Thursday 21-05-2020 - 09:22

A couple of weeks ago we shared with you some of our immediate priorities and what we are asking of the University in the short term. 

We are aware that some issues around your learning, assessment and accommodation are still ongoing and we are fighting to make sure positive changes happen. 

However, we know that those of you who are returning next academic year are starting to think more about that. We’ve also started seeing more questions from new students who are watching closely.  

With that in mind, we wanted to share some of what we are lobbying the university for the next academic year: 

1. Assurance that struggling students’ studies are supported when the student employment sector is affected through money and financial hardship provision. 
2. We’re pushing for secure provision of accommodation and rent when students may not be able to afford it. 
3. We’ve asked the University to consider how best to support teaching and learning for all students when the delivery of teaching has fundamentally changed and different students have different needs. 
4. We want commitment to developing and supporting student community by improving communication and supporting existing groups with online provision in partnership with Bristol SU. 
5. Wellbeing support for students at a time when its nature has changed and vulnerable students need it more than ever. 
6. Additional support for international students at a time when they are particularly exposed to many of the knock-on effects of COVID-19. 
7. Introduction of digital citizenship into all aspects of university life to ensure that the community is ready to respect each other in an online environment. 
8. Careful consideration of the treatment of tuition fees, particularly for self funded and international students. 
9. Ensure there is an equitable transition back to university life for structurally disadvantaged new and returning students (EDI). 

The Bristol SU staff team are also thinking very closely about the next academic year and are making plans to ensure that Welcome Week, the Welcome Fair, Give it a Go and more will all still continue, even if it is in a digital world. 

We’re continuing to fight to make sure you are getting the most from your university experience and welcome any feedback.