Sep2018
#5
WSU
Brought to you by Harrison Jarrett and Worcester Students’ Union
WORC HARD HARD WORC PLAY HARD PLAY HARD
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Who are the SU? Club & Society News Moving to University “Felix the Course Rep”
EDITORIAL Hi,
I’m Harrison Jarrett, your Vice President Student Activities.
I am delighted to present the fifth issue of Worc Hard Play Hard magazine. One of my key manifesto aims was to make sure the profiles of both sports clubs and societies are raised, achievements are celebrated and shared throughout the University during my time in office and beyond. Producing a majority student-led magazine showcasing sports, societies, volunteering, RAG, Reps and much more will help support us to achieve this. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who engaged and voted in the full time officer elections in March 2018. Without your votes I would not have been presented with the incredible opportunity to represent your student voice. Additionally, a big thank you to every individual who has contributed towards this edition of Worc Hard Play Hard. I really enjoy hearing about all the great achievements from our students. Please keep informing me about all your successes throughout the year. Showcase them and be proud! I can assure you we definitely are. Remember you will have the opportunity to feature and contribute your achievements during your time spent at the University of Worcester in future editions of the magazine which will be published throughout key points during the year.
CONTENTS
YOUR VOICE 10 FIlm Society 11 Debate Society 12 Loco Show Co.
CLUBS & SOCIETIES 19 20-21 22 23
Fencing Netball Handball Dance
WELCOME
04-07 Varsity
13 Worcester News Placement 14-17 Elections 24 25 26 26 27 27
LGBT History Month Volunteering Week Mature Students’ Food Drive Race Day Comedy Night Celebration Week
WELCOME TO THE SU! The Students’ Union (SU) is an organisation led by elected students for the benefit of students. As a student at the University of Worcester, you are automatically a member of the SU (and it’s completely free!). That means you get a big say in who represents you and how we’re run.
We might be biased, but we think getting involved with the SU is a great way to make your time at university the best it can be. If you’re looking to make new friends, join a club or society, get involved with fundraising, or enhance your employability skills, the SU is the place to come!
If you want to find out more about your Students’ Union, visit www.worcsu.com or pop in anytime. Our door is always open!
We were also shortlisted in e 2018 Na onal Union of S dents Awards for Union of e Year! Go #TeamWorc
is is US!
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MEET YOUR FULL TIME OFFICERS
They’re here to represent you and your interests (they’re quite a nice bunch too).
SU PRESIDENT LUCY CONN l.conn@worc.ac.uk
As President, it’s Lucy’s role to be the lead representative of Worcester Students' Union, championing the rights, welfare, and diversity of all our students. Throughout her time in office, Lucy will be working to ensure our students are empowered, and will campaign and speak up for the issues that really matter to you. FUN FACT: I have 5 dogs called; Betty T Boo, Rosie Woo Woo, Buddy Lou, Pixie Pooh (and Olivia).
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Lucy Conn Wsu Pres
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VP EDUCATION
EUAN MORRISON e.morrison@worc.ac.uk
Euan takes the lead on educational quality issues for the Students’ Union and ensures its members' interests are represented. Euan is now entering his second year in office and will carry on the work he started last year to improve the Course Rep system. FUN FACT: I can drink 6 pints of milk in one go and the Queen has watched me play golf.
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Euan Morrison Wsu Vpe
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VP STUDENT ACTIVITIES HARRISON JARRETT
harrison.jarrett@worc.ac.uk Harrison is responsible for sports, societies, and fundraising at the Students’ Union, supporting students in all extra-curricular aspects of their University experience. Over the 2018-19 academic year, Harrison wants to boost the profile of all our Clubs and Societies, and is looking to improve the recreational sports we have on offer for our students. FUN FACT: I once appeared on ITV2’s very own ‘Ibiza Weekender’
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Harrison Jarrett Wsu Vpsa
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AUTUMN ELECTIONS Could you see yourself working alongside Lucy, Euan and Harrison this year? In October, we’ll be holding our yearly Part Time Officer Elections. There are eight positions to be filled: Women’s Officer; Mature Students’ Officer; Sustainability Officer; LGBT Officer, Welfare Officer, Disability Officer, BAME Officer and International Officer. If you want to learn more about these roles, visit www.worcsu.com or get in touch with us today!
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FUTSAL
The Diabetes Football Community website
ARCHERY
The UK’s first ever all-Diabetic Futsal team competed in the DiaEuro tournament back in July, finishing in a stellar 11th place. The tournament, held in Bratislava, is an all-diabetic European futsal competition that was first held after the 2012 European Championships in Ukraine.
By Jacob Vick
Since returning from Canada last September to start my Primary and Outdoor Education course, I’ve finally been able to get back into Archery (during my 14 months in Canada I didn’t once pick up my bow!) Within 3 weeks of my return, I shot for Worcestershire at the Regional Inter Counties Championship.
Chris Bright, a student at the University of Worcester, is the founder of the the Diabetes Football Community and has played a key part in the development of the UKs first ever all-Diabetic Futsal team.
October to March is the indoor season for Archery and although I had not previously compete indoors, decided to focus solely on the British Universities and College Sports (BUCS) Indoor Championships. There was a regional qualifier before the finals weekend in which I shot the Portsmouth round very well finishing 15th out of 270 – therefore qualifying for the finals. The indoor finals round is a WA18 (World Archery 18 metres), a hard round to shoot, coming 44th out of 81 which was not the result I was hoping for.
In early 2017, the Diabetes Football Community was founded with the hope of delivering further understanding and enjoyment from football for people with the condition. "We believe we can provide diabetics throughout society with a peer support network that deals with first hand experiences, that help to deliver further understanding and enjoyment from football for people with the condition.”
After this I practised hard when I could. I saw Tony, my coach, almost weekly and worked hard in the gym on my fitness, strength and conditioning, whilst also continuing my studies. The BUCS Outdoor Championships were held at Lilleshall National Sports Centre at the end of June. The weather was brilliant and the shooting went really well, helping me finish 4th out 73 – scoring 4 points for the University in the BUCS Overall Championship. I was super pleased with this result, as it shows my archery comeback is getting there. I would like to thank the following for the continuing support: Aim4Sport, University of Worcester Sport Scholarship, Evesham Archery Club, Lift Up Gym, Tony Luff and my parents.
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NETBALL
By Chloe Brooks
On May 16th 2018, over 100 students from the University of Worcester joined together to raise money for charities ‘Mind’ and ‘Smile for Joel’, through a mixed Netball Tournament. Two members from the Netball Committee, Laura Morton and Chloe Brooks, organised the event with support from local businesses who donated generously to raffle and tournament prizes.
WOMEN’S RUGBY
The event saw an inspiring energy from all participants who had various backgrounds in the sport. Some were complete beginners, picking up the sport for the first time, and some were elite level with members of Severn Stars Super league netball team participating and raising money for these fantastic causes. It was incredible to see the University of Worcester Arena full with energy and enthusiasm as netballs bounced across 3 courts raising money by the second. A total of £216.21 was raised which was split equally between the two charities. We would like to take this moment to thank all of those who took part, donated and helped organise the event.
By Rosie Williams
First year students, Vicky Laflin, Cara Brincat, and Akina Gondwe were all selected to represent England U20 on a tour of Canada. Lewis Arnold, Head Rugby Coach at the University of Worcester said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for the three young women selected to tour Canada. To play for your country is a privilege and the University of Worcester representatives had been given a great opportunity to perform on the international stage. The three scholars have excelled this year on the UW performance program and are a testament to the partnership between Worcester Valkyries and the University of Worcester.”
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Vice President Student Activities at Worcester Students' Union, Harrison Jarret, says: "Worcester Students' Union are incredibly proud of Cara, Akina and Victoria in being chosen to represent their country, such an amazing achievement. We really are looking forward to getting the BUCS season underway with the girls back representing Worcester. Well Done Girls“
#TEAMWORC
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MATURE STUDENTS By Lou Le Page
Mature students make up a large percentage of the student body at the University of Worcester and, as such, the Mature Students Society provides an excellent place to meet fellow mature students. We are aware and considerate of the challenges faced by mature students, particularly where external commitments are concerned, and therefore offer a range of social events and support. We’re a welcoming and relaxed group; we don’t expect members to commit to anything beyond what your busy schedules allow!
If you want k p up date w h eve ing e Ma re S dents Society is doing, head over eir brand new webs e: uowm .wixs e.com /uowm
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EDUCATION ENHANCEMENT By Molly Jones
The Education Enhancement society aims to provide members with valuable skills and experiences that can be taken forward into a future career in education. We try to cater for all and organise exciting and interesting activities throughout the year in order to help enhance your professional development and allow you to thrive as an individual. Our first planned event of the 2018/19 academic year is a ‘get to know the society’ event, which will be held at Boston Tea Party, followed by a quiz night and bowling trip during our taster sessions later in the semester. For World Teacher’s Day, we are planning to invite Pam Gough in to the university to lead one of her amazing Sign-Along sessions. These are very popular and after this taster session, members will have the opportunity to purchase a Sign-Along course with Pam. Students who have completed this course have described it as ‘interactive’, ‘eye-opening’ and ‘very inspiring’.
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Other academic events which the society aim to offer to members this year are SEND specialist talks, a workshop on Morrells handwriting and the opportunity for members to listen first-hand to a school teacher’s experience in the private sector. As well as the opportunity of attending workshops, the society also hosts socials every Wednesday evening, giving members the opportunity to widen friendships and get to know students in different years and on different education courses.
LOCO SHOW CO.
Less than four months to put on one of the most iconic musicals of our time... That was the challenge Loco Show Co. accepted when it was announced back at the start of last year that our summer musical would be Grease; the musical made so famous by the 1978 film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. From our endlessly talented cast to our musical backbone in the form of our Loco band, to the efforts of our backstage crew and dedicated Production Team, hours and hours of rehearsals and so much time and effort went into putting on this production. We are so pleased that it was a sell out and the show weekend was wonderful for all involved.
However, now we look to the future as we welcome in a new semester with a new committee and hopefully some new faces for the society! Whether you play a musical instrument, are desperate to perform as part of the cast of a pantomime or musical or have a particular talent for backstage and stage management, then we want to hear from you! We will also have taster sessions taking place for new (and old) members as well as a whole society read through of our winter pantomime script! It’s sure to be Shrek-tacular! Keep an eye on our social media platforms for further info! @LocoShowCo
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CHECKLIST Everything you need to do when starting Uni
You’re here! The long and arduous wait is finally over and it’s time to begin student life. However, we know these first few days or weeks can be overwhelming, with the feeling you’ve been told a million things before term even starts. Luckily, we’ve created a little checklist for you in case you’ve lost track (or don’t even know where to start!) 1. Relax! It’s been a busy couple of weeks so take some time to chill out and relax and nurse that inevitable ‘Fresher’s Flu’.
6. Buy your Totum (student discount card) from the Welcome Desk in the SU and start saving money today. 7. Log in to your Reach account to get everything you could possibly need for University. Don’t forget to save some credit to buy your Celebration Week tickets later in the year.
2. Grab your copy of Worc Hard Play Hard and take some time to read it over a nice brew.
8. Find out how you can #GetInvolved. Saw something you like at the Clubs and Societies Fair? Visit www.worc su.com/sports_activities to find out more.
3. Get to know your surroundings – halls, laundry room, reception, friends flat, bar and so on.
4. Explore the city with your new friends. For example, where is your nearest local supermarket or pub?
9. Make sure you vote for your new Part-Time Officers in the Autumn Elections (keep a look out for those pesky ducks).
5. Check out the Students’ Union building and The Hangar.
10. Get excited for your lectures!
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STUDENT BLOG
TRANSITIONING TO UNIVERSITY Hi everyone!
I am excited to be writing another post for Worc Hard Play Hard! University is such an exciting and life changing experience. You’re not just studying towards a degree... Whilst at Worcester you will develop immensely as an individual, gaining opportunities, skills and many new people within your life. This time last year, I was starting that experience, so I thought it would be beneficial to share my top tips in regards to starting University and making the most of that transition! 1. Take advantage of meeting new people, whether that be on your course, in your halls or through University events. Socialising is a big part of that transition into University life, and even though it can be terrifying at first, connecting with others from different backgrounds makes first year and beyond really enjoyable and eye opening. What you will find is that the friends you make at University have a tendency to become friends for life!
2. Secondly, make use of the support available at the University. Firstpoint, The Students' Union, your lecturers, the University mental health services as well as the University’s Student Minds Society are all there to help you settle in and succeed, socially, emotionally and academically. They do not bite; they really are lovely and will go out of their way to support you in your endeavours and wellbeing!
3. Keep organised and up to date with the reading and tasks that your course gives you. Obviously, the first few weeks are very chaotic, full of adrenaline, the apprehensive attempts of ‘Adulting’, as well as the good ol’ hangovers! However, when things start to settle, remember your passion for your course and your academic aspirations. To do that, keep up with the reading and tasks, allowing regular contact with your lecturers and personal academic tutor throughout the three years. Use good time management and essay planning in your assignments, exams and projects. Act upon the feedback you are given. Your tutors are NOT belittling you, but are helping you get the best degree classification that you can possibly get! 4. Finally, make sure you give Toby the Campus Cat affection and attention regularly! Toby is a fluffy friend to all Worcester Uni students, making regular visits to halls and around St John’s Campus. Many people suffer from homesickness, so what is better that having a bit of animal therapy from an adorable cat who loves the attention?! Just remember not to feed him, so Toby can keep those allergies at bay. I hope these tips are of use to you and make you feel slightly more relaxed about taking that big next step in your life. Until next time! Rhianna Levi 15
HOW TO GET INVOLVED WITH THE SU
Everything you can get involved with!
There is lots to get involved with whilst at University, whether it be societies, sports clubs or volunteering, there is almost something for everyone. Firstly, to find out exactly what we offer our students, visit www.worcsu.com. Here you can view our A-Z of clubs and societies, as well as details about memberships and what they do. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, why not enquire about setting up your own?
You can also visit the volunteering pages, browse current opportunities and find out about our volunteering providers. Throughout the year, you can keep a log of all your volunteering hours. If you achieve 50 hours or higher, it will be recorded on your HEAR (official degree transcript). Then, at the end of the year we celebrate all the achievements of clubs, societies, volunteers, student staff (and more) at our Celebration Week awards nights.
As a Students’ Union, we also provide the opportunity for paid employment with us, whether that be as a member of student staff on Welcome Desk, in the bar, or in our Marketing team. We often recruit the majority of these positions during the summer, but keep an eye out for opportunities that may pop up throughout the year.
RAISE AND GIVE
If you’re passionate about good causes, getting involved with Raise and Give (RAG) is a great way to make a difference during your time at Worcester. During the last academic year, nearly £18,000 was raised by students at the University of Worcester for a variety of causes. None of this could have been achieved without the hard work of you, the students, as well as the RAG Chair, Harry Lonsdale, and the rest of the student-led RAG Committee. RAG has also been recognised in the National Student Fundraising Awards, shortlisted for the ‘Most Improved Fundraising Group’. Everyone give themselves a huge pat on the back.
To find out more about RAG and how you can #GetInvolved, visit
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FELIX, THE COURSE REP By Kevin Brooke
“Become a Course Rep,” they said. “You’ll be great.” I believed them too and yet here I was, in a meeting, surrounded by a load of serious looking people. I’ve never been so terrified. Dr Phillips sat at one end of the table. He’s not a Doctor of Medicine, but someone who knows a lot about politics. “Have you had a chance to peruse the agenda, Felix?” I nodded, nervously. “Been roped in have we?” said a woman I didn’t recognise. “Good show.” I smiled, anxiously, as the meeting moved from one subject to the next. “Item number five,” said Dr Phillips, the one who isn’t a proper doctor. “Student matters.” He looked in my direction. “As the only Course Rep who’s bothered to turn up, this is your moment.” Dr Phillips said. “Are the students happy, Felix?” I’ve never felt smaller. “I think so.” “Great,” he replied. “Okay then, matters arising.” As the focus moved elsewhere, I remembered something the other students had told me. “Apart from the seminars,” I whispered. Dr Phillips turned towards me once again. “Did you say something, Felix?” “You asked if students were happy,” I said, louder this time. “They are, mostly, but think the seminars could be improved. Instead of answering a few questions from a sheet of paper, some of us would prefer to be split into groups and have a proper debate.” “A debate?” “We are politics students, aren’t we?” For a moment, I thought I’d said something wrong, but then the woman I didn’t recognise nodded. “I think young Felix has a point,” she said. Dr Phillips rubbed his chin. “Maybe,” he said, scribbling a few notes onto his pad. “Well done Felix. Good thinking.” “Thanks,” I replied. Maybe these meetings weren’t going to be so bad after all.
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BECOME A COURSE REP WHAT IS A COURSE REP? A Course Rep is a student who represents their course mates’ academic views and concerns. As a Course Rep, you will be representing your course mates by listening to their views and concerns and sharing that information with staff who can then take action by making any appropriate and necessary changes. Reps also play an important role in closing the feedback loop by working with staff to ensure their course mates are aware of the impact their feedback has had.
HOW DO I BECOME A COURSE REP? Your Course Leader will organise a Course Rep Election by the end of week 4 of your academic calendar. This is the case for all first year students (both undergraduates and postgraduates), regardless of course. If you are thinking of standing for the role, we recommend that you speak to your Course Leader before the Course Rep Elections take place. During the Election, candidates will explain why they would like to take on the role and then your course mates will vote by way of secret ballot. If you have any questions or if you are not sure who your Course Leader is, please email our Student Voice Assistant, Jodie Stilgoe, at j.stilgoe@worc.ac.uk
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ISSUE 5
Be a part of I ue #6 AND WHPH online! e a-student magazine fu of stories wr en by you! Worc Hard Play Hard shows the variety of achievements from students of the University of Worcester, ranging from societies, sports, fundraising, volunteering, and more!
Whether it's an event your club or society has held recently, an opinion/creative piece, a blog, a competition you've been part of or something upcoming you want to promote, this magazine is all about student achievement.
Simply email sucommunica ons@worc.ac.uk find out more.
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Worcester Students’ Union Henwick Grove St John’s Worcester, WR2 6AJ www.worcsu.com