http://supresident.blog.co.uk/en-EUMokoFeed10http://supresident.blog.co.uk/http://data5.blog.de/design/preview/71/4d9d312f38c08709913723f7cee116_160x200.jpghttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/21/blog-20-04-a-blast-from-the-past-6150592/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-05-21:/2009/05/21/blog-20-04-a-blast-from-the-past-6150592/Thu, 21 May 2009 07:56:30 +0200 <p>Monday brought with it some long overdue work for the Student Experience Group. For weeks i had been collating data and research and my folder was looking decisively full, sadly however it had mysteriously managed to dodge typing any of it up!</p> <p>On Monday evening we had our first exec meeting back of the term with a number of important motions regarding changes to the executive elections.<br> Firstly a motion was called to change the restrictions on the Welsh Affairs Officer Candidates to be either learning welsh or had the ability to speak welsh - this would be self defined byt every individual.<br> The second was in relation to the new "societies and services officer" position. With such a position it was felt that the executive positions were now redundant, therefore the motion called for them to be removed. However it is also important that our Union executive remains a populous body ensuring a strong check and balance on sabbaticals and other officers. Therefore 2 non-portfolio officers would be created to both increase numbers and assist next years Elections Working Group in re-structuring the executive committee effectively.</p> <p>I also spent much of my week preparing the changeswansea site for the upcoming exec elections. From re-organising the remits to writing up reasons for students to run and FAQ's ensuring a clear and transparent elections process.</p> <p>On Tuesday we had our penultimate Student Affairs Committee of the year, a highly succesful committee fantastically chaired by Alan Speight. I was particularly impressed by his call for sabbatical officers to give a brief run down of our plans for the final term. Alongside this Ross and i could see the time ticking away on the NATIONAL STUDENT SURVEY countdown in the sky!</p> <p>Much of the rest of my week was taken up with raising exec elections profile, second campus work and building increasing liasons with the community. On Thursday night i worked with a number of local residents on a draft bid for increased funding for a "great gardens" scheme - highlighting both residents and students who made efforts to green up their streets and houses - much like the Unipol project in Leeds.</p> <p>On Friday I had an unexpected visit from a predecessor- Becki McKinlay President of the Union in 05/06- my first year! It was like a proper blast from the past. I had seen Becki at a leaving do for a colleague back in August/ September last year but due to the noise level in the venue we hadnt really had the chance for a proper chat!</p> <p>It was great to chat to someone who i think had a similar experience to me - except to be fair Becki and her team lost their then Welfare and Education officer in their first term - imagine the workload! </p> <p>I remember in our first year when we were doing our show the Lazy Students Club on Xtreme Becki would regularly message in - until one week when we forced her to come in to the studio and get involved - as you can see from the picture she got stuck in! A homage to the legend that is the Kinster!</p> <p>So a good week all in all and a good beginning to the end (sniff!)</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dscn1585/3524578" title="DSCN1585"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/578/3524578_1c0a77f939_s.jpeg" alt="DSCN1585" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/21/blog-20-04-a-blast-from-the-past-6150592/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/21/blog-20-04-a-blast-from-the-past-6150592/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-30-03-annual-conference-6140287/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-05-19:/2009/05/19/blog-30-03-annual-conference-6140287/Tue, 19 May 2009 09:40:44 +0200 <p>NUS Annual Conference – Good, Bad or Ugly?</p> <p>When you think of Blackpool you probably think of Donkey Rides, the Pepsi Max and a mahoosive tower! I would doubt that “foundation of national student policies” springs to mind, but in April 2009 Blackpool played host to a huge delegation of student representatives from around the country.</p> <p>I myself was amongst your eight elected delegates, sent to represent you and your fellow students. It was a fantastic experience, and I would like to begin by saying a huge thank you to all of you who elected me last year, it was a real privilege to represent Swansea students.<br> National Conference is a three day event where policies are raised by a huge number of delegates from any Union within the United Kingdom. These policies set the priorities of the National Union for the coming year. For example this year Plymouth University SU submitted a motion calling for NUS to continue to government to prevent students being forced to live in certain areas through HMO legislation.<br> Alongside these policies the National Officers report back on their year in office and are scrutinised by students throughout the Conference. Elections are held for a variety of positions from National President to National Executive Members.</p> <p>So was it worth it?<br> Definitely! The National Union has got some real power, from officers being involved in Government Educational Reviews, to providing training and support for student representatives, NUS is committed to building a strong and vocal Student Movement.</p> <p>With 2009 being the year of a potential review on Tuition Fees in the UK, it’s a concerning time for students. On returning from National Conference this year I’m proud to be part of a National Union which is moving forward loud and proud! I believe that NUS is at an amazing stage in its life, a stage where it can be a strong and active force to take on growing consumerism in Higher Education. If we are going to continue to encourage young people to further themselves in Higher Education we need to make sure their educational institution is of a high standard, and that can only be met if that institution is well funded.<br> Ultimately some of that cost will fall to the student, but it is important that this does not become a barrier to education. I believe that with NUS fighting for a fair, and accessible funding system Higher Education in the UK can as D: REAM once said “only get better”.</p> <p>For more information about your national Union why not check out <a href="http://www.nus.org">www.nus.org</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/2900_532526732894_289300834_1951820_112542_n/3519470" title="2900_532526732894_289300834_1951820_112542_n"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/470/3519470_a39a982046_s.jpg" alt="2900_532526732894_289300834_1951820_112542_n" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/2900_532526862634_289300834_1951845_5988687_n/3519471" title="2900_532526862634_289300834_1951845_5988687_n"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/471/3519471_fda93bda17_s.jpg" alt="2900_532526862634_289300834_1951845_5988687_n" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/n776285334_6372986_6195178/3519472" title="n776285334_6372986_6195178"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/472/3519472_7bad38f93f_s.jpg" alt="n776285334_6372986_6195178" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-30-03-annual-conference-6140287/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-30-03-annual-conference-6140287/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-23-03-more-elections-6139793/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-05-19:/2009/05/19/blog-23-03-more-elections-6139793/Tue, 19 May 2009 07:59:05 +0200 <p>With the Uni a little quieter it was time to knuckle down to some paperwork. From the portfolio i was putting together on campus development, to working with John and Beyram on the Student Experience survey it had piled up just a little!</p> <p>Alongside this I began the push for the executive elections coming up in the middle of May. We decided to go with the idea of “Could you represent them (your fellow students)” with promotion showing students at Swansea doing what students do!</p> <p>Alongside this the sabbs and I met with Rhys from NUS to discuss how we could leave the Union in good shape for our successors. We wanted to look at a Union wide review that ensured that students were getting maximum potential from the Union and staff were confident in what the Union was trying to achieve. From here we will be looking towards informal meetings, surveys and an away day!<br> Friday was by far the most exciting day of my week, I was invited to sit on a “stakeholders panel” for interviewing candidates for the director of Nus Wales role. When i arrived at Cardiff SU that morning it appeared that it was just me and a panel of GM’s and Managers, somewhat interesting and daunting!</p> <p>It was a really positive morning with an excellent opportunity to see where each candidate wished to take NUS Wales forward. With NUS Wales recent successes in its involvement in the WAG HE funding review and the positive outcome in the bursary review, NUS Wales is at a crucial time in its life and it is vital that it had a good director to support the officers at this stage.</p> <p><img src="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs011.snc1/2900_532528943464_289300834_1951967_7400708_n.jpg" alt="" title=""> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-23-03-more-elections-6139793/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-23-03-more-elections-6139793/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-16-03-a-slightly-more-relaxed-week-6139735/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-05-19:/2009/05/19/blog-16-03-a-slightly-more-relaxed-week-6139735/Tue, 19 May 2009 07:46:32 +0200 <p>Much of Monday was taken up with filing (and tidying) all the things I should have done during election week, then in the evening myself, Leoni and Andy went along to the annual AU awards dinner. It was an awesome night and a great opportunity to see so many fantastic students awarded for such a variety of different awards, the legendary Jeff Lee was deservedly nominated for all his time and effort!</p> <p>On Tuesday i sat on a review for the Universities partnership course with Neath Port Talbot College. The Foundation Certificate in Health Studies is a one year course offered in collaboration with the School of Health Science at the University. The course is primarily offered to build up students who did not quite make the grade for the BN Nursing Degree at Swansea, however the teaching offered is exceptional and really helps build the students almost above the grade. Throughout the day alongside my five academic colleagues we met with lecturers, students and support staff, no-one had a bad word to say about the course. What was extremely positive was the level at which many students who had gone on to the BN degree felt they were better prepared thanks to the course.</p> <p>On Tuesday evening a number of us made our way down to Cardiff for their reclaim the Night march. Katie Dalton NUS Wales Womens Officer did a fantastic job with an excellent route and a great host of speakers from a variety of different areas.</p> <p>On Wednesday Leoni and I made our way to Sketty Hall in search of students! Student Recruitment had asked us to help out with a Higher Education Fayre they were due to attend. With out trusty pamphlets and free pens i think we certainly recruited a few potentials!<br> In the evening a friend of mine was down to visit and we made our way to the Drama societies Macbeth performance. My old housemate Dan Entwistle did a fantastic job as Macbeth and the rest of the cast did great too, particularly the wicked witches who appeared permananently sozzled!</p> <p>On Thursday,following a particularly strange night at Willy Wonkas Easter Ball in Oceana (tuckshop and popcorn fountains?) Ross dragged me out to drive him down to Carmarthen. Ross and I had promised to pop down to meet the final year Nursing and Midwifery students there and discuss any issues they had and attempt to get them to fill in the National Student Survey. Despite my tiredness it was a really positive morning, especially with the students willingess to fill out the survey!</p> <p>The rest of my week was taken up with a variety of meetings from Union governance to University representation, thankfully though it was a little more relaxed than the previous week! </p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dsc_0032/3519310" title="DSC_0032"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/310/3519310_17bdb24e4a_s.jpeg" alt="DSC_0032" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dsc_0057/3519311" title="DSC_0057"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/311/3519311_a4322874b0_s.jpeg" alt="DSC_0057" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dsc_0040/3519312" title="DSC_0040"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/312/3519312_6337ce1942_s.jpeg" alt="DSC_0040" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-16-03-a-slightly-more-relaxed-week-6139735/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/05/19/blog-16-03-a-slightly-more-relaxed-week-6139735/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/blog-09-03-election-week-6007792/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-04-26:/2009/04/26/blog-09-03-election-week-6007792/Sun, 26 Apr 2009 01:05:37 +0200 <p>With campaign week in full swing i managed to fit in a couple of meetings with the University early on the Monday. Then at 12:00 we held our “Grill a Candidate” event in JC’s, where all the candidates attended to give a short speech but its open to anyone and everyone to ask all those questions, queries and thoughts. It was a really good event where all the candidates really gave it there all in a situation that isn’t too easy. </p> <p>In the evening i went along to the Erasmus social which once again was a spot on event made even more colourful when the sea of campaign t-shirts hit wind street!<br> On Tuesday i met with a number of local residents to discuss thoughts for our upcoming community champion awards. Pencilled in for June (ish) i hope that it will be a great opportunity for us to prove that there are a great many things that students and local residents are doing in within our community.</p> <p>Wednesday morning brought with it a Med school open day in the morning and then of course Village Election Day. In the afternoon Leoni and i made our way up to Woody’s to spend the afternoon on the ballot box.</p> <p>Thursday was of course the BIG DAY and whilst i wasn’t campaigning i really didn’t stop. In between helping on the ballot box, taking photos of the day and chasing candidates i got caught left, right and centre by students and staff – some students even had me fill in their psychological profile for their dissertation!</p> <p>Despite the weather the day was fantastic and really proved the importance of good promotion. From our huge “Vote here “ banner to my rather popular “think while you stink” toilet posters we really got the message out there. By the end of the day we were just shy of 2000 voters but then came the count!!!!</p> <p>By half past one in the morning it was all over and the following fantastic students were elected ;</p> <p>Education Officer; Ross Gilman<br> International and Overseas Officer; Andy Patton<br> President; Luke Young<br> Societies and Services Officer; Raechel Mattey<br> Welfare Officer; Lance Horsey<br> Womens Officer; Raegan Healy</p> <p>It had been an excellent week and whilst it felt a bit weird knowing your successor but still having 3 months to achieve your goals, it was a good feeling roll on July 2009!</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/ben/3446116" title="ben"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/116/3446116_278cba5cee_s.jpeg" alt="ben" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/team/3446117" title="team"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/117/3446117_f9dfec0abc_s.jpeg" alt="team" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/grill/3446119" title="grill"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/119/3446119_bed28d7cc9_s.jpeg" alt="grill" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/blog-09-03-election-week-6007792/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/blog-09-03-election-week-6007792/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/blog-02-03-democracy-representation-and-polar-bears-6007759/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-04-25:/2009/04/26/blog-02-03-democracy-representation-and-polar-bears-6007759/Sun, 26 Apr 2009 00:41:54 +0200 <p>With campaign week looming it was hard to stay focused on the day to day, but the work didn’t stop!</p> <p>On Monday I attended the Universities Council Away Day (surprisingly held in the Abbey?). The day was comprised of a series of presentations from the Senior Management Team – the Vice Chancellor, the Pro- Vice Chancellors and the Director of Finance. The team quite simply layed out their plans for the year ahead and the further long term for the University, from departmental changes to potential campus development. The day was extremely well layed out with a great opportunity to be a part of an excellent future not just for Swansea University but South Wales as a whole.</p> <p>On Tuesday following our previous few months research we held our first (and notably last) lunchtime Student General Meeting. Whilst the turnout was at an all time low it was a positive opportunity for the students in attendance to assist us in ensuring that the meetings are better attended. From discussing the time of meetings to how we could make them more informative and appealing to the student body, it was extremely helpful.</p> <p>On Wednesday i had a number of meetings with student services, before heading down in my rather fetching “Jim’ll Fix – It” Attire to Swansea Bay. This was for the annual Medsoc Polar Bear Run, where students in a variety of crazy outfits run down to the tide before attempting to swim (paddle/ squeal) through the water and back again.</p> <p>The infamous fundraiser raises thousands of pounds every year for a fantastic group of charities including the RNLI Mumbles Lifeboat station and the Swansea Gambia link. This was my second year doing the event and it certainly didn’t disappoint – even if i looked rather cold in our Learning and Teaching Committee that afternoon!</p> <p>For the rest of the afternoon i relocated to the Waterfront offices and in between writing stories and giving quotes managed to get some more fun election work out the way!!</p> <p>Thursday was my last opportunity to catch up on my backlog of paperwork before the frenzy began! In the evening following the official opening of campaigning i went along to People and Planets “Funky Fashion Show” in DV8. This was a fashion show for the society members to show off what was made in the workshops where people had altered, customised and funked up their old clothes!</p> <p>On Friday Leoni, Estelle and I headed to Llandrindod for NUS Wales Conference. Over the two days that we were there motions were proposed, Lleu Williams was elected as Deputy President and Katie Dalton as President. A variety of motions ranged from gender balanced delegations to trustee training for Welsh sabbaticals and executives from NUS Wales.</p> <p>I am extremely proud to say that i was elected to the office of Welsh National Executive Committee – Higher Education Rep alongside Tom Hecht from Bangor Students Union.</p> <p>On the final day of the conference Wes Streeting (NUS National President), Aaron Porter (NUS VP Higher Education), Beth Walker (NUS VP Further Education) and Ben Whittaker (NUS NEC) all gave a variety of speeches regarding the future of NUS. It was an enjoyable and informative time – bring on Annual!!!</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/2557_523349993154_289300834_1857279_4593958_n/3446087" title="2557_523349993154_289300834_1857279_4593958_n"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/087/3446087_c7cd424583_s.jpeg" alt="2557_523349993154_289300834_1857279_4593958_n" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/blog-02-03-democracy-representation-and-polar-bears-6007759/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/26/blog-02-03-democracy-representation-and-polar-bears-6007759/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/25/blog-23-02-community-and-culture-6007581/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-04-25:/2009/04/25/blog-23-02-community-and-culture-6007581/Sat, 25 Apr 2009 23:31:53 +0200 <p>On Monday i met with Rhys Dart (Regional Development and Training Officer -NUS Wales) and Scott Farmer (Interim Director - Nus Wales). It was a really positive meeting and a great chance to work with Scott during his interim term helping move NUS Wales forward.</p> <p>In the afternoon Simon Darvill and myself attended the University and local residents forum. We were extremely pleased with our highly positive report and plan for community procedures - even if the acronym is not the best Community Residents Action Plan !<br> We also made progress alongside the University on a planned "tenants poster" showing both rights and responsibilites for all students living in private sector accommodation.</p> <p>On Tuesday and Wednesday I attended a mental health first aid course along with a variety of staff members from throughout the University. Mental Health First Aid is an ambitious new project, funded by the Welsh Assembly Government, designed to train trainers to teach Mental Health First Aid throughout Wales.<br> The course does not train you to be a therapist, counsellor or mental health professional, but rather; </p> <p> * give initial help to someone experiencing a mental health problem<br> * deal with a crisis situation or the first signs of someone developing mental ill health<br> * guide people towards appropriate help</p> <p>The course was absolutely brilliant, a really productive opportunity to understand a variety of issues relating to Mental Health. Much like a regular first aid course it is aimed at preserving life and promote recovery. If you are interested in finding out more visit;</p> <p><a href="http://www.mhfa-wales.org.uk/">http://www.mhfa-wales.org.uk/</a></p> <p>This week was Isoc's (Swansea University's Islamic Society) Islamic Awareness Week , and an excellent one at that. With Mosque and Executive Officer VRSA Mahaboob Basha heading up a number of meet and greets, i was lucky enough to have a number of fantastic opportunities to understand more about Islamic Culture and Swansea Universities Muslim Community.<br> On Friday i was invited to speak following the regular prayer session to the Swansea Muslim Community. It was a great opportunity to meet a variety of students and i really had my eyes opened. What i started to realise was that virtually every Islamic student, regardless of their home country (Libya, Saudi Arabia, India etc) had come to study, and more importantly felt at home in Swansea due to the fantastic Muslim community already here. Our primary aim as a Students Union is to ensure that students are supported and cared for throughout their time at Swansea. Through a variety of Welfare campaigns, services and procedures we attempt to further this aim. Thankfully we don’t do this alone whether its Student Support Services or a Personal Tutor there are a huge variety of ways that students are supported. What is fantastic is that the Mosque is a massive support network alongside these others, supporting a variety of different students from so many different backgrounds.</p> <p>On Friday night i attended the Malasian Societies Night in the Taliesin with General Secretary Luke Young. The night was designed to help people understand the diverse history and culture within Malasia. It was a great night, even if both Luke and I shamed ourselves with some “Interesting” Bollywood dancing on stage! – many thanks Akash!!!!!<br> On Saturday we began the elections graft as i managed, alongside Deputy X-treme Station Manager Ben Shaw, to get 2/3rds of the sabbatical candidates in to the radio studios to record their manifestos, reasons for voting and of course their campaign songs – oh if only the elections were won on songs rather than slogans!!!!</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/isoc_picture/3445937" title="isoc picture"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/937/3445937_a5a09944de_s.jpeg" alt="isoc picture" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/25/blog-23-02-community-and-culture-6007581/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/04/25/blog-23-02-community-and-culture-6007581/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/03/01/blog-16-02-a-working-group-fix-5673600/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-03-01:/2009/03/01/blog-16-02-a-working-group-fix-5673600/Sun, 01 Mar 2009 20:04:38 +0100 <p>This week was a bit of a slow starter but as usual the pace soon escalated!!!</p> <p>Much of the early part of the week was taken up with meetings with some of our excellent support staff. From Edy our Campaigns advisor to Dave from the waterfront we really are blessed with an excellent bunch of staff here at the Union, who consistently have brought new ideas alongside an element of consistency ensuring campaigns and representation can grow throughout the University.</p> <p>Alongside this Ross and i had some more great fun in lectures promoting the NSS, my particular favourite being where i left the lecture sharpish after the lecturer arrived - meanwhile Ross was still flyering the students!!</p> <p>On wednesday i got my much needed fix of working groups!!! First we kicked off with an excellent campus development discussion, where suggestions ranged from how to get students involved to ensuring environmental sustainability.</p> <p>Following this we met with the final elections working group before we kick off on the 5th! Some awesome suggestions came up regarding the candidate question time, and also about general promotion.<br> The key thing that was raised was that the Union MUST promote why people should care about the elections - highlighting the breadth of what the Union. Its so rare to be in such a big organisation where you really have a massive amount of control. Students really can impact on what the Union does and where it goes - the sabbatical elections are one of the most crucial parts of it!</p> <p>A key issue that i have been working on this week is issues surrounding building work going on within the new buildings. On Thursday night we had a fantastic opportunity to meet with a number of students from the halls and hopefully give them a voice. It was an excellent opportunity for us as officers to really grab the bull by the horns on a issue that students are really being directly affected. But more importantly to me was that the students were so uplifted by the fact that people were taking their issue on - its what we are here for and to be a part of that support network is a real honour.</p> <p>On Friday the all wales convention rolled into town, asking students who should decide the laws that affect you daily here in Wales - Westminster or Cardiff? Parliament or the Senedd?</p> <p>In 2007 the Assembly set up the "All Wales Convention" to see what welsh people thought.</p> <p>They are going around Wales guaging public opinion on whether Wales have a more powerful assembly, more like the Scottish Parliament? Its other key aim is to explain the present system of powers available to the assembly.</p> <p>At the helm of the legendary diplomat Sir Emyr Jones Parry, who served within the EU, Nato and UN, the all Wales convention is coming to Swansea.</p> <p>It was a fantastic event and it was a real pleasure to meet Sir Emyr who did a great job of starting a good debate. There was a variety of opinions, in particular concerns were raised about whether we are moving towards a divided isle, yet we are so similar?</p> <p>Friday evening a number of us went down to Bristol to support the "reclaim the night" march. Since 2004 the London Feminist Network numerous women have marched throughout the UK to say no to rape and male violence and demand justice for survivors. The UK rape conviction rate is still at its lowest ever, just over 5%. As a key supporter of the womens campaign it was crucial that Swansea Union represented to say enough is enough — to put their feet on the streets for women’s rights and take back the night.</p> <p>On our return Luke, Estelle and I made our way back to the Union alongside Adam Bruce Smith to SSSH some students!!!</p> <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/n289300834_1849692_3377249/3278422" title="n289300834_1849692_3377249"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/422/3278422_967f9354b9_s.jpeg" alt="n289300834_1849692_3377249" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/03/01/blog-16-02-a-working-group-fix-5673600/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/03/01/blog-16-02-a-working-group-fix-5673600/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/blog-09-02-why-you-wouldn-t-want-to-take-leoni-on-5593051/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-02-17:/2009/02/17/blog-09-02-why-you-wouldn-t-want-to-take-leoni-on-5593051/Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:13:54 +0100 <p>Wow – I actually cant believe I have finally caught up on the blog! I must thank First Great Western for their unending encouragement whilst I sit on a variety of their trains! Up until recently I knew it was important to write my blog but this week really has proved it, let me explain….</p> <p>Over the weekend I have been poring over this small screen attempting to write up my report for the Annual General Meeting on Monday. Whilst I love my role as chair of the trustees board this task has certainly been one to test me! I think the hardest thing is that I have to write a report on the financial year 2007-2008 (July to July) and I only came into post in July 2008! </p> <p>To be fair I have had the benefit of having sat on the executive last year and thus I held an active role during this time, but it didn’t make it any easier!!!</p> <p>So if I may I’ll outline what I said on the night!</p> <p>Swansea University Students’ Union is run by students for students. All of our services are offered either free or at the lowest cost possible, in order to ensure students get the best possible experience they can.</p> <p>Our Vision is to be progressive, supportive, encouraging, influential campaigning union – what a mouthful! </p> <p>The key is that our mission as a Union is to represent you and your fellow students here at Swansea. This can be in ensuring that the University consults and takes note of student opinion when initiating changes, and also ensuring that the University takes notice when things are not going right. Student involvement is at the forefront of this –whether you are a course rep or simply filled in the Omnibus survey your views are to be represented.</p> <p>Representation is wider than that and can encompass everything from your local community to national student issues such as top up fees and Graduate employability. As a Union we are here to represent you on these issues alongside our colleagues in Wales and nationally through the National Union of Students.</p> <p>Our other key role is to further the so called “softer” side of your education here at Swansea. This is quite simply ensuring that you leave Swansea with a variety of skills and experience, not just those gained through your degree scheme. This is primarily encompassed in our wide variety of societies across campus. From religious encouragement and awareness to social action, our societies provide an unrivalled service in making students people who will shape the world when they leave University.</p> <p>In ensuring that you gain the most from your University experience Welfare services play a crucial role. In our Advice centre for example, three trained and experienced advisers supported by an administrator, are available to give advice in person, or by phone, letter or email, on a wide variety of issues. We help students for example, to manage their debts, sort out their housing problems with their landlords, manage their finances, apply for extra funds, negotiate with traders over consumer problems, and employers over problems at work. In addition, as we are independent; we are the only source of support for students who have issues with the university itself like Unfair Practice, a complaint, or who wish to appeal an academic decision. A lot of our time is spent on these academic issues.</p> <p>Alongside this we offer a wide variety of services to students at Swansea, some of which are free and some which turn a small profit.<br> It is highly important to us—and we consistently attempt to convey to our members that the Union is Student Run, Student Led—with all profits to students. From Just Coffee in Union House to Woodys Bar in the Student Village, SAS lettings service to the launderette – all of our services are run to support your life here at Swansea. By keeping profit margins low and ensuring that all that money goes back to students we can remain fair, competitive and appealing.</p> <p>To ensure that we remain on track it is vital that we have core values to which we adhere to. These are </p> <p>Democracy<br> Non -Discriminatory<br> Democratic and representative<br> Accountable<br> Ethical and green<br> Innovative<br> Value for money</p> <p>Democracy is at the forefront of these values, without it the Union would be worthless, unrepresentative, powerless and not to mention illegal! We are a student run and student led organisation and therefore our direction comes from our members – you the students.</p> <p>We regularly promote our motto; “Your Union, Your Experience”<br> It is of the utmost importance to us that our members are involved and active. We have numerous opportunities for people to “Stand up and Speak out” from our Student General Meetings to our Course Reps Assemblies. </p> <p>The student body is the highest decision making group within the Union. From motions mandating sabbaticals to look into drink safety, motions to ban sales of products or even the removal of a sabbatical trustee – these are all in the hands of the student body.</p> <p>Our services are constantly under review, primarily as to how to make them better but also whether they are still required and if our members want something different.</p> <p>So 2007 to 2008 in review – how did we do?</p> <p>In 2007 we underwent a vast governance review. Our constitution is our legal document which sets out our roles, procedures, structures and rules. In recent years our constitution had constrained us and in some areas left us dangerously vulnerable.</p> <p>With some fantastic direction, particularly from Nick Cooper, Luke Young and Stuart Rice, the governance review was actioned and completed within the year. Students were encouraged to take part in the review, and the University set up a special committee to work with us on the final document.</p> <p>The key change in our constitution is as follows<br> • Trustee Responsibility – in registering as a charity we are legally required to have trustees who “have the final say” this has always traditionally been your elected sabbatical officers.<br> • However in recent years unfounded allegations have been levelled at sabbaticals regarding financial control of the Union and most importantly their understanding of their legal roles and responsibilities.<br> • In come - External Trustees- these will be three people selected by an appointments committee of current trustees and then hopefully accepted by the student body here at the SGM.<br> • Do we need them? Well these people will bring experience that sabbaticals perhaps cannot. Years of experience within financial areas, legal experience or most importantly charitable experience. But alongside this these people will bring increased credibility and support to the charity. They will often be well respected people who due to their experience will encourage a stronger, more conscious Union.</p> <p>• Surely Student power will be diluted? Well there is of course an argument there. However the power still remains in the hands of the student body – it is the students who suggest direction, make policy and challenge sabbaticals. The trustee board can only veto policy if they feel it brings significant financial, legal or reputational risk to the Union. Also there will only be three external trustees selected and ratified by students. There will still be six elected sabbatical trustees and the President will remain as chair of the board, with carrying vote.</p> <p>• At the end of the day these people will be people who believe in the Union, believe in students and most of all want to be of use and help the Union. We hope that through good selection and adequate involvement these trustees will bring a vast amount of security and support to the Union in their terms of office.</p> <p>So enough about the politics its time to party!<br> In 2007 – 2008 we put on a whole host of awesome events from the first ever snow ball on campus, to fresh and free an event exclusively for freshers. We increased the massive amount of acts available in sin city, alongside NME club status making us an official live music venue in Swansea. From Zane Lowe to One Night only, Alphabeat to Pendulum we have offered a wide spectrum of music.</p> <p>We also signed a new contract with Luminar and Oceana for their brand new £3 million refurbished venue which has gone down a storm with students. Our continued good relationship with the Luminar group has continued to encourage big nights whilst also funding specialist events such as the society awards and the xtreme 40th birthday party.</p> <p>As a campaigning Union we tackled a number of key issues last year, not least increased library access. Through excellent research and diplomacy with the University, Chugga was able to secure extended access for the January and Summer periods.<br> It feels pertinent to then move on to student safety which was a key issue tackled by the Union last year – from “people trains” walking students back late at night after working in the library to the fantastic safety awareness weeks student perceptions on their own safety and the reality that the Union was on the ground looking out for them became clear. Nel Richards also held some fantastic self defence sessions as part of her effort to increase welfare and safety for female students.</p> <p>Danielle Dixon did a fantastic job last year as disability officer for the Union and alongside Nel looked at a number of ways to increase accessibility across campus. Not least looking at the Union itself and its processes </p> <p>Accommodation is and continues to be a key issues for students here within Swansea. Nick worked alongside the University last year to increase student feedback on accommodation in the Village. Whilst in my role as Accommodation Officer I challenged students to leek on their landlord and not to panic. I feel that</p> <p>From an education point of view we had a massive response rate to the NSS, there was a 70% response rate to NSS 2008 (which was an improvement from 61% rate to NSS 2007) with an average sector response of 64%. The Student Satisfaction Survey had a response rate of 9.3% (1287) which was an improvement on the last three years response rate. Owens excellent idea of a “feedback lounge” – in Fulton House was picked as best practice through NUS and we have been inundated with calls from other Unions regarding our experience.</p> <p>Alongside this Student Written Submission was made and the officers were actively involved in the QAA audit. Chugga was also able to secure accreditation with the University for our course representatives and alongside John Follett the program is increasing extremely healthily.</p> <p>So on to Welfare – Our advice centre received well over 900 client contacts - up 6.6% from 2006- 2007. Alongside this the demand has grown so much that we have employed a new member of staff with particular experience of substance abuse and mental health issues.</p> <p>Our Nursery was built and achieved registration allowing it to open in Feb 2008. There has been an increase in interest in the service but most importantly staff and parents feel more comfortable and happy with their new surroundings.</p> <p>SAS Lettings has continued to make a successful impact upon the community with increasing student and landlord interest. Something which we hope will increase even more in its new base in Fulton House.</p> <p>Niche opened its doors in Feb 2008. Financial performance has shown steady and improving growth in sales across the remainder of the academic year. Interest from a wide range of students not just internationals, has increased and it has solidified the Unions dedication to achieve environmental and ethical impact.</p> <p>So the Future! – We are in challenging times, but I also believe these are times where opportunities, influence and engagement will increase.</p> <p>In times of Financial instability students come back to their Union – why? Because as our mission states we aim to be value for money for our members! From increased discounts, deals, offers, opportunities and support we can be there as a “reasonably priced friend” to students at Swansea University. It is our job to ensure that we make your student pound go further whether that’s the price of a pint in the bars or the level of free advice and support we offer, our members will hopefully value the Union much more during this time.</p> <p>Alongside this as the University looks at Campus development and expansion we are at a crucial time when the Union must be researching and representing (thankyou John Follett!) ensuring that the student opinion is at the core of developments. If we fail to do so then students will lose out and ultimately so will the University – therefore it is CRUCIAL that we progress alongside the University and ensure Swansea University increases and flourishes in its educational and welfare opportunities for students.</p> <p>With the big dog behind me I could get back on with meetings, meetings and more meetings! To maintain my sanity Ross and I utilised any excess time we had to pop into third year lectures and generally harass them about the National Student Survey – <a href="http://www.thestudentsurvey.com">www.thestudentsurvey.com</a> </p> <p>Amongst all this madness the sabbatical polls closed!!! With 20 candidates standing and an amazing range of candidates in each category my faith in the process was once again restored – keep your eyes peeled on <a href="http://www.changeswansea.com">www.changeswansea.com</a> over the next few weeks as the campaign trail rolls into town!!!</p> <p>This week has also been the week of the quizzes – from both the Xtreme and Erasmus societies. Alongside Ben Davey and Will Long we had great fun hosting the return of “It box live” with a variety of weird and wonderful questions and of course the legendary Xtreme raffle. </p> <p>The Erasmus quiz was also excellently well attended and Katie Oliver and Jenny Barker did a great job encouraging so many Erasmus and home students to attend and work together – it was great to see a whole team of Erasmus students win the quiz beating off even the dodgy SU team!!!</p> <p>Finally on Friday I met with Simon Wright to devise a pro-forma for our current and upcoming community plans. It was a great opportunity to show how much we are doing both as a Union individually and also alongside the University to really attempt to unite students and residents and reduce problems in the community.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/n53144251207_234/3246364" title="n53144251207_234"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/364/3246364_73ac47be42_s.jpeg" alt="n53144251207_234" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/blog-09-02-why-you-wouldn-t-want-to-take-leoni-on-5593051/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/blog-09-02-why-you-wouldn-t-want-to-take-leoni-on-5593051/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/blog-02-02-sshhing-in-the-snow-5593043/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-02-17:/2009/02/17/blog-02-02-sshhing-in-the-snow-5593043/Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:12:41 +0100 <p>On Monday the National Student Survey went live, this in an opportunity for final year students to have “their say” on their experience of Higher Education and most importantly of Swansea University and their degree scheme. Last year we got around a 70 % feedback rating so we have a hard task ahead of us to take that rating up!!! This year weve gone with a kind of “on tour” theme- basically either having a stall in Fulton House where people can fill in the survey there and then on their laptops and then have the opportunity to rock out on guitar hero in front of literally tens of adoring fans!<br> Alternatively we are taking the tour to them – from department to department were going into lectures, talking to students leaving departments, gatecrashing revision sessions and interrupting hard work on facebook!</p> <p>On Tuesday the snow shut the United Kingdom down so I was forced to take the day off! It was a good opportunity to hang with the housemates and particularly because it was Adrians birthday – so we made sure we had a “few” drinks to celebrate.<br> We had been planning on going to Cardiff to meet with Education AM – Jane Hutt, sadly our delegation – and a number of the NEC were unable to make it. However I think those that did manage to did us proud!</p> <p>On Wednesday we held a Higher education review session with members of NUS Wales NEC and delegates from the Assembly’s review group. It was a great opportunity for a number of students from Swansea, Swansea Met (and even a very dedicated President from Aber!) to really put their points across regarding their experience of Higher Education. Everything from funding to freshers week was discussed and I hope that their thoughts will be taken strongly on board by the review group.<br> I think the key thing was no-one wanted fees to increase and wanted a more sensible funding and bursary system. But alongside this they wanted the current system to be sincerely looked at, in that there are major discretions and generalisations within the current system. For example if you are a student from a separated parent base, you get your funding based purely on the amount that the parent you live with earns.<br> Now whilst this is sensible in principle in some cases students with parents who are still married are potentially severely left out. A student might only live with one parent but is still supported financially by the other – yet another students whose parents are married gets less because jointly his or her parents earn above the threshold, yet they cannot afford to support him or her as much. Is this fair? The general feeling was that the system was too black and white and did not account for the considerable grey area in students financial situations.</p> <p>On Thursday and Friday I met with a number of committees and finalised the changes to the officer titles and election schedule by meeting with University representatives.</p> <p>Friday night was by far the highlight of my week though! I returned to campus at around midnight just as it began to snow. Then Luke Young, Alison Pritchard and Adam Bruce Smith drifted in to the offices for a cup of tea before we made our way out to do the SSHH campaign. Impressively the lights were actually broken in Singleton Park, but the full moon reflecting on the snow drift gave an odd brightness to the evening. It was another good campaign with some awesome students out and some good banter – it’s a bad precedent that’s been set now though students literally expect our little luminous brigade with our mass of lollipops!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/nss2009_banner_english_v1/3246349" title="nss2009_banner_english_v1"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/349/3246349_e9bf410b53_s.gif" alt="nss2009_banner_english_v1" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/blog-02-02-sshhing-in-the-snow-5593043/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/blog-02-02-sshhing-in-the-snow-5593043/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/on-monday-andy-held-the-annual-su-society-refreshers-fayre-5593041/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-02-17:/2009/02/17/on-monday-andy-held-the-annual-su-society-refreshers-fayre-5593041/Tue, 17 Feb 2009 14:12:09 +0100 <p>On Monday Andy held the annual SU society refreshers fayre, another great opportunity for students to get involved in things that interest them and make new friends.</p> <p>Over the weekend I had the opportunity to compile some further research that we had previously done with students regarding campus development. Myself and a couple of the exec had gone out and asked a few students regarding their perceptions of the library and how they would like it to be better. We showed students pictures of other Universities buildings and what they liked and didn’t. My plan is to roll this out across a variety of different areas alongside the campus development working group.<br> I took this information to the student experience working group and soon found myself tasked with a variety of things! I certainly didn’t think that it was a small job representing 13,000 students on a development like this – but boy is it a big job – however I’m certainly getting the most out of my research experience from my degree!</p> <p>That night we had our first exec meeting back of the term – interesting would be an understatement. Following the decision of the executive and student body (SGM) we took forward the name change from Treasurer to Societies and services officer. However there was a split on the board and thus the decision came back to the executive – who were less than impressed. The key argument is based around whether the name change puts the Union at significant financial risk, i.e. that by changing the name you would get candidates running for the post with no administrative or financial experience or interest.</p> <p>I personally disagree with this argument – in my opinion the name change encourages greater interest in the position. The role is focused around supporting and advising societies and also ensuring that our services are remaining linked to our mission i.e. ensuring they support the social and welfare opportunities for our members.</p> <p>All sabbaticals are responsible for the financial and legal aspects of the Union as elected trustees. However the Treasurer has always had a day to day link to the finance department and financial roles – i.e. invoices, society expenditure etc. This is obviously an important role – however all sabbaticals are allowed to and expected to sign the appropriate expenditure. By pinpointing one officer to be more financially focused I believe you encourage the officer officers to delegate their responsibility. Having sat on executive committees where the financial status of the Union has been challenged, I have seen the unfair attacks launched solely at the Treasurer – when all sabbaticals are responsible.</p> <p>No candidate for the position requires prior experience of finances, accounting or financial management this is offered by the excellent finance department. What they do need is a passion for students, a willingness to work hard on the monotonous paper based side of the job and most importantly respect and uphold their position as trustee of the Union charity.</p> <p>As you can imagine the exec were less than happy and unfortunately only Andy was able to attend therefore Andy was left to take the brunt of it. I hope that we can come to an agreement which ensures Union accessibility, viability and security.</p> <p>You may have noticed in this weeks waterfront there is a suggestion that I don’t take the role of sabbatical officer seriously due to my all student email last week advertising it to students as a “Gap year in Swansea”, whilst I think the article does justice to both sides I feel it is important to put my view up here.</p> <p>The email makes it quite clear that there are serious aspects to the job - Be a trustee over nearly £4 million, The chance to represent 12,000 students. But it does it in a way and in language that is accessible to every student – in language that will make them think about it, look deeper and hopefully engage more with the process regardless of whether they intend to run for the job or not.</p> <p>I understand the queries regarding the style and obviously the use of the word “gap year”. The aspects of the gap year are in fact to the relation of looking at the job as a years opportunity to do something beyond the normal and to make a difference In everything that you do. When a student goes to a village in Kampala in the Uganda to build a school, or to care for patients in a hospital is that normal? Do they make a difference? </p> <p>Of course they do! But is it a long term fix – no, will their work, service and care live on – of course it will. In everything they do and in everything we do here in this job we aim to leave a legacy not just for the Union but for the students – I want students to walk away from this Union remembering the Union and how good it was for them – not me – I’m not here to glorify the role of president, I’ m here to represent, to encourage and to change.</p> <p>On Tuesday I made my way into town to meet with the Council and community stakeholders regarding community relations within the city. It was extremely interesting but the most interesting part was the opportunity to network with a variety of local residents and representatives of local resident groups and community programs. At current Simon Darvill and I are working on a plan to hold a “community awards night” on campus giving awards to a variety of groups from best landlord to friendliest neighbour.</p> <p>That afternoon I met with Shona, Stuart and Russ to discuss ways forward regarding the new election schedule. These are the rules and regulations that govern the candidates and election process in general. The elections working group looked at the current schedule and made a variety of recommendations from formalising an NUS representative in attendance at the process and also rules around e-campaigning which was previously banned.<br> Whilst we made some changes others were deemed unworkable – whilst I was a little disappointed I agreed with the final decision and just hope that future elections working groups will review and encourage further processes.</p> <p>Wednesday evening I was asked to attend a disappointing meeting, one of our societies had called a motion of no-confidence in one of their executive. Sadly the process was dragged out – not helpful in a situation which is extremely upsetting and demeaning for some people. Finally we reached the motion which I was asked to chair – I feel that both members were able to get their point across its just a shame that it had to come to this.</p> <p>The next morning we met to pass the resolutions regarding officer title changes and the elections schedule. Despite the flare up and passionate objections from both sabbaticals and executive I appreciate the fact that we managed to come to a decision which I believe the Union will appreciate long term, and a decision that regardless of each individuals opinion we were able to accept and move on to the important work we were elected to do.</p> <p>Thursday was also our nominations opening date – the big day had finally come!!! From 12.00 numerous people popped into the General office to grab their forms and begin their journey along the campaign trail!!!</p> <p>In the afternoon I went along with Richard Lancaster and a number of students to meet with marketing and discuss the new prospectus. It was a great opportunity to be a part of something that really makes a huge impact on prospective students. It was good to be of use as well in the area and have a positive impact on the layout and design of the prospectus.</p> <p>Later that afternoon I met with the legendary Rhys Dart –regional development officer from NUS Wales. It was nice to get off site and have a chat through the last six months and things I still want to work on and achieve. Development officers are just another amazing value for money aspect of NUS – without many of the staff in NUS but particularly Rhys, I would have been stumped on numerous issues and also are excellent resources and sounding boards.</p> <p>My week ended with a mountain of paperwork to work through but then an AWESOME night at the silent disco on Saturday. A friend of mine came up from back home and was a little sceptical but with two channels and two awesome DJ’s it was a rave up!!!!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/n53144251207_234/3246341" title="n53144251207_234"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/341/3246341_4b84ba3841_s.jpeg" alt="n53144251207_234" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/on-monday-andy-held-the-annual-su-society-refreshers-fayre-5593041/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/17/on-monday-andy-held-the-annual-su-society-refreshers-fayre-5593041/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/14/blog-19-01-new-term-new-nus-5571866/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-02-14:/2009/02/14/blog-19-01-new-term-new-nus-5571866/Sat, 14 Feb 2009 12:06:13 +0100 <p>Whilst I’ve been back in work for two weeks now there hasn’t really been anything beyond the normal to report. Besides you all have exams so I didn’t want to give you too much distraction!</p> <p>On Monday I met with a number of potential candidates for this years elections, each with their own valid experience, passions and of course questions! Over the Christmas period I have to be honest I debated my wholehearted decision not to re-run. Because I had always set it in stone I’d managed to push away the temptations to re-run. With time away from the Union and nominations looming it was hard not to even ponder! I knew I could bring more to the role and I still had stuff to give, besides the process would weed me out if the other candidates would bring more to the role.</p> <p>But then I thought- is there anything that I want to do next year that someone else couldn’t? If I believed in what I’d said in the last year surely handover was the key to unlocking potential?</p> <p>It was a hard decision not to run, I love my job and the immense opportunities it gives me. However I’ve always stood against the idea of second year sabbs, in that I believe they can stunt potential growth from below. Besides I was too excited about the election process anyway!!</p> <p>In the afternoon I met with a representative from push.co.uk the “ruthlessly independent university comparison site”. It was a good opportunity to continue to get across the excellent student experience we have here in Swansea, from live music to societies Swansea continues to have LOADS to offer!</p> <p>That evening we drove up to Wolverhampton ready for Extraordinary conference “deux”. This time we were taking Will Long to observe the process and see what he thought of it all and then write it up for the waterfront. We made our way up and after a particularly interesting nandos session with some delegates from Sussex we went back to the delightful Britannia hotel for some banter before bed!</p> <p>The next day there was a real buzz, a real opportunity to make a difference and in doing so ensure NUS can make a difference. What ensued was a passionate debate from both sides, however (and im sure I will be accused of bias here) I genuinely believe that the anti- reform arguments stood for nothing. They drew in the Gaza occupation as an issue – but is that really an issue to not vote reform? The Gaza conflict is a vast issue, one that commands a peaceful, united student body to call for an end and for a viable peace. But to say that the reform going through would hamper that is complete and utter bollocks.</p> <p>If anything with a reformed NUS issues like that can be responded to effectively and appropriately – rather than the shameful display of “activism” displayed by Union delegates and most shamefully NEC officers. At the end of the conference around fifty delegates stormed the stage to protest against NUS’s lack of action on the Gaza issue (AKA attempt to stall democracy because this time it was against them and delegates were clearly going to vote for reform!). I believe in passionate campaigning but I believe in doing so in a way that is firm and fair – not offensive and discriminatory. How dare members of our national executive tell me a student officer that NUS was offensive and uncaring because they had not acted on the Gaza issue when they ranted and raved on stage upsetting and discriminating against Jewish delegates. How dare members of our NEC accuse NUS of usurping democracy with their new constitution when they attempted to stall a democratic vote by taking conference stage. </p> <p>As I left I heard one of these delegates say “well we did well I think, there was a good few “no” voters on this side”. Clearly these delegates had lost touch even more than I had originally thought! I truly believe that before they stormed the stage a larger number of delegates might have voted against reform or abstained. But once they had usurped the very democracy we were fighting for I believe these peoples opinions changed as they refused to be bullied into voting against reform.</p> <p>Anyhoo! So reform passed and with a whopping majority! Now its up to the NEC to take things forward and make NUS the national body that black, white, mature, part-time, FE, HE postgraduate, undergraduate, female, male, gay, straight, welsh, Scottish, northern irish and English students deserve!</p> <p>On Thursday I met with our brand new Welsh Affairs Officer – V.R.S.A. Mahaboob Basha. A fantastic addition to the team, once a diplomat in the Indian government now a postgraduate student at the University the man is a legend! With four or five languages under his belt and a growing understanding of Welsh and a real love for Welsh culture Mahaboob will be an excellent officer on the executive.</p> <p>In the afternoon I was involved in the Princes Foundation “Charette” regarding the Campus Expansion programme. A charette is an opportunity for developers, partners and designers to meet with key stakeholders and work through specific ideas and issues – crudely a kind of giant brainstorm programme! It was an excellent opportunity to see some of the ideas raised and have a real input for students on an immensely forward-thinking programme.<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/n53144251207_234/3246338" title="n53144251207_234"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/338/3246338_c2ac745cd7_s.jpeg" alt="n53144251207_234" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/14/blog-19-01-new-term-new-nus-5571866/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/14/blog-19-01-new-term-new-nus-5571866/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/07/blog-08-12-tis-the-season-to-be-jolly-5522529/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-02-06:/2009/02/07/blog-08-12-tis-the-season-to-be-jolly-5522529/Sat, 07 Feb 2009 00:54:02 +0100 <p>After a busy morning of meetings I made my way across campus to begin assisting on the student experience development for the University. It was a highly exciting group to be a part of; with a remit of “student experience” you can imagine the wide range of discussion.</p> <p>Our key role is to look at current positives, negatives, frustrations with the Singleton Campus and work towards making recommendations on developing both the Singleton estate and any potential second campus position. From discussions around the student learning experience to service provision across campuses, there is a wide opportunity for student opinion to be raised. That task falls primarily upon my head- an exciting yet rather daunting assignment!</p> <p>On Tuesday the Community Carol Concert took place, it was a great evening to get people in the festive spirit with hot chocolate and mince pies to warm us! However the bitter wind did put a slight dampener on the event and I’m not convinced that my dinner guests Luke and Estelle were too chuffed with the invite! Hopefully the food went down a little better!</p> <p>On Wednesday I met with Rhys Dart our regional development officer from NUS Wales to discuss our move towards having a limited trading company and election changes. One of the biggest advantages to NUS is the amazing support on offer from their development officers – many of whom are former sabbs who have gone on to excel in a variety of areas affecting Unions across the country.</p> <p>In the afternoon we met with the Waterfront team to work towards ways of ensuring that the papers circulation increases. The waterfront has an amazing group of writers with a vast range of talent, and it would be a real shame to see that talent not being taken out to the students more. However having experience from Xtreme, which differs from the Waterfront in its society status, it is clear to see that the Waterfront is minorly damaged by this position. A society is built or lost upon its members, without their support, encouragement, input and crucially faith in their executive societies will fail. Xtreme has always been well promoted when its members buy into truly, from dj’s designing their own posters, setting up individual facebook groups and most importantly sharing their experiences through word of mouth they build a kind of rent a crowd for the station. On top of this a strong promotion team built up of students who are involved in the society ensures that other students become more interested and advertising truly comes from the heart.</p> <p>Waterfront does not, as yet have this and until it does I still believe it will struggle to gain the interest it truly deserves. I also believe that increased links between the radio station and the paper can only go further to increase both entities reputations and student talent.</p> <p>On Thursday Hash returned to the Union to prepare the way for our training programme in partnership with Afan FM. A number of students attended (not least for the mince pies) and were incredibly keen to get on board with the programme. </p> <p>The last few days that the Union was open were very much taken up with finishing off a variety of projects. However the most interesting part was our Appointments committee meetings where we met with a number of University councillors who had put themselves forward to become co-opted trustees of the students Union. It was a fantastic opportunity to see the passion that a number of people had for the Union and a desire to assist and support it in its valuable work. An excellent end to the term!!!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dsc00023/3210541" title="DSC00023"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/541/3210541_41858c1099_s.jpeg" alt="DSC00023" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/07/blog-08-12-tis-the-season-to-be-jolly-5522529/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/07/blog-08-12-tis-the-season-to-be-jolly-5522529/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/07/blog-01-12-world-aids-day-geography-madness-and-visitors-from-japan-5522365/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-02-06:/2009/02/07/blog-01-12-world-aids-day-geography-madness-and-visitors-from-japan-5522365/Sat, 07 Feb 2009 00:10:00 +0100 <p>The first of December was world Aids Day, it was a great opportunity to see our societies taking charge of a highly important issue. The LGBT and Afro-Carribean societies ran an excellent stall in Fulton House raising both money and awareness for the fantastic work that is going on in the UK and internationally to support those with AIDS.</p> <p>I spent much of the day taking another tour of the Unions services for University Council members. It was another great opportunity to meet the amazing people who have devoted their energy and time to the University and furthering its objectives for students. Once again we had a real raft of experience and a real interest in the Union and what it is trying to do.</p> <p>That evening Luke and I made our way to the Geography societies Christmas social. We were the only non-members there but we felt more than at home. Society events like the ball are great to attend as they highlight the amazing work going on to encourage students to make the most of their time at Swansea in meeting new people from your course and across campus. Well done again to the Geography guys – and we hope we didn’t bring too much shame to the Union with our quiz answers!!!</p> <p>On Tuesday I met with a number of members of the Universities Campus Development working group. It was a great opportunity to begin to understand the developments within the University both regarding the Singleton estate and any also any potential new sites. I had concerns that student opinion might be left by the wayside as financial concerns and pressures became more important. I am more<br> than pleased to say – I was wrong! It is clear that student opinion is at the forefront of the managements mind and our suggestion of a Union student opinion group was highly encouraged.</p> <p>In the evening we had our final Student General Meeting of the term. A number of motions came to the meeting from union retail pricing to officer titles, national motions to local mandates. It was an extremely well turned out SGM but I still feel that much more can and must be done if student opinion is to remain at the very centre of our democracy. I am committed to encouraging a stronger, more passionate Union general meeting – whether that means changing the time, adjusting the structure – or just simply increasing the food supply it must get done and it will get done!</p> <p>One excellent change was the use of a question box, where students could place anonymous questions in to be asked to the officers. This is just one of the simple yet effective changes designed to put power back in the hands of the students at this Union.</p> <p>On Wednesday I mad my way over to the Staff Development Unit to increase my disability awareness training. It was a highly interesting seminar which challenged me to look particularly at how accessible our electronic communication is as a Union. Over my three years both working at the Union, within societies and in youthwork I have had my eyes opened to the issues surrounding disability. I have always attempted to put accessibility first, however it is such a wide ranging issue that it is vital that officers, staff and students are constantly aware of their obligations.</p> <p>Later we met with a number of lecturers from a Technology college in Japan, who were touring a number of student Unions around the UK. Their aim was to understand and engage with student radio stations such as our very own X-treme Radio, in order that they can take back their experience and elements of best practice in order to set up their very own station back in Japan.</p> <p>It was a really exciting opportunity to show off something that we members can sometimes get a little frustrated with. When academics from another university travel thousands of miles to see our little station, because of what they had heard on the internet it really fills you with pride and faith. Xtreme is at a very exciting time as their talent continues to grow and thus as does their respect, this was another great opportunity to encourage Xtreme’s members.</p> <p>On Thursday I met with a number of students throughout the day to talk through any questions, thoughts or worries regarding standing for a sabbatical position. It was a really positive opportunity to encourage students who more than anything wanted to give something back to their University.</p> <p>That evening with the support of a crack team of students we made our way around Brynmill to advertise the annual carol concert in St Helens cricket ground. With the Christian Union becoming a society this year it gave us an excellent opportunity to work together and adjust the event to become more community orientated. A great opportunity to bring students and residents together in their community.<br> The response, particularly from students was highly positive, many of whom were keen to get into the festive spirit before they made their way home for the break.</p> <p>On Friday we made our way up to Swansea Met for an excellent training event from NUS Wales Womens Officer Katie Dalton, regarding Domestic Violence. Sadly Leoni was unable to make the event due to illness, but I believe that Andy and myself got more out of the event than perhaps she would have. The event was focused around ensuring student officers took seriously the potential for Domestic Violence within their institutions. This is something clearly at the forefront of Womens’ officers remit, however Presidents, Treasurers, Education Officers etc can often be prone to isolationism and an event such as this one was an excellent one to challenge perceptions<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dsc00002/3210481" title="DSC00002"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/481/3210481_13d3dc49ab_s.jpeg" alt="DSC00002" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/07/blog-01-12-world-aids-day-geography-madness-and-visitors-from-japan-5522365/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/07/blog-01-12-world-aids-day-geography-madness-and-visitors-from-japan-5522365/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/03/blog-24-11-happy-40th-xtreme-40-years-living-the-dream-5500189/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-02-03:/2009/02/03/blog-24-11-happy-40th-xtreme-40-years-living-the-dream-5500189/Tue, 03 Feb 2009 17:38:24 +0100 <p>Following another great elections working group I made my way down to Oceana to work with Xtreme station manager Will Long on the preparations for their 40th birthday celebrations. Xtreme has brought so much to numerous students over the years and my work over the last few months attempting to find former members has done nothing to disprove this fact. </p> <p>Numerous former xtreme members have gone on to work in a variety of areas from medicine to journalism, retail to management but Xtreme has meant a vast amount to all of them. Whether in increasing their confidence or developing their talents Xtreme has helped numerous students in skills outside of their degree.</p> <p>This year Xtreme celebrates its 40th birthday and what better way to do so than holding a dinner in Oceana with Zane Lowe for an after dinner treat!!!</p> <p>The night went well despite a somewhat interesting (random) speech from former media manager Binda Singh. Zane Lowe was immense – but then who expected anything else!! Except for the slightly random mosh pit that developed when he played Noah and the Whale?</p> <p>The next evening a fantastic team joined me for some more door-knocking fun! As we made our way to a number of prior problem areas it was extremely positive to have such a keen team who genuinely wanted to meet residents and discuss their problems. At one house Will and I were invited in and offered a nightcap!!! Whoever said residents don’t like students??!!</p> <p>Leoni had planned a fantastic Domestic Violence Awareness campaign for the week and it was a real credit to the hard work she put into it. With an awareness talk with representatives from the Women’s campaign, women’s centre and sexual attack referral clinic, there was a real opportunity to understand the issues and the amazing work that goes on within the city and nationwide to tackle the problem. </p> <p>In a survey commissioned by Nus Wales and Amnesty earlier this year, four out of 10 students knew women who had been coerced or pressured into sex by their partners. </p> <p>But more worryingly a third of students surveyed felt that women were partly to blame for being raped if they were drunk.</p> <p>Earlier in the week Leoni and I had put together posters with pictures of regular Swansea students with mock bruising. A variety of slogans such as “It was my fault, I shouldn’t have been drunk”, “Domestic Violence – not a student issue” –were used in an effort to both raise awareness of the issue of Domestic Violence in general, but more importantly challenging perceptions and highlighting the reality that it is an issue that affects students as much as it does married couples. Something which Leoni did fantastically well throughout the week with excellent support from a variety of helpers.</p> <p>At the end of the week I attended a number of graduation ceremonies in the Taliesin centre – these were both for LPC (Legal Practice Course) and a variety of DACE (Department of Adult Continuing Education) courses.</p> <p>It was a really great event to attend – both because of the buzz of being on campus, but most importantly the variety of ages represented. Numerous students had overcome time constraints of children, jobs and caring responsibilities and it was really great to see so many families in attendance, whooping, dancing and cheering their extremely hard working and deserving relatives!! I particularly enjoyed the two children right at the back who attempted to start a Mexican wave as their mum received the golden handshake of the Vice Chancellor.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog_24/3201482" title="blog 24"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/482/3201482_20a0b95c62_s.jpeg" alt="blog 24" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/blog_242/3201483" title="blog 242"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/483/3201483_6e667370cd_s.jpeg" alt="blog 242" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/03/blog-24-11-happy-40th-xtreme-40-years-living-the-dream-5500189/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/02/03/blog-24-11-happy-40th-xtreme-40-years-living-the-dream-5500189/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/31/blog-17-11-enough-is-enough-5480060/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-01-31:/2009/01/31/blog-17-11-enough-is-enough-5480060/Sat, 31 Jan 2009 10:43:18 +0100 <p>Monday started with a positive discussion with a friend of mine and a former radio colleague – Hash Piperdy. Hash left a year or so ago and is now deputy station manager at Afan fm – community radio for Port Talbot. </p> <p>We discussed ways forward in building up a partnership between ourselves and Afan, giving them some of our students and our students a wealth of training and experience. We agreed a long term training plan, similar to what we had before with BBC Radio Wales.</p> <p>At our executive meeting that evening we had an excellent discussion regarding the election working groups recommendations. Most of the proposals were unanimously accepted, however there were some concerns raised about the changes to the treasurers title and also as to whether the position of international officer should be limited to international fee paying students only. At current it is open to any student registered with the university as an international student. However the argument raised was that not all international students pay international fees, and thus those who were from European countries would not have the same premise or place the same importance on the fees which continue to increase as a burden on international students.</p> <p>Much of the rest of my week was taken up with meetings with the University and a number of societies. But on Thursday myself and Morgan Rise made our way to Cardiff to meet with the Chief Constable of South Wales Police and the Archbishop of Wales and numerous stakeholders throughout Wales. The campaign was aimed at tackling the culture of binge drinking by spreading the message that “Enough is Enough”.</p> <p>As part of the campaign, people concerned about how much they drink will be invited to take a “Pledge” to cut down the amount they drink and to stop before they have had too much. They will be able to sign up to the Pledge online and carry a card to remind them of their commitment and give them support against peer pressure.</p> <p>Posters and leaflets will also be circulated to remind people of the damaging effects and huge cost binge drinking has on themselves, their families and friends and society as a whole.</p> <p>It was a highly positive meeting with an opportunity to really encourage us to look at our policies and procedures as a Union and in Wales in general.<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/001/3191112" title="001"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/112/3191112_a98befd645_s.jpeg" alt="001" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/31/blog-17-11-enough-is-enough-5480060/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/31/blog-17-11-enough-is-enough-5480060/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/31/blog-10-11-time-for-change-5479960/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-01-31:/2009/01/31/blog-10-11-time-for-change-5479960/Sat, 31 Jan 2009 10:19:19 +0100 <p>On Monday I had foolishly tried to fit in a mammoth schedule of meetings – which would have been fine had I left enough of a gap between them. Hindsight - what a wonderful thing! Anyway I did make it to all of them including a very interesting one discussing the massive improvement in crime fighting and prevention that has occurred in Swansea in the last year. The Home Office has been so impressed that it invited all agencies to their own interview to discuss how they interact with the police and other agencies, and thus hopefully gain some ideas of best practice.</p> <p>In the afternoon we met for another community forum where I was able to discuss the massive success we had with out doorknocks over the past two weeks. The great thing about this group is that it’s a real opportunity for us to work with the community rather than end up in constant argument. Everything from specific problem areas to policy direction from the environments department is discussed but you do come away feeling like we can really achieve something.</p> <p>In the late afternoon I lost a lot of political support, when I promised a free buffet at student services meet and greet and there was none! In fairness the director Simon Wright had promised it – but the exec held me to account – bloody electorate!</p> <p>That night we had an awesome time stewarding the excellently notrorious beer race. As well as playing “November, “Oscar, Bravo” on the radio! I was also official photographer and had loads of fun catching the great designs from the hungry caterpillar to a World War One Fighter Squadron!<br> Well done again to all the stewards, especially Cheryl (Lady Beer Race for RAG) who worked like real troopers that night to pull off another excellent fundraising extravaganza! We even got a special visit from el Presidente Morgan – too commando for my liking though!</p> <p>On Tuesday evening we left for Wolverhampton, ready for Extraordinary conference on the 12th of November. This conference was called by a number of Unions to discuss the new constitution that has been proposed for the National Union of Students. This event is the opportunity for the NEC to outline the proposals, explain the changes and enable a healthy debate before any decision making. The newest proposals get rid of the ineffective bodies such as National Council and increase representation for students in Further Education and after a great debate the proposals were accepted by over 80% of the elected delegates on conference floor. </p> <p>Whilst this is my first major experience of an NUS conference it was a real eye opener. Having seen the passion and fervour of both arguments it renewed my faith in student politics and challenged me to encourage my fellow students here at Swansea more. SGM’s must be student focused, student led and therefore interesting and important to students!! Its our Union and at the SGM it is our chance to represent and take control!</p> <p>On Thursday I made my way to Dan – Y – Coed Education Centre to discuss our perceptions of community safety in Swansea. Swansea has a highly effective partnership program and therefore it was difficult to suggest many issues of ways of improving but it was great to see people taking the project even further forward.</p> <p> In the evening we met with a number of key players within the community to discuss ways forward with our community action programme. We met to discuss our plans for a community week which we wish to hold in 2009 to encourage the community to take more ownership over their University within their community. We also discussed plans to work together on a number of different projects, which was highly positive and encouraging. Less arguing and more working together!!!</p> <p>On Friday following a highly positive student affairs committee where we discussed the responses to the survey regarding whether or not to invoke Swansea University degree awarding powers. It was really positive to see the University taking on board student opinion and putting it at the very heart of their plans for the future.</p> <p>In the afternoon we met for a further elections working group to discuss more changes to the elections process. It was a really positive meeting where an excellent mix of students brought signigicant suggestions from everything from e-campaigning to officer titles.</p> <p>The key recommendations were that many of the job remits were too fluid and needed tightening up in order that officers still had the flexibility so that a sabbatical can bring new ideas, but also key focus on permanent issues throughout.</p> <p>The major recommendation was regarding the office of treasurer, the working group felt that societies still feel under-represented within the Union – this could easily be resolved by ensuring that societies were in the title. </p> <p>Alongside this it was felt that the term treasurer or finance would/ does put future prospective candidates off running – many assuming that the job requires prior financial knowledge or qualifications. Therefore the term “services” more reflects the officers role – both ensuring financial and ethical stability of the unions services.</p> <p>There was also an excellent discussion about e-campaigning and e-voting, whilst no major conclusions could be made it was felt that discussions needed to be had with a wide variety of the student body regarding e-campaigning and facebook. But e-voting should be left for the executive elections in the fall.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/beer_race/3201563" title="beer race"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/563/3201563_65c13df8ca_s.jpeg" alt="beer race" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/31/blog-10-11-time-for-change-5479960/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/31/blog-10-11-time-for-change-5479960/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-03-11-recruiting-students-to-a-union-and-awards-with-radio-1-dj-s-5387840/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-01-16:/2009/01/16/blog-03-11-recruiting-students-to-a-union-and-awards-with-radio-1-dj-s-5387840/Fri, 16 Jan 2009 11:02:26 +0100 <p>On Monday morning I left at around 6am to go to Hanley Castle High School for my student recruitment mission! An interesting fact about this school in Worcester is that our wonderful womens’ officer Leoni once did country dancing here!</p> <p>Anyhoo I had meant to be taking Lance with me but due to a nasty football accident it was just me and Katie Perry singing away all the way to Worcester. I had been invited to talk to students who had put together their UCAS applications and many had made their selections. Therefore my role was to promote the non-academic opportunities available at University and the role of a students Union.</p> <p>It was great fun! An awesome opportunity to encourage prospective students to find out about student Unions at Universities, as well as their academic opportunities. Afterwards a number of students came up to talk to ask me how they would find out what societies a Union has or what services are offered by different institutions. </p> <p>On Tuesday we had an SGM with a great turnout –we made a real effort to ensure that we kept to a tight schedule so hopefully well see a good returning crowd next month!</p> <p>On Thursday Will Long, President of Xtreme and I we travelled to the indigO2 to celebrate the growing wealth of talent amongst student radio DJ’s. Alongside hosts Fearne Cotton and Scott Mills, an assortment of DJ’s from both radio one and commercial radio were on hand to present each award. Sadly X-treme was not nominated under any of the categories this year but Station Manager Will Long and I felt it was important for us to represent.</p> <p>The awards ranged from Best Specialist programming to Newcomer of the year with a wealth of talent nominated from stations from Bath to Glasgow. As the night progressed it was fantastic to see the praise given to so many students. Alongside their awards, the winners were also given excellent opportunities to work with some of the best in the business. </p> <p>This isn’t just a once in a lifetime experience, but could end up being the opportunity of the lifetime. Greg James, the host of BBC Radio 1’s breakfast show got his opportunity from winning Best Male presenter in 2005 for his work at Livewire at the University of East Anglia. Whilst Phillipa TJ, the chartshow host on BBC 6music won the Bronze Award for Best Female in 2006 for her work at University Radio Nottingham.</p> <p>Having seen so many fantastic students awarded for their work on the night it challenged myself and Will to continue to encourage the fantastic talent here at X-treme. In the past three years that I have been with X-treme it has gone from strength to strength and we have some of the most talented and passionate DJ’s on our station this year, so bring on nominations 2009!<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/dscn6481/3191066" title="DSCN6481"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/066/3191066_e3c7dbcd82_s.jpeg" alt="DSCN6481" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-03-11-recruiting-students-to-a-union-and-awards-with-radio-1-dj-s-5387840/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-03-11-recruiting-students-to-a-union-and-awards-with-radio-1-dj-s-5387840/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-27-10-does-a-hi-vis-jacket-make-safety-sexy-5387814/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-01-16:/2009/01/16/blog-27-10-does-a-hi-vis-jacket-make-safety-sexy-5387814/Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:56:49 +0100 <p>On Monday morning the Vice Chancellor held an open forum in the Taliesin with regards to potential campus developments. It was great to see staff and students leave the auditorium buzzing with excitement and anticipation.</p> <p>That evening I filled the executive committee in on the developments and informed them that I was setting up a “campus development working group” to look at ways of ensuring students voices were heard and best practice particularly in relation to student services and facilities at other institutions, were seen and raised. </p> <p>Alongside this I announced the creation of two further working groups (yes I’m afraid it is an addiction). The first would be the “Safe Drinking Working Group” – a group aiming to look at how we work to ensure the safety and security of our students on campus and at Union run events. Alongside this looking at our promotion of drinking, prices, events etc but most importantly how best to promote safe drinking within the Union.</p> <p>Alongside this was a working group which is really the basis for attaining a major target of mine for this year. Swansea has a good turnout in sabbatical elections considering the number of students we have. However I am a firm believer that we are just ticking over and should we change a few things, use examples of best practice and generally increase awareness and interest we could increase our turnout substantially. As a campus University with a student body who I genuinely believe if made aware will become interested and active.</p> <p>On Tuesday I put into effect the next stage of my community action plan, as a group of us in some incredibly sexy hi- visibility jackets descended upon Brynmill and Uplands. We went from door to door with two aims;<br> 1) To meet students and highlight the Students Union, discuss with them any issues they might have with their accommodation, the community or whatever. Then raise the fact that there have been problems in the past in the area between students and other residents, giving sensible advice on how to avoid any issues. Finally handing out some safety advice (and UV pens) with regards to burglary and how to prevent it in your house.</p> <p>2) To meet local residents and give them a face and a name for students in the area. Often this is the biggest problems in areas of high tenant turnover- where tenants don’t introduce themselves to their neighbours and thus they are faceless and nameless – and should they cause trouble residents often become more fearful and feel unable to speak to them about their concerns. Thus problems escalate and other agencies are called first, when a simple conversation might have sufficed. Therefore we wanted to show the residents that we are local students who care about our community and care about what they think. Alongside this we give them a point of contact should anything flare up.</p> <p>The reception was so good that I will definitely be rolling the process out as a fix for problem student areas. Residents and students really appreciated the effort and the impact was excellent</p> <p>On Wednesday and Thursday a number of us descended on Fulton House giving out condoms, attack alarms, spikeys, UV pens and most importantly free safety advice. Alongside this the advice centre stress balls went down a treat – even if some exec members hurled them at students with the helpful advice to “think fast”.</p> <p>Finally on Friday Simon Maughan (Services Officer, Dave Turner (Accommodation Officer) and I returned to Fulton House but this time in tuxedos and with looks to kill. </p> <p>This was part of my “Bond, My Bond” campaign, the aim being to encourage more students to get their deposits back at the end of tenancy, and is part our larger attempt to increase the reputation of student housing within the city, and the student experience in general. With simple advice from taking pictures of damage when you move in, or checking your landlord has used the deposit protection service and most importantly utilising the support available from the Union particularly the vast experience of our advisors in the Advice Centre.</p> <p>Finally that night I made my way out for another SSHH campaign, I knew it was going to be a long night when one student decided to hold a sit in until we would give him another lollipop!<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/n289300834_1697661_5874/3148069" title="n289300834_1697661_5874"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/069/3148069_27ba05cb5a_s.jpg" alt="n289300834_1697661_5874" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-27-10-does-a-hi-vis-jacket-make-safety-sexy-5387814/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-27-10-does-a-hi-vis-jacket-make-safety-sexy-5387814/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-20-10-my-new-coming-a-professional-tour-guide-5387796/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-01-16:/2009/01/16/blog-20-10-my-new-coming-a-professional-tour-guide-5387796/Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:52:15 +0100 <p>On Monday Stuart and I took our first batch of victims (aka University Council Members!) around the Students Union and its Services. From JC’s to the Union Nursery, the advice centre to the radio station – we showed them it all. It was a really great opportunity for both us and the councillors. We were able to show the councillors what we are attempting to achieve in our work with our members and the massive value we feel we are adding to the student experience here at Swansea.<br> On the other side of that it gave us a chance to hear from the councillors – who come with years of experience in stewardship, Universities, Charities, Business, Finance and politics. It really encouraged me in the work we are currently doing to gain independent trustees for the Union board. I was beginning to see the massive potential that people like our tour party could have to the Union. With their experience in key areas and sabbaticals dedication to students and understanding of student issues – our Union can continue to go from strength to strength.</p> <p>Our tour rolled straight into University Council where the Union received a wealth of praise for the tour and the encouragement for more members to go on it. A very good day!</p> <p>On Wednesday we signed ourselves (and our un-knowing staff) up to an excellent piece of research. The University is wishing to look into gaining its own degree awarding powers. At current if you graduate from Swansea you have a degree from the University of Wales. In 2006 the University gained its independence thus becoming “Swansea University”. </p> <p>In recent years concerns have been raised about the controls and procedures within the University of Wales and its institutions. Particularly when the BBC uncovered a controversial bible college in the U.S. which were affiliated to the University of Wales and were giving Mbas out from the University of Wales.</p> <p>Alongside this and the growing credibility of Swansea University as a leading research institution with an excellent academic reputation, growing feelings of moving towards degree awarding powers have grown.</p> <p>The Senior Management were keen to ensure that Students were involved and informed at every stage. Thus at University senate we agreed to go ahead and find out students opinions on any potential changes.</p> <p>On Friday I began my campaign to increase links between ourselves and the community. I believe that whilst the SSHH – Silent Students Happy Homes campaign, has been questioned as to whether it really works, it is an excellent opportunity to be a visible presence for both residents and students.<br> Therefore at 1am Estelle Hart, Lleu Williams and myself made our way to Langland Terrace and handed our lollipops to students explaining how we wanted them just to keep the noise down and think about the community they live in.</p> <p>Whilst the main miscreants were friends of mine that night! Generally the reception was positive and thus we set about with a rota for the rest of the term ensuring a regular visible presence every Friday.<br> Of course some students – especially the dangerously inebriated ones- will ignore us – however it’s the average student who perhaps doesn’t think theyre talking loud, or are too out of it to even think what time it is and that people will be asleep. These are the people that the campaign has a positive impact upon. It shows the SU taking action in a particularly unglamoruous fashion for 2 to 3 hours in the early hours of the morning. Thus showing that the Union is active to both students and residents.</p> <p>On Saturday I crawled into Uni for the last open day of the year. It was a great end to the week with numerous prospective students asking about the Union here at Swansea and more importantly Union’s in general I took a few tours of students around the Union building which was good fun – thankfully I had cleaned up that morning!! <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/n289300834_1697652_3934/3148089" title="n289300834_1697652_3934"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/089/3148089_506372b1c6_s.jpg" alt="n289300834_1697652_3934" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-20-10-my-new-coming-a-professional-tour-guide-5387796/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-20-10-my-new-coming-a-professional-tour-guide-5387796/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-13-10-training-trustees-and-trains-5387789/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2009-01-16:/2009/01/16/blog-13-10-training-trustees-and-trains-5387789/Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:51:11 +0100 <p>As I sit writing this I am slowly making my way back on a train to my delightful hometown of Plymouth. It’s been a great week but boy am I tired!</p> <p>The week began well – on Monday we invited a number of auditors to tender for the Unions business. It was a really eye-opening experience (and pretty complex in parts!) everything from proximity to experience was taken into account. It was great to come to a unanimous decision as a team though and with positive points all round!</p> <p>That night following an extensive exec meeting we made our way to the AU exec social at Papa Sanchez. What a bargain! – A meal and a drink for a fiver?????? It was great to be able to meet the AU’s exec and socialise with them in a nice, relaxed setting.<br> One of the hardest things about coming into this job was the perception that things would be really difficult with the AU considering the problems last year. It’s a real credit to Richard Lancaster and Simon Griffin that both Unions have moved forward and gone back to doing what they do best – supporting and representing Swansea students!</p> <p>On Tuesday I made my way to the Christian Union meeting at Pantygwydr Baptist church. Over the previous month John Hilder (CU President) and myself had been working towards bringing the CU back into the Students Union societies group. </p> <p>A few years ago tensions arose at a number of institutions between Christian Unions and Students Unions. Sometimes over bureaucracy, sometimes with regards to adherence to the Unions diversity and equality policy and often failure to fully comply with Union democracy.</p> <p>When Exeter Students Guild and their Christian Union had a particularly public falling out these problems really came to fore. UCCF – the Christian Unions’ union- advised those Christian Unions affiliated to their students Unions to consider withdrawing in case things got complex, as they had done in Exeter.</p> <p>At the time this problem did not face Swansea as it was not affiliated to the SU, and if i am honest until this year I would have agree with the leadership that they were actually doing fine, even better off, not being part of the SU. Many students know ore have experienced more of the Christian Union than the Students Union. Many of my friends remember the CU members moving them into accommodation, hydrating them in the enrolment queue and the numerous “virtually free” burgers!</p> <p>However as Health and Safety regulations and estates restrictions have increased across campus the Christian Union has struggled to continue its missionary role across campus. In the past their own insurance covered them, but understandably the University has simplified its restrictions to the point that only the Student Union and its societies can carry out certain activities on campus. Therefore Jon and I felt that perhaps it was time to ask the members to bring the CU back into the SU societies.</p> <p>As I went to the meeting I felt apprehensive, it is an issue that people feel passionate about and are understandably anxious because of previous Union’s experiences. However I made it clear to the members that they still remained in control as do the members of every society on campus. The Union is the parent body – there to support, advice and discipline in extreme circumstances.<br> After some excellent questions and a great debate it went to the vote- and a bit later that night I was so glad to hear that the Christian Union – arguably one of the most active societies on campus – was a member of the SU once again.</p> <p>On Thursday numerous students ran for election in both NUS delegate elections and the executive elections here on campus. It was great to see such an awesome turnout and i am dead excited to be working with such a passionate team this year!</p> <p>I however made my way to a trustees training event run by NUS at the Britannia hotel in Bournemouth. I was quite interested to go on this course, as whilst I love all the parts of my job my role as a trustee particularly challenges and encourages me. </p> <p>This was an excellent course, and as usual another great chance to meet a wide range of students from other institutions and gain from their experiences and characters!</p> <p>Whilst i am not necessarily the biggest fan of too active a seminar! It was a great laugh; from acting out the credit crunch being destroyed by good governance, speed dating as different charitable bodies to a rather novel relaxation seminar (where one delegate actually did fall asleep!). The odd thing was it really did stick and I was quite excited to get back and put into action some of the “good governance, good leadership and good management” techniques I had learnt.</p> <p>My week ended with a particularly horrendous attempt to “pop back to Plymouth” all courtesy of the rail network!! I got there eventually and I made it back so that’s all that matters eh?<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/nus_vote/3201589" title="nus vote"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/589/3201589_b3fb42ce28_s.jpeg" alt="nus vote" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-13-10-training-trustees-and-trains-5387789/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2009/01/16/blog-13-10-training-trustees-and-trains-5387789/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/10/22/more-meetings-and-more-free-nourishment-06-09-gt-4911068/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-10-22:/2008/10/22/more-meetings-and-more-free-nourishment-06-09-gt-4911068/Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:24:35 +0200 <p>One of the hardest things about this job is having the time to be available in the office for students to drop in. Thankfully this week was an exception to the rule, with a number of students from societies such as the Christian Union, Dance and Yoga popping in for a natter – and some free tea!<br> On Monday I had the opportunity to meet with a number of key residents within the Community alongside Simon Wright from Student Support Services, Chief Superintendant Mark Matthias and our very own snazzy community representative Simon Darvill! It was an excellent opportunity to work with residents on ways in which we can improve our community. However, one of the saddest things that came out of the meeting was that a number of the residents felt they didn’t know their neighbours and often their neighbours didn’t make any effort to introduce themselves. If you live in the community make sure you take the opportunity to meet your neighbours. The majority of residents love students living in their community; many will tell you it keeps them young. However it can often feel like an “us and them” situation, be sure to introduce yourself, maybe even offer them a cup of tea- might be worth cleaning up first though!<br> On Tuesday both Ross and I set off to attend a staff student meeting in the school of health science. It was a slightly odd experience as the committee has members both here on the Singleton Campus and also down at Carmarthen- therefore we found ourselves on camera streaming live! The committee was a great opportunity for Ross and I to understand current issues for our comrades in health science and therefore work on how to support them better. In practice we are now looking alongside both staff and students in health science, at increasing bus service provision and challenging WAG on their current support for students travelling to placements.<br> In the evening I chaired my first SGM- this is the core of representation within the Union and it is your real chance to stand up and shout about how your Union is run. At the meeting all representatives (especially Sabbs) give their reports and open the floor to scrutinise them and their work. We are here to work for you so therefore it is important that we are accountable to you and the SGM is the key place for this. Alongside this opportunity to scrutinise and challenge your officers you have the opportunity to set the strategy of the Union. Whether there is an issue you feel we should be campaigning for or a national issue you wish us to investigate and respond back to you – it is up to you. Our biggest successes in the past such as 24 hour library access and increased student safety work has come from SGM policy – and therefore has been directed by you the student body.<br> On Wednesday we had our Finance and Resources meeting and then went forward into our regular meeting with the Senior Managers of the University. This meeting is fantastically informal yet serious, it gives all of us the opportunity to work alongside the University in getting the best for all of our students. Whether it is informing them of a concern that we are looking to resolve or asking for support on an issue these meetings enable another level of support and most importantly communication and clarity.<br> The end of my week was highly active with a number of opportunities to meet and chat with students and look at plans for the rest of the term and indeed the rest of the year. On Thursday polls closed for the executive elections and I was really chuffed with the significant turnout – to see who’s running to represent you check out the information on the website.<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/kitchener_country/2929490" title="kitchener-country"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/490/2929490_b1b18730c3_s.jpeg" alt="kitchener-country" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/10/22/more-meetings-and-more-free-nourishment-06-09-gt-4911068/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/10/22/more-meetings-and-more-free-nourishment-06-09-gt-4911068/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/10/22/in-the-deep-end-and-fighting-fires-29th-09-gt-4911054/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-10-22:/2008/10/22/in-the-deep-end-and-fighting-fires-29th-09-gt-4911054/Wed, 22 Oct 2008 08:21:56 +0200 <p>I knew this week was going to be both fun and testing! On Monday I met with Luke as we prepared for our first executive meeting, not only with a virtually brand new committee but also with a brand new (slightly nervous!) chair – moi!<br> But before we could kick off with the democracy we attended the leaving party for Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Rhys Williams. I had only recently met Professor Williams but in the few months that I have had chance to work with him he has been extremely helpful and most importantly highly encouraging. Professor Williams has a clear love for students here at the University and his dedication over the years in supporting student issues is testament to that.</p> <p>SO the exec meeting – wait a minute I hear you say! What is an exec meeting?<br> The executive committee is made up of elected sabbaticals (us) and voluntary reps, students much like yourselves, who campaign for their specific remit but come together to represent students across campus. SO between the two groups we form a committee which looks at the policy and direction of the Union. Therefore we discuss everything from our services to our campaigns and look at ways at improving them for students. </p> <p>There were some fantastic items to get through including election procedures and plans, Nus conference motions and disability access challenges. To see a copy of the full minutes make sure you pop online to the main website and they’re under representation.</p> <p>On Tuesday we were given some more trustees training along with the Athletic Union. The trainer was absolutely fantastic and despite the fact that we went over a few things covered before, there were some really interesting and new information which I learnt a lot from.<br> After all the brain ache of governance training we decided to pop along to see the Comedy Clubs first performance of the term. The guys and gals put on a fantastic show for the packed crowd in DV8, with an extra special comic performance from my friend Dan Entwistle.</p> <p>Wednesday evening included a rather entertaining night in Oceana for the Fresher’s Ball – where some of you may have seen me dressed as a mildly inebriated headmaster (apologies!). On Thursday we were given the opportunity to meet numerous members of the academic registry team. From staff members who deal with grievance procedures to those dealing with Erasmus students both here and abroad, it was great to put faces to email addresses. More importantly it was fantastic to see so much passion to do the best for students, and a real desire for us to tell them what you guys wanted to change. However exams still will be in session this year! </p> <p>Following on from our meet and greet we attended our first Student Affairs Committee. This is the real student experience committee, so it’s the best place for us to bring issues regarding non – academic aspects of your life here in Swansea. One of the key things that we managed to take forward was the setting up of a proper review of fresher’s fortnight alongside our colleagues in Student Support Services. So make sure to get in touch if there are things that you weren’t happy with or would like to see change.</p> <p>On Friday I was sent for Fire Safety Training- which despite the interesting nature of trustee training, I have to admit was the most fun course so far. By the end of the training I was given a fire extinguisher to put out a small fire – I felt like I was in London Burning!<img src="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/13/122/509285703/n509285703_4363257_3793.jpg" alt="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/13/122/509285703/n509285703_4363257_3793.jpg" title="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v356/13/122/509285703/n509285703_4363257_3793.jpg"> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/10/22/in-the-deep-end-and-fighting-fires-29th-09-gt-4911054/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/10/22/in-the-deep-end-and-fighting-fires-29th-09-gt-4911054/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/and-so-it-beginneth-4786647/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-09-27:/2008/09/27/and-so-it-beginneth-4786647/Sat, 27 Sep 2008 09:57:21 +0200 <p>As you may have noticed i have finally caught up with the old blog! So now its up to you to read them (ok just look for the pictures!!)</p> <p>Its been a fantastic week - definately tiring but fantastic!<br> Following the weekend i decided not to set my alarm for Monday assuming that i would wake up around 10/ 11 am - instead it was closer to 1 pm!! After a mad dash into work i met with the rest of the Sabbs for a chat and a debrief of the weekend. We then put together some plans for the week ahead particularly regarding our presence at freshers fayre.</p> <p>Monday night was a great opportunity to relax with one my friends birthdays and a cracking night in Oceana. After quite a lonely summer it was awesome to see so many people back - including friends who had been away on Erasmus or American exchange!</p> <p>On Tuesday i made my way up to the Met for a photo opportunity with Dan Jones from Safer Swansea and Met SU president Hattie Brewster. Over the summer we worked together on a safety planner which could go out to all students with a planner on one side and useful safety info on the other. Keep your eyes peeled for safety week!!!</p> <p>wednesday and thursday went fantastically well - a real credit to the fantastic Annie Cottam. Loads of great businesses with (more importantly) bags full of freebies! Lots of fantastic societies and sports clubs on offer. Over the two days in between emails and meetings i was able to get round an meet all the stalls and it was awesome to see so many students keen to get involved. Societies are one of the strongest parts of our union and it is crucial that we support them - i feel our team is committed to furthering their aims and opportunities this year.</p> <p>IF you wanted a great example of the support our societies offer - there was no better on these two days than the photography guys. Over the two days they took several hundred passport photos for students for a very reasonable price and were particularly effective when the photo booth broke down!</p> <p>Alongside this we had our own stall offering both information and just a general chat. Manned by Leoni, Ross, Katie Dalton (NUS Wales - Womens) and myself i hope you had the opportunity to meet and chat with us. Leoni, Katie and Ross did a fantastic job highlighting their campaigns and welfare aims and encouraged numerous people to sign up and represent!</p> <p>Friday was my catch up day - as i finally managed to sit down and attack my emails and my phone came back online - i felt lost without it this week - but in fact it probably did me some favours!!!<br> Xtreme had their first meeting with a fantastic turnout and more encouragement for what hopes to be a fantastic year for the guys. Make sure you check out the new look website and of course the Xtreme lounge (the old D2 room) <a href="http://www.xtremeradio.org">www.xtremeradio.org</a></p> <p>So that was a brief rundown of my week just to wrap up please pop up and see us whenever - if were not in drop us an email and w'll get together another time. Well done to everyone for their hard work this week - its been awesome and a real encouragement for our year ahead.</p> <p>Make sure you check out the website - exec polls have opened and nomination forms are available from next thursday from the general office (just down from level 2 spar)</p> <p>TTFN!<br> JIM<br> <img src="http://photos-834.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v338/166/25/289300834/n289300834_1560590_6215.jpg" alt="http://photos-834.ll.facebook.com/photos-ll-sf2p/v338/166/25/289300834/n289300834_1560590_6215.jpg" title="meandsoc"></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/and-so-it-beginneth-4786647/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/and-so-it-beginneth-4786647/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/supporting-our-medical-students-first-back-first-met-12-09-gt-4786441/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-09-27:/2008/09/27/supporting-our-medical-students-first-back-first-met-12-09-gt-4786441/Sat, 27 Sep 2008 09:02:41 +0200 <p>Well having flown back into Bristol late on Thursday i did still make it in on Friday -only to be met by the baying mob of sabbaticals whod assumed that i would rush back to office on Thursday!!<br> Anyhoo after beginning to attack some form of catch up on my now crashed and full mailbox and overflowing pigeon hole! I dashed off for a welcome talk for new nursing students. Having lived with several nurses and medical students in my first year i have a massive amount of respect for them. Many of my friends worked full time hours, studied quite hard and then still managed to get out and about for various events, societies and sports clubs.<br> As i began my talk i attempted to speak from this personal view and i think i got a pretty good reception. I wanted to make it clear that we were here to support and encourage all students in order that your experience here at Swansea is the best you can have. </p> <p>I spent much of my weekend putting together a rota and plan for arrivals weekend and freshers week. Dont let me make out i was working all weekend! in fairness i managed to pop off to Shanes leaving do on the Saturday!</p> <p>SO as i turned the page of my diary i could see the week we'd been elected for coming together! For the first few days i was busy both in the health science departments and at the ICWS giving talks about the SU and our support for the students. As i gave the talks and handed out vast numbers of our SU unzipped books i really started to get the buzz and feel the momentum. </p> <p>My house has filled up again with Will and Jon back and Uni was starting to get really busy again -but we werent quite there yet!<br> On Wednesday the Exec returned and we worked hard to promote the SU to thousands of prospective students. As i gave my "student life" talk to prospective students a number of the audience later commented how excited i looked! </p> <p>That night we had a great opportunity to socialise together over a curry and enjoy our last night off before things really got busy. With the exec in training from both Stuart Rice and Jon Follett and Rhys from NUS. Once their training had wrapped up i made a point of presenting them with their uniform hoodies - a small sign of our gratitude but i felt it important to thank them for standing in the first place and for the tough but rewarding year ahead.</p> <p>Friday morning 8.30 - Nick, Andy, Kieran, Lance and I were up in the Village assisting the various staff from Residential services in their preperation for the next few days where some 1700 students and their various friends and family would arrive. The day went really well and i enjoyed the great opportunity to meet students and their parents and to chat with them. As the day progressed and got increasingly busy i called in as many favours as i had - various friends from Xtreme, the Law society and Ents made their way up to the village to assist in a fantasticly well run parking organisation. All the sabbs both the team in the village and the guys on campus were extremely grateful for the invaluable support of the exec and various other fantastic students.</p> <p>I gave three talks over the weekend and i attempted to evoke a sense of understanding and encouragement. I remembered sitting with my parents (in some ways waiting for them to leave- but in others not wanting them to!) and just a constant feeling of nerves and excitement. I wanted to encourage freshers that those feelings would go as they moved into the most exciting three years of their life.</p> <p>On Friday night i was on hand outside Fulton house and DV8 offering taxi numbers and information for any students needing to get into town or back home. It was one of my favourite parts of the weekend as i met and chatted to numerous freshers, 2nd and 3rd years and gave the SU a personal face. Ross did the same on Saturday night and couldnt wait to tell me on Monday how much he had enjoyed it!</p> <p>Sunday wrapped up with a fresh and free - an excellent event which was only open to freshers. We bussed the guys down and back to Oceana nad it was a fantastic opportunity to see them all getting to know each other (some more than others!) and hopefully feel at home here in Swansea.<img src="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v317/13/122/509285703/n509285703_4288129_9714.jpg" alt="http://photos-b.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v317/13/122/509285703/n509285703_4288129_9714.jpg" title="freshers team"> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/supporting-our-medical-students-first-back-first-met-12-09-gt-4786441/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/supporting-our-medical-students-first-back-first-met-12-09-gt-4786441/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/clearing-my-desk-18-08-gt-4786332/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-09-27:/2008/09/27/clearing-my-desk-18-08-gt-4786332/Sat, 27 Sep 2008 08:31:37 +0200 <p>So i have finally got round to booking some time off and so from this weekend i'll be off for a few weeks in search of some sunshine!<br> Whilst i was listening to the radio recently i heard the results of a survey which suggested that we take several days if not a week, winding down or clearing our desk before we are truly on holiday. I'm not sure if that was completely true for me but i certainly had a lot to wind up before i finished!</p> <p>Monday began with a vast number of emails to try and clear through after our conference in Leeds. Nick and i got together to talk about what we wanted to take forward from our training and how we would promote students rights better.<br> When i was Accommodation officer and indeed as tenant in poor housing myself, one of the key things i felt was that we students feel isolated and without hope when a landlord lets us down. We do not feel we have rights which support us and therefore we just have to "grin and bear it".<br> I tried to change that and raise the awareness of the support both legally and personally available for students living in Swansea. </p> <p>My first campaign is a simple one; "Bond, MY Bond"<br> Quite simply with the changes to the Housing law in 2005 your deposit (or bond!) now has to be protected in an accreddited Deposit protection scheme -the legislation might seem a little confusing but simply;<br> •As of April 2007 ALL Assured Shorthold Tenants deposits must be put into a deposit protections scheme.</p> <p>•Your deposit must be paid into such a scheme within 14 days.</p> <p>•The government based scheme (The DPS) has dedicated personnel who become independent arbitrators should there be any disagreement at the end of tenure.</p> <p>So for more information check out both our website <a href="http://www.swansea-union.co.uk">www.swansea-union.co.uk</a> and the DPS at <a href="http://www.depositprotection.com">www.depositprotection.com</a> </p> <p>Tuesday was pretty hectic but i feel we made a lot of progress particularly regarding our Welsh language and culture promotion for the year ahead. Lleu is a fantastic person to have on the exec and i feel that many of the suggestions raised, such as Welsh cultural festivals, welsh comedy nights and welsh trips are important parts of our Unions mission.</p> <p>We wrapped up the day in preparation for interviews the following day for new positions within our Nursery. I felt confident of what was expected of me - but nothing could quite prepare you enough for the experience.<br> It was a fantastic experience but very hard - with such a vast number of candidates who were of a fantastic standard it was hard to come to a joint decision , but we did and were all extremely happy with our choices.<br> But during the day as Stu would explain to the somewhat bemused candidates as to why two twenty-something year olds were itnerviewing them Leoni and I could not help but smile as Stu would say that we were the bosses of the Union. Neither of us see ourselves in that way but understand our positions within the Union - and its still taking some time to come to terms with our role!!</p> <p>On Thursday i met with some guys from <a href="http://www.igotmunchies.co.uk">www.igotmunchies.co.uk</a> - a website set up by two former students from Newport Uni (one the former president) The website offers viewers the opportunity to access online menus for restaurants and takeaways. It was an excellent idea and was interesting to hear another former Sabbs position on their job and see where they were going now.</p> <p>On Friday i wrapped up my week by finishing up some of the boards advertising various things within the SU. After and argument with Leoni regarding her picture! I made my way over to the new ICWS - International College Wales Swansea in the Margam building to meet the various staff and offer the SU's support for their students. The ICWS is a fantastic college offering International students the chance to bulk up their qualifications and experience British culture before feeding into the full HE system. Alongside this they are an extremely lucky bunch of students with such a great team of support and teaching staff.</p> <p>So i wrapped up at about 6 with my desk clearer than i think it ever had been - all emails read, all post sorted, all calls diverted and sunshine soon to be accounted for!<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/bond_jpg/2845712" title="bond jpg"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/712/2845712_b3d2522cad_s.jpeg" alt="bond jpg" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/clearing-my-desk-18-08-gt-4786332/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/clearing-my-desk-18-08-gt-4786332/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/housing-housing-housing-11-08-gt-4786238/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-09-27:/2008/09/27/housing-housing-housing-11-08-gt-4786238/Sat, 27 Sep 2008 08:04:12 +0200 <p>With Leoni just back and Nick and I off from Tuesday we felt it was important to wrap up a few ideas and plan ahead. Our meeting was really productive and enabled us to agree our plans for freshers week and our roles!<br> I spent the afternoon finalising plans with the Xtreme guys for their arrivals weekend programming. Xtreme will be broadcasting live from 9am on the Friday - with loads of local knowledge and information broadcasting and some awesome music. Living with Will (the new station manager) has been brilliant - it keeps me really in tune (excuse the pun!) with xtreme and excited!!!</p> <p>On Tuesday Nick and i left for Unipol and Nus Training in Leeds with Cate Chapman (VP Welfare) and Chugga Jones (Representation Staff) from Swansea Met. Despite the long drive it was a great opportunity to see Chugga again and get to know Cate a bit better.<br> Our three days at Leeds Met working with Unipol was fantastic. Nick first took me on a Unipol conference when i was the Accommodation exec. Unipol is a charity which works nationally to increase the standard and professionalism of student housing (www.unipol.org.uk). Having gained so much from the previous conference from Unipol i was extremely keen, this one certainly did not disappoint.</p> <p>One of the most fantastic things to see was Unipols main office in Leeds. It has a brilliant layout - very relaxed and accesible with masses of information from actual places to live to safety and legal information. Both Nick and myself were keen to transfer many of these ideas to SAS when we returned. With our mission statement so similar to Unipols we were extremely lucky to have such a fantastic opportunity to learn so much from them.</p> <p>One of the key areas in which i am looking to focus alongside Nick and the University is to continue to increase our students reputation within the community. I feel that there has been massive levels of success in the past with our community newsletter and various campaigns such as KerbIT, SSHH and Students are Superheroes. I am passionate to take it forward and the support from other sabbs, Unipol and Nus on the conference was invaluable.</p> <p>We had a good few nights out over the few days and got to know the various teams from other Uni's really well. By the end of the few days Nick, Cate, Chugga and myself were keen to get back and implement our ideas (and get some sleep!!)</p> <p>Friday morning brought with it a mass of emails to attend to and a good catch up with the guys with a bit of a debrief. Nick and i agreed to meet asap on Monday to discuss how take our new ideas forward this year.<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/logo/3210489" title="logo"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/489/3210489_2b49caec06_s.png" alt="logo" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/housing-housing-housing-11-08-gt-4786238/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/09/27/housing-housing-housing-11-08-gt-4786238/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/11/furthering-links-4569322/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-08-10:/2008/08/11/furthering-links-4569322/Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:59:04 +0200 <p>From Monday am my calendar of events was pretty chocca! We kicked off with some planning in partnership with Hattie, Cate and Tash at the Met SU (http://www.metsu.org/). Being so geographically close to each other enables us to encourage fantastic links whilst maintaining our independance! A particular focus will be community relations something which both our unions are passionate about. During the afternoon there was a particularly idea explosive session as campaign plans were thrown about the place!</p> <p>Tuesday was Nursing day! I spent most of my day meeting a number of senior academics within the health science department. One of our key aims at the SU is to look after all medical students and ensure that they get as much of a student experience as possible! Having friends who were student nurses has given me consdierable understanding of the complications of juggling a heavy academic and placement life with a social one! What was great was seeing that both the SU and the health science department are clearly on the same page when it comes to this issue! </p> <p>Stayed a little longer than i expected this evening - 9 PM to be precise - but i felt a little behind with the paperwork so it was a good opportunity to catch up - never seen my in pile so empty!</p> <p>On Wednesday we met with Edy our Campaigns advisor to discuss the plans for the year. I think we scared him a little with the level of ideas flying about the room, but theres no-one better than Edy when it comes to pulling ideas towards a solid and cohesive plan so keep your eyes peeled!</p> <p>Following our meeting we finished off our tidy up of the offices as we prepared for our visit from the new registrar Raymond Coborowski. Raymond is an absolutely fantastic guy who has a wealth of experience in applied social sciences and until his appointment was the director for Barnardos Cymru (http://www.barnardos.org.uk/wales.htm)___##0##___ Raymonds job is to manage and lead the numerous administative functions of the University from the academic registry to student support services.<br> Since i first met him a few months ago he has been keen to see what the SU does and therefore we were more than happy to take him a wee tour of the SU- twas good fun! In the evening i met up with James Snaith a friend of mine and a graduate of Swansea who has now gone on the Broadcast Journalism course at Cardiff. Being potentially one of his last weeks in the city of dreams! i thought it imperative that we made our way to oceana!</p> <p>I spent much of Thursday reading through numerous applications for our new nursery nurse position here. It's been absolutely fantastic experience and i cant wait to sit on the interview panel!</p> <p>I also met with Simon Griffin to work on an article we have put together for the Western Mail- keep your eyes peeled in the next few weeks. Its our view of the last year and the involvement of our students in the local community. We thought it was important to give another side to anti-social students debate. Undeniably a small minority cause trouble for a number of residents, but i truly believe that many students make a real difference to this community and want to be part of it.</p> <p>On Friday it was meeting central as we ran through both Personnel and Finance and Resources committees. In the afternoon i met with Dr Martin Lewis for university council training which was really useful. Although i have sat on council before there have been a number of situations which i had not quite understood so it was good to clear those up. </p> <p>I attempted to clear my desk as far as possible in that i'm off to leeds next week with Nick for a conference on housing so time is of the essence!<br> <img src="http://www.swan.ac.uk/media/Media,24156,en.png" alt="Registrar" title="Raymond Ciborowski"> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/11/furthering-links-4569322/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/11/furthering-links-4569322/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/06/nus-nus-and-yes-more-nus-4548478/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-08-05:/2008/08/06/nus-nus-and-yes-more-nus-4548478/Wed, 06 Aug 2008 00:46:05 +0200 <p>Well Friday evening brought with it a random message from an extremely excited and “on fire” Leoni. By Monday morning she had lost none of her buzz and I could see her itching to debrief her training in Leeds. But first we had training from Chris at the Advice Centre, which was excellent! One of the chief things I was worried about taking this job is the idea that students will come to you for advice and support. The notion itself doesn’t scare me, but its more about what if I don’t know what to do or say?</p> <p>Chris gave us an excellent seminar on how to give advice and assist students to a person or scheme which can really help them. It really encouraged me and I feel confident that I can be of a real use to the students that I look after. </p> <p>Regarding the Advice Centre it was extremely interesting to hear about the effectiveness of the system, so much so that we have had to employ another full time advisor. Although it isn’t good that there is a vast number of students who need help, it is good that we can meet that need, particularly with our new advisor Neil who I’m sure will make an excellent addition to our AMAZING advice team.<br> See; <a href="http://www.swansea-union.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18&Itemid=196">http://www.swansea-union.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18&Itemid=196</a></p> <p>Leoni and Ross had a really encouraging time on their training, particularly Leoni who managed to fill up what little weeks we have left for campaigns with her excellent ideas! Leoni is looking to particularly focus on employment rights and assistance of student parents. Whilst encouraging us all to think strongly about the seriousness of domestic violence and inequality in so many areas of society.</p> <p>Yet no sooner had she returned she was gone again – off to learn about liberation from NUS…</p> <p>I spent my Tuesday morning working alongside Sally Thurlow from the Alumni office, as we sought to ensure the SU assistance for graduates of Swansea. As a history graduate, and a slightly abnormal love of ancestral/ heritage history, one of my hobbies since July has been looking in to the history of the SU and where many of our former officers are now- I’ll keep you posted!</p> <p>On Wednesday Rhys Dart, NUS Wales Development officer came down to a miserable, stormy Swansea. I have known Rhys since I was elecfted as an executive and he is a VAST asset to NUS Wales and Welsh Student Unions. He directed the team to really think strongly about our aims for the year, but more importantly our aims in a wider sense. In effect to look at the Unions future even though we might not be a part of seeing a plan come to fruition. </p> <p>In the afternoon I met with Hannah from ents to discuss plans of revamping D2 and changes to Saturday nights to ensure we really give the best to our students. It was a really productive meeting and I’m certain Saturdays will be coming back strong next September!</p> <p>On Thursday I made my way to UWE for Nus Leadership and Governance Training. The next two days were an excellent opportunity to network and seek advice from various Presidents from up and down the country. Yet crucially the speakers were my highlight with advice from trustees from the Red Cross, Executives at the Charities Commission and MP’s. </p> <p>It was particularly interesting to meet the new president of NUS- Wes Streeting. Nus is often criticised for neglecting students real values and opinions, and although i can understand the precedent for this i truly believe NUS is moving forward and in a direction that people can commit to. Wes is a really accessible guy so make sure you get in touch with him - <a href="mailto:wes.streeting@nus.org.uk">wes.streeting@nus.org.uk</a></p> <p>So that was my week - sadly i sent a few mocking emails to friends who had escaped wet old wales for their apparently sunny hometowns!<br> My smugness doesnt look like its going to last long there is definately more naff weather on the way!<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/media/photo/1531657859_9e6afe6eee_o/2712508" title="1531657859_9e6afe6eee_o"><img src="http://data5.blog.de/media/508/2712508_15791a623a_s.jpeg" alt="1531657859_9e6afe6eee_o" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/06/nus-nus-and-yes-more-nus-4548478/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/06/nus-nus-and-yes-more-nus-4548478/#commentshttp://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/04/title-4539143/tag:supresident.blog.co.uk,2008-08-04:/2008/08/04/title-4539143/Mon, 04 Aug 2008 01:12:16 +0200 <p>Motivation has often been hard this week – with the unusual periods of sunshine often proving far too attractive. By Tuesday I had decided I would start at 8am in order to enjoy a little more of the sunny afternoons!!!</p> <p>Monday saw our team diminish as Ross and Leoni went off to Nus Training in Leeds. I think coming into the office for a meeting before was a bad idea as they could barely remain in their seats! The rest of my day was taken up attempting to arrange meetings with University departments and staff, as I realised we are swiftly heading to their mass holiday exodus!<br> Much of Tuesday was taken up with re-filing the rather confusing mass of Student Union Documents! Everything from former President’s correspondence to executive election results – but not in such a clear and concise manner! By the end of the day I smelt strongly of dust but my office looked clean and controlled – my first victory!!</p> <p>On Wednesday I was invited to a YMCA partner lunch at Morgans Hotel, for a presentation on the new direction of the YMCA in Wales. I had been previously involved in the YMCA movement whilst back at home, working with outdoor education centres for deprived local kids. My housemate Adrian had worked with Rag for a number of years and was still closely linked to the YMCA European Action Teams, so I dragged him along!</p> <p>I had done my research – but not very well and to my astonishment was overwhelmed by the YMCA’s important and life changing work in Wales. One of just a number of projects was that of encouraging local people to become guarantors for homeless citizens when attempting to get accommodation.</p> <p>But the primary focus of the event was to highlight and promote support for the new YMCA Newgale centre at Newgale Sands in West Wales. The centre might seem to be just an average outdoor education centre but it has a wider teaching role. Its mission focus is to assist children and young people to become the best people they can be. It might sound vague or even a standard statement, but I believe they have real directives which will assist them.</p> <p>For more information make sure you check out <a href="http://www.newgaleymca.co.uk/">http://www.newgaleymca.co.uk/</a></p> <p>By the time I returned to the office I was struggling to stay sitting down, the talk had really fired me up for our ambition as a Students Union. Our mission statement states that our role is to ……….<br> One not dissimilar from that of the YMCA, and one that I too believe we have done and continue to increase on our success in.</p> <p>During the close of my week I spent much of it tied up replying to emails that I had filed (or perhaps forgotten) needless to say I was a little apologised out! By far the most interesting part of my week was my continuing development of an efficient and forward thinking student safety plan. Alongside Alan from the University’s equality department I feel that we are making real headway. Friday was particularly successful in that a number of Unions (especially Birmingham and Oxford Brookes – TA!) gave me a lot of info and support for our aim of providing a night bus for our students.</p> <p>The team and I also managed to finalise the calendar of basic representation – everything from Finance meetings to sabbatical elections. Below are a couple of dates that you might wish to know about – email me about any more or check out the website!</p> <p>Exec Elections; Polls Open 2nd October > 9th October, Election on 16th October</p> <p>First SGM = 7th October</p> <p>Sabb Elections; Polls Open ; 29th Jan 2009 and Close; 12th Feb 2009<br> Election week is 5th March until 12th March</p> <p>So there we go! Sorry the update is late – I dashed up to my grans for a bit of a birthday bash so the blog took a bit of backseat!!!</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/04/title-4539143/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>http://supresident.blog.co.uk/2008/08/04/title-4539143/#comments