The Brum Bulletin - your student newsletter

Have you been Covid tested this week? The more you get tested, the more likely we are to get everyone back on campus, be able to open up society and do the things we all want to do.

Regular asymptomatic Covid testing is quick and easy, so do your bit and keep getting tested if you are on campus.

Testing is available in the Great Hall on Mondays and Thursdays and takes about 10 minutes.

Book a test

The Duck and Scholar bar in the Vale Village has also been temporarily turned into a walk-in asymptomatic Covid testing centre for all students.

Open for walk-ins for all students, with no booking required, every Tuesday and Friday, between 11.00am-6.45pm (closed 2.00-2.45pm). All students who take a lateral flow test at the site will receive a goody bag, while stocks last.

Find out more

Have you been tested?

Wei-Lun, International Officer at Guild of Students, explains the importance of having regular Covid-19 tests. Book your tests here.

Watch now

Climate Change Writing Competition

To celebrate the UK hosting this year's UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), we are launching a competition to win £500 by writing an article on the theme of tackling climate change.

Find out more and enter

Graduate Route Visa Update

International students who want to work in the UK after their studies can apply for a Graduate Route Visa. Students are required to return to the UK to complete their studies by 21 June 2021 (extended from 6 April). 

Read more

Share your lockdown experiences

Careers Network are looking for volunteers to contribute to an online webinar on 9 June. They’re looking for students who’d be happy to share their experiences and any top tips for upskilling or finding opportunities during the pandemic. 

Share your stories

Enhance your CV with LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning is a great resource for students giving you access to free industry-led, online courses that can support your learning and employability, enhance your CV, or follow a personal interest.   

See what's on offer                            

Student Social: Selfie spots on campus 

There's so many great spots on our beautiful campus to take amazing photos. Here's a great image by @shanemaverick. Share your great images and tag @unibirmingham.        

Campus photo spots

Intranet top tip: Student surveys

Final year and postgraduate taught students, don't forget to have your say by completing the National Student Survey (NSS) and Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) respectively. 

Student surveys

 

Dates for your diary 

International Women's Day 
Events taking place throughout March 

To celebrate International Women's Day we have developed a programme of events and activities celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, the theme for 2021 is 'Choose To Challenge'. View the full programme.

Let's Read Together with Pause@UoB
Tuesday 16 March, 13.30-14.30pm

'Let's Read Together' is a relaxing group for international students wanting to connect with others to gain confidence speaking in English, which meets every other Tuesday. We will be reading short poems and stories, and discussing our responses together in a supportive and non-judgemental space. Register here

An Audience With West Midlands Mayoral Candidates
Wednesday 17 March, 10.00-11.00am

Ahead of the upcoming West Midlands mayoral election the University alongside Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and its fellow business organisations, Pinsent Masons and the Business Desk, are bringing together the mayoral candidates to offer staff and students the opportunity to hear their plans and priorities, as well as ask questions. Please note: you must register with your bham.ac.uk email address to secure your place, choose ticket type CBI sponsor-single ticket. Book here

Barber Concerts: Oxford Lieder
Friday 19 March, 13.00pm

Join the Barber Institute for the premiere of a performance with Oxford Lieder, recorded in our very own Elgar Concert Hall, part of a season of concerts to celebrate 75 years of Barber Concerts. Watch online.

 

The full list of events taking place this month can be found here

PG corner

PGT Essentials

Our final PGT Essentials session before the Easter break is on developing your academic writing: learn more about reflective writing, structuring your writing, and proofreading tips! More info and sign up here.

Academic English sessions with the BIA

The Birmingham International Academy offers a range of sessions and courses for postgraduate students, including dissertation writing skills, communication skills, synthesising skills, reading skills and individualised support. Read our recent news article for more information.

Yoga and mindfulness for PGs

Our online Yoga and Mindfulness sessions are continuing throughout March. Sign up here

Blue plaque walks in Edgbaston

Come rain or shine you can now take advantage of some interesting and informative blue plaque walks in and around Edgbaston and Harborne.

Go Explore

And finally...

  • Census Day is on 21 March, but you can fill in yours in now. The census is an important national survey that takes place every 10 years. By taking part, you’ll be helping make sure you and your student community get the services needed now and in the future. The information you give informs decisions that affect student life, therefore, it is key that you complete the form for your university address.  Find out more about the Census and how to complete.
    Note: If you wish you can request a separate Census form from your household to complete your details confidentially. 
  • The Government has confirmed that students on campus can return home for the Easter break, if they choose to, however it is strongly advised that students remain in their term time accommodation where possible. If you do travel home please get tested before travelling and get tested again before returning to campus. Please remember if you test positive, you will be legally required to self-isolate for ten days and should not travel.
  • New collection hour at the Library. In response to recent student feedback we are trialling an hour at the Main Library where students can come in to collect items without needing to book a slot. Read more on the Library intranet pages. 

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