Kelly Coate, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Education and Students

Kelly Coate, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students, wrote to all taught students this morning (25 February). You can read the full message below:

Dear students,

The Make it Happen event series returns next month. Make it Happen is a series of online events featuring panels of Sussex alumni, from recent graduates to CEOs and Directors, who will be sharing their career experiences and giving valuable insights into working in their industries.
 
The University provides opportunities for our students to meet inspirational and talented people through initiatives such as Make it Happen. Getting involved in these initiatives can help to enrich your learning experience. They can also empower you with skills to develop a rewarding career after your studies at Sussex. An example of one key initiative we offer is our Entrepreneurs in Residence scheme, and I was, therefore, deeply saddened to learn of the passing last Sunday of Jamal Edwards, one of our founding Entrepreneurs in Residence. 
 
Jamal was on campus last autumn, when he shared his enthusiasm, business expertise and advice with a group of Sussex students. 
 
My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
 
Read on for this week's update:

• Final year students - National Student Survey
• Covid-19 guidelines
• Strike action
• Nominations for Students' Union Officer are now open
• LGBTQ+ History Month
• Sustainable Sussex week

Final year students - National Student Survey

Thank you to all the final year students who have already completed the National Student Survey. The NSS is one of the most important and influential sources of information about Higher Education in the country. With your feedback, you're helping prospective students make an informed decision about their choice of course and university, and improve student experience for all. 
 
If you have not filled in the survey yet, this is your chance to share your views about your course, your tutors and your experience at Sussex.
 
For each completed survey, we're donating £1 to one of the four charities chosen by you, and if you take part before 28 February, you can win a graduation package worth £150.

Covid-19 guidelines

On Monday 21 February, the Government announced upcoming changes to Covid-19 guidance. Check the Student Hub to find out what this meant for you at Sussex:

• Face coverings
• Getting tested
• Self-isolation and support payments
• International students

 It is no longer a legal requirement to self-isolate. This means isolation payments have ended. You have until Monday 7 March 2022 to submit a late claim using our reporting form.

Strike action

Since Monday, some staff have chosen to take strike action – as Sussex is one of the universities included in nationwide industrial action. Check the Student Hub for the latest information.

Nominations for Students' Union Officer are now open

Students' Union Officers play an essential role in representing all students at University and they have a critical role in helping to develop the student experience. Being a Students’ Union officer also provides great career opportunities. No experience is necessary as full training and support is provided for all officers - plus salaries are available for the full-time officer roles. So if you want to make positive change at Sussex apply for an SU Officer role before midday on 4 March.

LGBTQ+ History Month

Brighton & Hove City Council have organised a series of free exhibitions, films and family activities in the Jubilee Library until 28 February to celebrate LGBTQ+ History Month. Find out more

Sustainable Sussex week

Finally, next week we'll be celebrating Sustainable Sussex Week in partnership with the Students’ Union’s Climate Justice Week. The sustainability team has planned a full programme of activities ranging from thrift fairs and recycling competitions to hill cleans and tips to reduce your digital footprint.
 
Join me on Friday 4 March at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts to hear current students Pitch for the Planet and to find out who won our competitive Climate Leader Prizes!

With best wishes,
 
Kelly

Kelly Coate
Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students

Back to news list