How Academic Rep Forums Are Improving Your Course
Did you know that every undergraduate and postgraduate course at the University has at least one Course Rep?
They’re part of the academic representation structure which Bristol SU runs in partnership with the University. A system designed to help you make real change on your course and ensure that you receive high quality teaching, learning and assessment.
Whether it’s feedback on teaching, assessments, or resources, your Course Rep is your first point of contact. They work with School Reps and elected Faculty Reps to raise your ideas and feedback in meetings that are designed to put your voice at the heart of decisions and discussions.
What are Academic Rep Forums?
This year, it’s moved from the old SSLC (Student Staff Liaison Committee) format to a new structure called Student Academic Representation Forums (SARFs). These forums are split into:
- School Student Academic Rep Forums (for Course and School Reps)
- Faculty Student Academic Rep Forums (for School and Faculty Reps)
These meetings bring together students and senior academic and professional services staff to discuss what’s working, what needs improving, and how we can make your academic experience the best it can be.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just a rebrand, it’s a real shift towards more inclusive and impactful conversations. You told us you wanted clearer ways to give feedback and see results. SARFs are designed to do just that.
As one student said after attending one of our recent Student Academic Representation Network meetings;
“I realised the power to change things about the course relies not only on faculty, but on students too. Which was empowering and changed my perspective on giving feedback.”
You can make change in these meetings and students have left them feeling better about sharing their new ideas or concerns.
“If I raised an issue it was highly likely the person I might be referred to for sorting it would actually be in the room. Really felt like I actually had the chance to make the student voice heard.”
Another Said:
“I like how our ideas are accepted and put into practice.”
Meet Your Officers
Your Undergraduate Officer, Mia Stevens (left), and Postgraduate Officer, Sharan (right), are working hard behind the scenes to make this system stronger. They sit on important education boards and meet regularly with University staff to ensure your voice is heard at every level.
Mia, your Undergraduate Officer shared;
“We take real pride in our academic representation structure at Bristol because it gives students the opportunity to act as key influencers in the design and delivery of their education.”
Want to Make a Change? Start Here.
If there’s something you’d like to see improved on your course, speak to your Course Rep.
Not sure who they are? Use our Rep Finder to get connected.
If you're a first-year student, you won't have a course rep just yet. Vote to decide who yours is in the TB1 Elections from Mon 6 to Thurs 9 October - keep an eye on your inbox for more details!
Your feedback has already led to changes in assessment formats, access to resources, and improvements in communication. These forums are your space to speak up and be heard!
