This email is being sent to all taught undergraduate and postgraduate students
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Hello
This week there is a very important opportunity to get involved in shaping student voice at the University through the Students’ Union elections. Friday is the last day for candidate nominations, please do consider this! Student voice is very important to our university. The Students’ Union elections are your chance to help shape your university experience, represent your views, and campaign on the issues that matter most to students.
There are also some great events coming up focused on leadership for students of colour, events for climate justice week, and for social change as well as amazing student led cultural events at the ACCA. I am also pleased to share the good news that the new library lift is open.
There are some important dates for module selection also coming up next week, details below. Please read on for this week’s news including: | |
Your last chance to nominate leaders for student voice at the University
Nominations for the Students’ Union spring elections close on Friday, if you want to have an impact on decision making and student voice now is the time to do it. The Spring elections are when Sussex students elect the most effective and representative student leaders on campus for the year ahead. These students help shape your student experience, represent your views, and campaign on the issues that matter most. This is your chance to help shape the future of Sussex and choose who represents you.
In the spring elections, students vote for full-time officers, liberation officers, student trustees, and sports club and society committee members for the next year. These roles are central to how the Students’ Union is run and how students are represented locally and nationally. Nominations close Friday 20 February, 12 midday. No expertise is needed. Full training and development will be given and you will be supported by the SU | |
Students of Colour Leadership Programme
The Students of Colour Leadership Programme is an exciting opportunity for students of colour to build confidence, develop leadership skills and connect with peers in a supportive environment. This programme, in partnership with GRIT Breakthrough Programmes, focuses on nurturing your strengths as a leader, equipping you with practical tools, insights and experiences that can support you in student groups, society roles, community projects and future career pathways. This free two-day workshop (6 to 7 March, 10am to 4pm, Student Centre, Woodland 3) is designed to help you explore your identity, build confidence, and connect with other students of colour at Sussex.
The programme includes interactive sessions, opportunities for reflection and discussion, and space to explore what leadership means in different contexts. It has been designed to empower participants to lead with purpose and to contribute positively to the communities you are part of. |
Making your option module choices for next academic year
It is nearly time to pick your option modules for the 2026/27 academic year. The dates you can access Sussex Direct depend on your current year of study: When you can choose your modules
Browse modules before the window opens On Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 February, you will be able to use Sussex Direct in browse mode to explore the option modules available for your course next year.
Virtual waiting room To keep Sussex Direct running smoothly during this busy time, we will be using a virtual waiting room on the dates above. This helps manage demand and ensures everyone has a fair experience when selecting their modules.
Need help? If you have any issues with selecting your modules, please contact your School Office in the first instance. |
Climate Justice Week
Climate Justice Week runs from Monday 23 to Friday 27 March 2026, offering a programme of events designed to explore the intersection of climate change, social justice and collective action. Across the week there will be talks, workshops, film screenings and interactive sessions that centre voices from different communities and perspectives. These events provide a chance to deepen your understanding of climate justice, build connections with others who share your interests, and consider how you can contribute to positive change locally and beyond.
| Free event: How does change happen?
Join Dr Caroline Lucas, Professor of Practice in Environmental Sustainability, former MP and leader of the Green Party, England and Wales, at the Sussex School for Progressive Futures interactive event ‘How does change happen?’ on Wednesday 4 March 2026, 3pm to 5pm at the University of Sussex Library.
Professor Lucas will explore what works and what does not when people and movements seek to make change - whether through institutions or grassroots action.
Facilitated by Professor Peter Newell, it is open to all undergraduate and postgraduate students who want to understand how practical change occurs and what strategies can help achieve lasting impact. The format includes discussion, group work and an opportunity to share ideas and experiences.
There are only a few tickets left so register quickly. |
Sussex Musical Theatre Society presents 9 to 5 The Musical
Get ready to enjoy a lively theatre performance by the Sussex Musical Theatre Society, as they bring 9 to 5 The Musical to the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts from Thursday 26 to Saturday 28 February 2026. This production, inspired by the beloved 1980s film, features a score by Dolly Parton and tells the story of three office workers who band together to challenge workplace inequalities with humour and heart.
The show promises energetic performances, memorable songs and an entertaining storyline that celebrates teamwork, resilience and empowerment, perfect for a night out with friends or a special cultural experience on campus. Tickets and full event details are available on the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts events page.
| Choose to reuse – join the returnable cup scheme and get rewarded
You can now take part in the Sussex Uni Food returnable cup scheme and enjoy rewards for making sustainable choices on campus. When you join the scheme, you will receive four half-price hot drinks as a thank you for choosing a reusable cup over a disposable one, helping reduce waste from single-use coffee cups and support a more environmentally friendly campus culture.
The returnable cup scheme is available at participating Sussex Uni Food outlets. Once you have signed up, simply use your returnable cup when buying hot drinks to start earning your rewards. This is a simple way to make a positive environmental impact while enjoying your favourite beverages. | Spring Festival 2026
As we welcome the hopeful Spring Festival of 2026, a time of reunion, renewal, and anticipation, the Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) warmly invite all students and staff to celebrate the Year of the Horse.
On Friday 27 February 2026 from 3pm – 6pm at the Student Centre Students are welcome to drop in at any time to enjoy a variety of traditional Chinese cultural activities, including:
The celebration will conclude with the Spring Festival Gala Performance in Student Centre Woodland (6pm – 8pm), featuring music and dance, language-based arts, and cross-cultural collaborations presented by students from diverse backgrounds. All are welcome. | With best wishes,
Kate Professor Kate O'Riordan Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students) |
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| Sent by
Internal Communications, University of Sussex |
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