Month: August 2026

Disabled student support at UWE Bristol: 10 things you need to know

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Take a look at the video above by our Disability Team on the 10 things you need to know.

1. You belong at UWE Bristol

We welcome disabled students at UWE Bristol. Around 10,000 students have disclosed a disability, long‑term health condition, mental health condition, or are neurodivergent. Being disabled is a normal part of our student community, and support is available to help you take part fully in your course and university life.

2. You need to request reasonable adjustments

If you haven’t already, you can contact us to upload evidence, and request reasonable adjustments. You can also contact us via MyStudentLife if:

  • you don’t have evidence
  • your circumstances change
  • you have questions about support
  • you’re not sure what adjustments might help

There are deadlines in place for you to apply for reasonable adjustments to exams and to coursework deadlines. Make sure you request reasonable adjustments before the deadline.

3. You need to apply before adjustment deadlines

There are deadlines in place for you to apply for reasonable adjustments to exams and to coursework deadlines. Make sure you request reasonable adjustments before the deadline.

You can check which reasonable adjustments you have in place on your student record.

4. Coursework deadline adjustments

If you have a coursework deadline adjustment, you will need to request it separately for each individual coursework submission. Use our Reasonable adjustment to coursework deadline request form.

Please ensure that you apply before 14:00 on the original deadline date. Requests that are received during the late submission window will not be accepted.

5. If you want to inform your teaching staff, create an impact statement

An impact statement is a short paragraph that explains how your disability affects you in your studies. It helps your teaching staff understand what support you might need, without you having to explain your situation repeatedly.

Take a look at our example impact statements and create one that works for you.

6. You need to keep a check on your disability information on MYUWE

You can view your disability information on MYUWE, including:

  • your disability disclosure(s)
  • your impact statement
  • any reasonable adjustments that are in place

You can check this information as soon as you are registered.  It’s worth checking regularly and letting us know if anything needs updating.

7. You can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) if you’re eligible

If you’re a UK student, you may be eligible for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). This is government funding that can pay for:

  • specialist equipment (for example, software or ergonomic equipment)
  • study‑related support
  • training to use the equipment

The process includes a needs assessment to look at what will help you most. Apply for DSA >

8. Library and placement support is available to you

The Library offers a range of inclusive study support, including:

  • accessible learning resources (including alternative formats)
  • skills sessions open to all students
  • one to one help and guidance on all aspects of using the library, study skills and assistive technology

Library services for disabled users >

If you are on a Health or Education programme that has a professional placement element and you are a disabled student or the primary carer of a disabled person, support is available:

  • If you are neurodivergent, please read our Neurodivergence Placement Guidance for Students.
  • If you are concerned about your mental health on placement, please find advice and strategies in our wellbeing placement guidance: Wellbeing placement guidance
  • If you need bespoke reasonable adjustments to access your placement, please speak to your tutor to request an Access to Placement Plan. They will have a detailed conversation with you to discuss any barriers.

9. Careers support for disabled students

UWE Careers and Enterprise offers tailored support for disabled students, including guidance on:

  • Developing your career ideas and making plans
  • Access to work, and finding work and placements
  • Talking about disability in applications or interviews and sharing your needs with employers
  • Understanding your rights at work
  • Positive action schemes

You can access appointments, resources and specialist advice through the UWE Career Toolkit.

10. Support at The Students’ Union

UWE Students’ Union clubs and societies aim to be inclusive and accessible. All of our sports clubs and large societies have a Participation and Equality Officer who can help with access arrangements and make sure you can get involved in activities you’re interested in.

Each year, the Students’ Union has a Disabled Students’ Officer who represents disabled students and works to improve access, inclusion, and student experience across UWE.

They can raise issues affecting disabled students, work on campaigns and projects and help make change happen.

Need more information or want to get in touch?

Welcome to UWE! Here’s what we’d wish we’d known as first year students 🫱🏼‍🫲🏽

Author Student Communications | Posted on

The summer before joining university feels like a blur; one minute you’re celebrating the end of an era with your friends, and the next minute you’re anticipating the big “unknown” as you embark on the next chapter of life.

We understand that it’s a lot to get your head around, which is why we’ve spoken to 3 students who have been through it before. Who better to describe the first-year whirlwind than Julian, Xenia and Tareem. See what they had wish they’d known and what advice they have for you…

Meet Julian Scerri, second year Optometry MSCI student 👀

“My first year at UWE Bristol has been a great experience. My course has been both challenging and rewarding, and I’ve really enjoyed developing practical skills alongside the academic side of the course. The course is very hands-on and well-structured to prepare you for the real world. I wish I had known that it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at first.

Everyone is adjusting, and once you settle into a routine and meet people on your course, university quickly starts to feel like home. I was surprised by how much independent learning there is. There aren’t as many lectures as there were back at school, so you’re expected to put in a lot of work in your own time. It’s important to manage your time well, but the lecturers are always there to support you whenever you need help.

Image of Julian Scerri smiling at the camera

“I expected the workload to be a lot more overwhelming, but realistically I still had plenty of time outside the course to relax and do the things I enjoy.”

Image of Julian Scerri playing squash

Alongside my studies, I continued competing internationally for Malta in squash, travelling to tournaments across Europe while representing both my country and UWE. Balancing sport and university wasn’t always easy, but the support from my course staff made sure I never fell behind and helped make everything as manageable as possible.

I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved in my first year, and I’m excited to see what second year brings.”

Meet Tareem Asfour, final year Biomedical Science BSC (Hons) student 🔬

“I wish I had known that one day I’ll have everything figured out and not to stress about it from day one. Everyone starts university feeling the same: lost, confused, and lonely.

But, things do get much easier.”

“Be open to meeting new people, embracing new cultures, and learn to ask for help when you need it-whether it’s with your course or just adjusting to university life.

I was surprised by how friendly everyone is. As an international student, I expected to feel lonely throughout most of my first year. However, everyone is in the same boat as you and is keen to make friends.

Those connections made settling into university much easier than I had expected. I think the key is to keep your priorities in mind and find a routine that works for you. I make sure to attend all my lectures and take notes, which I review when I get back to my accommodation. Outside of exam season, I try to study for at least one to two hours a day while also making time to go to the gym and spend time with my friends. Finding that balance has made university much more manageable.”

Image of Tareem Asfour sitting on a boat

Meet Xenia Giagli, final year Mental Health Nursing BSC (Hons) student 🏥

Image of Xenia Giagli taking a selfie

“Studying a demanding nursing course, which includes placements and a longer duration than other courses, hasn’t been easy but it has taught me how to manage my time effectively and build a healthy routine. I prioritise recharging on the weekends and taking care of myself in order to have a full battery for a busy week ahead.

I take walks in nature, and try to eat and sleep well whenever I can which improves my mental health and resilience.

“Having things planned beforehand has been a major tool in maintaining a healthy study/social balance on the busiest of weeks.”

I was surprised at the relationships I was able to build with lecturers and how approachable and friendly they are. My lecturers have been with me every step of the way. My personal tutor has been very helpful whenever I had an issue, no matter how small or big.

I wish I had known how much support there is to help you settle into student life, meet new people and join events and societies. I was very scared at first, but I have since figured out there is a great deal of help available for students, including the Student Life team, socials for neurodivergent and disabled students and all sorts of interest-based societies so that everyone can feel included and welcomed to the university.”

If you’re feeling nervous, excited, overwhelmed or all the above, we have plenty of support available:

  • Get instant support with the Wisdom app or find support that feels right for you
  • Sign up to MOVE, a free membership to all UWE Bristol students
  • Check out our blog post: The 10 best things to do in Bristol in 2026

And don’t forget to follow us on social too, to stay updated on the latest news and events.

Say hello to your Student Experience Coaches

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Support we offer you here at UWE comes in many different forms – this includes a team of Student Experience Coaches who are here to help you achieve your goals and make the most of university life. 

Student Experience Coaches are professionally trained to use coaching models and techniques that help you to define direction, overcome obstacles and achieve aims.  A coach can help you with your university experience outside of lectures;they can coach you on many areas of your life and studies, including self- development, wellbeing and self-care and engagement with your course, including growing confidence in your exams and assignments.   

Specifically, they can:

  • Encourage you to seek solutions to your issues
  • Empower you to take control 
  • Help you to explore what your aspirations and goals are 
  • Identify strategies and establish day-to-day habits that will have a positive impact on your life and studies. 

Our students who’ve benefitted from working with a coach have said:

“(Coaching) really helped me to understand how to motivate myself and prioritise my work in a way that worked well for me!”

“My coach was incredibly helpful and supportive. So helpful to sit with someone and process my thoughts.”

“Coaching made me feel like a superhero.”

How to get in touch

Book an appointment or email a coach with an outline of your situation and we will get back to you. 

Coaching is available to all students, both undergraduate and postgraduate, across all of our campuses.  

An informal chat with someone who is outside of the situation might just help you untangle your thoughts and gain some clarity on a way forward. They are part of the university package you’ve signed up for, so make the most of your Student Experience Coach.

Essential tips for international students settling into life in the UK 

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Moving to a new country is exciting… but it can also feel overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you settle in and make the most of your experience. 

And if you’re starting with us in September 2026, you can join our International and EU student orientation programme, where you can meet other students and get help with settling into university life in the UK.

Get familiar with your local area 

Take some time to explore your campus and the amazing city you’ve chosen to study in! 

Feeling confident about your surroundings can help you feel at home more quickly. Find out where the nearest supermarkets, pharmacies, banks and transport links are.  

Most large supermarkets in Bristol have an international food aisle plus there are lots of international supermarkets across the city!  

Manage your finances 

Keep track of your spending and remember to plan for essentials such as accommodation, food and travel. Setting up a UK bank account and creating a budget can make daily life much easier. Plus the Blackbullion app is a great way to budget – and enter student competitions! 

Build new connections  

As you settle in, keep connected with friends and family back home – but be sure to make the most of the opportunity to meet new people. 

  • Our Student Life team host a huge range of events both on and off campus.  

Don’t be afraid to start conversations! There will be lots of other students feeling how you feel, so why not make the first move and say hi? 

Look after your wellbeing 

As you settle into new routines, make sure you’re eating well, getting enough sleep and regular exercise. It might sound obvious, but these will help you settle in and feel your best. 

If you’re feeling homesick or stressed, we recommend the Wisdom app. It’s free to download and is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It’s here for when you’re feeling anxious, stressed, or just need some inspiration to manage your wellbeing. You can talk to a counsellor via WhatsApp or a call. 

Embrace your new home 

Trying local food, exploring nearby attractions and learning about UK traditions can make your experience more rewarding.  

At the same time, celebrate and share your own culture with others – diversity is one of the things that makes uni life so special. 

Most importantly, be kind to yourself 

Settling into life in the UK will take some time and that’s ok. Pace yourself and enjoy it!  

Advance HE Community Listening Exercise 

Author Student Communications | Posted on

Share Your Experiences and Perspectives 

UWE Bristol has commissioned Advance HE to lead an independent Community Listening Exercise for staff and students. 

Following recent developments, including the Supreme Court ruling, EHRC guidance, updates to the Trans and Non-Binary Policy, and the Equality Impact Analysis (EIA), we recognise that people have a range of experiences, perspectives and questions. Advance HE will provide a safe and impartial space to share these views. 

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Steve West, and Students’ Union Officers will also explain the purpose of this independent Community Listening Exercise and the importance of providing a respectful and inclusive space where staff and students can share a range of experiences, perspectives and questions. 

Ways to Take Part 

You can participate in whichever way feels most comfortable and accessible to you. 

Online Reflection Form 

An anonymous online reflection form is available for anyone who would prefer to share their views in writing. 

Opens 17 August 2026 
Closes 26 October 2026 
Link Advance HE Community Listening Exercise UWE Online Reflection Form

Student Opportunities 

You can participate in whichever way feels most comfortable and accessible to you.  To help make sure as many people as possible can take part, please only book one session. You may choose either an online group session, an in-person group session, or a 1:1 session.   

Places for 1:1 sessions are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. There are eight places available, intended for those who feel unable to attend an open forum. 

Activity Date & Time 
Online Reflection Form 17 August – 26 October 2026 
Online Listening Session 1 (Space available for up to 25 participants) Monday 28 September 2026, 12:00pm-1:00pm 
Online Listening Session 2 (Space available for up to 25 participants) Monday 12 October 2026, 1pm-2pm 
In-Person Listening Session Frenchay Campus (Space available for up to 20 participants)  Wednesday 21 October 2026, 12-1pm
Confidential 1:1 Conversations
(45-minute slots) 		1 October 2-2.45pm &  3–3.45pm  

5 October 2-2.45pm & 3–3.45pm 

8 October 2-2.45pm & 3–3.45pm & 4–4.45pm  

12 October 2.30-3.15pm & 3.30-4.15pm    

By appointment – email baljit.birring@advance-he.ac.uk your preferred date and time 

Register: Registration – Advance HE Community Listening Student Sessions 

Have Your Say 

Every member of our community experiences university life differently. Whether your experiences have been positive, challenging or somewhere in between, we encourage you to participate and share your perspective. 

FAQs  

Q: Why are we doing this? 

A: This exercise is an opportunity to listen and learn. 

The aim is to better understand: 

  • The lived experiences of staff and students. 
  • What inclusion, dignity, respect and belonging look and feel like across our community. 
  • Experiences of facilities and spaces across UWE Bristol. 
  • How different perspectives and experiences are navigated within our university community. 
  • What UWE Bristol can learn from the experiences shared. 

Q: Who are Advance HE and the facilitators?  

The Community Listening Exercise will be facilitated by David Bass, Advance HE’s Director of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and Baljit Birring, Senior Consultant –  Inclusive Leadership . Together, they bring extensive experience of supporting universities to navigate complex inclusion issues, facilitate sensitive conversations, and create safe, respectful spaces where diverse experiences and perspectives can be shared and heard. 

Q: How is this listening exercise different from the Equality Impact Analysis? 

A: The EIA was a formal engagement process that helped the University understand the impacts of the policy update and informed the subsequent You Said, We Did: Trans and Non-Binary Policy Update | Student blog  response published Wednesday 3rd December 2025.  

This Advance HE exercise is different. 

It is: 

  • An independent listening exercise. 
  • Focused on lived experiences and community perspectives. 
  • Facilitated externally by Advance HE. 
  • Designed to understand experiences, impacts and community dynamics. 

It is not: 

  • A consultation on policy changes. 
  • A review of policy wording. 
  • A legal review. 
  • A decision-making forum 

Q: How will sessions be facilitated? 
A: The group sessions, one-to-one conversations, and online reflection form will be guided by the following five questions: 

  1. What has been your lived experience of working or studying at UWE over the last few months following the Supreme Court ruling, the revision of UWE’s Trans and Non-Binary Policy, and the publication of the final EHRC guidance? 
  1. When you think of an inclusive and respectful environment, what does that look and feel like? 
  1. How effective are UWE’s current facilities, such as gender-neutral toilets, single-sex toilets, changing facilities, and accessible spaces? Where could improvements be made? 
  1. How does the University balance differing rights, needs, and perspectives within its community? Can you share examples of successful collaboration across differing viewpoints? 
  1. Is there anything else about your experience that you would like UWE to understand or consider? 

These questions provide a framework for the discussion. Participants will also have the opportunity to raise any other experiences, views, concerns, or suggestions that they would like to share 

Q: How will confidentiality be protected during the discussion? 

A: Advance HE will independently manage registrations, facilitate the sessions and analyse the information gathered. 

Feedback will be reported thematically, and comments will not be attributed to named individuals. UWE Bristol will not receive participant-by-participant accounts of discussions or one-to-one conversations.  

 If you join a group session, other participants will know who is taking part. Everyone will be asked to engage respectfully and in line with agreed principles of participation, including listening to understand, speaking from personal experience, respecting difference and maintaining confidentiality about what is shared within the group. 

Q: What happens after the engagement period ends? 

A: Following the engagement period, Advance HE will independently analyse the themes emerging from the reflection forms, group listening sessions and 1:1 conversation.  

To ensure transparency, the findings will be shared with all staff and students through an open webinar presentation. The playback will consist of a presentation of the key themes, experiences, and insights identified through the review. Individual comments will remain anonymous and will not be attributed to participants. 

Q: What support is available to me? We recognise that discussions about identity, belonging, inclusion and lived experience can be personal and, at times, emotionally challenging. 

Q: Who should I contact if I have accessibility requirements or questions? 

A:  If you have any accessibility requirements or questions about taking part, please respond to this in the registration form. This will enable the team facilitating the engagement activities to provide any support or adjustments you may need. 

If you have any remaining questions about taking part in this listening exercise, please contact  baljit.birring@advance-he.ac.uk   

Practical tips for saving money as a student

Author Student Communications | Posted on

If you’re feeling nervous about budgeting while you’re at uni – don’t panic! Here are some simple things you can do to save money while still making the most of everything that UWE Bristol has to offer.

1. Start with a budget

A basic budget can help you figure out where your money is going and where you might be able to save. Download the Blackbullion app (free for UWE students) for tools to help you track spending, set goals and build your financial confidence. Or try Savethestudent’s free money cheat sheet if you prefer a quick guide.

2. Use your student discounts

Student discounts can add up to worthwhile savings. Check TOTUM, UNiDAYS and Student Beans before buying. For travel, look at First Bus student tickets, National Express student discounts and a 16-25 or 26-30 Railcard. Always compare the discounted price with other available offers rather than assuming it is automatically the cheapest. 

3. Cook at home

Ordering food or eating out can be fun, but it quickly adds up. Cooking at home even a few times a week can save you money. Try planning your meals, making a shopping list, and sticking to it. Cooking in bulk or sharing food shops with friends can help too. Mob Kitchen’s student recipes are a useful place to find easy, affordable ideas.

4. Travel for less

Public transport is usually cheaper than taxis. UWE Bristol students can get discounted bus fares through the First Bus app. National Express and FlixBus coaches also serve Frenchay Campus. If you travel by train, a 16-25 or 26-30 Railcard gives you a third off eligible fares and may pay for itself after only a few journeys. 

5. Buy second-hand

Before buying something new, check out second-hand options. UWE’s library has textbooks you can borrow, while Biblio, AbeBooks and eBay can be useful for used books. For kitchen equipment, furniture or clothes, try charity shops, reputable resale platforms or the Sustainability Hub at Frenchay.

6. Limit subscription services

Music, streaming, gaming and app subscriptions can quietly add up. Check what you actually use and cancel anything you don’t. Look for a student plan where it offers genuine value, and check the rules before sharing any account. 

7. Check whether you need a TV licence

You need a TV Licence to watch or record live television on any channel or service, or to use BBC iPlayer, on any device. You don’t need one if you only watch other on-demand streaming services and never watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer. The rules can depend on your tenancy and where you watch, so use the official student TV Licence guidance to check your situation before paying. 

8. Avoid first-month money traps

  • Relying on convenience shops for every food shop – compare prices and plan a larger shop where practical. 
  • Ordering frequent takeaways because your kitchen is not set up – keep a few simple, low-cost meals ready for busy days. 
  • Keeping free trials and subscriptions after the introductory period – add the cancellation date to your calendar as soon as you sign up. 
  • Buying everything new before you know what you genuinely need – check what your accommodation provides, borrow where possible and buy gradually. 
  • Spending your student finance as if it were a monthly payment – work out how many weeks it needs to cover and set a weekly limit. 

9. Make the most of free or low cost events

There’s plenty happening at UWE Bristol that costs little or nothing, including workshops, socials, creative activities and wellbeing events. Check the Student Life webpages, Students’ Union website and UWE Bristol events. Many Bristol museums and galleries are also free. 

Get your tech ready for uni

Author Student Communications | Posted on

There’s a lot to sort out before starting uni, and getting your tech ready might not be the most exciting thing on your to-do list. But getting the essentials set up now will make life much easier once you get started on your course.  

Here are the key things to tick off your list to help you feel prepared:  

1. Make sure you have the right equipment ✅

Check what equipment you’ll need, including which laptop and devices are most suitable.  

Our guidance on choosing IT equipment can help you with this, as well as provide info on financial support if the cost of tech is a concern.  

2. Set up and secure your UWE account ✅

Your UWE Microsoft account gives you access to your UWE email account via Outlook and many other Microsoft 365 apps you’ll use throughout your studies.  

Once you’ve registered online and before you change your temporary password, you’ll need to set up your Microsoft security info. This includes setting up multi-factor authentication (MFA) which keeps your account secure.  

3. Know where to go for what ✅

You don’t need to know every UWE system before you get here, but we’ve listed the main ones you’ll need to get familiar with below: 

– myUWE is your starting point for accessing your email, personal details and Blackboard 

– Blackboard is where you’ll find info relating to your course, including modules, assignments and updated from the programme team. 

You’ll also use Microsoft Teams to collaborate and communicate you’re your peers and tutors during your studies. 

4. Download the software you need ✅

You might need specific software for your course. 

Take a look at the UWE software you can download, including Microsoft 365 apps. 

You don’t need to know everything before you start. Taking a little time to explore the systems and tools available to you can make those first few weeks feel much easier.   

The Digital Learning Course  introduces  some of the tech you’ll use at UWE and helps you build the confidence to use the best digital tools for your subject. And once you’re set up, there’s plenty of tools like Microsoft Copilot that can help you study, prepare and get organised.

The 10 best things to do in Bristol for 2026

Author Student Communications | Posted on

If you’ve secured a place at UWE Bristol (congrats!) then you might already know a bit about our amazing city and all it has to offer.

As a Student Comms team, we’ve got over 40 years’ experience living in Bristol, and in this time the city has been through big changes. If you haven’t had a chance to visit yet – and especially if you’ve found your way to us through clearing – we thought we’d introduce Bristol and why we love it so much.

1. Be a tourist and check out the sights 📸

Make your friends from home jealous by sharing selfies with our world-famous landmarks. Marvel at Clifton Suspension Bridge, get a few snaps in Clifton Wood, or have a peaceful moment at Arnos Vale Cemetery. The Clifton Suspension Bridge is not only a mean feat of engineering but provides the perfect backdrop for that “I’ve arrived in Bristol!” selfie – it’s what Brunel would’ve wanted 😉

Bristol is over 650 years old, and with that history comes so much to explore. You could check out Cabot Tower, set in the beautiful parkland of Brandon Hill (climb the tower itself for unrivalled views of the city) and the iconic Bristol harbourside – home to the S.S. Great Britain. 

2. Catch a show

From West End musicals at the Bristol Hippodrome to cutting-edge plays at the Bristol Old Vic; there’s something for everyone. Venues such as the Tobacco Factory Theatre and the Wardrobe Theatre offer everything from contemporary theatre to the classics. 

3. Eat some good food

Known for quirky independents to Michelin-starred gems, Bristol has it all! There’s a strong focus on local, organic and ethical food. Grab some of Bristol’s best street food at St. Nicks Market or head to Cargo at Wapping Wharf – home to a host of independent eateries. 

4. Get out in nature

Bristol is overflowing with green spaces to chill, study and meet friends in. Countryside surrounds the city on all sides and in-between – highlights close to our campuses include the beautiful Ashton Court, Stoke Park and Snuff Mills, and in the city centre, Queen Square, Victoria Park and the Downs are all worth a visit.

5. Connect to local culture

Street art, museums, history – Bristol’s culture is as vibrant and diverse as our city is. Get to know the heart of Bristol by catching an independent film at Watershed, seeing some live jazz at The Old Juke; or booking yourself onto a Banksy walking tour to get those snaps for the grid. 

6. Get to a festival (there’s one for pretty much everything)

Upfest for street art; music at Love Saves The Day; Bristol International Balloon Fiesta for, well, balloons… Then there’s St Paul’s Carnival, Bristol Pride, Bristol Light Festival, Bristol Harbour Festival, Bristol Craft Beer Festival… needless to say, you’ll never be bored here! 

7. Explore the nightlife

From big clubs with top DJs to gigs, underground speakeasies, regular comedy nights and karaoke – and a huge LGBTQ+ scene – Bristol nightlife is lit! Bristol’s also been awarded the Purple Flag status in recognition of our efforts to keep our city a vibrant and safe place to enjoy at night.

8. Take up a new sport

Across the city you’ll find opportunities for climbing, sailing, cycling and so much more. We recommend trying your hand at paddle boarding down the harbour or heading to the outskirts of the city where you’ll find The Wave; a popular year-round inland-surfing destination. Ashton Gate Stadium also houses Bristol City Football club and Bristol Bears if you want to cheer on our local teams! 

9. Shop independent

Gloucester Road, Stokes Croft and Montpelier fall just outside the main city and are a lively hub for student life, lined with vintage shops, quirky cafés and a Banksy or two. Head to North Street in Bedminster for tonnes of urban art, and the Tobacco Factory Market on Sundays for ethical and eco-friendly goods, food and drink, craft and art stalls. 

10. Adopt a bit of the local slang

Well, Bristol is known for being diverse, independent, creative and, most importantly, super friendly. Catchphrases you’ll hear out and about are “Cheers drive” for any form of transport; “Alright my loverrr” as a standard greeting; and “Shipshape and Bristol fashion” for when things are in good order – such as like your study notes, timetable, your (sustainable) out-out wardrobe… 

Wanna explore further?

You can find out more about all the places we’ve mentioned on the Visit Bristol website.

We hope you’ll have fun exploring our – wait – your city. Share your pics with us by using #HelloUWEBristol 📸

Making the most of Starting Block 2026 🥳

Author Student Communications | Posted on

You’re here – you did it! We get how daunting it can feel once you’ve waved your parents off and you’re all moved in, often on your own for the first time. But don’t worry, this next chapter is going to be a good one and we’ve got you! 

Feeling nervous or unsure about things during the first few weeks at university is expected and very common. Everyone’s heard of Freshers as a great way to meet your peers and celebrate the start of your uni adventure. At UWE Bristol, we also have Starting Block, a fortnight of events and activities during September to help you get settled and make sure you have the best start to university life. 

What to expect during Starting Block

Starting Block is tailored to your programme and gives you a chance to get to know your campus, meet the academic team and other students on the programme. It’s a time you’ll become part of the UWE Bristol community. And this year, we’re going BIG with a festival 🥳🙌🏼 

But before you get too excited, below are some things you still need to do before attending Starting Block: 

  • Log in to Blackboard
  • Complete enrolment in MYUWE and view your timetable to see where you need to be and when
  • Check your journey to campus and factor in travel time
  • Enjoy Starting Block!

Your programme team will provide you with an experience that is exciting, meaningful and completely tailored to your course. Throughout Starting Block, they will host activities and events to: 

  • Help you understand the structure of your programme, such as key course dates and assessment methods
  • Show you your programme-specific facilities, such as labs or studios
  • Provide a tour of campus spaces that are relevant to your studies
  • Make sure you understand all the digital tools you’ll be using as part of your programme
  • Take you through our foundation blocks – these are core elements to being a student at UWE Bristol.

Activity may include tours of Bristol, group challenges, taster events, quizzes, plus much more!

Hear from Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Science graduate and UWE Bristol alumni, Laura, about her experience of Starting Block:

So, what’re you waiting for? Start strong and let’s go!

Get a head start using Microsoft Teams

Author Student Communications | Posted on

As part of your learning at UWE Bristol, you’ll be using a mixture of Microsoft Teams and Blackboard, and it will be up to the academic team to decide what works best for your programme.  

You’ll have programme and module pages on Blackboard, but you may be asked to use Teams either in class or in your own time for activities such as group work, discussion boards, presentations or quizzes. Teams will also be the platform for any virtual lectures or teaching sessions.

Don’t panic –there is plenty of support on how to use Teams and teaching staff can point you in the direction of appropriate support. You don’t need to create a new account to use Teams, you just use your UWE username and password. To get a head start, you can check out our Using Microsoft Teams on the Study Skills section of our website. There’s also some great online tutorials that walk you through step-by-step:

You’ll also have access to the LinkedIn Learning library of video courses, and if you have any technical issues, you can contact IT Services. If you have other questions such as how to download the Teams app, then you may find our Study Support pages useful. 

Benefits of using MS Teams

We’ve researched the best ways to help you learn and we believe that Teams has so many advantages over other platforms, including: 

  • It’s universal – Teams is used in so many workplaces across the world, so getting familiar with it now will allow you to gain useful experience for life after graduation.
  • It is designed for collaboration, and will help you work with your peers by sharing files, meeting online and sending chat messages.
  • It comes with a range of tools to help you manage your work, both individually and as a group, such as planners and notebooks.
  • You can use whiteboards, surveys and quizzes, and other apps that integrate with Teams, so you can learn in a way that works for you.
  • It has a number of accessibility features, including Immersive Reader, which is great tool for students with additional needs.

Important note if you go on placement

If you’re going to be heading out on placement, you may need to manage two Teams accounts at the same time – one for UWE and one for your employer. This is pretty straightforward. You just need to log into one site via the desktop app and the other through a browser window. You can read up on this closer to the time, but just something to bear in mind.

Playing by the rules

As always, there are a few ground rules we need you to follow when using Teams, just so we can make sure everyone is safe and happy online.

  • Be respectful to each other.
  • Don’t share other people’s photos or personal data without their consent.
  • Don’t try to pass others’ work off as your own. Even in an informal setting, it is good practice to reference where you have used other people’s work. See UWE guides to referencing and avoiding plagiarism.
  • Always act in accordance with the Student Conduct Policy.

If you find out that Teams is not being used in your programme and you would like it to be, then contact the module’s teaching staff for more information. 

And if, once your modules start, you’re not really sure what you’re supposed to be doing, then get in touch with your tutor or module leader who will be more than happy to support. 

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