The Bucks Student - Edition 49

Novemeber 2014 - Edition 49

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G N I O G T O N IT’S . . .

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3

Introduction.

November Issue

This Edition: page 4

Theres a new Queen on top of the deck. Check out the full story on page 8.

NSS, Oh Yes. Becci Hailey grills Pro Vice Chancellor, Shân Wareing over last years National Student Survey results.

page 8

Contributors Lee Stevenson-Rose (Editor) • Becci Hailey Vanese Maddix • Katy Carson • Dannielle Pilcher Tom Hancock • Dan Earl • Sophia Twine Lizzie Farrell • Sophie Lynch • David Williams QC James Harry Bull • Jean-Luke Laister • George Preyer Sam Osei-Tutu • Grant Sekhon • Tom Castle Greg Pike

Bring out the Bunting After the announcement of Vice Chancellor, Prof Ruth Farwell's retirement we a proud to introduce the new VC.

page 11 Want to see your name in the list above? Want to have your writing or artwork on show to thousands of people?

Get involved. Email editor@thebucksstudent.com

Wakey wakey.

Katy explains why you should wake up.

page 19

Advertising

Maracas Out! They're back and mariachi'er then ever.

For all advertising and media enquiries please contact the Students’ Union Communications and Marketing department.

page 22

Simon McDowell - simon.mcdowell@bucks.ac.uk Articles in this newspaper do not necessarily represent the views of Bucks Students’ Union but are that of the specific author. View this edition online at bucksstudentsunion.org/communications. © 2014 Bucks Students’ Union

If required, this document can be made available in different formats. Please contact Bucks Students' Union for more information.

Depression.

Lizzie explains why being sad, lonely or depressed at university isn't that uncommon.

page 28

Over the Net Volleyball celebrate their success!

4 November Issue

NSS.

Did you do it for a fiver?

Every year, all final year students are asked to fill in the National Student Survey to provide honest feedback on what it has been like to study their course at their institution. The main purpose of the NSS is to help prospective students, their families and advisors to make study choices. Participating institutions and students' unions also use the data to improve the student learning experience.

It’s no secret that over the past six years, Bucks hasn’t performed well at all in the NSS league tables with last year seeing us close to last. So what do those ‘people in their turrets’ (or Vice Chancellors as they’re officially known) plan to do about these low results? I spoke to Shân Wareing, Pro Vice Chancellor Learning & Teaching, to find out her thoughts.

So Shân, Bucks hasn’t been doing very well in the NSS over the past six years and we came dead bottom last year...

First of all, I’m completely committed to improving the student experience here at Bucks and using all our resources and all of our staff to make the student experience as good as possible for every student so that they get the maximum benefit they can from that period of education.

We’ve got some data that actually suggests we’re not doing badly on that according to HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency) data. We recruit more students from widening participation backgrounds than our competitors, we keep more of them for the duration of their degree and they come out with better degrees and better employability than our competitors do. So this is one area where I believe we are doing well although we can always improve.

But how does that affect the NSS? The NSS asks students for their perception of their experience. Bucks has been doing badly compared to the sector, in that we are in the bottom 10%, which all the staff are very disappointed about, and I think a fair number of students also think that position doesn’t reflect the quality of their time at Bucks. I reckon it’s fair to say that Higher Education as a whole is actually doing very well in the NSS – if you were looking at it from another sector, you would be amazed that any area can constantly present such good results (78% of Bucks students say they have a good/very good experience here). But we definitely want to improve

things for the 22% of students who don’t feel they had a good or very good experience, as well as continuing to improve Bucks for all our students. Currently 13 of our courses get results for the NSS in the top quartile for the sector so although clearly our average isn’t where we would like it, some of our courses are performing brilliantly. We need to focus on the ones that are doing less well, and keep on raising the standard.

"we can do more" We’ve made a lot of improvements over the last two years. Marking turnaround times have improved hugely so most students get their feedback in three weeks and almost everyone receives feedback within four weeks unless there’s staff illness or other good reason. The Gateway Library is open 24/7, and you can get a coffee from Rusty’s to see you through a late night assignment crisis. The Big Deal On Course supports all full-time undergraduate students with additional essential course costs, including £50 of print credits, and other support tailored to the course.

These were all specific campaigns led by the Students’ Union on behalf of Bucks students and the University has delivered on all of them. We’ve also started Bucks Temps to support students working while they study, for income and for their future employability, Lynda. com, the online tutorials to help students using new applications, quiet areas and bookable study rooms in the library. This list does set the Bucks experience apart and we’re proud of the developments – I hope students do feel these changes are making things better for them. If we have got this right, it will help us achieve our ambition for reaching the top quartile of the NSS league table, which I think is where many Bucks staff and students would like to see us.

This year, managers are looking at courses which haven’t done well in the NSS, to see whether there’s an issue with the course around resources, the performance of staff, staff understanding what they need to do or staff development. Clearly sometimes there are resource issues due to teaching staff to student ratios but the unevenness of staffing resources, that I am well aware of, usually takes a

long-term plan to sort out rather than a quick fix short-term one. But nevertheless, we can do more.

One of the things we have done over the past twoyears is to invest extensively in staff development.

Students need to learn knowledge while they’re here but some of that knowledge will become obsolete over their lifetime but hopefully what is learned about professionalism, how to develop new skills and analyse and use information will stay with students for their whole life. We [the staff] are here to facilitate that learning process. So as a University, we need to support staff development and staff learning because if you’re trying to model good learning practices to your students, you have to be doing them yourself too.

Take something like technology-enhanced learning, which changes so quickly. Our Learning Technology Ambassadors, which started over a year ago, support students and staff using new technologies.

Do these plans include lecturers leaving the University?

Staff turnover is a fact of life. We’re actually about at the sector average (6% of staff per year]) but staff turnover isn’t always a bad thing. We want new ideas and creativity from staff that are joining us, and you also want members of staff to develop and grow, and sometimes that means new opportunities and increased responsibilities elsewhere. It’s one of the ways new ideas arrive in universities – we don’t want to be isolated from good practice elsewhere. That’s why it’s important to build strong teams, so there’s always continuity, even if individuals change.

Are there any motions within the six-year plan to improve or change upon existing facilities within the University (with facilities being highlighted within an NSS question)?

Totally! I think we’ve done a huge amount already.

We’ve already invested a lot in the library, in resources and in developments like the laptop loan scheme. The refurbished South Wing at High Wycombe is very popular with students and staff, who like the modern looking furniture, and the funky colours. We’ve got state-of-the-art software, simulation suites, and studios. We’ve had staff from other prestigious universities come to look at our facilities and they are absolutely blown away by them. IT has increased the storage space available to students and we’ve made a number of our support services more visible, including the IT helpdesk.

5 Bucks is rising to the challenge of improving students’ experiences, but it’s also great to take a chance to celebrate some of our excellent provision and facilities. And three cheers for the courses which are already in the sector top quartile: • Business and Marketing Management • Public Relations and Marketing Communications • Fine Art • Graphic Arts • Law • Music Management & Studio Production • Air Transport with Commercial Pilot Training • Airline and Airport Management • Early Years Practice; Policing • Health and Social Care • Criminological Psychology • Psychology and Criminology.

All our students enjoy the Big Deal, which is a partnership between the University and the Students’ Union to provide free social and sports activities, and when coupled with the Big Deal On Course support for course costs, what Bucks does to support students is unique in the sector.

or

"We love Bucks" We also managed to catch up with Matt Gilbert, President of Bucks Students’ Union and in response to the results, he added: “It's obviously disappointing to see that the University hasn't gained any ground in overall ranking. We hear what the University says about "change not happening overnight" but we have been at the wrong end of the tables since 2005 – we haven't been looking for overnight success, but nine years is just far too long.

“On behalf of all our members we will continue to work alongside the University's Senior Management Team and other members of staff to help improve our position in the league tables. It's important to mention the positive steps that have been taken. The University have been bold with recent investments in projects like The Big Deal On Course, significant facilities improvements, 24-hour opening, improvements in assignment turnarounds etc, and the positive effect from those initiatives will surely show in future NSS responses. It all adds up but there's still a long way to go – courses need to be relevant as well as challenging, industry links need to real and accessible, placements need to be a reality across the whole institution, let's work together to make that happen.

“We love Bucks, it's been a brilliant place to study and I don't regret my decision to come here for one minute.

We all want everyone to feel like that."

Our Student's Union, Bucks Students’ Union, currently sits in the top 25 students’ unions in the UK according to the National Students' Survey run by Ipsos Mori.

November Issue

Becci Hailey Third Year Music and Live Events Management

6 November Issue

Fashion.

Vanese Maddix

With summer well and truly a distant memory, it's time to get your winter fashion on.

This is by far one of my favourite outfits.

Boyfriend coats are a dream to style up and New Look and Primark are great for purse friendly versions. The thing about them is they have the power to change any outfit around. The one I am wearing is from New Look and I adore the way it gives any outfit a pop of colour. Monochrome and all black outfits are always a popular choice no matter what season it is, so if you do consider getting yourself one of these jackets then remember that it's okay to go for a colour that you wouldn't usually wear. No matter how cold it is, jeans never go out of style. Jeans are so versatile and if you're feeling a bit daring in your choice of outfit then I suggest giving a pair of ripped jeans a go.

It's really not all about dressing in dull colours. Don't get me wrong, autumn and winter are all about keeping warm, but you can have so much fun with what you wear at the same time. I've personally picked three outfits I currently can't get enough of and wanted to write about how I went about styling them. Like many of us ladies, I have these pretty dresses sitting in the back of my wardrobe waiting for the sun to shine for them to make some form of appearance. Layering up your dresses is one of the best things to do. Chunky cardigans were designed for the colder months and look great thrown on with pretty much anything, especially dresses. In the first outfit, I am wearing my current favourite cardigan. It's from Topshop (student discount of course) and it's in one of my favourite winter colours, burgundy. I find that burgundy looks beautiful with any skin tone.Â

Once again, dressing in colour can be quite the challenge but it's so easy to do a full block coloured outfit. This cobalt blue jumper I am wearing in the third and final outfit is perfect to colour block with.

Even when it's cold, it can still be too hot for some knitwear. The great thing about this jumper is.

"easy to do a full block coloured outfit" It's thin but keeps you feeling nice and toasty at the same time. The blue is such a nice statement colour.

The pink jacket is from Matalan. I think since last year pink jackets for women have just become so increasingly popular and once again, they are great for adding a bit of colour to any outfit.Â

These are just a few tips that I like to stick by during autumn and winter. I am in no way a fashion expert but I hope people can take inspiration from something I've said as it's nice to jazz up your style from time to time. For those not too fussed about fashion, there's always adding a nice berry lip colour to your lips for winter or even just choosing a darker shade to paint your nails.

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Sundae, Monday, Happy Days

World Smile Day, National Mad Hatter Day and National Vodka Day – three days that have gone past with not so much as a cheeky grin. Never again shall this happen though as we have researched some of the best days to come until our next Bucks Student is released.

11 November – Scoff mouthful after mouthful of ice cream while having the brilliant excuse of celebrating National Sundae Day! But now for the age old debate; chocolate, strawberry or vanilla?

15 November – Get your Kim-n-Aggie on with National 'Clean Out Your Refrigerator' Day. Empty those shelves, throw all the furry foods out and give all of the insides a quick wipe down.

19 November – Attempt not to kill your competitive flatmates and have National 'Play Monopoly' Day (WARNING – requires a pretty flexible day as the game may go on for many hours).

12 November – Channel your inner Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle with National 'Pizza With The Works Except Anchovies' Day. Cheese, tomato, ham, pepperoni, pineapple (controversial I know), mushrooms, peppers...

16 November – Continue with an almost 80-year-old tradition and play you part in National Button Day. Why not try and repair that shirt or those perfect jeans that have a button that’s slightly too wobbly for your liking.

20 November – No one really knows the origins of National Peanut Butter Fudge Day, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a real thing... Honest.

GET YOUR *NOM* ON

23 November – After all of those sugary foods, why not have a brilliantly antioxidising 'superfruit' during National 'Eat a Cranberry' Day. 26 November – Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood might be a bit busy today so you may as well have a go at baking for yourself this National Cake Day... Or just go to Tesco (other retailers are available).

28 November – Give a bit of gratitude today for National 'You’re-Welcome-giving' Day (we don’t mean the sarcastic “YOU’RE WELCOME” when someone doesn’t say thank you though).

30 November –Because everyone needs a bit of TLC/ catch up with The Walking Dead time, celebrate National 'Stay At Home Because You’re Well' Day.

Student taxis from only £3 Download our app

November Issue

Becci Hailey Third Year Music and Live Events Management

8 November Issue

University.

Your New Vice Chancellor We are delighted to announce that Rebecca Bunting has been appointed as the University’s new Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer. She will take over the leadership of Bucks New University in February, following the retirement of Professor Ruth Farwell.

Rebecca is currently the sole Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Portsmouth. She graduated from Cambridge with an English degree and started her career teaching in London comprehensive schools, transferring to

higher education as a senior lecturer at Roehampton University. Rebecca has a substantial record of senior management roles in universities including Anglia Ruskin and Northampton. She has a strong commitment to social equality and the value of diversity, recognising the transformative nature of higher education which is represented in her strong external profile.

Rebecca said: “I am thrilled to be joining the University and very much look forward to starting my role in early 2015. I am very

keen to meet Council members, staff, students and external colleagues when I arrive and to start discussions about our ambitions for the University over the next few years.”

Matt Gilbert, President of Bucks Students’ Union, added: “This is a very exciting appointment and one that looks to build on the good work that Ruth has completed over the past number of years. The entire Students’ Union is looking forward to meeting with Rebecca to discuss priorities for the future of Bucks.”

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Representation.

November Issue

Represent All unions are formed with one main aim: To be the voice of the group they represent. Working to further the goals of our members is at the heart of what Bucks Students’ Union does. Although the staff at Bucks Students’ Union work towards these goals there is another group who have a huge impact on your education. Student reps: they are the grass roots of what we do and are the Students’ Unions eyes and ears in the class room. Without student reps there would be no student voice in course design, there would be no student voice encouraging change on both a local course and wider University level, and there would be no formal way for students to communicate with the University. Luckily at Bucks we have some great reps and this is just a small selection of the changes they have helped to create.

A student rep from the Sports Management Department has had an impact, feeding back to their Programme Committee Meeting about the sports kit, which was provided as part of their course, not being particularly flattering for women. The Sports Department along with the student rep have met with a number of suppliers to find sports kits that can be provided with a woman’s fit.

A Design and Craft student rep feed back that their Product Design course wanted to make use of the glass blowing facilities that we have here at Bucks.

The Product Design course had glass blowing incorporated into their timetable, it was enjoyed by all.

Not forgetting Uxbridge, we have had a number of very active reps bringing up things like academics putting PowerPoint slides up on Blackboard in a timely manner, the issue of parity between the groups both in terms of teaching and assessment, and getting more scenario based sessions in the simulation rooms.

Across many departments students wanted microwaves in each of the cafe areas across the University so that they can heat up their own food.

There are now microwaves in each of the cafes Beats, Rusty's and Pulse. Another popular thing for reps to feed back on is three week turnaround of assignments. After some confusion around the timings over Christmas the “three working week turnaround of assignments” has been more successful, showing that communication itself can cause issues.

Many student reps asked for their field trips to be cheaper. With The Big Deal On Course some student groups get part of their course trips funded by the University. Other course groups get text books and others get equipment and materials paid for. This is all on a course by course basis. There has been lots of praise for academics and some very positive comments about industry professionals coming in and giving guest lectures to help impart their up-to-the-minute knowledge.

The other most talked about bits of best practice have been some of the trips and study tours that you have been on. With the reduced cost to each student hopefully more can attend these trips making the most out of your courses.

We have just had a very successful student rep training session where almost 70 elected reps turned up in order to learn how to be a good student rep. Hopefully they will be putting that into practice over the next few months.

Being a student rep doesn’t end there. All three of the Students’ Union Sabbatical Officers have been student reps during their time studying at Bucks, so if you’re looking for a leg up over other candidates in the Sabbatical elections, maybe you should start representing your students now.

10 November Issue

University.

Lee Stevenson-Rose Third Year Music and Live Events Management

To help with the growth of the University’s Faculty of Society and Health, a complete re-design and refurbishment of three floors of South Wing has now been completed at the High Wycombe Campus of Bucks New University. The South Wing, which was originally built in the 1960’s, underwent the £4.5 million remodelling to bring it up to date and to offer a facility with more informal spaces for students as well as bespoke learning and teaching areas.

Student feedback played a major role in the design of the new South Wing, with wider corridors, more seating to create social spaces and more power/data points in order to create spaces you feel comfortable to work in on the go.

The Faculty, led by Pro Vice Chancellor Dr Alison Chambers, has key contracts with Health Education North West London and Health Education Thames Valley which helps in educating over 480 nurses per year in a wide range of fields. In addition to these nurses the Faculty also has a cohort of Operating Department Practitioners, which then increases its student population to over 1,300 undergraduates. The numbers alone show the importance of the re-design.

Dr Chambers said: “This significant investment in the Faculty of Society and Health provides us with additional state-of-the-art health science simulation suites and new teaching facilities for all our students.

These new facilities place us in a strong position to respond to future opportunities as well as supporting our exciting plans for growth” The refurbishment goes a lot further than the aesthetics.

An eight-bay hospital ward has also been built and has been kitted out with the latest in interactive medical and teaching aids, which includes both child and adult simulation mannequins. Provisions are also in place for a fully functional operating theatre and recovery room to be built in the future.

Professor Ruth Farwell, Vice Chancellor of Bucks New University said: “Unveiling this substantially enhanced facility is a great start to the new academic year and a huge benefit to both staff and students. The building has been refurbished to provide inspiring flexible space for learning and teaching for all our students as well as specific state-of-the-art facilities for our nurse education work.

“The student experience is a priority for the University and this investment is an excellent example of our ongoing commitment to provide the best possible experience for our students whilst they study at Bucks New University” So why not visit the newly refurbished South Wing when you have a spare 10 minutes and catch a first glimpse at the future of Bucks New University.

South for the Winter

11 University is getting more and more expensive and so is everything to do with it.

Nowadays people tell you to pick an accredited course that will help your career. I know I heard a lot about not picking a ‘fluffy’ subject. You get asked constantly ‘What are you going to get out of this?’, ‘Are you ready for that next step?’ and you just want to yell “Yeah, of course I am!”

So you start the year, maybe go for a few drinks, go to a party or two? Sure that’s all part of being a student. But missing the odd lecture because of a monumental hangover can turn into sleeping in because you can or maybe loss of motivation to even bother. You could look around you and see people that struggle even when they go to lectures. You may hear the stories of people failing due to lack of attendance and you think ‘Ah that won’t happen to me.’ But it could.

When does it kick in you that should study? When does that wake-up call smash your mental door down yelling at you to get a grip and take this thing seriously? As soon as the academic year starts, or how about a few weeks in when you get given an assignment? Or perhaps when you get that assignment back? Of course it depends on whether you got a good grade or not…right?

"uni is a big step up from a-levels" You listen to lecturers and fellow students tell you that 'uni is a big step up from a-levels.' Maybe you believe them, maybe you don’t. But I know from experience it’s all true. They don’t tell you these things to scare you and neither do I. We all reiterate these well-worn words to give you the early nudge that you need. However I also know that you may heed the words people say but then feel it doesn’t make a difference to how you do the work. You feel lost or just downright annoyed that you aren’t maybe excelling at your chosen degree like you wanted, like you expected. My advice to those of you out there feeling like that is this: don’t get bogged down in the losses or in the failings, learn from them. Build on tutor advice and make your next bit of work the best it can be. I know that’s easier said than done sometimes though.

The truth is that wake-up call could happen at any time. Some get it when they look at the grade weighting for a module, some get it when they get their first few bits of work back. Some get it when they see how different uni is from college or sixth-form.

I know that for some it happens when you get that letter with end of year grades on it. Whatever is on that paper either drives you forward or gives you the kick up the back side that you need to buckle down and get work done.

Let this now be yet another wake-up call those of you reading this article. University was your choice. Now make the best out of that choice.

November Issue

Katy Carson Foundation Animal Welfare and Behaviour

12 November Issue

University.

Becci Hailey Third Year Music and Live Events Management

Enterprise Festival

"The country needs people who can form their own businesses, and that is exactly what is coming out of Bucks New University" Monday 3 November marked the launch of Bucks’ Enterprise Festival. Students were treated to inspiring and motivational talks from: Alex Mills, The Apprentice 2013; Sir Stuart Hampson, ex-Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership and Chairman of The Crown Estate for Her Majesty The Queen; Alexis Knox, celebrity stylist to Jesse J, Rita Ora and Miley Cyrus; and Bumni Mojekwu exEastenders actress.

Vice Chancellor Prof Ruth Farwell welcomed everyone to the event by giving very complimentary introductions to each of our guests before a quick personal introduction by each speaker, followed by a Q&A with students probing some very interesting and business focused questions. Student band 'Cheese on Roast' showcased their skills by covering “I need a dollar” for the crowd, with the University’s own Dance Society also performing.

Sir Stuart Hampson commented “The country needs people who can form their own businesses, and that is exactly what is coming out of Bucks New University”.

Celebrity stylist Alexis Knox reiterated the message “Don’t give up. If you want to go freelance or create your own business, just do it!”

So all of you business entrepreneurs, have you handed in your entries for the Start Up Live Business Concept Competition? Start Up Live is a business idea

competition exclusively for undergraduate, postgraduate students and Alumni of Bucks New University. We want to find passionate entrepreneurs with exciting, imaginative business ideas and give them the chance to pitch for the money and support their need to make it happen. Students will have the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges.

Anyone wishing to participate should visit the Enterprise Bucks site enterprisebucks.co.uk to read a bit more about the process and find the application form.

Far more people turned up to the Enterprise Festival Launch than Enterprise Bucks ever thought would attend and there were people queuing to get into the room, so if you fancy joining in with some of the events, be sure you pre-book!

Of course, within this month is Activities Week - commencing on November 17.

There are plenty of activities from the fun, such as bubble football and laser tag, to the career driven, such as “Finding jobs at the Careers Fair” and “Managing your workload”. Make sure you take a look at what’s on offer on the Bucks Students’ Union website (bucksstudentsunion.org) and double check the booking procedure for the particular event you want to be part of.

SimpLeeSoup Cooking and Curry!

The theme of this edition of SimpLee Cooking is fast and easy. The two chosen recipes are perfect to serve to your flatmates as the cold nights draw in and winter approaches. First of all we have a simple speedy soup which consists of only three steps! The second recipe is a real crowd pleaser, chicken pilaf.

This recipe may be simple but it definitely packs a flavour punch and will keep your flatmates coming back for seconds.

"When you have a good stock, you can make a good soup."

Chicken Pilaf (serves 4)

Speedy Soup (serves 5) Ingredients

−−2 tins of baked beans −−3 tins of chopped tomatoes −−3 carrots

−−Paprika −−250ml chicken or vegetable stock

Method

−−Pour all ingredients into a blender and blend until desired consistency is achieved

Ingredients

−−350g Basmati rice −−1 onion, finely diced −−400g chicken fillets,

−−1 tbsp korma curry

−−400g frozen mixed

−−Salt and pepper

cut into small chunks veg

powder

−−Half a tsp ground cinnamon

Method

−−Pour into a pan and cook on a medium heat for

−−Cook the rice according to the instructions on

−−Serve in bowls with plenty of bread for dipping.

−−Cook chicken and onions on a medium to high

20 minutes

the packet

heat for 6-8 minutes

−−Stir in the veg, curry powder and cinnamon and cook for a further 4 minutes

−−Drain the rice, add to the chicken and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, season and serve.

In the next edition we will be bringing you our favourite Christmas recipes, both sweet and savoury to get you in the festive spirit. So get ready because Christmas is well and truly here.

November Issue

Lee Stevenson-Rose Third Year Music and Live Events Management

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Cooking.

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Week 8 10 Nov-16 Nov

Week 9 17 Nov-23 Nov

Monday 10

Tuesday 11

Tuesday 18

4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 Barefoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

All night: Desperado’s, Cubanisto - £2.50 Until midnight: Tequila - £1.50

Wednesday 12

4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 | Bare

Wednesday 19

volleyball takeover Until midnight: Snakebite & black - £1.80 | Morgans Spiced Rum & mixer - £2 | Hooch - 2 for £5 All night: Radlers low alcohol Lager -£1.50 Bottled water - £1 | Any draught soft drink (pint) - £1

Until midnight: Snakebite & black - £1.80 | Morgans Spiced Rum & mixer - £2 | Hooch - 2 for £5 All night: Radlers low alcohol Lager -£1.50 Bottled water - £1 | Any draught soft drink (pint) - £1

Thursday 13

Friday 14

Saturday 22

Offers TBC.

Until Midnight: Snakebite & black - £1.80 | Budweiser draught £2 Hooch/Corona/Cubista - 2 for £5 All night: Smirnoff Vodka & Relentless - £2 | Bombs - £1.50 Bols Cocktails - £2.50 - £3.50 | Radlers low alcohol Lager - £1.50 Bottled Water - £1 | Any draught soft drink (pint) - £1

Saturday 15

Sunday 16

Tea Pots of Long Island Iced Tea - £5

4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 Barefoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

Until midnight: Carlsberg - £2 | Gaymers - £2 Smirnoff Vodka Relentless - £2 All night: Radlers low alcohol Lager - £1 | Bottled Water - £1 Any draught soft drink (pint) - £1

4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 Barefoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

Drinks prices change depending on what is popular.

Tuesday 25

England vs Scotland Room 2

efoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

Thursday 20

4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 | Barefoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

Wednesday26

Bar Open Friday 21

law and mooting Until midnight: Snakebite & black - £1.80 | Morgans Spiced Rum & mixer - £2 | Hooch - 2 for £5 All night: Radlers low alcohol Lager -£1.50 Bottled water - £1 | Any draught soft drink (pint) - £1

STAND UP FOR LABOUR

Thursday 27

Friday 28

4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 Barefoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

Saturday 29

Until Midnight: Snakebite & black - £1.80 | Budweiser draught £2 Hooch/Corona/Cubista - 2 for £5 All night: Smirnoff Vodka & Relentless - £2 | Bombs - £1.50 Bols Cocktails - £2.50 - £3.50 | Radlers low alcohol Lager - £1.50 Bottled Water - £1 | Any draught soft drink (pint) - £1

Until Midnight: Snakebite & black - £1.80 | Budweiser draught £2 Hooch/Corona/Cubista - 2 for £5 All night: Smirnoff Vodka & Relentless - £2 | Bombs - £1.50 Bols Cocktails - £2.50 - £3.50 | Radlers low alcohol Lager - £1.50 Bottled Water - £1 | Any draught soft drink (pint) - £1

Sunday 23

Sunday 30

FINALE 4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 Barefoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

Offers TBC.

4 pint pitchers of Carlsberg/Stongbow/Coors Light/Snakebite - £7 Barefoot Wine (75cl bottle) - £7

November Issue

Wycombe Wanderers vs Burton Albion

Monday 24

17

Week 10 24 Nov-30 Nov

Monday 17

18 November Issue

RAG. Danielle Pilcher Third Event and Festival Management

OXJAM PRESENTS

DUBSTRATEGY PHIZIX &

TROLLEY SNATCHA

MARCUS NASTY

22.11.14

10PM 3AM

In October 2014, a series of citywide mini-festivals took place in over 55 locations across the UK to raise money for Oxfam GB. Approximately 2,750 bands and acts took part and performed to an audience of more than 60,000 people collectively!

At Bucks Students’ Union, we had the opportunity to host our own two-part Music Festival, featuring some of the best acoustic talent from Bucks! The first half of the event kicked off at 10am with a cake-auctioning, raffle selling team, eager to raise awareness of Oxfam GB and the difference they are making across the globe! Our outdoor acoustic stage was managed by the Musicians Society and featured great performances from Rob (The Purple Lights) and Eddie Pocock.

The evening, hosted by Suck My Acoustic, featured various artists through out the night, including siblings Alex-Jae Stuart John and Jasmine Stuart, first year student Jessica Kwamin and the extremely talented Natalia Ruszczuk!

With over 20 volunteers and 15 artists, Bucks Oxjam raised £382.36 in just eighthours of live music! On behalf of the Oxjam team and Bucks Students' Union, we would like to thank all students who helped us to raise funds for Oxfam GB, especially those from Musicians Society and Bucks Event Soc who supplied us with such committed and enthusiastic volunteers throughout the day and evening!

For anyone interested in getting involved with Oxfam fundraising this year, please email volunteering@bucks.ac.uk to find out more about the volunteering opportunities at Bucks’ Students Union.

Tom Hancock

Hi guys, firstly could you please briefly introduce yourselves - just who are the Mariachis?

The Mariachis are an authentic five piece Mariachi band playing traditional Mariachi music and other Mexican and Latin rhythms but more recently we've been playing classic pop songs and have added our Mariachi twist to each song.

We are a fun loving group of guys who want to do nothing else but bring fun and happiness into people's lives with our music. The members of the band are: Salvador Jimenez (leader and guitarron player) from Guadalajara, Mexico; Roberto Jimenez (main English singer and vihuela player) from Mexico City; Limber Cotrina (accordionist) from Santa Cruz, Bolivia; Farman Murillo (guitarist) from Pereira, Colombia; and Juan Rojas (trumpet player) from Santigo, Chile.

And how did a group of South Americans come to be the UK's top Mariachi band?

We're simply the best! No, really, we've been playing for many years at various events around the country and sometimes venturing to other lands with our music.

Word of mouth took us to more and more events, more people got to know us and we got lucky after auditioning for the Doritos campaign. That obviously took us to another level again.

Everyone will know you from the TV adverts, but you've also performed in front of the likes of the Royal Family and at Wireless Festival - what's been your proudest achievement to date?

We have played at so many events and to so many wonderful people. We would say we had a lot of fun playing for and with the Hollywood legend, Jack Black. He is a true gentleman and we were lucky enough to have spent a whole day with him but probably our proudest event was headlining the Avalon stage at The Glastonbury Festival. That was amazing.

And what are your thoughts about playing here at Bucks New University? We wouldn't imagine you've heard of High Wycombe!

We've played at Bucks New University before and had a ball - yes, High Wycombe, that little place - we know it well. University concerts are our favourite type of events because the students are so receptive to us…..and they're all mad. We are really looking forward to playing there for you.

You've covered everything from the Human League to Nirvana, quite an eclectic mix! What's been your favourite song to cover and why?

We love all the songs we cover for different reasons but our favourite is probably "Whatever you want" by Status Quo. Apart fron the fact that we love Status Quo, we love doing this because we've put a real Aztec rhythm called "Jarabe" to the song.

People also love the introduction because they don't know what's coming, then they all scream when we go into it. That makes us feel good.

And can we expect any new covers at the upcoming show?

We are always working on new covers all the time and have a lot more up our sleeves… our lips are sealed for now.

What's your favourite thing about the UK? Funnily enough, we like the weather. Yes, it's true - we all hate the heat. Our favourite thing… has the be the people. Such a diverse and multicultural country with very warm hearted, friendly and fun loving people.

And finally, to put you on the spot, a sombrero or a good old-fashioned British bowler hat?

Difficult one…we'd have to say though a sombrero. We'd all look like boiled eggs in bowler hats hahaha.

November Issue

Bring the Party to the Party!

19

Interview.

20 November Issue

Coming soon.

Dan Earl

Dec Sam 9 Brookes Folk and blues man Sam Brookes graces the Bucks Students' Union venue stage for Decembers, Suck My Acoustic event.

Following high profile support slots with Joan Armatrading, Newton Faulkner and Ray Davies in support of crowd funded debut album ‘Kairos’. Heralded by The Sunday Times as ‘Musically, he excels at propulsive, narratively rich folk, delivered in a soaring, clear-as-a-bell singing voice that makes every word of his evocative, detailed lyrics count’, Sam Brookes has been performing to ever increasing audiences and captivating people all over the country. Listing influences including Laura Marling, James Taylor and Tim Buckley, his music is a powerful and provocative body of work coupled with poetic thoughtful lyrical content that make him a must see act.

You'll love if you like: Newton Faulkner, Lucy Rose and Pete Roe

Movember Finale As many of you may know, this is the month of Movember. Movember is a charity created to raise money and awareness for men’s health issues.

For the past few years the Students' Union have been putting on events for this, and this year is no different. On Monday we had our launch night which had a great turn out, amazing live music, raffles and free pizza! We have managed to make just short of £500 so far, and are immensely grateful to everyone who has got involved. However the month is not yet over! So gentlemen please grow your tache’s, and ladies why not think about your own unique way of raising some funds and attention?

There will be a finalé event on the 29 of November, and we have some amazing prizes up for grabs. So follow us on twitter (@BNUMovember) or keep your eyes peeled for more details from the Students' Union. Hope to see you at the end of the month! In the meantime, keep checking yourselves.

29 Nov

Mo Bros. #BNUMovember Sophia Twine

21 November Issue

D u B P h I z ix N O V E M B E R 22

The creator of a new style of Drum and Bass music that fuzes influences from all corners of the globe, Manchester based Drum & Bass producer Dub Phizix began his obsession with music over 20 years ago. By ten years into his career, Dub Phizix was an accomplished producer having made music in a variety of styles for MTV, BBC and Nokia. Forward to today and Dub Phizix is releasing music on his own SkeptaSonic label and other respected outlets such as Exit, Soul:R and Critical, with Mixmag calling his

music 'Essential material'. His remix portfolio is also impressive with reworks for Atlantic Records, Hospital Records, Panjabi MC, Sizzla, and more. Alongside his partner in crime Strategy, Dub Phizix is responsible for the monster tracks: Marka and Buffalo Charge. This duo’s unique style makes them firm favourites for both Drum & Bass and mixed genre stages at the biggest clubs and festivals going.

What sets Dub Phizix apart from most other drum’n’bass acts, is that his

music has great crossover appeal and is played nightly by a wide range of high profile DJs such as David Rodigan, Skream, Toddla T, Shy FX, Mary Anne Hobbs, Zane Lowe, Andy C, Chase & Status, Mista Jam, Goldie, S.P.Y and many more.

Over the past few years Dub Phizix has been traversing the world and taking his unique sound to all six continents, including shows across India, Singapore, Hong Kong, Brazil, Canada, South Africa, Australia and

New Zealand. He is also one of the most in demand DJ’s across the UK and has played in nearly every major city in Europe with appearances at major festivals including Dimensions, Outlook, Sun and Bass, Boomtown and more.

And on the 22 November you’ll be able to catch him doing his thing at the last Unisex of the year alongside other special guests, Trolley Snatcha & Marcus Nasty (Rinse FM). For event details please visit: unisexevents.com

22 November Issue

Advice.

Depression

Lizzie Farrell

Depression at university isn’t as uncommon as the sea of smiling student faces would have you believe. University can get on top of just about anybody, one thing is for sure, it is not something to be faced alone.

• Decreased energy. As students we may

The amount of students seeking help and advice for depression has more than doubled in the past few years. Granted, depression and mental health can be extremely difficult to talk about, and challenging to understand if you have not encountered it before. It’s important to realise how talking about it and not isolating yourself can help. There are many degrees of depression, ranging in intensity from very mild to severe.

healthy diet is essential for general wellbeing. Depression can interfere with your regular eating patterns.

People suffering mild depression may feel fed up, sad or low for a while. While simple tasks seem to be a lot harder and increasingly less rewarding, gradually, over time these feelings will lift.

When suffering from severe depression it is likely you will feel very down and unable to cope with everyday activities, such as going to lectures or socialising with friends. These feelings are long lasting and can make you feel extremely hopeless.

It can be hard to tell whether what you’re feeling is a normal reaction to a period of stress or whether it is something more.

The best thing it is important to catch these things before they get too bad. There are a lot of signs that if persistent, can be a red light to seek help.

not have a normal sleeping pattern but if you find yourself unable to maintain your usual activity levels, depression may be using up your energy.

• Appetite or weight changes. A regular,

More information on the signs of depression can be found at studentsagainstdepression.org If you are feeling depressed, you’re not alone. Research from NUS shows that 20% of students consider themselves to have some kind of mental health issue, also showing that the amount of students seeking counselling on campus has risen by 33% since 2008. With university life often exaggerated and overhyped with people living ‘the best years of your life’ when for some, this is far from their reality.

It’s not right to assume that the fun side of university life should buffer the many emotional strains students face daily.

There are many ways of seeking help if you think you may be depressed. Talking about it can be a huge release. Even talking to friends or family members can help, Bucks Students' Union offer an advice service if you need somebody to talk to.

Email suadvice@bucks.ac.uk or visit bucksstudentunion.org/advice for more information.

"you’re not alone" • Persistently anxious, sad or generally

low mood. Feeling lonely and empty over a course of several weeks, making simple tasks a challenge.

• Loss of interest. Depression thrives

on ‘bored’ attitudes and creates a sense of meaninglessness, making you lose interest in things you once found fun and rewarding.

Counselling can help you understand the roots of your depression and make sense of how you are feeling. The University offer a counselling service; they can be reached at counselling@bucks.ac.uk or can be found on the first floor of the North Wing.

Don’t be afraid to seek help and remember you are never as alone as you feel.

"20% of students considered themselves to have some kind of mental health issue"

On the week commencing the 20 October 2014, the first of the two fundraising weeks for CoppaFeel took place. Our Uni Boob Team has been hard at work organising some incredible events that will raise money for this brilliant cause.

CoppaFeel is a breast cancer awareness charity that focuses on stamping out the late detection of breast cancer. There are Uni Boob Teams all over the country that are running around their campuses trying to get people to know what normal feels like for them, so that when you might feel something a little out of the ordinary, you can tell.

November Issue

Sophie Lynch Third Year Event and Festival Managment

The fundraising week kicked off with a Boob Bake Sale held in The Lounge, and a pink lemonade stand was set up in Beats. This included lots of delicious cakes made by the team, including a whopping seven tiered rainbow boob cake! I am pleased to announce that this Boob Bake Sale made almost £170, beating our official target for the week in just a day!

our beloved Frat House Blow Zone. There was also an anti-burn book, where many of you took the time to write a compliment about your friends boobs. Not forgetting our fabulous cocktails; ‘she Disarrano even go here’, and ‘you can’t sip with us’. I am over the moon to be able to say that this event raised our total to almost £600.

As most of you will know, our main event was our Mean Girls themed Takeover on Wednesday 29 October. This fun-filled night included games such as bobbing for doughnuts, a wet t-shirt competition and we had the brilliantly named ‘Boob Zone’ to replace

I would like to say a massive thank you to all of the brilliant sports teams for wearing pink and donating a pound to CoppaFeel at your training days, every donation really does help!

We will remember

LGBT Fellowship

West Herts and Borders Methodist Circuit

Act of Rememberance Tuesday 11 November 2014 from 10.45am Two minutes silence at 11am S.1 (Old Boardroom) Refreshments afterwards Further information MFC Team: multifaithchaplaincy@bucks.ac.uk

23

RAG.

For lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, friends, family and allies.

Welcome whether you’re a Methodist, Christian of another denomination, or have little/no/undecided faith.

We meet monthly on the second Sunday, 2pm for 2.30pm until 4pm, at Berry Lane Methodist Church WD3 7HJ For more info and details of next meeting contact Rachel & Sarah lgbchristianbook@tiscali.co.uk If you need help with transport, email: multifaithchaplaincy@bucks.ac.uk call: 01494 603 024 / 07544 750 793

24 November Issue

Health.

Keep calm and get tested at our “pop up clinic” say Bucks Public Health team One in five people who have HIV are unaware of the fact. Like the wartime mantra of ‘keep calm and carry on’ Buckinghamshire County Council are encouraging people to ‘keep calm and get tested’. With the new pinprick HIV test, it's never been easier to do, and anyone who may have been at risk of infection is encouraged to take up the opportunity to find out their HIV status.

There will be free testing during HIV testing week (24-30 November) at the Bucks New University student union on Tuesday 23 November between 2pm to 5pm.

To make this as easy as possible, Buckinghamshire's Terrence Higgins Trust HIV service will be offering advice as well as testing at the pop-up clinic.

Testing week is also an opportunity to think about other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and NHS sexual health advisors from Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust will be also be on hand to offer advice and on-the-spot or take-home chlamydia testing and condoms.

Find out more about all of this atn sexualhealthbucks.nhs.uk, where live information in the run up to, and throughout the campaign will be posted. Alternatively, follow @PHBucks on twitter.

Save money, lose weight and feel better by signing up for Dry January 2015.

Could you give up alcohol for a month? This year, during Alcohol Awareness week (17-23 November), Alcohol Concern and Buckinghamshire County Council are encouraging people to sign-up for Dry January. The aim is to get 500 people in Buckinghamshire signed up for 2015. Can you take part in the challenge?

How many Bucks New Uni students and staff can we get involved? Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol causes weight gain, fatigue, headaches and also has numerous long-term health risks such as liver disease, heart disease and certain cancers. Taking part in Dry January is a great opportunity to have a really healthy start to 2015.

Alcohol is a big expense for students, with the average student spending £84 per month on alcohol. Try out our calculator (available in the link below) to see how much you could save by taking part in Dry January.

You can sign-up for Dry January by visiting buckscc.gov.uk/dryjanuary . The website has lots of hints and tips on how to stay dry, mocktail recipes, details of local support and also has links to apps and unit calculators that can help you keep track of your drinking.

We would love to hear from those at Bucks who are taking part in the challenge.

Please tweet us @PHBucks. For further information in the lead-up to Dry January follow @PHBucks, visit buckscc.gov.uk/dryjanuary or find us on facebook - facebook.com/DryJanuary

To Buy or Not to Buy Money does not grow on trees.

As students most of us know this far too well. From experience I would say the best tip would be to only spend what you can afford, as I found this out the hard way.

During my first year here at Bucks New University I kept increasing my overdraft at every opportunity, which meant by the end of the year I was thousands of pounds in debt.

Here are some tips to live by during your time here at Bucks: Food • Let’s start with food – many students come to university without any experience of fending for themselves, which can make food shopping very difficult.

• Buy in bulk with your flatmates • Never shop on an empty stomach • Create a cooking rota with your flatmates – take it in turns to cook meals, not only will the types of food you eat vary, you will also broaden your cooking horizons.

• Freeze any leftovers. Even the smallest leftovers can be used to create tasty new meals.

• It may be difficult but try to resist the urge to buy a greasy kebab after a night out; instead, cook something before you go out. There’s also the option of leftovers from dinner too!

Transport Transport is something that affects many of us, whether it’s travelling to and from University or visiting family back home. It all adds up very quickly and before you know it you’ll be stuck without even the money to get the bus home.

• If you haven’t already, purchase a Young Persons Railcard for £26 a year. With this card you will save 1/3 on all rail journeys.

• When travelling by train always try to split your journey up rather than buying one ticket. Train travel can be a lot cheaper using this method.

• Work out how many times a week you use a bus, it might make sense to buy a weekly student bus pass.

• Do you really need a car at university? Weigh up the pros and cons and decide what works best for you.

• If all else fails, walk!

Shopping All students need a little bit of retail therapy every now and then, just to relieve the stress of exams and coursework.

• Shop online and compare prices before you buy, you’ll be surprised at the savings you can make.

• Don’t be embarrassed to visit second hand and vintage stores; there are always bargains to be had.

• Get an NUS card, a one-year card will cost you £12. You can save a little bit of money by buying a three year card for £32. A full list of current NUS discounts is available at nus.org.uk/en/nus-extra/ • Most importantly always, always, always ask for a student discount.

Extra tips • You don’t have to pay for an expensive TV package with Sky or Virgin; most of your favourite shows are available to watch online for free (as long as you have a TV license).

• Why not try free software such as OpenOffice?

• Don’t wait until the last minute to buy your Christmas presents, buy them months in advance when the prices are more reasonable (and when you have more money).

• Remember to re-apply for next year’s Student Finance before the end of the summer term.

• Last but not least, budget (this has always been my problem).

I’m not going to lie and say my money problems have now gone away, or that I now budget, but this is one reason you should listen to these tips. I have made the mistakes many students have and will make, but you don’t have to.

Remember, help is always at hand from the Advice Centre. To get in contact with the Advice Centre just call 01494 603 016 for High Wycombe or 01494 605 180 for Uxbridge. Alternatively you can drop in for a chat, the Advice Centre is located on the ground floor of North Wing in Wycombe and in room 1.02 for Uxbridge or you could always send an email to suadvice@bucks.ac.uk

November Issue

Lee Stevenson-Rose Third Year Music and Live Events Management

25

Advice.

26

Politics.

November Issue

These articles reflects the views of the authors and may not represent those of Bucks Students' Union or any of its affiliates.

David Williams QC

I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues By the time this is read I imagine ‘Freshers’ Fortnight’ will seem a distant but pleasant memory as the daily grind of study kicks in. For me and my colleagues in the Wycombe Labour Party we were struck by the enthusiasm, interest and political engagement of so many of the students who stopped to have a chat with us at the Freshers’ Fair on 25 September. Whilst I am prepared to admit defeat in the unofficial ‘signed-up’ competition we had with the stall next door - ‘Student Lock-In’ (like a workers lock-in but more fun I suspect) – we felt we had achieved what we set out to do. We had many conversations with students about Individual Electoral Registration (IER) which was one of our three main reasons for attending the Fair as many students might have been unaware of the fact that universities can no longer do block registrations of their students.

I have to confess when we started to think about attending the Fair back in June I was surprised to be told by the national Labour Students that there wasn’t a Student Branch at Bucks. With courses like performing arts, nursing, social work, law and education how can that be I asked myself? Along with raising awareness of IER one of our aims was identify those students who were already members but were moving into the area or who were Labour sympathisers and who were interested in joining the Party. Second box ticked – we signed up some new members and hopefully have the core of a Labour Students Society. And we heard about the concerns of the students; student loans and the debt burden they would carry, the cost of living, the shortage of and expense of housing and graduate unemployment.

We also met a group of young men who it turned out were the Buckinghamshire New University Conservative Society and agreed it would be a good thing for student engagement in politics, for turnout and democracy in Wycombe if a Labour Students Society were born out of the Freshers’ Fair. Whilst I disagree profoundly with the pernicious and divisive policies that the Conservative Party are pursuing I agree completely with Mr Laister and Mr Bull that democracy is best served by constructive debate on the issues. There is nothing that puts people off politics more than ‘politicians’ engaging in petty personal issues; playing the man not the ball. I am therefore genuinely disappointed to read Mr Laister’s and Mr Bull’s piece in the ‘Society’ section [Issue 48, p.24] and to see them at such an early stage in what I hope may be long careers in politics ‘spinning’ for all their worth. If Jean-Luke genuinely interprets my email as a smear he has much to learn and will need to develop a much thicker and less sensitive skin.

Happily I know our local council candidates will not be engaging in such antics. Whether 18 (like Jack) or 80 (like Molly) our council candidates and I will be pursuing a constructive campaign; raising and debating our policies for making Wycombe and the UK a fairer, more equal and tolerant society, a society where wealth and privilege pay their fair share and where people come first. We will be arguing for more investment in the NHS paid for by closing tax loopholes, a mansion tax and a levy on the tobacco industry. We will be arguing for an education system that provides equality of opportunity to the many. We will be arguing for more protection for tenants and for the use of the proceeds of sale of council houses to build more social housing – not offices and sports centres as Tory-led WDC have used the £18m they received from the sale of their housing stock. We will be arguing for action to address the cost of living crisis; from an energy price freeze through to a minimum wage of £8 per hour.

But through all this we will be encouraging people to believe that casting their vote is essential to effect change and essential to democracy; it is what the suffragettes campaigned for in the early twentieth century, what our armed forces fought for in the Second World War and is a fundamental right that tens of millions of people across the world are still denied. I very much hope and encourage Messrs Bull and Laister to engage with me and Labour4Wycombe in that sort of constructive campaign.

Indeed I would be very happy to cooperate to arrange a political debate at Bucks to promote student engagement in politics.

For any student with an interest in politics whether Labour, Conservative, Green or otherwise Bucks New University is very fortunate to have such an active Students’ Union and such a dynamic and proactive Societies and Volunteering Coordinator in Lauren Troiano and I would encourage any student who feels the urge to get involved to contact her at lauren.troiano@ bucks.ac.uk.

27

Jean-Luke Laister Second Year Accounting and Finance

Blue Skies Ahead With the rise of smaller parties such as UKIP and the Green Party, the decline in the Liberal Democrats and the neck and neck polls for the Conservatives and Labour; the upcoming election appears to be one of the most interesting in a generation.

Moving on to David Williams’ talk of student, local and national problems, such as graduate unemployment, the cost of living, the shortage of affordable housing, student loans and the NHS. These problems are nothing more than the spin he accused us of himself. As university students, you won’t need to be reminded of the importance of getting your facts right, something David has missed himself.

Since 2010 the Conservatives have overseen a rise of 1.8 million more people in work, meaning that more people are in work than ever before in the history of our country. More people with the security of a pay packet to support themselves and save for their future family. For those who choose a more hands on approach to education, the Conservative Party has also pledged to create 3 million more apprenticeships, on top of the almost two million they have already created.

On the cost of living, through this government’s Long Term Economic Plan, the United Kingdom is due to grow faster than any other major advanced economy; beating the likes of the United States, Germany and Japan.

The plan is building a stronger, healthier economy, which has meant that this Government has the economic backing to take those on the lowest income completely out of taxation. This means that those working fulltime on the minimum wage keep every penny of what they earn and are free to spend it as they see fit.

On affordable housing, the Conservative’s Help to Buy scheme has already helped over 50,000 young people and families across the country achieve their dream of owning their own home. The popularity of this scheme is giving building companies the confidence to build new houses and construction has grown by 34% since the scheme came into effect. This boost to construction has helped to create several new jobs, with the number of workers being taken on in the housing sector increasing at the fastest rate in 17 years.

On student loans, the Governments reformation of loans means that students don’t have to pay back anything until they are earning £21,000 or more. Meaning that you as a graduate will keep more of your pay cheque, when you need it most. This means that if you leave university and find a job that pays £22,000 per year, you will only pay £90 back annually. This would have been £458 under Labour’s previous plan. Then if after 30 years your debt is not settled, it is written off altogether.

Finally, on the NHS, despite the challenge of cutting the record deficit left by the last Labour Government, the Conservatives have protected the NHS by piling in £12.7 billion in funding, something Labour actually opposed. The Labour Health Spokesman, Andy Burnham, in fact said it was “irresponsible to increase the NHS spending”. In this parliament, the number of doctors have increased by 4,321 and there are 1,326 more midwives than under Labour. Compare this to the NHS run by Labour in Wales, where citizens are travelling across the border into England because of the superior service and drugs funding.

The BNU Conservative Society would also like to congratulate 18-year-old Jack, one of the Labour candidates for Wycombe District Council. It is fantastic to see that Wycombe Labour have taken our advice on board from the last edition of The Bucks Student newspaper and selected a young candidate of their own to run in next May’s local elections. We would now challenge them to match our five young candidates, so we can give the young people and students of Wycombe the voice on local issues that they deserve.

In the interest of fairness, I would like to notify David that the BNU Conservative Society are not “a group of young men”. We would like to take this opportunity to notify him of our outgoing Treasurer and current Social Secretary, Isabelle Pearson, a founding member of the society who has contributed greatly since its formation last year, something she achieved on merit and not on gender alone. To close, we like to express our gratitude for Mr Williams responding to us. This clearly demonstrates democracy in action, something, as David has mentioned, many of our citizens fought and died for. This is of the utmost importance as we pay our respects this Remembrance Day, 100 years since the start of the First World War. Democracy is a luxury that we enjoy, many others around the world do not.

November Issue

James Harry Bull Second year Public Relations and Marketing Communications

28 November Issue

Featured Team.

Volleyball success George Peryer

Here at Bucks, it’s fair to say we’ve never been particularly successful when it comes to volleyball. Having always finished at the very bottom of the BUCS (Britsh University College Sports) league since the sport was established here. However this year, the tides have turned.

After playing only three matches so far this year, we’ve already won two! Now that doesn’t exactly sound as impressive as say football or netball who seem to win all the time, however we have already equalled our all-time best score for a whole season in just one month.

This meant they had to win the next two sets and they would win. So they did just that and won the next set 25-16. Christ Church then pulled back a set, so it was 2-1. The fourth and last set was very close; however the Women’s team won 26-24!

This is the first time a women’s team has won at Bucks and they were elated. This year both teams have gelled well together creating incredibly strong teams, which has also been helped by new experienced players on the team.

"the tides have turned" On 29 October the women’s team played their first game of the season against Canterbury Christ Church. The first set was tough to get into, and in the middle it was not going their way. However they did manage to get to 8 points, meaning they were in the lead by 1 point. From sheer determination, they stuck with it and won the set.

The Women’s team’s next match will have been played by the time you read this, and hopefully you’ll be hearing about their second win against Hertfordshire University at home. The same can hopefully be said about the Men’s team too who are playing Chichester away. Chichester are a great team to play against and win or lose, we’ll learn a great deal.

29 November Issue

Our success this year does not only come down to the new players we have, but also due to the new training times this year. With a dedicated two hours on a Tuesday we can have the training to properly hone our skills for matches, keeping the intensity of a real game going. Also, with the installation of the double net system, we also have the opportunity to train the Men’s and Women’s teams simultaneously, doubling the efficiency and ensuring the most is made of the time available. The Saturday sessions are then a great opportunity to have more fun with the sport and engage with other progressing players, by small groups of skill based areas nestled around games. The games range from three a side, to six, with the opportunity of having two matches side by side.

This is a very exciting year for a President who has seen the club grow so far in the past few years. I merged when both Badminton and Volleyball were joined as clubs, which as a fresher, had no real impact on me. I’d turn up and play on a Tuesday and then go home to sleep! As I became more involved it became apparent that the clubs would benefit from separating, and coincidentally, we split apart to form the two separate clubs which now exist today. I then became chair in my second year, which was thrilling to be able to lead volleyball to a new place, where I could hopefully make things better for everyone, increasing participation and taking the club to new levels. On top of this, I was also the Volleyball Officer, which meant I had to not only be involved in the running of the club, but be involved in the sessions; motivating and encouraging members to increase participation and instilling my love of the sport in them. I found it was great fun! Throughout 2013-14 the most we won was a set in one of our matches, however despite this, the drive and determination was still there, but it was not enough to win matches.

Things needed to change, and change they did. This year we have a new committee, new players and a new approach and this year will be the year we show Bucks New Uni just what we can do. I for one, am buzzing by the prospect and even more excited to see where this will lead in years to come.

If you are interested in joining the revolution then come along to the Events Hall on Saturdays from 12pm-2pm to have some fun playing matches and learning skills to develop you as a player, or try out for the team on a Tuesday from 8pm-10pm.

If you’d like to support us, but cannot make these dates, why not come along to our takeover on 12 November! We are transforming the Students' Union venue into a beach, with games, drinks and prizes. At £2 entry and a great evening guaranteed there’s no way you can refuse! Come along from 8pm dressed for the beach and we’ll see how low you can go!

30 November Issue

Society.

The Union for On your Christians bike Sam Osei-Tutu

Listen, yes, we can’t answer all the mysteries in this world. But the almighty God is willing to reveal more about Himself to you. His will is to help you and not to harm you. And to give you hope and a future.

As stated in Jeremiah 29:11.

"My brethren, life is too complex to go on your own. The enemy is out there looking for someone to devour."

Fact: You need God and you need His directions.

Save yourself the trouble of figuring things out. We have a God that’s more than willing to reveal to you great and amazing things.

So with your permission, I would like to introduce to you a brand new resource that the Christian Union Committee members and I have developed.

It’s called “Knowing God’s Will: Simple Steps To Discover God’s Perfect Plan For You.” This contains a weekly series of profound and prolific ministers of the word of God, that God had purposely planned to come and speak to us.

There is somebody reading this article now and you know well enough that you are not supposed to be where you are right now, you know you need God, this is your time, this is your hour, this is your moment.

Grab it now!

Get in touch with us via social media: Twitter : @bucksnewcu Facebook: facebook.com/bucksCU Instagram: Buckscu

Over the summer the Students’Union were successful in their bid for a grant from Sport England’s Sport Activation Fund. One of the initiatives supported through this grant is our cycling programme. The Union has bought 15 bikes and locks for students to use throughout the year and there are a mixture of road and mountain bikes giving everyone a choice.

They are currently kept in the bike rack outside the Timberlake building at High Wycombe Campus. For any student who is interested just come to the Students' Union offices for more information or email Daniel Lawrence at daniel.lawrence@bucks.ac.uk.

There have already been a number of students who have taken advantage of this offer and are using the bikes to get around High Wycombe. Be aware that when you come in to rent the bikes, they have to be back by 3pm

on Friday to allow for their use over the weekend. We will also take your student ID number and a £20 deposit.

As long as the bike is brought back on the day you back on the day you specify, your £20 deposit will be given back in full. For every day the bike is late, £5 will be deducted.

Additionally there is a student-led bike ride held every Sunday by our cycling ambassador Jacob Underwood. These sessions are open to everyone and as well as getting to see a different side of Buckinghamshire it is a chance to work off some calories and meet some new students. Don’t worry if you haven’t been on a bike for a while, these sessions can be designed to meet the students needs - just contact Jacob to let him know. The one thing that we don’t provide are bike helmets – so please bring your own. To find our more email jacobdu@live.co.uk.

Up to 40% off... ...plus many, many more

nus.org.uk All details correct at time of printing.

31 November Issue

Grant Sekhon

Boxing what our members say "Before I started university I told myself I was going to try something new and make the most of the opportunities I had around me. When the Freshers' Fair came I walked around looking at all the sports and societies and nothing took my fancy. To be honest I’d never really been into sports, in fact PE was my worst lesson at school and you would never see me down the park playing football. For some bizarre reason a small, skinny guy like me walked up to the boxing stall and decided it was a good idea to sign up to a sport that involves being punched in the face. I have no idea why I decided to sign up for it but it’s definitely one of the best decisions I have made.

My first day at boxing was the most exercise I had since high school PE It was hard work but when I put those gloves on and made contact with the heavy bag something inside of me said this is definitely for you. Since that first lesson boxing has been on my mind pretty much every day. I have been watching videos on YouTube, practising my punches and buzzing for my next training session. I’ve been to boxing for a few weeks and still get the same rush every time I punch the bag or successfully block a jab. I’m thinking of going twice a week so I can learn new skills but also to get it out of my system. I constantly feel the urge to throw out some punches, thankfully some of the people in my flat are boxers too so we can work together on pads and touch sparring. I'm glad there's a boxing gym back in my home town as I don’t think I would make it through the summer holidays without boxing!

I look forward to the next three years of training whilst studying at Bucks and I hope that I will be good enough to compete in amateur boxing at some point to represent my Uni and to see if all the hard work I have put in pays off."

Cameron Duffy "I am the new secretary for the BNU Boxing Society. I have a great passion for keeping fit alongside my studies. I have been attending boxing since my first year and want to support the club as much as possible. As the society expands in numbers, it would be a good aim to keep the close and united feeling the society holds through fundraising, socials and takeovers. I would aim to achieve the goals to ensure we can receive the funding necessary which keeps the society strong.

I feel I am the right person for this role as I am a dedicated and reliable person with a passion for regular exercise and the sport of boxing. I am currently in my second year of my Law degree and should I be successful I would hope to continue supporting the society in my third year. As the society grows I would like to grow with it, I feel I can be a great help. It would be my aim to assist in being able have the sessions twice a week. I hope to be a successful Secretary, and to become a positive help to the running of the society. I would put 100% effort into my involvement in the club and make sure I undertake my role correctly."

Bradley Boussada Grant

Need support for a mental health difficulty?

For example, depression, anxiety or schizophrenia?

You may get support if: • it affects daily activities, for example interacting with people • it has lasted, or is likely to last, 12 months or more.

You may be entitled to receive: • extra time in exams • equipment, such as a computer • one-to-one support, for example a mentor.

Contact us: Tel: 01494 605 049 Email: disability.service@bucks.ac.uk Drop in: High Wycombe Campus N1.11 or Uxbridge Campus second floor helpdesk

The Disability Service bucks.ac.uk/disability

ACTIVITIES WEEK MON 17 - FRI 21 NOV

A week full of fun opportunities to try something different or learn a new skill. All activities on offer from the Students’ Union are free.

Additional skills include: Sign language Student leadership training Emergency first aid Public speaking workshop Introduction to football refereeing

Recreational activities include: Street food market Bubble football Crazy golf Fun fair Laser tag