GCUSA Handbook 2012-13

OUR MISSIONTo represent and enable GCU students to enhance all aspects of their student experience

OUR VISIONThat our students will have an outstanding experience that will live with them forever

OUR VALUES

Hi folks,

A big warm welcome to GCU from your Sabbatical Officers here at the Students’ Association.

We have no doubt you will have an exciting year ahead here at GCU and in this handbook you will find everything you need to know about the Students’ Association and what we can do and provide for you. Whether you want to be involved in sports clubs, societies or media or need some advice or representation, the Students’ Association is here for you!

Carla, Danielle, Nick and SineadSabbatical Officers 2012-13

Contents

PageSabbatical Officers 2012/13 3Students’ Association Building 4-5Caledonian Student Voice 6Class Reps & School Officers 6Elections 7Campaigns 7NUS 8Ethical & Enviromental Campaign 8Advice Centre 9Wellbeing Volunteering 10Nightline Volunteering 10Volunteering in Student Media 11Societies 12-13Sport 14-15Student Leaders Programme 16Students’ Association Events 17

DiversityWe are proud of our diverse student body and are dedicated to activities that celebrate this diversity.

CommunityWe foster a welcoming and inclusive environment, allowing students to form and build upon strong, lasting relationships that contribute into an enjoyable and productive University life.

Participation We promote and provide the opportunity for widespread involvement through sports, societies, volunteering and in all our activities.

Fun We are dedicated and passionate about the professional nature of working for students whilst maintaining a fun and friendly atmosphere.

SupportWe provide a high level of consistent, reliable, confidential and independent support, ensuring the welfare of all our students.

Leadership Throughout all our activities we encourage students to become leaders, to take pride in their University and fellow students, enabling them to be outstanding graduates.

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Sabbatical Officers 2012-13

Student President

[email protected]

call: 0141 273 1601

Vice President Wellbeing

[email protected]

call: 0141 273 1612

Vice President Education

[email protected]: 0141 273 1602

Vice President Activities

[email protected]: 0141 273 1616

Elected by you, to represent you.

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www.caledonianstudent.com

Level 2• SA Training Room (NH208)• Sabbatical and Staff Offices• Volunteer Computers

Level 1• Welcome Desk• Games Room• Advice Centre • Cafe Roots• SA Meeting Room (NH112)• Radio Caley

Students’ Association Building

Volunteer computers

Welcome Desk

Advice Centre

Radio Caley

Games Room


Level 0• 24 hour Computer Lab• Student Social Space• Bookable Group Study Rooms

www.facebook.com/GCUSA

The Students’ Association is located at number 5 on the campus map and has room numbers beginning with NH.

T: 0141 331 3886E: [email protected]: www.caledonianstudent.com

www.facebook.com/gcusa

www.twitter.com/GCUSAinfo

We are here!

Study Room

24 Hour Lab

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For more information visit www.caledonianstudent.com/classreps

Class RepresentativesEvery programme within the University should have Class Represenatives at every level – usually two but sometimes more. Class Reps are there to let lecturers know when there are problems so that things can get fixed quickly rather than turning into a bigger problem. They are also there to let lecturers know what students like about the course so that they will know to keep doing them!

In the first few weeks of term your lecturers should ask students on your programme if they are interested in becoming a Class Represenative. If they don’t, then ask your lecturers about it. It is really useful to have one as soon as possible – especially in first year. Anyone can be a Class Represenatives – you don’t need any experience and it doesn’t take up a lot of time (only two meetings a year). Not only that but full training is offered by the Students’ Association and once you become a rep you will have the option of taking part in things like Caledonian Student Voice and the Student Leaders Programme.

Being a Class Representative is a good way to develop communications skills, make useful contacts within your department and add something to your CV.

For more information visitwww.caledonianstudent.com/studentvoice

Caledonian Student VoiceThe Student Voice is an important part of how we do things in the Students’ Association. We want to make sure everything we do is agreed upon by the students at GCU. That’s why any student can apply to join the Student Voice and have their say about what activities we’re running, what issues we’re campaigning on and what services we provide. If there is something we’re doing that you don’t like – you can change that. If there’s something we’re not doing that you’d like us to do – well, you can change that too!

What we offer students in terms of sports, societies, welfare services, volunteering and social activities – amongst many other things – can only be decided by students who get involved and tell us. With only two meetings per trimester it won’t take up a lot of your time but you will get a real chance to have a say on what happens on campus and to meet lots of new people.

In the past years the Student Voice has allowed lots of new sports clubs and societies to be created and also called for successful campaigns to move the winter exams, get Wednesday Afternoons free from classes for sport and volunteering and get free drinking water on campus. Student Voice is your chance to have a say and make a difference.


ElectionsEverything we do in the Students’ Association is decided by the students at GCU – including who runs the place.

Each year we hold campus wide elections to elect our new four member Student Officer Team. These roles are full time paid positions and all of them provide a unique experience of running an organisation with a budget of over half a million pounds and around a dozen permanent staff.

Being on the Student Officer Team gives you the chance to represent 17,000 students to the top people in the University and to the outside world whilst picking up many of the important skills which greatly add to your employability after University.

Any student can stand to be on the Student Officer Team and with four different roles to choose from there is likely to be something that interests everyone.

The elections take place in March and information about them will start appearing around December.

For more information check outwww.caledonianstudent.com/campaigns

For more information visitwww.caledonianstudent.com/elections

CampaignsThe Students’ Association is committed to campaigning to improve your student experience. Whether its protesting against tuition fees, fighting for fair treatment for international students or campaigning for better feedback on coursework, we’ll be there wearing the t-shirt (quite literally!). In a time when education is under threat from funding cuts, it has never been more important that students make their voices heard.

Your Students’ Association exists to represent all students at GCU. We have dedicated student officers and campaigns to represent all of the different groups within our student body. Not only that but we are always open to embracing new causes that help our students so new ideas are always welcome.

We have dedicated campaigns for: LGBT Students, Female Students, Ethnic Minority Students, Taught Postgraduates & Research Postgraduates, Disabled Students, International Students, Mature Students.

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National Union of StudentsThe Students’ Association is a member of the National Union of Student (NUS) which means all students at GCU are members too. NUS is a national campaigning body which exists to promote, defend and extend the rights of students.

As part of NUS we work together with other students’ associations from across the country to campaign and lobby government to ensure the best outcome for our students. We are always looking for students who want to get involved in national campaigns. Whether its taking part in a demo or writing to your MSP, you can help us make a difference.

You can find out more about how NUS is organised in Scotland at www.facebook.com/nusScotland and www.twitter.com/nusScotland.

We also send representative to NUS events including their annual conference and we are always looking for new students to get involved.

For more information about the campaign visit

www.caledonianstudent.com/eande

Ethical & Environmental CampaignThe Students’ Association’s award winning Ethical & Environmental Campaign has been running for the last three years and has done much to improve the environmental impact of GCU – from lowering energy usage in our buildings to improving recycling facilities on campus.

The campaign has also led to fair trade products being used across campus and has helped win Fair Trade Status for the University.

Last year we also introduced an Energy Ambassadors Scheme, where student volunteers were trained to assess buildings to determine where energy can be saved. This reduces costs and helps the environment.

For more infor on how we work with NUS visit

www.caledonianstudent.com/NUS


Advice CentreThe Advice Centre is located on level 1 of the Students’ Association Building. We provide a free non-judgemental and confidential service to all GCU students where we represent and promote the interests of both individuals and the student body as a whole.

We are the only service in the University that provides independent and confidential advice, guidance and representation to students on academic procedures such as Special Factors, Academic Appeals, Student Disciplinary, Complaints and Harassment issues.

We also offer advice on a wide range of other issues including:• Problems on your course: Difficulties with fellow students or tutor? Do you feel your course is not right for you?

• Representation for Disciplinaries: Information on your rights and responsibilities including minor and major offences e.g. plagiarism and cheating, anti-social behaviour. • Listening and support: Coming to University for the first time can be daunting and challenging. If you just want to talk and need someone to listen in complete confidence or you might be worried about a friend, then pop in to see one of our Advisers as we are here to help.

• Financial worries: Why not come in and talk to one of our Advisers about it? If appropriate we can refer you to other services.

• Sexual Health: Would you like an unlimited supply of condoms and information about sexual health? Then pop into the Advice Centre and access the free condom service. Our service is linked to the sexual health clinic at the Sandyford Initiative.

The Adice Centre is open Monday–Friday,

9amto5pm.

Our two full time Student Advisers, Caroline and Kirsty can be contacted by phone and email to make an appointment in advance or you can just drop into the centre in the Students’ Association Building at a time that suits you.

CarolineMillerStudent Adviser

KirstyMcGregorStudent Adviser

ContacttheAdviceCentre Call: 0141 273 1650 or Email: [email protected]

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Wellbeing VolunteeringThe Students’ Association hold many campaigns throughout the year to help promote issues surrounding student welfare. In past years these have included personal safety, sexual health, cultural awareness, alcohol awareness, stress management and many more. However, these campaigns would not be as successful as they have been without the help of Wellbeing Volunteers. Why not join us and see how YOU could make a difference to the welfare of 17,500 students that attend GCU.

With so many exciting areas to focus on, the Advice Centre is a lively department to get involved with. Not only will you meet students with similar interests, but through Wellbeing Volunteering you will learn and develop skills that are essential for graduates in any degree! We don’t ask for any experience as full training is given. Wellbeing Volunteers can participate in the Student Leaders Programme and at the end of the year volunteers are invited to the STAR awards and given the opportunity to win various awards.

If you are interested in applying to become

a Nightline Volunteer then go to www.scnightline.com

For more information on Wellbeing Volunteering go to

www.caledonianstudent.com/wellbeingvol

Nightline VolunteeringNightline is a confidential telephone and online listening and information service for students that is run by committed, trained and supported student volunteers from 7pm to 7am, 5 nights a week during term time. The service is coordinated jointly with Strathclyde University Union and volunteers from both universities train and work together to provide this peer support service to their fellow students at Strathclyde and GCU.

New volunteers are recruited at the start of trimesters 1 & 2. They are fully trained and supported by staff from both Students’ Association’s as well as by their fellow experienced volunteers.

Being a Nightline volunteer is a commitment – it is both challenging and rewarding. It is a great opportunity to gain useful training and experience, to make new friends and to have fun whilst also providing a valuable service to your student community. Nightline Volunteers can participate in the Student Leaders Programme and at the end of the year volunteers are invited to the STAR awards and given the opportunity to win various awards.

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The Edit MagazineThe Edit is the FREE ONLINE Students’ Association magazine written by GCU students for GCU students. The Edit are always looking for talented writers, photographers, and graphic designers to contribute to the magazine.

If you like to write about fashion, arts, student news, music, writing reviews or any other subject then join The Edit’s mailing list where you will find out deadlines and opportunities. We are also looking for students to join our magazine PR team. Get your work published, join the team!

Radio CaleyRadio Caley is the Students’ Association’s radio station; it’s organised and co-ordinated by GCU student volunteers. There are a number of roles that you can volunteer to be involved in. These include production, presenting, fundraising, music, PR and technical. No experience is necessary and full training is provided.

Email: [email protected] for more info.

Read online, join the mailing list and get more info at www.caledonianstudent.com/theedit

ListenLiveatwww.radiocaley.com

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Baking Society [email protected] Society [email protected] Events Society [email protected] Students & Scholars Association [email protected] Union [email protected] Society [email protected] Enterprise Society [email protected] Society [email protected] Pakistan Society [email protected] [email protected] Society [email protected] London Students’ Society [email protected] Green Club [email protected] Kong Society [email protected] Social Group [email protected] Product Design Society [email protected] [email protected] Society [email protected] Luxury Society [email protected] Multinational Society [email protected] Students’ Association [email protected] [email protected] Group [email protected] Therapy (OT) Society [email protected] Society (SSOS) [email protected], Cali [email protected] Society [email protected] [email protected] Society [email protected] Society [email protected] Society [email protected] Students Society (RSS) [email protected] Speaking Society [email protected] Students’ Association, Glasgow (GSSC) [email protected] Signs 4 Life [email protected] Work [email protected] Dahrm Society [email protected]

SocietiesOne of the best ways to be part of student life at GCU is to become involved in a society. Every society is run by students so activities can be shaped by you and your fellow members, and there are over 40 societies offering activities during the academic year. These are course based, culture, faith and liberation groups as well as social, interest and hobby based societies. If you can’t see the society for you then it’s really easy to start your own. Many societies hold weekly activities and regular events, for more information visit www.caledonianstudent.com/societies

JOIN NOWIt’s really easy to become a society member. Simply pop in to the Students’ Association, sign up and pay at the Welcome Desk.

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START YOUR OWNIf you’ve not seen the society for you then why not start your own? It really is easy to do and you’ll be offered the support you need. For more details and to register interest please visit www.caledonianstudent.com/startasociety

The following societies have existed before, or students have shown interest in starting them. If you’d like to get involved in running a society listed please email [email protected]

• Bulgarian Society • Comedy Society• Choir • GCU Cheerleading• Greek Society • Irish Society • Labour Student Club • Lib Dem Students• Music Society • Nursing Society • Polish Society • Society of Civil Engineers• Glasgow Saudi Students Club (GSSC)

For more information on societies then check out

www.caledonianstudent.com/societies

FACILITIES AND SUPPORTThe Students’ Association provides training for volunteers running societies. We have a resource area for volunteers to utilise on Level 2 of our building including PCs, printing, telephone, fax and mail box.

Rooms in the University are free to use for Society meetings and can include media facilities and stalls can also be booked in the foyer of any building.

Every society has an account with the Students’ Association and is eligible to receive funding annually. Each society can also fundraise to add to their account.

Other facilities include a page on the website to add text, photos and links, a design and print service, access to computer screensavers, plasma screens and our minibuses.

RECOGNITIONStarAwardsThe Student’ Association hold an annual awards ceremony for societies and other volunteers in order to recognise and appreciate the contributions of those involved. Society categories last year were Best Society Event, Society Volunteer of the Year, Best New Society and Society of the Year, Society Lifetime Achievement Award.

StudentLeadersProgrammeBeing on the committee for a society and completing our training means you are eligible for the Student Leaders Programme. You can find further information on this opportunity on page 16.

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For more information check out www.caledonianstudent.com/sport

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Sport ClubsThe Students’ Association provides the opportunity for students to be involved in a varied range of sports clubs. Whatever your ability or aspirations are, joining a sports club is a great way for you to continue the sport you enjoy, broaden your social life, represent the University in competitions and stay fit and healthy.

The clubs are organised by GCU student volunteers and most hold weekly activities, both indoors and out, and some participate with other Scottish Universities in competitions throughout the year. Activities take place on campus in the Arc, off campus at local sports facilities, at venues around Scotland and some sports clubs also offer the opportunity to travel abroad.


Active Lifestyles Living a healthy life at University by remaining active increases your general wellbeing dramatically and will benefit you in all aspects of life. Through the use of physical activity you can improve your mental wellbeing and can help to reduce stress.

Wednesday ActivitiesActive Lifestyles Programme offers students an opportunity to participate in FREE and fun physical activities on a Wednesday afternoon in the Arc from 2-5pm.

Outdoor Basketball Court and Traverse WallTake some time out from study and use the outdoor basketball court or traverse wall next to the Students’ Association Building, the areas are free to use and is a great way to relax and have some fun.

For more information check out www.caledonianstudent.com/activelifestyles

[email protected]

Sports Club Annual Membership

The first sports club session you go to is FREE, after that you need to purchase a membership.

GCU Student: £30GCU Graduate or Staff: £50

Sports Clubs membership includes admission to ALL sports clubs, provides sports clubs activity insurance and where applicable use of club equipment, coaching, facility costs, competition entry and subsidised transport to activities. Some sports clubs may make an additional charge per activity. The membership also gives each member voting rights at AGMs and meetings of the sports club indicated on the membership form.

Buy Your Membership Online www.caledonianstudent.com/sport

*NB to purchase a membership you must register on the website first. Once you’ve bought your membership online, call into the Students’ Association Welcome Desk to pick up your membership card.

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Student Leaders ProgrammeStart building your future today…

You’ve all found yourselves being asked that unavoidable question, “What are your plans after you’ve finished University?” Some of you might answer that you plan to get your dream job, go travelling, continue with your education, set up you own business or that you’ve not made up your mind yet. Well, no matter what your plans are, the Student Leaders Programme can make sure you’ve got all the skills to take you where you need to go!

The programme aims to get you to think about leadership and to realise that each and every one of you have the ability to demonstrate leadership throughout your University career, the workplace or in any volunteering or mentoring that you do. Getting involved in the programme will allow you to become more confident, perform better and most importantly you will learn how to ‘sell’ yourself in this increasingly competitive graduate market!

Once you have successfully completed the programme, you’ll then be invited to a FREE awards ball to celebrate your achievements with other student leaders. You’ll also have the opportunity to be awarded the prestigious GCU Student of the Year Award!

Join the Student Leaders Programme to meet new friends, learn new things and start building your future today because you’ll be a graduate before you know it!

For more information on the Student Leaders Programme then check out

www.caledonianstudent.com/slp

“I was asked at an interview what my involvement with the University was other than my course. They were impressed when I told them I had taken part in this programme and I ended up getting the job!”

Laura Tibbles, Student Leader

“As Principal, I am fully supportive of the Student Leaders Programme. This innovative programme will stand them in good stead after graduation as they grow in their careers and personal lives as global citizens.”

Professor Pamela Gillies, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, GCU

“Taking part in the Student Leader Programme has been a valuable asset that I know will help me stand out from the crowd.”

Carla Fyfe, Student President & Student Leader

“I was easily able to convey my skills during a lengthy post graduate recruitment process - abilities I attribute uniquely to my involvement with the Student Leaders Programme.”

Brian Reilly, Student Leader


EventsThe Students’ Association runs loads of exciting and fun events throughout the academic year. Going along to one of our events is great for expanding your social circle, trying something new, relaxing with friends, having some fun and de-stressing from studying. Events we organise include:

Alton Towers >> Awards Dinners >> Caley’s Got Talent >> Caley-Olympics >> Pool >> Ceilidh Dancing >> Chinese New Year >> Christmas Ice Skating in George Square >> Comedy Nights >> Global Cafe >> Glasgow Cup (intervarsity sports event) >> Poker >> Highland Whisky Distillery Trip >> Live Bands >> London Trip >> Movie Monday >> Social Pub Nights >> Sports Come and Try Sessions >> Ten Pin Bowling >> Wellbeing Fayre >> Yoga

Keep up to date with Students’ Association events at

www.caledonianstudent.com/eventswww.facebook.com/gcusa/events

Students’ Association Events TeamGet involved with our newest volunteering role! Offering our members the opportunity to be more than a participant in our events, being part of the Team means that you can be directly involved in organising and running events and activities at your Students’ Association.

You’ll receive training, gain events experience (that counts towards your course if applicable), have fun, get free branded GCUSA clothing, have the chance to participate in events for free including big ones like the London Trip, be eligible for the Student Leaders Programme, make new friends, have a say in future events programming and get a heads up on new events.

For more details visit www.caledonianstudent.com/volunteering

OFFICIAL UNION NIGHTCLUB

FREE ENTRY for GCU Students before 11.30pm

(excl. Saturday)

£3 after 11.30pm

With valid GCU Student ID Card

51a WEST REGENT STREET

BAMBOO IS OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEKTUESDAY-SUNDAY

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GCUSA Handbook 2012-13

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Transcript of GCUSA Handbook 2012-13