There are many routes into leadership roles within the Union and beyond your University life and depending on your interest or qualification, your choice of route may be individual to you. Each route will have tailored development sessions to help you reach your goal. Development activities will be sympathetic to studies, manageable for students at all levels and a typical programme will include:
We will discuss any career aspirations and goals you may have and propose and agree a personal development plan with clear objectives and deadlines to review your progress throughout the academic year. Regular contact through email and face to face or online meetings will enable us to support you in achieving your goals. We will encourage use of the My BNU Future platform and monitor achievement of the Bucks Graduate Attributes.
Workshops focusing on leadership styles and self-awareness - Through an external agency we would fund and deliver formal leadership training which would provide workplace critical skills on how to demonstrate values, manage conflict, manage change and identify and encourage high performance. You will also have access to a Strengthscope session, where you will have the chance to better understand your significant strengths and how you can use these to maximise your potential in both your work and personal life.
Accredited training courses specific to your chosen route - We can provide licensing qualifications and legislation compliant certificates for those in the hospitality industry; safeguarding or coaching qualifications for those in the sports industry; your development programme will be specific to your route and we will source the training and experience that you need.
Employability sessions - Group sessions in CVs, interviews, applications and networking will be scheduled regularly and in collaboration with the University’s Student Opportunities and Career Success Service. One to one sessions are available to give feedback on your CV and help you find part time jobs, volunteer work and placements to support your goal with both the Students’ Union and the University.
Access to networking opportunities - There may be a national or industry specific conference that we agree will benefit your journey or an employer that you would like us to set up a connection with; you will be invited to be involved with Students’ Union meetings and development days and our student leader socials throughout the year.
Mentors – we will discuss in the initial meeting whether you could benefit from a mentor either in or related to your chosen industry who can give you real-life tips and advice on how to get your foot in the door and progress in your career.
Plus full support of the Students’ Union Development Team through one to one meetings, reflective developmental sessions and assistance with finding your ideal leadership role.
All elements of the programme that you complete will also be included on your Bucks Award– a record of all your SU related achievements in one place showcasing all the transferrable skills you have gained.
If you would like to find out more, please pop down to the Students’ Union office or email sutraining@bucks.ac.uk and we will be in contact with you to arrange a meeting or phone conversation.
To apply:
Standard applications for the Leadership Academy 2023-24 are now CLOSED.
If you are currently in a student leader role for the Union and have yet to confirm your place on the Leadership Academy, please contact sutraining@bnu.ac.uk.