The Brum Bulletin - 18 November 2020

We're thrilled to announce that the University's first UoBe festival will take place from 25 – 29 January 2021.

The festival was created with students for students and features five different themes and a diverse range of events, activities and talks, there is something for everyone to get involved in whatever your interests. Whether you want to learn a new skill, participate, compete or simply have fun and unwind - which is what we all need a bit of right now.

Develop skills, make connections, create memories.

UoBe Festival

#JustBe

A sneak peak at what's in store in January at the inaugural UoBe Festival.

Watch the film

Test and go: Christmas travel plans FAQs

You may have been aware of the Government’s plans to help students return home safely at Christmas. We address your concerns and queries in FAQs on the intranet.

Stay safe online: Phishing scams

Be wary of emails or text messages that ask you to confirm personal details or verify your account. Always think before you click on a link. If in doubt delete it.

How to stay safe online

NHS resources for students

NHS England has published a new blog for students outlining mental health support available, including links to resources including NHS urgent helplines.

NHS resources

Home Workout Hub

UoB Sport & Fitness have launched online on-demand classes including Body Pump, Pilates, and more.

Sustainability tips

Check out the student blogs about being eco-conscious at university and the small ways you can make a difference.

Read the blogs

Dates for your diary

Disability History Month, 18 November - 18 December

As part of Disability History Month we have put together a programme of events open to students and staff, ranging from talks on disability and the impact of Covid, to the history of cochlear implants. View the programme.

Mind Craft with Pause@UoB, Thursday 19 November, 3.00 - 4.00pm

Join the Pause team for this fun and relaxing session looking at the practice of Mindfulness. Book now.

Creative Horror Writing, Wednesday 25 November, 7.00 – 8.30pm

Revel in the darkness of the winter nights... join writer Adrian B. Earle for a spine-chilling writing workshop. Use words to bring fear to life, and explore the carnivalesque, upside-down world of Goya, filled with witches, ghosts, and fantastic creatures. Book here.

Find out what other events are taking place this month here.

Student social: Keeping Covid safe

History and Art student, Ksenia Ananyeva reminds us to keep safe on campus. Remember to wear a mask indoors.

Ksenia's Instagram message

Intranet top tip: Campus opening hours

If you're on campus find out when and where you can access facilities including the Library, Study Spaces and catering.

Check opening hours

International updates

Important Visa information

Are you an International Student currently in the UK? Is your Tier 4 (General) visa is due to expire in December or January and you need more time to continue your studies? If, so you must read the information on our webpage and follow the advice provided.

EU, EEA and EU student webinars

If you are an EU, EEA and Swiss student the International Student Team (IST) have set up a series of webinars if you have concerns or have questions around the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).

We have 11 webinar sessions starting running weekly until 16 December, on Wednesdays and Fridays.

What's on in Brum: Virtual walking tour

Don't let lockdown stop you from exploring Birmingham, join the tour and explore Centenary Square and the canals online.

Win a Barber gift set

Answer this question by 25 November to win a Barber Institute of Fine Arts gift set featuring a Barber collection book, Monet umbrella and a print from the shop. Who founded the Barber on campus in 1932?

Enter the prize draw

And finally...

We need you to help shape the student intranet and help ensure that students have all in the information they need at their finger tips during their time at Birmingham. Take part in a (virtual) focus group and you will be entered in to a prize draw to win £50 Amazon vouchers.
Please email studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk to register your interest.

Students graduating in December will receive a free Yearbook to celebrate their time at University. We are aware of organisations asking for money for a Birmingham yearbook, these are not endorsed by the University. Any information about the official yearbook will come from an @bham.ac.uk or @contacts.bham.ac.uk email address.