The Brum Bulletin - your student newsletter
We are delighted that the latest Government announcement on the easing of Covid restrictions from Monday 17 May has confirmed that we will be able to welcome back all remaining students to campus from that date.
Read the full update
Launch of the Historical Research on Sexuality Project
The University and the Guild of Students are committed to working together to explore more broadly the activities surrounding the historical practice of conversion therapy in our University. We are unequivocal that conversion therapy, where the aim is to change a person's sexual orientation or to suppress gender identity, is unethical, degrading, and harmful. This is a very important piece of work and we are committed to carrying it out in a thorough and consultative way. We have therefore launched a Historical Research on Sexuality Project to improve and share our understanding of historical psychological research in this area.
Read the full statement here
Top tips for using the Library
Jules Singh, Education Officer at the Guild shares his top tips for using the Library and study spaces on campus.
Watch now
We are all aware of the difficult situation in India where the continuing spread of the coronavirus is affecting communities across the country. We know that there are many students studying in India and many more students who will have family in friends affected by the crisis in country.
For all students this is a busy time of year with deadlines and assessments so we wanted to remind you of the support that is available through the Wellbeing Teams in your Schools and Colleges and from our Mental Health and Wellbeing Services. The University’s Mental Health Support Line is a confidential service that gives you immediate help and support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. You will be able to speak to a mental health professional who will guide you through any issues you may currently be facing – in university or at home. The Mental Health Support Line offers immediate in-the-moment telephone support, and up to six sessions of counselling for mild-moderate issues.
Wherever you are in the world, if you are experiencing any difficulties that may prevent you from meeting deadlines or completing assessments then please contact us for advice and help. This year, due to the continuing Global pandemic, we have made some changes to support you in our Extenuating Circumstances and Extension process. More information is available on the Extenuating Circumstances procedure on the student intranet.
The Barber is reopening
The Barber’s galleries reopen Tuesday 18 May and will be open Tuesdays to Sundays, 10am to 5pm, booking is now also essential. Please familiarise yourself with the changes, to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.
Book today.
Graduation 2021 update
We are delighted to announce plans for the graduation celebrations for our Class of 2021 summer cohort. To find out when your School’s graduation celebration is taking place, please visit our website.
Graduation 2021
Assessment conduct reminder
With assessment season coming up, it's important to familiarise yourself with the online assessment rules and guidance. Any queries regarding the assessment instructions should be directed to your School Office.
Assessment guidance
May is national walking month
Walking is good for our minds, our bodies and our neighbourhoods and has been helping people stay active and connected. Why not take the pledge to walk this month and you could win £200.
Take the walking pledge
Spring into Summer @UoB
Coming up next week you can enjoy an outdoor cinema in the Green Heart for some evening movie entertainment, new garden games, meet the CAL Student Experience Team, create personal embroidery messages with Pause @UoB and enjoy the usual tasty food stalls and outdoor games.
Spring into Summer @UoB
Student Social: Spring into Summer @UoB
We hope you're enjoying the food and activities on campus (and the online events). Don't forget to share your images and tag the University @unibirmingham , here's a great shot by @tomthomthomas.
Spring on campus
Intranet top tip: Your academic life
The intranet features a range of academic support and resources to help you excel in your studies and assessments. Find out about the Library, Canvas, IT and exam support.
Your academic life
Dates for your diary
Top tips for online applications
Friday 14 May, 12:00noon
Information on why employers use online forms, how to prepare and some top tips for tackling the most common types of questions. Book here.
Top Tips to a great CV
Monday 17 May, 12:00noon
Information on what a CV is, why you need one and our top tips for getting started. Book here.
Aww-struck: Creative and critical approaches to cuteness
Friday 21 May, 09:00-17:00
This one-day seminar aims to advance and expand the field of cute studies in the Arts and Humanities through creative and critical presentations and discussion. It will also launch a print publication bringing together work shared in the seminar and an accompanying online exhibition. Book here.
Celebrating Racial Justice and Black Lives Matter
Tuesday 25 May, 12:30
Join Pastor Obi Iheoma from the Multi-Faith Chaplaincy for an online service celebrating racial justice and Black Lives Matter. In addition to the service we have created a message wall, where you can share your thoughts and messages of support relating to racial justice, Black Lives Matter and how best to be an ally to those suffering from racial injustice. Find out more and leave a message.
Spring into Summer @UoB
Monday to Friday, until end of June
Enjoy a range of outdoor activities on campus and online including arts and crafts, yoga, outdoor games and food stalls. Book onto an activity here.
PG corner
Spring into Summer @UoB PG Corner
For Postgraduates on campus, join the UGS in the Green Heart every Thursday for info drop-ins, outdoor yoga, socials and crafts! More information can be found here.
PG essentials: academic workshop
We've launched our summer programme of PGT Essentials academic workshops - expert-led sessions on dissertation research, academic writing, editing and proofreading, and productivity! Register here.
Shut Up and Work
Shut Up and Work sessions for PGTs and PGRs are continuing throughout Semester Two and into the summer - perfect for getting started with your dissertation, exam revision, and thesis writing! Sign up here.
What's on in Brum: Luna Springs
Luna Springs based at Digbeth is a unique new outdoor venue offering a range of food and drink, including bottomless brunch and live music.
Explore Birmingham
And finally...
- Have you completed your Census yet? If you haven't completed your Census, it's important that you complete it as soon as possible. Find out more about the Census and how to complete it.
- West Midlands Cycle Hire launching soon. The scheme will see over 700 bikes and 80 docking stations distributed across the city offering more people the opportunity to enjoy cycling and provide a convenient and sustainable alterative to the car for shorter journeys. Find out more and register.
- Lateral flow testing research study – have your say. The University have launched a survey regarding lateral flow testing for COVID-19, in collaboration with Birmingham City Council. The research is intended to gather views on lateral flow testing strategies. Complete the survey here.
- The Birmingham Commonwealth Games are fast approaching. With the University hosting athletes and events there's going to be plenty of opportunity for you to get involved with the games. Keep an eye out on the student intranet over the next few weeks for more information on volunteering opportunities and tickets for students.
- Catering outlets across campus and the Vale Village will offer indoor catering from Monday 17 May. You can see the latest opening hours for catering outlets here.
- Recruiting a new Vice-Chancellor. With Professor Sir David Eastwood due to retire at the end of the year, the selection process has begun for a new Vice-Chancellor. Read the update here.
- We would like to wish a happyEid Mubarak to all our students who will be celebrating the end of Ramadan.