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Guild of Students newsletterEdition 5 - April 2012
Guild secures second gold Green Impact!
The Guild is celebrating after being awarded a gold Green Impact award for the second year running.
The environmental accreditation scheme, run by the NUS (National Students’ Union), brings staff and students together to implement environmentally responsible initiatives and promote all things ‘green’.
Having demonstrated our commitment to waste management, electricity efficiency and training for elected representatives, students and staff, the Guild achieved gold for its commitment to the environment.
Hugo, your Vice President (Democracy & Resources) comments: “I’m delighted we have been awarded gold once again in this year’s NUS Green Impact Scheme. This is testament to the commitment and dedication that the Guild of Students has to environmental and green issues.
“We have maintained our status as a leading green students’ union and our members can be proud that the Guild is able to demonstrate such achievements in an area which is crucial to our sustainable future.”
Dannie Grufferty, NUS Vice-President (Society and Citizenship), said: “The quality of entrants into this year’s awards was exceptional and all the winners should be very proud of themselves. They’ve set a great example for those around them and have made a real progress for environmental sustainability.
“Students’ unions have often long been at the forefront of environmental campaigning and since 2005, NUS Green Impact has been helping students’ unions to green themselves, their universities and their communities.”
Focus On…Theology Society, Article 19 and Sikh Society, Exam Stress and new Joe’s + card…
Community Wardens brighten up community play centreYoung children at the Coronation Road Play Scheme, Selly Oak, can enjoy a brighter and more colourful centre thanks to the Community Wardens.
The Wardens began the community project just last month, and with the help of the children who attend the after school club have since revamped tables, benches and fencing with a fresh lick of paint.
Visiting the centre weekly, the Community Wardens have also encouraged and involved the children in other arts and crafts activities, and have plans to paint the Dawlish Road wall with their pictures.
Zuki Majuuqwana, Vice President (Community & Housing) comments: “This is just another fantastic example of the Community Wardens reaching out and
interacting with the local community.
“We hope to soon host a quiz in a bid to source additional support for this vital scheme and raise awareness of the Coronation Road Play Scheme amongst students and local residents alike.”
‘We’re all ears…’Is your mind in a revision muddle and the stress of exams getting to you? Do you feel you need to let off some steam and take a break?
The Student Mentor Scheme can provide students living in University accommodation with a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to come and air any worries or concerns you may have.
If you need help with revision strategies and tips, managing your time more effectively, or simply need to get away from your books and take a break, then come and talk to a Student Mentor or Student Support Advisor. They have been there and can help you get through this challenging period.
We will be holding appointments between 4-6pm every weekday in May.
To book an appointment please email [email protected] or call 0121 257 4490.
Summer Jobs and Volunteering FairDon’t miss the last Jobs and Volunteering Fair of the year taking place between 11am and 3pm on Wednesday 30th May in the Common Room, Guild of Students.
Meet employers recruiting for last-minute summer work and part-time jobs, plus meet with the Job Centre which will be on hand with additional vacancies.
There will be volunteering opportunities on offer too in a variety of sectors, with charities and not for profit organisations attending. You’ll also be able to get Information on tax or working as self-employed from the HMRC (HM Revenue & Customs), and advice on employment rights from the TUC (Trade Unions Congress).
Lastly, the University Careers and Employability Centre will be on hand to offer advice and support with job hunting, including CV checks, so bring yours along with you.
Student
Mentor
SchemeTweet of the Month
@Gopi_Kang - Still on such a high, so proud of @UoBSikhSociety well deserved & amazing to get recognition from the @Guildofstudents
Nominate now for honorary life membershipDo you know someone who has made an outstanding contribution to life within Guild?
This is your chance to nominate them for the Guild of Students Honorary Life Membership. Previous recipients have included past students, university staff and members of the local community. Nominations close on Thursday 25th May at 5pm. Forms can be found at guildofstudents.com
Giving you more for your moneyby Hugo Sumner, Vice President (Democracy & Resources)
Over the Easter break, I‘ve been working with your President and the Venues team to upgrade the Joe’s + card. The new card, which launched on Monday, will offer you more for your money than ever before.
Since its launch the Joe’s + card has saved students more than £38,000 and this number is set to rocket with the new card.
You can upgrade your Joe’s + card now for just £1 and enjoy the discounts until August 31st next year. All existing Joe’s + cards will still be accepted but will expire on 31st August 2012.
Mark’s ColumnWelcome to the fifth edition of GOSip – the last of this year’s Guild of Students’ newsletter.
I hope you are all rested following the Easter break. In the last edition of GOSip you had less than 24 hours to vote in the Officer Team elections, and at the close of the ballot, an impressive 6,161 had voted. I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate my successor, David Franklin on his election. I’d also like to take this chance to say well done to all those who picked up a Guild Award at the annual ceremony last term. The awards night was a true testament to all of your commitment, ability and hard work, and proved once again that the Guild of Students is at the very heart of university life here at Birmingham.
Now that we enter term three, the majority of students, as I’m sure you are very aware, are entering into the dreaded exam and deadline season. It’s natural to feel stressed during this time but please make sure to take time out away from your studies for a breather and a bit of relaxation. I’d like to wish you all the very best of luck at this daunting time.
Whilst exams are the priority, there is still plenty to get involved in this term. For starters we have just launched the better than ever before Joe’s Plus card. The new cards will ensure you get more for your money and better still you can upgrade yours for just £1. Then, come June, the spectacular Grad Ball held on campus where we welcome top name acts, a free funfair, silent disco, bandeoke, and much more. Tickets go on sale Friday 27th April. I can’t wait to see you there!
Best wishes, Mark Harrop
President, Guild of Students
@Guild_President
– by Luke Reynolds,
Vice President (Welfare)
With a year’s worth of work to revise for in a matter of weeks, the exam period can be very stressful. But please don’t worry you’re not alone.
The Student Mentor Scheme can help you through this hectic time. They have a dedicated webpage (guildofstudents.com/examstress) with tips on how to get organised and take time out to relax, and are also giving away free personalised revision profiles, which you can access by visiting facebook.com/studentmentorscheme
For some however, there is more to tackle than the normal stresses of exam period. If you have experienced serious ill health or accident, unforeseen severe financial hardship, or perhaps a family crisis, or bereavement this may affect your ability to perform well in assessments (this includes essays, class tests and final examinations).
But don’t despair, ‘Extenuating circumstances’ (formerly known as ‘mitigations’) is the process of informing your school of circumstances that have affected you throughout the year. There are a number of criteria which you must meet which can be found at guildofstudents.com/arc. It is your sole responsibility to disclose Extenuating Circumstances to your school and to submit the necessary evidence and documentation on time, however the ARC (Advice & Representation Centre) is here to help and for those living in university accommodation, the Student Mentor Scheme.
I’d like to wish you all the best of luck in your exams and deadlines.
KEEPCALM
AND
GOODLUCK
PLUS Card expires: 31/08/13
Further Council Tax Exemption - by Emily Halford, Postgraduate & Mature Students’ Officer
Last month, Birmingham City Council agreed that all Postgraduate Researchers who are in the ‘writing-up’ phase of their PhD will now be exempt from Council Tax during that period. In practical terms this means that they have extended the period of Council Tax exemption for these students from three months to a year so that Postgraduate Researchers can enjoy an additional nine months’ worth of exemption whilst they are writing their thesis.
The Council has also clarified that students who are on a ‘Leave of Absence’ or have suspended their studies in some form but
have not withdrawn from their course (e.g. intercalation) are also exempt during this period.
Birmingham City Council now has a system in place for you to simply check your contact information is up to date on the my.bham portal, if correct you can simply call the Council and apply for an exemption. (Please leave at least two weeks between updating your my.bham details and calling the Council).
Sabbs (and Non-Sabbs) on the Satellite Sofa - by Vici Royle, Satellite Sites Officer
On Thursday of Week 11 last term, I took several Guild Officers to Stratford-Upon-Avon to meet students at the Shakespeare Institute. The Officers were requested by the students of the Institute and had many questions to answer, and comments to receive regarding the way the University and the Guild communicates with the site and its students.
This academic year is the first in a long while that the Guild has really reached out to Satellite Sites students to hear their concerns and to engage them with the many opportunities available.
On the visit, the team was able to pass a message to the Vice President (Housing and Community) regarding council tax for postgraduate students and discuss potential Guild-affiliation for either a new association or for the already successful and historically cultivated (est. 1952~) Shakespeare Institute Players Performance Society. The Satellite Sites Officer-elect looks forward to strengthening the relationship even more with the Shakespeare Institute who are keen to get more involved.
Focus on...
Sikh Society
Established: Over 30 years ago, at least
President: Alex Butler (3rd year History Student) (Our President for next year is Polly Scates)
Article19 in 20 words: Article19 provides the chance for people to get involved in any shape/form of theatre. Fun, ambitious, social, exciting, daring!
Favourite moment/memory so far: Some of the productions in recent years have been simply exceptional. Having such a high standard of plays, be it from us or the other great drama groups here is a testament to the superb ability and talent of Birmingham students.
Greatest achievement/proudest moment: Winning ‘Most Improved Society’ at Guild Awards 2012, and our third consecutive 5 star show at Edinburgh Fringe 2011, Kidnapper’s Guide, which had a five night run in London in September 2011.
What makes Article19 stand out from the rest: We always strive for the highest standard of theatre possible. We are founded upon Article 19 in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.” No previous drama experience is required and our auditions and socials are open to everyone. With each passing term we are constantly trying to provide more to our members be it theatre performances in Birmingham/Stratford/London, or superb student plays to participate in and audition for, or exciting and different socials/fundraisers.
Why get involved with Article19: If you love acting, directing, producing, tech, costume, stage managing or just going to the theatre, then we are (try to be!) the society for you.
Website: a19theatrecompany.co.uk Facebook: ‘Article19’ Twitter: @Article19Drama Email: [email protected]
Focus on...
Article 19
Established: October 2011 President: Heather Ford
TheoSoc in 20 words: TheoSoc aims to bring people together who share an interest in learning about religion and its impact on society.
Favourite moment/memory so far: Organising social nights out and watching people meeting other years in the course and students who do other courses but have an interest in religion. Personalised hoodies for our members - seeing people wear them always makes us smile. Look out for them on campus!
Greatest achievement/proudest moment: Joining the Philosophy Society to arrange a guest lecture by the famous philosopher Richard Swinburne.
What makes TheoSoc stand out from the rest: The common factor between our members is an interest in knowing more about the world’s religions but our focus isn’t restricted to this. We host a variety of activities, from club nights to bowling and ice skating, to thought-provoking guest lectures. Our membership isn’t restricted to students studying the degree; we are a very welcoming bunch, so if anyone is interested in joining, please do!
Why get involved with TheoSoc: We are very welcoming and united under a common purpose but not limited to religions by any means! Whether you are interested in attending our guest lectures or just meeting some more friendly people at the University feel free to join!
Email: [email protected] Facebook: facebook.com/birminghamtheosoc
Focus on...
Theology Society (TheoSoc)
A Special! GET INVOLVED!‘Focus On…’
Established: Early 1990’s President: Rajinder Singh Andev
Sikh Society in 20 words: We unite Sikhs at the University of Birmingham through a variety of ways: sports competitions, discussions and community work!
Greatest achievement: Winning the ‘Outstanding Society’ at the Guild Awards 2012!
What makes Sikh Society stand out from the rest: Langar on Campus is our signature event in which we provide a free meal to 3000 attendees, representing the Sikh tradition of Langar still carried out in Gurdwaras across the world. We work with a variety of societies and with the local community to ensure we provide the best events... 2013 looks like it’s going to be amazing for Sikh Society!
Why get involved with Sikh Society: This year saw record levels of non-Sikhs attending our events, come along to experience our traditions and help make a change to the local community!
Email: [email protected] Facebook & Twitter ‘UoB Sikh Society’
What’s on?Your definitive guide to the very best Guild of Students events and nights out, taking place over the next four weeks…
Friday 27th April
Grad Ball Ticket Sales DayUnderground, Guild of Students (queue starts in Mermaid Square).VIP (Dinner Tickets) from 5pmBall (After Dinner Tickets) from 7pmguildofstudents.com/gradball2012
Saturday 28th April
Fab ‘n’ Fresh at the Guild... the weekend just got better!10pm to 3am. Tickets £4. The Guild’s most popular home-grown event right on your doorstep!Visit: guildtickets.co.uk
Tuesday 1st to Saturday 5th May
GMTG present their summer show ‘Cabaret’7:30pm (and Saturday matinee at 2:30pm) Deb Hall, Guild of Students. Tickets £5-10. ‘Cabaret’ is based on a number of stories from Christopher Isherwood’s 1939 short novel Goodbye to Berlin. It is set in 1931 Berlin as the Nazis are rising to power and focuses on the nightlife at the Kit Kat Klub.
Wednesday 2nd May
Better Education & University Forum2pm at Rosa Parks, Guild of Students.From course content to representation and plagiarism, the Better Education and University Forum covers every aspect of your university experience.
Thursday 3rd May
Better Guild & Welfare Forum6pm at Common Room, Guild of Students.Whether it’s Guild events and campaigns, or housing, community and safety issues, in this forum we want to hear how we can best represent you.
Saturday 26th May
Edwardian FeteWinterbourne House & Garden. Tickets £4-6. Craft food stalls, morris dancing and traditional games
Fab ‘n’ Fresh at the Guild... the weekend just got better!10pm to 3am. Tickets £4. The Guild’s most popular home-grown event right on your doorstep!Visit: guildtickets.co.uk
Wednesday 30th May
Summer Jobs & Volunteering Fair11am-3pm. Common Room, Guild of Students. Employers recruiting for last-minute summer work and part-time jobs.• Volunteering opportunities in a variety of sectors• Vacancies from Job Centreplus• Information on tax and self- employment with the HMRC• Advice on employment rights from the TUC• Staff from the Careers and Employability Centre on hand• CV checks offered on the day – bring yours along with you
Friday 1st June
Birmingham University Fringe Festival (BUFF) 12-9pm, Guild of Students.Arts performance in and around the Guild including performances, demos, exhibitions and more.
Fab ‘n’ FRIDAY at the Guild... End of exams special!10pm to 3am. Tickets £4. The Guild’s most popular home-grown event right on your doorstep!Visit: guildtickets.co.uk
Saturday 2nd June
Vale FestivalMidday onwards at The Vale.Valefest has an eclectic range of acts and areas. There’s something for everyone! Theatre shows, workshops, graffitiwalls,comedyactsandmuchmore. Vale Festival is charitable, ethical and eco-friendly.
Fab ‘n’ Fresh at the Guild... the weekend just got better!10pm to 3am. Tickets £4. The Guild’s most popular home-grown event right on your doorstep!Visit: guildtickets.co.uk
Monday 4th June
Sports BallPre-drinks in Joe’s Bar from 5pm. Departure at 5.45pm to Edgbaston Cricket Ground. Transport provided.Celebrate the many sportsmen and sportswomen who represent the University of Birmingham and the end to a fantastic year.
Thursday 7th June
Grad BallOn Campus.Top name acts, free funfair, silent disco, bandeoke, and much more, it’s guaranteed to be a night to remember!Visit: guildofstudents.com/gradball2012
Saturday 9th June
Fab ‘n’ Fresh at the Guild... the weekend just got better!10pm to 3am. Tickets £4. The Guild’s most popular home-grown event right on your doorstep!Visit: guildtickets.co.uk
Sunday 10th June
Community DayAcross campus.
Monday 11th June
Guild Council6pm in the Guild Council Chambers.The highest student decision making body within the Guild of Students.Email: [email protected]
Wednesday 13th June
Gold Awards and Student Employee of the Year Awards CeremonyGreat Hall, Aston Webb.
Friday 15th June
Fab ‘n’ FRIDAY at the Guild... Celebrate the end of the final term!10pm to 3am. Tickets £4. The Guild’s most popular home-grown event right on your doorstep!Visit: guildtickets.co.uk
Saturday 16th June
Summer Murder Mystery PlayWinterbourne House & Garden. Tickets £6-10.
Contact Us... [email protected] guildofstudents.com 0121 251 2300
Follow the Guild of Students on twitter @guildofstudents and ‘like’ the Guild of Students’ facebook page at facebook.com/guildofstudents
WE HAVE UPGRADED THE JOE’S + CARD TO OFFER YOU MORE FOR YOUR MONEY, THAN EVER BEFORE!
Upgrade your Joe’s + card NOW for just £1* and enjoy discounts on food, drink and much more, including in Zest clothing shop until August 2013. Upgrading your card couldn’t be easier, simply ask at Joe’s bar.
Check out what it’s worth at guildofstudents.com/joesplus
Spotlight Promotional offers will be available during club nights so don’t forget to bring your card along! Please note current Joe’s + cards will still be accepted but will expire on 31st August 2012.
*New Joe’s + cards will cost £2 to purchase from 1st September 2012.
PLUS Card expires: 31/08/13
UPGRADE NOWFOR ONLY£1UNTIL AUGUST 2012
