Personal and Academic Support

As Undergraduate Programmes Manager I am responsible for managing all areas of activity associated with the Undergraduate programmes within the Business School. Along with my dedicated team of administrative staff, I ensure that we advise our students about relevant processes and procedures during their time with us and that these are carried out, as appropriate. My objective is to help students choose a study pathway that meets their needs, whilst also adhering to University and School policy. I operate an open door policy and students are welcome to call when passing to discuss problems or queries. Typical issues raised include degree and progression regulations, module registration, course transfers, coursework submission and examination related queries.

As the Skills & Development Manager my main aim is to ensure that our students settle into the Business School as quickly and easily as possible and to understand what is expected of them during their course. Reading for a business degree in a university is likely to be very different to studying in your current school or college. In particular, you will need to be proactive in learning to manage your time and to work independently, which is often more difficult than you might expect. Most modules in the Business School are assessed by end-of-term examinations, or via coursework that is submitted at the end of each semester. It is therefore up to you to manage your own workload so that you can complete all of your work on time and to a high standard.

When studying business subjects at university you will need to learn how to work critically with a wide range of literature sources. These will include academic journals, textbooks and online sources. While lectures will provide you with a template to each topic area, you will always need to read and research further if you want to achieve the highest grades and to get the most out of the university experience. To support your transition into working independently at university I run the Study Skills Programme. The programme has a compulsory first session that helps to orientate you into the Business School and then each week will focus on a different skill including effective reading and note taking, presentations and group work, coursework preparation and essay writing, referencing and how to avoid plagiarism, critical analysis and exam preparation. In addition to these formal sessions, students throughout their time at university can book individual consultations as and when the need arises.

I try to ensure that any student who has an issue with their studies - or who just wants a chat and some reassurance - has someone approachable they can call on. I am available to see small groups or individuals on an appointment basis, or if the door is open students can just drop in when passing and always be assured of a warm welcome.

As the Business School's Student Support Officer, I offer an opportunity for students to talk in confidence about problems that concern them. Typical issues that students raise with me include family concerns, bereavement, worries about drugs and alcohol, eating difficulties, depression, relationship problems and difficulties adjusting to a new way of life.

As one of the School's Disability Liaison Officers I also offer advice and guidance to students with a disability or a long-term medical condition. My aim is to be welcoming and approachable. I hope that students will always feel that there is someone who is available to offer confidential help and advice, no matter what the problem.