Blog
A three month catch up - this might bore you
It’s been a long time since my last update on the blog system, so here goes…
We saw the opening of the Courtyard in Langwith, and it’s now been open over 3 months! If you have any feedback, we’d love to hear it: l.smith@yusu.org. We have the full Sky TV package and will shortly be able to accept credit and debit cards!
In addition to supporting the launch of the Courtyard, there’s been a lot of thought put into the future strategy and offering, including events. We’ve had an interesting time in securing a new perimeter fence around the external area, which has now been agreed and should be installed in the next few weeks.
I’m involved in the Student Centre Working Group where we have discussed proposals for the future, and have been looking at potential refurbishment opportunities at Langwith, rather than a new building on Heslington East.
I have attended meetings with NUS Services Ltd. Where I volunteer as a committee member. Here we think of ideas to introduce new services to the student movement and remain competitive with the high street, in addition to offering a good service. During the Easter holidays, I gave a presentation with our Chief Executive, Saul, and Laurie, Courtyard Manager, at the NUS Services Convention, sharing with the student movement the successes (and pitfalls) of the project and encouraging others to learn from this.
I am involved in the University’s Catering Strategy meetings, where we again look at the offering available on campus and ensure that it is meeting the students and staff demands. Some things to note would be the offering of more "healthy" options, always ensuring there are vegetables available with meals on campus and that vegetarians and vegans are looked after. We are also working towards this at the Courtyard.
I remain involved in the Goodricke 40th Birthday plans and this includes leading on the organisation for the 40th Ball (Saturday week 2). We’re also planning for the move to Heslington East and putting in place plans which my successor will carry forward.
I lead on a consultation about our technical company, Ents-Tech. The end decision was to cease trading and we have entered into contracts with two local companies for the provision of technical equipment to service events at the University, whilst maintaining our previous pricing structure for the next three years. This secures the ability to run events on campus.
I have lead on the organisation of the Roses weekend events: Friday and Saturday week 2. These are looking to offer some great entertainment and we are keeping these on campus this year. Tickets are at http://www.yusu.org/tickets
I met with the Licensing Authority for York where we have discussed and agreed upon an acceptable form of ID on campus: utilising the DUCK (University Library) card. This will be rolled out from this year onwards for the next 3 years, as new intakes include the DoB on the cards. I’ve met with representatives from the University (and their agents) with regards to the University card, and we are pushing for the inclusion of an expiry date on the DUCK card per active policy.
I continue to support events on campus, contributing to the Major Events Meeting for both Woodstock and Big D.
I am part of a Steering Group looking at refurbishing the concrete area outside Vanbrugh (next to the lake). The University have committed £500,000 towards this project and I am there to represent students and try and get a space that is fit for purpose and also expands the performance opportunities at the University of York.
I continue to be involved in Interviews for various staff positions, including the recruitment of a new Advertising & Marketing Co-ordinator (welcome Gemma!) for the Union!
One of the important working groups I have been sat on recently is the Catering & Social Space one. Here we are discussing the opportunities for the above on the Heslington East development, as well as redevelopment on this site. I have encouraged the University to learn from the Courtyard project and put forward ideas to develop an outlet that is fit for purpose, for staff and students, and not trying to fit all groups, including conference guests. This development is really important for students who will be living on the developed site, in addition to students visiting the department and staff located over there.
And finally, I took two weeks off work which is my first holiday since August last year! I didn’t go anywhere, but I caught up and started applying for jobs.. wish me luck.
Matt
