Elections Information Pack 2011

What’s missing from your university

experience?

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

Information PackEverything you need to know about the

Students’ Union elections

www.angliastudent.com/elections

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

INTRODUCTION: WHY RUN IN THE ELECTIONS? Could you be the voice of 31,000 students?


Welcome to the Union Elections Information Pack. Contained in this pack is everything you need to know about running in the elections, what the job entails and how to go about starting your campaign. We are here to help you, if you want a member of union staff to go through this pack with you please just ask. You may have just started thinking about running for a Union Executive Officer position or have wanted to do this for years, either way you have already made a great decision! Becoming an Officer for the Students’ Union is one of the most rewarding and satisfying things you can do during or after your studies. Not only do you get a great CV-enhancing experience and learn really useful transferable skills but even better than that you get to rise to the challenge of representing 31,000 Anglia Ruskin students at the highest levels. You will get to work with lively, creative people in a fun atmosphere, you will make decisions to shape the Students’ Union and you will influence the decisions made by the University.

As a Full time Union Executive Officer you are responsible for the day to day running of the Union and its long-term strategic planning. You manage your own time a lot and you get a real taste of organisational management and how to work as part of a team. You also have plenty of opportunities to develop your negotiation and people skills and you gain a real insight into politics and social issues. You get to campaign on real student issues and make a difference to students’ lives! The job is great when you finish University as it acts as a link between study and a career by providing you with fantastic training and experience second to none. Not everybody gets the chance to run a multi-million pound membership organisation before they’ve even graduated but this is your chance to do just that! The skills and rewards that you gain from these roles is directly related to the effort and commitment you put in. To be a truly successful Officer you need to want a lot more than just something to put on your CV. You need a passion for the Union and the University and most importantly you need to feel strongly about standing up for and representing students. As an Officer you should be able to put aside any personal agendas, really listen to students and always act in their best interests. If you can do this then you will be a fantastic candidate. Get in touch with us as soon as possible and express your interest in running. Matt East President 2009-11

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


SO HOW DOES THIS WHOLE ELECTION PROCESS WORK, AND WHY? The Students’ Union is a democratic membership organisation. This means that the leaders of the Union are chosen by the students, its members. Each year we ask the students of Anglia Ruskin to elect the people (also students) who would best represent their views, this ensures that the Union is always focussed on its members and that focus is never lost. The Process; 1. Read this pack and sign up to our training sessions. 2. Come along to the training sessions (details of where and when are in this pack) and learn how to campaign, write a manifesto and more. 3. Complete the nominations form and hand it in at any SU Office by mid-day on the 23rd February 2011. You will need to have two current Anglia Ruskin students to also add their details to the form, supporting your nomination for the position. You will also be asked to submit your manifesto at the same time. Your manifesto is a one page document which tells students what you want to achieve during your time in office. 4. Campaign! Students will need to vote for you so you’ll need to campaign and tell students why they should vote for you. 5. If you receive the most votes for the position you’re going for you’ll have a job for the next year sorted! This job begins on the 1st July 2011. TRAINING SESSIONS We’ll be running training sessions in both Cambridge and Chelmsford. Transport will be provided to students not based on these campuses. The training sessions are not compulsory but will provide you with valuable information that will prove essential when running your campaigns. Training sessions are open to everyone but we do ask you to let us know if you’re planning on coming so we know how many training materials to produce. You can sign up using the form on our website http://angliastudent.com/election/express_your_interest or e-mail Guy on [email protected] The training sessions are as follows; What is the Union? Friday 4th February 4pm - 6pm (Cambridge & Chelmsford) Providing detailed background into what the Students’ Union is and its purpose as well as financial information. How to write a manifesto and make a publicity video Friday 11th February 4pm - 6pm (Cambridge & Chelmsford) This will give you all you need to know to produce your manifesto plus how to make a publicity video which will be available on the SU website. Public Speaking and what makes a good campaign? Monday 14th February 4pm – 6pm in Chelmsford and Friday 18th February 4pm - 6pm in Cambridge. Learn how to speak confidently and plan a campaign that will help you win! Day in the life Tuesday 22nd February (9.30am - 12.30pm Chelmsford, 2.30pm - 5.30pm Cambridge) If you really want to know what a full time union executive does then this day will show you, it will be great fun and give you’re a real insight into what your future job might involve. All rooms are to be confirmed so please keep an eye on your email (if you’ve signed up) or our website www.angliastudent.com/elections

http://angliastudent.com/election/express_your_interest

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.angliastudent.com/elections

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


CONTENTS 4 WHAT IS A FULL TIME STUDENTS’ UNION EXECUTIVE OFFICER? 5 NUS CONFERENCE DELEGATES 6 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UNION 6 - Our vision and Values 7 - The Role of the Students’ Union 8 - Decision Making in the Union 8 - Union Finances and Charity Registration 9 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY 11 - University Vision and Values 12 - Structure 12 - University Corporate Plan 2009-11 (This is currently in the process of being updated for 2011. Part 2 13 WHAT NEXT? 14 WHAT MAKES A GOOD MANIFESTO? 15 USING VIDEO TO COMMUNICATE WITH STUDENTS 15 WHAT MAKES A GOOD CAMPAIGN? 17 WHAT MAKES A GOOD SPEECH? 18 QUESTION THE CANDIDATES SESSIONS 18 VOTING – WHEN, WHERE & HOW Our contact details; [email protected] Cambridge Chelmsford Room Hel 125 1st Floor Tindal Building 1st Floor, Helmore Building Rivermead Campus East Road Bishops Hall Lane Cambridge Chelmsford, Essex CB1 1PT CM1 1SQ Telephone: 01223 460 008 Telephone: 01245 258178 Peterborough Fulbourn Faculty of Health & Social Care (located off of the student common room) Education Centre Fulbourn Campus, Peterborough District Hospital Victoria House, Thorpe Road Capital Park, Peterborough Fulbourn, Cambridge PE3 6DA CB21 5XA Telephone: 0845 1965560 Telephone: 01223 695365

http://www.angliastudent.com/


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


WHAT IS A FULL TIME STUDENTS’ UNION EXECUTIVE OFFICER? The full time Union Executives are paid a £16,000 salary for a fixed term of 1 year and are either taking a year out whilst studying or have just finished their degree. There are 5 positions in all and they are: President (Cross Campus)The President has overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of the Union. Please contact Matt East [email protected] to find out more Academic Affairs Officer (Cross Campus)The Academic Affairs Officer focuses on academic issues raised through student reps and student surveys like the National Student Survey. Please contact Liz Dobson-McKittrick [email protected] to find out more Communications Officer (Cross Campus)It is the job of the Communications Officer to ensure that the Students’ Union is communicating everything it does effectively. Please contact Simon Ruggles [email protected] to find out more Student Experience Officers (2 posts available - Cambridgeshire and Essex)Each Student Experience Officer is responsible for supporting clubs and societies on their own campuses. They also promote student welfare to ensure that your experience at University is a safe and friendly one. Please contact Kelly Sweeney [email protected] for Cambridgeshire or Maiken Andreasen [email protected] for Essex to find out more Each officer also represents one of the five university faculties; AIBS, FHSC, ALSS, FST, FOE. Which faculty each officer represents is assigned after they have commenced work. Who Is Eligible To Stand? Any full or part time student registered with Anglia Ruskin University. Successful candidates will take up their positions on the 1st July 2011 for one year. What Time Commitment Will I Have To Make? The full time Union Executives are "required to work at least 35 hours a week"; however it is likely that you will want to do more! What Responsibilities Will I Have? All Full time Executive officers shall: • Work to further the Union’s values and strategic priorities as defined in the Union Constitution. • Act as a trustee and major Union office holder of the Students’ Union • Carry out all duties and responsibilities as outlined in the Executive Officers' Terms and Conditions of Service. • Carry out all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Union's Health and Safety Policy. • Carry out all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Union's Equal Opportunities Policy. • Carry out all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Union's Staff/Student Protocol. • Attend the University meetings as outlined in Standing Order 6 of the Constitution. • Refer students to other relevant staff member or elected officer as appropriate. • Carry out any other duties as may be assigned to them from time to time by any relevant Union committee if

reasonably consistent with that Officer's position. • Consider the development of the Union's facilities and services as an integral part of their role. • Spend an appropriate amount of time on each of the University’s core campuses suitable to their role. Full and detailed job descriptions will be available during the training sessions.






Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

NUS CONFERENCE DELEGATES We will be electing NUS conference delegates, so what is an NUS Conference delegate? Firstly, lets explain what is the NUS is;

Around 600 students’ unions across the country are currently affiliated to the National Union of Students (NUS) and Anglia Ruskin Students’ Union is one of them. NUS represent the interests of over seven million students in further and higher education across the UK. Affiliation to NUS makes the Union part of a national movement and gives us benefits from the wide range of services they offer. NUS run campaigns throughout the year from free education to free prescriptions, from fighting for the rights of disabled students to representing those who rent student accommodation. You might want to check out the NUS website nus.org.uk to get an idea of national student issues and see what campaigns are currently running to help you with your manifesto. What is a National Conference Delegate? Every year the Students' Union sends delegates to the Annual Conference held by the National Union of Students (NUS). At this conference representatives from every students' union affiliated to NUS debate national policy and can have a say on issues that affect every single student in the country including top-up fees, student discounts and healthcare for students. If you think you could represent students at Anglia Ruskin on a national stage making decisions that affect every single one of the 7 million students in the UK then this is for you. If you are running for a full-time position and wish to attend National Conference you will also need to fill in a separate nominations pack to nominate yourself for a National Conference Delegate position. Who Is Eligible To Stand? Any full or part-time student registered with Anglia Ruskin University. You may also stand for NUS National Conference Delegate in addition to standing for a Sabbatical or Part-time position. What Time Commitment Will I Have To Make? 12th – 14th April 2011, Northumbria Students’ Union (Transport and accommodation provided) What Responsibilities Will I Have? If elected you will be part of a team of five delegates attending the NUS Annual Conference from the 12th – 14th April 2011. The Conference is held in Newcastle and requires your attendance for the three days. When you're not on Conference floor it's a great chance to socialise and network with students from all around the country. For more information on the National Union of Students visit www.nus.org.uk


http://www.nus.org.uk/

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UNION – our Vision and Values

Putting you first to make your Anglia Ruskin experience the best it can be

Mission:Our promise to you

Representation Experience Communication

Sustainability Relevance People

We will be a national leader in student representation

We will develop campus-relevant

student activities and entertainments

We will use relevant methods to research

student opinion, decide action and provide feedback

We will grow financially stable

services and diversify income

We will evolve to meet our students’ changing needs

We are Investors in People

Strategic Priorities:We will:

Representative Democratic Independent

Campaigning Accessible Innovative

We are:Our values

We listen, and are responsive, to the

wants and needs of all Anglia Ruskin students

We are student led through our

democratic structures including elections,

referenda and councils

We are a separate organisation from

the University, led by elected officers and supported by Union

permanent and student staff

We campaign for change on issues that

students tell us are important to them

We are transparent and honest, easy to

get involved with and inclusive of all students

at Anglia Ruskin

We are national leaders in providing relevant services in new and creative

ways


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

THE ROLE OF THE STUDENTS’ UNION The Students’ Union primarily exists to represent, serve and support each and every Anglia Ruskin Student with the aim of enhancing their University experience. 'Putting you first' is the tagline at the forefront of the Union's objectives and we provide many different services to ensure students at Anglia Ruskin University (the unions members) are well represented and their voice is heard. Democracy and democratic structures are really important to the Students’ Union which is why so much emphasis is placed on the elections. However we are aware that sometimes these subjects can seem a little dry or dull. Nevertheless this democracy is the very essence of the Union and is essential to its success. The Union is run by a team of 5 annually elected full-time Executive Officers and a number of Part-time executive officers. These elected officers exist to represent and put forward the views of all students at Anglia Ruskin University. The full time and part time executive discuss both academic and social issues concerning the Union and its membership (students). They debate all sorts of student issues, campaigns, clubs and societies’ issues, welfare issues and finances. The executive work with the support and expertise of full and part-time permanent staff. These officers and staff work closely together to constantly evaluate and update the services the Union provides. These services include a free, fully independent and impartial Advice Service that can be the first port of call for any student at Anglia Ruskin with any problem. It is also the job of the Students' Union to coordinate the Student Course Reps; work with and support them at Faculty meetings and assist with any problems they may voice. The sports teams, societies and the Cambridge gym are also run by the Students’ Union. Anglia Ruskin Students' Union also runs its own Bars, Shops and Entertainment Facilities. SUEI (The Students’ Union Evaluation Initiative) The Students’ Union has recently completed a process called the Students’ Union Evaluation Initiative (SUEI). SUEI was developed to make a positive difference to the lives of students at university, by improving the outcomes from their students’ unions. It has made us think critically about everything we do and more importantly why we do things, and who does it benefit.

Since being involved in SUEI, we have made some significant and very beneficial changes throughout the university.

In June we were awarded a Silver SUEI award putting us amongst the best students’ unions in the country. We are the first multi-site union to receive the award and one of only a very few to receive the silver standard.

The Constitution The Constitution is a document that sets out the fundamentals of how the Union operates. Everything that the Union does is governed by this document. The Constitution is a working document and as new situations and problems arise the Constitution is updated. For a copy of the Constitution please see http://angliastudent.com/yourunion/the_constitution A training session will be taking place in Cambridge and Chelmsford on Friday 4th February 4pm – 6pm. In this training session you will be given extra information about the Students’ Union and its finances. CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE AT THE TRAINING HERE. The location of the training will be confirmed closer to the date.


http://angliastudent.com/yourunion/the_constitution

http://angliastudent.com/election/training_sessions

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


DECISION MAKING IN THE UNION Trustees The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the Students’ Union and consists of the five full time Executive Officers, four Student Trustees and four External Trustees. The Union’s General Manager also attends Board meetings and acts as the Chief Executive of the Union, reporting on the activities of the Union and implementing strategy agreed by the Board. The Board meets four times a year, on alternate campuses, and is the ultimate decision-making body of the Union. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the control and management of the Students’ Union and each Trustee has collective responsibility for all policy decisions of the Union which affect the students of Anglia Ruskin University. The Trustees… • Take legal responsibility for decisions and the implications of such decisions. • Monitor the performance of the Union in meeting-agreed objectives to further the aims of the organisation. • Ensure that the Union complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant

legislation or regulations. • Ensure the Union uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives: the charity must not spend money

on activities which are not included in its own objectives, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are.

• Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to the Union, setting overall strategy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

• Safeguard the good name and values of the Union. • Ensure the financial stability of the Union. • Protect and manage the property of the charity and ensure proper investment of the charity’s funds. • Appoint the General Manager and monitor his / her performance UNION FINANCES AND CHARITY REGISTRATION How good are you at budgeting your money? Try budgeting a block grant! Every year, the Students’ Union receives a sum of money from the university called a “block grant”. This grant funds everything the Union does, from paying wages and bills, funding campaigns and training student reps. The Union also runs trading activities which aim to make a small surplus to reinvest in services to members. As the Union is a not-for-profit organisation, we are committed to making our services good value for money and competitive against competitors on the High Street. The Students’ Union financial reports are produced by the General Manager, and are then signed off by the trustees. Annual and interim accounts are also discussed with the University's Director of Finance to ensure we are accountable for the money the University allocates to us. What is Charity Registration and how will it affect you? This year, students’ unions across the country will be registering as charities due to a change in the law. This means that the Union will be restructured to comply with charity law. Currently the SU is classified as an “Unincorporated association with exempt charitable status”. This has several drawbacks when applying for grants and requesting funds from other organisations. Registering as a charity means that in the future we will be able to request grants and funds from places such as the Lottery Commission, which could hugely benefit our members. The current unincorporated status means that trustees have unlimited liability. We are hoping to change this by becoming a charitable company in the next year. This will limit the liability of trustees and protect their personal assets better. To become a charitable company is a very long process. The sabbatical team are currently re-writing the whole Students’ Union constitution as well as schedules to make sure these comply with the new law. As an Executive officer it is very important that you have a clear understanding of the constitution and your responsibilities. You will receive full training on this, if you are successfully elected.

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY You may find the following information useful when you are planning your elections campaign. Knowing about the University, its vision and values and structure should give you a wider picture of the University and help you to produce a better manifesto. Facts And Figures • Campuses at Cambridge, Chelmsford, Peterborough and Fulbourn • Awarded university status in 1992 • Total student population of approximately 31,000 • One of the largest universities in the country • The largest provider of part-time higher education in the country, after the Open University • One of the highest University populations of mature students (65%) • One of the most significant suppliers of nurses and teachers in the UK • Several local and international partner institutions (Courses run by or validated by Anglia Ruskin University) Demographics The student population at Anglia Ruskin University is extremely diverse and often the statistics can be a bit of a surprise to many. The summaries below should give you a broader of how and where students at Anglia Ruskin University study and help you to create a manifesto and a campaign that is relevant to all of our students.

Where ARU Students Study 2009/10 (not including International Collaborative Partners)

Cambridge ChelmsfordRegional Collaborative PartnersBelstead, IpswichCambridge Regional CollegeCambridge Theological FederationChelmsford College of FEEpping Forest CollegeHarlow CollegeHuntingdonshire CollegeLondon School of OsteopathySEEVICThurrock and Basildon College

Joint VenturesCambridge Theological FederationUniversity Centre Kings LynnUniversity Centre Peterborough

Distance Learners

10436 9025

1200

1066

603


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

AIBS 3312

ALSS 4206

FHSC 7566

FT 2284

FT 3553

FT 3744

FT 903

FT 2623

PT 1028

PT 653

PT 3822

PT 1419

PT 2388

FULL TIME PART TIME

FoE 23222322

SIZE Mode of study by faculty

S&T 50115011


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


University Vision and Values Vision • We are passionate about the advancement of knowledge and the education of students. • We take university education in imaginative new directions. • We are important to the region and want to be viewed in the UK and internationally as exceptional. • Our key contribution is to the enhancement of social, cultural and economic wellbeing.

Specifically, we are working to ensure that: • Nine out of ten students would recommend us to a friend. • Each Faculty's teaching receives public endorsement of its quality overall and is recognised as a UK leader in

one or more of its disciplines. • Each Faculty hosts one or more international standard research centres. • 25% of our activity is at postgraduate level and we award at least 50 PhDs across at least 10 disciplines each

year. • We educate an equal number of students off-site and on-site, through remote delivery partnerships at home

and abroad, and distance learning. • Anglia Ruskin at Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin at Chelmsford are known as magnets for overseas students and

20% of our UK campus-based students are from outside the EU. • Every student may study entrepreneurship and 10% of our students choose self employment when they leave

us. • Every year, we help at least 2000 organisations with Knowledge Exchange in particular, through a range of on-

campus business incubator facilities. • We are recognised for successful innovation in the way in which services are provided and for imaginative new

learning environments. • We are champions of employer and community engagement. • We readily attract talented staff and prepare everyone to achieve our goals through continuing staff

development. Values

• A sense of belonging. We are proud to be part of Anglia Ruskin University. We know that lifelong relationships are formed here.

• Academic ambition. We want our teaching and research to be excellent. We are determined that our students and staff will realise their full potential.

• Innovation. We are purposeful, challenging and curious about our world. We are prepared to do things differently. We are creative, entrepreneurial and bring enthusiasm to everything we do.

• Supporting each other. We are friendly and inclusive, and celebrate individuality and diversity. We support and encourage everyone, and strive hard to anticipate and meet needs and aspirations.

• Honesty and openness. We operate with integrity, trust and respect for each other and we deliver on our promises. We share ideas, information and challenges and we seek out views and opinions.

• Concern for the environment. We want our concern for a sustainable environment to inform every aspect of what we do.

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


Structure University Management Structure (The Decision Makers) Board of Governors The Vice Chancellor The Vice Chancellors Group Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Scholarship and Development) Deputy Vice Chancellor (Advanced Systems) Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Director of Finance Secretary and Clerk The University has five faculties and each has its own Dean: Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Science Faculty of Science and Technology Faculty of Education Faculty of Health and Social Care Ashcroft International Business School University Corporate Plan 2009-11 (This is currently in the process of being updated for 2011. Objective 1: 9 out of 10 students would recommend us to a friend Objective 2: Each faculty’s teaching receives public endorsement of its quality overall and is recognised as a UK leader in one or more of it’s disciplines. Objective 3: Each faculty hosts one or more international standard research centres Objective 4: 25% of activity is at postgraduate level and we award at least 50 PhDs across at least 10 disciplines each year Objective 5: We educate an equal number of students off-site and on-site, through remote delivery partnerships at home and abroad, and through distance learning Objective 6: Anglia Ruskin at Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin at Chelmsford are known as magnets for overseas students and 20% of our campus based students are from outside the EU Objective 7: Every student may study entrepreneurship and 10% of our students choose self-employment when they leave us Objective 8: Every year, we help at least 2,000 organisations with Knowledge Exchange in particular, with a range of on-campus business incubator facilities Objective 9: We are recognised for successful innovation for the way in which services are provided and for imaginative new learning environments Objective 10: We are champions of employer and community engagement

Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

WHAT NEXT? I hope the information above has given you enough background knowledge to decide what position to run for and what the Union is about. If you want to come and chat to me or any member of Union staff please get in touch using the contact details at the front of this booklet. Being a full time executive officer is a hugely rewarding job that I have thoroughly enjoyed literally every moment of. It will give you a fantastic understanding of how the University runs, and give you an edge in the professional world. After all, how many students can say they are a trustee of a Union? The satisfaction that you will receive from this job is amazing; and you are making the first steps to experiencing it yourself. The next few pages have been designed to give you the tools and knowledge you will need to campaign successfully, so that you actively promote yourself and get yourself votes. A misconception within elections is people believe it is a popularity contest predominantly. I believe that results in previous elections show this is not the case at all! Our diverse student demographic will want to see manifesto points that will benefit them in certain ways, and you will need to strongly consider this when campaigning. Do all students who commute onto campus need a 24 hour bar? Do students studying one day a week off-campus need a better library? These are the kind of things you will want to consider when campaigning. The best bit of advice I can give to anyone while running in the elections, is be yourself, talk to as many people as possible, and remember anyone you see walking around could be a student. I wish you all the best of luck, and see you all at the count! Matt East SU President 2009-11


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


WHAT MAKES A GOOD MANIFESTO? What Is A Manifesto? A manifesto is a compulsory, formal document that outlines who you are, why you are running for office and what you plan to do should you be elected. It gives voters who haven’t met you the information they need to make an informed decision about who to vote for. Your manifesto will be put on the Students’ Union website and will be available at ballot stations, but you can also use it throughout your campaign. A training session will be taking place in Cambridge and Chelmsford on Friday 11th February 4pm – 6pm. In this training session you will also be shown how to record a manifesto video, an essential item during your campaign. CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE AT THE TRAINING HERE. The location of the training will be confirmed closer to the date. What Should I Include In My Manifesto? Your Name This should be most prominent. Remember that only your name will appear on the ballot paper and when voters see that name you want them to remember who you are and that you’re worth voting for. The Position You Are Running For Make sure your manifesto clearly states the position you’re running for and ensure that all the information in your manifesto relates to this position. A Good Picture This can go anywhere on your manifesto although most candidates favour towards the top. People like to see who they’re voting for. Passport photos don’t really look great so try and find something that reflects your personality or maybe the role in question. About You Tell the voters a bit about yourself; maybe who you are, where people might know you from, why you’re running for the position and so on. Outline what you would bring to the job, if you have experience in the Union already and any other relevant experience. Most importantly outline your policies and pledges; what do you hope to achieve in your role, and how? Hints And Tips • Ensure your manifesto is well researched and prepared; this will help you be realistic with your pledges. • Try not to base your manifesto on your personal issues or experiences and don’t make assumptions about what

students’ issues are; ask them! • Remember that Anglia Ruskin University is a diverse institution; think about the needs of all sorts of different

students. • Don’t use vast amounts of text; the words on a manifesto are important but it is better when they are used

sparingly and statements are clear and succinct. • Don’t assume that the person reading your manifesto has any prior knowledge of elections or the Union • Ensure your manifesto is within the guidelines • You must keep your manifesto to one side of A4 • Try to co-ordinate all your campaign material so that your manifesto relates to any posters, flyers or banners you

produce. • Check your spelling and grammar thoroughly before you hand-in your manifesto and get others to take a look

too. Once you’ve handed it in, you can spell your own name wrong, but we won’t be able to change it! • Don’t hand in your nominations and manifesto at the last minute. You will find it very stressful, and so will the

people in the SU!


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

USING VIDEO TO COMMUNICATE WITH STUDENTS You also have the opportunity to create a 1 minute video to be placed on the Students’ Union website, again to allow students who study part-time or at a distance a chance to see why you are running in the elections. We highly recommend you do this! The Students’ Union can provide you with the computers, video equipment and support you may need to create a video, simply pop into any of the offices and our staff will be happy to help. This will be covered at the ‘Manifesto’ training session as mentioned above. Once you have created a video you can either upload it to youtube.com or vimeo.com yourself or ask the Students’ Union to do it for you, the Students’ Union reserves the right to remove videos that are considered to be a breach of our equal opportunities policy which can be found on page 15 of this pack. WHAT MAKES A GOOD CAMPAIGN? When Do I Campaign? You can start campaigning and putting up elections materials the day after nominations have closed, which is Thursday 24th February at 9.00am. During the balloting period your campaigning should peak. How Should I Campaign? Posters Make your posters bold and bright, ensuring they are easy to read and don’t have vast amounts of text. Tell voters the basics in a poster: who you are, what position you are running for, where to find your manifesto and when/how to vote. You might want to include a picture and maybe think about linking the design and style with your manifesto and other campaign materials. You must bring your election posters to the SU Offices to be stamped. Ths authorises them as being appropriate to the elections (i.e. non-defamatory and within Equal Opportunities Guidelines). Use the designated Students’ Union elections poster display boards in the SU activities centres, offices, shops and faculties. Flyers Flyers are useful to give to people after you have spoken to them as a permanent reminder of who you are and when/how to vote. However it is best not to not just hand out flyers randomly; try to engage with people as well. It is strictly prohibited to leave leaflets lying around social areas on campus. Banners/Boards Your campaigns budget is limited so creative and resourceful approaches to campaigning are needed and past years have seen both boards and banners used by candidates. You might be able to get some off-cuts or used tins of paint from a DIY store or you can sometimes pick up bed-sheets really cheaply from supermarkets or charity shops. Remember though, materials must not obstruct throughways or fire exits or present risks (e.g. trip hazards). Any unconventional or large materials will require consent from the University Estates department before display. We can help with this so please let us know.


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

Social Networking ‘Facebook’ and other social networking sites are becomingly increasingly used for campaigning. These sites are certainly a good way to reach lots of people and to hold forums for discussion about students’ issues. However don’t rely on these sites to convince people to vote and don’t take too much notice of the numbers of people who join yours’ or others’ groups as this gives no real indication of who they will vote for. Also, don’t forget that the same elections rules regarding campaign materials apply to these sites and consider your own privacy during this period.

Go Out And Talk! Going out and talking to all sorts of different students is by far THE SINGLE MOST EFFECTIVE way to campaign and is essential for winning votes. You can have the best looking posters, flyers and banners by far but this is no substitute for actually engaging people and inspiring them to vote. You might want to ask lecturers if you are able to speak at the end of a lecture and get your supporters to do the same or simply walk around the campus stopping to chat to people. It is difficult to approach people you don’t know and some students may not want to listen to you but persevere and not only will you win votes but also get to hear other students’ views not just those of your friends or peers. Code of Conduct You and any supporting teams are held by a code of conduct which requires you to behave responsibly and within certain guidelines. For example during balloting, you (and your supporters) are not permitted within the immediate vicinity of official ballot stations, other than to cast your own vote. Every student is entitled to a confidential vote and a free choice and should a candidate be accused of infringing these rights, complaints against them will be taken most seriously. You are expected to respect the rules of study spaces such as the library and are asked not to disturb students or staff. Hints And Tips • Be as inventive as possible with campaign materials to get yourself noticed; people get poster blind. • Use your budget effectively and keep track of what you’re spending; do NOT spend any of your own money. • If you ‘blag’ something you need to produce evidence that any other candidate might also have the same

opportunity. • Try to coordinate all of your elections materials so they are consistent and contain a clear message. • It is easy to just speak to people you know whilst campaigning but you already have their vote so push yourself

to speak to students you don’t know too! • If people really don’t want to talk to you, take the hint and move on! • Make sure all promotional materials, including posters, are taken down at the close of balloting; all campuses

should be clear of promotional material by the count. Campaign within the rules and guidelines, any candidate found to be in breach of elections regulations is at risk of jeopardising their campaign.


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE


WHAT MAKES A GOOD SPEECH? When Will I Need To Make A Speech? You will need to make a speech at the ‘Question the Candidate’ session which is where all candidates have the opportunity to speak for 3 minutes about who they are, what position they are running for and why. You can also take the time to briefly outline your policies and pledges for the year should you be elected. What Should I Consider Before Making My Speech? Content Make sure you do your research; think about everything you want to include in your speech, make sure you really know what you’re talking about and put it into a logical order. Never make the assumption that listeners have any prior knowledge of elections or the Students’ Union. Ensure you are realistic in the pledges you are making, talk about real issues and the things you believe will positively change students’ university experience Presentation Think about your appearance; first impressions are everything! You don’t necessarily have to be in your smartest clothes; confidence comes from what you’re comfortable in or you may want to wear a campaign t-shirt. Delivery Try not to read from a script, using notes should ensure that you look up more. If you really have to use a script make sure you know it well and have read it aloud several times so that you can look up as much as possible. Speak clearly and at a steady pace. Make sure you take a deep breath before you begin and identify places throughout your speech where you can check your breathing again. Try to avoid becoming monotone and emphasise the key points of your speech by changing the tone in your voice. Avoid saying ‘uummm’ if you can; when someone hesitates listeners become less convinced that the speaker is clear in what they are talking about. This is easier said than done, especially if you are nervous, however try instead to take a breath and relax for a moment. Body Language Body language can make a big difference during a speech; not only to the way you come across but also to the way you feel. Always stand up straight, hold your head up high, keep your eyes on your audience and don’t hide behind the microphone. Not only will this hide your nerves from the audience but it can make you feel more confident. Use gestures to your advantage by emphasising key points, but don’t be over the top; you don’t want to look like a mime artist. Using strong and powerful hand motions down shows the point you are making is important. Using a horizontal slow movement of the hands shows unity and that the point you are making affects everyone. Take a look at yourself in the mirror whilst practising or even film yourself to see what habits you have. Avoid crossing your arms (this puts a barrier between you and the viewer), touching your face (which shows worry) and with playing with your hair. If your hands do tend to fiddle or shake, try and place them on something like your notes or the podium/ microphone. Hints and Tips • Think about your potential audience and identify their needs. Appeal to their emotional side to and raise issues

that might really be affecting them. • Beware of making jokes or using humour; some people can pull this off, others really can’t! • Rehearse! Try out your speech in front of the mirror, in front of friends and make sure you time yourself. • Try to enjoy yourself; you only have the platform for 2 minutes so embrace it! • Bring some supporters to the speech that way you will have at least one or two friendly faces in the audience. • Keep your focus; try to make eye contact with the audience but don’t let this put you off and ignore any noise

or laughter. A training session will be taking place in Cambridge on Friday 18th February 4pm – 6pm and Chelmsford and Chelmsford on Monday 14th February 4pm – 6pm. In this training session you will be taught some very valuable public speaking skills, as well as how to run a good campaign. CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE AT THE TRAINING HERE. The location of the training will be confirmed closer to the date.


Elections

Deadline 23rd Feb

NOMINATEElections

7th - 10th March

VOTE

QUESTION THE CANDIDATES SESSIONS “Question the Candidates” sessions will take place as follows: Chelmsford: Thursday 24th February 4.30 – 6.30pm (Location TBC) Cambridge: Monday 28th February 4.30 – 6.30pm in the Academy, Helmore. Transport to each of the campuses will be provided for candidates. OFFICIAL CANDIDATES’ MEETINGS Official Candidates’ Meetings will take place via video conference on Wednesday 23rd February at 5pm and the 4th March at 5pm (if required). All candidates must attend these meetings and rooms will be confirmed in due course. VOTING – WHEN, WHERE & HOW When? Students can vote from Monday 7th March until Thursday 10th March There will be the opportunity for students to vote both online and by paper. This is because we have a large number of students who study from home and may not be on campus during the voting period. Keeping the paper vote helps build up excitement around the elections. Where? Cambridge Students’ Union Office, 1st Floor Helmore & Library Entrance TBC Open 10am – 5.00pm, Monday to Wednesday and 10.00am – 2.00pm on Thursday. Chelmsford Ground Floor Tindal Building & Ashcroft Reception Open 8.30am – 3.30am, Monday to Wednesday and 10.00am – 2.00pm on Thursday. Peterborough Students’ Union Office, Thorpe Road Room 8 Open 10.00am – 3.00pm, Monday to Wednesday and 10.00am -2.00pm on Thursday. University Centre Peterborough Students’ Union desk in main foyer

Fulbourn Main Reception, Victoria House Open 10.00pm – 3.00pm, Monday to Wednesday and 10.00am – 2.00pm on Thursday. Exact times are subject to change, please refer to the elections section on our website to keep up to date. How? When students are voting, either on paper or online, they are asked to use a system called single transferable voting. This system allows candidates with the majority of backing, whether they are voted as first or second choice, to be elected in meaning it is more representative. For more information on how to cast a single transferable vote please visit www.angliastudent.com/elections


http://www.angliastudent.com/elections

Documents

Elections Information Pack 2011