Autumn Student Conference
- Posted 24 Oct 2024
Autumn Student Conference News Story
Recently, we held our Autumn Student Conference at XTEND Digital Campus, where members of
our Student Union from all campuses came together. The students introduced themselves to
their cross-campus counterparts, and they discussed all things USP College. Beginning at 10:00am,
a motivational introductory talk from Loudspeaker kicked off the day, speaking about personal
growth and the journey of self-acceptance as a young person. There was an air of enthusiasm around
the Emerging Technologies Studio as Student Union members and staff listened to the animated, lively speaker.
Student Governors and Senior Management made themselves friendly faces to the SU members with introductions
all around before students took part in some societal debates and discussed their thoughts
on the general curriculum. The respectful manner with which they communicated conflicting
opinions highlighted their professional skills, which they will continue to use in future employment.
Another visitor to the Student Conference was Karl Lansley, founder of the Carli Lansley
Foundation, who spoke about the charity's aims and successes. Campaigning for free ECG scan
funding for those aged 14-35, Karl mentioned his walk all the way from Southend-on-Sea to the north of Norfolk,
down to Southampton and through Canterbury. The Foundation has already successfully funded free
scans in the Southend area, and we were proud to listen to A-Level student Jess Lansley, who is Karl's
daughter, bravely explain what the charity means to her.
After a refreshment break, the Student Union members were back and split into groups. They listened to
each-other's diverse perspectives on the curriculum and courses. For instance, a statement was given
for groups to discuss - 'I feel that my course is preparing me well for my chosen career'. One student
stated that career pathways are explained 'very well' and staff 'help you to understand', while another
claimed that 'despite not knowing exactly what I want to do', they were given a wide range of
opportunities to work it out.
It can be confidently stated that the Student Conference was an incredibly valuable day, with
everyone involved walking away with new insights on the USP College student experience.