Students had the chance to speak directly with University leadership at the latest SU hosted Voice it to the VC held at FCH on 3rd March and chaired by Bianca Holland. In the space questions were raised on everything from transport and accommodation to catering, AI and access to student sport.
We’ve captured the main themes put to Clare Marchant in this update as well as what the University has taken away to action from student questions
Transport Between Campuses
One of the first topics raised was transport, including whether a campus hopper-style bus or support for the 94U service could return.
University leadership explained that there are no current plans to introduce a hopper service, as it would need clear evidence of demand and a commercially viable partnership with transport providers. However, the University said it would remain open to conversations if student demand can be demonstrated.
Adjusting to City Campus
Students studying Education and Psychology, who moved from Francis Close Hall to City Campus this year, raised questions about the adjustment to the new environment.
Clare acknowledged that the transition has been a significant change and highlighted some adjustments already made following student feedback. These include reducing teaching sessions in the large open space teaching area, allowing students to bring hot drinks into the building and continuing to improve the look and feel of the space.
Clare also emphasised that City Campus is still evolving and feedback from students will continue to shape improvements.
The Future of FCH
Being held at FCH, students naturally asked about the future of the campus which is currently in discussion. The University confirmed multiple times that no decisions have been made yet. Independent property assessments are currently underway, with early findings expected in the spring. Any proposals will go through the University’s governing body before decisions are made, and a commitment was made to ensure students will be updated in good time as the process develops.
Accommodation and Pittville
Accommodation costs and quality at Pittville were another key topic. Students raised concerns about maintenance issues, including mould and some slow responses to repair requests.
University staff acknowledged these concerns and encouraged students to report issues so they can be addressed. The University committing to exploring with the accommodation provider how to reduce out-of-term prices, as accommodation is not well utilised currently during this time in part due to perceived high cost.
Food on Campus
Students also raised concerns about the lack of affordable hot food at FCH.
The University confirmed that a major review of campus catering is underway. Student feedback will play a key role in shaping what future food provision looks like, with consultation running through this term and a project led by the SU set to be announced in the coming weeks.
Student Space at City Campus
Students highlighted the lack of a dedicated student social space at City Campus and the challenge of travelling between campuses to access social spaces.
The University said it is exploring the idea of creating a student hangout space within City Campus. Bianca shared that the SU would not have enough staff to set up a permanent SU space at City Campus with the commitment now being to an SU Hub at Park and Oxstalls.
AI and the Future of Learning
Questions were also raised about how the University is approaching Artificial Intelligence in teaching with a particular focus on the environmental impact of AI given the University's values. Leadership confirmed that guidance for staff and students is being developed to help people use AI responsibly, with input from different disciplines including creative subjects.
Sports Access
Students based in Cheltenham highlighted the challenge of travelling to sports facilities in Gloucester. While the University noted that facilities cannot easily be duplicated across campuses, they confirmed that they will continue working with the Students’ Union to explore possible solutions, including travel support and partnerships with local facilities.
Thank You for Speaking Up
Events like Voice it to the VC are a key part of student voice at UoG, giving all students the chance to raise issues directly with decision-makers.
Thank you to everyone who attended and shared their views. Your feedback helps shape conversations with the University and influence future changes across campus.
That’s our last Voice it to the VC for this academic year but keep an eye out for future opportunities to take part and make your voice heard!