Facebook induced failure

Facebook: the latest tool used by students mastering the fine art of procrastination. Be it essays, coursework or revision, a quick check (or larger dose) of Facebook is generally considered a preferable alternative to continuing with work. But while it may seem simply a frivolous and inconsequential distraction, recent studies suggest that regular use of the famous social networking site is to the detriment of students’ academic performance. Read more

Shell Step Programme sells to students

The Shell Step programme is a work experience scheme which promises mutual benefits to its 600 students and small and medium-sized enterprises that participate in the eight-week placements every summer. Read more

Government minister shows lack of education

David Lammy, Tottenham MP and government Minister for Higher Education, appeared on the BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind on the 28th of December. His performance was severely below par. Lammy elected Muhammad Ali as the topic for his ‘special subject’ round because, as he expressed on his website, ‘…Ali’s outstanding achievements as an athlete inspire other young men to strive for excellence in their own lives.’ Regrettably, Lammy’s score ranked last in this round setting the tone for the rest of his performance. Read more

Leeds Uni bans bottled water

Leeds University Students’ Union has announced that it will ban bottled water on campus in a move towards environmental sustainability. The move, which will cost the University £32,000 a year, is aimed at cutting the University’s waste levels. As part of the initiative the Union will install free drinking fountains across the campus. Tom Salmon of Leeds University Union said “It’s a measure of concern about the environment, putting sustainability before profit,”

Booze prices up

Despite plans to raise alcohol duties by 8 per cent as stated in the pre-Budget report, Alistair Darling was forced into a U-turn on alcohol duty after miscalculations. The treasury subsequently laid an order before parliament which curtailed the rise of spirits to 4 per cent. Read more

Welsh students to cough up

Plans were unveiled last week to scrap grants given to Welsh university students towards their tuition fees.  Welsh education minister Jan Hutt, said that she would like a “significant proportion” of the £61m funding available, to be redirected towards students from lower-income households.  Currently, students studying in Wales automatically receive £1,890 a year towards tuition fees.  Read more

Kingston University to follow Sussex lead

Kingston University’s students’ union has banned the OTC, RAF, Royal Navy, TA and Army from their University campus. Read more

Engine Rooms license fiasco

Last week the Engine Room club was barred from being allowed to play pre-recorded music, as the club did not hold the correct license. Read more

Possible bus strike threatens rush hour

A possible bus drivers’ strike is on the cards after a dispute over Union representation.
The GMB Union, has asked its 140 members within the Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company whether they would like to take strike action over what it sees as an unfair “deal” between the bus company and the Unite Union, which has around 700 members in the company. Read more

Students prepare for bike-a-thon

Sussex students are amongst those limbering up to cycle to Ethiopia this week, a journey they hope to complete in aid of Maternity Worldwide.  Read more

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