As Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education, it is my absolute pleasure to welcome you to Newcastle University. I hope that this academic year is fulfilling and memorable. It is my responsibility to ensure that Newcastle University provides you with an education for life that engages, challenges and supports you to discover and fulfil your potential.
Last year we developed and launched our new Education for Life Strategy 2030+; a vision for Education and Skills. This was developed in partnership with our students. I am committed to continuing to put students at the heart of everything we do – and to do this, we need you to tell us how things are going. As the year progresses, there will plenty of opportunities for you to provide feedback through your staff-student committees and the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) that you will receive in Semester Two. Please find the time to do this. Your voice matters, and in order for us to enhance our student experience, we need to hear from you.
In this email, you’ll find important information, handy resources and useful support ahead of your arrival at Newcastle University. We can’t wait to welcome you on campus soon!
Professor Ruth Valentine
Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education
👋 Welcome and induction
Visit ourStudent Welcome webpagesto see the steps you need to take before coming to Newcastle University.
The‘When You Arrive’ sectioncontains arrival information so you are prepared and know what to expect when you join us on campus. This will involve completing your registration and collecting your University smartcard.
Your School will be in touch with further details of your induction programme. Please remember to access Canvas, our online teaching and learning platform, to complete the essential Your Newcastle – Induction, Orientation & Guide in your first few weeks.
If you haven’t completed our pre-arrival course for new students yet, we highly recommend doing so before you arrive.
In the course, we asked ‘What word best describes how you feel about starting University?’. The most common response was ‘excited’ but understandably, ‘nervous’ and ‘anxious’ were also common answers. This is totally normal and you are not alone!
We know that moving to a new country can feel overwhelming! Join our Welcome events and explore our resources to find out how to make the most your time in Newcastle, start to feel settled and meet other students. Come along to our information sessions, formal welcome and social events and look at the useful advice and information available to help you prepare.
Welcome to your Students’ Union! We’re the place where you get access to all our events, clubs and societies plus opportunities to make friends and have the best time at Newcastle. We have loads of opportunities for you all throughout the year so drop in and see us - we’re located right in the centre of campus.
Tickets are available NOW from our website or they can be purchased in person at our SU Apparel Shop where both cash and card payments are accepted! We can’t wait to see you on campus soon!
First time studying at a UK university? We have plenty of advice and learning resources available on our Academic Skills Kit that will help you whilst at Newcastle University. Our Understanding Academic Culture collection of resources provides practical advice to help you understand and integrate into academic culture in the UK. It has been designed especially for international students incorporating advice from past international students.
Navigating the job market can be challenging, whether you're looking in the UK or internationally. More students are also seeking part-time work. To help you succeed, we recommend exploring the Career Navigator platform.
From Monday 9 to Friday 20 September, the Student Health and Wellbeing Services will host their annual Health Fair, open daily from 9:30–16:30.
9-17 September: Join us to register with a local doctor and learn about internal and external support services. Our Wellbeing teamswill be available to answer any queries you may have.
18-20 September: Attend drug and alcohol harm reduction drop-in sessions for advice and guidance.
Starting university is an exciting step and we’re dedicated to making that experience as safe and secure as possible. As a new student on campus, it's important for you to know that the University's Security Team is on hand ensuring your safety. They are always just a call away, ready to assist with any concerns.
Additionally, the SafeZone app is a fantastic resource for students. It's a quick and easy way to connect with the University's Security Team, whether you're in need of immediate help or just want to check in. The app allows you to summon assistance directly to your location on campus, and in certain areas of the city, ensuring that help is never far away.
Remember, your safety is the University's top priority, and these measures are in place to give you peace of mind so you can focus on your studies and enjoy your time at Newcastle University.
It’s important to stay up to date with the latest news and information from the University.
Check your University email inbox regularly for important communications, including our Student Life newsletter. This is sent every fortnight during term time and features the latest University news, opportunities, events and relatable content from our Student Content Creators. Find out more on our Student Communications webpage.
Additionally, more updates, events and opportunities are uploaded to the Student Noticeboard. We recommend bookmarking and checking this page regularly.
Umii connects you with other Newcastle University students based on your shared interests, course and society preferences. Download Umii from Google Play or the App Store today!
Make the most of September with this series of unmissable events.
From cheering on the Dragon Boat Race to singing along at the Silent Disco in Newcastle Cathedral, see what’s going on across our city. We’ve also rounded up events across the campus too!
We’ve partnered with the British Council to create the Managing Your Wellbeing When Studying in the UK course. It covers everything from understanding British culture to finding the support you need. This course will help you thrive during your time in the UK.
Once you arrive at Newcastle University, don’t forget to register with a local doctor (or GP – General Practitioner) so you can access medical advice if you need it.
Newcastle University Symphony Orchestra (NUSO) welcomes students to join for the new academic year. Visit the Student Noticeboard to find out how to audition.
