Every year Students Unions across the country welcome new members of staff to key coordinator/project lead positions. These normally consist of recent graduates, people new to Students Unions and staff wanting to change their career direction.

 

The first few months can be key to that staff member's success with a lot to take on. How do SU’s work? How do I work with Officers? What techniques empower volunteers? How can I grow in my organisation?

 

The Essentially SU Course is an online course developed by Stephen (Dows) Dowson at Stand & Be Counted designed for staff at Student Unions, particularly those at a Coordinator or Project-lead level. The course, run over 5 half days from July to September has been created to give staff an opportunity to learn, network with other similar staff from across the movement and set them up for success in the coming year. 

 

This course is adapted from ‘ Leadership in Practice’ which was run by Stand & Be Counted on behalf of Community Action Bradford and District aimed at charities throughout the Bradford and District Area.

 

‘ This course is easily one of the best things I have ever done. It made me realise my value as a member of staff and how I could be more effective. Honestly, every week I end up going away and putting into practice the things you teach. ‘

 

Participant in ‘Leadership in Practice’

 

‘He [Dows] is extremely engaging, knowledgeable and challenging. He doesn't allow you to give an easy answer and questions your answers, but in a non-threatening way which helps you to understand the topic. Excellent!’

 

Participant in ‘Leadership in Practice’

 

Course Breakdown:

 

Understanding Leadership - 11th July 10 am - 1 pm 

 

Our first day covers an exploration of leadership. How they can understand their skills as a leader to manage their projects and empower students. We will also look at how we use these skills to manage the people above us to be effective.

 

Understanding SU’s - 25th July 10 am - 1 pm 

 

The second session covers a brief history of the student movement, including how Officers have developed and grown in their roles. We will discuss how best to work with elected students and manage their priorities with our own. 

 

Understanding Motivation - 8th August 10 am  - 1 pm 

 

Our third morning will be a breakdown of what motivates people to do the things they do. Why do students get involved in some projects and not others? How can we motivate the staff around us? This day will help create practical answers to these questions.

 

How to communicate effectively - 22nd August 10 am - 1 pm

 

The fourth session will analyse what makes effective communication both face to face and digitally. How can we be confident public speakers in a hybrid working environment? Using practical techniques and tips, participants will grow as effective communicators.

 

Creating Consensus using Emotional Intelligence - 5th September 10 am - 1 pm

 

Finally, we look at how to be effective in our work and outcomes using Emotional Intelligence. We will look at the four pillars of Emotional Intelligence and how, by managing ourselves, we can create projects and ideas that bring everyone on board. We will also use this last session to look at their next development steps.

 

Cost

 

The cost of the course is £300 with the option of discounts being offered if numerous staff from the same organisation sign up.

 

The deadline for expression of interest in the course is June 10th for the course to start on the 11th July via Zoom.