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Guide
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Welcome to the
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It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to the Students’ Union and the annual edition of the Union Guide. Within these pages is everything we thought you might like to know about your Union and all the opportunities we have on offer for you. So you may be thinking “what is a Students’ Union?” Well your Union is here to ensure you have the best experience possible whilst at University and we do this in several ways. We offer a range of activities; sports, societies, media, volunteering and fundraising. We represent you as students by listening to your views and taking it forward either as sabbaticals (p.6), part-time officers(p.8) or course representatives (p.47) in order to promote, extend and defend your rights as students. I hope you find this guide useful and it inspires you to get involved with some aspect of the Students’ Union, as ultimately we exist for you as students. I look forward to seeing you throughout the year and make sure you attend Freshtival the biggest two weeks in the calendar incorporating the UK’s best Freshers Fayre. Have a great year and enjoy everything you do.
Amy Baker - UPSU President
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The Sabbatical Team
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As the Students’ Union exists for students it is run by student representatives. These student representatives come in the form of five elected Sabbatical Officers, and are usually students who have just graduated (but you can always take a year out of study to be one). Sabbatical Officers spend a year at the Union and are paid to be responsible for a particular area of the Union. The five areas of responsibility are President, VP Education and Democracy, VP Welfare and Community, VP Sport and VP Activities. Sabbatical Officers ensure that Union activities are continually being developed in order to allow more opportunities for you as students. The VP’s also feed in to the political leadership of the Union which is disseminated from the President and all are representatives of the student voice; this means sabbaticals speak on behalf of students in University and External meetings to guarantee students are always being heard. In order to make sure sabbaticals hear what you have to say, check out the democracy section (p.10) which gives a low down on all the ways you can contribute.
To make sure the right person is representing you in these positions, each year the Union holds an annual election. This is one of the biggest events of the year with all candidates bombarding the campus with posters, flyers, banners, freebies and crazy costumes in order to speak to you as students and let you know what they want to achieve for you. You then get to vote on the individuals you would like to see running the Union and representing you the following year. To find out more and how to get involved see page 10. Your sabbaticals will be out and about all year so make sure you say hi or just pop in to the Union and have a chat. To find out more about what they have been up to over the summer and to find out where they will be over the next few weeks check out
www.upsu.net/sabbaticals
AMY BAKER
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PRESIDENT
Hi I am Amy, President of Portsmouth Students’ Union. I am responsible for all Union activities so come and talk to me about this or political leadership, the Union’s strategic direction, Union publications and communication.
DAN BLACK VP SPORTS
Hi, I’m the guy to talk to about sports, whether it be competitive or recreational, from Lacrosse to Dance we have it all, I’m here to help you get the most out of sports!
GODFREY ATUAHENE
VP EDUCATION AND DEMOCRACY
Hi I’m Godfrey from Portsmouth Students’ Union! Talk to me about: Course Reps, Academic Issues and the Democratic structures within the union.
MILLY YOUNGMAN VP ACTIVITIES
Hi, I’m Milly from Portsmouth Student’s Union. Talk to me about running your society, student media, raising and giving and how you can get the best out of your time here at the Union!
STEVE ROBERTS
VP WELFARE AND COMMUNITY
Hi I’m Steve from the Students’ Union! Talk to me about any of our welfare campaigns, volunteering opportunities and getting involved in the community.
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Part-timeOfficers
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Part-time officers are students who are elected in to these voluntary positions to represent groups of students or issues within the Union. Each part-time officer is responsible for a certain area to represent; Black, Disabled, International, EU, Women, Mature, LGBT, Post graduate, Part time students and also Ethics and Environment. PTO’s are a point of contact for students with issues or concerns either within the Union, University or wider community and they take these to Student Council (p.10) to discuss with Sabbaticals and the student body in order to resolve these issues. PTO’s are also there to ensure your welfare during their year in office and so run campaigns about issues that could affect you. All your PTO’s have office hours so you can pop in to talk about issues or campaigns that you would like to see happen. To become a PTO all of our students nominated themselves for a position but then had to run in an election just like the Sabbatical officers where all students can vote on who they would like to see in this position. To find out more about your PTO’s, the work they are doing and their surgery hours in the office, have a look at:
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www.upsu.net/pto
Mature Students Officer
Ethics and Environment Officer
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Hi, I’m Sam, your Ethics and Environment officer and I will be helping lead lots of campaigns that you (hopefully) will want to get involved in. As an activist in the local area, I am keen to get as many students as possible involved in trying to influence and change things, this role gives me the opportunity to try and do this. You can come talk to me about getting involved in campaigns and events I would like to run, or any you would like to start yourself. Also come talk to me about student council and the union or about getting involved in any campaigns/groups in Portsmouth. My role is to help you get things moving and to lend a hand when you need it.
Women’s Officer
I am Becky, a third year Childhood & Youth Studies student and this year’s Women’s Officer. I have been elected by students to represent women around the university and to run campaigns to raise awareness of the issues facing female students. This year I hope to set up a Women’s Forum which will give female students the opportunity to play an active role in learning and campaigning about the issues facing women, so look out for our meetings and come and get involved! Please feel free to talk to me about any of the concerns you have about how women are represented at our university, if you need any further advice, support or information about women’s issues.
Mature Student’s Officer
Hello, my name is Anita Carey and I am the Mature Students Officer for this year. Before becoming a full-time student at the University of Portsmouth I worked in administration, project management, organising events and several years supporting people with personal challenges. However, about three years ago I took the plunge and decided to change my career direction and study for a degree in Environmental Science. I am now about to start the second year of my degree and very much looking forward to it too! Last year as a mature student I often felt isolated from the main throng of activities and general student life. When talking to other mature students (those rare occasions when I actually met them!) I found that they also felt the same. With two undergraduate years left at university I decided that I needed to do something about the situation, try to bring mature students together and act as a voice for them to the university. So, here I am, the Mature Student Officer for 2011 – 2012!!
LGBT Officer
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Hi guys, I’m Sabrina a 2nd year studying Computer Science. I wanted to become a Part-time Officer to bridge the gaps between the people that don’t know where to go or who to speak to about issues that affect them and their friends by guiding them to the people that can help. I found that many LGBTers limit themselves by staying in their comfort zone (including me!), I personally felt a bit intimidated when approaching other societies that I wanted to join which the union had to offer. So if you find yourself in this situation then come and speak to me or if you have any other issues I am here to listen and help.
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Democracy We have already said that the Union is democratic but what does that actually mean?? Basically it means that the students (you!) get to decide what we do and how we do it....simple. To make sure this happens we have various positions and structures to make sure the students are at the heart of what we do and lead the Union......
Sabbatical officers: There are 5 sabbatical officers who are elected (in a massive cross campus ballot ) into these Paid positions every year to run the Union on behalf of the students. They act as trustees of the Union and sit on loads of University Committees so the Union has the power to influence some of the big decisions the University makes. They have usually just graduated or take a year out of their studies( sabbatical!!) to do the job. Elections: Happen every year (usually
in March) to elect the students who will lead the Union as Sabbatical officers and part time officers for the coming year. Any student can stand in the election and campaign for either a paid sabbatical position or a voluntary part time officer position for a year. Every student has the opportunity to vote for who they think is the best to represent their interest in the coming year and there are loads of polling stations all across the campus. Check out the website for the dates when nominations open and when voting begins....www.upsu.net/elections
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General meetings: open to all stu-
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dents to attend and focus on just 1 topic for discussion. Everyone who attends gets to vote on the issue and really get involved in what the Union does.
Part Time Officers: are students who are elected into these voluntary positions to represent groups of student or issues within the union while they are still studying at the University. There are 10 positions available representing: Black, Disabled. International, EU, Women, Mature, Post graduate, LGBT, Part time students and also Ethics and Environment. Together with the 5 sabbatical officers they form the Officer Executive. Student Council: the big meeting where decisions are made! Student council meets monthly and any student can attend or propose a motion which is voted on by members of the council. There is no limit to the number of motions ( or issues) to be discussed and voted on in the meetings! Voting members are: the 10 part time officers, 5 faculty reps ( course rep exec) the chair of all the executive committees and the audience have 1 combined vote too. It’s chaired by a student who is elected and is your chance to have your say in the bigger decisions and also to make sure that the sabbatical officers are doing what the students want them to during the year.
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Executive Committees: These
are the smaller decision making groups (or standing committees) and there is one for every area of activity within the Union. They usually meet monthly and are vitally important in making decisions in their area of activity but also represent the activities at student council. Everyone on the committee is elected by the students!
3 Open Forums: These are 3 new forums which focus on different aspects of the Union. Better University is about academic and learning issues, Better Union about Activities in the Union and Better you about welfare and the personal development of students. Any student can attend and get involved in the discussions and decision making. Each forum gets ÂŁ1,000 worth of campaigning money to spend how they wish for example run a Olympics sports days
How do I get involved?
if you would like to sit on student council, find out more information on getting involved and changing your union or find out the dates of the forums, student council and execs email:
democracy@upsu.net
Student Council
Course Rep Executive
AU Executive Media Executive
Better University
Societies Executive Fundraising Executive
Better Union
Volunteer Executive
Better You
General Meetings
Part Time Officers
22,000 (ish) Students
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How the Union Works governance
So we now know the role of Sabbatical Officers and PTO ’s in the Union. But there is one thing that we haven’t touched on yet and tha t is governance. Basically governa nce means overseeing decision ma king, scrutinising activities and services and ensuring that the Union is workin g within both the law and its aims an d objectives. In order for this all to ha ppen the Union has a Board of Truste es that oversees all democratic and ma nagement functions.
This Board is made up of:l Officers – not only are sabbs responsible for their
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5 Sabbatica • stable and delivering on sure the Union is financially ke ma also y the it rem ual individ sure the its aims and objectives. trustees do this job to make 3 Student Trustees – student king ma • n isio dec all ugh best interests of students thro ns. isio dec Union is looking out for the al ent dam fun of s are at the heart and ensures that the student University every four years trustee – nominated by the ity ers Univ 1 • e ctiv on decision making. as to the University perspe to bring to be able to give advice ry d eve four years in order 3 external trustees – selecte d. • rme info isions are to the board so that all dec specific skills and knowledge
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The Board meets five times a year and approves all major Union developments as well as mapping out the strategy and future plans for the organisation. If you want to know more about what the Board does and to see the papers for these meetings then log onto www. upsu.net/governance You may be wondering how student trustees get appointed? Well all of our trustees have to fill in an application form just like any other job. These are then looked through and interviews take place. If this sounds scary it really isn’t that bad,
it only takes about 15 minutes. After this our trustees are offered positions but they are not full trustees until the Board and Student Council has approved the decision. Currently we only have two student trustees and we would love a third. So if you think that you would like to make decisions on how the Union is run and see what our money is spent on and our aims for the future then pop on to the above web address. Applications open for this position on the 21st September and will close on the 7th October.
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: n la P ic g e t a r t S r u O
Our Vision
A positive impact with every Portsmouth student
s e u l a V r u O
Themes Stakeholders
To ensure that the Union consults interested parties on how it performs and puts structures in place to ensure that stakeholders are used to help design service delivery
Innovation and growth
To vastly increase student involvement in the local community
Finance and resources
To outline our development priorities and demonstrate how we will ensure value for money and sustainability
Quality
The aim of this theme is to focus on quality management to ensure success and how the union will be transparent about its performance and it will measure itself against rigorous external quality standards
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To outline our development priorities and demonstrate how we’ll ensure development by involving our staff, volunteers and ordinary students
Community
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Union
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G IVE IT A GO!
Give it a Go is a programme of events, trips and activities for you to try out whilst you are at Portsmouth. Give it a Go is a ‘pay as you go’ scheme so you don’t have to be a member of any group to take part in any of the activities – and you can do as much or as little as you would like to! We have a wide range of things available and we are always looking for new ideas so if you have anything you would like to see us do as part of the programme then let us know! The Give it a Go programme is launched at the start of each term so make sure you pick up a brochure and choose the activities, trips or events that you would like to take part in! For more information then please
www.upsu.net/giveitago or emaililgiveitago@upsu.net
visit
TRIP TO DISNEYLAND! 18-20 NOVEMBER 2011
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This November we are going to Disneyland as part of Give it a Go! Join us for a weekend in the Magic Kingdom from only £155! Price includes: 2 nights Bed and Breakfast in the 4* Magic Circus Hotel* Return luxury coach travel 2 day hopper pass into Disney Parks Optional day in Paris city centre Travel Insurance Visit www.upsu.net for more information and to reserve your place for only £50 deposit!
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image by Raymond Brown
M A E T S T N EVE WANTED!
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lendar of events
put on a ca kes to help us
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Here at UPSU we have lots of events and festivals – and we’d love you to get involved in helping us plan and deliver them! We can offer you lots of support, advice and great experiences for your CV as well as an opportunity to have fun, make new friends and create something wonderful for your fellow students! Whether you would like to help us plan volunteering events, sporting events (it’s an Olympic year so there are plenty of opportunities!) or our end of year Summer Carnival, it’s up to you – just let us know what you are interested in and how long you would be able to commit to being part of the event team.
ONE WORLD WEEK One of the biggest events on our calendar is One World Week in February/March – a week long festival of events and activities to share, celebrate and think about the amazing diversity of both our university and the world around us. One World Week is entirely student-led so we need lots of volunteers for the events team – from event organisers to graphic designers! If you want to help us put on our biggest student-led event of the year then let us know today!
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For more information or to let us know who you are and to put you on the mailing list then please email eventsteam@upsu.net or pop in to the Students’ Union.
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Waterhole Bar
Monday
pool tables Free pool all day on our 5 the kitchen. from ls New weekly specia 5pm from t Cocktail nigh
Tuesday
entry with Poker league from 7pm, £1 win a and r bee of lon cash prize, gal ichesCh inst aga e pet com to chance Solent ton mp tha ter, Winchester and Sou Student Unions.
Wednesday
e of Purple Wednesday - the hom SnakeyB, With . rtos spo Snakeyb and all our 5pm. from 0 8 £1. er’s ym Ga Carling and
Thursday
against your Big screen Xbox 360 action 5pm from t nigh il ckta Co . mates all day
Friday
your vocals Friday Night Live – warm up week a er oth ry eve n with karaoke, the student and al loc h wit nts eve mix of live n ope and dj’s bands, our best student . from mic nights to choose Spirit & Mixer Spirit & Mixer £2.00, Double a glass & £3.00, Barefoot Wine £2.00 £6.50 a bottle.
Saturday
all day with Skint Saturday! £1.60 drinks 2 big screens our all the sport shown on ry £1 from Ent . ens scre and 4 plasmas 7pm
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ry & win a Pool Competition 2pm, £1 ent r. gallon of bee gest and best Let’s Get Quizzical, the big starting from day student quiz each Sun 7.30pm
Your student bar in your Students’ Union, we are your friendly local but just for students so make sure you bring your student ID to get in! For all the latest info like our Facebook Fan Page www.facebook.com/thewaterhole We have the biggest beer garden in Portsmouth to take advantage of all those sunny days. Live sport from Sky Sports and ESPN is shown on our two big screens and plasma TV system. The kitchen is open Monday to Friday and we have the best value and selection of beer & burgers. Don’t panic though as there are plenty of healthy options to choose from. Each week we have different specials and we have our cheaper than chips Student Saver Meal. Breakfast is served until 11am.
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Activities
can get involved in There are lots of different activities and student groups that you hobby or existing an continue to way great whilst you are at University which is a friends! new make to way great a it’s course, of and, – learn something new that you can We have a wide range of sports clubs, societies and media groups own group! your start always can you then like you one join – and if you can’t find so make sure Centre Student the of oor fl rst fi the on is Centre s Activitie The Student you come and see us to find out all about our different groups.
Can’t find a group you want to join?
the group to be Then you can start one! All you need to do is tell us what you want group once it’s the and have a list of 20 people who would be interested in joining t Sports Presiden Vice or s Activitie t set up – then come in and see the Vice Presiden next. do to and they’ll tell you what you need
Societies
activities
Have a passion? Fancy trying something new? Want to meet like-minded people? Join a society!
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We have over 80 societies to choose from, put together by students and covering a huge range of common interests, physical activities, political, religious, cultural and academic activities. Societies represent and celebrate the Union’s diverse community and provides the opportunity for a great social life and learning new skills.
Union Common Interest
It would be too easy to suggest that Common Interest is just a group for those societies we can’t fit into any other category, but in reality Common Interest actually reflects the complete diversity of our societies and their availability to people of any ability, background or confidence.
Political
You’ve heard it all before, but it’s true, University really is the place where you’ll discover what you really believe. Our political societies cover most of the political spectrum, so if you want to get involved with campaigns to eliminate extreme poverty, save the environment or right some wrongs, our political societies will make you think and question the people who make rules and run offices.
Physical Activities
If it’s a sense of adventure you’re after, or like to keep fit, or want to develop new skills and have lots of fun, then taking part in a physical activity is for you. Physical Activities accommodate people of all abilities and exist primarily for recreation not competition.
Faith
Passionate about your beliefs? Take part in or witness the experience offered by our vibrant community of faith based societies; open for believers and non-believers alike. Faith based societies are ideal for meeting people from similar background, or the perfect place to ask those hard hitting questions.
Cultural
If you’re missing a slice of home or feel like you want to relish in your culture then joining a cultural society is for you! From traditional music to home cooked meals, there’s an extended family in Portsmouth waiting for you.
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Being part of an academic society is a fantastic way to gain the most from your studies, but that’s not all they offer, it’s a brilliant way to network with people at all levels of your course. You can share ideas and thoughts on your work, go on field trips, or even lobby the University on issues you are unhappy about.
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www.upsu.net/societies
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Alongside the fun and social side, being involved in a society can help you gain tons of experience by becoming a committee member: managing groups of people, organising and running events, managing budgets, learning about marketing, becoming a specialist in certain areas – these are things employers will look for once you have graduated. Got a specific interest or hobby we don’t cater for yet? Start your own society! We’ll provide all the support you need to get it up and running. We also have a list of societies that have previously been part of the Union, but need an injection of new life, which you can adopt and bring back to their former glory. Whether you want to further your passion or just have a good time, Societies has something for everyone and it’s a guarantee that getting involved will make for an unforgettable three years. Loads of societies will be showcasing what they do at Freshers’ Fayre with taster sessions throughout Freshtival, and a full list can be found on the Societies webpage at:
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Page 30by Jessica Watson
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You’ve probably had loads of people telling you that the best way to get involved in University life is to join a sports club, and you know, they might just be right. The Athletic Union is the home to 35 sports clubs, ranging from football and hockey, to octopush and lacrosse. The AU is notorious for its friendly and social atmosphere, welcoming everyone and anyone. There is plenty of opportunity for both competitive and social sport as well as a vibrant social life centred around the Union. If coaching is your thing you can gain coaching qualifications through the UP 4 Sport system and go into the wider community to coach a range of ages and sports. Whether you just want to get some exercise, or compete nationally for your University, there’s something for everyone. Portsmouth has been recognised as a national performance centre for English Hockey, and our Boxing team has been English and British University Champions for 4 years running, American Football are national University champions as well as plenty of division 1 teams pushing for the premier league! Sport at the Union is all about getting involved and participating so opportunity is plentiful. The intra-mural system provides a surrounding for social sport with friends in a more relaxed atmosphere. There are plenty of tournaments throughout the year to get involved in from dodgeball to indoor cricket. There are also plenty of leagues to participate in on a regular basis, and there are plenty of sports for you and your friends to form your own team and your own fun! Throughout the year, the AU run a number of big events. There’s Varsity, an entire day of competitive sport against our South Coast rivals, Southampton, or our annual Sports Tour to Salou. Not forgetting the AU’s Awards Dinner, the highlight of the year, where we reward our members who have given much of their time and dedication to the AU and those who have achieved. It’s a night of celebration and pride for the sports clubs. There are plenty of events throughout the year and whatever you choose to take part in, you’ll have the time of your life!
Find out more at: www.upsu.net/sports
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You can find out more about the AU by either picking up a copy of the AU Brochure, which will give you details of every club at the Union, or by visiting our website.
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Media
UPSU Media aims to give students a real life, professional media experience.
All of our media outlets are entirely student led, from our radio station PureFM and TV station UPSUtv, to our printed publications, Pugwash News and Pugwash Magazine. Through these real life working media activities, you can gain a whole range of skills as well as embracing the vibrant social side of our student media. They provide a free and open outlet for student opinion to be heard. The experience offered by the Union’s media really is invaluable for those pursuing a career in media, with training that helps prepare you for future jobs using professional software and equipment. No previous experience is necessary, and whether you have a media career in mind or just want to try your hand at something new, there’ll be something to suit you in our student media! For an overview of all our media, check
www.upsu.net/activities/ media
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UPSUtv
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The UPSUtv team get out and about, filming big events such as Varsity, Carnival and student elections, as well as other regular and one-off shows. We’re always looking for new volunteers to join the TV team, with opportunities ranging from presenting or filming to video editing and production. Whether you have the skills already or want to learn something new, we’d love to hear from you!
www.upsu.tv tv@upsu.net
PureFM
The Union’s very own internet radio station PureFM focus on giving their members the best experience of working in a real radio station, with state of the art studios and equipment. We offer you the chance to present and produce your own show, or get involved behind the scenes with the news, music and tech teams. You can listen to PureFM online, where you’ll find a range of shows to suit almost everyone.
www.purefm.com office@purefm.com
Pugwash News
Pugwash News is the Union’s fortnightly newspaper, packed with news, opinion and features all entirely written by student volunteers. It has a dedicated Sports section primarily focused on the Union’s sports clubs, as well as reviews of film, music, culture and anything else you can imagine. You can get involved at any level, from Editor to writing the occasional piece on whatever tickles your fancy - or you could try your hand at a bit of design: laying up an issue of the paper on professional editing software.
pugwashnews.com pugwashnews@upsu.net
Pugwash Mag�ine
www.pugwashmagazine.com pugwashmag@upsu.net
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Our glossy magazine is published four times a year and has previously been recognised by the Guardian Student Media Awards as Best Student Publication. Pugwash Magazine showcases the best creative talent from across the University, and you can get involved as a writer, photographer, artist or designer. Each issue is loosely based around a theme, but it really is open to anything!
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RAG
Raising and Giving
What is
RAG?
Raising and Giving, affectionately known as RAG, is a student-led activity that organise a whole host of fantastic events that raise money for great causes. Last year we raised over £25,000 for local, national and international charities, and this year, we plan to smash that target and reach £40,000! This year, RAG will give you the opportunity to try some amazing new challenges as part of our Student Adventures programme, as well as providing lots of fun events from adventure treks to cake sales, and a great social side too! Anyone can get involved, and ideas for your own fundraising events are always welcome – societies and sports clubs often hold successful fundraising events. You could even be part of our RAG committee, providing great experience employers will really value. We support a wide range of charities across the year, so if you have a cause that’s close to your heart, RAG wants to help you help them!
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Guide Kilimanjaro Summit Trek
Fancy an amazing once-in-a lifetime challenge? The summit of Kilimanjaro, the rooftop of Africa and the ultimate African adventure awaits those who dare.
London to Paris Cycle
The London to Paris Bike ride is an adventure on two wheels that will challenge you and provide an unforgettable experience, taking you on a journey that finishes under the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Skydive
If you’re a bit of a daredevil, jumping out of a plane (parachute attached!) to raise money for a brilliant cause is for you!
LOST
Dropped in the middle of an unknown forest location, use your initiative and blagging skills to get your team back first! As well as these events, there are loads of other ways you can get involved – from bake sales to gigs, dressing up, competing to raise the most at one of our RAG raids and many, many more. Keep an eye on our website for upto-the-minute information! You’ll also be able to catch the RAG team at Freshers’ Fayre for more information on how you can take on one of these fantastic challenges – or come up with your own!
image by mattk1979
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www.upsu.net/activities/rag
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rag@upsu.net
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volunteerinG Volunteering is an amazing thing to do at University, not only will it allow you to meet loads of new people, but also residents from Portsmouth itself! Volunteering allows you to use different skills, and do lots of things you may not have tried before, all looking great to prospec-
tive employers! This year will see the introduction of accreditation and a comprehensive training programme for volunteers within the Union, so not only are you helping people and doing something good you are also getting a step up on your University colleagues.
Intergenerational Projects
We are continuing both PIPPY and Games of Life, which were hugely successful last year, but are combining the two under the name of ‘Intergenerational Projects’. Both schemes look to integrate University students with older members of the community, through skill swapping and playing games! This is a great way to get involved with the local community and really make a difference, while the regular commitment looks great on your CV.
VIP
Volunteering in Portsmouth is a fantastic group, led by students and giving you the chance to choose what you get involved with! You may not be able to give up a lot of your time, but being a part of VIP can look great on your CV and is a great way to meet people who are interested in the same things you are. VIP organises events throughout the year, from arts and crafts days with disabled children, to Christmas dinners with elderly residents, helping the environment and encouraging children to play sport. If you become one of our volunteers you can do as much or as little as you like, it’s completely up to you!
READ International
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READ International is a student-led charity working to improve access to education in East Africa. By volunteering as an intern you can help to improve education resources in Tanzania and Uganda, with the possibility of also visiting one of these countries in the summer to take part in a Library Renovation project.
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Volunteering Abroad
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Whether you are finishing your degree or looking to fill your summer, volunteering abroad can be a great experience and can set you apart when looking for a job. We will be developing opportunities for students to volunteer abroad through the Union, but even if you are going it alone we can offer advice and support when you are planning your trip!
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Links with volunteer organisations If taking part in one of the projects run by the Union isn’t for you, but you still want to volunteer some time, we are able to link up with some of the great organisations that are already operating locally. Check out *www.upsu.net/volunteering* for more information about the latest opportunities.
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Take the bus
to University
ÂŁ12
7 days bus travell
price correct at 17th April 2011
only
with a Portsmouth for extra savings buy a season ticket** * terms & conditions apply ** 4 weeks or more
megarider unlimited Stagecoach bus travel across Portsmouth & Southsea
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activities
stagecoachbus.com/south
activities
Guide
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Guide
HAIR STYLING
FOR MEN INTRODUCTORY OFFER
FREE MEN-U PRODUCT WORTH UP TO £14.95 WITH EVERY STUDENT HAIRCUT* 023 9282 6663 WWW.RAZORS-EDGE.CO.UK * NUS Card required, offer ends 31.10.11 Product shown for illustrative purposes only
PORTSMOUTH & SOUTHSEA TRAIN STATION
Welfare Campaigns
Union
Support and Welfare is such a fundamental part of what the Union is about and throughout the year we run a number of awareness and support campaigns. At the Union we are dedicated to the welfare of our students, making sure you’re not only getting the most out of your time at University, but your doing it in a safe and responsible way. You will always find someone at the Union who is willing to help you be it with housing problems, financial issues or something personal. We are always here for a cup of tea and a chat, or someone to point you in the right direction. Throughout Freshers Fortnight, you’ll see our dedicated team of SU Heroes out and about, making sure your safe on a night out, armed with taxi numbers, condoms, spikeys and a smile. We know how scary a new city can be, and we’re here to make sure you’re not lost, hurt or on your own. So if you do find yourself needing help on a night out, there will be someone there.
November drugs and alcohol January positive living/stressless February S.H.A.G March Money Advice
Need Advice?
Our Welfare and Community Officer is always on hand and happy to help...If you need support or advice and don’t know who to talk to, contact Steve.
stephen.roberts@upsu.net 02392 843635
support
We also actively run a number of campaigns throughout the year from Drug and Alcohol awareness, Stress management weeks, Money advice weeks and SHAG week (Sexual Health And Guidance). So if you see these weeks happening around campus do get involved as they are run just for you. If you are really passionate about a certain cause, we will help you run your own campaign. Look out for these campaigns coming up this year.
October settling in
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Academic
Support and Representation
So pretty much everyone’s here for one reason. To get a degree, right? Well the union is here to help you. The Union is dedicated to ensuring each student has the best student experience and part of that is your learning. So our Academic Support team have the ways and means to represent and help you and ensure the University changes and adapts to meet your needs as a student.
Academic Casework
Other than that, we’re also here to help if you should have a problem. Hopefully you won’t and you’ll never need to come to us for help. But, if you do, we’re here for you. The best way to avoid problems with your course is to try and deal with any issues before they get out of control. So never suffer in silence, there is always someone to talk to.
support
If you have any concerns about your work, and feel uncomfortable talking to your personal tutor or your lecturers about it, you can pop in and have a confidential chat with one of the Academic Support Team at the Union. We can also help you out with extenuating circumstances forms (ECF’s), academic complaints or appeals. Or if you just want to have a chat about your worries, we’re here for that too. From the library through assessments to personal tutors, the Union can help you get your voice heard and your needs met, and we have a bunch of people dedicated to just doing that. 46
The Course Rep System
Union
A key part is helping run the course rep system. Each year level on each course will have at least one course rep; a student who is elected by their peers to raise student issues in their departments, the Union and at University levels. Course reps are elected in the first two weeks of the academic year usually in your year meeting, so if you like the sound of being the voice of your course mates than you can stand for election. Course reps are the volunteers who channel communication between students, the University and the Union. They are highly valued by the University and the Union so if there’s something you want to say about your course or your experience as a learner, your first stop should be your course rep. We also have school presidents, faculty reps and a Chair of Course Rep Council to make sure you have input into your course and learning experience
Union Student Council (monthly meeting)
Academic Representation
University
Students
Academic Council
1 chair of course rep executive
Course Rep Exec
Course Rep Council faculty based (monthly meeting)
attends chairs
5 Faculty Reps
65 School Presidents
900 Course reps
Faculty Board
Board of Studies (once a semester)
SSCC Student Staff Consultative Commitee (once a semester)
22,000 students
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support
For more information or help with an Academic Casework Issue, please contact academicsupport@upsu.net or call 02392 845310 or drop into our open surgery on Thursday afternoons 1-5pm. We are in Gun House, Students’ Union, within the Volunteering and Representation office.
Guide
Community
A big part of student life is moving out on your own and adjusting to life in a new place, and a great way to make this whole process easier is to get involved with the both the local community and the community within the Union.
The Union
There are loads of examples throughout this guide of how you can get involved in the community that is the Students’ Union. From sports, societies and volunteering to opportunities to be a part of the course rep system and play an active part in Union democracy through Student Council and Elections there is something for everyone! Being a part of this community is the best way to meet new people who share your interests and make the most out of your time at University.
Local Community
Part of living in Portsmouth is becoming a member of the local community and whether you are living in Southsea, Somerstown or any of the other areas in the city, there is something to get involved in. Something as simple as introducing yourselves to new neighbours can make living alongside them for the next year a much better experience, whilst if you want to go even further you can take part in any of our community volunteering projects, or become one of our Community Reps.
Community Reps
support
These students are our representatives in the local community and should act as the point of contact for everyone living in their area. There is no better way to get to know other students than being their point of contact, whether it’s to represent them at local residents’ meetings or just arrange a social!
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If you are interested in getting involved in the Community Rep scheme then get in touch with Steve, our Welfare and Community Officer: stephen.roberts@upsu.net 02392 843635
Union
Get Home Safe! The Safety Bus is a free service funded by the Union, and run by our SU Heroes to provide free transport to students on their way home from nights out. The bus will be running during Freshtival and during Purple Wednesdays all year.
SU HEROES!
SU Heroes are our super students, looking after you while you are out and about so keep an eye out for them during Freshtival and on nights out throughout the year! If you want to get involved and become an SU Hero then get in touch at suheroes@upsu.net. There will be some exciting rewards for those who volunteer their time and chances throughout the year for Heroes to make the most of days off with socials!
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Guide
International Welcome to the University of Portsmouth! We have students from over 100 countries here in Portsmouth so this is truly a global university.
Whether you are here for one term or for three years – you are a member of the Students’ Union and we are here to help you. The Students’ Union provides academic advice for you if you have any problems with your studies as well as lots of social opportunities for you to make new friends and learn new skills.
support
On our website we have a special section for international students which has lots of information about Portsmouth in general as well as listings of all of the activities that you can get involved in. We also have a helpful dictionary to explain some of the new words and phrases you might come across whilst you are
at University to help you understand what certain things mean! We are launching more activities, this year, as well for students to embrace the global culture of university, such as volunteering abroad, One World Week, fundraising treks across the rainforest and the brand new Global Cafe. For further details of all these activities and for general information for all of our international students please visit www.upsu.net/ international If you ever have a question or a problem then please just come to the Students’ Union reception area and we will try our very best to help you. We are here to make sure that you have a fantastic time in Portsmouth!
We also have an International Students Association that is free for all international students to join - look at the website for more information or email isa@upsu.net 50
Guide
Welcome to the CITY
Union
So, you’ve arrived in Portsmouth, and hopefully by now you’ll have just about settled into wherever it is you’re living for the next 10 months, but what next? If you’re new to Portsmouth there’s probably a few things we should tell you right now...
1. ‘Pompey’ is the locals’ name for the City, pretty sure we’ve got the Navy to thank for that one. 2. The Pompey Guide is your one stop guide to Portsmouth, with information about where to go, and what to do. It’s written by students past and present, so you know you’re getting the real story. 3. No, road cones are not acceptable bedroom furniture. By the time you’ve finished reading this hopefully you’ll feel a bit better acquainted with your new home. Let’s start with the basics, Portsmouth is pretty much an island, surrounded on three sides by water. So not only are you never far from the seaside, but almost everything is within walking distance. We’ve tried to pick out the most exciting bits to tell you about, but the truth is , Portsmouth is packed with things to do and places to explore. So, take a look at the map and figure out where to go first, hopefully this guide will give you some inspiration.
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image by -Bert23- www.aerosolplanet.com
Guide The
UnionQuarter Portsmouth is a fantastic city, and because it’s not huge everything is within walking distance. The University is in the heart of the city and while your learning you really don’t have to go far for anything.
Here you’ll find the Student Union, seconds away from most of the University buildings and full of friendly staff able to help you with anything from academic support, to getting involved in sports. Across the road is Guildhall Walk, which offers a wide choice of commercial bars and clubs, perfect for lunch in between lectures or a night out on the town. There is also the Guildhall square linking the campus to the high street, where you can also watch the big screen. Next door is Victoria Park, where on a sunny day you can enjoy a break sat on the grass and even feed the guinea pigs and rabbits in the animal enclosure. In the opposite direction you can find a host of cafes and takeaway food outlets selling baguettes, paninis, falafel, cakes, coffee and smoothies.
city life
You will also find the 2 University sports centres; The Nuffield Centre, where you can attend classes and St Pauls, where you will find a large gym. Both centres have sports halls perfect for activities like netball and badminton.
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Also close by you will find the University Library equipped with computer rooms, group study rooms, photocopying facilities, a cafe and very friendly helpful staff.
image by Margaret Anne Clarke
Gunwharf
Union
While the alluring buzz of high profile Italian, contemporary and runway stores may have been keeping the students concentrated in London for years, the trend may be gradually sliding down; right down to our gorgeous metropolis of Portsmouth. The stock on display may be a bit pricey on a student’s budget, the indulgence definately makes up for it. The complex boasts a whole host of designer outlets and when you’re finished shopping there is a huge selection of great restuarants and bars that line the Harbours edge. Alongside the contemporary shopping complex you’ll find the Historic Dockyard. It plays a major part in the city being considered the most haunted in the South! Portsmouth is famous around the world for its Naval history and is home to worlds oldest dry dock which is still in use today. HMS victory is the main attraction, where dozens of tourists visit the exact spot where Nelson was shot by the French. Add HMS Warrior, the Mary Rose Museum and a harbour boat tour - and you have the perfect afternoon out to understand the history of the city.
image by David Jones
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Make sure you check out the Spinnaker Tower for fantastic views, the bars for cocktails and dancing, the shops for some bargain designer clothing, and any of the restaurants. And if that’s not enough - the bowling alley and the cinema!
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Guide
TheWaterfront More front than Southsea’ is a common expression in Portsmouth, once you see just how far it stretches you may well be tempted to use it yourself. So let’s start the seaside tour with Cumberland house, home to the Natural History Museum and Butterfly House. Inside you have a selection of animals, some dead, some alive, and what’s more, they have been cleverly hung so that there is always one of them watching you. Behind the museum are the Rose Gardens, when in blossom, it’s a beautiful little hideaway. Next you have the Model Village, if you suffer from Microphobia then this might not be your thing. This brings us to the lake, and the pedalos!
and a few rides which give you that ‘we do like to be beside the seaside’ feeling. And there is a dirty great big field right next door which hosts a car-boot sale every Sunday morning.
Make sure you head to the Common on a sunny day for a BBQ and icecream, lose some change at the Arcade, beat your mates at crazy golf and take a beach stroll at sunset.
Next up is South Parade Pier, very ‘bucket and spade’ traditional Victoriana and full of fruit machines. Your next stop is the Pyramids swimming pool and the D-Day Museum. Next door is Southsea Castle, As you move further along the seafront and towards the start of Southsea Common you come across the Blue Reef Aquarium and the Treasure Island crazy golf course.
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And when you just fancy getting away from it all - jump on the hovercraft over to the Isle of Wight - which is a whole story in itself, check one of the tourist information kiosks for information on days out across the water. Finally, we arrive at Clarence pier and the funfair. It has amusement arcades
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image by Silly Little Man
Palmerston Road
Union
Palmerston Road has a much more upmarket feel to it, with food fairs and farmers’ markets being a common feature at weekends. The big department stores mark the entry to the precinct which has all the usual retailers from hardware to stationery, and the northern tip branches off to Marmion Road with its quirky boutique shops. Those that think they have seen it all may wish to visit Southsea Rock with it’s entertaining collection of ‘chic and shock’. The south side of Palmerston Road has a spread of late night bars, cool clubs and pricey but impressive restaurants, perfect for a date or taking the parents when they visit. It’s really worth taking the time to explore some of the venues here as they each have their own personality hard to find in the age of corporate high streets.
city life
Make sure you visit the farmers markets and food festivals to try something new and the independant restaurants and bars for fresh food, cocktails and a range of world beers.
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Guide
AlbertRoad Albert Road is the epicentre of easy-going socialising in Southsea. With a bohemian variety of pubs, quirky shops, and the best live venues in the city, you will almost certainly find yourself down here at some point. The Kings Theatre is the main landmark and is bordered by some of the most popular venues, many of which offer pavement seating which is perfect for a sunny Saturday or a leisurely lunch. Moving towards the mid-point traffic lights you have a 24 hour supermarket which is an absolute blessing when you run out of milk or electricity in the small hours, and a little further brings you to the Wedgewood Rooms. Look them up online and be astounded by the tiny venue which punches well above it’s weight to attract some of the best live acts around.
city life
Albert Road also qualifies as Southsea’s very own ‘Curry Mile’, with many well loved eateries providing a huge variety of quality food until the early hours. And it’ doesnt just cater for late nights, the far end by Festing Road has a cluster of excellent value cafes to recharge you with a full English Breakfast.
Make sure you visit The ‘Wedge’ for live music, Little Johnny Russells, The One Eyed Dog, The Fat Fox, Porters and the Wine Vaults for drinks and/or food.
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image by -Bert23- www.aerosolplanet.com
Fratton
Union
Sandwiched between Southsea and North End, Fratton is situated right in the heart of the city. It has its own train station and allows easy access to all parts of the city, and cheap rent makes this a close second to Southsea.
Site of Fratton Park – home of Portsmouth Football Club – Fratton resonates to the merry chant of ‘Play up Pompey’ on Saturday afternoons. Fratton is bordered to the south by the station and the railway line and while it doesn’t have any night clubs there is a great selection of pubs and shops along the high street, which stretches from the station right up to St Mary’s church. You can find a lot of bargain gear here, including a great art supplies shop on Fratton Bridge. A popular area for students looking for cheaper houses than those in Southsea, Fratton is still well within easy reach of the main Uni buildings. With the Bridge shopping centre right in the middle – complete with a massive Asda - handy! Halfway up the high street is a huge discount shoe shop in what used to be a cinema. There is also a late night chemist in case you get the sniffles and St Mary’s Church at the north end makes for a useful landmark.
image by holidaypics
city life
Make sure you visit Fratton Park to catch a game and check out all the charity shops for some retro styling.
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Guide
Commercial Road Commercial Road is pretty much Portsmouth’s Town Centre, although there is also shopping at Gunwharf and Palmerston Road. If you’re living in any of the Guildhall Halls you’ll find that Tesco at the end of Commercial Road is your nearest Supermarket. If you live further out, your best bet is the big Asda in Fratton. You should be able to find everything you want or need in Commercial Road - It has all the highstreet favourites like Topshop, River Island, Miss Selfridge, Debenhams, Warehouse and Burtons as well as bookshops and stationary retailers. There are regular markets where you can get fruit and veg or things like mobile phone accessories.
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At the bottom of the street is Portsmouth and Southsea trainstation and just past that you reach the Guildhall which plays host to a range of live entertainment, from comedy to bands.
Make sure when you visit the highstreet you don’t forget your student card! Most of the top stores offer student discount so grab yourself a bargain!
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image by Exelcise
Langstone
Union
If you’re in Langstone Halls, you’re living in one of the most beautiful parts of Portsmouth; right on Langstone Harbour. Langstone Harbour is an important wildlife site and a area of real wilderness alongside a major city. Seals are sometimes seen in the Harbour, attracted by the abundance of food. A small fleet of native fishing boats also harvest fish, oysters and cuttlefish depending on the season, and many anglers fish from shore. Sailors, windsurfers and other watersports enthusiasts also share the harbour. Langstone is home to pretty much all of the University’s outdoor facilities; football, rugby, hockey, lacrosse and netball pitches all exist here. On Eastern Road there is the Portsmouth Watersports Centre which not only offers a variety of watersports courses but also has a great outdoor climbing wall. Also on Eastern Road there is a cluster of superstores including Halfords, Homebase, PC World, Staples and Morrisons. Langstone Harbour is almost unique in having a level footpath around most of its 14 mile shoreline. Using the ferry to cross the entrance, the harbour can be circled in a little more than four hours, or provide a more leisurely day’s walking, taking advantage of the numerous pubs along the route.
image by GDM2010
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city life
Make sure you take a stroll along the harbour and rehydrate yourself in one of the pubs on route or get involved in the watersports on offer.
illustrations by Jasmine Drew
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Guide
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Beyond Portsmouth
Guide Isle of Wight
Just of the coast of Southsea is the diamond shaped island that was a favourite playground of the Victorian era, and can sometimes still feel like it. It has sandy beaches and the stuff of traditional seaside postcards. Getting there is easy - there are ferries and hovercrafts zipping back and forth all day that will offer student discount. The Island also has a curiously retro train service to shuffle you to Shanklin and Sandown where the beaches can be found and in the summer it’s also home to two of the UK’s top music festivals.
Hayling Island
Even closer is Hayling Island. Cut out the long car journey by taking your bike across the ferry and spend a day among the sand dunes and seafront eateries. And for water sport fans - this is the birthplace of windsurfing and you will see many windsurfers and kitesurfers out all year round.
Chichester
While Portsmouth can trace its history back to medieval times, Chichester trumps us with its Roman origins. The city has a reputation for culture, history and being a bit posh. The central area is great for shopping and easy to get to by train. The enormous cathedral spire will keep you from getting lost. The flagship theatre attracts famous acts all year round and the city even has its own symphony orchestra,
Brighton
A little bit further down the coast is Brighton, often referred to as ‘London’s dirty little sister’. The city is renowned for it’s bohemian art, unique shopping and gay scene. By day shoppers flock to the ‘Laines’, a collection of bohemian backstreets flooded with clothes, art, graphic novels and new-age shops. By night, the city heaves with clubs catering for every taste. Brighton also has many cultural events and is firmly on the map for music and theatre tours so keep your eyes peeled.
London
city life
This is the big daddy. Daunting in scale to the first time visitor, London .. has it all. Museums, History, Culture, Shopping - You’ll find the very best. trains to London take less than 2 hours but dont forget to add on tube journeys. To get the most out of your visit plan your day and remember, it doesn’t have to be expensive, many of the galleries and musems are free!
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Union
UniversityServices
During your time at University, you may find yourself in need of advice. The University has a number of services in place to help
Doctors
If you ever become ill while you are here it is important that you are registered with a doctor. The University has its own surgery for full time students living in Portsmouth.
Maths Cafe
Get a better taste for maths and be more successful on your course. If you need help with a maths stats problem contact the maths cafe
Housing
Finding a place to live is a priority for all students. Student Housing aims to help you find the right home and look after your housing needs.
Library
The University Library is a friendly, welcoming learning space at the heart of campus.
International Office
Studying for a University qualification in a
nother country is a major commitment and can be quite daunting. The International Office run a Mix and Match mentoring scheme to help International students mix with Home students.
Finance
The Student Finance Centre provides a wide range of financial services to guide and support you through your time at University. The team can offer information and guidance on all matters relating to finance and funding.
Chaplaincy
If you would like to catch up over a coffee, share lunch with friends, read a paper or seek some sanctuary, then visit the Oasis Suite in the University Chaplaincy.
Purple Door
Purple Door Careers and Recruitment is dedicated to helping you work out what you really want to do for a satisfyng and enjoyable career.
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HUGE STUDENT SAVINGS! • HUGE STUDENT SAVINGS!
Guide
Buy One Pizza*, Get One
Enter STUDENTS when promted at www.dominos.co.uk
Every Tuesday
63-65 Fratton Road, Portsmouth PO1 5AE
To order call 023 92291291 Delivering until 5am 7 days a week To receive offers from the Domino’s Family‡ direct to your mobile, text the word ‘PIZZA’ & your postcode to 60606. Text is charged at standard network rate.
city life
Online Offer Conditions: Collection or delivery. Please mention offer when ordering. Not valid with any other offers. Valid at participating stores only. Only available online at www.dominos.co.uk. Limited delivery area designed with safety in mind. Offer is subject to availability and can be withdrawn without notice. Proof of student I.D. will be needed. ‡For a full explanation of Domino’s Family, please see our privacy policy at www.dominos.co.uk. Two For Tuesday Conditions: *At regular menu price. **Free pizza must be of equal or lesser value than the first. Available on medium or large only. Available on Tuesdays only. Not valid with any other offer. Valid for a limited time only and at participating stores. Please mention offer when ordering. Includes ‘Create your own’ up to 4 toppings. Subject to availability. Double Decadence and Dominator bases are charged as extra.
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