feedback for our events team? You can get in contact with the team by dropping an email to; events@bnu.ac.uk
January edition 114
Wed 31
Sat 3
Mon 5
Thu 8
Our biggest ever guest is coming to Bucks! We have some breaking news…The Venue is opening its doors for some VERY exciting events! Drum roll, please. VIKKSTAR is coming to Bucks! Yes, that’s right, the Sidemen member and YouTube sensation is putting on an epic DJ set just for you! On Friday 2 February 2024, starting at 10pm, The Venue will come alive with Vikkstar’s electrifying performance. As one of the most renowned personalities in the gaming and entertainment industry, Vikkstar is sure to captivate The Venue. Mark your calendars and get ready for an epic night as Vikkstar takes on Bucks’s best venue! Join us as we open our doors with Room 1 playing Commercial bangers and Room 2 celebrating with Hip Hop/RnB and Afrobeats. As always, this event is free to Bucks students, thanks to The Big Deal, therefore, there is no reason not to attend. As we are expecting this event to be busy, students can reserve a ticket for guaranteed entry before 11pm. To top this weekend off, on Saturday 3 February 2024 we have the biggest karaoke night in High Wycombe with DJ Pez! Grab your friends and head to The Lounge as you prepare to sing your heart out to all the classic karaoke hits. From Whitney Housten to Elton John, DJ Pez covers all the greatest songs for you to dance to all night long! The Six Nations is just around the corner and we can barely contain our excitement! Bring your friends down to The Lounge to catch every tackle and watch the ultimate rugby test. On top of this, we offer the cheapest food and drinks in High Wycombe so there really is no excuse. At The Venue we strive to make the student experience unforgettable without breaking the bank account. That is why each event is free for students and alumni.
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14
Safe Place Project | IWD Fest
The Bucks Student By Jenaya-Nicole Hackshaw | Sophie Poole
Your Venue has just become even more safe, thanks to the Safe Place Project.
Who are this organisation and what are they trying to achieve? The Egalitarian was started with the aim to ensure that venues are given the right tools to deal with spiking, sexual harassment and abuse allegations. They also provide advice to venues on their written policies. They offer communityled and data-driven certification to provide a holistic, wide-ranging training programme
How many people attended the training? And what did it include?
What does our venue being a ‘Safe Space’ mean?
27 members of the Bar and Ents department attended the training. Their training focusses on effective identification, prevention and victim-focussed response systems to tackle inappropriate and unacceptable behaviours that are seen regularly on a night out. Effective allyship was discussed, showing people how to intervene in situations in a way that is safe for everyone and doesn’t risk a situation getting worse. We also learnt overt and covert intervention techniques to suit everyone.
The venue being a Safe Space means that we proactively stand with victims and are here to support them and be a listening ear with no judgment. Our staff and management now have more training tools to seek out potential perpetrators, to keep all as safe as we possibly can. What are the benefits to our members? Our members will feel empowered to come forward with any potential issues, knowing that we have the procedures and processes in place to deal with situations.
IWD FEST
On Saturday 9 March 2024, the day after International Women’s Day, Speakeasy and LOUD WOMEN have joined together to bring you a day of indie goodness, at The Venue, to showcase talented bands/artists with women at their heart. This event is not only a showcase of fantastic talent, but it shall also serve to generate well-needed funds and publicity for SAASSBMK (Sexual Assault and Abuse Support Service Buckinghamshire & Milton Keynes). We have scouted the very best indie artists from all around the country to bring you a wide range of music ensuring there is something for everyone. For tickets and more information please scan the QR code to the left, or check out the poster on the right!
15 January edition 114
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Volunteering and RAG
The Bucks Student By Kelly Wiles
Volunteering A belated Happy New Year to you all! Although December was a short month for us all, we kept busy by getting creative. We have made bug and bee houses, got all festive by decorating Baubles, selling Christmas cards, and decorating gingerbread. We had students heading to Ryeview Manor, the local care home to spread some Christmas joy and have some craft sessions with the residents. For the first time this year we have got involved with our RAG charity and headed to Stokenchurch Dog Rescue, although the weather was cold that was all forgotten when getting to meet and care for the dogs. We will be making this a regular volunteering opportunity so keep an eye on the What’s on page. Bronze Volunteering Award: Will Johnson Tasha Noble Sophie Lloyd-Rossi Lucy Holmes Reece Newey Camille Da Fonseca Teixeira Jack Spencer Silver Volunteering Award: Sophie Lloyd-Rossi Reece Newey Gold Volunteering Award: Rafael Pantaleon Platinum Volunteering Award: Patrick Fillingham
RAG week 2 RAG stands for Raise and Give, this is the area of the Union that raises money for charity. Each year we focus on local charities which you get to vote on, so the power is really in your hands. RAG simply wouldn’t be a success without the commitment and dedication of our members who organise and manage our fundraising events. Thanks to you all for voting earlier in the year, our RAG charity Stokenchurch Dog Rescue was confirmed as our charity for the year. We have a great range of activities running throughout the week. Monday 29 Jan – Soak A Sabb Dive into the ultimate splash-filled fun at our “Soak a Sabb” Charity Event! Join us for an unforgettable day of watery antics, laughter, and camaraderie, all while supporting a fantastic cause. Get ready to soak your student leaders in the most refreshing way possible! Come and join us in the SU garden at noon.
Tuesday 30 Jan – Bucks FC Gear up for a thrilling twist on philanthropy with our “Wax a Footballer” Charity Event! This unique and entertaining fundraiser invites you to witness your favourite footballers experience the smoothest moves of their careers – literally! Get ready for a day of laughter, camaraderie, and the sweet satisfaction of making a positive impact. Tuesday 30 Jan – Volley for RAG Dive into the world of philanthropy and volleyball with our “Volley for RAG” Charity Tournament! Join us for a evening of highflying serves, powerful spikes, and friendly competition—all in the spirit of supporting a meaningful cause. It’s time to bump, set, and spike our way to making a positive impact! Come and join us in the Events hall at 6pm. Wednesday 31 Jan – Wild Wild West Frat Friday – 2 February – Pie a Netballer Attention netball enthusiasts and cheeky do-gooders! Get ready for the most delicious event of the year – the “Pie a Netballer” Charity Extravaganza! We’re serving up a slice of laughter and a dollop of goodwill, all in the spirit of supporting a great cause, noon in the SU Garden.
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Why Volunteer?
January edition 114 By Kelly Wiles
Why should I
volunteer?!
As the volunteer coordinator, I am asked this question by lecturers, students, and staff. Volunteering might seem pointless; it is unpaid, and it takes time away from you. It might seem like another thing to do in an already packed schedule with studies and more than likely a job to pay your bills.
So why should you volunteer? I have volunteered for most of my life, and it has taken me in all different directions and has helped me grow as a person, personally and professionally. I have been the volunteer and I have been the manager of volunteers and helping them with their journey. Volunteering can take you on a path you may never have thought of, it could also lead you to doors that may have been harder to open without volunteering. Volunteering is a powerful tool to use, here is a few things you can gain when volunteering; Building a Sense of Community: Volunteering allows you to connect with local communities and foster a sense of belonging. By actively participating in community service, you will develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those around them.
All of our volunteering opportunities can be found in the Volunteer portal or on the What’s on page at bucksstudentsunion.org.
Enhancing Social Skills: Volunteer work often involves collaboration and teamwork, providing you with an opportunity to develop and enhance their social skills. Whether it’s working on a group project or interacting with diverse populations, you will learn to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and appreciate different perspectives.
Personal Growth and SelfDiscovery: Engaging in volunteer activities exposes you to new experiences and challenges, fostering personal growth and self-discovery. As you step out of your comfort zones, you will often discover hidden talents, strengths, and interests that may not be evident within the confines of a classroom. Resume Building and Career Development: Volunteering is a valuable addition to a student’s resume. Employers often look for candidates who not only possess academic qualifications but also demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and community involvement. Volunteer experiences can set you apart in a competitive job market and provide real-world examples of skills and qualities employers seek. Academic Enhancement: Volunteering complements classroom learning by providing practical, hands-on experiences. You may apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, reinforcing your understanding of academic concepts. Additionally, volunteer work can inspire students to explore new academic paths and career possibilities aligned with their newfound interests.
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Bucks MT society
The Bucks Student By Marissa Leyden
Keeping up with...
Bucks MT society Term 1 for Bucks MT has been jam-packed, full of exciting performance opportunities, volunteering, fundraising and more, so we have decided to share with you some of our favourites.
November/December time was especially busy for us, but we wouldn’t have it any other way! Bucks MT performed a Christmas medley on stage for the High Wycombe annual Christmas lights switch on event! Followed by a busy “Christmas Tour” to spread some Christmas cheer to people living in retirement homes around High Wycombe, followed by some Busking performed in the atrium raising money for RAG. With our final performance opportunity being our first showcase fundraiser of the year named “In the Spotlight” where members were given the opportunity to put themselves forward for solo and duo performances which ultimately went down a treat and the event was a delightful ending to 2023.
Starting the New Year off with a big bang! Bucks MT Society hosted a Takeover in the Venue on Wednesday the 17 January titled “Once upon a time…” this whimsically themed takeover consisted of two performances by our members, who worked tremendously together in bringing the performances to life, despite the struggles and stress of deadlines and exams. Altogether, the society was able to raise £242.81 - which is being used towards a trip to see a West End production. As much as the society has worked incredibly hard as a team, they have also had the opportunity to let off steam through Wednesday night socials, that always have a different dressing up theme. Socials have been a great way for members to be able to socialise outside of sessions and have helped build stronger bonds between individuals.
We are looking forward to what is next to come, and we have a lot planned so keep your eyes and ears peeled… Don’t forget it is never too late to join a club or society! So if you have an interest in Musical Theatre and are wanting to join, or find out more about our society, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us either via our Instagram @bucksmtsociety or any of our Committee members whose contact details are available through our webpage on bucksstudentsunion.org/ organisation/9816
19
International Students society
January edition 114 By Rishabh Jindal, Mohit Nayal, Preeti Kumari, Randeep Puri
International Students Society: Bridging Cultures, Nurturing Success In the vibrant tapestry of our university, the International Students Society stands as a beacon of support and connection for students from around the globe. Committed to fostering an inclusive environment, the society plays a crucial role in helping international students navigate the intricacies of university life. One of its primary focuses is spreading awareness about essential university resources and services, ensuring that every student can make the most of their academic journey. Library Resources Unveiled The International Students Society has taken a proactive stance in guiding new international students on how to access and utilise the university’s extensive library resources. Understanding the importance of academic materials, ALL THE INTERNATIONAL S T U D Ethe N T Ssociety provides step-by-step assistance on issuing books and accessing laptops for free from the library. These initiatives aim to ensure that no student is left unaware of the invaluable resources available at their fingertips.
WELCOME
Study Spaces and Event Navigation Navigating the expansive library can be daunting, but the International Students Society alleviates this concern by guiding students on how to book study rooms. The committee members are readily available to assist in this process, ensuring that students have access to conducive study environments. Furthermore, the International Students Society excels in disseminating information about university events. From free to paid events, the society ensures that international students are aware of the myriad opportunities to engage with campus life. Through workshops and information sessions, students learn how to view, book, and attend events, enriching their university experience. Career Guidance and Learning Support Recognising the importance of holistic student development, the International Students Society emphasises the existence of dedicated teams within the university. The society actively raises awareness about the careers team, guiding students towards valuable resources for professional growth. Simultaneously, the Student Learning Achievement (SLA) team is spotlighted, encouraging students to utilise the support available for academic excellence.
Active and Supportive Committee Members The International Students Society owes its success to the dedicated committee members who go above and beyond to assist their fellow students. Always available and approachable, the committee members play a pivotal role in ensuring that no query goes unanswered. Their commitment to helping international students is reflected in the society’s success in creating a supportive community. Celebrating Diversity through Events Beyond academic assistance, the International Students Society is renowned for organising vibrant cultural festivals and themed nights, such as Bollywood nights. The society actively welcomes multicultural event ideas, embodying the spirit of diversity and inclusion. These events not only celebrate the richness of different cultures but also provide students with opportunities to forge lasting friendships and create cherished memories.
20 The Bucks Student
BNU Swimming | BNU Netball
By Patrick Fillingham | Jorja Fulford, Megan Holloway
Success for BNU Swim November 2023 had BUCS National Short Course competition where we had 5 swimmers compete. Competition started on Friday 17th November in Sheffield’s Ponds Forge International Sports Centre. Saturday our Open Team had its debut swim in the 4x100m Freestyle, absolutely smashing their heat and finishing with clear water between them and second. This amazing swim sent them into the finals later that day. They swam another amazing time in the finals placing them 19th out of all British Universities!
Sunday was the final day of racing, and our Open Team swam their 4x100m Medley. Unfortunately, the competition was tough, and they just missed out on a place in the finals. But throughout the whole weekend we had some great racing from each individual and we represented BNU and Bucks Students Union at a National level, which is something to be proud of.
BUCS National Long Course is coming up in February, follow us on Instagram @bucks_swimming to get live updates!
BNU Netball Three words that I would use to describe my experience with Bucks Netball is Fun, Friendly, and Supportive. Being a commuting student in my first year, I wanted to join a club to meet new people and make friends! From the start everyone has been so welcoming, and I have met lots of like-minded people in a range of different years and courses. Both the committee and our coach, Louise, make sure everyone is involved no matter the ability, whist also improving our netball ability and tactics. The sessions are a great mix of player development and laughter!
As a player who has played for many years, I always learn something new within training and honestly feel It has already developed my confidence as both a player and a person. Playing in competitive games for the first team, the atmosphere is always buzzing with support from both the team and supporters. Everyone wants to win which shows in our games, but also everyone is there to have fun which creates this enthusiastic atmosphere! I have really enjoyed my first 6 weeks as part of Bucks Netball and am excited for our future games and winning Varsity!!
21
Paramedicine
January edition 114 By Paige Hamilton
Here to save your lives! In its second year within Bucks Students’ Union, the Paramedicine Society is delighted to announce a remarkable 20% increase in our membership since last year—an achievement that greatly boosts our society. The Paramedicine Society is dedicated to academically supporting our students and offering valuable insights into emergency medicine for all its members. Our inclusive society welcomes members from various academic backgrounds, aiming to embrace a diverse range of medical experiences.
We would also like to say a BIG THANK YOU to all the students who came to support our 999 Takeover event at the student’s union that occurred on the 8th November 2023. We were able to host a successful bingo and managed to raise over £100 for our society. This money enables us to source out more CPD events for our members and allows us to grow more as a society. We have upcoming CPD events for all members/students who want to increase their knowledge and expertise. Some exciting upcoming CPD events are mentioned below:
So, let’s look at what’s coming up for us this year and what we’ve already achieved! We are collaborating closely with the Essex and Hertfordshire Air Ambulance Base and are in the process of organizing a visit to the airbase in late February/early March. Our experience with them last year was fantastic, and they are excited to welcome us back this year! During the trip, we will delve into the history of the airbase, understand their mission, and have the opportunity to witness emergency helicopters responding to calls. In addition to our visit, we are gearing up to host a fundraising event for them later this year. Stay tuned for our ‘PARAFIT’ fundraising campaign!
Mark Whitbread, a Consultant Paramedic, who specialises in cardiology is coming into our High Wycombe Campus on the 28th February 2024 to deliver an intensive ECG bootcamp running from 10am to 3pm. This bootcamp is widely recognised within the College of Paramedics and will be incredibly insightful to all students who need to touch up on their ECG and cardiology knowledge.
Hazardous Area Response Team CPD event - 16 January 2024. We are very fortunate to say that HART Paramedic, Josh Staniland, has agreed to come into the High Wycombe campus to deliver a CPD presentation about his profession and provide us with useful insight into CBRN agents as well as help to increase our knowledge of different aspects of emergency medicine. Josh Staniland is an experienced paramedic within the London Ambulance Service Hazardous Area Response Team, dedicated to providing NHS paramedic care to patients in austere environments. Joshua has specialist knowledge of delivering healthcare in CBRN/ HAZMAT, confined space, inland water and MTA environments.
We take pride in sharing our accomplishments and aim to persist on this journey of development within Bucks Students’ Union.
22
Bucks Women’s FC
The Bucks Student By Keisha Ruff
BUCKS
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL CLUB Since joining BNU in 2023, I’ve joined the Women’s Football club and from the minute I joined it felt like a family. I was able to approach everyone within the team, especially the committee and have a laugh with them from the get go. As a club, the best social we’ve done was going to Wembley to watch the Lionesses and I can’t
even put that day into words it was that amazing! Even in training with our coach Gemma, we all have a laugh and as aforementioned, it feels like a family. 2 months into joining the team, I’ve become Vice Captain which was a massive achievement for me. The transition into committee was very easy, everyone was welcoming and helped me whenever I needed it and vice versa. It became a close
team/family that I have loved being a part of. It’s been good knowing what’s happening behind the scenes and attending meetings to know what’s coming up ahead for the future of this club. I can’t wait to see what else this club has in store for the future.
23
Wycombe Wanderers Football Club
January edition 114 By Neil Peters
NEW YEAR, NEW HOPE AT ADAMS PARK 2024 burst into life at Wycombe Wanderers with a stunning 3-2 victory and post-match firework display which set the tone for what everyone hopes and believes will be a prosperous and entertaining year ahead for the football club – an official partner of Buckinghamshire New University. The team, managed by club legend Matt Bloomfield, has been strengthened with a handful of new recruits including non-league goalscoring sensation Richard Kone, who netted on his debut in a Bristol Street Motors Trophy victory which leaves the Blues just two wins from a final at Wembley Stadium. Wanderers also look forward to bumper crowds for big home games against promotion-chasing Peterborough, Oxford, Portsmouth and Derby in the second half of the season, while the Community Day fixture against Northampton on 16th March – sponsored by the university – will showcase plenty of club partners and bring together fans new and old with a series of special activities. Off the field, the club’s sustainability work in tackling climate change will be showcased over the Green Football Weekend fixtures on 27th January and 3rd February, while a research project – a collaboration between the club and university – into the experiences of women at football matches will come to light ahead of International Women’s Day in March. The club will also be supporting the Eden Shopping Centre’s Green Eden week in half-term in February, helping children learn all about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and making the right choices for a healthy planet, with players set to attend.
Later in the year, the launch of the new Sky Sports television deal will propel Wycombe Wanderers – along with all EFL clubs – into the homes of many more football fans across the world, thanks to a huge increased in televised EFL fixtures throughout the season. This will not only expand the club’s global reach but also that of its partners, sponsors and advertisers across the stadium. The club continues to engage with the university and its students on many levels, including providing opportunities for students in medical and sports science positions, matchday media opportunities, filming projects and more, while there are countless job opportunities for students looking for casual work on matchdays and events in catering, bar work and stewarding. Meanwhile, female students have the chance to train and play for Wycombe Wanderers Women, who are enjoying a strong season in the Southern Region Women’s Football League Premier Division. They train on Thursday evenings and play their matches on Sundays at Burnham FC, and operate a first-team squad, development squad and under-18 squad. We’d also love to see as many students and staff as possible at Adams Park on home matchdays, supporting your local team and being part of a journey that we hope will take us up the leagues and onto bigger and better things, benefitting not just the club but the entire town and community. Do check out the website and social media channels to keep up with all the news and ticket details.
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