What's on in Welcome 2025: CoSS Wellbeing

CoSS Wellbeing's Welcome Activities 2025

We know that starting university is a big step and we’re here to support you every step of the way. During Welcome Week, the CoSS Wellbeing Team is running a wide range of activities designed to help you settle in, connect with others, and feel confident as you begin your journey at Birmingham. 

Activities cover a wide range of topics, including information sessions to help you navigate university life such as understanding key processes, and making the most of your time. We are also hosting mindfulness activities including journalling, mug painting, and scratch art, perfect for taking a mindful moment and meeting new people. We've listed our activities below but please be aware that, due to room capacity, some events will require registration. 

Want to know more about your College Wellbeing team? 

Find out more about how your College Wellbeing Officer can help you

Navigating University Life

Click the links below to read more on our navigating University Life sessions and to book your place. 

How to Pass Go: Learning the Rules of University.
Starting university is an exciting step, but it can also come with lots of questions about how things really work. This relaxed, friendly session is here to help you settle in by uncovering the “hidden” rules of university life that aren’t always obvious at first.  

“It’s not always raining”: culture, seasons and staying healthy.
Adjusting to life in a new country takes time, but you don’t have to do it alone. This session is designed for International Students and offers practical tips to help international students settle into life in England, from navigating weather changes and shorter days to registering with a GP and staying safe in the community. 

CoSS Wellbeing Presents: Disability Support at UoB
If you think you might benefit from academic adjustments, (due to a disability, mental health condition, or other long-term issue) or you have had some time of adjustment at School/College (such as a laptop in an exam or extra time) then this session is for you.

 

Wellbeing, Mindfulness and Community

Click the links below to read more on our sessions, that explore mindfulness, wellbeing and community building, and to book your place.  

Meditation and Journaling: Navigating Change.
Starting something new often brings both excitement and uncertainty. In this session, you’ll be introduced to simple meditation and mindfulness practices, alongside guided journaling, to help you pause, reflect, and approach change with clarity and calm. Learn how to ground yourself in the present moment, build resilience, and create space for new opportunities as you begin your journey at UoB. 

Meditation and Journaling: Building Connection with Self and Others. 
New beginnings are an opportunity to strengthen not only how we relate to others, but also how we connect with ourselves. In this session, you’ll explore simple mindfulness and journaling practices that encourage self-awareness, empathy, and openness. Learn how being present with yourself can support authentic connections with new friends, helping you feel grounded and part of the UOB community from the very start. 

LGBTQ+ CoSS Student Wellbeing: Social & Board Game Morning.
Looking to meet fellow LGBTQ+ students in a relaxed, welcoming space? Join us for our very first Wellbeing Social & Board Game Morning, a chance to connect, unwind, and have some fun over your favourite games! Whether you're outgoing or on the quieter side, this is a low-pressure, inclusive morning to build community, share laughs, and support one another. 

 

Drop-In Activities

Whether you’re looking for conversation or just a calm space to unwind, you’ll find a warm welcome here.  

End of the Day Quiet Cuppa
During Welcome, take a moment to pause, relax, and connect at the end of your day.
From Monday 22nd through to Wednesday 24th and Friday 26th, you can join us for a friendly cuppa between 15:00 and 16:00pm in Alan Walters, Room 103, where you can meet others, share experiences, or simply enjoy some quiet time in good company.

Craft Hour
On Monday 22nd between 13:00 - 13:50, you can drop in to Alan Walters, Room 103,and take part in mug painting, bracelet making, diamond and scratch art—perfect for taking a mindful moment and meeting new people.

Table Tennis
Want to flex your table tennis skills and take on a Wellbeing Office?

Meet Adam and Matthew on Monday 22nd between 14:00 - 14:50, at the Table Tennis table outside Alan Walters, and test your skills.

CoSS Wellbeing takes over the Student Community Hub

Not sure where to go or what to do? Our Student Community Hub is the perfect place to drop in and take a break! With low-key activities, friendly faces to chat to, and comfy spaces to chill out, it really is the place to be. 

CoSS Wellbeing will be taking over the Student Community Hub on Wednesday 24th (10:00am - 13:00pm) and Thursday 25th (13:00 - 16:00).

Whether you come alone or with your new flatmates or coursemates, our friendly staff and Welcome Assistants are on hand to answer any questions and help make you feel at home. 

No need to book, just come and say hi!

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