Students' Union handbook

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YOUR ESSENTIAL 2014 GUIDE FOR NEW AND EXISTING BOLTON STUDENTS

2 | SU Handbook 2014

HELLO

Hi, my name is Arthur Kaddu and I am your Students’ Union President for the 2014-2015 academic year, and I would like to

offer you a warm welcome to the University of Bolton and Bolton Students’ Union.

I am confident you will find us to be a friendly and happy bunch of students. I studied professional Graduate Diploma in Education and during this time I was heavily involved with the Students’ Union. I became President so I could continue my work to improve the experience of coming to uni. I’m also keen to speak up for a university region that is continually developing and moving forward. My responsibilities as SU President include: • Listening to you and campaigning for change and improvement to the student experience. • Being your main spokesperson to the University, the media and the National Union of Students (NUS). • Helping you to get involved in all of the SU’s activities, no matter your background or where you come from. • Leading the Students’ Union, working with SU management. • Leading and co-ordinating the work of the Student Officers.

We want you to get involved, so come in and see us and make the most of your time as a student from day one. Remember, my office is always open and I am a friendly kind of guy (so people tell me!) so if you want to discuss any ideas, or have any questions please call in for a chat. Arthur Kaddu President, 2014-15

A LETTER FROM YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION PRESIDENT ARTHUR KADDU

SU Handbook 2014 | 3

How do I get in touch? Pop into the office at: Chancellors Mall

or email: [email protected]

INTRO TO BOLTON SU

Bolton Students’ Union exists to help all University of Bolton students love their time at uni. Every student is a member of the Students’ Union.

This year the SU President is Arthur Kaddu. You’ll see him around campus all the time, but you can also get in touch with him on our website (www.boltonsu.com) and on email ([email protected]). He’s here to make sure the SU is working for all students, and to hear what you have to say about uni life.

We’ll support you by welcoming you to the university at the start of each year, providing you with advice, support and key services, as well as creating a strong community of students who are just like you. You can get involved by: • Joining one of our many sports clubs and student societies (or creating your own!) • Buying a Freshers’ Wristband and/or coming to our Welcome events • Becoming a Student Rep to work with your lecturers to improve your course • Standing for Election to be the next SU President, NUS representative, or on our

Board of Trustees. (This is how you can take over your union and make it work for you!) • Getting advice and support through our friendly Advice Unit- we can help you with money concerns, housing concerns and any academic issues • Giving us advice and feedback about how we can improve the experience of coming to the University of Bolton- just grab Arthur when you see him around.

The SU also runs the only on-campus shop and bar, and we’re the only place you can get your NUS Extra card on campus. Every pound you spend with us is reinvested into your student experience. This means we’ll put what you spend with us back into giving you a better time at uni- it’s a “win-win” situation.

For more information please visit us at www.boltonsu.com, visit us in Chancellors’ Mall (opposite the Student Centre) or email us at [email protected]. You can also find us at twitter.com/Bolton_SU or Facebook.com/BoltonSU.


WHAT’S FIRST?

Moving away to university is always going to be a daunting prospect for even the most confident of people, but we are here to help you prepare. Below is a list of key things to do when you arrive in Bolton that will make your transition to the uni lifestyle a whole lot easier:

Council Tax

As a student you are exempt from paying council tax. The University take care of both Orlando Village and The Hollins Halls of Residence. However, if you are renting private accommodation then you will need to get an exception certificate from the Student Services in the Chancellor’s Mall.

Student Insurance

It is always beneficial to take out your own student tailored insurance policy. Endsleigh provide comprehensive cover solely for students. Look out for them over the Fresher’s week period.

Fresher’s Fair

Every student loves to get as much free stuff as possible. Well the Fresher’s Fair is the perfect place to do this. This year it is spread across two days, 22nd September and 23rd September

in the Chancellor’s Mall/SLZ. Pop along and see what you can grab!

Student Activities

Wednesday 24th September in the Chancellor’s Mall. With the likes of Hockey, Rugby Union, the LGBT Society and the Christian Union, I’m sure you will find what your looking for.

Register with a doctor

When you get to Bolton make sure that you register with a doctor. Throughout your time at the University of Bolton you might need the assistance of the hospital or a doctor. Make sure that you come and see the relevant people at the Fresher’s Fair on 22nd & 23rd September 2014 in the Chancellor’s Mall.

Television Licence

You MUST obtain a TV Licence if you want to watch live TV. This includes watching live TV on your computer or laptop. Find out more information at www.tvlicensing.co.uk

NUS Extra Card

An NUS Extra Card gets you lots of discounts. See page 18 of the handbook for more information.

YOUR TO DO LIST


SPORTS

Bolton Students’ Union run a number of sports clubs. We are always looking for new students to play in our sport teams.

The majority of our clubs represent us in the British University and College Sports (BUCS) leagues which provide competition matches between other universities in the North West of England. You may even be lucky enough to represent us on the national stage if your team progresses through the cup competition.

If you want to start your own club come and speak with Sue in the SU Office.

At the University of Bolton, we have many brilliant student-athletes competing over various sports. If you want to be involved then speak to us because everyone is welcome.

We provide a variety of sports including men’s and women’s hockey, men’s football and basketball, mixed handball, women’s netball, men’s rugby

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PRICES FOR 2014/15 SEASON:

BUCS CLUB £20.00 PER YEAR

NON BUCS CLUB £15.00 PER YEAR

BUCS PAY AND PLAY £2.00 PER GAME


union, mountaineering and cricket. Our student-athletes come from every walk of life and from around the world.

Another great part of sport is Bolton One. A £34 million health, leisure and research centre, built through a unique partnership between Bolton Council, NHS Bolton and the University of Bolton.

The University of Bolton has premier teaching and research activity centred in Bolton One, including flagship health and

sports services which are open to everyone. These include an Athlete Development Centre and a Sports and Spinal Injury Clinic. The University’s Centre for Research for Health and Well-being is based in Bolton One. The University also has a sports centre and a towering 50 foot high climbing wall within the complex.

Within Bolton One there is also an eight-lane, 25-metre competition swimming pool, with seating for 250 spectators; a therapeutic hydrotherapy pool;

a fitness suite; aerobics studio and a community gym.

All these facilities are open to students and staff, as are the NHS services within Bolton one which will include GP services.

Also included are the Sports Spinal Injury Clinic, Sports Hall, Climbing Wall, Athlete Development Centre, Centre For Research For Health & Well-being and a Clinical Simulation Suite.

Just eight of the sports Bolton One has the facilities for: Trampolining, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Five a Side, Futsal, Basketball, Netball, and Badminton! Like the Bolton University Sports Centre on Facebook for more information and regular updates. You can find them at facebook.com/boltonuniversity.sportscentre

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THE STUDENTS’ UNION BAR

The SU Bar is at the heart of the University throughout the year. A sophisticated and cozy environment with comfortable seating, perfect for an afternoon drink whilst catching up on some studying, or simply to relax after your lecture. Not forgetting we have two pool tables, ultra modern plasma screens and a big screen showing events throughout the year.

Fancy an afternoon coffee, tea, hot chocolate or perhaps a soft drink, whilst you have one of our sandwiches, panini’s, jacket potatoes, pizza’s or wraps? We serve it all, and most of the menu can be ordered to take away.

Start your night here, end your night here, the SU Bar hosts an extensive drinks menu, with a selection of wines and world beers, shots and cocktails, its a great venue to meet up with friends or to make new ones.

Our bartenders always strive to make your bar visit a memorable one, whether it’s helping recommend something from the menu, or just fast efficient service with a smile, its the little things that go a long way.

Fancy something different? The SU Bar is associated with Bolton’s J2 nightclub (The Attic). They provide a Hummer shuttle service after special event nights from the bar right to their door so you can arrive in style, and the best thing is its FREE!

Finally the SU Bar is host to welcome week, welcoming new students to the University, and existing students back. Check the next page to see what events are on this welcome week. Its the best way to start your University experience.


STUDENT NIGHT & WRISTBANDS

Ask any student what’s the first thing on their mind when coming to University, they will say the night life! At University of Bolton our student night is held on a Wednesday as it is midweek and allows a chilled break from studying.

We know a good student night when we see one! Our aim is to provide the best student night EVERY Wednesday. Whether you’re meeting friends, or having a quiet drink, we cater for all.

As the University has its very own music channel we are able to play the widest variety of latest music from hip hop to dubstep, indie to rock.

When drinks are concerned the SU Bar has great offers on throughout the entire year, constantly changing to suit your appetite. Whether its a wine or a beer, a shot or a cocktail, we’re sure we will have something you fancy.

So why not come down, grab a drink and dance your night away at Student Night in the SU Bar.

Wristbands

We have loads of excellent night-time events for our Welcome Week! They can cost over £37 to get entry for every night, but with your Freshers’

Image Source: Judy van der Velden - Via Flikr

Wristband you can get access to all these nights for a mere £20!

And wait for it- on top of that we’ll give you free entry to J2 nightclub in Bolton for two weeks- a saving of an additional £22. So it’s just £20 for all of this- saving £39 overall.

There’s two types of wristband:

Early Bird Wristband- gives you guaranteed access to all night events before 9pm. Only 175 available! First come first served!

Normal Wristband- gives you the same great events at the same great price, just without guaranteed access before 9pm.

There’s two ways you can buy your Freshers’ Wristband:

Buy before you get here: go to https://welcomeweek14.eventbrite.co.uk and purchase online (a small charge applies).

Buy when you get here: At Orlando Halls on Sunday the 14th of September, on a weekday at the Bolton SU office (9am-5pm, in Chancellor’s Mall) or at the start of any event.

WRISTBANDS AVAILABLE£20 GETS YOU ENTRY TO ALL SU EVENTS AND FREE

ENTRY TO J2 FOR 2 WEEKS SAVING OVER £35

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WELCOME BBQ

GIVE IT A GO!Have a go at lots of different sports and activities for free!

Book early to avoid disappointment!

MATURE STUDENTSNetworking event for over 25 y.o. students, with free food.

UNIVERSITY ENROLMENT

MOVING INTO HALLS

MOVING INTO HALLS

STUDENT PARENTS£7.25 per child £8.25 per adult

£20 ENTRY & TRAVEL

£36 ENTRY & TRAVEL


DAY EVENTS & WELCOME WEEK

WRISTBANDS AVAILABLE£20 GETS YOU ENTRY TO ALL SU EVENTS AND FREE

ENTRY TO J2 FOR 2 WEEKS SAVING OVER £35

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GIVE IT A GO!Have a go at lots of different sports and activities for free!

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MATURE STUDENTSNetworking event for over 25 y.o. students, with free food.


MOVING INTO HALLS

MOVING INTO HALLS

STUDENT PARENTS£7.25 per child £8.25 per adult

£20 ENTRY & TRAVEL

£36 ENTRY & TRAVEL



SOCIETIES & SUTV

Another Students’ Union’s venture will be reintroduced this year; re-branded and refreshed, 2014 sees the rebirth of SUTV. Bolton SU tv crew. Born in 2012, a channel formally known as STVB, will be filming and operating throughout the year, producing content primarily for the University’s Youtube channel along with other forms of social media.

At present, the SUTV team consists of two Graphic Design students and two Media Production students. Any help from a TV and film production based background would be appreciated. If you feel you could bring something to the SUTV team or just fancy getting involved, why not get in touch?

We will be based in the SU Office however if no one is in feel free to contact us through the Students Union office.

Our first project for this year will be a highlights of this years Welcome Week so from the team, we hope to see you there. Societies are a big part of what

and Transgender (LGBT) Society.

We really want a thriving variety of societies however we can only achieve this with your help. So if you have anything in mind, however ludicrous, do not hesitate to pop in to the office to discuss it.

The Freshers Fair is the perfect opportunity to have a look what our existing societies can offer you.. Its between £0 and £10 to become a full member dependant on the society and £30 to become an associate member. Ask in the Students Union office for advice on societies and we will be glad to point you in the right direction.

we are about. Bolton Students’ Union are always looking out for new and exciting societies to start.

Pop in and have a chat with Sue about starting a new society. There is financial aid to help you get started. Bolton Students’ Union currently have the following societies: Christian Union, Islamic Society, Urban Society, Advanced Science and Engineering Society and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual


ADVICE UNIT & STUDENT REPRESENTATION

Advice Unit

The Advice Unit here within the Students’ Union is a friendly, confidential and independent, one-stop advice shop for students.

We offer free, impartial and confidential advice to all of our students here at the University of Bolton on issues such as money concerns, housing problems and academic issues.

We work purely in the interests of our students and our aim is to not only provide support and guidance on a problem, but also to empower you to tackle the problem yourself.

Janet Galligan runs the Advice Unit within the Students’ Union,

so to book an appointment with her contact reception using the details below.

Janet Galligan office: Chancellors Mall email: [email protected] telephone: 01204 900 850

Student Representation

Representing our students at the University of Bolton is close to our hearts here in the SU, we really want you to enjoy your time with us in Bolton.

We understand that things can often go wrong and we want to help. By becoming a course rep or Academic group rep you can have a part in changing how the courses are run at the University of Bolton.

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Becoming a student rep is probably one of the most worthwhile things you will do at the University.

Over the first few weeks at university you will be inducted into your lessons and you will be informed more about the Student Representation pathway and the SU really urges you to get involved and make your voice heard.

Like we say if you have got something to shout about then shout… Let us know your thoughts and views we really are here to help you.

Lauren Elliot office: Chancellors Mall email: [email protected] telephone: 01204 900 863


SHOP

As many people are aware the University only has one shop and this is owned and run by the SU. We are situated in the Chancellor’s building next to Cafe Athena.

Gill Charters runs the shop along with students from the University creating an atmosphere that is welcoming and efficient.

Within our shop we sell a variety of products that will ensure you rarely need to leave campus. If you need anything we do not have Gill will try her best to order it in for you or point you in the right direction.

From art supplies to memory sticks, lunch to toiletries, we stock most essential products needed

throughout the year. If you can not find anything, feel free to ask any of the staff who will kindly help you find it.

We are open five days a week, from early till late, so feel free to pop in and have a look round.


SU ELECTIONS, STUDENT OFFICERS & TRUSTEES

Elections

The Students’ Union is run by students for students. Each year elections are held to elect the Student Officers that will represent you and lead your Students’ Union for the next year.

This means that each year you have the chance to have a say in what your Students’ Union is and does- either by standing for a position within the Students’ Union or by using your vote to elect the people that you think will represent you the best.

Either way it’s important that you get involved and play your part to shape your Union and your time here at the University of Bolton.

Student Officers

Eunice Dabo & Muhammad Riaz (Raz)

As Bolton SU Student Officers we were elected to represent you at our 2014 elections. As well as having our own specific roles as Campaigns and Welfare Officer (Eunice Dabo) and Marketing and Communication Officer (Muhammad Riaz) we are here to support your President Arthur Kaddu in representing all of you to the university.

You will see us out and about on campus working with Arthur to find out what is important to you

and what we can do to help you while you are studying here at the University of Bolton.

This year we will be making sure that you all know how to register to vote in the General Election in May 2015 – registering to vote is changing this year and we don’t want you to miss out on having your chance to shape the next Government. There are many issues that will be important to students discussed at these elections.

If you have an issue that is important to you then please come and speak to one of us – we can only help if we know there is a problem.

Being part of the SU is really empowering so if you want to know more about getting involved in the Students’ Union and the benefits you can gain

from being part of the Students Union – call in for a chat!

Eunice and Raz

Student Trustees

We will soon be holding Elections for our Board of Trustees – this is how you can have a massive say in shaping the future of your SU.

We’re looking for students who can help us become a better union, help us to set our budgets and oversee our finances, and also make sure that the Student Officers (Arthur, Eunice and Raz) are doing their jobs properly.


NUS EXTRA CARD

NUS Extra cards are a student’s best friend. They offer unbelievable discounts across thousands of stores up and down the country. To the left are just a few of many available discounts.

NUS – get your NUS Card form the SU Office in Chancellors Mall, it’s only £12 for 12 months worth of discounts. The SU can print your card there and then so no waiting to get those discounts!!

The benefit of buying your cards from the SU reception is that you will get it instantly. If you order online it can take up to two weeks.

Should any issues arise the SU it here to help and if for any reason we can’t help you we will find somebody that can.

www.cards.nusextra.co.uk


WHAT YOU GET FROM US

For students: •We represent you, understand any problems that you have and work to get rid of them •We put on sports clubs and societies. •We give you free advice on housing, finances and academic issues. •We run the course rep system to improve your course. •We run a shop and a bar to make things cheaper for you and so you can have a great time on campus.

For our volunteers: (including sports club captains, society presidents, student reps, etc): •We give you an induction into your role . •We give you a certificate at the end, to say you’ve done it. •We support you throughout your time as a volunteer •By being a volunteer you will instantly improve you CV as you will gain many transferable skills, this will help when the time comes to look for a job.


NOTES

Want to get in touch? come to our office at: Chancellors Mall

send us an email: [email protected] or call us on: 01204 900 850

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