A message from your Elected Officers
A warm welcome to all new and returning members! As your elected officers, we are dedicated to making your time here at BNU (Buckinghamshire New University) as enriching and enjoyable as possible. Our roles focus on various aspects of student life, including education, welfare, belonging, achievement, and the safety of all our members.
For those new to university life, when you become a student at BNU, you are automatically a member of Bucks Students’ Union. Bucks Students’ Union is much more than just nightlife events. We offer numerous opportunities to enhance your learning and development. You can gain transferable skills, join a society, make new friends, be part of the leadership academy, become a representative for your group, and much more. We are here to support you in every aspect of your student journey and ensure you make the most of your time at BNU. And what makes this even better is that everything we offer is FREE, thanks to the Big Deal.
The amazing Bucks Students’ Union team works tirelessly to make life better for students at BNU. Looking ahead, we are excited about the many initiatives and events planned for this year. From engaging workshops and social events to advocacy campaigns and academic support, we are committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. We look forward to collaborating with you, hearing your ideas, and working together to create an unforgettable experience at BNU. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead! Look forward to collaborating with you, hearing your ideas, and working together to create an unforgettable experience at BNU. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!
Contributors
Amy Pile • Wren Sell • Harry Tomlinson • Bethany Jackson • Jess Hughes • Sarah Jackson • Imogen Sanders • Daniel Lawrence • Tash Neal • Ian Tuazon • Alex Ditchburn • Kelly WIles • Georgia Haynes • Keleigh Brady • Beau Cooke • Esther Stephenson • Ellie Lee • Daniel Charlton • Eve Matthews • Gemma Finch • Emily Platt • Will Johnson • Tricia Glassborow • Peter Ashiagbor • Deborah Koumah • Daniel Carlton • Saqib Aslam • Dee Whyte
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 editor@thebucksstudent.com
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. © 2024 Bucks Students’ Union
Hello everyone, I’m Amy, your Students’ Union President.
I studied Adult Nursing at BNU and have been actively involved with the Students’ Union throughout my time here. Last year, I served as the Vice President Education and Welfare officer for Uxbridge and Aylesbury Campuses, and for three years, I chaired the Bucks Nursing Society. I have held various other roles within the Students’ Union.
I decided to run for President because I’m deeply passionate about supporting others and wanted to give back to the student body, the Union, and the university community. My commitment is to enhance your experience here and contribute positively to our vibrant community.
My role as President is straightforward: to represent all of you. Alongside my colleagues, we will work tirelessly to advocate for your needs, support your academic and personal development, and ensure your voice is heard I am dedicated to ensuring that your Union follows and delivers its strategic plan and continues to enhance your university experience.
Focuses this year:
This year, I am committed to tackling digital poverty by ensuring access to essential resources and equipment for all students. I will also work on improving transport and parking facilities to make commuting easier and provide robust support for students with parental responsibilities.
These goals are taken from my manifesto, but I understand that throughout the year, priorities may shift. Therefore, I will be working on and supporting many more projects as needs arise, so make sure to follow me on social media platforms as I share throughout the year ahead.
Also, if you have any ideas on campaigns, and how we could improve your experience then come and have a chat.
Who am I when I’m off Duty?
I live in a wonderfully chaotic house with my husband, three kids, and a dog. My main activities include juggling mum duties and sneaking in naps whenever possible. When I’m not in full-on mum mode, I love diving into a good book, taking day trips, and escaping to the Isle of Wight for some much-needed relaxation.
Vice President Achievement and Belonging
wren.sell@bnu.ac.uk
Wave hello to Wren, your Vice President Achievement and Belonging.
My role oversees the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion work of the Students’ Union as well as the sustainability efforts and all the co-curricular activities we offer. I get to work with our amazing Training and Development, Events, and Student Activities teams to help make your university experience an unforgettable one!
I’m involved in making sure you’re supported in developing new skills, gaining new qualifications, and boosting your employability. I help to provide opportunities for you to participate in everything from sports & societies to daytrips and activities as well as the charitable fundraising events and volunteering.
I also get to contribute to the fantastic daytime, nighttime, and cultural events the Students’ Union plans! When it comes to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; I sit on the university and SU’s committees to ensure everyone is doing as much as possible to increase diversity and equality and create an inclusive, safe environment for all of our students. I also sit on the sustainability committees to make sure we continue to do our bit for the planet!
As well as all this, my role as an Elected Officer means I sit on the Union’s Trustee Board to ensure that we’re sticking to our principles and making life better for students at Bucks.
If you want to get in touch, you can pop into my office or email me on wren.sell@ bnu.ac.uk or pop me a message on my insta @buckssuvpab
What are my priorities for this year?
Organising more disability specific sport sessions and ensuring all students feel welcome to join sport and society sessions.
Striving to make societies more accessible for students at Uxbridge and Aylesbury campuses.
Continue to raise awareness of men’s mental health and promote related support.
There are other important projects I plan to take up this coming year so please also look out for those!
What do I do outside of work?
I’m quite an active person, spending most evenings doing a sport of some kind. I currently play centre back for Bucks WFC and libero for our volleyball team and Wycombe Eagles Volleyball Club, however I also really enjoy reading and video games. Oh, and Lego :)
Hi, I’m Harry! Pleasure to meet you.
I’ll be you’re new Vice President for Education and Welfare for the High Wycombe Campus. I have come from more of a catering background within the Students' Union, being a part of the Bar team whilst also hosting the Big Quiz!
I came to Buckinghamshire New University in 2021 to study Acting (TV, Film and Stage) and have enjoyed my time integrating myself within the community. I ran for this role as I have always been passionate about lending a helping hand and care dearly about this community I have become a part of.
My Plans for this year include:
Promoting healthy communication across campus:
This is an issue that is close to me due to my passion for mental welfare. My aim is to adopt an environment in which people can talk openly with one another about any issues they are facing within their lives, whether that be education based or not. This is to alleviate the stigma of bottling up your worries and making students feel comfortable within the University.
Promoting good physical health:
In my experience, Physical health has had a strong link with mental health. This can be down to incorporating a good amount of daily exercise into your routine, having a well rounded and nutritional diet and even getting a good night’s rest. As part of my mission to promote positive welfare, I would like to also educate everyone at BNU on living a healthy lifestyle!
Maintaining academic integrity:
It’s no secret that sometimes life gets in the way and can hinder your studies. This year I would like to continue the hard work that our team does to keep academic injustice in check to ensure you are being treated fairly!
As it goes, those are only some of my plans that i have in place for this year and will have plenty more to share with you soon! It has been a great honour to take up this role and I only hope that I will serve you well in my role!
If you have any queries or concerns, please don’t hesitate to pop in and say hello, or email me at harry.tomlinson@bnu.ac.uk
Volunteer of the Year 2024... Bethany Jackson!
Hello! I’m Bethany, your elected Vice President
Education and Welfare for Uxbridge and Aylesbury for 2024-25. I’m very excited to have been elected into this role and have many exciting things planned. I love helping in any way that I can and want to support individuals to achieve their best.
I joined BNU in 2021 to study Sports Psychology. I had 3 amazing years of study with some awesome people and achieved more than I thought I would throughout my time here.
Throughout my years I was heavily involved in the Students’ Union. I was a member of societies and clubs, representation, leadership academy, and volunteering. I was the secretary for BNU Psychology Society and Bucks Musical Theatre (Society of the Year 2024). As part of my representation, I was a student rep for my psychology cohort for 2 consecutive years and took on the mantle of School Officer for the school of Human and Social Sciences in my final year. Having these experiences boosted my character and skills in many ways, inspiring me to stand in the election.
My focus for this year:
“It’s all about you!” – This was my slogan for the election period and will remain the focus of my time in office.
A few things I will be working on include:
Wellbeing:
Support for wellbeing, both physical and mental, is a priority of mine and I will be looking at implementing different methods to provide support, as well as signposting the services that the Union offer (e.g., SU Advice Centre).
Leadership:
There are many opportunities for leadership within the Students’ Union and I want to raise awareness of these opportunities, particularly on the Uxbridge and Aylesbury Campuses. As well as working with the teams to create toolkits and ‘how-to-guides’ for these different roles.
Development:
Development is viewed in many different aspects and there are many opportunities for this (leadership academy, leadership roles, volunteering) and I want to highlight these across the Uxbridge and Aylesbury campuses, as well as providing more support and specific development for more students.
These are just small snap shots of my plans for the year, and I have more that I am working on, which I’m very excited to share with you all!
Please do stop by and say hello or stop by for a chat, or you can email me:
bethany.jackson@bnu.ac.uk
Additional Skills & Recreational Activities
At Bucks Students’ Union everything offered is FREE to our students, courtesy of The Big Deal. Whether you need to boost your CV, learn a new skill or just unwind on a great day out we are to here to help! Already lined up for you this year we have:
Skills
Mental Health Awareness
Our two hour course includes activities, film and discussion to explore 4 areas of mental health: illness, stress, stigma and wellbeing.
Emergency First Aid
A key skill for anyone to have, but also looks great on a CV! This will teach you the basics of the role of a first aider and how to deal with managing an emergency and what to do in the first instance while waiting for help.
Activities
London Comic Con
Reserve your free space to see TV and film stars, independent creators, the best in UK cosplay and all the little moments you just don’t get anywhere else.
Singing lessons
One to one tuition with a qualified tutor for a 5 week block of lessons! Whether you want to improve your singing voice for auditions in the future or just improve your karaoke voice these FREE classes will help!
We are always looking for new activities to arrange for you! So if you think of something not listed, please come down and see us at the Students’ Union office (High Wycombe) or email surecactivities@bnu.ac.uk so we can see if we can arrange your activity.
JobShop
Make your money jiggle jiggle...
At the Students’ Union we understand that the majority of our students will need to work while studying with us and with that in mind we have tried to make finding local part time work that bit easier for you with our JobShop page!
Found on our website, we update this page regularly with local part time opportunities, in a range of different sectors so hopefully there will be something there for you including: retail, caring, bar work, tutoring, hospitality, sports coaching and more.
Whilst we understand the impact of the cost of living crisis, we do not recommend that students
Escape room
Bring some friends along or make some new ones at a great local venue in High Wycombe! The stag do that went wrong! It was only supposed to be one quiet drink, but instead, heads are hazy and you’ve lost the groom. You awake the morning after the night before to find yourself in the town police cell with an hour until the church bells will ring. Can you retrace your steps, and get him to the church on time?
And there’s more! For a full list of additional skills and recreational activities and for more details on how to reserve your free tickets, visit the What’s On page of our website.
work more than 20 hours per week while undertaking a full time course. This is to ensure that you are able to give time to your degree, but also so that you have some time to take care of yourself and enjoy your experience at Buckinghamshire New University!
If there is something more specific you are looking for, or would like support in writing your CV or applications, we are here to help!
Please arrange an appointment with us by emailing jobshop@bnu.ac.uk.
By Sarah Jackson
Leadership Academy
It's never too early to start planning your career
So get a jumpstart as we are now accepting applications for our 2023/24 intake!
The Leadership Academy is an entirely bespoke and individual programme to help you reach your goals for the year, and beyond. We welcome applications from students in any year of study and can support you throughout your time with us at university and once you have graduated!
The programme starts with an in-depth initial meeting to learn a little more about you, your commitments and what you would like to achieve or would like support with during your time with us. We can help by providing additional training opportunities to boost your CV or help with softer, transferable skills such as time management or building confidence. We will signpost to different services offered by the Students’ Union and the university or other local organisations and arrange a mentor in a relevant industry to you. You will have access to a FREE Strengthscope session with a qualified practitioner where you can learn more about your strengths as well as FREE leadership workshops
and access to a community of students through our student leader socials.
You will also be entitled to a FREE hoodie, career fact file and a guaranteed invitation to our annual Union Awards! We will work flexibly around your commitments both in and outside of university, offering appointments both in person or online depending on your preference and keeping in contact through the year by a method of your choice, such as phone, email or meetings. The frequency of these sessions is again entirely up to you and the level of support you would like, ranging from bi-weekly to once every couple of months.
This really is a programme designed to support you in achieving your goals in a completely bespoke, flexible and manageable way. See what our previous Leadership Academy graduates have had to say about this programme:
To apply please visit our website and complete the online application form on the Leadership Academy page under jobs and Skills. If you have any questions, please pop down and see us in the Students’ Union office in North Wing (High Wycombe) or drop us an email at sutraining@bnu.ac.uk.
Creating
future leaders
“I am incredibly grateful for the flexibility and individual planning that the Leadership Academy does. It makes a huge difference in facilitating those on busy/diverse courses being able to partake.”
“The Leadership Academy has given me access to bespoke training courses relevant to my industry. It has also allowed me to take tests to analyse my strengths as an individual, look through and improve my CV, and overall has given me great guidance on how to cope with a busy workload and stay resilient!”
“The Leadership Academy has given me the support and confidence I needed to pursue a graduate career”
“The Leadership Academy helped me to “keep on track” with both my studies and my future endeavours, by finding opportunities which I wouldn’t/ couldn’t have found on my own”
Looking to enhance your university experience participating in something you love? Then why not join one of our many societies we have on offer!
We have a total of 31 societies which you can join ranging from physical activity (Blades HEMA, Climbing and Karate), societies linked to your courses (Business and Law, Cyberspace Games Development and Paramedicine) and common interest (Men’s Mental Health, Men’s Mental Health and Podcase). This is only a handful available to you, so for a full list visit bucksstudentsunion.org/ activities/socs
All our societies are preparing for your arrival and have some fantastic plans in the works to engage you and get the most out of your university life. Each society is led by a committee who have been in your shoes and know exactly how you are feeling. Feeling nervous, no need to worry, our societies will help you settle into university life by helping you meet new people and gain some friends for life and this is only some of the amazing feedback we received last year! Is there something you are interested in which we do not offer? Why not set up a society of your very own, all you need is 3 people. You will get the full support of us here at the Students’ Union to help you get going, ranging from help with the initial paperwork to providing you with some funding to get the society up and running. Leading a society is a great way of enhancing your CV, providing organisation and communication skills which will help you in any career. For further information on how to set up a society contact susocieties@bnu. ac.uk or you can find us on Instagram @bucksstudentsactivities
Societies
Daniel Lawrence Student Activities Coordinator (Recreational Sport and Societies)
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, 5.30–7.30pm. 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-ofliving 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
Bucks SU Pres
Vice President Education and Walfare (High Wycome) Email harry.tomlinson@bnu.ac.uk
Vice President Education and Walfare (Uxbridge & Aylesbury) Email bethany.jackson@bnu.ac.uk
Terms and Conditions:
-
Rusty’s Gold card is available from The Lounge at just £12 for the year or £7 for six months.
Valid in The Lounge (only), this entitles you to a 15% discount on all hot and soft drinks, and exclusive promotions throughout the year.
Some of the regular additional promotions you can expect to see will include: 15% off food in The Lounge, special deals and toppings to name a few.
Check Facebook and cafe displays for current deals.
Your voice, just louder...
Representation
Are you looking to expand your university experience, build career-boosting skills, or make a difference for students at BNU? If so, you may be interested in one of our part-time student leadership positions. To learn more, take a read of the roles available this year...
Student Representatives
Student reps are elected by their course mates to provide a credible student voice to feedback to the University. Student reps can instigate change, minimise miscommunication between staff and students, ensure that assumptions are not made about the student experience, and improve their course for future years. They are elected by their peers to be the voice of their course and are the first point of contact for the students they represent for concerns or positive feedback.
Becoming a student rep is an amazing opportunity to gain skills and experience in several areas and, most importantly, represent the views of your year or cohort. Student reps are rewarded up to £100, gain in-demand skills such as leadership, negotiation, and teamwork, and make an impact for themselves and their course. Each year of every course needs a student rep, so why not put yourself forward and ensure your peers have a say in their university experience, all whilst boosting your CV?
How do I submit my nomination?
Nominations open at 10am, Monday 30 September and close at midday, Friday 18 October 2024. Voting will take place the following week.
You can submit your nomination at bucksstudentsunion.org/ elections/studentrep, or by emailing surepresentation@bnu.ac.uk with the below details:
• Full name
• Student ID
• Course and year of study
• Contact email
Student Voice Officers
Student Voice Officers (previously known as Executive Officers) play a crucial role in representing students from diverse backgrounds and experiences, ensuring the Students’ Union is inclusive and community-driven.
You will work alongside the other Student Voice Officers, our full-time elected officers, and staff to ensure the Union meets its objectives and continues to operate in the best interests of its members. We are particularly looking for students from all backgrounds including a range of ethnicities, ages, genders, levels and modes of study, and academic schools.
As a Student Voice Officer, you will plan and lead campaigns to enhance the student experience, especially for the groups you represent. You will participate in Union and University committees, communicate with key stakeholders, and scrutinize reports on Union operations. Additionally, you will promote and support Students’ Union events, ensuring a high-quality experience for all members.
This role is played at an hourly rate of £13.46 (including holiday allowance) and provides valuable career experience and networking opportunities within a vibrant student-led organisation. Additional benefits include support with Leadership Academy applications, considerable opportunities for networking, training, and personal development, and personalised one-to-one support.
School Officers
School Officers collate information on the student experience in their school, by liaising with student reps to gain an understanding of the areas for improvement affecting students across the range of courses, alongside areas of good practice, and feeding this back to the Students’ Union and
University. They also help the Representation team throughout the year with various admin tasks associated with representation, including promoting feedback collection and communicating regularly with student reps. There is at least one School Officer across the seven larger Schools: Art, Design and Performance, Aviation and Security, Business and Law, Creative and Digital Industries, Health and Social Care Professions, Human and Social Sciences, and Nursing and Midwifery. School Officers are rewarded up to £350, as well as extra support from the Students’ Union, and additional training and development opportunities.
We have fulfilled all vacancies for this academic year, your officers are as follows:
Art, Design and Performance (Performance): Erin Cook
Art, Design and Performance (Art and Design): Laura Eustration
Aviation and Security: Ritamary Benny
Business and Law: Peter Ashiagbor
Creative and Digital Industries (Creative): Con Macadam
Creative and Digital Industries (Digital): Euan McGinness
Health and Social Care Professions: Sam Brooks
Human and Social Sciences: Kaitlin Pearce
Nursing and Midwifery (Uxbridge): Hannah Ward
Nursing and Midwifery (Aylesbury): Daniela Leonard
If you would like any more information on these roles, feel free to contact the Representation team:
Email: surepresentation@bnu.ac.uk
Facebook: Bucks Rep
X: @bucksrep
Instagram: @Bucksrep
Bucks Students’ Union Advice Centre
To make an appointment, email suadvice@bnu.ac.uk, appointments can be: By telephone - we will phone you, or online through Teams - we will organise this.
Telephone and online appointments are preferable during this current situation and will ususally available within 24 to 48 hours of a request during the normal working week from 10am to 4pm Mon to Thurs and 3pm on Fri. Appointments outside these times are possible but may take longer to arrange.
Lastly, Mind also have a network of around 125 local Minds across the UK that offer specialised support and care based on the needs of the communities they support. For over 100 years, Buckinghamshire Mind has been a trusted charity and work to support and represent people with mental health problems living in Bucks. They have branches in High Wycombe and Aylesbury, as well as Hillingdon Mind for Uxbridge students.
Buckinghamshire Mind
Phone: 01296 437328
Email: info@bucksmind.org.uk
Hillingdon Mind
Phone: 01895 271559
Email: mind@hillingdonmind.org.uk
Freshers’ Fortnight Festivities!
Have a look at what activities we have got on for you for Freshers’ fortnight, don’t forget that we have more on the What’s On page.
FRESHERS' WEEK 1:
SATURDAY 28 SEPT – SUNDAY 6 OCT
FRESHERS' WEEK 2:
MONDAY 7 SEPT – SATURDAY 12 OCT
Wednesday 2 October: Freshers Fair
Come along to see all the stalls, from Sports clubs to Skills and Development. You can find out what our Students Union has to offer for all students. There will be some freebies including sweets and Pizza from Domino’s.
Thursday 3 October:
Back to the Future: The Musical
Follow Marty McFly get sent back 30 years in a time-travelling DeLorean. There will be original songs and classic songs from the movie. Sign up to watch Back to the Future at the Theatre in London, this is a must-watch!
Friday 4 October: London Museums
Explore the London Natural History Museum and the Science Museum as well as enough time to explore the different London sights! You will take a Coach up to London, where you can take in the sights driving throughout.
If there is anything that you would like to see put on, please do let us know!! We are very happy to try out new activities and see what you love to do.
Monday 7 October:
Tote Bag Designing
Bring your artistic skills to the Lounge as we will be designing tote bags! The bags are perfect for everyday use, and you can customise it to make it your own. No need to bring anything as we will supply it all.
Tuesday 8 October:
VR journey through Earth History
Explore 3.5 billion years of Earth’s history and living organisms through a VR headset. Immerse yourself in the landscapes of the past and meet spectacular creatures with virtual reality technology. Meet all kinds of spectacular species along the way… including dinosaurs and marine reptiles!
Thursday 10 October: First aid
Want to learn first aid before the year starts? You will learn: CPR and how to use an AED, Burns, Minor Injuries a nd assessment of a scene. This course is perfect for those going into healthcare settings or working in customerfacing jobs.
Thursday 10 October:
Escape Room: The Big Hangover
An escape room filled with puzzles, riddles, and secrets. All will help you work out what happened on the stag do that went wrong! You awake the morning after the night before to find yourself in the town police cell with an hour until the church bells will ring. Can you retrace your steps and get him to the church on time?
Wednesday 9 October:
Windsor Boat Tour
A short 40-minute cruise goes upstream to Boveney Lock & returns with fantastic views of Windsor Castle, Eton College, Mill House, Windsor Racecourse & the Brocas Meadows. The view of the Castle from the river is undoubtedly the finest there is, making this trip excellent for those who are visiting Windsor for the first time.
Friday 12 October:
Rush Trampoline Park
This isn’t your typical night on the town. Get ready to fly high and find the FUN as our Rush playlist keeps the atmosphere running all night. Explore our most exciting equipment, from Extreme Dodgeball, Wipeout, our huge AirBag, slam dunk basketball, Rush assault course or simply dance your way down our sea of wall-to-wall, interconnected trampolines with you and your friends.
WXVED: ZieZie
Monday 30 September, 10PM – 3AM, The Venue
It’s been a nonstop few years for ZieZie, from bursting onto the scene with ‘Fine Girl’ in 2018 to a string of smash hit collaborations with multi-platinum selling artist, Aitch. In the space of a few years, ZieZie has accumulated an impressive 4 UK Top 40 entries, amassed over 250 million streams globally and lists industry heavy hitters; Joel Corry, Sigma and Sigala as collaborators. Becoming a platinumselling artist has led to the multitalented individual receiving strong ongoing media support from the likes of Complex, Clash, DJ Target, Robert Bruce and many more. Stepping into 2022, a spectacular co-sign and feature on viral sensation Liilz, ‘Glad U Came’ saw the smash hit rise to worldwide prominence boasting accolades including a number one trending TikTok sound and number one chart position on Spotify in a variety of countries across the continent.
OMB! Jack Fowler
Wednesday 9 October, 10PM – 3AM, The Venue
A fan favourite since his TV debut on 'Love Island: Season 4' in 2018; Jack was an obvious choice for, and the ultimate winner of, ITV USA's debut spin off 'Love Island Games' - airing on Peacock in 2023 and now on ITVX in 2024. With an infectious personality and general-bringer-of-goodvibes, Jack makes for great viewing, and has featured on a number of shows including 'The Big Narstie Show', 'Don't Hate The Playaz', 'Get In The Van', and the infamous, 'Does The Shoe Fit?' DJ'ing for Jack started out not only as a hobby, but also as a lifeline. In late 2019 Jack began experiencing symptoms of Transverse Myelitis, an extremely rare condition brought on by a prior meningitis diagnosis a few months earlier. As his symptoms took hold in 2020, Jack was completely paralysed down his entire left side and had to undergo extensive treatment to regain his movement. With recovery slow and Jack having no option but to remain seated, he began teaching himself to DJ as something to keep his hands & mind active. Against very slim odds, Jack went on to make a full physical recovery and 4 years later things continue to go from strength to strength. Jack has released a debut single 'Foolish' ft. Tom Zanetti with UMG’s Island Records; played back-2-back shows across the globe with international sets as far and wide as the Maldives to Dubai; and booked multiple European + UK tours and Festivals. Away from the decks, Jack has maintained his presence both on and offline.
Freshers Ball: SIGMA Saturday 12 October, 9PM – 3AM, The Venue Sigma are one of the biggest Drum and Bass artists in the world, amassing over 7 million global sales including hit singles 'Nobody To Love', 'Changing and Find Me'. With two U.K. Number 1’s under their belt and countless main stage festival performances around the globe, Sigma firmly cemented their place as pioneers of drum and bass crossing into the mainstream. The Sigma hit machine became a well-oiled creation. The Life album became their calling card and they just kept on expanding their remit. Spreading out from drum'n'bass to house and pure pop, they proved that they could work with vocalists of all stripes - and that their DJ, and very soon live sets too, could work on the biggest stages to the most diverse crowds. And they kept working worldwide - "even though you might find you'd booked yourself to be in Estonia on Sunday and Ibiza on Monday and have to take six flights" - just barely keeping themselves fit and sane as they did. Over the next five years, they just kept on smashing the biggest festival stages across the world and kept new tracks coming with a-list vocalists like Birdy, John Newman and Jack Savoretti - while Joe, as obsessive about perfecting technical skills in the studio as he ever was behind the decks, was lending production and songwriting skills to records by Savoretti, Take That and more.
By Georgia Haynes and Keleigh Brady
Raise and Give
Hello everyone and welcome to another RAG update.
Now the ambassadors for 2024-25 have taken the reins, we have already got a hell of a calendar heading your way from September, but before we start to introduce the events and offer the opportunity to gain volunteering hours, I think you should know a bit about us first. Our job is to represent your chosen charity, to organise and host events throughout the year to raise money for the charity, and to have some fun and make memories as we do so!
Willkommen, Bienvenue, welcome, to the new season of RAG, my name is Georgia Haynes, otherwise referred to as George, Georgie, or G. I am 19 years old, from MK, and am in my 2nd-year of the Musical Theatre course. I am known as the loudmouth, or the marmite of the group so make of that what you will… I am also diagnosed autistic so big up the neurodiverse community! During my first year, I have loved attending as many events as possible, being a committed part of BNU Dance and Bucks Musical Theatre and many other societies throughout the year, as well as volunteering with all sorts of chaos throughout the university all in the name of charity! I am looking forward to sharing all our silly, quirky events with you as well as the much-loved standard RAG events, like Netball and Volleyball. I can’t wait to see which charity the students choose this year and promise to do my best to have fun and ultimately raise some money for those in need.
Hi! My name is Keleigh Brady, otherwise known as Paddy. I’m 19, from Belfast, Ireland, and am in my 2nd year of my Sport and Exercise Psychology course. For the upcoming year, we have a lot planned and I hope it lives up to the expectations and standards from previous years. The past year I have been quite active within the Student’s Union, as I am a part of the Netball Team, Chair of Women's Football for 24/25 and help out with other sports whenever needed. A plan I have this year that I hope to achieve, is to get as many students involved as possible, within sports clubs and societies but also those who are not a part of these as all the university should have a chance to engage in what we have to offer. I look forward to being able to share what we have planned for the upcoming year and hope that all students (and staff) throw themselves into our activities and give it their all!
Well now you know who we are, maybe now is a good time to announce that our first RAG week will be from Monday 28 October - Friday 1 November, so the time to start preparing for Halloween is now, and if anyone is looking for volunteering hours to kick off the year right then you can speak to Georgia or Keleigh, or head to the SU office (Kelly or Wren) to let us know when and what you would like to volunteer for.
We can’t wait to see everyone back in September to welcome the new freshers and get this thing on the road, here’s to 2024-25!!
Enjoy the rest of your summer,
See you soon, from your 2024-25 RAG Ambassadors
My name is Ritamary Benny, and I am thrilled to introduce myself to the Bucks community as a second-year BSc Aviation Management with Pilot Training student. Originally hailing from the vibrant and culturally rich land of India, I have embarked on this exciting journey to combine my passion for aviation with management skills.
My Academic Journey
Currently, in my second year, I am deeply immersed in the fascinating world of aviation. The BSc Aviation Management with Pilot Training program is uniquely designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the aviation industry, covering everything from airline operations and airport management to the technical aspects of flying. This blend of theory and practical experience is what drew me to this course, and it has been an incredible learning experience so far.
My Role with Bucks New Usage
In addition to my studies, I am proud to be involved with Bucks New Usage, an initiative that provides second-hand items to students for free. This program is incredibly valuable, helping students save money and reduce waste by offering gently used items such as clothing, books, and household goods. As an ambassador for Bucks New Usage, I assist in organizing and promoting the distribution of these items, ensuring that my fellow students have access to the resources they need without financial strain.
Impact of Bucks New Usage
Bucks New Usage has made a significant impact on the student community by fostering a culture of sustainability and support. By repurposing items that might otherwise go to waste, the program not only helps the environment but also promotes a sense of community among students. The initiative reduces the financial burden on students, allowing them to focus more on their studies and less on financial stress. It's heartwarming to see how a simple act of giving can create a ripple effect, enhancing the overall well-being of our student body.
I look forward to connecting with many of you in the Bucks community. Whether you share a passion for aviation or are interested in Bucks New Usage, I am always happy to share my experiences and insights. Together, let's explore the skies and make the most of the resources available to us!
Warm regards,
Ritamary Benny
Second Year BSc Aviation Management with Pilot Training Student
Bucks New Usage Ambassador
Green Ambassador
Hello, my name is Beau (He/They), I am 21 years old and a year 2 Counseling Psychology. I have been at Buckinghamshire New University for 2 years now as I started out as a foundation year student. I am BNU’s Green Ambassador, I am looking forward to being a Green Ambassador as I am deeply passionate about the environment, and I have always wanted to help make a change but have never been able to. Now that BNU has given me the opportunity to, I want to help the university to become greener through my own ideas, the ideas of students and lecturers.
If anyone has any ideas or any opinions on what they would like to see from BNU to help it become greener then please feel free to contact me. Beau Cooke: 22104418@bucks.ac.uk
Volunteering Find a way to give back with...
Last year our students volunteered over 18,500 hours in the community, running clubs and societies and through our internal Students' Union projects! Our students also managed to raise an amazing £21,800 last year for RAG.
Volunteering at University can be so beneficial for you and can easily coincide with your studies. Volunteering can be anything from being on a committee for a club or society, to giving back to the community either by helping with a river clean or helping with Horses Trust. It can be anything in which you give up your own time to give back to something or someone else.
Here at Bucks Students’ Union, we are always encouraging students to volunteer as there are so many great benefits that you gain. Volunteering looks great on your CV and also provides you with many experiences and skills which will be great for your time beyond university.
Volunteering can be extremely rewarding and enjoyable and it is also a chance to meet like-minded people and make new friends. Volunteering opportunities are varied and there is definitely something for everyone, from six-month internships to one-off volunteering opportunities selling poppies for the British Legion. There is always an opportunity to get involved which we can make fit around everyone’s busy university schedule and individual passions.
There are so many volunteering opportunities in place for the year, if you want to see what we are offering visit the Bucks Students’ Union website and visit the volunteering portal where all the opportunities are kept. Students who volunteer their time get rewarded by being awarded with certificates based on the hours they have put in. The hours are:
• Bronze award - 50 hours
• Silver award - 100 hours
• Gold award - 200 hours
• Platinum award - 400 hours
If you reach your Platinum Volunteering award, you will be invited to our annual Union Awards dinner evening to be presented with your certificate.
This academic year we are continuing our volunteering bundles! If you reach 30 community hours, you will be able to collect your very own volunteering kit which includes a T-shirt, hoodie, backpack, portable charger and more! We want you to be kitted out in a volunteering stash ready for any opportunity you may want to get involved with. There are only 50 bundles available, so be quick and get logging those hours.
Meet Your Volunteer Ambassadors
2024-25
Our Volunteer Ambassadors role is to assist the Student Activities Team in providing volunteering opportunities for students. Collaborating alongside our Sports Clubs, Societies, Student Reps and Student Leaders across all our campuses to increase participation of Volunteering opportunities to boost students co-curricular skills, whilst also creating a fun volunteering environment for all students to get involved in our amazing student community!
Meet Esther!
Hi, my name is Esther, I am in my third year studying Early Childhood Studies and Primary Education. I am also Secretary for Bucks Musical Theatre Society. I started Volunteering with the SU during my second year with my favourite volunteering moments including Dance Comp and Beach Cleans. I can’t wait to start creating new opportunities for everyone!
Meet Ellie!
Hiya I’m Ellie, I am a postgraduate student, studying Applied Positive Psychology. I am also a part of our Student Sta Team at the Students’ Union. I have been Volunteering with the SU since my first year at the University. My favourite volunteer moments have been Volunteering at Festiball, Packing Student Resources such as Wellbeing Boxes and being a Student Leader.
I am looking forward to a fantastic 2024-25 of Volunteering. We have lots of exciting upcoming opportunities this year!
By Esther Stephenson and Ellie Lee
We are Esther & Ellie your 2024-25 Volunteer Ambassadors!
At Bucks Students’ Union we have loads of Volunteering projects for all students to get involved with, whether this is out and about in the community or around the University and Students’ Union or virtually, there is always plenty of opportunities to get stuck in with! We are always keen to hear from students about what volunteering projects would benefit you, so there is also the option to always suggest new opportunities too!
If you have any Volunteering queries do let us know by contacting: bucksvolunteerambassador@gmail.com You can also follow us on our Social Media platforms:
MONEY ADVICE
2024-25 Guidance
Whilst we hope your time at University is all plain sailing and smiles, the Advice Centre is always here should that not be the case. We are the Advice Centre, here to listen to, advise and support students by providing a professional, independent and confidential service, which is accessible and welcoming. We will use our experience and knowledge on student issues to influence University thinking to make life better for students at BNU.
To give you an idea of how much money you will need, here are some figures of what an average student might expect to spend in a week:
• Rent
• Groceries
• Daily Travel
• Socialising
• Course Costs
• Takeaways
£133
£30
£15
£40
The total average spending in this example is £238 per week. Obviously, this does not mean that this will be your weekly expenditure, so it is important to work out what your budget will be for the year and plan accordingly. The money you may receive in loans from Student Finance and any other grants or bursaries will probably not be enough to meet all your expenses, so money from a part-time job or from parents will be needed. It is also important to prioritise your expenditure, for instance making sure that you have enough money to pay your rent, bills and for food before you spend your money on other less important things.
Most full-time students in higher education are not eligible for any welfare benefits, but some are.
Visit gov.uk for information on benefits.
If you are on any welfare benefits before you start your course, you must inform the relevant agency that you are now on a full-time higher education course. If you are eligible for student funding some of it is counted as income for benefit purposes.
If everyone living in a house is a full-time student, then the household is exempt from Council Tax. However, the Council will need proof, this can be obtained from The Student Centre. If not, everyone is a full-time student, then come to us for advice as it is complicated.
Anyone on a low income can apply for help with health costs. To apply for help you will need to fill in an HC1 form and we have these in the Students’ Union Advice Centre.
Hopefully by now you have sorted out your finances for this academic year and know what you’ll be getting in terms of student support or if you’re not eligible for student support, have enough money available to see you through.
If you have not, you need to get this sorted as a matter of urgency. Arriving at university without enough money will make your life very tough and can impact on your ability to pass your course.
Hopefully by now you have sorted out your finances for this academic year, and know what you’ll be getting in terms of student support or if you’re not eligible for student support, have enough money available to see you through. If you haven’t, you need to get this sorted as a matter of urgency. Arriving at university without enough money will make your life very tough and can impact on your ability to pass your course.
TOTUM
TOTUM (used to be called NUS extra card) gives you great discounts and savings. Visit totum.com to get your card now.
Useful websites
Money Saving Expert moneysavingexpert.com
We cannot recommend this website enough. It is full of helpful information about all things to do with money. Particularly check out the budget planner, information on the best student bank accounts, the exclusive deals and information on student sponsorships and grants.
Turn2us
turn2us.org.uk
Turn2us is a national charity helping people when times get tough. A good website if you are a single parent on benefits, a section on studying and it has a grant search.
Bucks Students’ Union Advice Centre
High Wycombe Campus
tel: 01494 603 016 suadvice@bnu.ac.uk
Uxbridge Campus tel: 01494 605 180 bucksstudentsunion.org/advice
Useful contacts
Student Finance England gov.uk/student-finance
Telephone: 0300 100 0607
Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm
Saturday and Sunday, 9am-4pm
Text relay (Relay UK)
(if you cannot hear or speak on the phone) 18001 then 0300 100 0607
Student Finance Northern Ireland studentfinanceni.co.uk
Student Finance Scotland saas.gov.uk
Student Finance Wales studentfinancewales.co.uk
Student Finance EU team
Telephone: 0141 243 3570
From outside the UK: +44 1412 433 570
Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm
NHS Student Bursaries nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students
Ridgway House, Northgate Close, Middlebrook, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 6PQ
Telephone: 0300 330 1345
Twitter: @NHSBSA_Students Facebook: /NHSstudentbursaries
Social Work Bursary
nhsbsa.nhs.uk/students
Social Work Bursaries, PO Box 141, Hesketh House, 200-220 Broadway, Fleetwood, FY7 9AS
Telephone: 0300 330 1342
Twitter: @SWB_NHSBSA
Facebook: /socialworkbursaries
UKCISA (The UK Council for International Student Affairs) ukcisa.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7788 9214
Monday to Friday, 1-4pm
Contact for advice and information on all overseas student issues, including funding and immigration.
Financial help for disabled students in higher education gov.uk/disabled-students-allowance-dsa
Buckinghamshire New University Hardship Fund
The Buckinghamshire New University Financial Aid - Hardship Fund (FA-HF) can offer support if you are in financial hardship. Each application is assessed by The Student Centre following the BNUHF guidelines. If you receive a payment, it will be based on the assessment. Each student’s reasons for applying and financial situation will differ from each other.
You are eligible to apply if you are a ‘home’ full time or part-time student. You must be receiving all funding you are eligible for prior to applying to the fund. The fund. EU students who continue to be funded by Student Finance can apply to the Financial Aid - Hardship Fund, you will need to provide evidence of your Tuition Fee Loan. If you are a part-time student, you must be studying the equivalent of 50% of a full-time course. Certain categories of students fall into priority groups for financial help from the Financial AidHardship Fund. Payments are given as grants which do not have to be repaid. Applications can take some time to process, so you are strongly advised to apply before you run out of money if you are in financial hardship. The fund does not have to be repaid. If you want to apply for BNUHF or for more information, please make an appointment to see an advisor in either Advice Centre.
For eligible healthcare students only if you started your undergraduate healthcare course on or after 1 August 2017 or you are a postgraduate student that started a course on or after 1 August 2018, you may be eligible to apply for the NHS Learning Support Fund (LSF).
The LSF provides eligible students access to the Training Grant, Parental Support (PA), Travel and Dual Accommodation Expenses (TDAE), and the Exceptional Support Find (ESF). The Training Grant is a non-means tested grant of £5000 paid each academic year in three instalments. An additional £1000 is paid to students on specific courses including mental health nursing. You will need evidence of eligibility in the form of your Student Finance letter to apply. The PA provides full-time students who are responsible for dependent children under the age of 15 (17 if the child has special educational needs) on the first day of the academic year. Eligible students will receive a non-repayable grant of £2,000. The funding is paid in three instalments (£500 in term 1, £500 in term 2, £1,000 in term 3). If you are a part-time student, you may be eligible for pro-rata funding, contact the NHS directly for more details.
The TDAE allows you to apply for your travel and dual accommodation claims. Eligible students are entitled to have some of the additional costs of attending placement reimbursed. The ESF is an additional non-repayable hardship fund, and it is available to eligible healthcare students only.
For more information on the Learning Support Fund and to check your eligibility, please visit: nhsbsa.nhs.uk/nhs-learning-support-fund.
Useful Apps for Mental Health
Be Mindful
You will complete 10 sessions lasting 30 minutes each that consist of video, meditation audio and interactive exercises.
Hub of Hope
is a national mental health database, bringing help and support together in one place.
Beat Panic
is designed to guide people through a panic attact or raised anxiety using their phone.
Calm Harm
is an app designed to help people resist or manage the urge to self-harm.
distrACT
This app gives you easy, quick and discrete access to information and advice about self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
Sleepio
is an online sleep improvement programme, clinically proven to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep through the night, and give you more energy during the day.
Some of these apps will charge but many are free. (source NHS Moodzone)
Mental Health Related Helplines
Alcoholics Anonymous
Phone: 0845 769 7555 (24-hour helpline)
Website: www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Anxiety UK
Phone: 03444 775 774 (Monday to Friday. 9:30am - 5:30pm)
Website: www.anxietyuk.org.uk
Bipolar UK
A charity helping people living with manic depression or bipolar.
Website: www.bipolaruk.org.uk
Men's Health Forum
24/7 stress support for men by text, chat and email.
Website: www.menshealthforum.org.uk
Relate
The UK's largest provider of relationship support.
Website: www.relate.org.uk
PAPYRUS
Phone: HOPElineUK 0800 068 4141 (Monday to Friday. 10am - 5pm, and 2pm - 5pm on weekends)
Website: www.papyrus-uk.org
Samaritans
Phone: 116 123 (free 24-hour helpline)
Website: www.samaritans.org.uk
YoungMinds
Phone: Parents' helpline 0808 802 5544 (Monday to Friday. 9:30am - 4pm)
Website: www.youngminds.org.uk
Reports and Websites
Mental health statistics (England)House of Commons Library (March 2024)
Mental Health and Wellbeing in England Adult Psychiatric orbidity Survey 2014 NHS digital
Scan Code for Report/Site
Local Suicide Prevention Planning - PHE
Rethink Mental IllnessInformation on disorders
Fundamental Facts about Mental Health 2016 (accessed Sept 2024)
What are social determinants of health?
WHO (World Health Organization)
This app gives you easy, quick and Our World in Data - excellent site for MH statistics
Reading Well Books
Scan Code for Report/Site
Action for Happiness10 keys for happier living
Equality and DiversityFindings from the Mental Health Fellowships
Useful Books
Atomic Habits (2018) - James Clear
Beyond Worthy (2019) - Jacqueline Whitney
The Mountain Is You (2020) - Brianna Wiest
The Power of Now (1997) - Eckhart Tolle
The Strength In Our Scars (2017) - Bianca Sparacino
You Were Not Born To Suffer (2012) - Blake D Bauer
101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think (2016) - Brianna Wiest
Curated by Ian Tuazon
Union Council...
did someone say FREE pizza?
Union Council is the highest form of representation at the Students’ Union and serves as our senior representative body. Meeting throughout the year, the Council was established to represent the voice of the students. It is a platform that informs students about changes to policies within the Union, offers the opportunity to vote on university-wide issues, and directs our lobbying approach.
Every month, our Elected Officers provide updates on their efforts to enhance the student experience, along with a round-up of key changes made at the Union's top-level meetings. Students also can quiz our Officers and hold them to account for their work to better your time at BNU.
Free refreshments are provided at every meeting including FREE Domino's pizza. So not only can you have a major input on the student experience at BNU but you can also grab yourself some free pizza in the process - what's not to love?!
Union Council is led by an elected student Chair, who is responsible for the running of the council and ensuring that all members have the chance to raise and discuss any ideas or issues within the meeting. They help set the agenda, chair discussions, ensure fair representation, and maintain communication with Council members.
Nominations are currently open for the 2024-25 Union Council Chair, so if you want to enhance your CV, gain hands-on experience with time and people management, as well as develop your skills in public speaking and leadership, why not put yourself forward? Nominations open at 10am, Monday 30 September and close at midday, Friday 18 October 2024. Voting will take place the following week.
You can submit your nomination at bucksstudentsunion.org/elections/ unioncouncilchair, or by emailing surepresentation@bnu.ac.uk with the below details:
• Full name
• Student ID
• Contact email
Our first Union Council will be held on Thursday 17 October from 5pm. Keep an eye on the Students’ Unions ‘What’s On’ page for the location and future dates, and for more information or how you can get involved, speak to any member of the Elected Officer team or email surepresentation@bnu.ac.uk
Keep active, try something new, and meet new people!
We are ready to welcome you to Bucks whether you are returning student or coming for the very first time.
Do you want to be active but not compete in sport? You can with our recreational sporting programme. With Sport for Fun you can try a variety of sports regardless of your ability. There is no commitment and the majority of our activities are free of charge and take place on different days, so there is always something for you to try. Sport for Fun gives you the opportunity to take part in sports you may not have previously tried, all in an enjoyable, noncompetitive environment.
What can I get involved in?
We have an action-packed programme for you this year with a mixture of weekly activity such as Football, Netball, Climbing and Cricket. Throughout the year we will also be running lots of fun trips which you can get involved in, Go Karting, Archery, Snowsports and Ice Skating to name just a few, so be sure to keep track of our social media channels for all the latest information. If there is something we currently do not offer and is something you would like us to do, do not hesitate to get in touch.
Bike Hire Scheme
We have a number of bikes which are available to hire throughout the year, where for a deposit you can access the bikes for any purpose that suits your needs, whether this be commuting to uni/work or for general exercise.
SFF Ambassadors
We are looking for student leads for several sports so, if you have a passion for any sport and would like to enhance your CV whilst at university by gaining valuable leadership, organisation and communication get in touch. This is a volunteer role, but we will reward you for your work by paying for a coaching course if this is something you wish to do.
How do I get involved?
If you are interested in participating or would like further information on any of the upcoming events, contact sport@bnu.ac.uk. Oh, and don’t forget to follow us on our social media!
Instagram: @bucksstudentsactivities
By Daniel Lawrence
Daniel Lawrence Student Activities Coordinator (Recreational Sport and Societies)
By Alex Ditchburn
Competitive sport at Bucks.
Can you be our next Hall of Fame inductee?
Here at Bucks, we offer something not many Universities do, Competitive Sports for FREE!
Thanks to The Big Deal you can train and compete each week and not pay a penny. We have fourteen different clubs that you can be a part of ranging from Badminton to Hockey. Check out the list on this page for all the clubs we have.
The majority of our teams play on a Wednesday afternoon anywhere within the Southeast Region of British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) leagues and knockouts. Outside of BUCS we also have Cheer and Dance clubs, they train weekly throughout the year to compete all over the country against a range of universities.
We also offer the opportunity for budding student-athletes to compete in individual sports with a chance to represent us in the BUCS national competitions. Over the last few years, we have sent Snowboarders, track and field athletes, swimmers, and fencers to their chosen competitions. If you are an individual competitor pop down to the SU office and we’ll do everything we can to get you competing in your chosen sport.
Last season, we had three top 3 finishes in leagues (Bucks FC 1’s, Women’s Hockey, and Women’s Volleyball). With two cup quarter-finals and a tantalising
Varsity victory. At the end of each competitive year, we celebrate our teams’ successes at the Athletic Union Awards. These awards include, Team of the Year, Captain of the Year, Sportsman of the year, Sportswoman of the Year and Club of the Year plus many more. With the Club of the year being recognised on the Bucks Students' Union website with a crown.
In addition to the above awards, in 2024, to mark the 25th Athletic Union Awards Dinner, BNU's Hall of Fame was introduced. The Hall of Fame is reserved for individuals who truly excel on the field. The system, that is built on the American model of ‘retiring shirts’, sees us frame the playing shirt of each recipient and hang it, along with a short biography, outside E1.101. This award is not necessarily handed out each year but is in special recognition of someone who has contributed greatly to university sport and represented the University whilst competing at a high level.
Sport at Bucks is something that changes your university experience for the better and an area that you should absolutely get involved in, we asked students what sports meant to them and Kristen Clarke, our Women’s Football Treasurer and Social Secretary said
“To me, sports is not just about getting fit or gaining strength. It's about being part of a team that feels like family. Joining the women's football team has transformed my experience at university and I now have friends I can turn to for advice or just to hang out with. I definitely would recommend joining a team as soon as possible because you won't regret it.”
If you have any questions relating to competitive sport prior to starting at university and know which sport they are for, please visit the Students’ Union website and visit the individual sports page (QR code on this page) to find the relevant contact details.
If the questions are more general or pertain to a sport we do not appear to offer, please contact sport@bnu.ac.uk. Or pop into the Students’ Union office in September/October.
Student Activities Coordinator (Competitive Sport)
• Athletics
• Badminton
• Basketball (Men’s)
• Cheerleading
• Cricket (Men’s)
• Dance
• Football (Men’s and Women’s)
• Futsal (Men’s)
• Hockey (Men’s and Women’s)
• Netball (Women’s)
• Rugby (Men’s)
• Swimming
• Volleyball (Men’s and Women’s)
By Daniel Charlton
Hockey (Men's)
BUCKS VS ROEY
All of us on the Men’s Hockey Committee would like to give a warm welcome to all new and returning students.
Despite a somewhat tough start to the season last year, we ended as we mean to go on, with a hard-fought win against UCL, and then the all-important victory in Varsity. In the back end of the season, we proved that it’s not always about winning every game, but how you respond to the defeats.
Some believed we didn’t have much of a chance, coming up against a Roehampton side in the league above, but the whole team kept our heads high, and whilst it was a toughly fought contest, we came out 5-0 winners, and more importantly, men’s Hockey’s first Varsity win in years.
A hat trick from our new Captain, James Upson, and goals from our incoming Vice-Captain, Jerome Osoba and our former Chair, Madhav Jayalal rounded off a strong performance.
Whilst we’re sad to see a large portion of the team leaving, we wish them well with whatever they go on to do after university and look forward to welcoming a new set of Freshers this year.
As a club, we’re very welcoming of people of all abilities, whether you’ve been playing hockey for years, or if you’ve never picked up a stick in your life, everyone is welcome, with all members helping each other in training to become the best player that they can be.
You can catch us at the Freshers Fair if you’re interested in joining, and you can also contact us on Instagram @bucksmenshockey, or via email at buckshockey2023@gmail.com.
Hockey (Women's)
The Women’s Hockey Club would love to send our best wishes and luck to you all ahead of your enrollment at BNU!
We play in the BUCS League for Women’s Hockey against a range of other universities. We train every week in-season with our coach, who has played Hockey in the Olympics for Team GB! Our games, like all other university sports, happen on a Wednesday. Each game leads up to our final game of the year, Varsity, in which we compete against the BNU rivals, Roehampton. In 2023, Not only did we smash Roehampton in Varsity, but we also won Club of the Year at the Athletic Union Dinner!
As you make your start here at BNU, we cannot recommend joining a club like Hockey enough- it’s a fantastic opportunity for you to meet a whole load of great new people, attend events and make some lifelong memories, as well as an opportunity to keep yourself fit by training and competing! It’s a brilliant way to have a sense of community after making the brave challenge of being away from home. Furthermore, the Club offers a range of activities to get involved with to further your Uni experience, from the aforementioned Athletic Union Dinner, to wonderful volunteering opportunities that look great in personal statements! This year, our goal is to ensure YOU have the best possible start to
your Bucks experience. And did you know? Even if you don’t want to play Hockey matches, you can still join us as a social member, which we have lots of! This means you can join us any Wednesday evening for games and catch-ups before nights out at The Venue, and even attend our Christmas All-Dayer event!
If you’d like to learn more about Women’s Hockey, find us on the Bucks Student Union website (where you can also sign up to join us), or head to our Instagram page, @buckswomenshockey, to get to know a little more about our Committee! You can also DM us on Instagram with any questions you have about the Club, we’re more than happy to answer! And of course, you can catch us at this years Fresher’s Fair, where you can meet some of this year’s Committee in person and ask us anything you’d like!
We massively look forward to welcoming you all! Go Bucks!
Cheerleading
Swanning in for years 2024-25
Hello, we are BNU Swans, a competitive Cheerleading and Pom team!
Being on BNU Swans gives you a chance to see the full force and excitement Cheerleading has to hold. Whether you are a long-time cheerleader, a retired cheerleader looking to get back into it or a complete beginner there will be a spot for you on the team, no matter how you identify!
Alongside competing last year, we were able to partake in the Christmas lights switch-on in the centre of town as well as our high-kicking showcase shared with BNU Dance and MT Society.
Our socials were unforgettable last year with amazing themes and crossovers with other sports teams and societies. Even if you’re not interested in the sports side of Swans, you can always join us as a social Swan for our sober and slightly less sober socials!
This year, we are planning on doing two competitions against other universities around the UK plus a chance to do a showcase for friends and family. BNU Swans is more than just a sports team as you can also join us to help the community with our amazing volunteering opportunities.
For more information, please message us on Instagram @bnuswanscheersquad or through the contact details on the SU website.
We hope to see you at tryouts!
Netball (Women's)
Elevate your game with Bucks Netball Club
Welcome to Bucks Netball! In 2023-24, our club reached an all-time high by winning Club of the Year at our 2024 Athletic Union Awards Dinner.
As a club, we are incredibly proud of this achievement and are excited to see what we can accomplish together this year. Whether you're a complete beginner or part of a home team, we warmly welcome everyone of all abilities.
Our club features two competitive teams that participate in the BUCS Netball League, playing home and away games every Wednesday. We train on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with Thursday dedicated to ‘Sport for Fun’ - a perfect opportunity to bring your friends along! Beyond the court, join us for our weekly social events every Wednesday evening! Our members love to dress up and enjoy nights out filled with games and laughter, and we're always eager to welcome new members to the party!
We host sober socials, meals, fundraising events, and volunteering opportunities, creating a supportive and engaging environment for everyone! The netball
family are here to help you succeed on and off the court! Our social calendar next year is full with a ton of fun activities and events. Expect our wellliked weekly get-togethers with themed dress-up evenings and entertaining games that bring all of us together. Our dedication to giving back is demonstrated by our fundraising activities and volunteer opportunities, which promote a feeling of belonging and purpose. Come along with us to create lifelong memories with the Buckinghamshire New University Netball Club!
What are you waiting for? Come and join our family!
Rugby (Men's)
The Bucks men’s rugby club looks to carry on our success and achievements from last year and build upon this progress.
The Bucks men’s rugby club looks to carry on our success and achievements from last year and build upon this progress.
We had many members win individual awards such as Most Improved Player, Spirit of Sport, and Fresher of the Year.
Furthermore, as a team, the club had our first year under coaches Kev and Rod and has now built a competitive squad that was showcased at varsity, where the lads only narrowly missed out on the win, drawing 19-19, but put in an incredible shift to show what they’d been building all year.
Off the pitch, we’re an active club, and we take part in lots of volunteering. For example, we take a trip down to the Horse Trust and help out for the day, which is always a good time and a good laugh.
On the social side, we’re very active. Every Wednesday, we have a different theme or activity the team gets involved with, and it’s always a good time when all of us are together and have a laugh and a drink.
We welcome everyone, from lads who’ve never touched a rugby ball in their lives to lads who’ve played since they were kids. Everyone’s welcome in Bucks Men’s Rugby, and we hope to see you freshers in September.
Swimming
New Beginnings for BNU Swim 2024-25
BNU Swim is thrilled to announce our debut in the British Universities Swim League (BUSL) this year!
BUSL offers racing opportunities outside of the BUCS nationals, emphasizing a fun, low-pressure atmosphere where anyone can give racing a go. We’re excited to join this year as it allows everyone in BNU Swim to participate in something new, completely free of charge!
In the past, competing in BUCS limited participation to our top swimmers, meaning only a few had the chance to represent Buckinghamshire New University. While we’ve made our university proud, as seen with our open freestyle relay finalists, we have more to offer. BUSL provides a platform where all our swimmers can showcase their talent and make both BNU and themselves proud.
The competition has in three phases. Phase one features dual meets where we will go head to head with a different university in a mix of 50s, 100s and relay races. Competing in three meets
within this first phase across semester one.
Phase two will see us compete against the same universities from phase one in a larger meet, culminating in an 8x50m mixed relay that unites the entire team. Phase three is the BUSL Final, which this year will be held in Birmingham.
These events are fast-paced and full of energy, and we need your support to keep the momentum going! Even if you’re not a swimmer, you can still be part of the excitement by cheering us on from the stands. Join us and help make this an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
Listen to our Podcasts!
Bucks Student Podcast
Bucks Students' Union represents and support over 9,000 students who study at Buckinghamshire New University. Enrolling on a course at BNU automatically makes you a member of Bucks Students' Union. From our sports clubs to our night time events, day trips and skills workshops, all of our free opportunities are available to every single member no matter how you study.
Home Away From Home
bucks students' union
Home Away From Home is an initiative aimed at discovering and sharing the experiences of BNU students. It seeks to foster a sense of community within BNU, ensuring that we are stronger when we stand together. Our primary goal is to ensure that no student ever feels alone or unsupported while at BNU.
the untitled project
bucks students' union
the untitled project got it's name after the first two hosts couldn't decide on one, so while in the middle of editing a video, the editor saw "untitled project" and thought it was an appropriate name to fit the vibe of this podcast. chill vibes, not too serious, probably a deep dive on the most randomest topics from students and staff at bucks students' union.
Unlock Your Potential: Join the Business and Law Society at BNU!
Who We Are
The Business and Law Society thrives on community and personal development. Our goal is to build a future we want to see, one day at a time. We believe this begins with each individual unlocking their unique gifts and potential and tapping into resources and opportunities for growth.
Our Community
As John Lennon wisely said, “One day at a time is all we do. One day at a time is good for you." We believe reaching transcendence, the journey towards understanding and accepting yourself and your potential, is everlasting. The right trajectory can be catalytic to your progress, influencing where you end up and what you achieve.
Our Year Ahead
This year, we have three key objectives. First, we aim to build our community into a space where like-minded individuals can grow personally and professionally. Second, we want to support communal learning, creating an environment where we belong and can challenge each other. Finally, we plan to partner with The Management Fest, Oxford Innovation,
and the wider BNU community to build an innovation accelerator to support early ventures from ideation to growth.
A Path to Exponential Growth
If you haven’t yet been convinced, know that building this society has been a journey of learning and growth. Our model engages members in various teams, creating opportunities for personal development while giving back to our community.
We can't wait to see you at the Freshers Fair on Tuesday 2 October.
Until then, contact peter.Ashiagbor@ bucks.ac.uk or message us on Instagram @businessandlaw.bnu or LinkedIn at The Business and Law Society.
Welcome to Buckinghamshire New University!
We are so honoured and excited to have you be a part of our university and we hope that your time here is enhanced by the several societies and clubs we have for you! If you are looking for a community of people who love to have real, honest, loving conversations and have fun while doing so, we believe that the Christian Union at BNU is the best place for you!
The Christian Union is a safe space that is available to all students who want to further their relationship with Jesus, are looking for a good community, or are simply inquisitive about the Christian Faith.
We have done this by hosting a Valentine’s dinner event called ‘Lovers’ dinner of where we all got together, ate good food and discussed what love means to us through the lens of Scripture. We have additionally had Games nights, a Prayer and Worship night and went to a Christian Concert in London hosted by Circuit Riders.
Our goals this year is to host a concert at the University, hold events where students can showcase and grow in their creativity and continue to provide a safe and healthy environment for all students.
We strongly believe that as Christians we are called to be shining lights and that it is important for us to shine brightly wherever we are.
Real People, Real Love: Join The Christian Union at BNU!
We look forward to seeing you at the Freshers Fair on Tuesday 2 October! If you would like to get in contact with us, you can find us at bnucu@outlook. com or on Instagram @bnucusociety.
By Daniel Carlton
Welcome to Film Society
We’d like to give you all a warm welcome to Bucks Film Society, starting up this year, from the whole committee. We’re a group of students who have a passion for films, and want to share our interest with others.
Whether you’re really into film, or just looking for a space to socialise with others, Bucks Film Society is welcome to all.
Throughout the year we plan on having a variety of meetups, such as movie nights, quizzes, general discussions about film and cinema trips, so if any of those interest you, we’d love to have you on-board. As previously mentioned, you don’t have to be a die-hard film fan to join, even if you rarely go to the cinema, but enjoy a comfort film every once in a while, we would be delighted to invite you to our society.
We’re busy planning for the year ahead, and we’re also welcome to any suggestions of what you’d like to see within the society.
You can message us on our Instagram @bucksfilmsociety if you have any questions or would like to know anything else, and you can also find us at the freshers fair, if you’d like to know more, sign up, or just want a general chat. We look forward to seeing you!
Islamic Society
The Islamic Society at our university is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for Muslim students and promoting a broader understanding of Islam within the campus community. Our society aims to provide a platform for spiritual growth, cultural exchange, and community engagement through a diverse range of activities.
Spiritual Activities
Prayer Services:
We organize daily congregational prayers and provide facilities for students to perform their obligatory prayers conveniently on campus.
Quran Study Circles:
Regular study sessions are held to read, reflect, and discuss the teachings of the Quran, allowing members to deepen their understanding of Islamic texts.
Islamic Lectures and Workshops:
We invite knowledgeable speakers to conduct lectures and workshops on various Islamic topics, including theology, jurisprudence, and ethics
Our
Bucks Musical Theatre Society: Society of the Year!
society is welcome to all with a passion for musical theatre! We pride ourselves on providing a range of sessions and performance opportunities for our members and we cannot wait to get back into the full swing of things for this year.
In the 2023-24 season, the members of Bucks MT have had the pleasure of taking part in fun sessions, Alumni and Professional masterclasses, various performances, as well as winning the Union Award for Society of the Year and Committee Member of the year 2023-24! The committee can all agree that this year was a whirlwind and we are so proud of our achievements, especially when securing becoming an accredited society with outstanding status yet again!
The brand-new committee for the 202425 season hopes to step up to provide a year just as successful as the 2023-24 season has been for the society, and we hope that you join us on our journey!
We have so much planned for the year ahead including socials and trips, even to West End theatres.
If anybody has questions or would like to contact the committee for any information, our page is available on the Bucks Students’ Union website or you can contact us either via our Instagram page @bucksmtsociety or our society email account bucksmtsociety@ hotmail.com.
Did you know that we keep a record of everything that you get involved with at the Students’ Union? And that everything you get involved with can create incredible transferrable skills to the workplace? That is why we created the Bucks Award!
Designed to give you a record of all your achievements and activities undertaken with the Students’ Union, we can provide printed copies of these to you at your request any time during the year. The Bucks Award is broken down into headings:
Volunteering – the number of hours of volunteering you have delivered including a breakdown of whether this was community, committee, ambassador or other.
Leadership roles – including membership of the Leadership Academy, committee roles, representation roles and others.
Employment – including Freshers helpers, bar and events staff and others.
Skills – including all co-curricular training sessions and workshops undertaken with us.
Member activities – including memberships of clubs and societies, recreational activities and sport for fun sessions.
Awards – including awards both nominated and won for AU dinner and Union Awards.
The Bucks Award can be used as an ongoing reflective tool to identify any areas you feel we can help you develop, maybe you will accrue many volunteering hours in your first year, but would then like to secure a leadership role, or maybe you will attend a number of skills sessions and would like to use those skills working for us!
As employability has been ranked as a top priority for our students, we can also offer Bucks Award sessions to students at any time through the year. These are self-reflective sessions, where we help you understand what skills you have gained through your time with us and how you can effectively articulate these both in applications and interviews when applying for your dream job.
These sessions typically last 1 hour and can be booked around your schedule, either online or in person.
To request your Bucks Award, a Bucks Award session, or for more information on either of these please email us at sutraining@bnu.ac.uk. We hope to see you soon!