Issuu

BATH SPA UNIVERSITY

STUDENT

HANDBOOK 2026/27

WELCOME; we’re so glad you’re here! This is the start of a brand-new chapter of your life.

Welcome Week

Day 1 Checklist

BSU is more than just studying; it’s about exploring your creativity, being curious and building confidence.

Week 1 Checklist

Month 1 Checklist

Your Bath Spa App

Campus Life

Student Hub

Personal Safety

Food and Drink

Getting Around

Finance

Cost-of-living Support

Your Students’ Union

IT Information

Adobe Creative Campus

Student Wellbeing Services

The Library

Academic Skills (ASk)

Student Digital Learning Assistants

Careers and Employability

Go Global

We’ve created this guide to answer any questions you may have and point you in the direction of the teams and resources that can help you. Be sure to use our handy arrival checklists on pages 5, 6 and 7 to get started!

Download the MyBathSpa App to check-in your attendance to your lectures. Follow @bathspastudentlife on Instagram to get some insider information on life at BSU! Find out more on pages 8 and 9.

WELCOME

WEEK

Welcome Week is a great way to meet new people, try new things, find your way around our campuses, and most importantly, have fun!

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR WELCOME WEEK Each year we schedule lots of fun Welcome Activities to help you settle in and get the most out of your course and university life. Plus you’ll have course welcome events, where you can meet other people on your course and your course leaders.

Check the MyBathSpa app for what’s happening! Find out what’s going on at your SU over Welcome Week at: www.bathspasu.co.uk! 4 | BSU Student Handbook

DAY 1 CHECKLIST GET ORGANISED You’ll feel much more settled once you’ve unpacked and made your room feel homely.

Your Student number and date of birth to create your Bath Spa account

•

Your bank details

•

Your photographic government issued ID (e.g. driving licence or passport)

IF YOU’VE JUST MOVED TO BATH, GET SOME SUPPLIES IN! Nearby shops include the General Store on Newton Park campus, Lidl (on the Bus route), and Sainsbury’s. Quality second-hand items are available for free at our move-in reuse fair.

DOWNLOAD THE BSU APP Make sure you’ve downloaded the MyBathSpa app and logged in with your BSU credentials to access your student profile and start using the app to its full potential.

SAY HELLO! Get to know your new flatmates or neighbours - that first person you say hi to could become a friend for life!

INTERNET AND WI-FI Campus Wi-Fi is called Eduroam, and you can log in by going to http://cat.eduroam.org - when prompted, you’ll enter your username and add @ bathspa.ac.uk after it – if your username is 123456, you’ll enter 123456@bathspa.ac.uk. Residence Wi-Fi is called ResNet, just log in with your username and password; if you need to set up a device that doesn’t have a web browser like a games console, search MyServices for ‘resnet’ for more information.

VISIT THE SU The BSU Students’ Union (SU) is on Newton Park campus, next to the Gardens accommodation blocks. Grab a drink or bite to eat in the Barn, unwind in the Nook, or join the Gym! BSU Student Handbook | 5

WEEK 1 CHECKLIST FIND YOUR WELCOME WEEK SCHEDULE AND YOUR TIMETABLE Get organised and check out both your Welcome Activities such as your Course Welcome and also your Teaching Timetable for the academic year in the MyBathSpa app. If you have any issues with your teaching timetable check out the Student Hub (page 12).

PICK UP YOUR STUDENT ID CARD If you’re not living in campus accommodation bring photo ID and collect your Student ID from the following places: • •

Newton Park: Go to the Vinery (behind the Walled Garden) Locksbrook: Visit the Welcome Desk

HEAD INTO BATH CITY CENTRE Bath is famous worldwide, and for good reason. Explore for yourself and see what all the fuss is about; for our top tips on where to go, turn to our Getting Around page (16).

CHECK OUT A FAIR Some of our most exciting fairs include: the Welcome Fair, Activities Fair and the Part-Time Jobs Fair. Use your Welcome Week schedule in the app to find out more.

REGISTER WITH THE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL SERVICE It’s important that you register with the University Medical Centre or a local GP while living in Bath. Find more information on page 25. If you’re living outside of Bath, you can register with a GP on the NHS website.

GO FOR A WALK AROUND CAMPUS Head for a walk around the lake at Newton Park or along the river at Locksbrook!

6 | BSU Student Handbook

MONTH 1 CHECKLIST RECYCLE YOUR MOVING BOXES

CHECK OUT THE CAREERS SERVICE

There are many recycling bins around our campuses. If you live off campus in private accommodation, you can check your local council website for their recycling collection days.

BSU’s Careers Service supports you in finding a job during your studies and developing your skills. You can read more about them on page 29.

EXPLORE BRISTOL

SCOPE OUT THE LIBRARY

We’re just down the road from Bristol, the largest city in the South West. It’s famous for its arts and cultural scene and makes for a great day out!

The Library on Newton Park campus is the go-to spot at BSU for books, study support and advice, but it also has a whole wealth of other resources beyond academia. You can find out more about what our library can offer you on the BSU website, or on page 26.

It’s worth exploring your options and seeing what discounts you can get as a BSU student. A TOTUM card can get you money off a wide range of places, and a 16-25 railcard can get you 30% off train travel.

MAKE SURE YOUR FUNDING AND FINANCES ARE ALL SET UP

ACTIVATE YOUR ADOBE CREATIVE CLOUD Did you know that you have access to the full Adobe suite at BSU? All you need to do is log in to Adobe using your BSU email address and password.

JOIN A CLUB OR SOCIETY Our student-led clubs and societies are completely free to join for all students, so try out as many as you want. Don’t see a society you like? Check with the SU on how to start one!

Check to see if you qualify for any extra funding or scholarships on our funding pages (www. bathspa.ac.uk/funding). Our Finance team can offer guidance, and our Disability Advisors can help with setting up your Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). Did you know you can sign up to BlackBullion? It can help manage your money and build good money habits. If you’re eligible you’ll also need to use it to apply for your BSU Bursary within eight weeks of starting. Scan for our eligibility criteria: 7

YOUR BATH SPA APP 10 things you didn’t know about the My Bath Spa App

The My Bath Spa App is a one-stop shop for campus life. Here are 10 things students can do using the app:

4 TRACK THE BUS

The bus tile has information about the routes, timetables, tickets and discounts, and most importantly, a way to track the live bus location.

1 ACCESS YOUR TIMETABLE

Once timetables are available you can access them via the timetable tile in the app. You can use this tile to stay on track with your lectures and seminars and to check-in your attendance to your class.

5 ANSWER QUICK POLLS

Quick polls are a great tool for the University to hear from its student body in a short and snappy way. These polls can influence key University decisions, so they are well worth engaging with!

2 ORDER FOOD FROM ON-CAMPUS CATERING OUTLETS

You can order food in the My Bath Spa App straight to wherever you are on campus! Simply click on the ‘Find’ tile in the app and quickly see all your catering options, as well as ALL university services.

6 NEED HELP NOW

The ‘Need Help Now’ tile is incredibly important. You can find Security’s number, how to access 24/7 wellbeing support, housing support and information on the safe taxi scheme.

3 ACCESS STUDENT NEWS

To get started, simply open the app and click on the ‘Uni News’ icon in your ‘Extras’ tile.

7 FIND OUT ABOUT EVENTS, UPDATES AND OPPORTUNITIES WITH BANNERS

These ‘virtual flyers’ appear on the homepage and change regularly with upcoming events and opportunities available to the BSU community.

8 | BSU Student Handbook

STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUR UNI NEWS Designed specifically for current students, Your Uni News features a regularly updated news feed, to get started, simply open the MyBathSpa app and click on the ‘Uni News’ tile. Want to stay in the loop? You can also access Your Uni News on desktop!

Each week, you’ll also receive Your Weekly Uni News straight to your Bath Spa email inbox. This bite-sized newsletter highlights the key events, updates and reminders for the week ahead.

Simply follow these steps: 1.

Head to bathspaonline.sharepoint.com/ sites/YourUniNews.

Click the star icon in the top right corner to follow the page.

8 QUICK ACCESS TO THE STUDENTS’ UNION

Find out about the SU societies and sports clubs, upcoming events, their advice centre and much more.

9 GIVE FEEDBACK AND ASK QUESTIONS 24/7

You can ﬁnd the App by searching Bath Spa University in the App Store or Play Store.

Unitu is our student feedback platform, where students can ask questions, raise ideas, offer praise and let us know of any issues they may be having.

10 BOOK A ROOM ON CAMPUS FOR PROJECT WORK This tile allows students and staff to easily book a space on campus, whether it’s for a project, group work or a meeting.

BSU Student Handbook | 9

CAMPUS

LIFE Our campuses are the heart of our community. You’ll find everything you need to study, socialise and make the most of student life right on your doorstep.

NEWTON PARK AND LOCKSBROOK Newton Park is BSU’s largest campus; you’ll find the Commons building here, which houses our specialist classrooms, study spaces, studios, and Cafe Commons. The lakeside walk on campus is a popular spot for many students, especially on a hot summer day. Newton Park is home to the University Theatre and the SU, where you can find the Barn, Nook and the SU Gym. You’ll also find The General Store next to the Refectory. Locksbrook is our state-of-the-art design space with specialist studios, workshops, and open workspaces all throughout the building. It’s located along the River Avon, which makes for a lovely walk, and Locksbrook also houses the BSU art shop. You can explore both our campuses through our handy interactive living map. Scan the QR code to check it out:

BSU LONDON Did you know, we also have two campuses in London at Hackney and Canary Wharf? BSUL extends beyond the city of Bath, we also have a campus in central London: Bath Spa University London, or BSUL for short. Located in the vibrant and bustling borough of Hackney, near the Hoxton tube station, BSUL extends our flourishing community beyond the rolling hills of Bath. 10 | BSU Student Handbook

LIVING IN

HALLS Living in University Accommodation can be an exciting experience and a great way to meet new people. Some suggestions to help you settle in: •

Get involved with our range of social events

•

Speak with our Campus Life Ambassadors to get tips on living in Bath

•

Use a living agreement with your housemates to open up discussions on how you would like to live as a group

STUDENT LIFE Want to keep up with all things BSU? Be sure to follow @bathspastudentlife on Instagram for what’s on, University news, announcements and more.

Visit our Living with Us pages to get more information.

STUDENT VOICE We always want to hear from you with suggestions about improvements to your university experience and any new ideas. Check out Unitu, our student feedback platform, look out for quick polls on the MyBathSpa app, and keep an eye out for surveys where you can share your thoughts on your learning experience throughout the year. BSU Student Handbook | 11

STUDENT

HUB

HELP AND SUPPORT ON MYSERVICES

The Student Hubs are drop-in spaces that offer you the opportunity to speak to friendly staff members about any query you may have.

MyServices is BSU’s self-service portal where you can find support for most queries, including issues with your course, assessments, timetables, finance, Wi-Fi, and more. You can access it through the BSU website or on the MyBathSpa App.

There is a Student Hub space at both Newton Park campus, ground floor of Commons (opposite G23 and G24), and at Locksbrook, in room G.18 off The Street.

You can also download your student status letter from MyServices once you have registered. To use MyServices, enter keywords for the topic you need help with into the search bar, and then see if there’s already an answer to your query. If there isn’t, or you need further help, look for a ‘log a call’ button on the page related to your topic to submit a request for support.

MEET NEWT

Newt is BSU’s support chatbot: chat.bathspa. ac.uk. Get help with technology, your studies, finance and more. If you need help, this is where you get it!

GOT A QUESTION?

Scan to speak to Newt, our friendly AI chatbot! 12 | BSU Student Handbook

PERSONAL

SAFETY

At BSU Safeguarding is everybody's business and includes children, adults at risk (sometimes referred to as 'vulnerable adults'), radicalisation, gender-based violence, harassment and hate crime. If you have a concern about a member of our University community, even if you are not sure the concern constitutes safeguarding, please email safeguarding@bathspa.ac.uk.

Bath is one of the safest cities in the country for students, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be vigilant. There are several things you can do to help ensure that you and your friends continue to stay safe whilst you’re out: 1.

If you’ve lost your phone or wallet, the SU’s Safe Taxi Scheme, partnered with Veezu taxis, can help you get home safely.

2. Don’t walk home alone; walk with friends on well-lit roads. 3. Ensure your mobile phone is charged. 4. Stay away from the river, particularly if you’ve been drinking. 5. Never leave your drink unattended: use a bottle stop or cover whilst you’re out; you can collect one for free from the SU bar. 6. Always check the name of your taxi driver against your booking before getting into a pre-booked taxi. If you’re unable to book a taxi online or on the phone, go to an official taxi rank. 7.

Let someone know where you’re going before you head out.

8. Educate yourself and your friends on the impact of alcohol and drugs and making informed choices.

IN AN EMERGENCY OR IF SOMEONE IS SERIOUSLY INJURED,

CALL

999

OR CALL 111 FOR NHS MEDICAL

Our security team are present across all campuses acting as emergency assistance or first aid when required. If you’re concerned for the health, safety or the wellbeing of yourself or others whilst you’re on campus and require urgent assistance, out of hours, please call Security. BSU Security line: 01225 875555. BSU Student Handbook | 13

FOOD AND

LOCKBROOK ROAD CAFE

DRINK

Barista-trained staff serve our locally-supplied Bristol Twenty Coffee, plus you can get food cooked to order here, along with snacks and pastries.

THERE ARE MULTIPLE OPTIONS FOR FOOD ACROSS OUR CAMPUSES, THESE INCLUDE:

THE REFECTORY AT NEWTON PARK

STUDENT EATS IN THE REFECTORY

THE INTERVAL @ NEWTON PARK

Based in the centre of Newton Park you can find home comforts such as lasagne, fish and chips, roast dinners along with food from different continents on our A Taste Of Counter.

A budget friendly counter that serves one hot meal a day. This option is also available at Locksbrook and Sion Hill.

Grab a coffee and a pastry on your way to Commons.

CAFE SION Here you’ll find a range of food and drinks on offer; including breakfast baguettes, pastries, jacket potatoes, pasties, sausage rolls, pizza slices, homemade soup, as well as made-toorder salads, baguettes and meals of the day. 14 | BSU Student Handbook

THE GENERAL STORE AT NEWTON PARK You will find it next to the Refectory, the General Store serves as a local grocery store for students living or studying on campus.

THE BARN IN THE STUDENTS' UNION

BRING YOUR OWN!

This is the perfect venue to hang out with friends, catch some great events and grab a bite to eat.

Over 2.5 million takeaway cups are used and thrown away each year in the UK. Here’s how you can help: •

If you’re sitting in, enjoy your drink in our porcelain cups or glassware

•

Get a 30p discount if you bring your own reusable mug

•

Receive a discount on food when you bring your own takeaway box for hot food

•

Collect stamps each time you bring your own cup or box with our stamp cards. A full card will earn you a free hot drink or meal.

OPENING HOURS Opening hours for our outlets vary, so please check our social media for up-to-date information. We also share offers, new menus and more on our social media pages.

CAFE COMMONS Located on the ground floor of Commons, you can grab a drink, lunch or snack. Plus there's always a hot option for you here too.

FOOD ALLERGIES & INTOLERANCES We are committed to providing healthy and fresh food for customers with different dietary requirements. Please speak to a member of staff if you need guidance with any of our products. 15

BSU Student Handbook | 15

GETTING

AROUND

Bath is the perfect student city. Not too big, not too small. Read on to find out how to confidently get around.

BY BUS

There are three bus routes running to Bath Spa University campuses, the U3, U4 and U5

BY TRAIN

Bath’s central train station, Bath Spa, is located on a direct line to London Paddington, Bristol, Portsmouth, and Cardiff. There’s also a smaller station at Oldfield park, you can catch a direct train to Bristol and Keynsham from here.

BY BICYCLE

Bath is full of safe cycle paths both within and beyond the city centre. At BSU we have a lot of storage space for your bikes, including space near our Halls of Residence and our new secure bike storage in the lambing shed.

PARKING AND CARS

On-street parking in Bath is extremely limited, with strictly enforced resident parking zones. We therefore strongly encourage our students to not bring a car to university and instead use public transport, cycling or walking to get around. Permits are available on campus for those with exceptional circumstances and Blue Badge holders. Please see our website for more details.

16 | BSU Student Handbook

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Access FirstBus website here

Illustration by Rosie Yates yatesrosieart

WALK THROUGH HISTORY The entire city of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; everywhere you step, you’re following the footsteps of thousands of past Bathonians. The city walking trail takes you past all the very best sights of the city, like the Abbey, the Assembly Rooms, and the Royal Crescent.

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS Bath might be bustling with shops, restaurants, and bars, but it’s also home to many peaceful green spaces. Hike up to the Bath Skyline, or laze in front of the Royal Crescent at Victoria Park and take in the views.

5 THINGS SPOT THE FILMING LOCATION Bath has become renowned as a sought-after film location and hosts its own Film Festival every year. Why not go on a tour of your favourite Bridgerton spots, or see where Timothee Chalamet danced in Wonka?

TO DO IN

BATH

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES, MANORS AND MORE Did you know that BSU students have free access to almost all the heritage sites in Bath? With your BSU student ID card, you can tour the Roman Baths, Victoria Art Gallery, and Holburne Museum for free, and get student discount at other iconic sites.

COZY CAFE CULTURE There are so many picturesque spots in the city centre to grab the perfect cuppa, coffee, chai, smoothie, milkshake... whatever takes your fancy! Treat yourself to a tasty pastry and delicious drink and take in the sights and sounds of the city.

BSU Student Handbook | 17

FINANCE YOUR TUITION The amount that you pay for your course each year is subject to annual review, and can vary depending on whether you’re a home, international, postgraduate, or part-time student. If you’ve applied for a tuition fee loan through a funding body (i.e. Student Finance England), this will be paid directly to the University in three instalments. Your tuition loan won’t ever enter your personal bank account. Please be aware, you need to apply for funding in the Spring of every new year of your course, even if your circumstances haven’t changed. With all financial matters, we strongly encourage our students to check the BSU webpages, and your relevant funding body’s website, for further information. If you have not set up Student Finance yet and need a loan to pay your tuition, please contact our finance team through MyServices or visit us in the Student Hub!

SCHOLARSHIPS, GRANTS AND BURSARIES BSU has many different awards in place to help support you financially throughout your studies. Read through the Scholarships & Bursaries webpages and apply to any relevant to you. If you’re eligible for the Undergraduate Scholarship, you’ll receive your payment in January 2027. You’ll hear if you’ve qualified for the award within the first four weeks of enrolling for the 26/27 academic year. Bath Spa University is providing annual bursary awards of £1,050 to eligible new students joining us from the 2026/27 academic year. You must apply for the bursary within 8 weeks of your course start date, successful students will receive their payment in March 2027. Applications must be submitted via Blackbullion (www.blackbullion.com). Please see our scholarships webpage for how to apply.

YOUR MAINTENANCE LOANS If you qualify and have applied for a maintenance loan, this gets sent to you in three separate instalments throughout the year. You’ll need to register and enrol with BSU before you receive your first payment, so make sure you do this as soon as you can!

The Student Finance maintenance loan instalment payment dates for 2025/2026 are: • • • 18

September 2026 January 2027 April 2027

18 | BSU Student Handbook

CONTACT FINANCE: Contact our teams through MyServices or chat to us via Newt.

If you’re in student accommodation at BSU, you can choose to pay your fees in either 3 or 8 instalments. You’ll have until 13 October 2026 to pay your licence fee.

YOUR GUIDE TO FEE'S AND FUNDING AT BSU Please see our Student finance handbook: This handbook provides financial information and guidance on payment of all fees and fines whilst studying at Bath Spa University or one of Bath Spa University Partner Colleges. It also covers instalment dates, deadlines, sanctions and penalties for non-payment as well as information on the various funding schemes that the University has on offer.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FUND The Bath Spa University Financial Support Fund provides limited discretionary financial support to any full time home UK students who are in financial difficulties due to unexpected circumstances, to enable them to meet basic needs and help them to reach the end of their course. Visit the webpage for details of eligibility and how to apply.

ACCOMMODATION BURSARY For the 2026/27 academic year, we’re providing UK students whose household income is £20,000 or less with a £1,000 bursary to put towards rental payments and other housing-related expenses. UK students whose household income is between £20,000 and £30,000 are eligible to receive a £500 bursary. If eligible the accommodation bursary payments will be made at the end of January 2027. This bursary is only applicable to first-year undergraduate students living in BSU-managed or thirdparty nominations halls of residence. If you’re in private accommodation, you won’t be eligible. If you have any questions, please contact the Accommodation Team: accommodation@bathspa.ac.uk.

COST-OF-LIVING SUPPORT HERE TO SUPPORT YOU We’ve implemented a number of savings for BSU students: •

Student Eats offers a hot meal and drink at the Refectory for under £5

•

Free sustainable period products in most women’s and gender-neutral toilets across the University

•

Laundry prices capped at £2.50 for a wash and £1.80 for a dry for two years

•

Food larders are based in the laundry rooms of Sophia (near Gardens), Commons, and Locksbrook’s The Street.

BLACKBULLION We are partnered with BlackBullion, (www.blackbullion. com) an easy-to-use digital learning platform that can help our students to be smart with money, covering topics such as getting money ready for university, student life, budgeting and saving. You will also be able to apply for some of our bursaries and support funds through Blackbullion. 19

BSU Student Handbook | 19

YOUR

STUDENTS’ UNION

Your Students’ Union (SU) is all about you! The SU is here to represent and champion every BSU student, helping you make the most of your university experience. They run a year-round programme of events and opportunities for everyone to get involved with, so there’s always something to do. You could become a course rep, join a club or society, run an event, lead a campaign, or do some fundraising – the choice is yours!

STUDENTS’ UNION ADVICE CENTRE

YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS

The SU Advice Centre can help you with a variety of issues including housing, sexual health, your course, and your general wellbeing. They provide free, confidential, impartial, and independent advice to all Bath Spa students. To book a phone, video or in-person appointment, email su-advice@bathspa.ac.uk or visit bathspasu.co.uk/advice.

The Sabbatical Officers (or Sabbs, for short) work to support your interests at university. They’re elected every year, and act as the leading representative body for student concerns at BSU.

YOUR SPACES The SU has great spaces to eat, drink and unwind. The Barn is the perfect place to catch up with friends, enjoy events, and grab affordable food and drink, with options for all dietary requirements and regular student-friendly deals. Next door, The Nook offers a cosy space to reheat food, study, play games, or relax between lectures. Upstairs, you’ll find the Gym. With affordable memberships and friendly, qualified instructors, it’s a convenient place to stay active, whether you’re a regular gym-goer or just getting started.

20 | BSU Student Handbook

YOUR SABBATICAL OFFICERS FOR 2025/2026 ARE: Students’ Union President Millie O’Sullivan Adams m.osullivanadams@bathspa.ac.uk Vice President Sports & Activities Maddie Simmons m.simmons@bathspa.ac.uk Vice President Inclusion Mia Latkovic m.latkovic@bathspa.ac.uk Vice President Education Evie Trembath e.trembath@bathspa.ac.uk You can contact your Sabbs via email or on Instagram @bathspasabbs

CLUBS AND

SOCIETIES The SU supports over 70 sports, academic, interest and faith clubs and societies. From American Football to Musical Theatre, Dungeons and Dragons and Cheerleading, there really is something for everyone. Can’t find the society for you? Talk to the SU about how to start one! Clubs and societies are completely free to join and the SU also has a Participation Fund you can apply to if there are any costs stopping you from getting involved.

You can read more about the SU on their website www.bathspasu.co.uk, and make sure to give them a follow @bathspasu on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To check out what’s on at the SU and look through their lists of societies, just scan the QR code:

Inclusion and Diversity at the Students' Union The Students' Union is a student-led organisation dedicated to representing, supporting, and empowering every student. Throughout the year, the Students' Union works with Societies, Student Inclusion Leads, Student Community Leaders, and Sabbatical Officers to deliver a wide range of events, celebrations, and awareness campaigns for our diverse student communities. These include national campaigns, cultural celebrations, and religious festivals and observances, such as: • Black History Month • Diwali • LGBTQIA+ History Month • Holi • International Women's Day • Pride Month ...and many more. If you'd like to get involved, support an event, start a campaign of your own, or suggest a celebration or cause you'd like to see recognised, we'd love to hear from you. Contact su-campaigns@bathspa.ac.uk or speak to your Vice President Inclusion. 21

BSU Student Handbook | 21

IT INFORMATION The IT Service Desk is available to help you with any technological issues you may face during your time with us, you can contact them via MyServices. They can help with: • Connecting to the Wi-Fi • Accessing services such as Microsoft 365, Adobe, Ultra (the virtual learning environment) and email • Setting up the multi-factor authentication (MFA) • Printing and scanning You can find out all about the systems and services managed by IT Services on our Student IT Induction Guide, or search on MyServices. For assistance, you should first log a call on MyServices to request support and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. You can also visit us in person at The Student Hub in Twiverton, Newton Park or G.19 at Locksbrook Campus.

YOUR BSU ACCOUNT

Your username is your 6-digit student ID, and your BSU email address usually is your name, surname and your year of enrolment. During registration, your BSU email address is assigned and you set your password. You can reset your password if you forget it at https:// password.bathspa.ac.uk.

MULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION (MFA)

To login to BSU apps and services you’ll need to set up multi-factor authentication. Simply download the Microsoft Authenticator app on to your phone and link it with your BSU account!

MICROSOFT OFFICE 365 FOR EMAILS, APPS AND CLOUD STORAGE

All students get access to Office 365. To access it, go to https://office.com and log in with your Bath Spa account. You can also download the apps directly to your device! 22

22 | BSU Student Handbook

PRINTING AND SCANNING

To print, go to https://print.bathspa.ac.uk and upload the files you want to print. To collect, find a printer on campus, swipe your ID card and choose the files you wish to print. Check out our IT guide and Induction:

Need IT support? Chat to Newt

Adobe

Creative Campus Becoming a part of an Adobe Creative Campus means gaining access to the entire suite of Adobe Creative Cloud with industry-leading apps such as Photoshop, InDesign, Adobe Express and more. And with access to millions of royalty-free Adobe Stock images, you’ll never have to scour the web for the perfect image again. With Adobe you’ll learn to communicate more effectively, build your personal brand, prepare for the challenges of an increasingly digital world, and achieve your goals as a student here and beyond. Every student on our campus can take courses and earn certified badges from Adobe, showing future employers that you have essential skills in communicating visually, establishing a social media presence, and understanding generative AI.

How can I get involved and work with Adobe? Sign up to be an Adobe Ambassador, keep up to date with our Adobe events via My Profile on the MyBathSpa app and keep an eye out for Adobe on your campus.

How do I access my Adobe Creative Suite? Go to the Creative Cloud website and sign in with your Bath Spa University email, username and password. Download the Creative Cloud application, and then install whichever applications you want to use.

WHATEVER THE WORLD OF WORK THROWS YOUR WAY, YOU’LL BE READY.

STUDENT

WELLBEING

SERVICES Student Wellbeing Services (SWS) offers a wide range of effective solutions for any issues you may have including mental health, wellbeing concerns, finance, disability support, and much more. Connect with SWS through MyWellbeing to book appointments, sign up for events and send queries.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Our team of professional Mental Health Practitioners are available for advice, guidance and support to help you with your mental health whilst you’re here with us.

DISABILITY SERVICE

Our dedicated Disability Advisors are here to provide advice and guidance to our disabled and neurodivergent students (you do not need a diagnosis). They can talk to you about gaining a diagnosis so that you can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) which is a grant towards your studies that doesn’t need to be paid back! They set up Academic Access Plans (AAPs) that include reasonable adjustments and much more.

WELLBEING ADVICE

Our Wellbeing Advisors offer non clinical support to suit your needs, with guidance on anything from finance to homesickness to housing concerns. They also support care experienced, foyer leavers, estranged students, young adult carers or GTRSB (Gypsy, Traveller, Roma, Showperson or Boater) students. Check out the SWS webpages or MyWellbeing for more information.

GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE

The University Medical Service is committed to providing non-judgemental and confidential medical care to all our patients, including those seeking gender-affirming treatment through our trans*-friendly practitioners. We can change your gender on your patient record and assist you with transferring your medical records if needed. 24 | BSU Student Handbook

NEED HELP NOW? Student Assistance Programme provided by our partners Health Assured is a confidential telephone service that gives BSU students immediate access to support 24/7. Just call 0800 028 3766. Always call 999 if someone’s life is at risk. Have a crisis that you cannot explain in English? The Helpline is available in over 200 languages, so when calling, if you need to speak to someone in a certain language, just ask the advisor. The Wisdom App can help you track your wellness and improve your mental health, among other things. Use code MHA173635 to get the app.

TRANS* AND NON-BINARY SUPPORT

BSU are committed to creating a fair and inclusive environment for all our students, including anyone who identifies as transgender, non-binary, or is questioning their gender identity. We can help with practical aspects like changing your name on University systems and talking to staff about your pronouns, as well as supporting you through treatments and providing a safe space to discuss any questions that you may have.

FACILITATED DISCUSSIONS

Facilitated Discussions is a voluntary, confidential, and impartial service that helps students resolve conflicts in a structured and supportive way. Whether it’s a disagreement with a housemate, a group issue in accommodation, or a personal dispute, Facilitated Discussions provides a safe space to find solutions that work for everyone involved. Find out more and how to book an appointment with a Wellbeing Advisor by visiting the Facilitated Discussions pathway on MyWellbeing.

YOUR HEALTH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL SERVICE

We encourage all our students to register with a medical service whilst living in Bath. Fairfield Park Health Centre provides the University Medical Service at Newton Park Campus. They have appointments available during term-time in the Sophia building at Newton Park, and all year round at the Fairfield Park Health Centre.

CARE DOGS

BSU are lucky enough to have registered care dogs! All our lovely pups are available for drop-in sessions and wellbeing walks. You can find out more about BSU’s furry friends on the BSU website and head to MyWellbeing to see when you can meet one.

You can register directly with Fairfield on their website, you can also register during your registration with BSU.

www.fairﬁeldparkhc.co.uk KEEP UP WITH YOUR VACCINATIONS

If you have not had the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccination, especially if you are from outside the UK, we strongly advise you to book an appointment at your local surgery and get it. Meningitis is a serious illness and can be life-threatening. Please check you are up to date with your vaccinations and if not, contact your local GP or the University Medical Service.

REPORT AND SUPPORT Report and Support is an online reporting tool for staff and students at BSU. If you see or experience something that is not OK, you can submit a named or anonymous report, and request support from one of our advisors.

CHAPLAINCY

Our Chaplaincy team is here to ensure a culture of spiritual curiosity and inclusion for students at Bath Spa University, whatever your faith or world view. Our chaplains are always happy to meet new people, and are always around for a chat. Check out the Chaplaincy website for a timetable of events. You can visit the chaplaincy in Main House or get in touch via email: chaplains@bathspa.ac.uk

MYWELLBEING

SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND DOMESTIC ABUSE You can find information and advice including support offered by our Sexual Violence and Domestic Abuse Caseworkers

Scan to access Student Wellbeing Services

BSU Student Handbook | 25

THE LIBRARY The Library is here to support you throughout your time at Bath Spa. Whether you need a quiet place to study, help finding resources for an assignment, or someone to point you in the right direction, we’re here to help. The University Library is at Newton Park, with in-person support also available at the Locksbrook Student Hub and online. The Library is open 8am to 10pm, seven days a week during term time. You can contact us in person, by email, by phone, or through our 24/7 online chat service.

STUDY SPACES There are over 300 study spaces, including quiet study areas, spaces with PCs, and bookable rooms for group work. The Sensory Study Room offers a quieter, lower-stimulation study space that can be booked and adjusted to suit different study preferences. The Adobe Creative Lab is also based in the Library, where all students can access specialist software and equipment for creative projects.

If you’re unsure where to start we are here to help you feel confident using the Library.

RESOURCES TO HELP WITH YOUR STUDIES The Library gives you access to a wide range of resources to support your course, including e-books, academic journals, databases, print books, DVDs and music scores. Many are available online, so you can use them wherever you are, at any time. Your Ultra module pages will also link to resource lists for your course, helping you find the books, chapters and articles your tutors recommend. The Library also provides resources linked to wellbeing, personal interests and wider reading. Your Bath Spa login gives you access to online resources such as Box of Broadcasts, Kanopy and the National Theatre Collection. To find out more, visit the Library home page and click on ‘Databases A-Z’.

SUBJECT LIBRARIANS Each School has a dedicated Subject Librarian who can help you develop your research skills and make the most of the Library’s resources. They can help you find good quality information for assignments, dissertations and research projects, use databases and journals, and understand your module resource lists. You can find your Subject Librarian by visiting the Library home page and clicking on ‘Subject Resources A-Z’. You can also book a one-to-one appointment, either in person or online.

You can borrow print books by visiting the Library and using your student ID card. You don’t need to visit Newton Park to borrow Library books. You can use Click & Collect to request books for collection from Locksbrook or Sion Hill and return them there when you’re finished. Scan here to access Databases A-Z: 26 | BSU Student Handbook

Scan here to access the Subject Resources A-Z:

YOUR LEARNING SUPPORT Supporting you throughout your studies is our top priority. Our professional service teams can offer you advice, guidance and resources depending on what you need.

ACADEMIC ACCESS PLANS (AAPS) An AAP is a plan of inclusive adjustments that academics apply to their teaching to make all learning accessible. These include lectures being recorded and extra time for exams (if you have them!). Students may also have Non Standard Reasonable Adjustments (NSRA) that are more bespoke and responsive to individual needs. A Disability Advisor can talk to you about these to make sure that your plan is right for you. Academics can talk to you and make adjustments too, but these will need to be shared back to the Disability Service. Please book to speak to a Disability Advisor via MyWellbeing.

DISABILITY ADVISORS Disability Advisors can talk to you about your transition from school to university if you received support at school or college. They are here to listen to you and help you take the right steps to ensure that you have a positive experience here with us. They can support you throughout your studies and can be a good link between you and your academics. They can also talk to you about our Specific Learning Difference Pathway for dyslexia or ADHD and Disabled Students’ Allowance. You might also be interested in joining Autwell, our Autism Wellbeing group. Take a look on MyWellbeing for the dates, times and locations of Autwell and our other student events.

THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE UNIT (ELU) If English is not your first language and you feel worried about your ability to communicate or your academic writing, the ELU are here for you. Our teaching and support focuses on developing your English language skills through individual tutorials, short courses, and language surgeries at our offices in the Gatehouse at Newton Park. If you’d like to know more, please email elu@bathspa.ac.uk, or come see us in our office at GH.101.

ACADEMIC SKILLS (ASk) The Academic Skills service (Ask) is a resource for the whole University. They are here to support you with your assignments, at every stage of your time in BSU. Based in Commons, the ASk team can help you to excel. Whether you would like some feedback on your writing or help with statistics they offer a range of support both in person and online. These include: • • • • •

One-to-one feedback on your assignments Academic and digital skills workshops Advice on referencing and using AI Help with statistics tools such as Excel and JASP Drop-in support with our Peer Learning Development Assistants (term-time)

You can book an appointment with a member of the ASk team either online or in person, at Newton Park or Locksbrook. Go to the webpage for more details and to book a workshop or appointment. www.bathspa.ac.uk/students/ask/

BSU Student Handbook | 27

STUDENT DIGITAL LEARNING ASSISTANTS (SDLAS) The SDLAs provide friendly peer support in using all the digital tools you need for your learning at BSU. The SDLAs can help you with: • • • • • • •

Ultra (the Virtual Learning Environment) Submitting assignments Working with Adobe tools such as Express Learning how to use Microsoft 365 apps including Word and Excel Organising your BSU email account Using generative AI Downloading and using accessibility software.

They are available for drop-ins and booked appointments during term-time, both online and in-person, at Newton Park in the Commons (Mon – Fri) and Locksbrook on The Street (Tues & Thurs). For more information and to book an appointment please visit our webpage:

28 | BSU Student Handbook

CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY AT BSU Whether you already know what you want to do or have no idea yet, BSU’s Careers service is here to help support you, highlight your skills and get you to where you want to be! The online careers portal MyCareer is a space where you can explore at your own pace. You’ll find 24/7 resources to help with CVs, applications and interviews, as well as part-time jobs, BSU exclusive internships, events, skills tracking and opportunities to connect with employers. You can get started before you arrive at Bath Spa by selecting “Pre-Arrival Student” and signing up using your personal email address. No deadlines. No pressure. Just support whenever you’re ready to use it. And when you join on campus, you’ll also be able to visit the Skills and Careers Space in Commons at Newton Park and chat to the team in person.

MyCareer BSU Student Handbook | 29

Go Global CERTIFICATE IN GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP Gain an international, interdisciplinary perspective with a guaranteed grant of up to £1000 for a placement abroad. Meet new people and make friends by taking Global Citizenship alongside your undergraduate course. Apply by midday 23 September 2026

Check out the QR code for more information: 30 | BSU Student Handbook

Our Go Global Team provides opportunities to study, work, and undertake research worldwide throughout your time at BSU.

What international opportunities are available? •

Semester Abroad

•

Summer Schools

•

Work placements abroad

•

International research placements goglobal@bathspa.ac.uk bathspagoglobal

SEMESTER ABROAD

Find out more

In your second year, you can spend a semester studying abroad at one of our 40+ partner universities worldwide. Check out our website to see where you could go for your subject! You will need to apply in the first year of your undergraduate degree, by Midday on Wednesday 10 February 2027.

Come and talk to us! One of the team will be at Locksbrook every Monday in the Street, and you can drop into our office at Newton Park any weekday between 10am and 3pm. We're in Main House, room G.02.

“It was quite literally the best 6 months ever, and I wish I could do it again. I made close friends who I know I will keep in touch with for many years, from all around the world! I got the opportunity to go on so many adventures, cabin trips, camping trips, swims, hikes, skiing and so much more– memories that I’ll keep forever! The actual university in Volda is so advanced, and I learnt so many new skills that now supplement my learning back at BSU.” - Lois Brewer, Semester Abroad at Volda University, Norway

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CAMPUS ADDRESSES Newton Park: Bath Spa University, Newton Park, Newton St Loe, Bath, BA2 9BN Locksbrook: Locksbrook Rd, Bath, BA1 3EL

NEED HELP NOW Student Assistance Programme provided by our partners Health Assured is a confidential telephone service that gives BSU students immediate access to support 24/7. Just call 0800 028 3766.