What a first term!! It has been very busy. I have met a lot of reps during the training sessions which has given me a chance to discuss inital and potential issues on your course. I have also been talking to university staff and students about the academic manifesto, which has been very well received by all.  You can see the university's official response on the manifesto page. Although the university are in agreement about our points, it is still important for students to lobby for change and work with lecturers at ground level.

You may also be aware of the Student Strike on the 30th November. This was very successful in raising awareness about how the cuts to education affect all students, both while studying and when they are looking for employment as BCU graduates. Prior to the strikes there were 2 demos in London. The Jarrow march was on the 5th November and was about the lack of employment for young people and the extent to which we get exploited in the workforce with unpaid interships with little chance of paid employment with the company after. The March on 9th November was for Anti Fees and Cuts which was to show the government that we are still unhappy with the decisions that have been made and that we are not going to accept it.

At the start of term we set up a Student Parent Group to provide additional support for students with children. In the new year we are going to hold an event in the morning of 10th (City North) and 17th (City South) January 8.30-10pm. Please email me for more information. Working with a student and student services, a Student Carers forum has also been set up on icity to support students who care for family members suffering from long term illnesses.

The new term will see the launch of 'Let's Get Cooking' and student employment in the university. Watch this space for more information...

See you in 2012!!