Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my manifesto. I am Richard Butler, and I am on the first of a four-year masters degree in primary education. I am passionate about the University and love my course. I came into Derby University through a foundation year and being a mature student (36), this helped me so much in returning to education. I have a family, two children. A 9-year-old son, and a 15-year-old daughter, also to add that I and my partner are getting married on the 31st of May this year. So, I know the additional stresses this can add to studies, but I am confident that with the right support and positive attitude any student can achieve amazing things at this incredible institution.
I am standing for election to the Institute of Education officer role within the student union. This is a key role I wanted to run for, as it focuses completely on the education portion of the university. Having been through the foundation year and building on my academic knowledge I have encountered several amazing lecturers and staff and I honestly cannot think of a bad word to say about any of them. This spurs me on to want to be involved in decision making, spreading the student voice, and helping anyone that needs any advice or guidance.
It is imperative that every student feels listened to and understood, this, teamed with providing feedback to the university on what issues, concerns, or positive experiences they have made me aware of. As a program rep for my cohort for the second year, I am already involved with the student union and have experience in gathering these types of positive feedback and concerns.
I would like to take this opportunity to ask you to vote in the upcoming elections, and should you agree with what I would like to bring to the role, vote for me specifically.
Good luck to all candidates and I hope to see all of you around the university.