As elections are approaching, you might be asking yourself… what do Full-Time Officers actually do? It’s a fair question. A lot of the work happens in meetings, committees and behind-the-scenes conversations that don’t always make it onto your feed. So here’s a real snapshot of what the role looks like in practice from Holly, our VP Academic.
Hi everyone, Holly here, your VP Academic 👋
As we settle into the semester, I wanted to share some of the key things I’ve been working on behind the scenes and across campus. From academic policy to pub quizzes, it’s been a busy start and everything centres around one thing: making sure your student experience is supported, heard and strengthened.
Kicking Off with S.H.A.G. Week
We started the semester with S.H.A.G. Week (Sexual Health and Guidance), led by Cameron, and launched with a sexual health and awareness pub quiz.
It blended education with fun, mixing important conversations with general knowledge and music rounds. There were prizes, lots of laughs, and most importantly, space to learn in a way that felt open and welcoming. Creating environments where students can engage with serious topics without pressure really matters.
Widening Participation Conversations
Following a recent committee discussion, I met with staff to talk specifically about the experiences of widening participation students.
We discussed what support and initiatives are already available through the Student Union and, more importantly, how we can share these opportunities more proactively. Access to information shouldn’t depend on chance. It should be clear, visible and equitable.
Representing You Across the Sector
As part of my external role, I attended the Sparqs Tertiary Advisory Group (STAG), where we discussed quality reporting requirements for colleges and universities and how student engagement in these processes can be improved.
I shared insights from current student experiences across the sector and highlighted the importance of meaningful engagement rather than tick-box consultation. Students should help shape quality processes, not just respond to them.
School Mixers Are Back
Our interactive School Mixers made a return this semester after seeing strong attendance during Freshers’.
These sessions use people bingo and informal activities to help students connect across courses and year groups. They’re one of my favourite touchpoints because they create space to genuinely hear how your semester is going.
If you’d like to see more events like this, let us know. We build based on what you tell us.
Breaking the AI Taboo
One of my manifesto priorities is supporting students with Artificial Intelligence.
After hearing that many of you wanted more guidance and training, I worked with the Information Services team to develop new GenAI micro-courses on the Skills Hub. These Digital Literacy modules are designed to give practical, accessible support on how AI can be used appropriately in a university setting.
We know from Big 6 data that many students are already using AI, whether cautiously or curiously. What’s often missing is confidence. This is about replacing uncertainty with clarity.
I also attended the GenAI Society’s event, Re-imagining the Women in the Future of AI, where I shared how student data and insights are shaping this work. Having direct conversations with students in that space was incredibly valuable.
If AI in education is something you’re passionate about, I would love to hear from you.
1–2–1 with the Deputy Principal
I met with Tadhg O’Donnell, Deputy Principal for Education & Student Life, to discuss the ongoing Portfolio Review. This review looks at current programmes using a range of data points.
Several students have shared concerns about potential changes. As a result, I’m arranging a follow-up meeting with Tadhg and Department Officers to explore this further.
If you’re worried about the Portfolio Review, please get in touch. Your questions and concerns should be part of the conversation.
Email: union.vpacademic@hw.ac.uk
Senate: Strengthening Belonging
At Senate, I presented a global student update aligned with our priority of strengthening belonging and community.
We explored what belonging means within academic communities and where targeted work is needed. This includes support for commuter students, understanding how wellbeing varies across Schools and year groups, and identifying specific actions for groups who may be less connected.
Belonging doesn’t happen accidentally. It needs intentional work.
Have Your Say Events
We hosted new student consultation events at both Galashiels and Edinburgh campuses, working alongside various university departments.
It was brilliant to meet students face-to-face and hear how your experience is going so far. The feedback gathered will directly inform future decision-making. We remain student-first, always.
Principal Recruitment
The University is currently recruiting a new Principal and Vice-Chancellor, as Professor Richard Williams retires in September.
I had the opportunity to meet each candidate, hear about their own student experiences, and understand how that shapes their priorities. Ensuring student voice is present during leadership recruitment is crucial.
Supporting Department Officers
At our Department Officer meetings, we invited colleagues from the Academic Quality team to discuss survey anonymisation processes. This conversation was shaped directly by DO experiences within their departments.
We also used this space to check in on DO wellbeing, identify blockers, and explore how the Union can better support them in achieving their goals.
Students who represent students need support too.
Global Student Representative Body
Through weekly Global Student Representative Body meetings, we’ve been reviewing the Student Partnership Agreement. This document is a key tool for working effectively with senior leaders to achieve shared goals.
One of the priorities I’ve been pushing forward within this space is lecture recordings, ensuring accessibility and consistency for students.
Assessment Security and Student Voice
Within the University Committee for Learning & Teaching, a working group is being established to review assessment security processes.
I emphasised the importance of student involvement in this review. Students experience assessment systems first-hand and should help shape improvements.
Expansion to Saudi Arabia
At the University Committee for Quality & Standards, discussions took place regarding potential campus expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
I strongly encouraged meaningful student consultation if the proposal progresses. My role in this process is to ensure student perspectives are visible and considered.
Refreshers Welcome Fair
The Refreshers Welcome Fair was one of the highlights of the semester so far. Meeting new and returning students, speaking directly with societies about their ambitions, and hearing one-to-one feedback is always energising.
These conversations matter just as much as committee meetings.
Postgraduate Mixer
We also hosted a Postgraduate Student Mixer, creating space for connection across subjects and nationalities. From icebreakers to classic people bingo, it was about building community beyond the lecture theatre.
We’re looking into running more mixers throughout the semester. If you’d like to see that happen or get involved, let us know.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Everything I’ve shared links back to one thing: ensuring your academic experience is shaped with you, not just for you.
If there’s something you’re worried about, passionate about, or want to help improve, please reach out at union.vpacademic@hw.ac.uk
Best wishes,
Holly