Courier 1409

Monday 28 September 2020 Issue 1409 | Free

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COURIER

THE INDEPENDENT VOICE OF NEWCASTLE STUDENTS

Freshers Edition

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Monday 28 September 2020

What's changed with timetabling Newcastle's Education Officer and Postgraduate Officer shed light into how the University have adapted to COVID-19 in semster one. Page 2

Current Affairs | Comment Protest and democracy Abjol Miah examines the impact of recent protest movements, from Black Lives Matter to the Arab Spring. Page 5 What is a rah?

Over the summer, Comment ran on a survey on the University's most infamous stereotype. This issue, they share their findings. Page 5

Medium

Interview with a clearing volunteer The Courier look back at August, and dive head first into the bedlam of A-level clearing. Page 4

Difficulty:

Current Affairs | News

Sodoku 28th September 2020

Inside 28th September 2020

News

Interview with the Education and Postgraduate Officers Alex Gervas

W — News sub-editor

Life & Style | Food Getting through the first week of uni How to make an easy vegetarian curry, kitchen essentials, online shopping and more. Page 7

Culture | Guide to Newcastle Art galleries and arcades Music, Film, TV and Gaming writers give their recommendations of the very best of Newcastle's cultural scene. Pages 10-11

Sport Newcastle's biggest and best Sport editors delve into the city's football and rugby talent. Page 30-31

ith the beginning of the academic year looming in, I interviewed Education Officer, Sian Dickie and Postgraduate Officer, Charlotte Boulton about the timetables for semester one.

How certain is it that the university will be able to keep face-to-face teaching for semester one?

Charlotte Boulton (CB): The university is planning to uphold its kind of commitment to up to three hours of present in-person teaching.

That refers to the traditional faceto-face teaching that you would expect from like a seminar or a lab.

Obviously, things are always subject to change because coronavirus doesn’t care about the plans you’ve made.

What about those who have immunodepressed systems or feel too anxious to go to class?

CB: The way that it’s going to be organized is through the student portal S3P. You have to register whether you are on-campus or offcampus. This will help with timetables so that there’s a little mark next to your name; if you’re not on campus they won’t timetable you for an in-person class. Hopefully, the university will be understanding of people having to take absences because of things like self-isolation or illness or any other reason.

Sian Dickie (SD): I’m sure if people were feeling particularly anxious, it’s something they’d be able to change

or let their lectures know they’ll be absent from in-person sessions.

It was suggested that classes would start from 8 a.m., right?

SD: The options were early mornings, which would have been from eight, and then late evenings or Saturdays. I know nobody would have liked to go on Saturday either.

would reduce teaching so that people who do sports could do sports and that has led to Wednesday afternoon being traditionally seen as a free afternoon where a lot of societies would do events. University, of course, is about teaching and learning, but it also is about getting involved with extracurricular activities like societies, student media, sport…

SD: I think society stuff is even more CB: I think the Union and the important now than what it would be University all acknowledged that none on a regular year. In terms of student of these options were retention as well, ideal, but something Hopefully the uni will keeping students had to give to allow interested in the them to facilitate be understanding of university, it’s in-person teaching. really important We didn’t want people having to take to have that time, to take Saturdays obviously absences because of but from students who things change. needed a weekend self-isolation off to recharge, or When can we work. […] expect timetables Charlotte Boulton, to be released?

Postgraduate Officer SD: There are a lot of different ways you could look SD: It obviously has to go through at it. The late evenings weren’t great approval for teaching staff, and either, because you think about people it needs to be discussed at a getting home far away from campus. departmental level as well. I’m hoping If they’ve got children, they might that they’ll get it done for roughly need to get their kids to school in the same time as they did in previous the morning. We put across several years. Still, obviously things are a little different perspectives, and we tried to bit different with teaching starting at give voice to as many kinds of student different times. So, I would just say groups as we could. Still, at the end expect your timetable, hopefully, and of the day, it was the university’s at least before teaching starts. decision.

CB: I would generally assume that Why are Wednesday afternoons so around the time of induction, things important for student activities? will be in place. We’re having an online induction program this year, CB: Traditionally there’s been an which is just in over two weeks. I don’t agreement between the universities think we could say, we couldn’t say an and Students Unions to keep exact date of when to expect it by, but Wednesday afternoons free of just to reassure students that staff are teaching, mainly for undergraduates working really hard to get it out as and in relation to BUCS. Universities soon as possible.

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Monday 28 September 2020

News Newcastle and Northumbria Universities unveil new safety measures in open letter

Higher-ups, including the Vice Chancellor and Students' Union President from both Universities, have explained new COVID-19 precautions Grace Piercy

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n 17 September, Newcastle University released an open letter on their website stating the University’s plans for the upcoming term.

The statement shared “some of the steps we are putting in place to ensure [students] safe return to our campuses, our city and the surrounding areas”.

However, the letter made no mention of the cyber attack and seemed to be more focused on how the University has adapted to become more ‘COVIDsecure’.

Below is a summary of the open

letter from the University: • Quarantine – students in University-managed accommodation who have travelled from a country where quarantine is required will continue to be supported with food and other essential items during their isolation period.

to Newcastle and form a ‘household’ with other students.

• Learning environment – a blended learning experience which includes online and face-to-face teaching will be delivered. Face-to-face teaching will be delivered within COVIDsecure guidelines and rules will respond to new local guidance as needed. The University insists that new regulations will not affect the quality of teaching.

• ‘COVID-secure’ campus – a number of physical changes have been made to campus. This includes one-way systems, defined points of access, socially distanced Both universities [sic]... catering, hand reinforce our shared sanitisation points and enhanced responsibility within cleaning.

the community and to

• Managing people – the number of people on campuses each day will be kept to a minimum via adjustments to the timetable.

Staff will continue to work from home when possible.

• Accommodation keep each other safe – accommodation ‘bubbles’ or Excerpt from open letter ‘households’ will be formed, and the move-in process has been structured across an • Travel – by changing teaching extended period to limit interactions and extending the teaching day, the between ‘bubbles’. The additional demand for public transport has been measures announced on 17 September reduced and spread across the day. will not affect students’ ability to move Staff and students should only come

Image: Wikimedia Commons to campus when necessary, by walking and cycling where possible. To ensure this, parking for staff will be provided. which is only a few minutes long and Test and trace – done using internal touches on a few points: systems.

The University will No personal data We are committed to •was work with the NHS compromised to help identify in the cyber doing everything we those who may attack.

The have been in close can to minimise risks Vice Chancellor contact with a reassures that Excerpt from open letter positive case, and there is no need for react as quickly as students to worry possible. It will also work with other about the safety of their personal partners to increase test facilities in information. the city.

• Canvas is working properly, and • Operation Oak – funded by the University will be relying on it for Newcastle and Northumbria to online teaching in the coming year. provide extra policing in residential areas with a high student density. This • Lastly, the timetable portal is now year it will be extended to provide working: students should expect their support to the police to enforce social new timetables to go online from 5 distancing measures.

October onwards.

There was a significant lack of information about the cyber attack in the open letter, which was later touched upon in an unlisted video featuring Vice Chancellor Chris Day. Below is a summary of the video,

The open letter was published through the Newcastle University Press Office, where some other updates are also available.

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News Societies prepare for new social distancing guidelines Societies are doing all they can to keep up with fast-changing guidelines Gemma Powell

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ocieties are finding it increasingly difficult to plan activities as the government impose a local lockdown Alex Battersby, president of the Comedy society, details plans to host stand-up and sketch sessions either online or at an available park. However, this all depends on whether gatherings of thirty people outdoors are allowed once again. For now, the comedy club have to move all activities to online and radio-format.

Arts societies are especially impacted by the new restrictions Arts societies are especially impacted by the restrictions in place, and despite having spent the summer organising different ways to run their activities, plans are still up in the air, says Battersby.

The society realise that keeping members updated and connected by social media will be important this year, as plans may change on a weekly

Monday 28 September 2020

Image: pxclz on Instagram

basis. The Feminist Society at Newcastle members of mathsoc will be able to University inform The Courier that they participate in quizzes, bingo nights and will use online spaces to continue both a fantasy premier league. their socials, and their activist work.

Some societies plan to use online For example, Femsoc president Harriet events to their advantage. Filmsoc Sloane says that they will be holding tell The Courier that their heads of three online campaigns in semester production are creating lessons in solo 1 alone: Black film-making in order We hope that the ac- to make the most of History Month, International at home tivites we have come members’ Stress Awareness locations.

Week and UN Filmsoc will also up with will allow International Day continue to host of Persons with students to socialise as Netflix Parties and Disabilities.

BBC Together on a Alongside Wednesday, and live much as possible these campaigns, stream their radio Fem Soc president Harriet Sloane exciting online show via zoom every events such Saturday. Online pub as bingo, a live feminist art market, quizzes and ‘pitchstorm’, (a party game a book club and self-care sessions where you can pitch movie ideas), will (intersectionalitea) have been planned be carried out on their discord server. for Femsoc members. The society are For the Disability and Neurodiversity keen to continue to provide a safe space Society, activities for the entirety of for vulnerable and marginalised groups semester 1 will be online regardless of students. of restrictions, says secretary Gemma “It has been a challenge to develop Powell. events that get the same amount of “Certain groups of students, such engagement from students as previous as former shielders and international in-person events” says Sloane. students, are unable to make it to “We all hope that the activities we campus so it is important to make sure have come up with will allow students all societies are planning accessible to socialise as much as possible.” events”.

Newcastle’s mathematics society are The Disability and Neurodiversity taking a similar approach: despite being Society plan to continue their known for their weekly pub quiz and discussions on different aspects that metro bar crawl, the club are planning affect the community via weekly coffee to move all their socials online in the mornings and the occasional zoom upcoming academic year. quiz.

From the comfort of their own home,

Interview with clearing volunteer Alex Gervas interviews Alison Shaw, who was on the clearing line for new students Alex Gervas

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— News sub-editor

fter the government’s U-turn and the sudden changes in admissions, the clearing process has been dealing with numerous enquiries. I interview clearing volunteer, Alison Shaw, about how it has affected the University.

What is your position at the University?

My role is to make sure that the University continues to improve how it supports students from different backgrounds. At the University, we traditionally recruit students who have reached a high level of prior attainment.

That means that the diversity of the student body has been drawn from a narrower range of population than at some universities. So, my job is to examine things like the curriculum, the way we teach, support, and assess students, to enable everyone to succeed on a level playing field.

What do you do as a clearing volunteer?

As a clearing volunteer, there is a lot of preparatory work to make sure that we are fully responsive to the incoming calls. That was particularly the case this year: because of all the changes that students were experiencing, there were higher volumes of calls at particular times. In principle, we were making sure that the callers were well-prepared to answer calls so students didn’t have to wait on the line for too long.

Some of those students, of course, were feeling stressed or anxious or had low confidence in talking to somebody in an academic environment. My job was to answer in a way that would put callers at ease, assuring them that I would go the extra mile to help answer their queries correctly or refer them to the right people.

I answered in a way that put callers at ease How did the University deal with the government’s U-turn and the increase in eligible students?

It obviously had implications right

across the University’s finances, timetabling and staffing levels. Even under normal circumstances, it could have had a significant bearing on the logistics of making the right facilities available. Now, we had to put social distancing requirements and blended learning planning on top of that. Given all these unexpected impacts, planning and forecasting was new and different territory for everyone.

Partly out of moral, and partly contractual responsibility, we decided that we were going to honour the offers that we’d made through Clearing. First, we had confirmation for those who already secured their places. Then there was round one of Clearing. Because of the Ofqual process, a proportion of students hadn’t met the offer conditions.

But, it all changed again and people who thought they hadn’t got in found out they had been accepted. In the end, the processes that the University had put in place and the careful monitoring of offer-making meant we could have had more students than we planned for, but our preparations paid off and recruitment in the end matched what students and the University were hoping for.

How did the removal of the cap in places affect the University?

It provided a real challenge to the University, and the system as well. One of the challenges of the system as a

There was a national fear that recruiting universities would suffer because their numbers would drop whole is the hierarchy of universities, which exists whether we like it or not.

There was a national fear that recruiting universities would suffer because their numbers would drop, and students would rush to get into places at what are so-called ‘elite’ universities.

But even if caps are lifted, there are still limitations in places. There are limitations, particularly this year, on space, placement and staffing because you can’t suddenly expand courses without planning ahead and recruiting more colleagues.

I think there were natural limiting factors and ethical practices that were applied meant that over-recruiting to the detriment of other universities or the quality of our courses didn’t happen. The amount of effort and focus required from universities to deal with the grading fiasco alongside the lifting of the cap was enormous. I think it took a toll on the University in terms of effort and time and exhaustion for some people that have been working really

hard all summer.

Of the students calling, what were their main concerns?

I think the level of uncertainty was deeply stressful for a lot of students.

The conversations I was having with them demonstrated that they needed sensitive, thoughtful support. It’s easy for people to assume that young people hate exams and school when the opposite is the case. They’ve been working from such a young age towards being able to prove what they could achieve as a result of their hard work over the years. To have that opportunity taken away from them, back in March, I think was disrespectful to students and teachers.

What I felt is that they were grateful to talk to somebody that reassured them that we believed in the quality of what they’ve done and in the potential that they had to get to a place at University.

I think that there was still a feeling that this generation, and their achievements, were being put under question.

I hope I’ll cross paths with some of the students I was talking to who will be confident, happy, settled students at Newcastle University.

Monday 28 September 2020

Comment Is Newcastle uni COVID-secure?

The two faces of protest Abjol Miah

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here are two types of protesters and what unites them is their discontent with democracy. On the one hand, we have the ‘trendsetters’ – those who lie on the fringes and the offshoot deadwood of capitalism, corruption and liberal democracy.

And then there are the ‘trend-markers’ – fashionable among the young, these are the hashtag youngsters who imitate Les Misérables for a week – so long as they’re home for dinner at 6.

Let us ensure the voices in the background are not smoke screened by the wellmeaning trendsetters Democracy is seen as a level playing field whereby no matter how expressive or indifferent one’s opinion, we all hold just one vote. One issue which arises is this effectively silences any minority group, and as we’ve seen in USA, this is the route to death. Be it the AfricanAmericans in Minneapolis, the Twitter revolutions of the Arab Spring or the anti-maskers in Greater London these, whatever you think of their demands, these are all legitimate discontents of a system which prioritises those

with the biggest idle crowds, living happily and comfortably, over the real socioeconomic experience of minorities. Are they on the rise? Absolutely. But beware the impostor.

While they raise important structural issues, the ‘colour revolutionaries’ and trend-makers are creating a rising movement of protesting issues outside of themselves and their phenomenal environments.

In other words, while showing ‘solidarity’ on race relations or climate change they transform the issues of necessary protest into an isolated object of which they’re not a part. No longer are some of these protests about the threatened lived experience of the unheard; they’ve become a pet-hobby of young people who have free time on a Saturday. To where did BLM allies with their Instagram posts vanish?

Does extinction rebellion matter now the roads been cleared? Who is Greta Thunberg?

The world has much to revolt against as polarised worldviews render groups marginalised, threatened and alienated.

But let us ensure the voices in the background are not smoke screened by the well-meaning trendsetters.

W Gemma Powell

ith the return to campus in just a few weeks, questions must now be asked about Newcastle University’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most importantly, are they doing enough to protect students and locals alike?

Students have already been informed that the time they will physically spend on campus is to be substantially reduced.

The majority of lectures and seminars are instead to be delivered on Zoom.

On campus, everyone will be expected to follow one-way systems designed to adhere to the two-metre social distancing rule. All teaching rooms and laboratories have been arranged to maintain this distance. When a student is not able to follow the distancing rule, a face covering is compulsory.

The University is set to provide an estimated 35,000 ‘safety packs’ to staff and students. Each of these will contain a digital thermometer, reusable face covering and a refillable hand sanitiser bottle.

In addition, Newcastle University has developed a university-wide version of ‘Track and Trace’. The COVID-19 Early Warning System will be used to monitor reported symptoms amongst

Image: danadrewdles on Instagram

the University population in order to prevent high levels of transmission within the community.

Despite these measures, which aim to reduce the likelihood of an outbreak within the University population, concerns surrounding the mixture between local and student population remain. Young people with COVID-19, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic, who continue to visit public places are a particular concern for the elderly.

There seems to also be a lack of advice for international students. There has been little information about isolating, especially if they are returning from a country, which doesn’t legally require a 14-day quarantine period but perhaps may be beneficial for the wider community.

The university has left loose ends and unanswered questions The University has left some loose ends and unanswered questions. There is very little detail about Semester Two, and a distinct lack of information explaining how the exam period will be executed fairly and safely. It feels as though students are growing tired with poor guidance about very serious aspects of student life.

What is a rah? An evidence-based analysis The term is commonly used in the Toon, but what does it mean actually?

Muslim Taseer

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— Comment sub-editor

eaders may have by now vaguely heard the term ‘rah’. Whether it was heard thrown about in conversation or hotly debated by Newfess, many of you will have wondered what exactly a Rah is.

Fear not, we at Comment have set out to properly define once and for all this Northern student culture epithet. We sent out a survey via

We have accumlated 256 responses to the question Newfess Guerilla Marketing and other venues, and have acummulated 256 responses to the question “What is a rah?”.

A surprising amount were actually helpful, with many comprehensive lists and descriptions and anecdotes coming in. Some people wrote a lot, with paragraphs upon paragraphs of

Rah might actually be an acronym for "rich arse hole" comprehensive description coming in. Highlights from these will be shared in the future, but for now: Based on the results, a rah is a pejorative term for a type of student that is a posh, southern, rich, (annoying twat) that acts a certain way, dresses a certain way, goes to certain bars and hangs out around certain spots.

That would be a vague definition, but thanks to 256 of you, we can elaborate.

Perhaps the main common descriptor associated with rahs is wealth. A typical rah is, if nothing else, affluent.

One response noted that a rah generally has ‘more money than sense’.

Perhaps less often specified but generally accepted is that they are posh. Traits stemming from this are a general sense of cluelessness about struggle, (which often leads to them coming across as knobs), snobbery, southern-ness and, obviously, a private school education. Interestingly enough, ‘polite’ and ‘well-spoken’ also came up on a lot of responses.

Rah apparel is a very aptly described fashion. Described as ‘vintage chic’ at

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best and ‘dressing like a homeless person’ at worst, rahs seem to be keen on a certain type of fashion, plucked from vintage sales and depop accounts.

Items such as puffer jackets, flares, ski clothing, fancy shoes, trackies and headbands are reported, as well as a penchant for mullets. A sense of wanting to look ‘poor’ or ‘simple’ in attire is described, with some going to far as to call it a faux ‘working class aesthetic’.

Other interesting notes on general demeanor also pop up, most frequently that they smoke rollies, snort powders and have signet rings.

Mention of leapord print showed up a

worrying amount of times.

In terms of where they hang out, there seems to be a fair answer. Most commonly, the rah bars on Osborne road are a hotspot. In town, you’ll see them at Tup-tup and Swingers and other unusual clubs. First year rahs live at Castle Leazes, and Jesmond is a hive for them.

An interesting note on the etymology of the term is that according to a good chunk of answers, rah is actually an acronym, standing for ‘rich arse hole’.

On the other hand, several responses noted that this was a misconception, and that the actual term was either derived from an exclamation a rah might make, “rah!”.

The answers saying the latter tend to be from old students, those who have been around for longer, but two selfprofessed rahs touted the second explanation.

What we do have now is a solid definition of rahism, and a good list of characteristics for rah-spotting.

With your new found knowledge, go forth, and observe.

Monday 28 September 2020

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Life & Style

How to make a perfect at-home work station Caitlin Sinclair

Equipment

Taking breaks

n the unprecedented times of COVID-19, many students will be working from home with teaching being predominantly online. Creating a productive and efficient workspace is vital and there are many ways you can achieve this from home and on a budget.

Headset/ Headphones: A headset may prove useful if you are working in a communal area in the house or are working in proximity with another person.

Hand Sanitizer: Whether you are working in a communal area or in your own space, disinfecting the working area will never be a bad idea, particularly in the current climate. Ensuring all surfaces are regularly kept clean will ensure you are doing all you can to avoid spreading germs!

Taking short, frequent breaks away from your desk or workspace is crucial to ensure that you are not overworking whilst allowing you to associate that space with work. It will also help if you are prone to bad posture as you will avoid having back or neck pain.

Getting outdoors and going for a walk may also prove useful, particularly on days where you wouldn’t usually be leaving the house. This is not only good for de-stressing but will result in more productivity in the long term as you will avoid burning out.

Working from home will be new to many students and ultimately everyone will be likely to have unproductive days. But there are small ways that may allow you to make these fewer and farther between and help you adapt to athome learning.

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Well-lit and well-heated environments help ensure that you're comfortable

Location and Environment A well-lit space, preferably by a window (if you can avoid the temptation to people watch) and a well heated area, will not only reduce eye strain but also ensure you are comfortable creating the optimal environment for at-home learning.

Productivity will inevitably be reduced if you are distracted by your housemates or anyone else who may be in your flat, therefore working in a quiet space will help you avoid procrastination.

Tidy desk, tidy mind! Although a bit of a cliché, a cluttered desk will likely leave you overwhelmed and less likely to want to work. A tidy area will help reduce stress and allow you to work comfortably.

A desk pad or calendar helps you to plan your week at a glance, and break down your daily tasks Desk Pad/Calendar: This will allow you to plan your week at a glance and break down your daily tasks. Desk pads are perfect for maximizing productivity as they allow you to map out both your work tasks and life commitments to encourage balance. They can also help with time management by breaking down the hours of the day and the tasks.

Sighh by Polly do some great ones!

Printer: Although perhaps not quite innkeeping with a small budget, this may be a requirement if you are unable to go to communal areas such as the library or your subject specific buildings to print off documents you require.

Image: flickr

Memories of Newcastle

Lifestyle editor Meg Howe looks back at her time at university so far Meg Howe

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fter the last five months, it almost seems impossible to look forward to a new year, which is surrounded by such uncertainty. However, looking back on memories of the year has made the thought of returning to Newcastle a little more exciting.

My first time visiting the Quayside is such a lovely memory! I visited it in both the summer and once the semester began when the weather was lovely, and spent the evening in The Quayside Wetherspoons, overlooking a gorgeous view of the river. Of course, we had a mini photoshoot on one of the many bridges with a gorgeous sunset behind us. I look forward to exploring the Quayside some more and visiting other pubs and bars that are along there.

As soppy as it seems, one of my favourite Newcastle memories is meeting my boyfriend on my first night of Freshers Week. The story of how we met is one that I really enjoy telling, and it’s all thanks to an inflatable flamingo!

Any nights out that include the blow-up inflatables are ones that I will never forget; there always seems to be a story worth telling that goes alongside them.

As someone who enjoys going out for a bite to eat more often than she cares to admit, I have to say that I’m rather looking forward to the wide array of food choices on offer when I return.

Some of my favourite memories of the last year

in Newcastle have been the places I have eaten!

Of course, I can’t mention my foody memories without mentioning the wonder that is Zapatistas! The Burrito Bar has served me very well, from loaded nachos to a large burrito, I’ve always enjoyed my food. I look forward to many more burritos in the coming months!

Another food memory of mine is my last meal in Newcastle before the lockdown period. My boyfriend and I went to Wagamama, and while the restaurant was pretty empty, the food was just as good. I look forward to another meal there for my 20th birthday in September!

The friends I have met this year have helped me make the best set of memories Of course, all of my amazing memories of Newcastle wouldn’t have been half as good if I hadn’t been surrounded by some of the most amazing people I met last year. Whether it was going for a full-blown night out, for casual drinks and food, or studying in the library, the friends I have met this year have honestly helped me make the best set of memories. No matter what the next semester holds, I know that I’ll definitely be able to make more memories surrounded by these people.

Looking back on the highlights of the past year makes me very excited to head back to Newcastle and revisit some of my favourite places, with my favourite people – as well as making some new ones...

Image: Ella Williams

Monday 28 September 2020

Life & Style

The student kitchen survival guide Meg Howe

— Lifestyle sub-editor

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magine this: it’s December and you are on your last few pounds of your student loan.

The weeks are painfully slow as you wait for you second payment to drop. You are unable to afford those expensive food items you’d really like to eat. But wait! Then you remember that you did a ‘big shop’ in your first few weeks in Newcastle and still have some of those essential food items because you read this article. Good job!

Coffee (and sugar)

I conducted some market research via Instagram stories, and over half of the responses that I had said rice, pasta and/or beans. Morrisons sell a 3kg bag of pasta for just under £3. So, if you’re me (someone who doesn’t eat huge portions of pasta), that would last you a pretty long time! Stocking up on this carb-enriched foods ensure you have the perfect base to go with any sauce.

In order to properly prepare you pasta, I like to have two pans. One to cook in the pasta, and the other to heat the sauce. I prefer this over cooking the pasta and then throwing the sauce straight on the top; it seems the taste of the sauce doesn’t fade. Add some Italian herbs, paprika and a little cayenne and you’re pretty much Gino D’Acampo!

Long-lasting

you’re feeling like a five-star-chef, they can be mixed in a chilli. Another staple can has to be soup! There’s nothing better than a warm bowl of soup (and a soft bread loaf from the SU co-op) when you’re back after a cold walk from campus.

If you’re microwaving these items, make sure to have a microwavable lid. It saves time having to clean the sides of the microwave after!

Images (clockwise from coffee bean): Food Navigator, Wickes, Dibetes UK, Freepix

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Bulk Meal Recipe llllllllllll

Joe Molander breaks down how to make four servings of a delicious, easy vegetarian curry Image: Yahoo

Maybe it’s just me, but coffee has become a huge essential in my cupboard since starting university. I did drink coffee during my a-level years, but maybe only once or twice a week. However, I now drink coffee every day! While I do enjoy an expensive cup from an independent coffee house, I could waste all my money that way (those are only treats) and I keep a huge jar on coffee in my cupboard. I would also recommend buying a huge bag of sugar to last you the full year in your initial shop (if you like your coffee sweet, of course); which means you don’t have to carry another heavy bag back from the shops with you.

I always enjoy my coffee from a rather large mug (that replicates that large drink save from the coffee shops!), so one of these is an essential to have, too.

Base foods (things that you can serve with just about anything)

Of course, when we think of student ‘cooking’ we think of beans on toast or canned curry. While you can make adventurous home cooked meals with fresh vegetables from Grainger Market, the tinned substitutes don’t age and are a happier option than walking into town in the northeastern breeze. Chopped tomatoes and baked beans both make staple items in a full English breakfast; can be served on their own w i t h to a s t ; or if

You will need 450g own brand curry sauce. Any will do, but tikka masala and korma are personal favourites. I do mean own brand: bulk cooking is all about the savings.

500g own brand microwaveable rice. Any will do, and I do mean own brand. Can you sense the trend here?

1 onion 75g frozen peas 1 tbsp olive oil

Shopping around during COVID-19 One of our music editors weighs up the pros and cons of buying food in-person and online Dominic Lee

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ood shopping as a student can be a stressful experience. It may be one of the first real experiences of budgeting that many of us have to deal with and with so many supermarket options at your fingertips it can be quite overwhelming.

In previous years, going to the supermarket was simple, there was no need to queue and masks weren’t mandatory inside. As a result, many students may be turning to online shopping as an alternative this year, either to keep risks to a minimum or to save the hassle of a going around a busy supermarket.

I’m going to into my third year of university now and have been to the same branch of Aldi in Gateshead since freshers week. Physically going to the supermarket obviously has its benefits. For starters you can go wherever you want and buy whatever you want. When you’re looking at the shelves you can find things that you otherwise wouldn’t have considered if you had been staring at a laptop screen. Additionally, visiting a supermarket in person gives you peace of mind

about the longevity of items like fruit and veg which you wouldn’t have from shopping online.

No matter where you live in Newcastle you will have access to a supermarket near you. Freshers living near campus or the city centre can visit several branches of Tesco and Sainsbury’s, or if you’ve got a little more to spend you can visit Waitrose or M&S. There’s even a branch of the Coop in the students union!

However, most these supermarkets are likely to be busy quite regularly, so if you’re concerned about being around too many people it might be wise to consider online shopping. Alternatively, you could go on a weekday morning or afternoon when the shops will be less busy than they are at the weekends.

On the other hand, when shopping online you can schedule your shopping to come on any day which suits you. Another benefit is that you can order your food from anywhere you like, as most of the major supermarkets offer delivery. However,

the obvious caveat is money as you’ll likely be spending more to get your shopping delivered than if you physically went to the supermarket.

Most delivery services will charge a fee and many have minimum spend limits that are more than the average student would pay in a week. One possible way around this is that if most of your flat shop in the same place you can order your food all together. This is certainly a popular option for many students but you’d be surprised at how many people shop in different places, so it can sometimes be difficult to coordinate this.

Whichever way you decide to shop this year make sure that you’re staying safe and considering the pros and cons of your options. Visiting the supermarket and online food shopping are both excellent options but as this is 2020, you may want to think a bit more in depth about what you do and how you do it.

Image: Today Show

Method Chop up the onion and add it to a pan with the olive oil.

Fry the onion for ten minutes on medium to high heat, moving the onion around with a spatula or tossing the pan itself. This is known as sautéing, which is a word far too sophisticated for this recipe.

After that, put the onion and curry sauce in a second pan and put on a medium heat for ten to fifteen minutes.

A few minutes before the sauce is done, it’s time to microwave the rice. For this recipe you’ll need roughly two packs, which you’ll need to microwave one after the other, following the instructions on the pack. It should be in the range of one to two minutes.

Remember when you were all fancy and sautéing onion?

When the rice is done, stir the peas into the curry sauce. You can do this as you’re serving, because the peas will cook in the heat of the sauce.

Serve in your brand new IKEA plate or bowl, and put the rest in a Tupperware container.

Welcome to university.

Joe Molander would like it known that if this meal tastes bad, it's something you're doing. If it tastes good, on the other hand, it is entirely down to his own cooking acumen.

Monday 28 September 2020

8

Life & Style

Hidden gems of the North East Next thrift shop stop: NCL Maud Webster reveals her favourite options for day trips in you new home in the North East Maud Webster

I

f you’re moving to Newcastle for the first time, get ready to be spoiled by the beautiful scenery. While the toon itself is full of secret treasures, the North East as a whole has just as many to offer.

Northumberland and County Durham offer wonderful options for day trips out with your new pals. Another thing to note is that by getting involved with societies like the Fellwalking society is an easy and cheap way to visit rural areas further afield.

Alnwick When you pair a short train to Alnmouth and then a ten minute bus ride onwards, you can find yourself in the picturesque town of Alnwick in less than an hour (it’s also a short drive if you’re lucky enough to have a car). Find here a remarkable castle, which served as the set of the Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films, as well as some charming cafes & pubs and the enchanting Barter Books bookshop.

Tynemouth Beach Okay, so this may be less of a hidden gem and more of a Newcastle student staple, but if you haven’t already been persuaded to visit the coastal town of Tynemouth, make sure you check it out ASAP.

Tynemouth has fire-pits, fish & chips and instagrammable beaches Fire-pits on the beach, fish & chips, instagramable beaches… and go for a dip in the North Sea, if you’re brave. If you prefer somewhere a bit less busy, but still an easy metro ride away, South Shields and Whitley Bay are other sea-

side towns either side of Tynemouth.

Windmill Hills Park Head down over one of Newcastle’s iconic bridges into its twin city, Gateshead. Walk for a few minutes west and you come across Windmill Hills Park; windy as the name suggests, but also boasting impressive views over the Tyne and Newcastle.

Windmill Hills Park boasts impressive views of St James', the Tyne and the Civic Centre From the viewing platform, you can spot St James', the Civic Centre and even some NCL buildings; get acquainted with your new city from across the river.

Bamburgh Bamburgh has a big ol’ castle you can wander around, acclaimed to be “England’s finest coastal castle”, as well as an idyllic beach. Even on a cloudy day, you can witness stunning views and if you come at the right time, there’s sometimes events and festivals held in the village.

Bamburgh has stunning views, and holds occasional festivals

High Force Waterfall The North East’s Niagara Falls surrogate: High Force Waterfall in County Durham is arguably the most impressive waterfall in the area. Watch in awe as the river thunders twenty-one metres down into a gorge dating back millions of years. Perhaps a bit of a trek from Newcastle, but definitely worth the trip if you ever get the opportunity.

Image: flickr

The best spots and hacks to get thrifty in Newcastle

L

Louise Cusine

et’s set the scene: its pandemic-style freshers week and you want to cheer yourself up by sprucing up your wardrobe, vinyl collection or even your bookshelf with some quintessentially vintage fashion, records or collectable books. It’s time to get thrifty so take a gander to the toon and you will be looking thrifty in no time!

Denim on denim on denim I completely lucked out when I went thrifting a few days ago as I found a burgundy denim jacket from British Heart Foundation It is so aesthetically pleasing and is a compliment to my evergrowing vintage wardrobe which is already predominantly burgundy.

The price of the jacket was £9.99 which is a bargain as it looks as though it has been worn once or twice; impeccable condition, who would have thought!

You can find designer brands in charity shops, for a fraction of the price

Spenny brands You probably wouldn’t expect to find designer brands such as AllSaints in a charity shop; I’m afraid your expectations are too low since my girlfriend picked up an AllSaints shirt from British Heart Foundation for £10 (originally around £85) and she does not look half bad in it!

Searching for sounds I have not stopped buying records for the past 3 years. It is an ongoing and costly addiction but it could be worse. HMV was my designated shop for buying records but that set me back around £30 per vinyl. However, I consider myself a changed woman after British Heart Foundation came through with the goods and I bought a used classical record. Just for the record it was worth the £1.99!

Fully booked You will be fully booked with the myriad of books that have hit the charity shop shelves. My go to book shops are Oxfam and Amnesty International.

Sometimes Oxfam has books for just £1 – I managed to pick up a hardcover copy of ‘Munich’

by Robert Harris for £1 (originally £20).

Amnesty also has a fine collection with a plethora of penguin books under deals such as 3 for £1. I have to admit that some of the books are slightly tatty but what do they say: do not judge a book by its cover!

Charity shops are also great ports of call for buying books

Pros of thrifting You are giving money to charity or independent shops which need money, especially during Covid to keep these shops on their feet.

Cons of thrifting Nothing.

Image: iStock

Monday 28 September 2020

Life & Style

9

My five step routine to Three students share mastering "maskne" their skincare secrets Charley Moran

T

he new normal now includes wearing a mask when in certain public places, however, this essential new way of life has caused many of us to break out, giving us the new phenomenon,

‘Maskne.’

During the summer I have been working in retail meaning I have to wear a mask all day which surprisingly hasn’t caused any inconvenience. The only issue is the mask shaped outline of spots that are now on my face! I have been lucky enough to have never really suffered from acne apart from when it is the time of the month. So, I’m going to talk through the products I have used which have worked wonders on my skin. Using them twice a day, morning and night to clear up my skin.

pores thus this facewash is essential. Within the first three days of using this, my ‘maskne’ began to clear. However, I used it religiously twice a day for two weeks by massaging it into my entire face with attention to the problem area.

3. Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Moisturiser This is a product we have all used at some point and it never fails. It hydrates your skin and lasts for hours. The main reason this helped with my ‘maskne’ is that my skin was not used to breakouts so it became sensitive. This was able to moisturize my skin without aggravating the problem area.

After drying my face with a clean towel, I would apply this all over my face.

1. Soap and Glory 4 in 1 deep cleansing milk

4. Argan organic anti-redness cream

My first step is to remove my makeup for which I use this Soap and Glory product. It removes the makeup easily with warm water and is both hydrating and moisturising to the face. It really does what it says on the bottle and ‘melts away makeup.’

Using only one pump I have found my makeup just washes away. Although I was not originally a massive fan of the soft texture as it almost felt greasy when combined with the following steps it works really well.

This cream is a new find for me. I have a redpigmented face and was trying to find a cream to neutralize this, and this did the job. It also has a benefit for the breakouts caused by ‘maskne’ as they were red and inflamed. Applying this cream on the problem areas I find that I wake up in the morning and the redness has calmed greatly.

2. Clean & clear exfoliating face wash I have always heard amazing reviews of this product with my friends labelling it as essential to their skincare routines. This product uses microbeads which help remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil from your pore to prevent them from becoming blocked, creating breakouts. Wearing a mask all day increases the likelihood of blocked

5. Sudocrem This is a personal favourite however does not work for everyone. But applying Sudocrem on each individual spot, I found, helped them heal much more quickly. It was also a nice relief as come evening they would often be more painful.

We all have different skin and we all know our own better than anyone. We know what works; we know what doesn’t. These five products have helped me with my ‘maskne, problem.

Pandemic fashion: nightlife edition A look at what's changed about going out since COVID-19 has hit Georgia Morson

W

hether you’re a fresher or a returning student, I’m sure that social distancing requirements, hand sanitiser stations, and closed nightclubs have never quite been a part of the university experience that you imagined. However, rest assured: with the new “normal”, all is certainly not lost!

With nightclubs now a distant memory, I have watched the Newcastle “nightlife” as we know it morph into something new. Due to Covid-19 restrictions and closures, more young people are now choosing pubs, bars and restaurants to socialise. Gone are the days of waiting until 10pm to go out; instead people are finally taking advantage of places being open! And with this transformation of Newcastle nightlife, fashion, too, has changed. The closure of nightclubs has introduced a more comfortable – not to mention warm – nightlife style.

This new nightlife attire means that the days of short dresses, cropped tops and no jackets are over

– for now, at least! To be honest, this is a complete relief to me; I am certainly not going to miss acting as though I am loving life in my dress, when in reality I am freezing (and slightly concerned about catching hypothermia). Now the nightlife style is much more casual and comfortable, with many people opting for a nice top, jeans and – most importantly – a jacket! This is one aspect of the new “normal” that I can actually appreciate, with my current favourite top, jeans and trainers not only being warm but more versatile than a dress and heels ever were.

I can spend more time in the city, and less time at home stressing about what to wear This more casual look also means I now feel comfortable going to a series of places, such as the shops, a restaurant and then a bar, without sticking out like a sore thumb in at least one of these places. In turn, this means that I can spend more time in the city centre, and less time at home stressing about what to wear. So, whilst Newcastle’s new nightlife fashion may not be what you had originally hoped for, I think you’ll agree with me when I say that it sure does feel good to be warm and comfortable.

Chloe Humphrys, Keira Carr & Josh Blackburn

N

ew term, new routine? We asked students to share their personal skincare routines and, whilst skin is individual, the following makes a good foundation for getting to know your own, and tailoring your new routine to suit you!

Chloe’s Routine There was a time when I thought that “skincare” meant simply dragging a cheap makeup wipe over my face. Today, it’s safe to say my routine has become considerably more advanced. I have always struggled with bad skin, but since discovering a routine that works for me, my skin has never been better!

In the mornings, I start off by using my Simple cleanser, then toner on a cotton pad, followed by the Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion (I highly recommend the Tea Tree collection if you suffer from bad breakouts!). The final step would be to put on moisturiser – unless I’m wearing makeup. I use The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum before applying makeup as it works as a perfect tacky primer for my foundation. I find that cheaper brands can react badly with my skin, so I try and use higher-end beauty products to avoid breakouts.

Makeup wipes can be harsh on your skin, and cause wrinkles At the end of the day, I remove my makeup with warm water and a microfiber cloth as I find that makeup wipes can be quite harsh on your skin – and they cause wrinkles! I then cleanse my face and pop on a little moisturiser if my skin feels particularly dry. I sleep on a silk pillow as this has proven to reduce breakouts too (you can get them on Amazon for super cheap). It may not be the most complex routine, but the hardest part is sticking to it!

Keira’s Routine The right skincare routine can do wonders for any issue. After 4 years of research (and lots of trial and error), I finally found my current routine inspired by Korean beauty.

Double Cleansing: Arguably the most important step, cleansing washes out any impurities you might have picked up during the day. I use one oil-based and one water-based product.

Toner: To boost the benefits of cleansing, I next use a toner. Toning reduces the appearance of pores while helping your skin absorb the next products you use. It can also help if you struggle with oiliness!

Essence and Serum: Con-

sidered vital in Koran skincare, and it’s easy to see why. They hydrate the skin intensely, absorb quickly and deeply into the pores, and even out your skin tone. You can use one or the other, but for a natural glow, I definitely recommend both.

Eye cream: For a long time, I overlooked eye cream. Now that I’ve started using it daily, I’m never going back – it wasn’t until I started actively hydrating that area that I realised how much I’d been neglecting it. It also only takes 10 seconds, so I have no excuse for skipping this step.

Moisturiser: With a T-zone as oily as mine, you’d think using 3 products designed for moisturising would be a bad idea, but the opposite is true. Just clearing your skin of the “bad” oils will only make your skin produce more. Using “good” oils eventually balances it out and gives you a not-too-shiny glow that overusing toner never will.

Josh’s Routine Lockdown has been tough for all of us – and especially tough on our skin. I hope that you have taken the time to experiment with skin products throughout confinement, but if not, fear not, as I have provided a good starting point to get the

Cleanse. Cleanse. Cleanse. skincare ball rolling.

Cleanse. Cleanse. Cleanse. Our skin goes through a lot of external pressure throughout the day, so ensure that washing the face is always the first step to any skincare routine. For best results, steam the face with hot water for three to four minutes before applying the wash, afterwards rinse with cool water to close the pores.

The skin is now prep’d to be reset. Recommendation: Boots Tea Tree and Witch Hazel Foaming Face Wash The purpose of any toner is to prime the skin for better absorption of products used later in the routine. I am very happy to have become acquainted with this toner in particular (below), as the clean, floral scent makes the skin feel pure and refreshed upon application. Always remember to apply with a cotton wool pad. Recommendation: L’Oréal Fine Flowers Cleansing Toner.

Many people seem to shy away from serums, fearing that they are using them incorrectly, but they actually even complexion and improve elasticity! Apply a few drops to your palms and rub gently on face and neck for a hydrated feel, day and night. Recommendation: Danielle Laroche Turmeric Natural Face Oil (Great for novices!)

Moisturiser replenishes the skin’s moisture level and is absolutely vital to your routine. After two years of using my current moisturiser, it still provides the wow factor! Recommendation: The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Cream. Check out The Body Shop for a great range of Vitamin E moisturising products!

Image: Grapevine Birmingham

Monday 28 September 2020

10

Culture MUSIC

THE COURIER Cultur

The Tunes of the Toon Evie Lake

W

hen talking about the North-East’s musicians, Sam Fender, Nadine Shah and (depending on your age) Sting are the names that’ll probably crop up first, and that’s great, they’re amazing artists. However, our music scene boasts an extensive and incredible pool of talented musicians who are slowly rising through the ranks.

Art galls over student halls

Amelia Thorpe

C

alling all art lovers! In this list I will showcase Newcastle’s four most notable art galleries and will give you a run down on what each one has in store for their visitors from now until the foreseeable future.

Laing Art Gallery Kicking off the list with my personal favourite, located in heart of the city, the Laing Art Gallery is a local classic; think the Tate Britain… but with a much more intimate and undeniably Geordie atmosphere. The gallery holds regularly changing exhibitions of historic, modern and contemporary art, boasting work from locally, nationally, and even internationally acclaimed artists. Alongside their permanent exhibitions, the Laing feature works from 19th/20th century artists William and Evelyn De Morgan: ‘Two of the Rarest Spirits of the Age’ until 26 September. Then, between 17 October 2020 – 27 February 2021, ‘Art Deco by the Sea’ will explore how the Art Deco style transformed the British seaside during the 1920s and 30s.

BALTIC's exhibitions never fail to recount a story, whether it is personal or political Martha Hill is an adopted Geordie whose recent successes include her climbing her way onto 6 Music’s A-List with her new single ‘Grilled Cheese’.

True to form, the song is a sunny, alt-pop banger concerned with a continuing pursuit of someone who is, frankly, quite sick of you- relatable, eh?

In spite of this, Hill’s optimism shines through, teasing us with what’s to come with her second EP Summer Up North which will be released before the year is out.

Next, Brooke Bentham is no stranger to the Newcastle stage, having busked and graced openmic nights from a young age. 2020 has reduced most of us to a sort of stasis, but the opposite is true for Bentham: so far she has released two albums and an EP. With music that is reminiscent of The War on Drugs and vocals that sit somewhere between Angel Olson and Lana Del Rey, Brooke’s songs are atmospheric, moody and all-encompassing. (Side note: her cover of Yo La Tengo’s ‘Nowhere Near’ is DIVINE.) As gigs and performances slowly start back up again it is paramount that we continue to support emerging artists as they navigate through extremely uncertain times. Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending smaller gigs at our amazing grassroots venues. I promise you will not be disappointed by the standard.

Image: IMDb

The BALTIC If you like modern art, you’re in for a treat with this one! Located on the south bank of the River Tyne, alongside the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, stands the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. The centre hosts a wide variety of changing exhibitions, celebrating the talent of many contemporary artists, in its sleek and spacious viewing rooms. BALTIC is currently featuring Imran

The gallery itself is full of character with many of the original facets still intact Perretta’s film ‘The Destructors’, and work from Columbian artist, Abel Rodríguez. Priding itself on the diversity and creative freedom of all its featured artists, BALTIC’s exhibitions never fail to recount a story, whether it is personal or political.

The Biscuit Factory The Biscuit Factory is an independent art gallery located in a former (you guessed it) biscuit factory in Ouseburn, and sees work from both emerging and mid-career local and national artists. The gallery itself is full of character with many of the original facets of the building such as the beams and brickwork still intact, and mixed with the contemporary art displayed, this gives the gallery the perfect juxtaposition between new and old.

Currently, the gallery features the work of over 250 independent artists as well as the annual Contemporary Young Artist Award, featuring the work of 45 emerging artists.

The Hatton Gallery Last but definitely not least is Newcastle University’s own, Hatton Gallery, whose collection includes over 3,000 works from the 14th – 20th centuries, which range in medium from paintings and drawings to sculptures and textiles. The gallery is not currently open to visitors until further notice but from 26 September 2020 – 23 January 2021 the gallery is set to exhibit work by Linder Sterling. The gallery also works closely with Newcastle University’s own art students to exhibit their work on an annual basis and situated in the Fine Art Building on campus, there is absolutely no excuse not to give the Hatton Gallery a visit.

Cinematic Harriet Metcalfe

L

Film sub-editor

ook, I get it! Why would you spend more money than an Amazon Prime student subscription to only go and see one film? But I’m here to convince you that the occasional cinema trip is definitely worth it, because Newcastle has some of the absolute best. So, grab a coat and leave the dreary world of halls behind – we’re going to toon.

1. Cineworld Okay so you’ve almost definitely heard of Cineworld. But honestly? It’s just better here.

Located in the Gate, you’ve also got a Spoons, arcade, Nandos, Pizza Hut and an escape room to enjoy before or after your cinema-going – so it’s easy enough to make a day out of it.

Cineworld also has a variety of screens; so from 4DX to SuperScreen, your trip will be anything but boring. With student prices starting at £6.75 and COVID secure measures in place, it’s not a bad price to kill a weekend.

The BALTIC Flour Mill, Image: Geograph

Monday 28 September 2020

Culture

re Guide to Newcastle

11

Which TV character is your halls of res?

Alex Walker

O

ne of the great things a b o u t Newcastle is the fact that all our different halls have so much personality. They feel different, and if I were sentimental, I’d even say they have souls. I could use my platform to make some profound observation about human nature, our inherent kindness and the glorious beauty we can find in minutia, but instead, the Courier editors have told me to work out which characters from television they’d be in real life. And people say news media is in decline…

Castle Leazes Frank Gallagher, Shameless (UK)

Image: IMDb

Leazes is just like dear old Frank, there’s some real good in it. Unfortunately, the glory days are long gone, and what’s left is ugly, and grim. Just as Frank is in desperate need of a good wash and a new

coat, Leazes is in desperate need of a proper clean, and a new coat of paint. However, this wouldn’t fix either of them. There’s no solutionnd the same fate marches ever faster towards them both of them: an unmourned death, and an unremarkable demolition.

The residents of Leazes share Frank's undeserved cocky pride and love for their home

But maybe I’m being too harsh. Leazes and Frank share a strange, punk-rock spirit, and a foulness that is intoxicating and strangely attractive in its own way. The residents of Leazes share Frank’s undeserved cocky pride, and intense love for their, frankly, terrible home (along with his perpetually inebriated state). The Chatsworth Estate will be a much better place without Frank, and Newcastle will be a much better place without Leazes; however, when that day comes, the world will be a darker place. A better place, but darker all the same.

Park View Rick Sanchez, Rick and Morty Park View is definitely the best accommodation,

c gems of Newcastle 2. Everyman It's a bit more cash for a more unique experience Another chain here, but Everyman cinemas are few and far between compared to the world of Cine. Focusing less on the quantity of newest releases, and more on the quality of the films themselves, Everyman is the place to go if you want choice… as I’m scanning through their programme to write this, I’ve spotted a screening of 2019’s White Riot documentary, about the “Rock Against Racism” group prompted by Eric Clapton in 1976, a screening of 1996’s Romeo + Juliet that seems to include pizza, and 2017’s Murder on the Orient Express being put back into the cinema just in time for Death on the Nile.

Off-peak student tickets start at £10.80, but I reckon it’s just a bit more cash for a more unique experience, and the chance to see some films that the ‘big’ cinema chains might not show.

3. Tyneside Cinema A student staple, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone in the city that doesn’t know about Tyneside. It’s membership scheme for young people knocks the ticket price right down to £4.50 for most of its screenings – a handy thing for any cinema regular. Tyneside have been in the media during lockdown, so we’d encourage you to research the situation before going, but I certainly can’t deny or forget the good times I’ve personally had there.

4. Star and Shadow Cinema Bit of a walk from the toon here, but handy for anyone staying in the Shield or Portland Green Student Village, is the Star and Shadow cinema.

With the majority of its events taking place online now, it’s worth taking a look at the website to get a feel for what’s going on. Full of hidden gems and unique screenings, fingers crossed it won’t be long before we can head back there in person.

Image: Freepik

nobody is denying that, just like Rick is definitely the cleverest person in existence. Park View is the future as well, its design is simply superior to all the others. Double beds, en-suites, communal spaces, convenient for uni; it's superior just like Rick.

But you know what, they’re both empty on the inside. There’s no honesty, no kindness, no hope. Just the same soulless, nihilist, meaningless uniformity that will one day cover the world. You might be the best, the summit of the mountain. But it’s pretty lonely at the top isn’t it?

Marris House River Song, Doctor Who Genuinely can’t say a bad word about either River Song or Marris House. River’s a beautiful older lady, and Marris is a wonderful set of flats (both have had a fair bit of work done too, Marris’ £4 million refurbishment didn’t go to waste). Marris has double beds, which you know River would approve of (wink wink nudge nudge). They’re both just genuinely cool, and completely impossible to dislike. If I could turn back time like River can, I’d choose Marris.

The View The dude from Ozark or something...

two people who live there, and they’re very nice, but the place might as well be in Manchester. It exists in a world totally apart from the rest of the uni.

It’s totally forgettable. Also, I’m pretty sure Ozark is about business or something, and The View is near the business school, I think? Oh wait… is Ozark about the Mafia?

Windsor Terrace David Brent, The Office (UK) Both David Brent and Windsor Terrace think they’re different. The residents seem to think it’s so cool, and that everyone loves it. Well you know what, it’s not, and we don’t. Yeah, it’s nearer to town, but that just means a longer walk from everyone else. It might be in Jesmond, but only just. And it might be closest to the Robbo, but the rooms are tiny, the single beds are uncomfortable, and the bathrooms are bare.

I’d like to also add, if you think Brent’s song ‘Don’t make fun of the Disableds’ was bad, you should see the wheelchair access at Windsor. Just like Brent, the only thing remotely special about Windsor Terrace is that it is clearly sub-par. And literally everyone knows that except the residents, who for some reason, think it’s great.

I’ve never seen Ozark, but I’m sure the people who have seen it like it, just as I’m sure The View is lovely... but it seems totally irrelevant. I’ve met about

Best local gaming hotspots Joseph Caddick

N

ewcastle has somewhere for everyone, and there’s a nice variety of places around the city that cater to different types of gamers. Here’s a quick list of some cool areas worth checking out.

YuMe World

For anyone who loved arcade games growing up like me, this is a great place to spend a few hours. There’s a nice variety of games, including some ‘favourites’ like the dreaded claw machine. There’s also some VR games too, so it’s a perfect mix of more traditional and modern arcade experiences. It’s located in The Gate, so right in the centre of city. They have a student night discount on Wednesdays and a date night offer on Thursdays, which is great for those of us on a budget.

That Retro Game Shop Grainger Market has a few hidden gems, but for gamers this little shop is a treasure trove. There’s a wide variety of old games dating back to even the NES, so if you’re looking to get your hands on a nostalgic game this is the perfect place. They even sell old consoles, so if you want to take a trip down memory lane and buy a PS1 they’ve got you covered.

Meeple Perk

Board game nights are a staple of many student flats, and Meeple Perk is a café where you can meet up with friends to play some classic friendship enders like Monopoly and Scrabble. There’s a whole host of other games as well, with their collection going well into the hundreds. They also serve food too, which is always a plus. Like the other places on this list it’s located in the city centre, just a couple of minutes away from The Gate.

It goes without saying that the Ctrl Pad big chain stores like GAME and CeX are in Newcastle too, so if Also in The Gate, this gaming you’re planning on buying games lounge gives you access to – new or old – there’s plenty of lots of different consoles from options. If you’re looking to buy the past few generations (even some gaming merch, GAME has the Dreamcast), with a decent some, but there’s also Forbidden Planet. selection of games for each Image: Freepik Newcastle is such a big city with so much to one. Newer releases and PC games are also available. There’s regular challenges and see and do, and when it comes to gaming hotspots tournaments with cash prizes for the winners if these are some of the more popular ones. Best you’re into the competitive side of gaming. Party of all, they’re all only a few minutes away from packages are available too, though options are campus so they’re easily accessible to everyone. limited now due to COVID.

Monday 28 September 2020

12

Culture

Streaming services ultimate guide for students Owen Herman

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hether you’re a casual film watcher or a series binger, having access to a quality streaming service is a great way to keep yourself entertained in between essays and lectures. With plenty of options to choose from, its important to find the best deal for you. Here’s a breakdown of the leading streaming services available in the UK:

NETFLIX Probably the best known and most popular streaming service out there, Netflix is the streaming service that started it all. The platform boasts around 32,600 hours of content housed in a slick, easy to use service available to watch over multiple devices. It’s surprising to note that, despite its popularity, Netflix is actually one of the more expensive streaming services available to UK residents.

Its standard package, which includes HD streaming and the ability to be able to watch on two screens at once, is £8.99 a month. Netflix does offer a cheaper option; its basic package is £5.99 a month, but doesn’t include HD content.

Its premium service, at £11.99 a month, adds the ability to stream in ultra HD and watch on up to four screens at once. One of the main appeals of Netflix is its original content, a lot of which are already household names, such as Stranger Things and Better Call Saul. Recently, Netflix has upped its game in the film world, producing modern greats like The Irishman (2019), 13th (2016) and Uncut Gems (2019).

With such a huge amount of content it’s hard to run out of things to watch, and an effective recommendation system means there’s always something to see. That being said, there are some big gaps, particularly when it comes to classic films, and there is an arguable lack of quality once you l o o k deep into its catalogue, meaning you may end up just

binging Gavin and Stacey yet again.

Best value:: Standard – £8.99/month Verdict: You know it, and you probably already have it (or are using someone else’s). A reliable and often great place to go to find something to watch, even if it is pricey.

AMAZON PRIME VIDEO As Amazon continued to broaden its already considerable reach, it created Amazon Prime Video, the streaming offshoot of its Prime service.

It is arguably Netflix’s main rival, boasting around 22,600 hours of content. Similar to Netflix, it includes both original Amazon produced content such as The Boys, All or Nothing and the Grand Tour, and licensed films and TV like The Office, The Walking Dead and Knives Out (2019).

Unfortunately, many of the more recently released films and series are still only available via renting or buying (usually £4.49 for a film and £16.99 for a series) so if you want to watch big names such as Parasite, Chernobyl, or Succession then you’ll have to fork out extra. The subscription itself is £7.99 a month, but there is a great student rate at £3.99. The big selling point of this is that an Amazon Prime subscription includes all of Prime’s services, from next day delivery to Prime Music.

You will also have the chance to buy additional streaming channels, such as BFI Player or Shudder, and get all of your content in one place.

On top of all this, as well as film and TV, Amazon have recently acquired the rights to show Premier League games, setting it apart from Netflix. The only real frustration of Prime Video is its rather clunky and annoying menus, which are far less satisfying than Netflix’s.

Best value: Student – £3.99/month Verdict: While the total film and TV content isn’t quite on the same level as Netflix, the huge amount of Prime bonuses you get for the cheap student rate is a fantastic offer.

BFI Player For film lovers, the British Film Institute has its very own streaming service. To go alongside its free archive and rentals, there is a subscription service for £4.99 a month (which helps support the British film industry during these difficult times).

This gives you access to some cinema’s greatest classics, from Bicycle Thieves (1948) and 8 ½ (1963) to Assault on Precinct 13 (1976) and Ringu (1998). As of September 2020 the subscription service offers 636 films, in addition to the 1942 available to rent and the archive of 11227 films, including a myriad of hidden gems from Britain’s early foray into filmmaking like Comic Faces from 1897.

BFI Player also features specially curated playlists such as Indie Japan and Black Stories, so you can explore every corner of cinema.

As a bonus, BFI Player films often include an introduction from British film critic Mark Kermode, so you can gain insight from one of the best in the business.

(it also offers MUBI GO for £14.99 which includes a weekly cinema ticket), however it adds a host of extras to the streaming experience. The Notebook section is packed with extra features like interviews and articles, and the Feed is MUBI’s very own social media section that allows film lovers to come together and discuss their favourites. The library of films is similar in style to BFI Player, featuring classics like Apocalypse Now (1979) and I Vitelloni (1953), as well as contemporary greats like Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019) and Moonlight (2016).

Unfortunately, many of MUBI’s films are only available for 30 days due to licensing issues, but it is very much a quality over quantity approach, with there being a handpicked film of the day every day.

Created by cinephiles for cinephiles Best value: Student – £5.99/month Verdict: A lack of quantity is a shame, but with the amount of extras to explore it is still a great alternative to BFI Player.

DISNEY + Packed with nostalgia, and full of family friendly entertainment, Disney+ features (almost) all Disney content available, including Disney Channel, Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, Disney Animation and even National Geographic. The subscription is £5.99 a month and you very much know what you get with it. The highlights are as big as they come with Avengers: Endgame (2019), Mulan (1998), The Mandalorian, The Simpsons and many more, from childhood classics to the latest Disney blockbuster. Make sure you also check out some of the lesser known titles though, such as documentaries Free Solo (2018) and Empire of Dreams (2004), and 90s superhero flick The Rocketeer (1991). It is worth noting for MCU completionists that Tom Holland’s Spider-Man films are missing due to Sony holding the licensing rights. Disney+’s biggest strength is also its biggest weakness; it has all of your favourite Disney content in one place, but the bulk of its content is made up of film and TV that, if you are a Disney fan, you are likely to have already seen.

Best value: Standard – £5.99/month Verdict: The content is limited, but if you’re a Disney fan then you’ll more than likely find it to be worth the price.

SHUDDER At the other end of the spectrum is Shudder, a horror and gore filled streaming service for fans of scary movies. For £4.99 a month it offers classic and original content, including brand new series such as Wolf Creek. It’s packed full of hidden gems including some of the formerly banned Video Nasties. There are also a load of cult classics as well as horror-comedies like Prevenge (2016) and Black Sheep (2006). Shudder’s better known titles are equally great, with highlights being It Follows (2014), Halloween (1978), Let the Right One In (2008) and Oldboy (2003).

Best value: Standard – £4.99/month

Best value:: Standard – £4.99/month

Verdict: Brilliant for horror fans, but little else there for others.

Verdict: No TV and far fewer titles than a lot of other services, but it is an absolute must for film fans.

Apple tv +

MUBI

Like Amazon and Disney, Apple have recently ventured into streaming with Apple TV+ at £4.99 a month. However, unlike those other services, Apple TV exclusively features original Apple content, which at the moment isn’t all that impressive. The service is showing promise with Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, Defending Jacob, and Sofia Coppola’s On the Rocks (2020) but it

Much like BFI Player, MUBI is a film only service dedicated to film lovers. It’s slightly pricier with its subscription being £5.99 a month for students, and £9.99 standard

has by far the least amount of content compared to any other service on this list. There is plenty more content on the way though, so it might be one to watch.

Best value: Standard - £4.99/month Verdict: Probably not worth it right now, but could soon be filled with must-watch content.

Britbox Created in a joint venture between the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, BritBox offers the largest amount of British box sets of any streaming service. It costs £5.99 a month to access content such as Doctor Who, Peep Show, and Alan Partridge. It even offers some unique classics such as the Carry On films. Completely opposite to Apple TV+, BritBox only has previously broadcast shows. However, with Spitting Image, the platform is getting its very own original to help boost its appeal. Although it does sound like a combination of already available (and free) On Demand services offered by these channels, BritBox does have the added bonus of no ads.

Best value: Standard – £5.99 Verdict: BritBox seems behind the times, as right now there is still a lot of content crossover with both On Demand and paid streaming services, both of which also offer brand new original content.

now tv Unlike the other services on this list, Now TV operates by selling monthly ‘passes’, meaning you pay to access for one month only, giving you more flexibility. Uniquely, Now TV allows you to access live TV as well as a library of box sets and movies, depending on the pass.. It offers four differently priced packages: Kids (£3.99), Hayu (£4.99), Sky Sports (£5.99), Entertainment (£8.99), and Sky Movies (£11.99). The main draw is that it allows you to access subscription TV, allowing you to catch the latest shows like Lovecraft County, movies like Le Mans 66, or the Premier League on Sky Sports. The big catch is that, by default, the packages are standard definition. In order to get HD you have to purchase the Now TV boost for an extra £3 per month. The sports package is a great selling point compared to the other streaming services, but when it comes to TV and movies, the other services offer similar quality at a much more affordable price.

Best value: Sky Sports – £5.99 Verdict: Offers some great content, but the cost is hard to justify.

FINAL VERDICT There’s plenty to choose from in the current era of streaming services. If you’re a Disney nut or horror fanatic, then the choice for you is simple.

For the rest, Netflix is always a good go-to, but the best value is without doubt Amazon Prime Video, especially considering the added bonuses that a Prime membership gets you. Adding on a BFI or MUBI subscription to this still only totals the same as a sole Netflix account, and will give you access to a fantastic catalogue of classic films. Don’t knock free On Demand services either, BBC iPlayer has a host of great films, and UKTV Play offers hours of comedy box sets. Just whatever option you go for, keep it legal, for now more than ever, the men and women working tirelessly to provide you with exceptional content deserve a helping hand.

Illustration: @paper_lions on Instagram

Monday 28 September 2020

Culture

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Newcastle hosts the UK's first live music in five months w

In coversation with Heida Curtis about her experience at socially distanced festivals

Finlay Holden Music sub-editor

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nless you’ve been living under a rock, you will be aware that despite social distancing

requirements being an obvious issue, live music has made a big return in the form of outdoor gigs at Gosforth Park, making the North East a world leader in this scene. Kicked off by our own Sam Fender, a full slate of headliners have graced the stage since; but the first person to walk out to a socially-distanced crowd of thousands was a future star from North Shields, Heidi Curtis, who spoke with us about her experience.

The North East is a world leader in the scene of outdoor gigs How did you get involved with the Virgin Money Unity Arena?

How did that even happen? It was still all quite under wraps, nobody really knew what was happening, then suddenly the posters were up and I quickly had to get the band back together to start rehearsing again. I had no idea it’d be so big though before I started doing some research and I was like Jesus, that’s a lot of people!

This is the biggest crowd you’ve played to?

Yeah! It was 2,500 but in a 40,000 capped venue which was strange but I can’t even explain, it is absolutely humongous, the biggest stage I’ve been on by far. I was super nervous at first but there’s

Which show matches your degree?

Gemma Powell

T

V and Netflix binging are popular pastimes for university students distracting them from their actual degrees. Here, we will be looking at which TV shows represent the different degrees that students should really be studying!

Politics The Thick of It Cynical, loud and opinionated the average politics student is the epitome of Malcom Tucker.

Able to squeeze nearly any idea into their essays and fabricate reasons to justify it, they are the kings and queens of spin. Some would say aggressive, I say fiery and passionate, politics students are under the constant pressure of comprehending this complex everchanging world.

Computer Science IT Crowd A degree filled with socially awkward and sometimes lazy people.

Although, like Roy and Moss, computer science students are always loveable and absolutely hilarious (if for the wrong reasons). A degree that can be summed up with “Have you tried turning it off and on again?”

English Literature – Sherlock The masters of deduction in their essays or perhaps just filled with needlessly complex writing, English Literature is a mysterious and sharp subject and for those of us outside the subject, a conversation with an English Lit student will leave you as baffled as John Watson.

Modern Languages The Midnight Gospel Surreal, unable to comprehend and filled full of surprises – The Midnight Gospel is the perfect show to represent Modern Languages.

A forgotten show and a degree forgotten off lists, both require a certain level of multitasking.

Although, they make you question your own eyes and ears at times, you somehow still enjoy them.

Images: IMDb

w

just so much air to breathe, you’ve got so much space that you calm down quickly.

How long was your set?

It was half an hour on the dot. I had it longer but had to cut a couple of songs because I didn’t wanna take the mick and have them have to drag me off haha.

What would you say to those who are critical of the whole set-up?

Overall, I think people have to participate with the intention of treating is as an evening experience.

You can see your favourite artist, be it up close or on the screens, so think of it as a gig, yeah, but you’re also having some drinks and hanging out. For the first time for a while, I saw people not just on their phones but actually enjoying the whole gig environment, just enjoying sharing it with their friends. You’ve been in the house for 5 months, how can you complain about an outdoor gig?

As the event organiser and head of SSD Steve Davis admits, this is hopefully not the future of gigs; as he said on the day, “we want to get back to the moshpits soon like everyone else, but I do think over the short term, this may be a good alternative – if nothing else can happen, at least there’s hope for live music.”

Any final comments, Heidi?

Stay safe and wear a mask!

Image: @BBCNews, Instagram

Worst TV roommate: Paris Geller Harriet Metcalfe Film sub-editor

S

poilers for Gilmore Girls! Don’t get me wrong, Gilmore Girls is one of my absolute favourite shows. I have a regular rewatch about this time every year, and around the second year, I lost all sympathy for Paris Geller- despite being Rory’s roommate.

She doesn't give a second thought as to how awkward that might be for Rory Oh, where to begin. She throws a party that Rory really doesn’t want and looks incredibly un-enjoyable (Paris is definitely the type of person to be obsessing over everyone using a coaster for their drinks), nevermind dating Rory’s lecturer, despite him being twice, maybe three times their age?

‘You’re in college, Paris!’ I

Where does she keep all of her arts and crafts 'creations'? scream at my laptop, ‘almost everyone there is your own age except him!’ She doesn’t seem to give a second thought as to how awkward that might be for Rory in seminars, let alone at the dinner table with her grandfather, since he and the professor are friends.

And the crafts table…I wouldn’t call myself a clean freak, but I like things tidy- I don’t want to imagine the regular mess from that. Also, where does she keep all her arts and crafts ‘creations’?

I don’t remember seeing many pasta frames or paper-chain necklaces around their dorm room at all?

All I can say is, thank God we don’t have to share rooms.

I like to be able to work in my own room, not hear a roommate arguing to her boyfriend on the phone half the time, *coughs* Paris.

Images: IMDb

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Monday 28 September 2020

Science 5 steps to staying safe & green on campus Lily Holbrook

I

— Science sub-editor

t goes without saying that this year is going to be very different for us students returning to university.

With concerns among the general population that students will be responsible for unprecedented spikes in COVID-19 as we move towards the winter months, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The same is true for the fate of the environment.

Pre-pandemic, Newcastle University ranked highly on the People and Planet league table, placing 12th out of 154 universities. In a statement on the website, the university is aware of its progress while recognising the need to keep pushing forward: “We are proud of the progress we have made, over many years of work, in improving sustainability at Newcastle University.

However, we know we need to go further.”

Newcastle ranked 12th out of 154 on the People & Planet league tables With growing numbers of activists among younger demographics, universities are places where environmentalism thrives. But have plans to launch new environmental initiatives changed since COVID-19 took the spotlight?

Risking a drastic return to the throwaway culture we were trying so hard to avoid, what should students

keep in mind to stay safe & green when they return to campus?

Here are some top tips for students (backed by science) who want to do their bit for the planet and keep safe.

90%

how much mask wearing reduces transmission

1. Get a reusable mask This one may sound obvious, but it’s worth mentioning for the amount of waste that disposable blue masks create. Despite a misconception that the medical blue masks are made from paper, they are in fact plastic. Louise Edge, senior anti-plastics advocate at Greenpeace says if everyone in the UK wore a disposable mask each day for a year, a huge “66,000 tonnes of additional plastic waste could be produced.” That’s equivalent to more than 100x the weight of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer Statue. In a collaboration between the University of Edinburgh and HeriotWatt University, evidence suggests that wearing an effective mask can reduce the risk of airborne virus transmission by up to 90%. Support small businesses, buy one from a friend, or if you can, use an unwanted piece of clothing make one yourself.

Top tip: If disposable masks are your only option, cut off the strings before you throw them away to reduce the risk of entangling wildlife.

2. Use a hand sanitiser Upon return to campus, every student will be issued with a ‘safety pack’,

consisting of hand sanitiser, a reusable mask and personal thermometer. To reduce plastic waste and save yourself buying multiple bottles, fill-up stations will be available on campus. Research suggests that hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol content is most effective at reducing germ growth, helping to prevent the spread of viruses like corona. Although important, sanitiser is not a replacement for washing your hands well at home, so make sure you have your 20 second hand-washing ritual aced to perfection.

events going on to get involved with.

Minimising person to person contact is the best way we know at present to contain the virus, so take a look at what you can do from the comfort of home.

3. Walk rather than car share Used to driving into uni?

If you live within walking distance but have always given in to the wheels, ditch the car ride with friends and take the opportunity to start walking. The benefits of cardiovascular exercise are well-documented, so even if walking isn’t for you, green activities like cycling are great alternatives to using the car.

Top tip: ‘Recyke-y-bike’ in Byker offers affordable second hand bikes if you’re searching for inspiration in the North East.

4. Find out about virtual events

5. Consume less From fast fashion to food, we live in a world where there is a lot to be tempted by. Despite no evidence to suggest that receiving packaged parcels and takeaway deliveries are a threat to human health from a virus perspective, the health of the environment is a different story. With shocking research by Green Story suggesting that 20% of online returns end up in landfill, it’s about time we curbed our clothes craving. Share styles with the people in your bubble, cook food from scratch together and depend less on the companies that draw you in and pollute the planet.

It is true that the environment and COVID-19 are not as far removed as they may first appear, with one providing an opportunity to re-evaluate our attitude towards the other.

Despite talks of fresh starts and an environmental focus, it’s not surprising that human interest will always top the list of priorities. But the sooner we see the planet’s health intertwined with our own, the closer we will come to a sustainable future.

Students are likely to face a lot of criticism in the coming months, so let’s do what we can to prove, at this pivotal moment, that change is possible.

ninasedcik on Instagram

Whether it’s Extinction Rebellion, global school strikes for climate or a multitude of petitions, there’s lots of virtual

Beyond the lab-bench in the COVID-19 era Tips for science students without access to in-person labs

Grace Piercy

A

h, Autumn. The traditional rush to Waterstones for last minute pens, pencils and a planner you promise you’ll use this year, accompanied by snaking queues and bent backs coming out of Blackwells after emptying a third of your student loan on textbooks. We loathe and love this annual ritual. Let’s see how Covid-19 is going to disrupt this.

There is a balancing act between the "new normal" and safety

Wikimedia commons

Dear reader, I have a feeling things are going to be a little different this year.

Especially for science students with their second home (the lab) being out of reach. What are we to do? There is

a balancing act between returning to “The New Normal” and maintaining the safety of the patrons of the University and the public.

The good news is that you’re still a scientist and a scholar, regardless of whether you’re sitting at a lab bench or in bed on your laptop. In the golden age of the internet, information is rife so make the most of it! The university library has overhauled its services to remain safe and in accordance to Covid-19 guidelines. If you’re feeling conscientious you can find your reading lists on your course page to get ahead (or caught up!) on the literature required for your course; you can then request these books to loan and pick up safely from the Philip Robinson Library.

Returns are also contactless with the use of the drop off chute. Alternatively, the library can give you access to eBooks if that’s more your style. If you can’t find any book or journal you’re after – just contact them! They’re a friendly bunch and are more than happy to help with a variety of things such as maths, English and editing too.

If you’re a doodle in textbooks kind of person and would prefer to own your books, Depop, eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Blackwells (books with the green stickers!) are fantastic

Will we have to wear lab coats on our Zoom lectures? places to get second hand or nearly new textbooks at an often reduced price.

However, all books and no labs makes STEM students sad. Luckily, whatever discipline you’re in, there’s more than likely an app for it! Chemists can simulate lab experiments with reagents with the Chemist virtual lab app. Physicists can also simulate their experiments with the Physics Studio app. Lab4U is an app that claims to be a ‘lab in your pocket’ with smartphone technology allowing users to access a virtual colorimeter to determine the concentration of a solution! These are only a few examples, but there’s a myriad to discover.

So how does this look for the immediate future? Will we have to wear lab coats on our zoom lectures? Will our experiments be socially distanced?

Will there be cameras on hoists to film experiments? Whatever the future brings, I trust us to adapt with it and make the most of the journey. It’ll be quite a story to tell!

Monday 28 September 2020

16

Puzzles

Monday 28 September 2020

Puzzles

17

Monday 28 September 2020

Students' Union

MEET YOUR 2020/2021 SABBATICAL OFFICERS

18

Dorothy Chirwa

Benthe Tanghe

president.union@newcastle.ac.uk

au.union@newcastle.ac.uk

President

H

i everyone, I’m Dorothy and I’m your president! I am a history graduate trying to fight the stereotype that we all become teachers. As President I work for students to represent your interests and needs to the university.

If someone had told me this time last year that I was going to start a job that’s exclusively being done on zoom, during a global pandemic that creates the biggest A Level fiasco as well a cyber incident, I probably would have laughed at them. Starting a job in the middle of the most unprecedented times has definitely been interesting however representing the student voice has never been more important than now and I wanted to let you guys know exactly what I’ve been doing since I started in June.

A lot of my job recently has been working on how to provide a good student experience that maximises safety. University obviously looks different this year but we do have great events going on that are socially distanced and Boris approved.

Away from Covid (which is inescapable but I try) I’ve been working on quite of lot of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion related projects. I’ve been working on a BAME Welcome Pack that has a lot of content that introduces BAME students to the city with where to find food or hair products and others that you will need. In addition to that I’ve been doing a lot of work to plan Black History Month that kicks off in October. It’s been odd planning a campaign to go online but I’m hoping that you enjoy the content that we’ve got planned.

I’m hoping that this year is the best it can be for you and please don’t hesitate to get in touch with you if you need anything!

You can contact me at my email address or stay updated on my NUSU blog or on my social media pages, @NUSUPresident

Athletic Union Officer

H

ello, I'm Benthe. I'm originally from the Netherlands and arrived in Newcastle for the first time as an Erasmus+ exchange student planning to only stay for one semester - this didn't happen of course!

In my first week here, I walked up to the Activities floor of the Students Union, to buy tickets for a trip with my friends. I spotted an old calendar that said elections, and as a Politics student I was curious and asked what it was for. That’s how I found out for the first time what Sabbatical Officers are and why there is a Students Union, something we don’t have in the Netherlands. During my exchange, I also joined the University Women’s football team, which was one of the reasons I wanted to stay for another year. So I ended up staying for my Masters in International Relations. Turned out that after two years, I still didn’t have enough of Newcastle, as I ran for Athletic Union Officer.

As Athletic Union Officer, I oversee our 65 sport clubs and am here to ensure that the voices and opinions of those participating in sport are heard and represented.

Starting this job has been quite challenging during a global pandemic and forced us to rethink everything we do. It has also increased the scope of meetings I am in. I am not just working on sport, but as sabbatical officer am also a representative in other university meetings, for example regarding the community and for international students in which I can bring my own experience. What we can and can’t do in sport is affected by the pandemic, and something that changes on daily basis.

However, I still stand with my manifesto point from the elections and am hoping to make Team Newcastle more inclusive, accessible and united.

For example, over the summer I have been working on ensuring that we expand our kit with better options for for non-male gendered students. Another key point in my manifesto was that I want to create more awareness for mental health, which I think will be an even more important subject this year with all that is going on. This year is challenging for everyone, but I am sure we will get through it together and make the most of it.

Ella Williams

Editor of the Courier editor.union@newcastle.ac.uk

M

y name is Ella and I am your Editor of the Courier (the lovely newspaper you are reading) this year!

I'm from London originally, but came up to the Toon to study English Literature and Linguistics. At the recommendation of a friend, I got involved with The Courier from early on into my time at University and I'm so glad I did.

I found a welcoming, like-minded bunch and it really made my first year. In my second year, I went onto to become a Lifestyle sub-editor and then Head of Culture alongside Charlotte.

As Editor, I oversee the three branches of student media here at Newcastle: they are Newcastle Student Radio (NSR), Newcastle TV (NUTV) and this paper. NSR and NUTV each have their own station managers (who you can read more from in the Media section of this issue, p 20-21). The Courier itself is written entirely by and for students, and is managed by a team of students as well which I head up. A typical issue is 40 pages and is split up into 14 different sections including Culture, News, Comment, Sport, Science and Beauty- we try to include something for everyone!

Needless to say, my first few months as Editor have been a bit odd. Rather than delving into my manifesto points, I had to first work out how we were going to continue the print paper at all (something I was determined not to compromise on). I've been working on a few adjustments to make it easier in a socially distanced world, such as distributing the paper directly to student halls as well as around Campus and revamping the online presence of the Courier. I've also doubled up the puzzles section!

While it's been a bit of a wobbly few months, it's been dawning on me just how important student media is going to be this year. It's become more pressing than ever to have a reliable student publication to keep you all informed in such a fastchanging world. But also the Courier, and student media in general, has the potential to build such a strong sense of community between Newcastle students, remotely or not. I hope to help you feel welcome and heard as a student of this University, even if you are stuck in your flat on Zoom...

Monday 28 September 2020

Students' Union

Sian Dickie

Hannah Finney Activities Officer

activities.union@newcastle.ac.uk

E

yup, I'm Hannah and I'm your Activities Officer for this year. I oversee all societies, and work closely with the Give It A Go and Go Volunteer programmes to ensure students make the most of their time at uni.

I came to Newcastle in 2016 to do my undergraduate degree in History and Archaeology, and three years in Newcastle wasn't enough for me so I stayed for another year to do a masters in International Relations. It turned out four years in the Toon wasn't enough for me either so here I am as a sabb at the Students' Union, LOL. As you can imagine, it’s been a bit of a weird start to being a Sabbatical Officer. I didn’t imagine at all during election week that as a team we would be faced with a global pandemic and a cyber-attack within the first three months on the job!

These things have meant that I’ve had to put my manifesto aside for the moment. Instead, I’m focussing on how activities are going to be run this year. It’s been challenging and stressful, and I’ve become semi-dependant on caffeine, but I’ve really enjoyed the experience so far.

This year, due to everything that's going on, it's been difficult to focus on my manifesto. Instead, I've been trying to plan activities for the next year, working out what the government guidelines mean and how this affects societies. My main aim is to ensure that society officers still receive informative training and support on running a society during this weird year.

I think it's going to be a very difficult year, but I know that societies are hard at work to ensure that their members get the best experience possible, despite all the current obstacles. I've heard some of the great ideas that societies have had and I think everyone involved will have a fab day! You can read more about some of the amazing societies offered here at Newcastle on p. 22-23.

Meanwhilem if you have any questions for me about anything societies, please feel free to email me

Nadia Ahmed

Charlotte Boulton

welfare.union@newcastle.ac.uk

pg.union@newcastle.ac.uk

Education Officer

Welfare & Equality Officer

’m Sian and I’m your Education Officer. I’ve been at Newcastle University since 2016, but I am also from the city! For my undergraduate I studied Media, Communications and Cultural Studies and for my postgraduate I studied an MA in Sociology. It’s fair to say that the world has changed a little since writing my original manifesto, so here are some of my updated priorities for the year!

Firstly, I understand the importance of academic and wellbeing support, especially this year. Myself and the Postgraduate Officer have been working on improving the personal tutoring system over the summer and have wrote some new guidance for tutors. We’ve truly based this guidance on our own experiences, so really hope that it makes first years in particular, more reassured if they have any queries with regards to their education or mental health support.

I’ve started planning my first campaign of the year! S.O.S (Supporting Our Students) hopes to raise awareness of the academic representation system that we have here at NUSU. It also hopes to raise awareness of the academic services that may be useful to you. On your course you will have Course Representatives and School Representatives. Should you have any complaints, they are there to raise any academic concerns with myself and staff in the school or on your course. You can get in touch with your representatives via the Newcastle University app.

Myself and the Postgraduate Officer have been spoke to all of the Heads of School over the summer. I have been particularly interested in finding out their perspective on PEC forms. One of my main goals for this year is to expand the scope of circumstances for which, you can apply for an extension. This is something that I believe will make the student experience better in these uncertain times.

Finally, alongside Charlotte, Nadia and Dorothy, we hope to launch our Decolonise NCL campaign in November. This is something which is a main campaign priority here at NUSU, as we all believe in the importance of decolonising our education system. We really hope this to be student focused, so keep an eye out for any upcoming projects for Decolonise NCL!

i, I'm Nadia! I've just graduated with an English Literature degree. In both first and second year at Newcastle, I was part of the Northern Angels cheerleading team, which was incredibly fun and I met the best people doing it!

However, it also made me aware, that particular sports/extra-curricular activities aren't taken as seriously as others, particularly if participants are mainly women. This is part of what has driven my passion for representing women, people of colour, and the LGBTQ+ community on campus. I'm excited to use my role to enhance equality and wellbeing for students.

education.union@newcastle.ac.uk

I

19

H My Aims

1. Advocate for minority groups on campus 2. Raise awareness of inequality and discrimination 3. Celebrate the different cultures within our community 4. Empower students to embrace their differences 5. Increase the number of all-gender toilets around campus 6. Implement tangible strategies for change 7. Amplify the voices, perspectives, and ideas of minority students 8. Launch a campaign for body positivity & selfacceptance 9. Challenge and improve the university's current waiting list for Mental Health support I would love to promote collaboration between students and us sabbs this year so please do get in touch if you would like to get involved with campaigns over the year! I am really passionate about student involvement so please do not hesitate to ask me for anything by dropping me an email.

Postgraduate Officer

I

’m Charlotte and I’m this year’s Postgraduate Officer. I’ve just finished my MA Sociology after also studying BA Media, Communication and Cultural Studies at Newcastle, because apparently I’m incapable of leaving.

The Courier has been at the heart of my university experience; I’ve been a writer, Music Editor and a Culture Editor (alongside your lovely new Editor Ella!) so it’s really exciting to be featured in the paper. It’s made my time at Newcastle so much richer, interesting and fun, so I really recommend anybody reading this who is interested in getting involved in student media to just do it! Now my outpouring of love for the Courier is over, here’s a little about my role at NUSU. My time is mostly spent representing the academic interests of postgraduate taught and research students in uni meetings, working on plans to better support PG mental health and offer opportunities to socialise and build a community.

Some of my plans look a little different now due to COVID restrictions, so I’ve had to adapt and focus on creating a positive virtual community instead.

My Official Newcastle Postgraduates Discussion Group is already over 200 members strong (Hint: if you’re a postgrad, join it!) I’ve been putting together a programme of events for postgraduates, including virtual coffee mornings where postgraduates can pick up free goodie bags (with tea, coffee and biscuits) from me to add something extra. I know socialising is going to be different this year, especially for PGTs on one-year courses, but we have loads of opportunities on offer to get involved and become part of the postgraduate community.

Over the summer I’ve been working a lot with Sian to represent students in university education meetings, fighting for representation on decisionmaking committees to review timetabling, raising staff awareness of the importance of listening to the student voice for feedback and creating an expectations document for personal tutors to ensure all students are being supported. It’s been a tough start with a lot of new changes to get used to, so keep up to date with my Officer Blog on the NUSU website where I regularly post updates.

This semester I'll be planning a PG mental health campaign launching in January, bringing together support and resources to support postgraduates wellbeing – watch this space.

Monday 28 September 2020

20

Media

What student media has meant to students Our editors and station managers recount their experiences with student media Dominic Lee

— Station manager and music sub-editor

C

oming into my third and (possibly) final year at university I’ve been thinking a lot about the time that I’ve spent with The Courier and NSR (Newcastle Student Radio). It’s hard for me to sum up what student media means to me in a catchy one-liner or even a paragraph. It just isn’t that simple.

Student media has undoubtedly been the best thing I’ve been involved with during my time at university and it’s given me so many memories that I hold dear to me. Being a part of The Courier and NSR has given me most of my closest friendships and I’ve made so many memories on the second floor of the SU that I’d almost call it my second home.

I’ll start off by talking about the wonderful publication that you’re reading right now. I’ve been one of the music sub-editors since the beginning of my second semester of first year, which I suppose makes me a bit of a Courier veteran. Being an editor for The Courier has been an incredibly enriching and rewarding experience, giving me a chance to express my creativity through journalism and write about things I feel passionate about. The Courier office, while being a pretty cursed room at times thanks to many of its inhabitants, has been like a production line for treasured memories, with its friendly faces and hilarious quote board greeting me each time I enter. Helping to produce this incredible paper this week is a great privilege and will stay with me long after I leave university.

My journey with NSR has been just as eventful and memorable. I started out hosting my own show, Amplified, which I have presented for the last two years with my co-host, Jack. I will be the station manager for the upcoming year alongside my friend Emma. What springs out at me the most about my time at NSR is how truly unique the experiences I’ve had are as a part of the radio. Hosting your own radio show in itself is an experience you’ll only get whilst at university, but I’ve also had the chance to DJ at a silent disco

during RAG week and be a pundit at our very own Fight Night! Like with The Courier, I’ve shared many memorable moments with some lovely people in the studio and at events. I may be biased as station manager but NSR is one of the best things you can get involved with at university- and unlike a society we’re free to join so what do you have to lose?

Overall, student media has made my university experience so far and I can’t wait for another year of fun with The Courier and NSR! So, if you’re reading this now and it’s peaked your interest I couldn’t recommend it enough!

Image: Dominc Lee, NSR station manager

Julia McGee Russell

O

— Deputy Editor

ne of the first things I really liked about Newcastle when I was applying was the high quality of our student media.

Being involved in The Courier, NSR and NUTV has helped me build so many skills and allowed me to use tech that I would never have had access to otherwise. For example, I had never presented anything before coming to Newcastle, edited any newspaper articles, or filmed any events footage. Now, heading into my final year, I have done all of that and more.

How many students can say they've had their own

Everyone on the teams just do what they do because they love it radio show, filmed Fresher's week coverage, or had their designs and articles printed in a newspaper?

Student media showcases the talent that we have at Newcastle, and allows us to build skills necessary for creative work. With big cross-media events like the NUSU elections coverage and Fight Night, as well as the individual editors and presenters making weekly shows and articles, there's so much to get involved with.

However, it's not all about CV building. Everyone on the senior teams of NSR, The Courier, and NUTV also just do what they do because they enjoy it. There is a community within student media, one that is supportive and rewards hard work and creativity. Being able to share expertise and learn from the other people on the teams I've worked with has been one of my favourite things (alongside having a boogie to tunes I chose for my radio show).

Watching and supporting other people as they improve has been so rewarding. So is being able to open a spread of a newspaper and see my hard work there, in print. Working within student media is a great opportunity to network and meet other people who might work in media postgraduation, but it is also just a fun environment to be in. It's an environment where you can make friends, develop skills, and even make a silly Photoshop edits of another editor's face on a can of beans if you want to.

A bit more about the Courier A little more on your new favourite student paper and how you can get stuck in Ella Williams

T

— Editor, editor.union@ncl.ac.uk

he Courier is Newcastle University’s award-winning student newspaper written, edited and produced entirely by students. Obviously I am here to sing its praises.

The Courier originated in 1948 as King’s Courier and today exists as a 40-page paper with a new issue published every week of term time. It is is available to pick up for free at the distribution bins scattered throughout campus, such as outside the Students’ Union building, in the Robinson library, in subject common rooms and in most student halls.

The paper has fifteen different sections that cater to everyone’s interests, including but not limited to News, Comment, Sport, Lifestyle, Beauty, Culture, Science and a big juicy double-spread of puzzles to dip into each week.

We are run by a team of about fifty sub-editors

who spend hours collecting and editing articles each week and laying them up in our messy office in the Students’ Union. They edit the work of over 200 writers and contributors, who regularly produce content for both our website and print editions. The whole team is managed by one of the seven elected sabbatical officers at the University, which this year is myself- hello!

It is really easy to start contributing to the Courier. Anyone who is a student can write articles, take photos or produce artwork for the Courier with absolutely no experience necessary!

From analysing films and TV shows, political commentary, rigorous investigative journalism, interviewing well-known personalities or illustrating for articles, there is space for the voices of all students. Not only is it a lot of fun, but it’s a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded creative thinkers and build up invaluable experience in the world of journalism for all your future endeavours. And there is nothing like seeing your hard work in print!

To get involved, all you have to do is join the contributor groups on Facebook, where each of the section sub-editors pitches the articles to be written that week. Simply search for “The Courier [section name] writers 2020/21” on

Facebook and click join. We typically also hold a weekly writers meeting in the SU, providing the opportunity for contributors to speak directly to their sub-editors. Due to social distancing guidelines this will also be taken online this year- make sure follow our Courier socials to stay up to date about all the details.

More personally, I want to stress how utterly welcoming the team at this paper has been over my three years as a student.

WEBSITE

www.thecourieronline.com FACEBOOK

facebook.com/TheCourier Online TWITTER

@CourierOnline INSTAGRAM

@TheCourierOnline Many have discovered a love for an area they never imagined they would, befriended fellow writers, and the experience has shaped their futures. The most common qualm I hear is that students believe they "aren't good enough" or simply don't feel they have the experience to contribute to the paper, but student life is all about throwing yourself in at the deep end and grabbing these opportunities while they are there. I think we've established that I couldn't recommend it enough.

Monday 28 September 2020

Media

21

Film and broadcast with NUTV Station manager Miles Ogden gives the why and how of getting involved with NUTV

We aim to be a platform for as many students as possible, regardless of experience

Miles Ogden

N

— NUTV station manager

UTV is our fast-paced student television station here at Newcastle University. We produce a wide variety of both on-demand shows and live broadcasts through the academic year. The type of content NUTV covers varies from entertainment to student activities (such as society events to sporting fixtures), news and current affairs.

Founded in 2007 we are the youngest of the three branches of media here at NUSU, but over the years have grown and matured and now have an audience of thousands across Newcastle and elsewhere.

Some of our most popular shows of the last year were the everglorious Fight Night, the gripping NUSU election debates and our eyeopening Societies Spotlight. We are always on the lookout for ideas for new shows and loads of enthusiastic people who want to get involved.

Do you have an idea for something you have al-

ways wanted to film but never have the equipment, know-how, or a team of lovely people to make it happen? Have you ever wanted to get in front of camera or work behind the scenes, but never had the chance to? Well, then NUTV is the place for you. We aim to be a platform for as many students as possible, regardless of your prior experience, personal circumstances, or the course you study and like all sections of student media, we are completely free to join. We offer training sessions throughout the year and have loads of opportuni-

ties to get hands-on experience producing video content and using our broadcast-quality equipment. We also aim to bridge connections with industry, and if you are considering a job in television or the media, NUTV sets your CV apart from the rest and makes a great showreel!

This year due to the situation with coronavirus, we as a station are taking steps to mitigate the risk of production while still maintaining the same level of experience and quality as we always have.

Social distancing, PPE and sanitation have become daily aspects of all our lives, and we are committed to being responsible and safe in what we undertake for sake of our members and others. However, in light of this we are making changes such as more holding more online events over Zoom. On top of this, increasing demand for live broadcasting of inperson events really opens up opportunities into new ways we can produce content and engage with ever more students at the University. Getting in-

YOUTUBE

NUTV

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/Newcastle UniTV INSTAGRAM

@NewcastleUniTV volved with NUTV and student media is going to be as high-action, varied and fun as ever!

Whether you want to present in front of camera, direct and produce from behind the scenes, flex your editing muscles, or write and develop ideas come check out NUTV! We will be hosting an online welcome meeting to all new and returning members during the University induction period, the details of which can be found on our social media accounts. More information about NUTV is available on our page on the NUSU website, and our full back catalogue of shows is available on our YouTube channel.

Image: software in use, NUTV Facebook page

Image: Julia Mcgee Russell, Courier Deputy Editor.

Presenting for NUSU

Get experience on the radio with NSR NSR station manager Emma Linton outlines the best bits of the uni radio station Emma Linton

N

— NSR station manager

ewcastle Student Radio (NSR) is an award-winning radio station run by students, for students. NSR first hit the air waves all the way back in 1997 and has been providing the soundtrack to student life ever since, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Opportunities are endless, whether an aspiring DJ or just have a topic you love to talk about From presenters to producers, technology to marketing, NSR is run entirely by students of the university. Sitting in the heart of the Student’s Union, the studio offers aspiring students the chance to take their first steps into the world of radio and gain an experience like no other right here on campus.

NSR prides itself on its inclusivity, with last year’s

timetable boasting more variety than ever before.

Students of all interests and backgrounds are key to providing the ever-diversifying station sound that NSR is really known for, with shows ranging from specialist music and comedy, right through to sport and current affairs.

Aside from the eclectic mix of music and entertainment, NSR stretches far beyond the regular timetable. The music team are consistently busy interviewing some of the country’s biggest performers (including Sam Fender and Jorja Smith), reviewing gigs and organising live sets with up and coming artists, whilst the sports team provide “Fight Night” boxing coverage and specialist commentary on local fixtures, including BUCS games and the Newcastle Falcons. If this wasn’t enough, the news team head up university based investigative journalism and cover live student election debates year on year, providing representation and a voice for students. There are also opportunities to speak with field experts and local radio presenters through our links with the Student Radio Association, offering you the chance to learn the ins and outs of the business.

Opportunities at NSR are endless, whether you are an aspiring DJ, have a topic you love to talk about, or even if you just want to give radio a go, you will be welcomed with open arms.

Undoubtedly, things will be a little different this year, but the station is dedicated to providing continuity through your hectic weeks, with our flagship breakfast and drivetime shows striving to put a smile back on your face and bringing you a bit of light relief and normality in these crazy times.

NSR welcomes each and every one of you to tune

in or come along and give it a go, and they look forward to seeing you out and about on campus for a boogie when everything is a bit more normal.

Get in touch with any questions at nsr.stationmanager@newcastle.ac.uk or visit their social media @ ThisIsNSR for more information.

Inside the NSR studio

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/ThisIsNSR INSTAGRAM

@ThisIsNSR

Monday 28 September 2020

22

Societies

The BIG societies A - Z

Course and career related

Archeology Society trip, Source: Facebook

Archaeology - Bringing current and aspiring archaeologists together through nights out, day trips, educational activities, a trip abroad and more.

Biological Sciences - Fun socials alongside careers events for those studying biosciences, so don’t miss out on one of Newcastle’s largest societies.

Biology Soc - For all studying biology or related courses. Array of socials and summer ball plus academic and career events. Sports teams too.

Business Soc - Providing opportunities to meet those interested in business through a variety of social, academic and professional events.

CEG - All those studying Civil Engineering or Geosciences/geomatics welcome. Regular nights out, charity events, trips and industry talks.

Classics - For all those who are fascinated in the ancient world (not just those who study it!), we have a multitude of events and opportunities such as a trip abroad a, football and netball teams, toga themed socials and even a podcast!

Computing & Technology - Providing a forum discussing programming, web design, and all things computing.

Economics - A society for students who study economics and related studies, including socials, workships, quizzes and more.

Eldon (Law) - For anyone interested in all things law! Social and careers-based events for both law and non-law students including client interviewing, negotiation classes and mooting competitions.

Emergency Medicine - Aimed mainly at medical students, to provide education and training activities in Emergency Medicine (A&E) and pre-hospital emergency medicine.

Engineering Projects - Takes on exciting projects including but not limited to the design and construction of marine vehicles.

Engineers without Bor-

ders Society - International development organisation with projects tackling issues such as pumps and shelters in developing countries. Hands-on workshops included.

English - From film nights to group nights out to Christmas and Summer balls, there is something for everyone, all whilst surrounded by your coursemates.

Entrepreneurs - Create and supportive community providing students with key business skills.

Workshops, seminars and networking events.

Geography - Social society aimed at geographers and similar degree programmes, bringing likeminded students together to make the most of their Newcastle experience.

History - Historically the best society on campus, doing fun socials, balls, and a trip abroad Media & Culture - Whether you are passionate about the current media environment, aspire to work in the industry or just like keeping up with the latest in (pop) culture, our socials are sure to cover a wide range of interests and hobbies.

Modern Languages - The Modern Languages Society is for anyone interested in learning languages, enjoying different cultures and meeting people from all over the world! During the year you can expect to take part in our regular themed socials, film nights, conversation clubs, trips abroad and of course our amazing End of Year Ball.

Newcastle Sport and Exercise Medicine - Hosting evening lectures and master-class events from various speakers and consultants.

Nutritank - Perfect for medics and non-medics alike, we provide events such as cooking classes, recipes and teaching on nutrition and lifestyle medicine with opportunities to meet professionals in the field, plus exclusive discounts at healthy food outlets in Newcastle Paediatrics - Focused on children’s medicine, with clinical opportunities, exciting talks and our annual conference in a warm welcoming society!

Planning - Socials and events for planning students to meet others on course and become part of the community. Events range from day trips, nights out to extra-curricular sessions.

Politics - legendary Christmas drinks and summer balls.

Radiology - From interpreting X-rays to handson practical sessions like USS-guided biopsy and interventional procedures ShockSoc - Social activities for the Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering students as well as inter-society events and industrial talks.

So-

Cheese and Wine society, Source: Facebook

ciology - To allow new and existing students to meet coursemates and enjoy the Newcastle student life. Support on course material available.

Speech & Language Therapy - Social, educational and fundraising opportunities (e.g. pub quizzes, makaton training, comedy nights), whilst raising awareness of speech and language therapy.

Surgical - Support medical students seeking a career in surgery. Activities include viewing autopsies, skill sessions and careers advice.

WetSoc - Society involved with the school of Marine Science and Technology MAST. Trips near to bring people together plus trips here and abroad.

Wilderness Medicine - Promote interest in the outdoors alongside teaching skills such as assessing and treating casualties in remote and challenging environments, all while on day trips and weekends away.

General Interest 20 Minute - Reach our location in 20 minutes and you can join our wide range of amazing socials, including paintballing, space golf, and cocktail training, alongside a Mystery Holiday Anime - Weekly meetings to watch and discuss anime. Trips to cosplay and comic cons during the year and cinema trips to watch anime films.

Baking - No more soggy bottoms with our weekly baking sessions, practising everything from cake to pastry making as well as masterclasses, afternoon teas and cinema trips. For beginners and experts alike - you don’t have to be Mary Berry to take part Cheese & Wine - A fun, sociable and inclusive society which allows you to meet new people while sampling and sipping two of the tastiest things!

Chess - Non-profit society offering relaxed, affordable classes. Suitable for all levels to improve strategy, critical thinking and concentration.

Debating - Learn to debate and attend competitions from Athens to Aberdeen while building confidence and public speaking skills DJ - DJing workshops with the opportunity to practice on industry standard equipment.

Film - Weekly film screenings and socials with a huge variety including every genre of film you could possible dream of. We also hold filmmaking workshops and run student film projects throughout the year for those looking to get creative and develop new skills!

Indie - If you are interested in indie music, gig discounts and meeting new friends with similar music tastes - this is the society for you!

Literature - Fun and friendly space to find a new favourite book, meet fellow bookworms and discuss all things literary in o u r

cosy café meetings.

MUNSoc (Model UN) - Fun with flags; represent a country at the General Assembly of the United Nations for a light-hearted debate on today’s current world affairs!

Poker - For those of all abilities, weekly meetings, playing for points and fun prizes not money.

Real Ale and Cider Appreciation – Pub crawls, brewery trips, tastings and weekends away for those who are passionate about good beer or cider and want to something new.

Rock - Friendly atmosphere for all types of fan, from goth to grindcore, punk to prog rock, indie to industrial. If you love rock, we are for you.

Scout and Guide - Kickstart or continue your Scouting & Guiding adventure – lots of fun opportunities including socials, camps and adventure as part of a national organisation!

Table Top - For those interested in table-top gaming and board games, promote live action roleplaying plus organising social events.

Vegetarian and Vegan - Finding Newcastle’s hidden veggie haunts to holding cooking competitions, we have a lot to sink your teeth into.

Video Gaming & eSports - THE society for anyone who enjoys video games of any genre, and for participating in esports across the country! another year of fun with The Courier and NSR! So, if you’re reading this now and it’s peaked your interest I couldn’t recommend it enough!

NU Jazz Orchestra in action, Source: Facebook

International Cultures Afro-Caribbean - A society with a focus on celebrating African and Caribbean culture by putting on educational and entertaining events throughout the year which welcomes anyone who’s interested or part of the culture!

Anglo-Chinese - Encourage relationships between students studying Chinese and Chinese natives. To broaden interest in Chinese culture.

Anglo-Japanese - For anyone interested in anything Japanese. Opportunity for Japanese students and other students to meet. Meals, parties, trips and fundraising events for earthquake relief funds.

Arab - To unite Arabs from all over the world and to introduce the culture to Non-Arabs Bulgarian - Bulgarians and people from other nationalities are all welcome to join us on the path of maintaining the Bulgarian culture and traditions.

Chinese Student & Scholars Association - Holds various career-focused, social and cultural events.

Greek & Cypriot - Brings Greeks, Cypriots and people from other nations that wish to learn more about the Hellenic culture together. Expect tons of delicious Greek food and fun activities.

Hong Kong Public Affairs & Social Service - A place where you can understand and experience Hong Kong’s local culture and discussing all the international affairs happening nowadays.

International - Drawing together students of different nationalities with trips to popular parts of the UK to help integrate international

Monday 28 September 2020

Societies students.

Latin American - Sharing Latino culture through socials, food and fiesta!

Lithuanian - Support, understanding and easier integration into new culture. Variety of activities such as camping, hiking, films and formal events.

Malaysian - A society for anyone who is interested in knowing and experiencing Malaysian culture in Newcastle. We provide a fabulous social platform for Malaysian students and other communities around the University to meet new people and to exchange cultural experiences.

Mauritian - Trips to places of interest, meals, film nights, cinema trips, ice skating, paintballing and go-karting. Also celebrate key Mauritian festivals.

Pakistan - Bringing people from all walks of life together to enjoy Pakistani culture through fun filled events and socials Saudi Students – Offering cultural and social events that represent Saudi Arabia Singapore - Activities throughout the year such as city tours, parties, pub crawls, key festival celebrations, including Christmas and Chinese New Year.

Thai - From BBQs to sports activities, the Thai Society offer a range of opportunities for members to meet throughout the year.

Sport Coast to Coast - A social and welcoming cycling society for people of all abilities, running weekly training rides throughout the year in the run up to cycling the Coast to Coast (a charity ride from Whitehaven to Tynemouth) in March Fellwalking - Walks every weekend range from difficult ascents to easy valley rambles taking place up and down the UK. Lively social calendar.

Motorsport – Brings people together at socials and motorsport events. Chance to go karting and maybe even compete for university in the BUKC. Pilates - Weekly classes with a professional instructor, providing a friendly and fun atmosphere.

We cater for everyone and hold regular socials.

Pole & Aerial Dancing - Lessons for all abilities alongside burlesque and aerial workshops Rounders - A social non-competitive sport society suitable for all levels of fitness and ability.

Social Tennis - We provide fun tennis coaching and match play twice a week and regular socials for anyone at any ability, beginner to advanced.

Yoga - Offer affordable classes for different styles of yoga. Suitable for all abilities, whether you are a novice or are more experienced.

Arts A Capella - For people who like singing to the accompaniment of no instruments. We have four groups of both un-auditioned and auditioned A Cappella singing, including the nationally acclaimed mixed competition group ‘Tune Army’ Caledonian – Teaching you to dance Scottish reels and revel in traditional Scottish music. The dances are easy to pick up and a great for making friends.

Creative Writing - A society (open to anyone) with creative writing workshops, themed writing sessions, and fun socials!

Comedy - A welcoming environment to try out or practice stand-up, improv or writing and performing sketch comedy, with performances locally and as far away as the Edinburgh Fringe. Gain experience in creation, production and performance.

Fashion - NUFS allows its members to explore the fashion industry from different avenues depending on the members’ interest, from sewing, blogging, photography and modelling to fashion show planning, PR and socials.

Gilbert and Sullivan – Performing comic operas in a fun and welcoming atmosphere; accepting members for cast, orchestra and tech crew, no previous acting/singing experience required.

Irish Dance - Weekly classes to learn, practice and perform traditional and modern Irish dance, total beginners to seasoned competitors welcome Jazz Orchestra (NUJO) - Newcastle University’s longest running big band, playing funk, soul and swing and performing regularly at society and fundraising events and private functions, and in public.

Latin and Ballroom - An opportunity to take weekly classes from award winning teachers and compete in national competitions throughout the year, holding regular socials too!

Musical Medics - For medical students who aim to put on a musical show to raise money for charity.

Open to all abilities, no experience necessary.

Photography - We welcome all passionate photographers, beginners and professionals to learn and develop their photography skills through classes, photowalk, city trips and more.

Salsa - Hour-long contemporary salsa lessons for beginners, as well as regular socials, two fabulous balls and attendance at the Teesside Salsa Festival.

Student Orchestra and Choir - Opportunity for students to play and sing music. Concerts in the winter and spring terms. Active social calendar.

Theatre (NUTS) - With 12 full shows a year, a festival of new student writing, and an original show at the Edinburgh Fringe, NUTS is a great, welcoming society for those interested in theatre, be it as actor, offstage or panto horse.

Windband – A fun society for musicians of any ability to play a variety of music!

Faith & Belief CathSoc - We are a fun and welcoming community centred on exploring our Catholic faith and developing friendships together, open to everyone regardless of faith.

Christian Union – Aiming to encourage people in their faith, the Christian Union meets every Friday night to worship together and socialise.

Hindu & Sikh - Providing a taste of Hindu and Sikh culture for all students interested by holding many social events throughout the year and celebrating major festivals like Diwali.

Islamic - Maintains a prayer room, arranges regular lectures, study circles and social events. Hold outreach events to engage the wider community such as ‘Discover Islam Week’.

Jewish - A forum for Jewish students to meet for social, religious and educational purposes regardless of religious background or denomination.

Representative Conservative - a group made up of members from all corners of the U.K. and beyond who align with the Conservative and Unionist Party and other strains of conservative thought.

Disability and Neurodiversity - DANsoc is a community society, based around support, shared experience and knowledge and campaigning for change as well as facilitating accessible events.

Feminist - Engaging members in debate and activities relating to feminist issues.

Holds socials for members to get to know each other.

It Happens Here - We support all survivors and allies of sexual violence on campus through campaigns, self-defence, self-care and support groups Labour - Hold socials and events that encourage members to meet other like-minded students as well as organise and coordinate campaigning with local Labour affiliated groups.

Hope to attract local political and academic speakers to address, engage, and debate with the society membership.

LGBT+ - A society for all LGBT+ students to meet others, socialise, discuss issues within the community and participate in a host of activities Marxist - We’re a forum to discuss Marxism. We get involved in activism, run regular Wednesday meetings and hold reading groups.

Mind the Gap - Newcastle’s mental health awareness society, putting on discussions about current topics, providing help through stress reducing socials and peer

Baking Society, Source: Facebook

support groups, in addition to volunteering in the local community to raise awareness and educate!

Volunteering and activism Amnesty International - Affiliated with the wider organisation Amnesty International, a human rights organisation fighting for individuals suffering from injustice around the world through campaigning, protesting, lobbying and fundraising.

Engineers without Borders - International development organisation with projects tackling issues such as pumps and shelters in developing countries. Hands-on workshops included.

Extinction Rebellion - Newcastle branch of the international grassroots movements Extinction Rebellion. We focus on furthering the demands of XR which are to get the government to tell the truth about the climate and ecological emergency, set a target of net-zero emissions for 2025 and create and be led by the decisions of a citizens\' assembly on the climate crisi Friends of Medicins Sans Frontiers - We are the voice of MSF on campus, working hard to raise awareness of MSF’s incredible work. Join us and help organise campaigns, fundraise and speak out on behalf of people caught up in emergencies, disasters and epidemics.

LINKS (St. John’s Ambulance) - Student wing of the first aid charity, providing regular, relaxed first aid training sessions to learn useful skills.

Marrow - Student branch of Anthony Nolan working to raise awareness and sign up more people to the national stem cell register to save the lives of people with blood cancer People and planet Newcastle, Source: Facebook

23

Oxfam - Campaigning, petitioning, events and fundraising to support Oxfam International’s goal to improve the status of women, wages and working conditions.

People and Planet- Holds regular events aimed at raising awareness about and taking action on climate breakdown, migrant justice, workers' rights and other social and environmental issues. We work in solidarity with other student groups and grassroots movements around the world, aiming to empower the next generation of change-makers to help fight for social and environmental justice.

Raising and Giving - A charity-based society focused on raising money by hosting fundraising events throughout the year, with a huge seven day fundraising event in January Sexpression - we go to schools on Wednesday afternoons where we teach young people inclusive, reliable sex and relationship education.

Student Brewing - Members can get involved in the practical side (brewing tasks, beer tasting sessions, beer design, professional lectures and trips to different breweries) and/or the business side (marketing, finance management, public relations) of running a microbrewery on campus.

Teddy Bear Hospital - A rewarding volunteering opportunity to teach children about health alongside like-minded people.

Uniboob - We represent the breast cancer awareness charity, Coppafeel. We encourage you to check your boobs regularly and educate you on signs and symptoms of Breast Cancer. We welcome anyone and everyone to help us spread the boob love!

UNICEF on Campus - Aims to raise vital funds for UNICEF UK to give vulnerable children an education, safe water, good health and a future.

Vegan Action - A friendly and passionate group of animal rights activists, aiming to spread the vegan message across Newcastle through a variety of outreach events such as demonstrations, workshops, food stalls and documentary showings. Social events usually involve delicious vegan food - sober socials included!

We are Donors - Visiting local schools and educating young people about organ donation and how it saves lives, encouraging discussion about the important topic.

Women for Women International - Ensuring the women in conflict affected countries have the ability to proudly stand on their own two feet Youth Stop AIDS - We raise awareness and campaign through direct action where we engage with those in power to ensure that they stay committed to the goal to end AIDS by 2030.

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Monday 28 September 2020

Welfare

Guide to a balanced student life Arriving at university can be overwhelming, but we've got some tips to help stay on track Anna Robson

W

hen you think of Newcastle’s biggest sports You will most likely have been told by everyone you meet to ‘take every opportunity’ at university, to ‘say yes’ to everything as ‘time will fly’. This is partially true, but it is also okay to say NO! You are not closing doors on opportunities or experiences; you are simply balancing your time well!

The transition from school or college to university can be quite tricky at the beginning. One of the biggest changes is how independent you need to be. Some people may find this easier than others, do not worry if takes you a little longer!

Independence at university consists of being accountable for your actions as an adult; studying for your degree; turning up to lectures and seminars; and making sure you maintain a healthy body and mind. My first top tip for this would be creating a priority list. For example; my first priority is my degree, my second priority is my mental wellbeing, my third priority is my athletics training, and my fourth priority is making time for my loved ones. From this, I will plan out my week, starting off with my first priority, then my second, etc. and colour code accordingly.

You are not a failure if you don't complete your to-do list by the end of the day!

It is important to invest in a planner or calendar.

You can find cheap diaries and planners at Wilko or WHSmiths, it does not have to be fancy! A diary or planner will help with structuring your week and creating To-Do lists. However, be careful with to-do lists, you are not a failure if you do not complete the entire list in one day!

You may need a part-time job whilst at university.

A survey was done in 2019 revealing 67% of stu-

dents in the UK balance a part-time job alongside their studies. If you do need a part-time job, you need to set boundaries with your employer from the beginning by not over-committing to shifts.

67% of UK students balance a part-time job alongside thier studies A great option is to look into Newcastle’s Jobs OC (On Campus) scheme. With the university as your employer, they will be more flexible with shifts than a regular bar or shop or restaurant. Some students chose flexible work as a ‘Club Promoter’, but this will not guarantee a steady income. Be honest to yourself too, don’t underestimate how much time university work may take!

Outside commitments such as sports clubs, part-time jobs, volunteering roles can take up a lot of time. My best tip for this would be to use your study time wisely by being actively productive. This then allows for less procrastination and means you can still do the things you love without putting your studies in danger. Try downloading ‘Pomodoro’, ‘Focus Keeper’ or ‘Flora’ for some ultimate productivity.

It is very important to know when exams and assessments are due. This information can easily be found in your module handbook and on Canvas.

Keeping on top of this means you know how many weeks/months you have to work with. From here, it is a lot easier to balance your social life while ensuring you are leaving yourself enough time to complete your work. I do not want to sound like your lecturer but... please don't leave you essay to the night before. Yes, going out (or staying in) and having a great night is extremely important at university, but it is not worth failing a module.

Freshers this year is going to look a lot different for you lot. It is more important than ever to look after your mental and physical wellbeing setting aside some “me time” to do some sort of physical activity, journalling, or just to have a long bath (or grotty Leazes shower!) You'll be alright.

“Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it.” -Lou Holtz

The importance of personal tutors Meg Howe on how much personal tutoring has meant to her at university Meg Howe

T

— Lifestyle sub-editor

he University have many different people and places you can go to for help, including Peer Mentors and the Welfare Service. However, the usefulness of Personal Tutors and other academic staff is often overlooked.

It is common to feel intimidated by the thought of approaching an academic member of staff, but it is important to remember that their role extends beyond the lecture theatre or seminar room. They aren’t just invested in your academic lives, but your welfare, too.

You will have been assigned a Personal Tutor during the induction stage of your course, and their information – including their name and university contact details – should be accessible on the Newcastle University App.

You may never have had the chance to build a rapport with a member of staff before, in the way then you can with your Personal Tutor; and despite how embarrassed you may feel about breaking the ice, they really aren’t as scary as you might think!

Staff will go above and beyond in order to help you and no question is a silly one While there are the conventions of writing a formal email to a member of academic staff (Dear Dr/Professor First and Surname; Kind regards, First and Surname; and no emojis, etc), most staff members will insist you call them by their first name. Yes, this does seem rather strange when they introduce themselves with their full title on your induction PowerPoints, but it honestly does break the ice.

As the name suggests, Personal Tutors are there to help you personally, whether this be with aca-

demic worries or how to approach a financial issue. However, in the rare case that your Personal Tutor does not help in the way you expected (or needed), other academic staff are there to help, too.

Of course, we get on better with some people than we do with others, and you may find you get on a lot better with another academic staff member; this is also okay!

It is important that you realise many staff members will go above and beyond in order to help you and no question is a silly question (they will have definitely heard it all before!).

A wonderful example of this is a Professor in the School of History, who went above and beyond to help a student who was not feeling great during their first few weeks in Newcastle. She created a connection with the student and gave them ways to get out of the awful situation they were in. In fact, she gave her own home address and contact details to this student; giving them permission to contact her if they needed in hours when the University was closed. She also made contact with the student a few weeks later to check all was okay!

In short, it’s worth remembering that academic staff can be more helpful than you may think. Not

Instagram: @lescargot.papier

only will they be giving you references after your degree, but they have years of knowledge and plenty of advice to give.

Monday 28 September 2020

Welfare

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Unwind, destress, eat scones, stroke dogs Sophie Wilson provides the best spots for retreat when it's all becoming too much...

S

emester stress hits really hard, as does the week five blues. So, it is important (in fact vital) to know the best places to wind down in Newcastle.

Picture this: deadlines are drawing in, your washing is piling up in your laundry basket at home, your money is running out because you spent it all on two pound Tuesdays. Well, fear no more, because I want to share with you some of the best (and relatively cheap) things to do around the city.

Jesmond Dene This holds a really dear place in my heart, because it reminds me of home. I live in the Lake District when I am at ‘home home’, and so being in the city I miss having open green spaces to go jogging in, or to walk through when I need to destress. Jesmond Dene is my absolute favourite place to go to therefore, when I want to be reminded of home for some comfort. Take a stroll through, stop on the

The Dene holds a really dear place in my heart because it reminds me of home

bridges to take some photos, and even visit the pet corner if you’re feeling up for it.

The Baltic If you love art, then this is the place to go. You can go and see exhibitions which centre around a whale made of sand, or one that smells of bird poo to depict a dystopian future land, or go and check out some beautiful paintings. The exhibitions change, but I am sure that you will always find something to spark your interest.

And hey, if not, then there is always the balcony that lets you see the beautiful view of the Quayside (thank me later).

Quilliams If you are on a budget, but still want to treat

Jesmond Dene, Finlay Higgard

Jesmond Dene, Finlay Higgard

Jesmond Dene, Finlay Higgard

yourself, then take yourself here and buy yourself a pot of flavoured tea. This place will calm you down so easily, because it is just filled with tea loving, book loving, film loving people (in my experience) who have all gone there to chat to their friends or to do some work in a chilled out environment. (My favourite tea is Quilliams’ marzipan flavoured one and I think you will love it!)

The Dog Cafe Sit down, order yourself a hot chocolate and stroke some dogs. I mean, COME ON! It is scientifically proven that stroking dogs makes you calmer and more relaxed. This is a slightly more expensive option for all you budgeters, but it is totally worth it. You will leave the café feeling loved and refreshed!

Jesmond Dene, Finlay Higgard

Coping with moving: COVID-19 edition Ellie James

M

— Head of Life & Style

oving to university can be a daunting experience. Leaving home and your loved ones behind is already tough even without a global pandemic looming over you. Now that things have changed, the new normal seems hard to fit into what the usual university experience has been for decades. Masks, frequent hand washing and making sure to keep your distance seem alien in a student world where you're supposed to be socializing and figuring out who you are. So how can you do this in a safe and responsible way, adjusting to a new life not only in a new city, but also in a new way of life?

I remember my first year at uni very well. Moving into a flat with five people you've not met before seems bizarre, right? But in fact, it's one of the best ways to get you out in the world and learning how to mix with those with various backgrounds, cultures and even personalities.

Get to know the people you're living with There are always a few students who feel shy or simply afraid to get to know their flat, which can result in them hiding away in their rooms.

This year, this might be even more common as COVID is a not so welcome flat sharer, and your flatmate may feel uncomfortable being in close proximity. If this is the case - whether shyness or Corona-related - make sure they know they can come and get to know you and the others when they feel ready and safe to do so, and make sure to be polite with how they feel about the virus.

Everybody is different in how they deal with new experiences.

These are the people who you will be sleeping

in a room across from, cooking with and sharing living space with. It's like having a bunch of brothers or sisters and can really be such an amazing experience. So get to know them. Besides, with lockdown measures being up and down, you'll want to be familiar with the people you have around you.

"November Blues" It's a phrase that you might hear blowing around uni, and it's not unsurprising that many students might get a little low after all the hype of starting life in a new place, events - and also festivities such as Halloween and bonfire night - are all over. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement, before having to turn your attention to assessments and revision or just having less to distract you from any home sickness. But it's OK. This is when you need to make sure you are exploring your surroundings (safely) and getting to know your flat as much as possible. If you find yourself feeling low or like daily tasks become hard to complete, talk to someone. Your personal tutor, a flatmate, your family, home friends.

Anyone. And to keep you engaged and not stuck in your mind, why not suggest a night where your flat make a meal together? Or even play a board game or watch a film. Just try not to hole yourself away in your room if you can. You've got this, and its perfectly valid if you feel this way, many will even if they don't say it out loud.

Don't worry if you havent met your best friends yet!

A lot of students worry about making friends at uni, whether it be any at all or even if you'll find 'your people' or getting into 'the wrong crowd.'

This year, again this may seem even more daunting. Even though I haven't had to experience my

first year during a global pandemic, I can say that regardless, you will find people who you will love to bits. Some people instantly click with their flatmates, others find them on their course, or through friends of friends.

I know some who didn't find their people until end of first year or second year. But the whole process is exciting and allows you to grow as you figure out who you are, trying out different versions of you. This year, this may be a little harder to do. But regardless, you will end up around who you were meant to be friends with - what is for you will not pass you by. Try getting involved in the conversation's on your course chat, or those who are joining the same societies as you so that you are open to making friendships.

I promise it's worth it.

If someone is pressuring you to break the rules, do what you know is right

Don't be forced into situation where you're trying to impress people I think a strong piece of advice when starting uni is not trying to impress people by doing things you wouldn't usually do. It's common to find yourself in situations where you have a choice, and sometimes the pressure of wanting to make friends gets to you a little and you choose the option you would never even consider at home. But you don't have to change yourself to make friends. Only by being yourself will

you find the right people for you!

In relation to Coronavirus, if someone is pressuring you to break rules, do not give in just to look 'cool' or follow the crowd. Do what you know is right, and make choices based on simple morals you have before you were thrust into a new place with many possibilities surrounding you.

All in all, you are starting a journey that you will cherish forever. It flies by, and you'll be wanting to get back to first year by time you enter your third. Enjoy it, have fun, make memories and record as much of it as you can - one day you'll want to relive it even if it's just through pictures and videos, and even if there are masks and hand sanitizer lurking in the background.

Need help or advice?

Student Advice Centre

Free, confidential, independent and inpartial service available to all current students. Separate from the University, the SAC offers a sympathetic listening ear, information, advice, assistance and representation on a wide range of issues

studentadvicecentre@newcastle.ac.uk 0191 239 3979

Nightline

Nightline is our confidential and anonymous support service run by students for the benefit of students.

Lines are open from 8pm to 8am every night during term time. Need some to talk about any issues or upsets from missed deadlines to mental health struggles? Nightline is a safe place to talk about all your troubles or just a friendly ear to listen

nusu.co.uk/nightline 0191 261 2905

Monday 28 September 2020

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Events

THE COURIER guide

Scheduled online events Virtual Escape Room 26th September 5-8pm Do you have what it takes to solve this decadesold conundrum? Can you decode the brainmelting puzzles before the time runs out?

How to profile a serial killer 28th September 7-9pm Join us for a 90-minute lecture with one of the country's best known psychologists, Dr. Glen Wilson, and peer into the mind of a serial killer

Fyreside: a virtual chat with Andy King 30th September 7-9pm Andy King, the star of Netflix documentary "FYRE: The greatest party that never happened" will be live in conversation! Hear what really went on behind the scenes in Exums, as well as what Andy's done since and the future of international events

Freshers Goes Virtual with Bongo's Bingo and Clean Bandit 1st October 7.30-10pm Launching live at 7.30pm on Thursday 1st October 2020, students across the UK will be able to tune in to a 3-hour, nation-wide event like no other: Freshers Goes Virtual

Virtual Cook-a-Long (Roast) 4th October noon-3pm Grab your flatmates and learn how to prepare and serve a hearty traditional Sunday Roast!

Whether you're missing your home comforts or you're looking to try a quintessentially British dish, join Tastes Like Tom as he walks you through everything you’ll need for you and

Tours and trips

your group.

You will be sent a shopping list and some advice to get yourself ready, then you’ll be invited to an interactive workshop that runs over the course of an afternoon. With a few tricks up your sleeve you can produce a stress free spread with plenty of leftovers!

Virtual Quiz and Nightclub with Complexion 8th October 7-11pm We'll be celebrating Black British music culture by exploring the key influencers that shaped a global musical movement. Get involved with the event by joing the quiz, telling us your favourite artists, and join us in celebrating the next BIG THING

Virtual Beer Festival 9th October 7-9pm

Newcastle University campus

Get involved with the event by joing the quiz, telling us your favourite artists, and join us in celebrating the next BIG THING Join Laine Brew Co for a celebration of all things beer, with some delicious samples for you to try! All you need to do is buy your ticket, collect your beers from the Students' Union and log on for a guided tour through a range of products, hosted by our resident brewer. It’s the perfect opportunity to bask in all things hoppy from the comfort of your own home.

GIAG Virtual Quiz

Put your knowledge to the test with the ultimate GIAG quiz! Get your teams together and see who will earn the bragging rights as the Quiz Champions at the end of the evening!

GIAG Virtual Cafe

Join us from the comfort of your own home for a catch up and a cuppa!

Image: flickr

Campus Tours

Take a free guided tour around the city campus as our knowledgeable team point out the parts of campus you’ll need to know!

City Hot Spots Tours

Join us for a free guided tour around Newcastle City Centre by our experienced team who will take you to some great student hot spots.

Ouseburn Walks

Join us for a walk to the quirky Ouseburn – an area just off the Quayside with cafes, bars and even an urban farm!

Discover the Quayside Join us for a walk to the beautiful Quayside to see this beauty hotspot, including the Tyne, Millennium

Bridge, and the Sage

Tynemouth Trip

Join us for a trip to the beautiful seaside town of Tynemouth! We’ll be travelling as a group via metro, and then you can split off if you'd like.

Jesmond Dene Walks

Join us for a walk out of the city centre to a beautiful green space – Jesmond Dene, shocasing the streams, picnic areas, and of course pets corner!

Grey's monument on Grey Street. Grade I listed monument to Earl Grey 2nd and commonly cited as the beacon of Newcastle city centre Source: picfair

Monday 28 September 2020

Events

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e to welcome events Activites Welcome Socials

Join us in the Northern Stage Stretch Tent, or online, for our welcome social where you can meet the team, find out about everything going on during the welcome weeks, and meet other new students (we’ll bring the snacks!)

Larn Yasalf Geordie

You may have noticed the interesting dialect people from Newcastle or ‘Geordies’ have, and we’ll take you through some typical Geordie phrases and traditions to make you feel at ‘hyem!’

Geordie Scran

This is a fun informal session where we’ll teach you about some local delicacies or better known in Newcastle as ‘scran!’ We’ll share some recipes and you’ll have the chance to sample these too!

Brititsh Culture Social

This is a great introduction to the British culture if this is new to you, and we’ll have a fun evening discussing British traditions and have some British foods to sample!

Speech and Language Therapy

Makaton online training session where the committee will teach their favourite and most useful signs in an informal zoom session

Beach Box Socials

Head on over to the ONLY Beach in the city, complete with REAL Sand, Live performances, lush drinks and great street food…! If that’s not enough we also have great bar games such as darts and shuffle boards for you to get involved with whilst enjoying the tunes down by Jesmonds first urban beachside resort! Exclusive times for Newcastle Students midday-5pm!

NUSU Introducing...

Running twice during the welcome period, you can head to the stretch tent on campus for NUSU Introducing. Come & Grab a drink, sit

Sports sessions

back and chill as we give you the best Live acts from across the North east as well as some of our favourite cover artists for you to sing along to! Djs spinning top tunes all afternoon until the early evening!

Saturday Night Stand-up LIVE

Running twice during the welcome period, you can enjoy an evening outside the Students' Union for some stand-up comedy. Come on down and watch the finest stand-up comedians from across the country, guaranteed to have you howling with laughter! Local Legend Matt Reed is your compare for the night as we bring the house (tent) down! We’ve split the acts up into our 2 outside stages so you can have double the fun across the SU!

Comedy Bingo Revolution

It’s a stroke of comedy genius, live DJs, real life actors and BINGO..! Hosted outside of the Students' Union building, come and join in. If you havent already been part of Bingos radical transformation where have you been?!

Quiet dabbing is a thing of the past here at the SU! Hosted by top local comedians, with big prizes, expect an evening of non-stop laugher, interactive rounds, random prizes and of course, bingo!

Let's Get Quizzical

Hosted in the strecth tents outside the Students' Union building, get your thinking Caps on and get in your teams as we get set to give you a fully interactive socially distanced Quiz like no other that will make you think you’re on University Challenge. Prizes and giveaways galore for the winners of each round!

Night at the Movies

Running several times during the welcome period, come and watch some absolute classic films on our big outside screens whilst we provide the popcorn and candyfloss for you to tuck into! Bookable times: Finding Nemo, Stretch Tent- 7th October 7-9pm, The Lion King, White tent, 7th October 7-9pm, The Greatest Showman, Stretch tent- 11th October 6-9pm, Shrek, White tent - 11th October 7-9pm

Source: flickr

HIIT the Park

Join the HIIT The Park Society as they take you through a fun full body weight workout in Exhibition Park to really get the endorphins pumping!

Bookable times: 30th September 6pm-7pm, 7th October 6-7pm, 14th October 6pm-7pm

Figure skating

Get a taste of the ice with a beginners' session of ice skating at Whitley Bay Ice Rink

Virtual Zoomba Classes

Join the Zumba Society’s beginner Zumba sessions and follow the instructor online for a fun, energising, dance workout!

Bookable times: Tuesday 29 September 2020 at 6:30pm, 6th October 6.30-7.30 pm

Online Yoga classes

Sally’s beginner yoga practices will introduce you to the fundamentals of yoga postures so that you can feel comfortable in all yoga classes and allow you to progress your practice as you wish.

This practice will be at a steady pace with plenty of time to pause, break down postures where appropriate and will allow students to begin to really listen and explore their bodies to find out what is possible and to feel good about themselves. This class is virtual, meaning you can join Sally from the comfort of your accommodation or home.

Bookable times: 29th Septemeber, 1st October, 20th October, 8th October, 27th October , all 6.30-7.30pm

Virtual Esports Tornament Esports is the fastest-growing entertainment market on the planet, with competitive tournaments being watched by millions, who tune in to watch their favoruite videogames being played by the very best.

Bookable times: 2nd October 7-11pm

Newly erected stretch tent for socially distanced events on campus, Source: @NewcastleSU Twitter

Social table tennis

Working alongisde Table Tennis England's Guidlines, we've designed return to play sessions that maintain social distancing and provide a number of opportunities for all to enjoy Table Tennis.

This free event has everything you need to enjoy table tennis in a safe environment whilst meeting some likeminded students. We've taken care of everything from equipment to facilities, simply book your space online, so we can maintain numbers at each session Bookable times: 1st Ocotber 12-1pm, 7th October 5-6pm

Social Squash

Working alongisde England Squash Guidlines, we've designed return to play GIAG bubble sessions that maintain social distancing and provide a number of opportunities for all to pick up the racket for the first time or get back into squash.

This free event has everything you need to enjoy squash in a safe environment whilst meeting some likeminded students. We've taken care of everything from equipment to facilities, simply book your space online, so we can maintain numbers at each session.

Bookable times: 3rd Ocotber 9.45-10.45am, 3rd October 11am-12pm, 8th October 12.451.45pm, 10th October 9.45-10.45am and 1112pm

Figure skating

Get a taste of the ice with a beginners' session of ice skating at Whitley Bay Ice Rink

Rounders

Rounders society are running sessions for anyone to sign up to where we will play friendly matches. You will need comfortable clothes to play in and possibly a drink to keep hydrated! We will provide hand sanitiser and wipes for the sessions to keep everything Covid-19 friendly. So, get signed up to come along and try out our society!

This session will take place in Exhibition Park (a 5 minute walk from city campus) Bookable times: 3rd Ocotber 2-2.45pm, 3-3.45pm, 7th October 2-2.45pm, 3-3.45pm

Monday 28 September 2020

Safety

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COVID-19 safety measures: the basics Student life is going to be a little different this year, so here's a brief overview about some of the main changes you can expect

Safety pack on arrival

Life on Campus

Food

Campus Helpers

Volunteers on site to help guide and move students around safely and efficiently, and answer questions

Screens & barriers

Installed throughout campus to help allow for physical distancing

One way system

One way system in operation across campus, guided by signs and floor stickers, in order to aid social distancing

Sanitisation and cleanliness

Hand sanitiser dispensers installed throughout campus Frequent deep-cleaning of buildings, including frequently-touched areas such as door handles

Includes a digital thermometer, a reusable and washable face covering and a refillable hand sanitiser bottle, together with instructions on how to use them.

The hand sanitisers included in the packs can be refilled for free from the many hand sanitiser dispensers across campus.

Improved social distancing across all on-campus catering outlets Option for delivery by Students' Union Co-op store!

Quarantine

If you need to quarantine, you will be priovided with a support package including some essential food and a buddy to help see you through the process If you are unable to attend an in person class on campus due to self-isolation, you can notify your school by submitting a Student Notification of Absence Request. This can be done by emailing your school.

Travelling to campus

Whilst public transport will still operate, you are advised to only use it for essential purposes.

Campus has limited parking space. Therefore, students are advised to walk or cycle to campus. There are 2,000 cycle parking stands around campus, and many dedicated cycle lanes throughout the city.

Academia

Supporting mental health

Teaching

Social Activities

Teaching will be a micture of in-person and online. All lectures will be online. Most courses will be available completely online for those who cannot make it onto campus due to restrcitions such as quarantine or shielding

Access to the library

Library resources will be available. Access physcial books by either click and collect, click and post or contactlesss drop off. Library online resources are available as usual

Access to IT

3000 virtual "clusters" available, meaning students can access all necessary software from their own, home computers Long-term laptop loan scheme for those who don't have a laptop and are eligible

For enquiries about quarantine or the support package, contact: covid19enquiries@ncl.ac.uk

Student Union welcome week, including online and in-person events socially distanced using the stretch tent on campus Over 300 clubs and societies to join

Student support

Student Support Services, including Wellbeing, Finance and award-winning Careers Service made available online. Students can access oneto-one counselling appointments, online CV support and finance advice sessions all virtually and remotely

Support network

All new undergraduate students assigned a peer mentor to help settle in, make friends and answer any questions.

All students also assigned a personal tutor for more academic support

Scan here for for help with access to food delivery or other assistance

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Monday 28 September 2020

Sport The biggest and best sport clubs in Newcastle Our sport sub-editors run down the best sport clubs in Newcastle Heaton Stannington Football When you think of Newcastle’s biggest sports clubs it’s likely that Heaton Stannington won’t be the first name to spring to mind, but with £2 student entry and £2 pints, who could say no?

Heaton Stannington were formed in 1910 and have played at Grounsell Park in High Heaton since 1935. Plying their trade in Northern League Division 2,

they regularly attract some of the largest attendances across the Northern League – including a Northern League-high 257 fans on Non-League day 2019. An unexpected guest made an appearance.

You never know if you’ll see a star in the making. In 2012 Aubameyang made his first appearance on English soil against Heaton Stannington – as Bizzare as it sounds – when Heaton played Gabon’s Olympic team in a friendly at Grounsell Park. Gabon won the game 4-0, and years later, Aubameyang is one of the Premier League’s deadliest finishers.

If this isn’t enough, Stan’s clubhouse has won numerous awards, including the 2018 (Campaign for Real Ale) Club of the Year. The clubhouse is open

six days a week and is best enjoyed on match day, serving a wide selection serve real ale for only £2.20. For those of you itching for your football fix on a student budget, look no further than “Newcastle’s alternative black and white’s”, Heaton Stannington.

- Andrew White

Newcastle Falcons Rugby The Newcastle Falcons, established in 1887, are one of only two professional rugby union clubs in the North East of England. They play their games at Kingston Park in Newcastle.

The Falcons had an extremely successful 2019/20 campaign.

They were relegated in 2019 to the RFU Championship, however following 66 points from 14 games in the Championship, found themselves sitting at the top of the table when it was ended prematurely and as such were eligible for promotion back to the Premiership for the 2020/21 season. They will also play in the European Challenge Cup in the coming season.

The team have recently announced that Logovi’i Mulipola, a Samoan international, will rejoin the team for the 2021 campaign along with Tom Penny, who came through the Falcons academy before spending some time with the Harlequins.

Their crowd turnout has steadily improved over the last 5 years, with some fix-

tures seeing over 10,000 spectators. For a great atmosphere and great rugby at the top level of the game, get down to a Newcastle Falcons game this season.

- Elana Shapiro

Some fixtures saw over 10,000 spectators!

Newcastle Benfield FC Football Local non-league side, Newcastle Benfield FC, play in the first division of the EBAC Northern League. Founded in 1889, it is the second oldest league in the world after the English Football League itself.

They play at Sam Smith’s Park in Walkergate, which is about a 20 minute journey from the city centre via public transport. For the 2020/21 season, Benfield are offering one of the cheapest season tickets for students in the local area – just £25 for all league and cup games.

The club formed in 1988 as Brunswick Village and have been playing at the current ground on Benfield Road since the 1990’s. As the club grew over the years, they merged with local North Shield’s side, St. Columbus, at the turn of the millennium. After league-title success in the early 2000’s, the Lions have been playing in the Northern League since 2007.

The club also has a reserve side, playing in the Northern Alliance league, where local talent is nurtured, as well as under-18’s who play in the Durham FA. - Philip Etchells

Newcastle United Football It is impossible to miss the presence of Newcastle United within the city.

From the hundreds of locals who will be wearing various shirts home or away out and about to the iconic St James’ Park Stadium visible from almost every point, it is a club etched into the fabric of Tyneside. Founded in 1892, Newcastle are a team that have arguably underperformed for a club of its stature.

It is since 2006 that the Geordies have become increasingly frustrated with their team, or more accurately, their owner. Mike Ashley took over the club and has overseen highs and lows, with two relegations (the only times Newcastle have been relegated in the Premier League era) as well as seeing European football again. Many fans consider Ashley to show a lack of ambition for a club of Newcastle’s size and his involvement to be damaging to the club. When the club have splashed out, notably their record signing Joelinton for £40 million, there has been underachievement with the Brazilian only scoring twice last season. Although the Geordies in the Ashley era can at least take solace in the fact their fierce rivals from Wearside, Sunderland have fared far worse in the last decade and now reside in League One. Summer 2020 saw talk of a potential takeover by a Saudi consortium, although scrutiny from MPs over piracy and human rights allegations led to the takeover being withdrawn in July.

In September, Ashley hired lawyers to argue the blocking of the takeover was unfair.

- Sam Slater

Newcastle Falcons, Source: Flickr

BUCS announces 'Return to Play' guidelines in response to COVID Alex Walker

T

he governing body for sports in Universities, the British Universities and Colleges Sport, have announced their ‘Return to Play’ Guidelines for next term.

After collecting information from ‘Over 60 institutions and more than 1,600 teams’, BUCS have announced major changes to sport within universities, with competition taking place on a regional, rather than national, basis being the most popular approach.

The emphasis on sport will shift from competition to fun One of the biggest changes announced is that the emphasis on sport will shift from competition to fun, with ‘no rewards aligned to performance in the competition’. However, BUCS will ‘work in conjunction with members to recognise the performances and stories that arise as student sport returns to cam-

puses’, meaning that players and teams will be recognised for their performances, without trophies or titles being awarded.

Sports fixtures and events will rely on "discretion" Sports fixtures and events will rely on ‘the discretion of institutions’ to allow for more flexibility, and cope with potential local lockdowns. A full calendar will be released in the future, once University teams have entered for events.

Unfortunately, despite these measures, some events have been cancelled.

These include Indoor Athletics, Boxing, Slalom Canoeing, Track Cycling, Snowsports, Swimming – Speedo and the Autumn Taekwondo Competition.

However, Weightlifting and Handball will be added to the list of events provided.room with en suite facilities at Castle Leazes. Park View is the University’s newest build, and caters for the largest proportion of first years, with en-suite rooms costing £137.13 a week.

From September 2020, the St Mary’s site will no longer be available for students.

Furthermore, Newcastle University

offers accommodation through a range of managed partnership agreements with private providers, including Liberty Plaza, Newgate Court, The View and Turner Court, Blackstone first ventured into student accommodation when it created Nido with the developer Generation Estates in 2007. Nido now owns three accommodation sites across Newcastle: Union Square, Stepney Yard and The Bridge.

Across the UK it caters for students from over 120 Higher Education institutions.

Currently 18% of purpose-built student accommodation is owned and operated by companies such as iQ, Downing Students and Vita, while universities own 18% and private rentals 42%.

The BUCS seem to have made sufficient preparation for possible local lockdowns, which should protect students in sport. However, I don’t know if the lack of a formal system of achievement is a good thing or not. On the one hand, its good to see that sport will continue for the sake of fun, rather than competition, something sport on every level could do with a bit more of. Nevertheless, it does rather take the fire out of the game. Sportspeople often join university teams because they enjoy the competition. The lack of competition might reduce the interest in university

sport, and therefore the quality of the sport being played.

For Newcastle, it’s a somewhat bittersweet development. While it’s great we’re going to see sport carrying on, Newcastle was ranked ninth overall with 2204 points in BUCS league table before the lockdown started.

This means the University was on track to a fifth consecutive Top 10 finish, with the second highest number of league titles in any given year. Hopefully, the end to direct competition for the foreseeable future won’t break Newcastle’s spell at the top of University Sport.

Image: Newcastle University Men's Football Club on Facebook

Monday 28 September 2020

Sport

31

Get to know your Athletic Union Officer, Benthe Tanghe Tom Moorcroft

A

— Head of sport

head of your adventure in Newcastle, we thought we’d sit down and have a quick chat with Benthe Tanghe, the AU Officer for 2020/21.

Benthe is your main port of call on everything sport related. As Athletic Union Officer, she oversees all our 65 sport clubs and is here to ensure that the voices and opinions of those participating in sport are heard and represented.

If you could give one piece of advice for Freshers going to Newcastle this year what would it be and why?

Get involved in as many opportunities as you can It is quiet cliche, considering my role, but my advice would be to get involved in as many opportunities as you can, including getting involved in sport.

Obviously with COVID going on and guidelines changing all the time, it is and will be challenging. It’s not going to be anything like we’re used to. But my advice would be, where possible, just get involved in sport. Even if you don’t think you like sport that much it’s much more than just the competitive side – we also have a lot of socials and fun things.

It’ll mainly be down to what can go ahead, but it’s a great way to make new friends and a great opportunity to pick up a new sport or excel in a sport you already play. Perhaps more importantly, in these strange times, it’s fantastic for your mental and physical well-being.

What advice would you give to Freshers who are unsure about

getting involved in sport?

Try and get out of your comfort zone where possible. It’s very easy in times like this to isolate yourself, even if you’re an extroverted person. I can imagine that for Freshers coming in the opportunities to meet new people will be different than normal, so again, sports is a fantastic way to meet new people in a calm and welcoming environment.

You should try and stay in contact with home as much as possible as well, and you friends, old and new, as well, as it can be very daunting during your first semester. NUSU is hear to help, and they offer their ‘Give It A Go’ programme, which allows students to try a variety of different sports and activities without fully committing.

What sports facilities in Newcastle would you recommend for Freshers?

The gym facilities we have on campus are great, it’s £75 for a yearly pass. However, I realise that the gym might not be something that everyone likes or feel comfortable with. We luckily live in an amazing city and personally I enjoy going for a walk or a run at the Quayside.

Another lovely venue to go for a walk is Jesmond Dene. Going for a walk is a great way to exercise and gets you out of the house.

How will Uni sport be affected

by COVID? It changes all the time. As it stands right now we have to assess it for each different sport, which takes a lot of time. As a University and SU our main advice is that anything allowed by the government is allowed by us. At the end of the day, however, it really is a changing cycle.

Best places to go to in Newcastle during the day?

I love Newcastle City Centre. It’s very difficult to pick one place because there’s so much to do, although if I had to pick one it would be Quayside. During lock-down, while going on walks, you can discover places you’ve never been. I think there’s a good message for Freshers, in that there’s so much to do in Newcastle but it isn’t necessarily a big place. That’s what makes Newcastle special.

What were you first impressions of Newcastle as a city

reason I’m still here is I joined a sports club and I got to meet people from the UK. It definitely gets you into the culture and you get to appreciate where you live. Especially when you speak to locals, which can be scary the first time around! Simply put: try new things. Get yourself out there.

Could you tell Freshers more about the ‘Widening Participation

Bursary‘?

The Participation Bursary is an important initiative in which NUSU is committed to ensure that students can take full advantage of their time here.

We recognise that financial obstacles can arise which prevent students from accessing the activities we offer. The Participation Bursary is put in place to remove these barriers to participation by helping cover some of costs in getting involved. You can apply for the bursary for support in for example, memberships costs for clubs, funding a trip or buying sports kit and equipment.

More information can be found on our website.

I've been working on equality in sportswear for more nonmale students

I felt ‘at home’ right away. I didn’t know a lot about Newcastle when I first came over, I think I only had seen some images on google of the University and the bridges.

As I came here as part of an exchange programme, all I had seen from the UK was London.

When I arrived though, I went for a walk in town and immediately felt ‘at home’.

What advice would you give to foreign students, like you were, travelling to Newcastle for the first time?

Try to meet new people right away.

I had great international friends and some of them I still talk to. I think the

What changes do you hope to implement while you’re an AU Officer?

My main point during the elections was to create a more accessible, inclusive and united Team Newcastle. One of the ways I’ve been working on so far this is working on more equality in our sportswear, for non-male gendered students. It seems so far that there is quite a lot of progress already, so I am excited to see where this goes. Another point I’m really passionate about is the subject mental health. Together with Hannah (Activities Officer) I’ve been working on including more awareness for mental health problems in the Club and Society Officer training. I hope to continue this work and to create more awareness for mental health, as it so important, especially this year.

Benthe Tanghe, Source: NUSU

A-Z of all Newcastle University sports clubs American Football Club g.c.e.knight1@newcastle.ac.uk Archery Club archery@newcastle.ac.uk Athletics & Cross Country Club h.malpass@newcastle.ac.uk Badminton Club h.malpass@newcastle.ac.uk Basketball Men's Club m.samake@newcastle.ac.uk Basketball Women's Club e.v.taylor@newcastle.ac.uk Boat Club f.munro@newcastle.ac.uk Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Mixed Martial Arts Club facebook.com/groups/NUBJJMMA Canoe Club b.coad@ncl.ac.uk Caving Club j.hankey@newcastle.ac.uk Cheerleading Club r.jackson8@newcastle.ac.uk Clay Pigeon Shooting Club t.jones5@newcastle.ac.uk) Climbing Club

t.kitching2@newcastle.ac.uk Cricket (Mens and Ladies) Club President s.ryding2@newcastle.ac.uk Secretary: b7040144@newcastle.ac.uk Cycling Club alex@platties.com Dance Club dance.society@ncl.ac.uk Darts (NUDS) Club m.williams10@newcastle.ac.uk Dodgeball Club p.precious@newcastle.ac.uk Equestrian Club s.findlay@ncl.ac.uk Fencing b.granville1@newcastle.ac.uk Football (Mens) Club j.donoghue2@newcastle.ac.uk Football (Womens) Club k.e.hardy@newcastle.ac.uk Futsal Club s.lunn@newcastle.ac.uk Golf Club w.eardley@newcastle.ac.uk Gymnastics Club f.hughes@newcastle.ac.uk

Hockey Men's Club t.innes@newcastle.ac.uk Ice Hockey Club a.bryant2@newcastle.ac.uk Jitsu Club y.jeon2@newcastle.ac.uk Judo Club a.wilcox@newcastle.ac.uk Karate Club l.mcpeake1@newcastle.ac.uk Kendo Club t.smith11@newcastle.ac.uk Kickboxing Club c.mifsud@ncl.ac.uk Korfball Club l.baker5@newcastle.ac.uk Lacrosse Men's Club f.lees@newcastle.ac.uk Lacrosse Women's Club s.long5@ncl.c.uk Ladies Hockey Club k.lavers@newcastle.ac.uk Motor Sport Club a.fleming@newcastle.ac.uk Netball Club a.bower@newcastle.ac.uk

Parachute Club a.tudsbery@newcastle.ac.uk Polo Club e.birch@newcastle.ac.uk Pool and Snooker Club d.skelton2@newcastle.ac.uk Real Tennis Club s.coley@ncl.ac.uk Rifle Club nrifle@newcastle.ac.uk Rugby League Club l.bailey4@newcastle.ac.uk Rugby Men's Club e.smith23@newcastle.ac.uk Rugby Women's Club a.l.busch1@newcastle.ac.uk Sailing & Yachting Club NUSYCcommodore@gmail.com Sepak Takraw Club j.moore10@newcastle.ac.uk Ski & Snowboarding Club president@nussc.org Squash Club m.jolley1@newcastle.ac.uk Sub Aqua r.perry2@newcastle.ac.uk

Surf Club f.kiely@newcastle.ac.uk Swimming Club c.burns8@newcastle.ac.uk Table Tennis Club j.hamshaw-thomas1@newcastle.ac.uk Tae Kwon Do Club a.hicks@newcastle.ac.uk Tennis Club ncltennis@outlook.com Thai Boxing Club c.adams3@newcastle.ac.uk Trampoline Club a.hinchcliffe@newcastle.ac.uk Triathlon Club b.harrington@newcastle.ac.uk Ultimate Club v.cook@newcastle.ac.uk Volleyball Club p.bean@newcastle.ac.uk Water Polo Club n.royston@newcastle.ac.uk Weightlifting Club j.corrigan@newcastle.ac.uk