Your union
The University of Bristol Students’ Union (UBU) is at the heart of the student experience. As a student of the University you will automatically become a member of UBU, which represents and supports all students at a local and national level.
UBU enables you to:
- meet other students in a different setting;
- have your say about the way the Union is run;
- get advice and be heard through clear channels of communication;
- campaign on issues that are important to you;
- develop your hobbies and interests;
- find the space you need to pursue your activities;
- make the most of your valuable leisure time;
- engage positively with the wider community.
The Richmond Building, which houses the Union and some University facilities, is undergoing a £25 million renovation which will be completed in October 2015. Student activity space will be maximised to accommodate the full spectrum of students’ needs and interests. The building will remain one of the city’s biggest gig venues and will house two remodelled theatres, a café-bar, dance studios, rehearsal rooms and the improved University swimming pool.
Activities
The UBU organises a wide range of events for all student groups; from festivals, balls and music gigs to comedy nights, awards events, cultural tours, academic talks and exclusive screenings. You can keep up to date on events and activities by visiting the UBU website.
UBU also supports over 270 projects and societies, all set up and run by students, and together covering a vast spectrum of interests, from culture to politics to sport, volunteering, food and drink, business and enterprise, and much else besides.
Joining a UBU society, student media team, volunteering project or fundraising group is a great way to meet people with similar interests, learn new skills, and enjoy a break from your studies. If you can’t find a society that appeals to you, the Union will guide you through setting up your own special interest group. For more information please see our website.
The University has some outstanding arts venues such as the Wickham Theatre in the Department of Drama (used for productions by the Department and visiting companies); the Victoria Rooms (home to the Department of Music), whose 700-seat auditorium hosts concerts by University orchestras and choirs; and the UBU’s Anson Rooms, which have been a music venue since the 1960s.
Membership of University choirs, orchestras and ensembles is open to all students whether they are reading Music or not. Auditions (where necessary) are held at the start of each session.
