Student reps from Falmouth University and the University of Exeter recently gathered at the Big Rep Meeting to discuss areas of improvement for your student experience.

This event was also attended by University, FX Plus and Students’ Union staff to develop a deeper understanding of the views, feedback and needs of students.

What students were talking about this year 

Here's a look at what was raised and discussed in December's Big Rep Meeting 2024.

Climate Change and Education 

Reps sat down with SU Vice President Marketa Carruthers, University of Exeter  Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Cornwall Martin Siegert, and Falmouth’s Sustainability Coordinator Jake Causley to talk about climate change and ecological crisis. This is what reps called for:

•    Increased local and sustainable items in the campus shop.
•    Opportunities for collaboration across courses on sustainability focussed modules and a larger focus on the climate crises within all modules. 
•    More support with sourcing sustainable resources and materials.

Falmouth Stores  

Falmouth student reps had the opportunity to share feedback on the Falmouth Stores system with Adam Richards from the Falmouth Digital Design and Development team. They were asked to think about how the system is used, what could be improved, and if any guidance was needed:

•    Many students feel the search function of the stores site is difficult to use.
•    Feelings that the booking duration of 48 hours is too short.
•    Requests for a clearer process of how to request induction equipment. 

International Student Experience 

Reps were asked to share feedback with SU Vice President Fina Day, Falmouth’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Academic Services Russell Crawford, and Exeter’s International Student Advisor Natalie Battelle on what can be done to improve the transition for international students. Reps highlighted:

•    The difficulties of finding housing when a UK-based guarantor can be required. 
•    International students would like more events to celebrate different cultures on campus. 
•    Limitations of a cashless campus when it’s difficult to open a UK bank account prior to arrival.

CoLab 

Reps discussed the use of the collaborative student platform CoLab with SU President Falmouth Jadelle Luckman, Falmouth Employability Content and Delivery Manager Lucy Mainstone, and Exeter Cornwall’s Head of Education Services & Student Experience Chez Crickmere. This is what reps shared with them:

•    Students felt CoLab would be beneficial for academic projects such as film students finding extras or AMATA students sharing casting calls.
•    Suggesting that a material swap shop could be part of CoLab so that students can share materials. 
•    The opportunity to connect with student mentors or alumni. 

SU Events 

Reps spoke with team members from the SU to tell us all about what activities you would like to see from the SU:

•    More trips around Cornwall to places such as the Cornish Seal Sanctuary (which we’ve organised for the 19 March 2025!).
•    Students suggested opportunities where students across campus are encouraged to collaborate - such as a Showcase. 
•    Reps also gave feedback on how the SU can communicate events through social media and posters. 

Wellbeing 

FX Plus Wellbeing Development Lead Clare Manser spoke with reps to learn about what barriers students face in accessing student wellbeing services:

•    Reps shared how the advertising and communication of wellbeing services can be improved so students have easier access. 
•    The barriers to booking appointments discussed, such as issues with timing and locating the services.
•    Student feelings around the use of the Compass Help Desk were shared. 

Is there something here you feel passionate about? Want to get your voice heard?

Sign up to become a rep!

By signing up to be a rep, you have the opportunity to be a voice for students engaging directly with the universities and staff at the annual Big Rep Meeting.