We know there's often lots of questions on your mind when you start Uni, and the unique situation we are in currently can cause a little worry. We've compiled a list of frequently asked questions below, simply click or tap on a question to see the answer.
How do I/do I have to join the Union?
When you enrol with the University you become a member of the Union. This will give you access to all of our services, events and activities. At the point of enrolment you can opt out of your membership and you can find out more about this process in our Standing Orders.
How do I meet people?
There will be lots of opportunities to meet new people during your studies. You will meet people on your programme of course, but there are many other great ways to meet like-minded students. We suggest you take a look at our range of sports clubs or societies to find out about different groups you can join. If you have a particular interest that isn’t covered, then get in touch with us to set up your very own group.
The Union runs a variety of events throughout the year, this starts with our Freshers programme. Check out our Freshers Minisite to see what we have to offer.
What is happening this year?
This year we have worked hard to offer you a safe and sociable mix of virtual and in-person Freshers events when you arrive.
We have designed a purpose built, outdoor Freshers village at Kedleston Road, where you take part in a range of events and activities throughout induction week in one of our four marquees.
Check out our full list of events for more information.
Will there be food and drink on site?
The Freshers Village bar will be open when events are taking place, throughout the day and into the evening with outdoor seating and places to relax. There will be an ordering system in place where you can pre-order food and drink to your table and use contactless payment methods to pay.
Away from the village, the Union will open its coffee shop Blends, at both Kedleston Road and One Friar Gate Square, and our main shop at Kedleston Road will also be open selling a wide range of meals and snacks.
Where can I find out where to go on the day?
You won’t be able to miss the Freshers Village, it will be visible and well signposted on the approach to the Kedleston Road building. Entry and Exit points will also be clearly marked to help you navigate our safe one-way system.
I have anxiety and prefer quieter events. Is there anything for me?
Yes! We have made sure there are a great mix of events for all students.
You may find quieter events such as the Wine and Cheese or the creative Feel Good Friday ideal for you. We are also offering virtual events for you to enjoy from the comfort of your own sofa.
Check out our full list of events for more information.
Is Derby good for a night out?
We think so and we work closely with a number of local nightclubs to offer great student deals on nights out in the City. These nights will resume as soon as government guidelines allow. In the meantime you can check out the wide range of bars and restaurants available and start planning to get to know your new home away from home!
Where are the events?
This year there is a mix of virtual and in-person Freshers events when you arrive.
For Derby based students, your in-person events will centre on our Freshers Village, a purpose built outdoor venue at Kedleston Road.
For Buxton based students, your events will centre on the Devonshire Dome, a large, open plan space.
Check out each event to see where you can find each one.
How do I log in to buy a ticket?
You can log in to the site at derbyunion.co.uk/login, there will also be a link to the login page on every ticketed event if you're not already logged in.
You will log in using your using your student number and University password. If you’ve not got these yet, or you’ve only got them recently you may not be able to link your University and Union accounts yet, so you’ll need to create a guest account (from the same login page) to purchase any tickets until the accounts can be linked.
How do I know if it's an official Union event?
All Union of Students events can be found here on our official website. So you know which events are being run by us before you arrive; new events are being added so check back regularly for the latest updates.
Do any events cost money?
A small number of our evening events require you to purchase a ticket to secure your booking. Due to limited capacity these tickets help to ensure each seat at the event is taken.
If for whatever reason you cannot attend as planned, you will be entitled to a refund if you let us know 48 hours before the event. Any cancellations after this point cannot be refunded.
I’m so excited! How do I buy a wristband?
There is no wristband to purchase this year, each event that requires a ticket is being sold seperately. Some events have a limited seating so make sure you book your space.
I’m in my third year at uni – can I come to some of the events?
Yes! All University of Derby students are welcome to attend our events. A first release of tickets are designated to first year students only, but all other releases are open to everyone.
Can I bring my friends?
You are able to book tickets for you and other members of your household and you will be seated together if you book as a group. As places are limited we request that only University of Derby students attend ticketed events, but guests are welcome at Freshers Fair and other daytime events.
How do I join a sports club?
We’ve got over 40 teams for you to get involved with and you can even set up something new if you think there are enough people interested.
You can find a full list of our clubs and sign upon the website. Clubs and societies offer free sessions so you can try before you join.
Do you have any gaming societies?
You can find a full list of our societies on the website.
If you can’t find what you are looking for, why not start your own society. We can help you get up and running!
Do sports/activities cost to join?
Sports clubs and activities usually have a cost to joining to keep the club running and ensure students are safe and insured. Membership prices for each club and society will be available on the website from 1st September.
Check out our full list of clubs and societies.
I’m struggling to settle in, is there someone I can talk to?
Do I need to wear a mask to attend events?
For events which take place in the Freshers village, face coverings are optional and you can wear one if you choose. The Village is an outdoor venue and the space is therefore very well ventilated.
Are events going to be safe to attend?
We are working hard to ensure all Freshers events are COVID-19 safe, with one way systems around the venue and clear signage to help you navigate the space. There will be hand sanitising stations on the entrance and exit to each marquee and floor signage encouraging social distancing is maintained at all times.
We will be adhering to NHS Track and Trace guidelines and encouraging pre-booking to all events so that details can be stored securely in the event of a positive case being recorded.
We are also utilising temperature checking for seated events on entrance to the marquees and all events will have allocated seating and table only service to ensure social distancing throughout.