OUR STUDENTS
Our priorities are to:
Ensure a fair and transparent system of student representation that provides students with the opportunity to shape their educational and extra-curricular experience.
Working in partnership with the Students’ Union, we will ensure the development of open, transparent and accessible democratic structures for student representation at all levels. We will review and refine our system for representation at course, departmental and faculty level, seeking involvement and feedback from students to inform the future development of educational curricula and of academic and pastoral support services. We will continue to ensure student involvement in key decision-making bodies including Senate and Council.
Support a vibrant, active and democratic Students’ Union.
We see the University of Bristol Students’ Union as a vital element of the student experience, in providing the voice of students within the University, in the local community and at national level, and in fostering a diverse and cohesive student community. We will provide financial support and a physical environment for the Union that is fit for purpose and that meets students’ social, cultural and recreational needs.
Ensure the provision of learning and skills opportunities that enhance students’ future employability.
We will provide access to a wide range of quality information and careers advice to help students understand and develop the necessary skills to equip them for whatever they choose after graduation. In addition to skills acquisition through their academic programmes and together with the Students’ Union development unit, we will offer students opportunities for personal development which will enhance their prospects for future employability.
Offer a rewarding extra-curricular experience that provides for students’ health, well-being and personal development.
In addition to ensuring an excellent teaching and learning experience, we will offer a range of opportunities that enable students to develop as individuals, and provide an environment that promotes a proactive approach to health and well-being. Through the Students’ Union, our students will be given opportunities to join over 200 different clubs and societies, encompassing both academic and social interests. They will also be able to participate in sporting activities for all levels, from beginners to talented athletes, and in exercise and health programmes, and to take part in a wide range of community volunteering programmes, working closely with the University. We will recognise outstanding achievement across these activities.
Provide advice and support for students’ personal welfare and ensure effective integration into the University and local community.
We will ensure student welfare through the provision of high-quality student services including health services; counselling; a chaplaincy; specialist provision for disabled students; sport and exercise facilities, and financial advice, as well as by supporting the Students’ Union in its aspiration to provide independent advice and support to students. We will offer a residential experience for at least the first year for both home and international students that will foster the development of diverse, cosmopolitan student communities. We will provide pastoral support to ensure their successful transition into university life. We will encourage students to achieve effective integration as residents into the local community.
Our progress and achievements against these priorities will be measured through:
- Student feedback from the National Student Survey, the International Student Barometer and other local, national and international surveys, as well as regular dialogue through committees and other fora.
- Monitoring of internal strategic performance indicators relating to student satisfaction.
Further information about our objectives, planned actions and performance indicators with regard to students can be found in our Education Strategy.