The Bucks Student: Edition 122 by Bucks Students' Union

Pile

Wren Sell

Harry Tomlinson

HELLO EVERYONE!

A new month brings fresh opportunities and a chance to reset, refocus, and take care of yourself. Whether you’re pushing through deadlines, settling into new routines, or just taking things one step at a time, we know this time of year can be a mix of challenges and achievements. That’s why this issue is packed with content to support you, from finding balance in your studies to prioritising well-being, because looking after yourself should always come first.

For many, this month holds great significance. Ramadan takes place throughout March, a time of reflection, community, and spiritual growth. Whether you’re observing it yourself or supporting friends who are, let’s make sure we show kindness, understanding, and encouragement to one another.

It’s also a huge month for sports, Varsity is here. If you’ve got your tickets, get ready for an incredible experience. Let’s bring the energy, the spirit, and of course… Go BUCKS!

And finally, it’s election week. This is your chance to shape the future of your Students’ Union, so make sure to cast your vote. Your voice matters, and your vote can make a real difference.

Enjoy the issue, take care of yourself, and let’s make this month a great one.

Amy, Wren, Harry and Beth

Contributors

Emily Wardale • Kelly Wiles • Izzy • Hattie • Imogen Sanders

Helen Wibley • Kacie Carr • Hannah Jackson • Ethan Robinson

Want to see your name in the list above? Want to have your writing or artwork on show to thousands of people? Get involved!

Email lorenzo.dizenobbia@bnu.ac.uk

For all advertising and media enquiries please contact the Students’ Union Communications and Marketing department.

Simon McDowell | Head of Communications and Marketing simon.mcdowell@bnu.ac.uk

Lorenzo Pio Di Zenobbia | Graphic Designer lorenzo.dizenobbia@bnu.ac.uk

Ajay Sunder | Marketing Coordinator ajay.sunder@bnu.ac.uk

Ian Tuazon | Digital Marketing Coordinator ian.tuazon@bnu.ac.uk

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

Amy Pile • Bethany Jackson • Jasmine Dos Santos Collett If

Merchandise

Keeping you stylish on campus with our timeless and colourful design

Monday 3 March 10am to Friday 7 March at noon

bucksstudentsunion.org/elections

Hi everyone!

I hope you’re all doing well. I know this time of year can be busy with dissertations, assignments, and exams, so this is just a reminder to take breaks, look after yourselves, and contact us if you need any support.

We are continuously working to ensure that student voices are heard and that meaningful improvements are made to enhance student life. One of the key areas we are focusing on is the availability of rentable laptops. For students facing financial difficulties, access to a laptop is essential for their studies. We believe there should be an option to loan a laptop for the duration of a student’s time at university, providing much-needed support and ensuring no one is left without the tools they need to succeed, which is why we shall lobby to the university for this.

Amy Pile

President

amy.pile@bnu.ac.uk @buckssupres

Bucks SU Pres BucksSUPres

Another area we are keen to support its development is the MyBNU app. There is so much more potential for this platform to serve students better, from enabling ID scanning to providing easy access to payment schedules for those who do not receive student finance. By streamlining these features into one app, students wouldn’t have to download multiple platforms, saving time and storage space on their devices.

We are also exploring the idea of welcome baskets for students moving into halls. Arriving at university can be an exciting but overwhelming experience, and for those who arrive late at night, access to essentials isn’t always guaranteed. A small welcome pack with useful amenities could make all the difference in helping students settle in comfortably.

Wi-Fi in University accommodation has been a hot topic, and we are lobbying for emergency Dongles to be available in the event Wi-Fi fails. This is in early stages of discussions, and we shall keep you informed.

Finally, campus safety remains a priority. We are pushing for better CCTV coverage and improved lighting in darker areas to create a safer environment for all students. Feeling secure on campus is crucial, and we want to ensure that students feel comfortable and protected, no matter the time of day.

These are just a few of the discussions we are having with the university, and we will continue to advocate for the changes that matter most to students. Your feedback is always valued, so please keep sharing your thoughts with us.

While we focus on what’s happening within the university, it’s also important to stay informed about national news that could impact students. Here are some key topics we’re keeping an eye on.

Big Changes Coming for Student Renters –But Are They Good News?

If you’re renting privately while studying, there’s a big shake-up on the way. The Renter’s Reform Bill is moving through Parliament, and while it promises to improve tenant rights, it could cause serious headaches for students.This breakdown is based on an analysis from WonkHE, which highlights how the bill could impact student renters.

Who are WonkHE?

WonkHE is a leading platform for higher education policy, news, and analysis in the UK, providing insights for university staff, policymakers, and student leaders.

What’s Changing?

The bill will ban ‘no-fault’ evictions, introduce a landlord ombudsman, and make it easier to rent with pets. Rent increases will also be limited to once a year, and landlords won’t be able to demand more than one month’s rent upfront. Sounds good, right? Well… not so fast.

How Could This Affect Students?

Some of these changes aren’t designed with students in mind, and that could create chaos in the student housing market. Here’s why:

• Guarantors and International Students: The government still supports landlords asking for guarantors, meaning international students could still face extra hurdles or higher costs.

• Shorter Tenancy Notice Periods: Students will be able to give just two months’ notice, which could make landlords nervous. Some might start tenancies later in the year (June or July instead of September), making it even harder to secure a place.

• Evictions Over Summer: Landlords renting to students could now evict tenants over the summer. This might be fine for some, but what about students on longer courses or January start dates?

• Rent Hikes Between Tenants: While landlords can’t raise rent mid-tenancy beyond market rates, they can still hike the price between tenants, so expect rent to jump each year.

• No Termly Rent Payments: Unlike Scotland, where student loans are paid monthly, England’s system means many students rely on termly payments. Without an option for termly rent, students may struggle to cover costs at the end of each term.

What About Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)?

The bill focuses on private landlords, meaning PBSA properties won’t be affected. But that could mean fewer protections for students in halls, pushing more students into private rentals, which could drive up demand and prices.

What Happens Next?

The bill is still being debated in the Lords, so there’s a chance for changes to be made. However, as it stands, students could be left facing confusion, higher costs, and more uncertainty.

Inflation and Cost of Living

The UK has recorded its highest inflation rate in ten months, as the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 3% in January. This increase is driven by higher costs in essentials such as food, energy, and services, which may affect students’ budgets and financial planning. It’s advisable to review your expenses and seek support if you’re experiencing financial difficulties.

Student Finance Applications for 2025-2026

Applications for full-time undergraduate student finance for the 2025 to 2026 academic year are set to open by late March. Both new and continuing students must apply early to ensure timely processing of financial support. You can scan QR code below sign up for updates and find more information on the official Student Finance England website.

Be Part of Shaping the Future for Disabled Students

Are you a student with a disability? Here’s your chance to get involved in an exciting initiative that could make a real difference in how our university supports disabled students.

The university is working towards signing up for the Disabled Student Commitment with AdvanceHE, and we’re looking for 5-10 students with disabilities to join our Specialist Advisory Board. As a member, you will play an important role in shaping policies and practices to improve the university experience for disabled students.

What’s in it for you?

• Recognition:

You’ll be credited in the published action plan and audit document on the university website.

• Enhance your portfolio: A great addition to your CV and future opportunities.

• Impact: Help shape the university’s strategy for supporting disabled students.

• Public Speaking: Opportunity to present to the University Council and other key stakeholders.

• Skills Development: Build valuable skills that will support your personal and professional growth.

If you’re interested in being part of this important work, please get in touch with me at amy.pile@bnu.ac.uk or charlotte. stewart@bnu.ac.uk for more information.

This is a unique opportunity to make your voice heard and contribute to lasting change.

We’d love to hear from you!

We’ll be keeping a close eye on developments and fighting for student rights to be recognised. If you have concerns or need advice, get in touch with your Students’ Union. We’re here to help.

I’m pleased to share that free parking for students is being introduced at the High Wycombe Campus! This has been an issue for students long before I joined the University in 2020, and I know how much this will mean to so many of you. Even though this was one of my manifesto points, the credit goes to all the past and current students who have campaigned for this over the years. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and sometimes not even within the time you’re at university, but your voices have made a lasting impact. This is something you should all be proud of.

A huge thank you to the University and everyone who worked hard to make this happen especially Paul Morgan (Pro-Vice Chancellor, Education) and the estates team. It was great to be part of the University’s commuting students working group with Tristan Tipping (CEO), ensuring that student voices were heard and acted on.

For more details on parking, here’s the communication shared today on MyBNU from your Vice-Chancellor, Professor Damien Page.

“I wrote to you on my first day as your new Vice-Chancellor. I’m two weeks in now and want to let you know that I’m introducing a free parking pilot for students at BNU, in response to feedback from commuting students.

The pilot starts on Monday 3rd March in car park C at the High Wycombe campus. Access is from Queen Alexandra Road, just up from the hospital:

• Free parking will be first-come, firstserved from 7 am to 10 pm Monday to Friday. Parking will be excluded outside these times to adhere to Buckinghamshire Council’s rules around noise abatement.

• At the weekend, between 7 am and 10 pm, students can park in car park D (next to the Owen Harris building).

• No permits are required. Just tap your student ID card to open the barriers.

• Students with electric vehicles will be able to use our chargers for the first time.

• All accessible bays will remain in car park C.

• Car Parks A and D are for visitors and staff only from Monday to Friday - you will receive a penalty notice if you park there, as detailed on the signage.

We’re talking with the SU about plans for Uxbridge which will follow shortly.

The High Wycombe pilot is just one of the ways the University works together with Bucks Students’ Union to act upon what you tell us. We want all students to realise the full benefits of their university experience, and we’ll be reviewing the pilot to help us plan opportunities at other campus locations.

We’re proud to be the principal funder of the SU and of the great work it does. Last year, our £1.9 million grant funded The Big Deal as well as the Union’s staffing and operational costs.

And I hope you’ve seen the four new mini busses the University has funded on top of the SU’s grant, ensuring you travel to and from all co-curricula and social activities in comfort!

The SU toilets in the Venue will also be refurbished this year – I was sorry to hear that previous requests to update them had been ignored but I’ve made sure it’s now a priority.

Please keep sharing your feedback –I want to hear your ideas about how we can make BNU better.”

- Damien

We hope this will be a huge benefit to those of you who will use the parking, and we look forward to seeing even more positive changes that continue to make BNU the best place for you. As always, if there’s anything you need, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your Students’ Union.

The Big Sleepout

On a freezing night at Adams Park, I was joined by two students as we took part in The Big Sleep, an event that raises awareness and funds for Wycombe Homeless Connection. And let me tell you, it was very cold!

Despite the chilly temperatures, we stuck it out and, thanks to the generosity of those who supported us, we managed to raise an amazing £338 for this vital cause. This money will go towards helping people experiencing homelessness in our community, providing essential support and services when they need it most.

A huge thank you to everyone who donated and backed us, it does make a difference.

A BIG win for students

11:30am to 2:00pm,

10:00am to 5:00pm

Highlights of the Week: Harold’s Hydration Campaign

To kick off the week, Harry and Emily from The Student Hub will be at Varsity Hockey on Sunday 9 March, handing out water as part of Harold’s Hydration. This campaign encourages students to stay hydrated as a form of self-care. Staying hydrated improves concentration, regulates body temperature, and supports skin health.

Daily

Events:

Monday 10 March: Celebrate International Women’s Day with a special event featuring Thames Valley Police discussing the history of women in policing, as well as talks on women’s safety in the Atrium as well as The Student Hub and Students’ Union providing a table of crafts, including anxiety bracelets, take a break from your studies and join us for a chat from 11:30am to 1:30pm.

Money and Mind Week

Get ready for a week of exciting events and activities designed to help you manage your money, improve your mental well-being, and have some fun! From Monday 10 March to Friday 14 March, The Student Hub and Bucks Students’ Union are teaming up for Money and Mind Week, a week packed with events focused on self-care, financial awareness, and student wellbeing.

All the events will be on the What’s On page with further details.

HAROLD’S HYDRATION INTRODUCING

The Shopping Basket Challenge

Throughout the week, students can participate in The Shopping Basket Challenge at the Student Hub. Several baskets filled with a mix of items from Aldi, Marks & Spencer, and Sainsbury’s brand will be on display.

The task is simple: guess the total cost of each basket. The student with the closest guess wins the basket of goodies! It’s a fun way to learn about budgeting and saving money.

Tuesday 11 March: It’s time for a fresh look with Buckin Buzzin, a free haircut service provided by local barbers at The Venue.

Wednesday 12 March: It’s Varsity Day!

Join the competition as Bucks sports teams battle against Roehampton for the Roebuck Trophy. Harry and some volunteers will be handing out water around campus as part of Harold’s Hydration, while back at the Student Hub, you can pick up resources on the benefits of staying hydrated.

Thursday 13 March: Students in High Wycombe can try their luck at Spin the Wheel from 12pm to 2pm for a chance to win a variety of freebies, including supermarket vouchers, toiletries, gym memberships, and well-being boxes.

Friday 14 March: Spin the Wheel will also be in Uxbridge from 11am to 1pm, and don’t forget, we’ll announce the winners of The Shopping Basket Challenge!

Free Fitness Classes

Throughout the week, the gym will be hosting Fit for Free sessions, perfect for those who want to try out classes without committing to a membership. Simply sign up for a Fit for Free membership and enjoy classes like Dance Fit, Yogalates, Pilates, and Zumba. You will sign up at the Gym.

Don’t miss out on:

• Mon 10 Mar: Dance Fit from 6:10pm to 6:55pm

• Tues 11 Mar: Yogalates from 12:15pm to 1pm

• Wed 13 Mar: Rig Fit Hang Tuff from 12:15pm to 1pm

• Fri 14 Mar: Boot Camp from 6:30pm to 7:15am, Pilates from 12:15pm to 1pm, and Zumba from 5:15pm to 6pm

Activities and Feedback

Hello everyone, it has been a busy few weeks with many more to come with exciting events taking place over the next few (STRIVE, Varsity, Break the Stigma, and more!) I continue to keep working and pushing to make life better for students at Bucks!

As a recap over the last few weeks:

Saturday 1 February saw 39 students join us as we Boycotted Our Beds to raise vital funds for Wycombe Homeless Connections. The charity operate in the South Buckinghamshire area and support individuals with the harm homelessness can cause. We raised £478! A massive thank you to everyone who donated and took part in the event.

Kitting Out Wellbeing has been running since December. This campaign focuses on supporting you to support your wellbeing. You can collect your free wellbeing kit from any student union space. This kit is designed as a starter kit for you to personalise. Filled with signposting services, self-help strategies, and goodies to start off building your self-care wellbeing kit. You can email bethany.jackson@bnu.ac.uk if you’d like to arrange a collection too!

Bethany Jackson

Vice President President Education and Welfare (Uxbridge and Aylesbury)

bethany.jackson@bnu.ac.uk

@buckssuvpew_au

Bucks VPEW UxAyls

Being Safe Online

Tuesday 11 February was Safer Internet Day. In collaboration with DTS, we are sharing tips, facts and information about staying safe online. You can read the article on the website or on page 14. But you can also check out more tips and tricks here:

KITTING OUT WELLBEING

If you have any questions, please reach out to DTS or us.

CHAIRS

I have been working various university stakeholders to ensure that students studying at the Uxbridge campus have seats during their teaching sessions. We are still waiting on a delivery date from the university, but chairs are being ordered.

Heating at Aylesbury

Feedback received shared that the temperature controls for the Aylesbury campus were controlled from the High Wycombe campus. I can now say that the with your feedback, the university have acted so that temperatures can now be controlled from the Aylesbury campus.

Quiet Space

This was one of my manifesto points heading into my term as an Elected Officer, and whilst there has been delays, I can share that there is news and a paper I shared with various stakeholders at the university have shared that there are plans to look at the current provision of quiet spaces across the campuses, and what this can look like instead. If you have any views, opinions, or involvement, please do get in touch.

Southern SU Conference

Myself and the other Elected Officers spent some time away at Southern Students’ Unions Conference. This was a 2-day conference hosted by the UEA(SU) where we had the opportunity to network with other officers from around the South of England, hear from SU staff about the work they are doing, and work on national projects too. This was a great experience to be had and I took away a lot of information, which I can apply in the coming weeks.

Time to Talk Day

In collaboration with the Student Hub and Multi-Faith Chaplaincy, we hosted Time to Talk Day across all 3 campuses. Students could collect a wellbeing box, grab a free hot drink, make a bracelet and chat. This provided a space for students to have a conversation. Whilst the national day, which took place on Thursday 6 February, is about encouraging conversations around mental health, we encouraged students to also speak to each other.

Thur 6 Feb 2025

Time to Talk Day

In terms of what’s coming up

Quiet Space: I am continuing my work on the quiet space provision. This involves working with various university stakeholders to see what this space could look like, where it would be based, who’d look after it. If you have any suggestions or views you’d like shared, please feedback.

Break the Stigma: This campaign is about joining the national movement about breaking the stigma around mental health. This campaign is taking place across Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Uxbridge, where you can get involved by visiting any of our stalls. Check out the website for where these will be and when:

• High Wycombe: Atrium and SU foyer

• Aylesbury: ground floor and second floor

• Uxbridge: Pulse and Third floor

Show support to those with a mental health diagnosis and help break the stigma!

Get Bucks Talking!

Activities

We are running activities in Aylesbury and Uxbridge throughout the week, be sure to head towards the SU spaces to see what’s on and how to get involved. Bracelet making remains a popular activity across campuses, but which others did you want to?

We have Table Tennis available at both Uxbridge and Aylesbury, as well as board games. We have also run bingo sessions, pamper sessions, drinks, and cheese sessions, and free hot drinks and chats sessions across lunchtimes. You can also suggest activities too. (check out the QR codes around the campus to submit).

University Mental Health Day and Student Money week: Thursday 13th March is ‘University Mental Health Day’, and the week is also Student Money week.

In collaboration with Elected Officer campaigns, Student Voice Officer campaigns, the Student Hub, and the university Counselling and Mental Health team, we are running a week of activities to support wellbeing and mental health around various aspects, such as studying, money, sports, and awareness. This week is taking place from Monday 10 March –Friday 14th March, keep an eye for the full schedule of the week. There is lots of get involved with across all campuses.

Be sure to keep checking the What’s On Page, socials and the boards at the campuses to see what you can get involved and any news. As always, please reach out if you need anything or want to chat. There is much planned and much taking place too. Be sure to follow along on socials too!

This is a day about encouraging each other to talk and have conversations about mental health, whether you have a conversation with your family, friends or colleagues, we’re

Staying Safe Online

SCAM ALERT!

Did you know that university students are frequent targets for online scams? From year book offer emails, personalised hoodie offers to phishing emails posing as your student loan provider, scammers are constantly finding new ways to trick people. Don’t let them fool you!

Tuesday 11 February marks

Safer Internet Day, an international initiative that started in 2004 as part of the EU SafeBorders project and was later adopted by the Insafe Network in 2005. The event now raises awareness worldwide about online safety and each year focuses on a key theme.

For 2025 the theme is, “Too Good to be true? Protecting yourself and others from scams online.”

This highlights the growing issue of online scams, personal experiences and strategies to combat them.

We are here to share key facts, risks and best practices for staying safe online –particularly for university students who are frequently target by online scams.

What is Online Safety?

Online safety, also known as cyber safety, refers to being aware of potential threats while engaging in digital activities and taking steps to protect personal data and well-being.

Common Online risks for University Students

Have you encountered any of these risks before?

• Phishing and Smishing: Fraudulent emails or texts aiming to steal personal detials

• Scams and Fraud: Fake job offers, loans scams, ticket fraud

• Stalking and Harassment: Online bullying, persisted unwanted contact

• Threats and Abuse: Cyber bullying, blackmail or intimidation

• Hate speech and Inappropriate Content: Violent, offensive material / conversations

• Sextortion and Online impersonation: Coercion into sharing explicit content, fraudulent identities

• AI deepfakes: manipulated images, videos or audio designed to deceive you

How scammers operate and how to stay safe

Phishing and Smishing: How malicious actors trick you

Phishing (via email) and smishing (via text) are common fraud tactics where scammers pose as trusted organisations, such as universities, student loan services, or banks, to steal information. NCSE guidance on phishing attacks can be found here - ncsc.gov.uk/collection/ phishing-scams

How to protect yourself

• Always check the sender’s email address for typos or suspicious domains.

• Never click on suspicious links; instead, go to the official website manually.

• Be wary of urgent messages demanding immediate action.

• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) on your university and banking accounts.

AI Deepfakes: Recognising fake media

Deepfakes are AI-generated videos, audio clips, or images that appear real. These can be used for misinformation, impersonation, or fraud.

How to spot them

• Watch for unnatural facial movements or mismatched audio.

• Cross-check media with official sources.

• If an image or video looks suspicious, reverse search it online to verify its authenticity.

Top Tips for Staying Safe Online

Quick Check: Are you cyber-safe?

• Think Before You Trust: Not everyone online is who they claim to be.

• Keep Personal Info Private: Adjust social media privacy settings and avoid oversharing.

• Use Strong Passwords and MFA: Follow NCSC guidance by using three random words for passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) for added security.

• Use a strong, separate password for your email account.

• Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions – Use a VPN when necessary.

• Be Cautious with Links and Attachments: Verify before clicking, even from known contacts.

• Never Send Money or Personal Details to Strangers: Scammers often impersonate real organisations.

• Report Suspicious Activity: Report this to BNU’s IT service desk by emailing IT@bnu.ac.uk.

• Stay Alert on Dating Apps: Meet in public places and inform a friend before meeting someone new.

What to Do If You’re Targeted by Scammers

1. Stop engaging with the scammer: Do not respond or provide further information.

2. Secure your accounts: Change passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.

3. Gather evidence: Take screenshots, save emails, and note key details.

4. Report the scam through one of the following:

• University IT Support (for phishing emails or security breaches)

• Online Dating Association (for dating scams)

• CrimeStoppers or Police (101/999) (if threats or abuse are involved)

• Action Fraud (UK, except Scotland) (for financial scams)

• National Cyber Security Centre (for broader cyber threats)

• Victim Support (if you need emotional or legal assistance)

Further Support and Resources

• Find more about Safer Internet Day 2025.

• Explore SWGfL e- safety resources for university students.

• National Cyber Security Centre tips for staying safe online

Staying Safe Online - Jasmine Dos Santos Collett

Know someone who has made your life better at BNU?

AND

THE EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND TEACHING AWARDS

We celebrate the achievements of our students and staff at the annual Union Awards on Thursday 8 May 2025.

Union Awards include:

Society Committee Member of the Year

RAG Charity Fundraiser of the Year

Ambassador of the Year

Ruth Gunstone Volunteer of the Year

Media Contributor of the Year

Society of the Year

Campaigner of the Year

Student Rep of the Year

Student Leadership Award

Excellence in Learning and Teaching Awards include:

Excellence and Innovation in Student Learning Support

Demonstrating Excellence in Academic Leadership

Excellence and Innovation in Learning and Teaching Practice

To nominate an individual for an award, scan the QR code or visit bucksstudentsunion.org/surveys/ unionawards2025

Both staff and students can submit multiple nominations across the range of awards.

Health

Group Sessions

From the Art and Design Gallery Wall

It doesn't get better than...

FREE FOOD

The Big Bucks Meal Deal

A project derived from the cost-of-living campaign run by Bucks Students’ Union to make sure you are fed and well. The campaign aims to tackle food poverty within the student community at BNU by cutting the prices of food in our cafés and The Lounge hosting three free hot meals a week. This is funded and supported by BNU and delivered by Bucks Students’ Union.

Where is it?

The Lounge in Bucks Student’s Union (look for the large elected officer banner and head in that way). You can walk along the road with the speed bumps from the Gateway reception to find the banner.

When is it?

Three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, 5.30pm–7.30pm. You’ll just need to bring your student ID and a good appetite.

This is all free to help with the cost-of-living crisis.

What about Uxbridge and Aylesbury?

Pulse and Basin also partake in The Big Bucks Meal Deal - Pulse giving free Breakfast twice a week and Basin free lunch twice a week. This is provided by Gather & Gather, keep an eye out in these cafes for more information.

If you have any issues regarding the cost-of-living crisis, or food poverty, then please contact Harry Tomlinson and Bethany Jackson or the Advice Centre via email or on social media below.

Advice Centre suadvice@bnu.ac.uk

Instagram @buckssulounge

Vice President Education and Walfare (High Wycome) Email harry.tomlinson@bnu.ac.uk

Vice President Education and Walfare (Uxbridge and Aylesbury) Email bethany.jackson@bnu.ac.uk

Table Tennis and Basketball in Beats

On the first floor of East Wing, we have a Table Tennis table and Arcade Basketball available for all to use. In order to play, head down to the Students’ Union (Ground Floor of North Wing) and pick up some basketballs or table tennis bats and balls. All we will require is your name and student ID. For any more questions contact sport@bnu.ac.uk

Wycombe Jazz Festival (WJF) 2025 sponsored by Chiltern Railways returns on the 07/06/2025 at Wycombe Arts Centre

It’s the fourth year of the festival organised by

year

Catch22jams (CIC) Wycombe’s monthly jazz night.

This

the talented London based pianist David Kofi takes top billing.

Events Calendar

SubTV Party - Mon 3 March (8pm - 1am, The Lounge)

Did you know the music in The Lounge is powered by SubTV? Join us for a night where you control the playlist, enjoy great drinks, and even have a chance to win a £50 Amazon voucher.

Pre-Varsity Banner Making - Tues 4 March (7pm - 11pm, The Lounge)

Get creative and show your Bucks pride. Join us in The Lounge to make epic banners and get ready to cheer on our teams at Varsity.

OMB! Foam Party - Wed 5 March (10pm - 3am, The Venue)

The messiest, wildest OMB! of the year is here. Get ready to dance the night away in a sea of foam, big tunes, and unbeatable vibes.

Throwback Thursday: School Disco - Thur 6 March (10pm - 2am, The Lounge)

Time to relive your school disco days with classic throwback hits, glow sticks, and the ultimate nostalgia trip. Grab your uniform and get ready to dance.

Green 182 Tribute - Fri 7 March (8pm - Midnight, The Venue)

Pop-punk fans, this one’s for you. Get ready for an electric night of Blink182’s biggest hits performed live—all the small things, but make it big.

Drag Cabaret: A Night of Icons - Sat 8 March (9pm - 1am, The Venue)

Experience a night of glitz, glamour, and jaw-dropping performances as your favorite icons come to life drag queen style. Expect stage games, prizes, and unbeatable drink deals.

The Big Quiz: MCU - Sun 9 March (6pm - 11pm, The Lounge)

Think you know the Marvel Cinematic Universe inside out? Assemble your team and put your knowledge to the test in our ultimate MCU-themed quiz.

Jam Night - Mon 10 March (7pm - Midnight, The Venue)

Calling all musicians and music lovers. Join us for a laid-back night of live performances, whether you’re taking the stage or just enjoying the tunes.

Pre-Varsity Games Night - Tues 11 March (7pm - 11pm, The Lounge)

Get hyped for Varsity with a night of friendly competition, fun games, and great vibes. Come test your skills and get in the spirit before the big event.

OMB! Varsity After Party - Wed 12 March (10pm - 3am, The Venue)

Whether we’re celebrating a win or appreciating everyone’s hard work, this is the ultimate Varsity send-off. Join us for a massive night at The Venue.

Build Your Own Legos - Thur 13 March ( 7pm - 11pm, The Lounge)

Unleash your creativity and build whatever comes to mind in a relaxed, fun Lego-building session. Perfect for winding down and letting your imagination run wild.

LDOT: Last Day of Term - Fri 14 March (9pm - 2am, The Venue)

The biggest send-off before the break. Join us for one final night of partying, music, and memories before we wrap up the term in style.

Rugby Live from The Lounge - Sat 15 March (2pm - 7pm, The Lounge)

Catch all the action from the latest rugby showdown on the big screen. Grab a drink, settle in, and enjoy the game with fellow fans in a great atmosphere.

The Big Quiz: Disney - Sun 16 March (6pm - 11pm, The Lounge)

Join us for a Disney-themed special of The Big Quiz! Test your knowledge on all things Disney and see if you have what it takes to be the ultimate Disney champion!

THE

VENUE

PRESENTS

FRI 18 APR 10PM - 3AM

THE VENUE

COMING SOON

Try our Warm Pancakes £2.95!

Open 8am – 4pm, Monday – Thursday 8am – 3pm, Friday

BREAKFAST

Breakfast pastries:

(Served from 8:00am - 11:30am Mon - Fri)

Butter Croissant

£0.80 400kcal Ham & Cheese Croissant £1.25 921kcal

Chocolate Croissant £1.00 377kcal Vegan Croissant £0.60 395kcal

Cinnamon Swirl £0.70 444kcal Toast & Preserves £0.80 1222kcal

Breakfast Baps: (Please ask if you require a gluten free bap)

(Served from 8:00am - 11:30am Mon - Fri)

Bacon Bap £1.55 GF 439kcal

2 rashers of bacon served in a warm bap.

Sausage Bap £1.45 V° GF 520kcal

2 pork sausages or vegetarian sausages served in a warm bap.

Free Range Egg Bap £1.25 V GF 390kcal

Free range fried, scrambled or poached egg served in a warm bap.

Bacon and Sausage Bap £2.20 700kcal

1 rasher of bacon & 2 sausages served in a warm bap.

Breakfast Bap £2.85 831kcal

1 rasher of bacon, 2 sausages with free range fried scrambled or poached egg served in a warm bap.

Vegetarian Breakfast Bap £2.85 V 744kcal

3 vegetarian sausages, 2 hash browns & free range fried, scrambled or poached egg served served in a warm bap.

Quorn Sausage Muffin £2.85 V 672kcal

A warm breakfast muffin with 2 Quorn sausage pattie, cheese & a mini omelette.

All-day Breakfast £4.25 834kcal

Choose from the following: Bacon, Red Tractor pork sausage, baked beans, hash browns, mushrooms, tomato & free range fried, scrambled or poached egg.

All-day Vegetarian Breakfast

£4.25 V 610kcal

Choose from the following: Sausages, baked beans, hash browns, mushrooms, tomato and free range fried egg, scrambled or poached egg.

Eggs Benedict £3.85 V 618kcal

S

e e t t r eatS

(Served from 8:00am – 4:00pm Mon–Thurs, 8:00am – 3:00pm Fri)

Warm Pancakes £2.95 VG 622kcal

A stack of 5 American pancakes with a forest fruit compote.

Tulip Muffins £1.85 V 1001kcal

Triple chocolate, blueberry crumble, victoria sponge, or salted caramel.

Chewy Cookies £1.25 V 491kcal

Double chocolate, triple chocolate, or oat raisin & lemon cookies.

Wedge of Cake from £2.30 V 325kcal

Please ask what we have for today’s cakes.

Fresh Fruit Platter Box £2.25 VG 234kcal

Fresh watermelon, pineapple, green / black grapes & strawberries.

BUrGeRS

(Served from 11:00am – 4:00pm Mon – Thurs, 11:00am – 3:00pm Fri)

All burgers are served with your choice of fries or spicy wedges.

Upgrade to sweet potato fries for only 60p. Gluten free baps are also available.

The Classic £3.50 828kcal, double £4.95 1129kcal

Flame grilled beef burger with tomato relish, shredded iceberg lettuce served in a bap.

The Rooster Booster £3.95 912kcal, double £5.50 1122kcal H°

A spicy coated chicken breast with mayonnaise, shredded iceberg lettuce served in a bap.

The Mighty Lone Ranger £4.60 1029kcal, double £6.10 1282kcal GF VG

A quarter pound of Plant based Burger with a tomato relish crisp lettuce topped with Vegan cheese served in a bap.

The Red Tractor £5.75 1071kcal, double £6.95 1328kcal H° GF

A 6oz 21 day aged burger with tomato relish, crisp lettuce, sliced gherkin & topped with cheese served in a bap.

The Halloumi £5.95 883kcal, double £6.95 1199kcal V GF

A halloumi stack with an Asian sweet chilli slaw served in a bap.

The Fish Finger Bap £4.30 851kcal VGo

3 Cod Fish fingers, with iceberg lettuce, garlic mayonnaise & a tomato & red onion salsa, served with fries.

Three giant onion rings 85p V 241kcal Bacon 65p V 180kcal

Cheddar cheese 50p V 325kcal Vegan cheese 50p VG 285kcal

Jalapeño peppers 30p VG 20kcal

Free range fried or poached egg 50p V GF 131kcal Add toppings to own your burger!

RUSTY,S TOWER CHALLENGE

£13.95 - Three beef burgers, three spicy chicken burgers, stacked with bacon, cheese, beef tomato, fried egg, red onion, Jalapeño peppers & iceberg lettuce separated by our brioche bun floors; served with baked beans, garlic flat bread with cheese, onion rings & either chips or spicy wedges (contains wheat gluten, milk, mustard & egg) 3549kcal

Served from 11am–4pm Mon–Thurs, 11am–3pm Fri

Eat all the food on your plate in under 30 minutes to win an exclusive I Rusty t-shirt! This is a one person challenge, are YOU up for it?

SIDE ORDERS

(Served from 11:00am – 4:00pm Mon – Thurs, 11:00am – 3:00pm Fri)

Chips

£1.20 GF VG 139kcal

Chips & cheese

£1.40 V GF 553kcal

Chips & curry sauce

£1.35 V 559kcal

Spicy wedges

£1.20 VG 135kcal

Spicy wedges & cheese

Sweet potato fries

Garlic flat bread

£1.40 V 549kcal

£1.90 GF VG 158kcal

£1.20 V 287kcal

Garlic flat bread with cheese £1.70 V 701kcal

6 giant onion rings

£1.70 V 241kcal

Breaded garlic mushrooms £1.80 V 162kcal

Side salad £1.00 GF VG 50kcal

snacks, salads, paninis, jacky p's & toasted sandwiches

(Served from 11:00am – 4:00pm Mon – Thurs, 11:00am – 3:00pm Fri)

Panini or Toasted Sandwich £2.70 V from 385kcal

Toasted to order with your choice of fillings. Please see the chalk board for the selection of fillings, treat yourself to a side of chips.

Chilli Nachos £3.75 V GF 1162kcal

Tortilla chips loaded with chilli con carne & cheese with a sour cream dip.

The Club Sandwich £4.10 664kcal

Classic triple layered toasted sandwich with shredded iceberg lettuce, beef tomato, chicken mayonnaise & grilled bacon.

Mac ‘n’ Cheese Bites

£2.95 V 394kcal

Macaroni pasta & a mix of three cheeses in a crispy coating of breadcrumbs served with a tomato relish dip.

Chicken Nuggets £4.80 351kcal

Chicken coated in breadcrumbs served with chips or wedges.

Halal & vegan option available.

Jacket Potato from £1.80 GF V° VG 390kcal

Jacket potato with a choice of fillings. Please see the chalk boards on the bar.

House Mix ‘n’ Match Salad from £1.70 329kcal

Salad leaves and a mix of cucumber tomato sweetcorn & peppers with a choice of toppings:

Chicken Strips £1.60 Smoked Salmon £2.95 Smashed Avocado £1.75

Tuna Fish £1.80 Grilled Halloumi £2.50 Caesar Dressing Inc

French Dressing Inc Mayonnaise Inc Garlic and Herb Croutons 50p

Dirty Fries £2.35 894kcal

Fries loaded with bacon, peppers, Cajun spice, red onion & melted cheese.

Big Foot Sub £2.80 520kcal

A foot-long sub filled with shredded iceberg lettuce, tomato red onion, with chicken strips & Emmental sliced cheese served warm.

H o m e Favo u r i t eS

(Served from 11:00am – 4:00pm Mon – Thurs, 11:00am – 3:00pm Fri)

Lasagne £5.20 V 138kcal

Layers of spinach pasta filled with a rich tomato sauce with British beef, topped with a béchamel sauce & cheese served with side salad.

Fish ‘n’ Chips £3.95 GF 422kcal

Jumbo cod fillet in a crispy batter with chips or spicy wedges & your choice of mushy peas, garden peas or baked beans & lemon. Gluten free fish available.

Sausage ‘n’ Mash £3.35 V° 1038kcal

Jumbo sausage with mash potato and gravy with garden peas or baked beans.

Penne pasta from £2.50 GF VG 603kcal

Penne pasta served with a choice of sauces & sliced garlic bread, add cheese for an extra 50p.

Stuffed Crust Pizza

£5.20 260kcal

A choice between a Four Cheese Pizza or a Pepperoni Pizza.

Chicken Katsu Curry

£3.10 475kcal

Breast of Chicken in a Crisp Panko Crumb cut into strips with plain rice & Katsu Curry Sauce.

All our food is prepared in a kitchen where nuts, cereals containing gluten and other allergens are present, and our menu descriptions do not include all ingredients.

If you have a food allergy or intolerance, please let us know before ordering Full allergen information for food is available upon request.

LOUNGE THE SPECIALS

Monday 10 February – Sunday 13 April 2025

Curry Club £4.50 V° 801kcal

Check out what Today’s Curry is Served with Plain Rice & Garlic & Coriander Naan Bread.

Lounge Platter

£6.20 221kcal

Made to share, Spicy Wedge Potatoes, Onion Rings, Garlic Bread, Garlic Mushrooms & Southern Fried Chicken Goujons with BBQ Dip, Sweet Chilli Dip & Sour cream Dip.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME SPECIAL

Chicken Fajitas £3.25 V° H 610kcal

Strips of Chicken Breast with Mixed Peppers, Red Onions with a Mexican Fajita spice

Wrapped in a warm Flour Tortilla Served with Sour Cream.

Scan the QR code to view our most up-todate menus and special offers.

By Kelly Wiles

RAG - February

The fundraising has been busy this month and you have all joined in and had a great time.

Bethany and Wren hosted Boycott your bed in the events hall raising £478 for Wycombe Homeless Connection and to give you the option of events Amy hosted the Big Sleep out with Wycombe Homeless Connection in Adam’s Park raising another £320, the total going to Wycombe Homeless connection is £798.

The Film society held a movie marathon in the Lounge, covering all types of movie genres and of course included all the popcorn and snacks you could want.

The Musical Theatre Society made everyone feel the love selling roses, chocolates and even some serenades for Valentine’s Day.

Men’s Hockey organised and ran a charity match against Wycombe hockey club, joined by the Women’s Hockey team and the Cheer club, this was a great success and an amazing example of collaboration with other clubs to run a big event. A huge £600 was raised to be donated to Wycombe Mind.

Rugby have been fundraising all year raising money for YES Wycombe, Movember, and Wycombe Mind, but once again have stepped up and fundraised for Wycombe mind for their Game Under the lights against UCFB in Marlow raising another £113 for Wycombe Mind.

The BTaG Society held their Annual 24hr Game a thon with half the proceeds going the One Can Trust, from Just Dance, Mario kart and a FIFA (EA FC) tournament there was something for everyone to get involved with.

By Kelly Wiles

Volunteering Roundup

This month has been jammed packed, Student Volunteer Week brought a lot of support for communities, making the calico dolls, dog toys for hearing dogs for deaf people, lots of opportunities to get your hands dirty with Chiltern Rangers.

We also wanted to support your student community by asking students to write affirmations, these can be picked up from the help yourself in the Students’ Union office.

The volunteer ambassador headed to Stokenchurch Dog Rescue to support the staff looking after the dogs and visitors.

Students volunteered to make our Bucks Dance competition run smoothly, assist the other universities, and support our BNU Dance Club.

Congratulations to the volunteer award winners this month

February Volunteer Award winners

Mia Walford

James Goodacre

Oliver Dawson

Nicholas Thorley

Eduard Smith

Max Brinsmead

Aidan Kelly

Adriana Karaszova

Thomas Broadbent

Ayaan Aamir

Deborah Koumah

Gemma Finch

Scout Boulting

Mia Walford

Erin Cook

James Upson

Ayaan Aamir

Seyi Solola

Mia Walford

Jake Bainbridge

Keleigh Brady

Nicole Efemini

Dan Charlton

Lauren Milne

Abi Hix

Our committees are running sessions and getting involved with all the volunteering on offer.

Don’t forget you can get involved by looking at the What’s On page on our Bucks Students’ Union website. At Bucks Students’ Union we want to make sure you are acknowledged for all your hard work and achievements. We do this by Social media posts, Newspapers, and certificates.

We have a scheme for your hours:

These are accumulated over your time at university, so there is no panic about doing 400 hours in a busy year. If you complete 30 hours volunteering within the community, you can also get our amazing volunteer bundle. This consists of:

Hoodie, Polo, Water bottle, Power bank and Poncho

Volunteering is a massive part of Bucks Students’ Union. Playing an active role in helping the SU as well as the wider community. It is not just beneficial for the SU but the students who take the time and pick up the opportunities the union provides to volunteer.

Whilst being in our third year of university, Izzy has been an avid contributor to dance and musical theatres committees, whilst Hattie has taken up two roles within the dance committee. This has enabled us to more involved in the students union and learning about all the opportunities available. Being involved in the running of clubs and societies is very rewarding as we get to witness the hard work of our members and become more cohesive as a team when volunteering together. Dance have created an incentive for their members to gain volunteering hours, being part of the club has really shown us the importance of volunteering and everyone getting involved.

On top of volunteering internally for the uni, we also volunteer for the community, this includes helping out at a local charity called refresh which is a shop which sell dead stock fabrics and other bits and bobs donated to prevent them going to landfill.

Whilst here, we have helped with sorting out stock as well as planning a workshop to teach people basic machine sewing skills. As dance committee, we have also used our connection with refresh to provide volunteering opportunities for our dance members. We are both costume students, this volunteering has become a positive for our CVs, creating connections that are vital in the industry.

While at home, Izzy continues to volunteer for a charity called project Linus who provides quilts and blankets for children in hospitals and underprivileged. she donates her time and skills to make quilts using creativity to make fun and interesting designs and colours. Quilting is something she enjoy doing in her free time and being able to help a charity with my makes is so fulfilling.

Hattie also volunteers whilst at home, supporting her mother’s mayoral role organising events to raise money for their two local charities in Leicestershire, Hope against Cancer and Wishes for Kids. Being able to be involved in events that can be beneficial to some small charities and being able to directly see the impact is enriching.

Both of us were originally unaware of the fact we could log the hours we had achieved outside of university from our hometowns. Since doing so we have logged a combined total of over 1500 hours, achieving our Platinum Volunteer Awards and getting an invite to Union Awards for our efforts. We are still pushing to hopefully achieve our Diamond volunteering of 1000 hours before the year is out!

Lots of love, your two favourite volunteers, Izzy and Hattie

We STRIVED for success!!

STRIVE was a brilliant week, with so many students getting involved!! Over 400 students attended the workshops, panels, and events, including 173 students who took the opportunity to develop their networking skills.

We would like to say a massive thank you to all the Development Ambassadors who helped with the week’s set-up and running, the Representation team for helping organise it all, and the volunteers who gave up their time to support.

We started the week off with the very well-attended Employer Showcase and Networking event, where students from all schools could speak to employers in their industry. They were able to gain valuable tips and tricks about the world of work and how to get into the role they want. At the beginning of the event, we handed out networking packs, which included: networking tips, createyour-own business cards, a to-do list/notebook, questions to ask the employers and a STRIVE pen. These packs helped all the students to network and speak to as many employers as possible. We also received amazing feedback from the employers about the build-your-own business cards, they found them very useful when they were talking to keen students as they could keep their information for further discussions.

On Monday afternoon we had a talk from The Air Charter Association. The students who attended found it very useful to find out more about Chartering and the routes into the industry. All the students were interested in chartered flights for moving animals and that Giraffes must lay sideways to be transported on a plane! Kelly Wiles ran a Community Engagement and Your Future session, where she showed how you can use volunteering to an advantage in interviews or job applications.

Tuesday was our busiest day, with something happening every hour from 12:00-17:00. We had online sessions, Q&A panels, workshops, and a session in Uxbridge. Careers in Film/TV/Gaming was very well attended, with over 25 students asking questions and learning about the industry. The students who went to the public speaking course all found it very eye-opening and they felt like a new person at the end. Hilary is an amazing coach, with a vast amount of knowledge that she passes on through her sessions. The online session by Clare Sutton was about stopping your inner critic. It was a super insightful session, where the students learnt to have faith in themselves and stop the inner criticism.

Wednesday was a great day with our Alumni Q&A panel, headshots, Time Management, and an online Building Resilience webinar. The panel had five alumni from different sectors, they

spoke about their experiences at university and in the working world. We are very grateful to the alumni for coming to speak to current students and taking time out of their busy schedules. Jess had a few students in person at time management (and no one was late this year!), she tailored the session to the students and how they can make their time management better. The headshots were jam-packed, lots of students wanted to have an updated picture to use for their LinkedIn, social media, or Portfolios.

Thursday started with the Vice-Chancellor Professor Damien Page running a social media for Students session. Damien has a strong presence on LinkedIn and this session was great at showing students how to build their presence. The feedback from the session praised Damien and gave the students a great view of how to use social media to their advantage. Habit Building Hacks by Clare Sutton was a brilliant session, the students learnt different skills to keep a good habit going. Leading a Team was up next, delivered by Jess Hughes, she explored the different ways you can lead a team and work with different types of people. Jess has a lot of knowledge of this as she led an opportunity module on leadership and runs the Leadership Academy. ‘Me’ PLC was a workshop run by one of the employers at the networking event on Monday, Barbara works for the Ministry of Defence and used this to her advantage. She shared a presentation on Your value, How to present yourself, Your approach, Your brand, Networking and online presence.

Full-time officer hustings were also on Thursday, this is where the students running in the elections had time to speak to their fellow students and share how they are going to make life better for students at Bucks. Hustings happens every year and it is a great place for those running to make their voices heard.

Kelly ran her session a second time this week on Friday, the students found it valuable and will be using the tips she gave in their CV’s and job interviews. Over in Uxbridge, Tash ran the same Leading a Team session that Jess ran in High Wycombe. This session was valued by the students in Uxbridge as they are likely to be leading a team in their careers.

Most of the sessions have been recorded and will be posted on the What’s On page for you to watch back if you missed anything! Thank you for coming to STRIVE 25 and we look forward to seeing you next year, or if you’re a final year student we look forward to seeing how STRIVE has helped with your career.

7pm - 9pm

12pm - 1:30pm

7pm - 9pm

6pm - 7pm

5pm - 8pm

SOCIETIES MARCH 2025

ADVICE CENTRE

• Money

• Your personal life

• Legal issues

• Accommodation

• Course issues

• International student issues

Our professional, confidential, and independent advice service provides information, advice, and guidance and is available to all students at BNU.

From course-related issues and money worries to personal problems and general welfare concerns, our experienced advisors are set-up to provide you with confidential advice and guidance when you need it the most.

We have the time to listen, advise and support students, providing a service which is accessible and welcoming. We use our experience and knowledge on student issues to make life better for students at Bucks.

High Wycombe Campus: Room N0.04, ground floor, North Wing 01494 603 016 Uxbridge Campus: Room 1.03, first floor 01494 605 180

We offer in-person appointments at High Wycombe or Uxbridge, or if you are off-site, telephone or online appointments, whichever suits you best. If you have an enquiry or want to make an appointment just drop-in, phone or email us.

bucksstudentsunion.org/advice suadvice@bnu.ac.uk

GOT A PROBLEM OR QUESTION?

Opening hours:

High Wycombe: Monday to Thursday

9am–5pm, Friday 9am–4.30pm

Uxbridge: Monday to Thursday 9am–5pm, Friday 9am–4.30pm

On 20th - 21st of February, we had a 24 Hour of Game-a-thon.

An event that consists of playing boardgames, card games, PC games, and tournaments held during a 24hour period. Alongside this was a green initiative, a bake sale, and the DnD movie was played during the quiet period. There was a closely tied tournament in Just Dance, a very competitive Super Smash Bros tournament, and of course an intense Mario Kart tournament. There were some fun games of Monopoly, Cards Against Humanity, and Magic of the Gathering going on.

This year’s game-a-thon had a great turnout! Thank you to the Football Society and Swim Society for participating and joining in with the green initiative! Thank you to everyone from BTAG who showed up, brought friends, and made the event more enjoyable. Thank you to those who helped with the set-up and clean-up your help was appreciated immensely.

Due to everyone’s support; the donations at the door towards the bake sale and the drinks deal. We managed to raise £302 this year! This will be sent, half and half, to the One Can Trust and the BTAG society so we can continue into next year! The donation to One Can Trust will be a big food shop.

The Thrill of Dance Competition Season: Life in the BNU Dance Club

As competition season starts, dancers at Buckinghamshire New University are embracing the pressure, the anticipation, and the camaraderie that comes with it. For the members within the university’s dance club, this time of year is not only about performing but also about pushing limits, exceeding expectations, and building deeper bonds and friendships.

The dance club provides an influential opportunity for students to develop their skills, express themselves, and become a part of a supportive community. Whether dancers are just starting out or have years of experience, the club offers an inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to challenge themselves, grow as performers, and create life-long memories.

Competitions are just one of the many highlights of the year. Whilst the objective is to perform to the best of your ability, the atmosphere is more than just about winning. It’s about celebrating dance as an art form and sport. Although universities are competing against each other, there is an undeniable sense of support through all teams. Dancers cheer each other on, appreciate each other’s styles, and admire the creativity on display. It’s a community where talent, ideas, and choreography are showcased, as well as where hard work is recognised, no matter the results.

“Definitely the most rewarding thing about being part of the dance club is being able to do so many different styles and perform some amazing pieces in competitions and shows,” said Lottie, a dedicated member of the universities dance club.

Beyond competition, being part of the dance club is an unbelievable opportunity. It’s a space to gain confidence, grow as a dancer, and be surrounded by people who share the same passion and love. Whether it’s training for the next event or simply dancing for the love of it, the club is a second home, one that promotes teamwork, talent, and unforgettable experiences.

Scan to visit - BNU Dance Club

The Bucks Netball First Team have been on an incredible cup run, overcoming multiple unbeaten teams along the way. One of their toughest challenges came in the quarter-finals against a formidable Westminster side. After an intense match ended in a draw, Bucks delivered a dominant extra-time performance to secure the win and book their place in the semi-finals.

The semi-final saw the team travel to face Royal Holloway 2s, another unbeaten side who share the same league as Bucks. Having previously drawn 42-42 against them earlier in the season, the team knew they were in for a fiercely competitive game. Despite battling injuries and illnesses that should have kept some players off the court, a determined nine-strong squad made the journey on a cold Wednesday evening, ready to give everything for their university.

The game got off to a rocky start, with Royal Holloway taking an early 5-0 lead. However, Bucks quickly found their rhythm, ending the first quarter two goals ahead. The second quarter saw errors creeping in from both sides as tensions rose, and by half-time, Bucks trailed by just one goal, keeping the game wide open. As the match progressed, Royal Holloway gained momentum, fueled by a vocal home crowd and their coach’s instructions from the sidelines. The third quarter was a

By Hannah Jackson

Bucks Netball First Team’s Sensational Cup Run Continues

back-and-forth battle, with both teams holding the lead at different moments, ultimately leaving Bucks two goals down heading into the final quarter. But the girls knew this game was theirs for the taking. They had figured out what needed to be done—now it was all about execution.

In a stunning display of teamwork, resilience, and sheer determination, Bucks turned the tide. Within five minutes, they were back up by four, thanks to some tenacious defensive efforts and pinpoint shooting. Every player on the court pushed themselves to the limit, showcasing incredible stamina and skill. The final minute was nail-biting, with the game once again tied. Bucks took their centre pass and converted it into a crucial goal, regaining the lead. What followed was an all-out defensive stand, with tips flying in from every angle. As the final whistle blew, the team initially thought they had drawn— but in reality, they had secured a famous 56-57 victory.

It was a phenomenal team performance, with every player stepping up when it mattered most. The defensive unit put their bodies on the line to disrupt Royal Holloway’s attacks, while the shooters held their nerve under immense pressure. Mid-court players worked tirelessly to transition the ball, controlling the tempo and keeping composure in crucial moments. It was truly a collective effort

that demonstrated the depth of talent and fighting spirit within this squad. This marks the third time the netball first team has reached the cup final in four years, but despite coming second in previous attempts, this year the girls are determined to win it all. They are also the only team in the university to progress this far in their cup this year, making their achievement even more remarkable. They now face another unbeaten side, Royal Veterinary College, in the final, where they will look to complete an extraordinary win. The match is set to take place at Sussex Sports Campus at 8pm on March 5th. Can the girls pull off one final, historymaking performance? One thing’s for sure—this team thrives under pressure, and they are ready to give it their all.

Scan to visit - Netball

Underdogs Rise: 3s vs. 4s The Game That Defined a Season

Coming to university, I never imagined I’d be part of something as intense and electrifying as the annual 3 vs. 4 game. As a first-year at BNU, stepping onto The Rye’s pitch for this matchup felt surreal—this was more than just a battle for three points. It was about pride, bragging rights, and proving that the underdogs could stand tall.

The atmosphere was charged from the first whistle. Despite knowing many of the opposition personally—having trained together, shared laughs, and bonded as teammates—those 90 minutes turned friends into fierce rivals. The game was brutal, with crunching tackles, relentless energy, and an undeniable hunger for victory. Everyone wanted to be the hero.

The breakthrough came when the 4s took the lead from a corner I delivered—a perfectly floated ball into the box that was met by the towering header from Manuel. As the ball hit the back of the net, euphoria erupted. The crowd exploded into cheers, chanting our names, and our team huddled together in celebration. The momentum was ours, but football is a cruel game.

Before halftime, the 3s responded. A misplaced pass in midfield saw them break quickly down the right flank. Their winger delivered a precise shot at our keeper, Scott, which was met by Chris, who reacted first, slotting the ball into the bottom corner beyond our keeper’s reach. Walking off the pitch, there was disappointment, but no

doubt in our minds that we were still in it. We were the underdogs, but if we fought a little harder, we could bring home the win. That belief took a hit early in the second half. Chris struck again for the 3s, pouncing on a loose ball in the box after a chaotic scramble. His shot rifled into the roof of the net, leaving our keeper with no chance. Moments later, disaster struck. A misjudged clearance saw Ax deflect the ball into our own net—3-1. The tide seemed to be turning against us.

Then came our golden opportunity—two penalties in quick succession. The first came after I was fouled in the box. Our captain, JJ, stepped up, the crowd holding its breath, but his shot curled just past the post. My stomach dropped. The second penalty came minutes later when our winger was brought down trying to round the keeper. Manuel took responsibility, striking the ball low and hard, but the 3s’ keeper, Jake, made an outstanding save, diving full stretch to keep it out. It felt like luck had abandoned us.

But football always has one last twist. Another foul in the box. This time, I knew I had to step up. My captain’s advice? “Don’t miss.” As I struck the ball with precision, it flew past the keeper into the bottom corner. 3-2. A lifeline. Then, in the dying moments, Manuel’s cross found Raul’s head in a crowded penalty area. Raul, rising above everyone, powered the ball past the outstretched hands of the keeper. The ball hit the net. 3-3. Pandemonium. We sprinted

to the crowd, celebrating like we had won a cup final.

Though the official result was a draw, we agreed to settle it with penalties—for the ultimate bragging rights. Chaos ensued with no one seemingly able to score, first the 3’s then the 4’s, then again, until finally our goalkeeper, Scott, stepped forward. As he struck the ball, time seemed to slow. It crept under the keeper’s hands and into the net. The 4s had done it. For the first time in nearly five years, we had won.

We lifted Scott onto our shoulders, the weight of five years of losses lifted with him. The victory meant everything. Looking back, I don’t think anything will ever match that moment—the joy, the tension, the unbreakable bond of a team that defied the odds. That day, we didn’t just play football.

We made history.

Scan to visit - Football (Men’s)

MONTHLY MONDAY MEALS

BURRITO BOWL

Cost of ingredients from Aldi: £1.43 (as of February 2025) approx time: 15mins

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Put your rice in a pan with enough water to just cover the rice. Add salt to the water and bring the pan to a boil. Once the water is boiling, turn the heat to low and keep a lid on.

INGREDIENTS

2. Add your onion, chopped tomatoes and mixed beans into another pan. Heat the pan on a medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Add your seasoning and give it a good mix.

Onion (15p) Can of Chopped Tomatoes (39p)

3. Once the rice is cooked, spoon it into a bowl. Then add the tomato and bean mix to the top.

Can of Mixed Beans (69p)

4. Enjoy your food, courtesy of the Big Deal. Scan the QR code to follow along with the recipe on TikTok or visit

50g of Rice (10p) Fajita Seasoning (10p)

Extras you may add: Sliced Chicken, Beef or Quorn Mince, or cheese