Hello,

I hope you are (re)settling into life at Sussex and the rhythm of teaching and learning this term. Autumn is a great time to explore new opportunities to enhance your experience, including applying for a leadership role through the Students’ Union or attending Academic Skills Workshops to support your studies.

As the nights draw in and campus gets busier, remember that Sussex aims to be a caring and inclusive community, and you have an important role in this. Whether you are attending events, celebrating Halloween, or travelling off campus, please enjoy yourself, show respect for others, stay aware, and make sure you and your friends get home safely.

It is also a time when payments for University accommodation and tuition fees for those who pay them directly are due. I know this can be difficult and if you are feeling worried about money or finding it hard to manage your finances, support is available. The Money Advice team can help with budgeting, understanding your student funding, and exploring any extra financial support that might be available. You can book an appointment through MySussex to speak with an adviser should you need it.

My thoughts are with everyone affected by the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa in the Caribbean. The University has contacted all students who have declared a nationality or home address in the countries impacted, to ensure that they are aware of the support available to them. Further advice, guidance and support offered by the University for anyone affected can be found here.

Please read on for this week’s news and opportunities, including:

• Lewes Bonfire Night: everything you need to know
• Meningitis in young people, recognising the early signs
• Apply for a leadership role through SU Co-option
• Black at Sussex Guest Lecture with Jude Idada
• Black History Month Trade Fair – today!
• Creative events at the Attenborough Centre
• Academic Skills Workshops: Reflective Writing
• Money Advice and Support
• On-campus student spaces: where you can work, unwind, or meet up
• Canine Cuddles at the Meeting House
• Win £1,000 with Santander’s Brighter Futures Grants

Lewes Bonfire Night 2025: everything you need to know

Please note that there will be significant transport limits near Lewes on 5 of November. Trains do not run in or out of Lewes on the night, and roads are closed. Lewes Bonfire Night is intended for Lewes town residents, and students are strongly discouraged from attending. You can follow this on Lewes the Podcast and for full details, please see Visit Lewes.

Meningitis in young people, recognising the early signs

It is important to know the symptoms of meningitis so that you can act quickly if you or someone you know becomes unwell. Meningitis can develop rapidly and can be very serious if not treated, so recognising the early warning signs and seeking medical help immediately is important. Take a few minutes to read about meningitis symptoms and how to protect yourself.

Vaccines offer the best protection against meningitis. If you are a UK or international student under 25 years old and have not yet been vaccinated, you can get the MenACWY vaccine for free through the NHS. Contact your GP to arrange an appointment.

Apply for a leadership role at Sussex Students’ Union

If you want to make a difference at Sussex, now is your chance to take on a leadership role with the Students’ Union. The Co-option process is open, and the Union is inviting applications for key student leadership positions.

These roles offer a valuable opportunity to shape the student experience, represent your peers, and develop your skills in leadership, organisation, and advocacy.

Find out more and apply through the Students’ Union Co-option page.

Black at Sussex Guest Lecture: Jude Idada - today

Thursday 30 October, 15.00–16.30

Join award-winning writer, filmmaker, and thinker Jude Idada for a thought-provoking guest lecture exploring tensions within the global Black community. This event forms part of the Black at Sussex series celebrating Black History Month.

The lecture will take place online, offering space for open reflection and dialogue around identity, representation, and connection.

Find out more on the University of Sussex events page.

Black History Month Trade Fair – today

Step into a vibrant celebration of Black culture, creativity, and community at this year’s Black History Month Trade Fair!

Discover creativity and culture at the Attenborough Centre
There is always something inspiring happening at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts (ACCA).

Take part in the CINECITY 36-Hour Film Challenge, 36-Hour Film Challenge on Sunday 9 November. With up to £1,000 in prize money, this filmmaking marathon is open to all students.

EXXY by Dan Daw Creative Projects, Thursday 6 November 2025. Part dance, part comedy, 100% emotion, EXXY explores imposter syndrome and fluctuating self-worth through the story of a queer dance artist under pressure to stay at the top of his game. (“EXXY” is Australian slang for “that’s expensive, mate.”)

Academic Skills Workshops: Reflective Writing

Developing your reflective writing skills can help you understand your learning process, improve your academic work, and prepare for professional contexts.

You can attend workshops on campus or online, run by our experienced Academic Skills Consultants:

On Campus – Wednesdays, 13.30–14.30 - 5 November: Reflective Writing

Online – Thursdays, 14.00–15.00 - 6 November: Reflective Writing

Find details and book your place on the Skills Hub workshops page.

Money Advice and Support

If you are feeling worried about money or finding it hard to manage your finances, remember that support is available. The Money Advice team can help with budgeting, understanding your student funding, and exploring any extra financial support that might be available. You can book an appointment through MySussex to speak with an adviser.

On-campus student spaces: where to go when you need to work, unwind or meet up
Whether you are studying alone, working with others, or just need a calm spot to relax, there are many great spaces across campus. From dedicated study areas and social zones to quiet reflection rooms, Sussex offers flexible spaces for all types of study and rest. For example, for teamwork or discussion, use the open social zones and Student Centre collaboration areas.

Discover your perfect spot on the On-campus study spaces page.

Canine Cuddles at the Meeting House

If you are looking for a way to relax and recharge, come along to Canine Cuddles at the Meeting House . These weekly sessions give you the chance to spend time with friendly therapy dogs in a calm, welcoming environment.

Sessions take place every week and are open to all students. You can book your free place via Eventbrite.

Win £1,000 with Santander’s Brighter Futures Grants

Sussex students have the chance to win one of ten £1,000 grants, exclusively available to University of Sussex students through the Santander Universities Brighter Futures Grants programme.

The grants are open to all Sussex students, part-time, full-time, undergraduate, or postgraduate, and you do not need to bank with Santander to apply.

You can use the £1,000 towards study resources, accommodation, bills, or anything else that helps make life a little easier.

Apply now through the Santander Open Academy website.

Celebrating a rising star: Sandra Juan Delgado

Congratulations to the winner of the Rising Star Award at the prestigious Cateys Awards 2025 which is our very own Sandra Juan Delgado, Sustainability Manager for Sussex Uni Food. Sandra’s returnable cup scheme alone reduced single-use waste by 30%, saving over £6,500 and diverting 35,000 cups from landfill in just nine months. She also helped cut food waste by nearly 40% through smart tracking and menu changes. Read more about Sandra and her achievements.

With best wishes,

Kate

Professor Kate O'Riordan

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students)