Hello everyone! I can’t believe I’ve nearly been in the role for 2 months, but I think now is a great time for me to share exactly what I’ve been up to.

NUS Training and Conferences

It’s been great going to a number of National Union of Students (NUS) led training conferences. I’ve been lucky to spend almost 3 weeks in Liverpool, Lincoln and Keele learning from the NUS full time officers and sabbaticals officers all around the country. It was also a fantastic opportunity to network with other sabbs running similar campaigns throughout the year.

Course Reps

This year, the restructuring of the programme and course reps system is a big goal of mine. Course reps are the frontline students in working to improve the education we all receive from CCCU. I want course reps to feel empowered throughout the year and receive recognition for the great work they do!

The new SU app (coming soon) will now allow training to be available online whilst there will be regular video updates showing off ‘Rep of the Month’ and useful hints and tips to being a great rep. Course rep socials will become a more regular occurrence with other great benefits including a course rep reward card and an end of year award dinner!

Housing

Where to begin with housing? The cost, quantity and quality of housing is an issue for students nationwide. However, in Canterbury we are in a fortunate position of having a surplus of student housing available. Meetings with HomeStamp have been very productive and we will be co-hosting a ‘Find a Housemate’ day in November with FREE DOMINOS!!! Yes, you heard correct… free dominos so don’t miss out!

Hate Crime Clinic

I have been working with Kent Police over the past 6 weeks to work on organising a hate crime clinic as a support service offered to students. Post-Brexit Britain has seen an astronomical rise in the reports of hate crime and the diverse range of students at Christ Church need support in place. I am very happy that this looks like it is going to be running from the end of September.

Online Resources and Library

A massive part of my manifesto is focusing on improving the online resources and eBooks offered by CCCU. Talks with the university have so far been very positive including introductory talks of lecture capture.

Keep In Touch

If you want to want to get in touch then feel free to email me on phil@ccsu.co.uk, friend me on facebook, or simply come in and have a chat.

Phil Semmens
President (Education and Wellbeing) 2016/17