The retention of lecture-capture was a big achievement for the collective student body. But there is still a long way to go.

Places and Spaces

• Accessable is a platform widely used to track the accessibility of spaces. Unfortunately, major locations around campus are not up to date. I want to work with the university to review this, ensuring that all venues are reflected. 
• That said, many spaces across campus are not yet wheelchair accessible. This includes study spaces, faculty offices, and lecture theatres. For example:
  • The Buchanan building
  • The Maths building 
  • The King James Library
• I want to work with the Disabled Students’ Network to launch an investigation into the extent to which this hinders learning for students. If this proves to be a significant issue, I would like to work with the university to explore solutions. 
• I want to work to standardise access to a few basic resources in all school buildings:
  • Hot water 
  • Microwaves
  • Group-study spaces 
  • Vending machines 
  • Bookable spaces 
  • Quiet rooms and decompression zones
• I want to advocate for more variety in postgraduate study spaces - more standing desks, group study areas, etc.
• I want to work with the DoSDA to explore potentially allowing certain societies to become affiliated with Schools (or SP’s). This will allow them to avail school-related funding for events/balls/talks and take some of the load off of SP’s. Balls have been a particular concern in the past few years. This will also allow them to use school spaces for things like committee meetings and take the strain off of union meeting rooms.
• I want to ensure that waste is properly segregated at libraries.

Academic Matters 

• As we transition to a post-COVID status quo, I want to ensure that the strides made in the last few years are not lost. I want to continue to advocate for accountability regarding captioned lecture-capture and access policy.
• I also want to advocate for screen-reader friendly module content. This includes accessible presentations, html versions of pdf documents, and access to software that is able to effectively transcribe scanned texts. 
• The most important way to ensure accessibility is maintained in the curriculum is ensuring that feedback loops (such as MEQ’s and SSCC forms) are closed. I want to ensure that faculty are encouraged to record and inform students of changes being implemented in response to such feedback.
• Various issues with continuity in STEM, have to do with sub-honours students having little practice with writing any form of essay to eventually producing a dissertation in their final year. I want to advocate for better resources, teaching, and coursework to address this gap. 
• In Arts counterparts, the biggest issues arise with a lack of support for joint honours students. I want to work towards:
  • Academic advising that is tailored to different degree combinations; transparency when it comes to what classes one can/cannot take. For example, what sort of combinations have others with the same degree as me taken?
  • Up to date information on module choice websites regarding guidelines for joint degrees and joint dissertations available 
  • Better consideration for potential clashes for join degree students 
• I want to continue advocating for a centralised extensions portal that is accessible on MySaint - this is good for students but also staff (tracking extension requests will support the ‘duty of care’ obligations that emerged from the University of Bristol v Natasha Abrahart case. 
• I want to ensure a standardised extensions policy for:
  • Essay gifts and flexible extensions 
  • What counts as evidence 
  • Who reviews and approves extensions
  • Retrospective extensions 

Education is a journey of growth and development, and it's essential to have a robust support system in place to ensure your success. That's why I am dedicated to lobbying to reimagine the Academic Alert System, transforming it into a more proactive and student-centered framework that fosters academic progress and well-being.

As a Postgraduate, and former PG Rep, this is an issue close to my heart. Postgraduate students are an integral part of our university community, and it's time to reimagine and enhance their representation. I am committed to working towards a new era of postgraduate representation that ensures their voices are heard, needs are met, and concerns are addressed.

We will reimagine the role of postgraduate representation, making it more inclusive, dynamic, and responsive to the unique challenges faced by postgraduate students. We will work collaboratively with postgraduate presidents and reps to develop a fresh approach that champions their interests and aspirations.

Let's face it, studying isn't always a breeze, especially when you're stuck at home or in your dorm room. That's why I'm determined to address this issue head-on.  I understand the struggles of finding the perfect study spot, no matter the time of day. That's why I'm committed to collaborating with the University to establish a dedicated 24-hour study space, which is easily accessible and able to cater for all years.

Imagine having a place where you can immerse yourself in your studies, regardless of the hour. Inspired by the success of the Postgraduate Lounge and the inviting areas within Butts Wynd, I will advocate for a similar model tailored specifically to meet the needs of undergraduate students. Whether you're burning the midnight oil, need a change of scenery, or simply prefer a productive environment outside your usual surroundings, this dedicated 24-hour space will be your go-to spot to get your work done.

Taking a leave of absence during your studies is sometimes necessary, and I firmly believe that we can work to get greater support throughout the process. That's why I am dedicated to collaborating with the university to establish a Retention and Reintegration Programme, ensuring that you receive the assistance you need during this period and prepare for a smooth transition back when you're ready.

The program should focus on making this process easier to navigate, providing clear guidelines, and ensuring that you have the necessary resources to make informed decisions about your leave of absence.  It should aim to alleviate concerns and uncertainties, allowing you to focus on what matters most: taking care of yourself and addressing the challenges you're facing. Then, when you're ready to return, the program will aim to facilitate a smooth reintegration back to studies.

We all need a guiding hand on our academic journey, and that's why I'm passionate about revamping the Academic Advisor system. It's time for an upgrade that truly puts your needs first. Working with the University, I wish to introduce an initiative called the Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) scheme, designed to provide you with the support you need throughout your studies.

With the PAT scheme, you'll have a dedicated tutor who will be your go-to person, someone you can rely on for guidance, whether it's related to your academics or seeking additional support. Your PAT will be there to listen, offer advice, and help you navigate the challenges that arise during your university experience.

But the PAT scheme isn't just about individual support. It's about fostering a sense of community within your school. By being part of a PAT group, you'll have a network of fellow students who share your academic journey. These groups will provide a supportive environment where you can connect, share experiences, and offer mutual assistance. PATs will aim to hold regular one-to-one meetings with their students every semester. These check-ins will give you an opportunity to discuss your progress, address any concerns, and receive guidance to thrive academically.

Your education matters, and I believe in providing you with the transparency you deserve when it comes to your tuition fees. That's why I want help coordinate with departments across the University to introduce a game-changing initiative: 'Tuition Receipts.'

Imagine having access to a detailed breakdown of where your hard-earned fees are allocated. With Tuition Receipts, you'll have a clear understanding of how your money is being utilized and the value you're receiving in return. It's about empowering you to make informed judgments about the education you're investing in.

These receipts won't just be about numbers and figures. They will highlight the extensive range of resources and support available to you beyond the lecture hall. From valuable study skills workshops to the career office that can shape your future, you'll be amazed at the wealth of out-of-classroom opportunities at your fingertips.