Student Academic Rep Handbook 2019/20 Taught Programmes
Home of the Student Voice Cartref Llais Y Myfyrwyr
Contents 3. Introduction from your VP Education, VP Postgraduate Students, and VP Heath Park Campus
12. College Forums
4. Introduction from Amanda Coffey, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience and Academic Standards
15. Speak Week
13. Boards of Study 14. The Feedback Loop
16. Enriching Student Life Awards (ESLAs)
5. Your Students’ Union
17. Developmental Opportunities
6. Your Student Voice Team
18. Student Charter
7. Role of an Academic Rep 8. Role of the Chair and Secretary of the Student Staff Panel 9. Reward & Recognition
20. Signposting 22. Key Dates 24. Jargon Buster! 28. Contact Your Sabbatical Officers
10. Student Staff Panels (SSPs)
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Tomos Evans, Your VP Education “As a Student Rep you have the fantastic opportunity to have a say on how your school operates and be able to represent the academic interests of students. Your role and feedback is invaluable to the operation of the university and can have an impact on the lives of students. Congrats on being a Rep, you are brilliant and the work you do has a huge impact on students so thank you! I can’t wait to work with you this year!”
Nick Fox, Your VP Postgraduate Students “Your job as a Student Rep is vital in championing the student voice to the Students’ Union and the University. As a Students’ Union, we are here to support you and every student to be heard at all levels of the University, so don’t underestimate the positive change that you can achieve throughout this year.”
Shekina Ortom, Your VP Heath Park Campus “Congratulations for putting yourself forward to be a Student Academic Rep. You will be carrying out the crucial role of representing the views of students to the Students’ Union and the University. Your job is essential in ensuring that the student voice is heard and you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the student experience. The Students’ Union offers you all the support you need throughout the academic year as a Student Academic Rep and beyond. You are awesome and I look forward to working with you. Feel free to contact me on Facebook and Twitter or drop me an email.” Student Academic Rep Handbook | 3.
Amanda Coffey, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience and Academic Standards “Cardiff University is really proud of the strong partnership it has with the student body. We have a long tradition of student representation at the University, as one of the ways we work with and for our students. The Academic Representation system means that students from every programme in every school can have a say in how their education and wider student experience can be enhanced. We want our students to have the best experience possible whilst they are at Cardiff University. Student Reps help to make sure that we have a strong steer about things that are working well and things that need to be improved. Being a ‘Rep’ means that you have the opportunity to work alongside and represent your peers, as well as enhance your skills and build your networks. Welcome to the team.”
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Your Students’ Union We Also Champion 4 Values 1. Student Leadership - you are a student leader and are supported by the Students’ Union, we provide training, support and guidance. 2. Inclusion – all Academic Reps are expected to engage with every student they represent.
Cardiff University Students’ Union is recognised as a leading Students’ Union and an integral part of Cardiff University. We aim to be at the heart of the Cardiff student experience by working with every student to enhance their university experience. As a student at Cardiff University, you are automatically a member of the Students’ Union!
Our Purpose »» To promote the interests and welfare of students at Cardiff University during their course of study by representing, supporting and advising students. »» To be the recognised representative channel between students, Cardiff University, and any other external bodies. »» Provide social, cultural, sporting, recreational activities and forums for discussions and debate for the personal development of students.
We Have 4 Strategic Themes 1. The heart of student life 2. Home of the student voice 3. Sector leading facilities and services 4. Engaging our less engaged communities
3. Partnership – the University, Students’ Union and Academic Reps work in partnership to make the experience at Cardiff University the best it can be for students. 4. Diversity – Academic Reps are incredibly diverse and work together to remove barriers to education. We will continue to develop our role representing students’ academic interests at school, college and University level through our strategic plan. We will also work with the University to support and empower students to make their voices heard. The Students’ Union aims to take students’ views to the right place by providing opportunities for students to debate, give ideas, and enact change. The Students’ Union is led by seven Sabbatical Officers voted for by you, the students, so keep your eye out for elections and get involved by either running for an Officer position or voting for your favourite candidates. Your Students’ Union also works closely with the University to ensure you are represented at every level. The Student Voice Team manage the Student Academic Rep structure, and work in partnership with the University to ensure it’s the most effective it can be. You can make a difference to how your Students’ Union is run by voting in at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) that takes place in the Autumn semester. Student Academic Rep Handbook | 5.
Your Student Voice Team Congratulations on becoming a Student Academic Rep! The Students’ Union is the home of the student voice at Cardiff University and we are here to support you and your academic interests. Since 2014 the Student Voice Team at Cardiff University Students’ Union have managed the Student Academic Representation structure. Our team exists to recruit, support and reward academic reps across the University. As a team, we cover a wide range of areas from academic representation, democracy, policy to campaigns. We work in partnership with Cardiff University to advocate the student voice at every level and give students the opportunity to be to co-creators of their university experience. Since October 2018, Student Voice have dedicated Student Voice Coordinators for each of the three colleges at Cardiff University: Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (AHSS), Biomedical and Life Sciences (BLS), and Physical Sciences and Engineering (PSE). This new structure is designed to give you the specialist support, advice, and insight to make the most of your role as a Student Academic Rep. We create the training delivered to you as Rep, and every year we re-visit and revise the training based on your feedback. Throughout the year, you will receive a newsletter from us once a month outlining key information and events that are important to you. Tell us what you’re up to so we can include it in our newsletter or in our Student Wins campaign! We are located on the 3rd floor of the Students’ Union on Park Place, and at the IV Lounge at the Heath Park, so please come and see us any time! We want to hear from you, anything you might need help with, or any great ideas you’ve got. You can pop in, or contact your college Student Voice Coordinator on these contact details:
Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences: studentreps@cardiff.ac.uk
cardiffstudents.com/reps General: @cu_studentvoice Heath Park: @StudentVoice_HP
02920 781 434
Biomedical and Life Sciences: studentreps@cardiff.ac.uk 029 2078 1448 (Cathays) 029 2087 4136 (Heath Park)
Physical Sciences & Engineering: studentreps@cardiff.ac.uk 02920 781 423 6. | Student Academic Rep Handbook
Cardiff Student Voice
Role of a Student Academic Rep Role Objective: To represent the views of students and act as a voice for them on academic and course-related issues, and sharing best practice ideas.
Responsibilities: »» Attend Rep Training »» Attend Student-Staff Panels (SSPs) »» Make yourself known and available to the students you represent »» Collect both positive and constructive feedback from your peers to share back with your school and college »» Signpost students to information on important, useful services provided by the Students’ Union and University »» Feedback to students on the impact the student voice has had and how it’s led to improvements in your school »» Work with your Student Rep Coordinator on campaigns »» Collect feedback through Speak Week »» Promote the Enriching Student Life Awards
Don’t forget to check out Key Dates on page 22!
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Role of the Chair Role Objective: To chair Student Staff Panel meetings and be the key point of contact in your school, for the Student Voice Team, and your Student Rep Coordinator regarding ideas or issues arising amongst your cohort.
Responsibilities: »» Attend Chair Training »» Chair Student Staff Panels »» Work closely with your Student Rep Coordinator (SRC) »» Work in partnership with the Secretary of your SSP
»» Promote professional conduct at Student Staff Panels »» Appoint actions at Student Staff Panels »» Set the date of your SSP, the agenda, and check minutes with Secretary and support from SRC »» Invite relevant staff members to SSPs or work with your SRC to invite others »» Attend College Forums and if you’re a PGT Academic Rep attend Masters’ Forums »» Report back to SSP and wider cohort after respective Forum.
Role of the Secretary Role Objective: To work in partnership with the Chair of the Student Staff Panel, take minutes, assign actions in meetings, and be a key contact in your school for the Student Voice Team and your Student Rep Coordinator.
Responsibilities: »» Attend Secretary Training »» Take minutes in SSPs »» Appoint actions at SSPs »» Keep SSPs to time »» Work closely with your Student Rep Coordinator (SRC) »» Work in partnership with the Chair of your SSP
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»» Promote professional conduct at SSPs »» Set the date of your SSP, the agenda and check minutes with Chair and support from SRC »» Invite relevant staff members to SSPs or work with your SRC to invite others »» Attend College Forums and if you’re PGT attend Masters’ Forums if the Chair cannot attend. »» Ensure a recurring agenda item gives the opportunity to feedback from College Forums.
Reward and Recognition Taking up the role of a Student Academic Rep will not only help shape the University experience for all students but also benefit your CV and personal development by providing you with recognised employability skills. There are three different levels of accreditation for being a Student Academic Rep:
Bronze Certificate » Attend a training session or arrange a catch-up with a member of Student Voice Team » Attend minimum 2 of your Student Staff Panel meetings » Complete the end of year Academic Rep feedback survey Skills developed: Communication, presentation skills and reflection
Silver Certificate » All of Bronze level completed » Attend AGM » Volunteer during Speak Week » Attend Autumn or Spring Academic Rep Conference » Submit an ESLA nomination Skills developed: Decision making, professionalism, and problem solving
Gold Certificate » All of Bronze and Silver level completed » Proof of engagement with a minimum of two developmental opportunities (see p. 13) » Proof of engagement with course based society (if you have one) » Receive an ESLA nomination from your peers or a member of staff Skills developed: Leadership, teamwork, public speaking, and personal development You can further develop all of these skills by attending sessions run by the Skills Development Service on the 2nd floor of the Students’ Union, Park Place. You have access to a range of internally and externally certified courses and diplomas to choose from including; presentation skills, negotiation, team briefings and more. Contact the Skills Development Team at SDS@cardiff.ac.uk You can also log all of your Rep volunteering hours with Cardiff Volunteering for a volunteering award. Head to their offices on the 2nd floor of the Students’ Union or contact them at Volunteering@Cardiff.ac.uk Student Academic Rep Handbook | 9.
Student Staff Panels Student Staff Panels (SSPs) are the key meetings attended by Student Academic Reps and staff within your School. The purpose of these meetings is to talk about ideas and areas for improvement on your course and general educational experience. You are expected to attend these meetings with feedback from your cohort. Two reps (Chair and Secretary) will be responsible for chairing the meeting and taking minutes.
What can I expect from a Student Staff Panel? An agenda and minutes from the previous meeting will be circulated before the SSP. Make sure you are prepared for the agenda items. In subsequent meetings it is important that you look out for action points, you might be asked to do something by the Chair or Secretary for the next SSP.
Who will be there? Student membership: »» Elected Chair and Secretary »» Academic representatives »» Committee member from relevant academic society (where applicable) Staff membership: »» Student Rep Coordinator »» Director of Learning & Teaching »» Nominated module leaders »» A subject librarian »» Education and Students’ Manager or equivalent
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It is worth noting that if there is a specific issue you would like to address at the meeting, it is important to inform the Chair or Student Rep Coordinator beforehand to invite the relevant members of staff. A member of staff from IT and a subject librarian may often attend.
How often are SSPs? Your SSP will meet at least 3 times per year. As a requirement of your role, you should attend all meetings or send apologies and feedback via the Chair of the SSP if you cannot. Some schools have more than 3 SSPs in the year, maintaining attendance throughout the year is essential in order to follow up on actions.
Got an idea or issue before your SSP? Some issues can’t wait until a Student Staff Panel. If there is a pressing issue it is worthwhile raising it with a member of staff before the meeting. If you need support in doing so, please contact StudentReps@Cardiff.ac.uk.
Here are some experiences from different Student Staff Panels across the University: Rachel Beaney PGR Rep, MLANG, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
“
Student Staff Panels provide a formal channel for PGR Reps and PGR students to meet with the Directors of PGR and PGR Administrator to discuss issues related to their educational experience. They also provide an opportunity for the School to consult with students and receive feedback on new proposals. As reps, we organise 2 meetings per year in MLANG. We send out calendar invites so that everyone is aware of the meetings. We ask for feedback beforehand and also provide a general feedback discussion point in the meetings. We offer the chance to Skype in for distance-learners. One rep chairs while the other takes minutes. We invite the administrator and Deans of Postgraduate Studies to join halfway through for the second hour. This is so we can discuss how to present points to them. The meetings are usually a productive discussion and a chance for us all to come together. We circulate the minutes a few weeks after. Reps and Directors of Postgraduate Studies use these to follow up on actions.”
Nick Albert UG Rep, HCARE, College of Biomedical & Lifesciences
“
Through SSPs we have worked together with programme leaders to make positive changes to students’ day-to-day experiences. Chairing the SSPs is great for building communication skills, confidence and understanding more about your course and the University.”
Rhiannon Lunney PGR Rep, PHYSX, College of Physical Sciences and Engineering
“
PGT and PGR reps attend the PG SSP to discuss matters that relate solely to PG students. There is at least one rep from each of the PGT programmes and a PGR rep from each of the broader research themes to ensure all students are represented. The PG SSP is also attended by the Directors of PGR and PGT, the MSc coordinators, Library Services and a number of Professional Services staff, who cover roles such as Education Support Officer, Disabilities Contact and Student Services Administrator. There are usually 5 SSPs over the year, including through summer. Any aspect of life in PHYSX is open for discussion, from office space to training needs, teaching hours to access to resources. You aren’t expected to attend all the meetings, but it’s really helpful to have feedback Student Academic Rep Handbook | 11. passed on, even if you can’t attend.”
College Forums If there are issues that have arisen in SSPs that cannot be solved within the school, these can be brought to the College Forum. For example, issues regarding IT or printers, libraries, and catering. The College Forum is a great way to meet other Reps within your College and to network with senior staff in the University. The VP Education, Heath Park Campus or Postgraduate Students chairs College Forums. All Chairs of SSPs within the College are invited, as well as senior University college staff. If the Chair cannot attend, the Secretary or another Student Rep should attend in their place. Below is a list of the schools within each college, and the membership of the College Forums.
College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences (AHSS):
College of Biomedical & Life Sciences (BLS):
College of Physical Sciences & Engineering (PSE):
»» Cardiff Business School (CARBS) »» English, Communication and Philosophy (ENCAP) »» Geography and Planning (GEOPL) »» History, Archaeology, and Religion (SHARE) »» Journalism, Media, and Cultural Studies (JOMEC) »» Law and Politics (LAWPL) »» Modern Languages (MLANG) »» Music (MUSIC) »» Social Sciences (SOCSI) »» Welsh (WELSH)
»» Biosciences (BIOSI) »» Dentistry (DENTL) »» Healthcare Sciences (HCARE) »» Medicine (MEDIC) »» Optometry and Vision Sciences (OPTOM) »» Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (PHRMY) »» Psychology (PSYCH)
»» Architecture (ARCHI) »» Chemistry (CHEMY) »» Computer Science & Informatics (COMSC) »» Earth and Ocean Sciences (EARTH) »» Engineering (ENGIN) »» Mathematics (MATHS) »» Physics & Astronomy (PHYSX)
Membership of the College Forums include: Chairs of Student Staff Panels from each school within the College
Pro Vice-Chancellor of Student Experience and Academic Standards
Vice President Education Vice President Heath Park (BLS College Forum only)
College Deans (Undergraduate & Postgraduate)
Vice President Postgraduate Students
Student Engagement Team
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College Education Manger
Library Representative IT Representative Catering Representative Learning Technologist Student Advice Representative
Boards of Study Boards of Studies are formal meetings held by your School to ‘ensure the coordination of all academic and administrative matters associated with taught programmes of study.’ Both the Chair and the Secretary of the SSP are invited to attend the Boards of Studies to provide student representation and an overview of the most recent SSP. These meetings discuss: admissions criteria, methods of assessment, content and curriculum and much more. These are managed by the University and led by the senior staff in your school.
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The Feedback Loop The ‘feedback loop’ is the process in which you ensure the person who provided feedback is aware of any actions or outcomes based on this. Using the following headings, draw your own vision of the feedback loop. You can add in extra stakeholders or stages if you would like to!
Student Academic Reps Student Staff Panel
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Students Boards of Study
College Forum
Speak Week You can find the most recent Speak Week report here: cardiffstudents.com/yourvoice/speak-week »» Two 24/7 libraries on campus (opening times including Christmas & Easter recesses) »» University-wide lecture capture policy »» Exam timetables are published two weeks earlier »» Increase in number of borrowed books in libraries from 15 to 35 »» Annual partnership groups between the University and Students’ Union.
Did you know? Student Voice can provide you with all the free-text comments from Speak Week for your school so you can action these as part of your Student Staff Panel! Email StudentReps@Cardiff.ac.uk for more information.
These are just some of the amazing achievements that have come from the feedback from Students’ Union’s Speak Week campaign. The Students’ Union has worked in partnership with the University to make these changes. Speak Week takes place on the first week of February every year, and the purpose of the campaign is to gather feedback on Speak Week cards from students. Your feedback from this campaign forms the backbone of the Student Written Submission, a report submitted to the University to make recommendations to the University on ways to improve the student experience. In 2019, we had another record-breaking year and collected 3,813 cards equating to 7,535 free-text comments. The campaign was a huge success due to the help of our Academic Reps, school staff and other volunteers! Speak Week is a great opportunity for you to engage with other students and find out what changes they want to see! We will contact you nearer the time about volunteering and running a Speak Week event in your school. Student Academic Rep Handbook | 15.
The Enriching Student Life Awards (ESLAs) Every year, the Students’ Union hosts the Enriching Student Life Awards. The Enriching Student Life Awards (ESLAs) are a celebration of students and staff in the University and Students’ Union. As a Student Academic Rep, you can be nominated and win for all your hard work! There are categories specifically reserved for Academic Reps, your amazing Student Rep Coordinators, and other awards including Leaders in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion and Most Uplifting Staff Member. It’s the opportunity to recognise staff and students who have enhanced your student life! Nominations will open in the Autumn Semester, and if your nominee is shortlisted then you can attend the black tie awards evening to support them! Here’s what your Student Academic Reps of the year for 2018/19 had to say about being a rep and winning an ESLA:
Chloe Ryce
Final Year BSc Psychology & Chair of the PSYCH Student Staff Panel:
“
The decision to become a Student Rep was one of the best I made throughout the duration of my degree. The role helped me gain confidence and leadership skills that I never knew I had! This development enabled me to gain a place on my dream graduate scheme and complete a professional leadership diploma through the SU. Alongside improving my employability, being a Student Rep allowed me to have an impact on my school and gain an understanding of the hard work that goes into optimising the student experience. One of my biggest achievements as Student Rep, which helped me to win an ESLA, was organising a social and training event for all Psychology Reps. This experience was incredibly enjoyable because (as well as involving lots of pizza) it resulted in many good friendships being built amongst the Reps. Furthermore, I received a great amount of support and creative input from Student Voice in organising this event - you are never without advice or help as a Rep! If you’re looking to make new friends and develop in many areas - becoming a Student Rep is the perfect challenge for you!”
Rhiannon Lunney Year 1 PHYSX Postgraduate Researcher & Chair of PG PHYSX Student Staff Panel:
“
I’m totally shocked and honoured to have received this year’s ESLA for PSE Rep of the year, never mind overall Rep of the year! I joined Cardiff University in October 2018 and chose to become an Academic Rep, having never been one at my previous university. I’m passionate about supporting Equality, Diversity & Inclusivity in any way I can and becoming a student rep has given me a means of affecting change on a school, college and university scale. It has provided me with the support and contacts that I could never have hoped to have without being a Rep, as well as meeting people outside of my department – surprisingly difficult as a PGR! Getting involved with everything from PGRR forums to surveying my peers for an in-school project has been hugely rewarding in itself; the award just tops it off’. 16. | Student Academic Rep Handbook
Developmental Opportunities Being an Academic Rep gives you many opportunities for your development as a Rep, and your own personal development. We will advertise relevant developmental opportunities throughout the year through our monthly rep newsletters. These are some of the developmental opportunities available for you: »» Rep Reward & Recognition Tiering system – become the best rep you can be by working towards bronze, silver, and gold awards. »» Skills Development Service – as a student leader, you can work towards a leadership diploma with the Skills Development Service. Use your voluntary time as a rep, take part in some leadership modules and you can get a recognised leadership diploma! »» Sabbatical Officer executive committees – be part of the Vice President Education, Heath Park or Postgraduate executive committees and work with them to campaign on relevant issues and ideas.
the past have included enhancing student assessment and feedback literacy, improving the postgraduate experience, and enhancing the personal tutor system. »» Pioneer a school project – reps in previous years have led their own team building sessions, socials, and worked on a project based on student feedback in their school. You could pioneer a great idea you have too! Pop in and see Student Voice and the Sabbatical Officers for any help, advice, or just to tell us how it went!
»» Autumn Rep Conference – network with other reps from across the University and develop new skills to support you in your role and personal development. »» Partnership Projects – working groups set up between the University and Students’ Union based on feedback from the student body. Work with a team of University and Students’ Union staff to enhance the student experience. Projects in
Rep Conference
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The Student Charter The Student Charter defines the roles and responsibilities of students, the Students’ Union and the University. The Charter informs you of what you can expect from the University and the Students’ Union and what is expected of you. As a Student Academic Rep, it’s important you know these expectations and what students can do if the University does not meet your expectations. The Student Charter is not aspirational; you can expect all of the services outlined in the Student Charter. Don’t forget, there are expectations of you too. You should always seek to: »» Raise issues at an early stage and seek advice if these are not resolved »» Inform the University promptly of any changes to your circumstances »» Raise your concerns if your Cardiff experience is adversely affected by the behaviour of fellow students or staff »» Seek advice immediately if your academic progress, or any other aspect of your Cardiff experience, gives you cause for concern.
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Student Wins ‘Following feedback from the students in our school, we requested a reading week during the Autumn semester and are pleased to announce that this will go into effect during the 2019/20 academic year.’ - Law Student-Staff Panel Representatives
Signposting As an Academic Rep it is important to be aware of the different services across the University and Students’ Union so you can signpost students to the appropriate contacts should they approach you with an issue that falls outside of collecting and reporting feedback. In your role as an Academic Rep, you are NOT expected to deal with: »» Disputes between students and academic staff (e.g. harassment, discrimination) »» Formal procedures, (e.g. exam failures, academic appeals, fitness to practice, extenuating circumstance) »» Financial, funding, money queries »» Welfare problems, health and personal issues (e.g. housing, employment and immigration.) If a student approaches you with a problem, and you are unsure where they should be signposted, please contact studentreps@cardiff.ac.uk. Below are some of the key services and people to be aware of:
Students’ Union Services Student Advice The Student Advice Centre provides advice, information, advocacy, representation and support through a free, confidential, impartial, and independent service to the members of the Students’ Union. You can drop in; visit the 3rd Floor of the Students’ Union to speak to a Student Advisor, book an appointment, e-mail or phone the team. If you are approached by students with any of these issues, please direct them to Student Advice: 20. | Student Academic Rep Handbook
»» Academic Issues –appeals, advice on student conduct, changes to your course/terms and conditions, extenuating circumstances, revising through Ramadan, Revision Aid, Unfair Practice, Fitness to Practice. »» Health and Wellbeing – mental health, sexual health »» Housing – checking housing contracts, disputes with landlords, housing lists etc. Need Advice? »» Cathays Campus: Term time drop in sessions are Monday to Friday 11:00 13:00 and 14:00-16:00 »» Bookable appointments available between 09:30 – 17:00 »» Heath Campus: Term time drop in sessions are Monday to Friday 12:00 14:00. Contact Student Advice to book an appointment. To make an appointment please call 029 2078 1410, email or fill in the query form online: cardiffstudents.com/advice Advice@Cardiff.ac.uk
Skills Development Service If you or a fellow student are interested in improving or developing any skills during your time at university, a great place to direct them to is the Skills Development Service (SDS) that is on the 2nd floor of the Students’ Union. They provide a range of training courses and sessions designed to build confidence, improve transferable skills and increase employability to learners interested in preparing for their future after graduation with the added bonus of gaining certification. Most of the courses are free and a great way of meeting new people, and networking in a fun and informal environment.
Jobshop
Counselling, Health and Wellbeing
Jobshop is a free student employment service that aims to find casual employment for registered Cardiff University students. Opportunities are available within the Students’ Union, the University and local employers. They are based on the 2nd floor of the Students’ Union building on Park Place, and at the IV Lounge at the Heath Park.
Practical advice and support for good health and wellbeing and offers face to face and online appointments, drop-in service, workshops, self-help resources and an occupational health service. Based in 50 Park Place.
Jobshop@cardiff.ac.uk
Bookable Appointments available at Heath Park. wellbeingandcounselling@cardiff.ac.uk
Cardiff University Services
Disability and Dyslexia Service
Student Support & Wellbeing
Advice and guidance to disabled students, specialist support services and facilitates accessibility and adjustments including examination provision. Based in 50 Park Place, Drop in and bookable appointments available.
The Student Support Centres have a range of services dedicated to helping students; appointments and drop-in times for all services can be accessed by calling or emailing Student Support. studentsupport@cardiff.ac.uk 029 2087 4844
Advice and Money Guidance on academic issues, funding advice, money skills & emergency funds and Bursaries & Scholarships. Based on the 3rd floor of the Students’ Union on Park Place, drop in service and bookable appointments available. Drop In service available Mon-Thurs at Cardigan House, Heath Park. Adviceandmoney@cardiff.ac.uk
Careers and Employability Careers advice, guidance & information, work experience opportunities, employability skills development, access to student & graduate recruitment opportunities & events and Enterprise & Business start-up support. Located in 51a Park Place. Appointments can be made over the phone or by booking online through Careers Account. Only available in Park Place Centre.
Bookable appointments only available Thurs & Fridays at Heath Park. Disability@cardiff.ac.uk
International Student Support Practical support for international students and offers immigration advice & assistance with visa extensions, guidance on employment regulations, financial advice and information on daily life in the UK. Based on the 3rd floor in the Students’ Union. Only available in the Students’ Union, Park Place ISS@cardiff.ac.uk
Contact number for all services +44 (0)29 2251 8888 weekdays between 9:00 - 16:30 (excluding Public/Bank holidays) - Press the numerical option relating to the service required.
Careers@cardiff.ac.uk Student Academic Rep Handbook | 21.
Key Dates: Autumn Semester
Spring Semester
INDUCTION TALKS:
MASTERS’ FORUM 1: Thursday 31st
Monday 2nd September – Friday 4th October
REP ELECTIONS:
Monday 23rd September – Sunday 20th October
REP TRAINING:
Monday 30th September – Friday 15th November
CHAIR & SECRETARY TRAINING: Monday 14th October – Friday 8th November
REP CONFERENCE:
Saturday 2nd November
STUDENTS’ UNION AUTUMN ELECTIONS:
Monday 4th – Thursday 7th November
ARTS, HUMANITIES, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES COLLEGE FORUM 1: Wednesday 20th November from 1pm
BIOMEDICAL AND LIFE SCIENCES COLLEGE FORUM 1: Wednesday 13th November from 2pm
PHYSICAL SCIENCES AND ENGINEERING COLLEGE FORUM 1: Wednesday 20th November from 3pm
January from 2pm
SPEAK WEEK:
Monday 3rd – Friday 7th February
ARTS, HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES COLLEGE FORUM 2: Thursday 13th February from 3pm
BIOMEDICAL & LIFESCIENCES COLLEGE FORUM 2: Wednesday 12th February from 2pm
PHYSICAL SCIENCES & COLLEGE FORUM 2: Tuesday 11th February from 3pm
STUDENTS’ UNION SPRING ELECTIONS (including Rep Elections
for 2019/20 academic year and March 2019 intake of Nursing students): Monday 2nd – Friday 6th March
ARTS, HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES COLLEGE FORUM 3:
Thursday 26th March from 3pm
BIOMEDICAL & LIFESCIENCES COLLEGE FORUM 3: Wednesday 25th March from 3pm
PHYSICAL SCIENCES & COLLEGE FORUM 3: Wednesday 25th March from 1pm
STUDENTS’ UNION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING:
SSP MINUTES (Spring Semester):
SSP MINUTES DEADLINE:
June from 2pm
Thursday 21st November Friday 6th December
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Friday 27th March
MASTERS’ FORUM 2: Thursday 4th
S
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DEBATE & DETE R THE DIRECTION MINE OF STUDENTS’ UN THE ION
18:00 THURSDAY 21ST NOVEMBER THE GREAT HALL, 1ST FLOOR
Jargon Buster! Boards of Study Formal meetings bringing together the Head of School with appropriate staff members to discuss administrative and academic issues relating to taught programmes delivered within the School.
Campaign Officers A group of 10 students who are elected each year to represent liberated groups. These are voluntary, part-time positions taken on alongside the Officers’ studies. The positions include: Black & Ethnic Minorities Officer, Welsh Language Officer, Mental Health Officer, Ethical & Environmental Officer, Students with Disabilities’ Officer, LGBT+ Officer (Open), LGBT+ Officer (Women’s), Women’s Officer, International Students’ Officer and Mature Students’ Officer.
Cardiff University Students’ Union (CUSU) An organisation independent from the University that represents the views of Cardiff University students. The Union offers representation services, extra-curricular activities, nights out, day trips and part-time employment. As a student at Cardiff University, you are automatically a member and can use any of the services provided.
College Forums Meetings organised by the Students’ Union that are attended by Student Staff Panel Chairs from undergraduate, University and Students’ Union representatives to talk about college wide concerns that cannot be resolved at a school level or need to be brought to attention of the college.
Masters’ Forum Meetings chaired by the Vice President Postgraduate Students that can be attended by any Postgraduate Taught student representative to discuss a wide range of issues. The Deans of Postgraduate Studies are invited to attend these meetings to address College or University wide issues.
Partnership projects These are projects based on feedback from the Students’ Union’s Student Written Submission. These are undertaken for a year in partnership between the University and Students’ Union. The 2018-19 academic year projects were: ‘International Student Journey’, ‘Supporting Student Assessment and Feedback Literacy’, ‘Enhancing the Personal Tutor System’, A ‘ cademic Support for Learning’, and ‘Communicating Effectively with Students’.
Periodic Review (PR) A broad analysis of academic schools that takes place on a five-year cycle to ensure the school is meeting the expectations laid out in the QAA Quality Code. 24. | Student Academic Rep Handbook
Postgraduate Research Rep (PGRR) A volunteer Postgraduate Researcher who represents the views, questions and comments of their cohort.
Postgraduate Research Representative Forums Meetings chaired by the Vice President Postgraduate Students, open to all PGR Student Representatives across the University, where School, College or University level issues can be discussed.
Sabbatical Officers A group of seven students who are elected each year to represent the views of Cardiff students. These positions are paid and are divided into seven separate areas: Students’ Union President and Vice Presidents for Education, Welfare & Campaigns, Postgraduate Students, Heath Park Campus, Societies & Volunteering and Sports & AU President.
Student Academic Rep (SAR) A volunteer student who represents the views, questions, and comments of their cohort. Student Academic Reps can also be known as ‘SARs’, A ‘ cademic Reps’, ‘Student Reps’, ‘Reps’, or ‘Postgraduate Research Reps’ if they are part of the PGR community.
Student Advice Independent advice service based in the Students’ Union, available to all Cardiff University students. They provide guidance on academic issues, consumer complaints, housing and more.
Student Rep Coordinator A member of staff from your school who facilitates the recruitment and induction of student reps, provides administrative support to meetings and works closely with the Students’ Union to ensure effective representation and opportunities for students.
Student Support University run service based in 50 Park Place, the Students’ Union, Heath Park and offers hardship funds, general advice, international support and counselling services.
Student Staff Panel (SSP) Meetings that bring together Student Academic Reps and School staff to discuss issues affecting the student population at a local level. You are expected to attend these meetings in your role.
Student Voice Team The team that provides your training, support and provides advice specific to your role. You can contact the team if you have any suggestions with the Student Academic Rep structure. Got more questions? Visit our FAQs on our website here: cardiffstudents.com/your-voice or contact StudentReps@Cardiff.ac.uk
Student Academic Rep Handbook | 25.
WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR AMAZING IDEAS ON WHAT THE STUDENTS’ UNION SHOULD BE DOING! STUDENT SENATE
SUBMIT YOUR IDEAS AT
STUDENTS OF CARDIFF, YOUR UNION NEEDS YOU! You are the driver for everything that we do, and we want to ensure that you always have a voice. That’s why we’re asking you to get in touch with us. To represent other students and make a difference by engaging in open dialogue with key stakeholders, get involved in the 2020 Quality Enhancement Review. Getting involved in the review will not only benefit the University and wider student body, but it will also benefit you and your CV! For more information, email: studentreps@cardiff.ac.uk
Contact Your Sabbatical Officers! Tomos VP Education VPEducation@Cardiff.ac.uk EducationCSU @EducationCSU
Nick VP Postgraduate Students VPPostgraduate@Cardiff.ac.uk PGradOfficerCSU @PostgradCSU
Shekina VP Heath Park Campus VPHeathPark@Cardiff.ac.uk VPHeathParkCSU @HeathParkCSU