News Archive

Union Elections branding - a green background with a big black X in the middle, and some more transp

Why Should I Nominate Myself in the Elections?

Molly Morrison

Nominations are open, and this is your chance to lead the Union as an Executive Officer! But why should you run? We've put together three reasons why you should nominate yourself!

Mon 24 Nov 2025 Elections 5 0

Buying and Selling – Where it’s Going Wrong

Sam Bolton

Like all of you, I am a student at Derby. I’m here because I want to get my degree and take my skills into a successful career. At the start of this year, however, I entered my first lecture to find my program leader – with a solemn look on his fac

Sun 23 Nov 2025 Phantom Media 0 0
Phantom MediaredundanciesUniversity of Derby
Students in a lecture theatre

Online Forum Recap

Voice Team

The first Online Student Forum of the 25-26 academic year was hosted by the Union of Students and the University of Derby Online Learning team on Monday 27th October.

Mon 03 Nov 2025 Union of Students 0 0

The Rise of Sustainable Fashion: Why Students Are Saying No to Fast Fashion

Ellie Kent

For years, cheap, mass-produced clothing from brands like Shein, Boohoo, and Zara dominated wardrobes. The model thrived on constant turnover: new “drops” every week, low prices, and high consumption. But behind the bargain was an uncomfortable truth

Mon 03 Nov 2025 Phantom Media 5 0

A Statement from your Executive Officers regarding the University Redundancies Proposals

Executive Officer Team

We want to reassure you that we are actively listening and responding to your feedback. Over the past week, many students have expressed concern and confusion regarding the University’s Redundancy Proposals. As your Executive Officer Team, we recogni

Fri 24 Oct 2025 Union of Students 0 1

Upcoming Events In and Around Derby

Jess Land

As deadlines approach and the semester ramps up, it is really important to take some time to do some of the things you enjoy. Whether that’s relaxing with friends, taking a walk through the park, or listening to live music, Derby has something for ev

Tue 21 Oct 2025 Phantom Media 0 0

An Open Letter to the University of Derby

Danielle Williams

Tue 21 Oct 2025 Phantom Media 5 1

You are NOT alone

Holly Smithurst

Struggling with your mental health can be a very lonely experience, especially if you don’t know anyone else who is.

Fri 10 Oct 2025 Phantom Media 0 0

Why I Still Love the Old Books More Than the New Ones

Jen Ndugire

I’ve read a lot of books over the years, but nothing will ever beat Dork Diaries and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Those books were a huge part of my childhood, and honestly, I think they’re way better than a lot of the new books kids are reading now, like

Tue 07 Oct 2025 Phantom Media 5 1
Students in a lecture theatre

ASM Roundup

The Voice Team

Seven Policy Proposals went through ASM on the 24th September, find out about the changes here!

Thu 02 Oct 2025 Union of Students 0 0
ASMCommunitiesGovernancePolicyReps

Your University Lecture Essentials

Emma Wood

This is your chance to be the person who is always prepared for any situation!

Fri 26 Sep 2025 Phantom Media 0 0
A group of students sat in a lecture hall. One of them is speaking into a microphone.

ASM: what, when and why??

Molly Morrison

We've got an ASM coming up, and you may be wondering what that is....

Fri 12 Sep 2025 Union of Students 5 0
The Atrium at Kedleston Road during a Freshers Fair. The shot is taken from the balcony, so you get

Freshers' Fair accessibility changes

Molly Morrison

We want to create a fair that's accessible to every student, which is why we've taken some extra steps to ensure everyone can join us!

Tue 09 Sep 2025 Union of Students 5 0
The Executive Officer team stood behind the #derbyuni sign at the Kedleston Road campus

Statement Regarding ‘Operation Raise the Colours’

Executive Officer Team

Recently, across England and elsewhere, hundreds of St George's and Union Jack Flags have been put up in towns and cities and even on Motorways and Main Roads. To some, these are well-meaning demonstrations of national pride; however, these flags car

Tue 09 Sep 2025 Your Officers 5 0
Anshika posing in a Instagram frame

From Delhi to Derby: My Journey of Support, Belonging, and Growth

Anshika

From an uncertain international student stepping off the plane in a new country, to becoming Union President — my journey at the University of Derby is proof of what strong support and community can make possible.

Fri 29 Aug 2025 Your Officers 0 0
A view of the Silk Mill and river

Discovering Derby

Kaeda Hipkiss, Vice President (Welfare)

As you start your journey as a fresher in Derby, you might think nightlife is all there is, but the city has so much more to explore! From cultural attractions and artistic venues to cosy cafes and exciting activities, there’s something for everyone.

Thu 21 Aug 2025 Your Officers 0 0

What is the Union and How Can They Help Me?

Molly Morrison

Well…it’s us! We’re your Union of Students, and there are so many ways we can help you throughout your time here!

Fri 15 Aug 2025 Union of Students 0 0
A group of six people sat on beanbags outdoors.

Finding Your Tribe

Molly Morrison

A huge part of the student lifestyle is finding friends that you’ll keep for life. We want to help you find your tribe, so we thought we’d share a few tips on the best ways to make friends whilst you’re here.

Thu 07 Aug 2025 Union of Students 5 0
Freshers
The four Executive Officers standing with the #derbyuni sign outside the Kedleston Road campus

Welcome to Derby Uni!

Molly Morrison

We’re so glad you’re here! Welcome to the University of Derby – your new home for the next few years.

Thu 07 Aug 2025 Union of Students 5 0
A student speaking into a microphone

College Forum Roundup

The last Online Student Forum of the 24/25 academic year. There was a lot of discussion around learning and teaching and opportunities and careers

Wed 02 Jul 2025 Student Voice 0 0
 

News

Online Forum Recap
Students in a lecture theatre

The first Online Student Forum of the 25-26 academic year was hosted by the Union of Students and the University of Derby Online Learning team on Monday 27th October.

 
ASM Roundup
Students in a lecture theatre

Seven Policy Proposals went through ASM on the 24th September, find out about the changes here!

 
ASM: what, when and why??
A group of students sat in a lecture hall. One of them is speaking into a microphone.

We've got an ASM coming up, and you may be wondering what that is....

 
Freshers' Fair accessibility changes
The Atrium at Kedleston Road during a Freshers Fair. The shot is taken from the balcony, so you get

We want to create a fair that's accessible to every student, which is why we've taken some extra steps to ensure everyone can join us!

 
What is the Union and How Can They Help Me?

Well…it’s us! We’re your Union of Students, and there are so many ways we can help you throughout your time here!

 
Finding Your Tribe
A group of six people sat on beanbags outdoors.

A huge part of the student lifestyle is finding friends that you’ll keep for life. We want to help you find your tribe, so we thought we’d share a few tips on the best ways to make friends whilst you’re here.

 
Welcome to Derby Uni!
The four Executive Officers standing with the #derbyuni sign outside the Kedleston Road campus

We’re so glad you’re here! Welcome to the University of Derby – your new home for the next few years.

 
Statement Regarding ‘Operation Raise the Colours’
The Executive Officer team stood behind the #derbyuni sign at the Kedleston Road campus

Recently, across England and elsewhere, hundreds of St George's and Union Jack Flags have been put up in towns and cities and even on Motorways and Main Roads. To some, these are well-meaning demonstrations of national pride; however, these flags carry an entirely different message to others.

 
Community Awards Results 2023

The Community Awards were a great celebration of our Societies, Student-Led Services, and Volunteering successes over the past year.

 
Movember: Big Moustache on Campus Challenge
Whatever you grow will save a bro

Get involved in our Movember challenge!

 
College Forum Roundup
A student speaking into a microphone

The last Online Student Forum of the 24/25 academic year. There was a lot of discussion around learning and teaching and opportunities and careers

 
Elections Drop-in Sessions
The Executive Officers (in order of appearance: Jack, Holly, Gabby and Pournami) sat together all on

Chat to our current Executive Officer team about all things elections!

 
2025 All Student Meeting Results
A student talking into a microphone in a lecture hall filled with students.

On Monday 10th February the Union held its annual All Student Meeting, where a series of changes to the Union of Students were voted on by students.

 
Stories for Every Stocking — A Book Gift Guide
A book and a warm drink in front of a Xmas tree

Happy December! We are officially entering the most wonderful time of the year. There are Christmas markets to explore, hot chocolates to drink, carols to sing and, most alarmingly, presents to wrap. The multitude of options and the thought of battling Christmas crowds can make buying gifts for your loved ones feel like an impossible task. But do not worry because if in doubt, get them a book!

 
ASM - What, Why and When?

The Union of Students will be holding an All Student Meeting on Tuesday 4th February 12.00pm - 1.30pm and all students are invited.

 
Non-Fiction November

Here are five non-fiction recommendations to feed your curiosity.

 
Got an idea?

Do you have an idea that will improve the student experience? The Ideas Forum is the place for you!

 
Phantom Newspaper - An Autumn Reading List
An open book with an autumnal leaf resting upon it

The semester is officially in full swing, and so is autumn. From cosy fantasy to page-turning thrillers, the autumn months are made for reading. So, here are four book recommendations to add some pumpkin spice to your shelf.

 
Why is it important to remember Disability History Month?

Disability History Month plays an important part in highlighting and remembering the people of the past, present and future who have disabilities.

 
Trans Day of Remembrance 2023

Trans Day of Remembrance aims to honour and remember transgender individuals who have lost their lives in acts of anti-transgender violence.

 
Make a pledge for your mental health

Your Student Officer for Mental Health Awareness writes about Mental Health Awareness Day

 
Education Awards 2023

Last night, the Education Awards returned to the Museum of Making with a bang!

 
Education Awards: Nominations are now open!

The Union of Students Education Awards are a fantastic celebration of all the hard work and dedication of our Student Reps and the inspirational staff at the University.

 
Who is R.O.N?

When voting on the Student Officers you wish to be successful, you may notice that for every candidate you are voting for, there’s an option to vote for R.O.N…

 
AGM 2023 Results

On Tuesday 28th February the Union had its Annual General Meeting, where a series of changes to the Union of Students were voted on by over 50 students.

 
What is an AGM?
Annual General Meeting. Your chance to vote on important changes to your Union of Students.

A key annual meeting that all students are invited to vote on proposed policy changes.

 
Little Shop of Horrors: Behind the Scenes
The musical theatre society all stood together for a group photo.

Over the past semester we have been hard at work excitedly putting together a fantastic show and we're so proud of what both the creative team and cast have accomplished in such a short time. We whole-heartedly encourage you to grab tickets whilst you can and enjoy the show.

 
UDOL Student Forum - October2022
We hear you

We have now had the first Student Forum of the 22-23 academic year, hosted by the Union of Students and the University of Derby Online Learning team

 
Men's Football 3rds Match Report
One of the men's football teams huddled together on the pitch.

Derby University 3rds were victorious in a commanding 4-1 win against league rivals Leicester University 2nds.

 
What's a societies pass?

Want to join a society but unsure of what a society's pass is?

 
UDOL Student Forum - June 2022

On Thursday, June 30th, the Union of Students and University of Derby Online Learning (UDOL) hosted their final UDOL student forum of the 2021/22 academic year.

 
BUCS round-up: Wednesday 18th October

It was a week of mixed results for our University of Derby sports teams, as the second week of BUCS got underway.

 
Sports Awards 2023

Sports Awards 2023 took place on Thursday 18th May at Pride Park.

 
BUCS round-up: Wednesday 23rd November

BUCS was back in action this week as most of our teams took part in cup competitions, looking to make the later rounds.

 
BUCS round-up: Wednesday 16th November

In yet another week of BUCS, the men’s football teams did us proud, while other sports teams struggled with mixed results across the board.

 
Annual General Meeting – The Results!

Find out what changes are being made to your Union of Students

 
Union Elections 2021 - The Candidates

See our fabulous candidates here and how to vote ( and what you could win just for voting!)

 
Stalking Awareness Week
Someone typing on a laptop.

April 21st-26th marks Stalking Awareness Week.

 
Buying and Selling – Where it’s Going Wrong

Like all of you, I am a student at Derby. I’m here because I want to get my degree and
take my skills into a successful career. At the start of this year, however, I entered my
first lecture to find my program leader – with a solemn look on his face – ready to deliver
the disheartening news on the state of our degree, and the university as a whole.

 
Alcohol Awareness Survey
Alcohol bottles

Information on alcohol awareness, and a short survey to fill out

 
The Rise of Sustainable Fashion: Why Students Are Saying No to Fast Fashion

For years, cheap, mass-produced clothing from brands like Shein, Boohoo, and Zara dominated wardrobes. The model thrived on constant turnover: new “drops” every week, low prices, and high consumption. But behind the bargain was an uncomfortable truth: exploitative labour, textile waste, and enormous carbon emissions.

 
The On Campus Internship Scheme (OCIS) is open!

The On Campus Internship Scheme (OCIS) is open, with a wide range of vacancies exclusively for 1st and 2nd year undergraduates to apply for.

 
Watch Out for Scams
A phone on the floor with a cracked screen

What Every University Student Needs to Know!

 
I'm Officially a University of Derby Student - Now What?

Congrats, you've made it! Now that you're officially a student at the University of Derby, we're here to tell you what comes next!

 
Upcoming Events In and Around Derby

As deadlines approach and the semester ramps up, it is really important to take some time to do some of the things you enjoy. Whether that’s relaxing with friends, taking a walk through the park, or listening to live music, Derby has something for everyone. Here are five upcoming events in the city to schedule into your calendar over the next couple of months!

 
Meet new friends & have fun this term whilst getting active!

We have lots of exciting sports activities for you to take part in this term. Rally your mates together and enter a team into our Friday 6-aside football league, come along to our halls events and win points for your accommodation or join our weekly social sport sessions.

 
Costume ≠ Consent
Someone sat down in a graveyard with a sheet on their head to look like a ghost. Their legs are stic

Going out for Halloween can be one of the most exciting times of the University calendar. From going to parties, to planning your perfect Halloween costume or creating your own outfit, Halloween is a time for creativity and expressing yourself, however, there’s one key thing to remember: Costumes are for fun, not for crossing lines. Regardless of what costume you are wearing, you shouldn’t feel signed up for unwanted attention or contact.

 
What is a GIAG?
Two students in taekwondo gear pretending to fight at freshers' fair.

You may see the term GIAG floating around - it stands for give it a go, which is something that our clubs host to help you get a taste of what they do!

 
Who are we?
The Executive Officers (in order of appearance: Jack, Holly, Gabby and Pournami) sat together on a s

Want to know more about who the Union are? Then this article is for you!

 
Introducing Umbrella UK, our DHM charity.

Throughout November and December, we will be fundraising for Umbrella as part of Disability History Month.

 
The Sports & Physical Activity team are hiring!
The Sports & Physical Activity team in a classroom hosting a workshop.

The University of Derby's performance sport department are seeking a Sport and Exercise Psychology Practitioner who is currently enrolled on BASES SEPAR, to support the delivery of our talented athlete services provision for the 2024/25 academic year.

 
Handling Conflict in Student Housing

See our tips for handling conflict in student housing to get the best out of the experience.

 
How to Save Money
A pink piggy bank money box with a pile of coins. The piggy bank is tipped over so it looks like it

As your Union Advice team, we have compiled a list of top tips on how to save money whilst you're at university!

 
Snap Elections Results

Our Snap Elections are now finished and we would like to thank all of the students who ran for positions, it has been great to see your hard work in campaigning and all of your determination.

 
A thank you to our sponsors
Two students smiling and laughing

Freshers wouldn't be Freshers without the support of our amazing partners and sponsors

 
You are NOT alone

Struggling with your mental health can be a very lonely experience, especially if you
don’t know anyone else who is.

 
Autumn Term update from the Sports and Physical Activity Team

Exciting sports events and activities coming up this term: get ready for the fun!

 
Could you be a PAL Leader?

We are currently recruiting students who are in their second year or above to be PAL Leaders

 
Guidance on using social media
Phone with whatsapp icon

Joining a Whatsapp group with your course-mates can be a great way to make friends but remember to keep professional standards!

 
Could you be the next Union President?
Series of grey x's on a lime green background

Find out more about the Officer Trustee positions!

 
22 Top Tips for Freshers
Union of Students logo on bright blue background

22 Top Tips, Advice and Opportunities for Derby Freshers

 
Black History Month Reading List

Read your way through Black History Month with this selection of fiction & non-fiction books

 
Why Should I Nominate Myself in the Elections?
Union Elections branding - a green background with a big black X in the middle, and some more transp

Nominations are open, and this is your chance to lead the Union as an Executive Officer! But why should you run? We've put together three reasons why you should nominate yourself!

 
Why I Still Love the Old Books More Than the New Ones

I’ve read a lot of books over the years, but nothing will ever beat Dork Diaries and Diary of a Wimpy
Kid. Those books were a huge part of my childhood, and honestly, I think they’re way better than a lot
of the new books kids are reading now, like Dog Man or The Bad Guys.

 
Your University Lecture Essentials

This is your chance to be the person who is always prepared for any situation!

 
Volcanoes and Wine event 07.04.25 06:30 B228

Don't miss out on the Volcanoes and Wine event on Monday the 7th of April 2025!

 
Elections Hustings 2025

On Monday 31st March we held a hustings as part of the Union Elections where we’re asking students to vote for the Executive Officers who will be in role next academic year.

 
Recommend a Friend and be in with a chance to win £100!
The Executive Officers (in order of appearance: Jack, Holly, Gabby and Pournami) sat together around

The main elections are now open and we're electing our 4 full-time paid officers (President, Vice President (Education), Vice President (Welfare) & Vice President (Activities) and we need your help finding students up for the challenge!

 
Scam Protection

All of us may be susceptible to a scam at some time.

 
Safe Spending
Various coins from different currencies strewn across a table.

Tips for spending and bringing money to the UK for our International Students.

 
Top Tips for Navigating Your Night Out
Students in a club with UV face paint on.

Nightlife is a big part of student life, so we want to share some top tips for staying safe on a night out.

 
Summary of the final online student forum of the year 23/24

The third and final Online Student Forum of the 23-24 academic year was hosted by the Union of Students and the University of Derby Online Learning team on Thursday 27th June.

 
Summer Term Update from the Sports & Physical Activity Team
Three sports councillors at the flag football give it a go session.

Get summer ready with an action-packed term of fun and memories made! Try new sports such as ultimate frisbee and flag football, play weekly social sport, take part in our Inclusive Sports events or round off with our celebration of faiths ‘Spirit in Sport’ event. There’s something for everyone.

 
This Derby Girl Can
A woman smiling in the gym. Text in a pink box that reads 'this Derby girl can'.

Since launching in 2015, the ground breaking This Girl Can campaign has positively tackled the gender activity gap, celebrating active women regardless of age, background or ability and helping change the way women think and feel about exercise.

 
Your Quick Guide to LGBTQ+ History Month
The LGBT rainbow flag raised on a flagpole against a blue sky.

It’s February, which means… Happy LGBTQ+ History Month!! Here’s just a quick guide to what this month is all about and why we celebrate it, hopefully answering some of your questions along the way!

 
Tension Boils Over as Derby 3rds Defeat Derby 4ths
The Team Derby logo printed on the sleeve of a sports kit.

Derby Men’s 3rds 2-0 Derby Men’s 4ths.

 
Women's Football 1sts Match Report
A female footballer dribbling with the ball.

Emily Brett’s stand-out performance allowed Derby University Women’s 1sts to breeze past Birmingham City 1sts in 13-0 win at Kedleston Road.

 
Housing Terminology
A large block of flats against a blue sky, taken from a low angle looking up the the building.

We've compiled a list of housing terminology to help you understand all of the terms you may come across when looking at accommodation.

 
10 iconic transgender people to remember this day 🏳️‍⚧️💙💗🤍

We remember the lives lost for choosing to live freely, and we celebrate how far we’ve come today.

 
BUCS round-up: Wednesday 25th October

There were fewer fixtures than usual in this week of BUCS, however a good number of teams still played and here is how they got on…

 
Student offer at 'Screamfest'
Four people dressed in halloween fancy dress.

University of Derby students can claim 10% off all Screamfest tickets this month, offering a frighteningly fun night out.

 
BUCS round-up: Wednesday 11th October
Women's Football match - A derby Student kicking a football

Wednesday marked the opening day of the BUCS season for our UoD sports teams, who looked to kickstart their campaigns positively.

 
Freshers, hold the booze
An image of five laughing people sitting in a living room passing around a box of pizza. Overlayed t

If you’re nervous about starting uni, just remember you’re not on your own. We want to give you some tips and tricks for navigating a booze-free Freshers Fortnight.

 
UDOL Student Forum - June 2023

The third and final Online Student Forum of the 22-23 academic year was hosted by the Union of Students and the University of Derby Online Learning team.

 
Student Voice Unleashed (updated 4th July)

What happened as Student Voice was unleashed on 25th April?

 
Shouting About Success

Phantom Radio raised over £700 through 24 Hours Live!

 
UDOL Student Forum - March 2023

The second Online Student Forum of the 22-23 academic year was hosted by the Union of Students and the University of Derby Online Learning team.

 
Why LGBTQ+ History Month is Needed

As LGBTQ+ History Month is ending, it’s a great time to reflect on why this month is needed.

 
Student-Led Services

What are they and why should I get involved?

 
Fundraising Success!

We raised over £2,500 for charity!

 
Union Elections 2023 Results

Votes have been counted, transfers transferred. Find out your new officer team for 2023/24 now!

 
Find Your Thing
Photo of society stand at Refreshers fair.

Get involved in one of our brand new societies!

 
Spring Specials Launch in Blends
A raspberry pink slushy drink is presented in a rustic glass jar, with a straw sticking out.

Find your new favourite!

 
How to claim £400 on your energy bills
Counting money

If you pay all inclusive bills on your rented property then you could be eligible!

 
BUCS round-up: Wednesday 9th November
Students playing football

It was a day of mixed emotions for the University of Derby sports teams, as many of our teams took part in cup competitions and sought to make the next round.

 
PGR (Postgraduate Research) Students: What Societies Can do for You

Welcome (back) to Derby! We hope your summer has been relaxing and/or productive.

 
Snap Elections Results

After a very successful 24 hour voting window our Snap Elections are finished.

 
A Service of Reflection on the Eve of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Funeral
Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II

An invitation to attend a Service of Reflection on the eve of Her Late Majesty’s funeral at 1715 on Sunday 18th September

 
Cinema night poll
People sat in front of a large outdoor cinema screen in the evening.

Help us to decide which films to screen during Freshers!

 
Black History Month inspired Cookbooks
Profile view of a stack of books

To celebrate Black History Month, the Afro-Caribbean Society have approved a selection of cookbooks.

 
Our Student Led Services

Find out more about Phantom Media, RAG and Enactus!

 
Activities Awards - Nominations open
Male on stage presenting an award

The Union Activities Awards are a way to celebrate the fantastic achievements of all of our Sports clubs, Societies and Student-Led Services.

 
The Climbing Club raised over £700 for charity!
Derby Union Climbing Club certificate

In May, the Climbing Club organised a charity climb 'Basecamp to Summit' to raise money for the Climbers Against Cancer charity.

 
How to manage home sickness whilst balancing university studies

It’s hard being a student at the moment. For a plethora of reasons. The switch to online learning, the limited social life, the list goes on. But one aspect in particular that isn’t being spoken about as much is home sickness. Most students who have a relationship with their family back home

 
 
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