Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students),Professor Kate O'Riordan wrote to all taught students earlier today. Read her full message below:
Hello,
This week, I’m taking a moment to spotlight Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from Monday 12 May to Saturday 18 May. The theme this year is movement for our mental health, and I’m reflecting on how community, connection, and taking breaks can really support our wellbeing—especially during a busy assessment period. Whether it’s sharing a meal, walking in nature, or simply having a chat, small actions really can make a difference.
You may have seen that Sussex was recently shortlisted for a national Mental Health and Wellbeing Support Award, in recognition of the wide-ranging support and mental health services offered to students by our brilliant Wellbeing team. Over the next few weeks there are a fantastic mix of events and activities on offer to support your mental health—from free breakfasts and wellbeing walks, to cooking classes and even canine cuddles. I encourage you to take advantage of these brilliant initiatives to support your wellbeing, especially those of you currently completing assessments, and I hope you find a moment this week to pause, reflect and take part in something that brings you joy.
This week also includes IDAHOBIT – the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia and Transphobia – on 17 May. It’s a vital reminder of the need for visibility, solidarity and safety for LGBTQ+ communities everywhere.
With students from over 170 countries, Sussex values the vital role international mobility plays in driving research, innovation and economic growth. We have joined Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE) and 36 other organisations in signing a joint letter to Parliament, calling for a more internationally competitive and flexible immigration policy for researchers and international students in advance of the forthcoming Immigration White Paper. You can read the letter here.
Please read on for your regular update, including:
Exceptional circumstances
If you have recently experienced a circumstance that is short-term and unexpected that has negatively affected your ability to study, prepare for or complete an assessment or exam this semester, you might need to submit an Exceptional Circumstances claim. This will enable the University to take account of the impact or effect that these circumstances may have had on your academic performance and if your claim is accepted to put in place forms of remedy.
Further information on the Exceptional Circumstances process.
If you plan to submit an Exceptional Circumstances you must ensure that you submit your claim (including any requested evidence or further information) by the published deadlines that are set for your level of study. The deadlines for the current Semester 2/A2 assessment period are:
Final Year undergraduates
Wednesday 28 May 2025
Undergraduate (non-finalists including Foundation Year)
Monday 2 June 2025
Taught postgraduates
Monday 2 June 2025
Information for online distance learning students.
If you need more help and advice about making an exceptional circumstances claim you can contact:
The Students’ Union support and advocacy service
Win a week's worth of free lunches with our new reverse vending machines
Have you seen the new reverse vending machines dotted around campus?
Well, you can win a week’s free lunches for recycling. Just feed them your empty plastic bottles and drinks cans to receive a ticket in return. To enter our fortnightly prize draw, just take your tickets to the Students’ Union reception in Falmer House and put them in the prize box.
Moving out? Donate the items you no longer need
If you're packing up and realise you’ve got clothes, kitchenware, or other items you no longer want or need - don’t throw them away! Drop them off at one of our on-campus donation points. Find out more on the Student Hub.
Expert advice can help you find a career with purpose
Want a job in the green sector? People with green skills are over 50% more likely to get hired — here’s how we can help you get there.
Women in Art Prize 2025 - an opportunity for emerging artists
The Women in Art Prize 2025 is open for submissions, offering emerging artists the chance to gain recognition and showcase their work on a global platform. Now in its eighth year, this prestigious award aims to celebrate and promote the creative contributions of women in the arts, helping to provide visibility and a platform in a competitive industry. Find out more.
New University website given the go ahead
From early 2026 Sussex will be getting a brand-new website – a great piece of news that means that the whole world will be able to see the best of our University, shining a spotlight on academic and research excellence alongside everything else that Sussex has to offer. Find out more about the project.
New campus public art work - who will you choose?
We are commissioning a new artwork on our West Slope development and would love to hear your thoughts on our shortlisted design proposals. Pop along to the Library from Monday 19 May to Sunday 1 June to see what is proposed for Sussex Lawns, a new green area at the heart of our new development.
You’ll find the display in the Café area where you can see how each Artist has approached our request for an outdoor installation that reflects our community, heritage, and natural surrounds. Why not take a break, browse the designs, and let us know your thoughts!
Socially Responsible Investment Policy review update
Community engagement continues on the University's review of its Socially Responsible Investment Policy which informs how it invests its funds. Students are invited to attend a briefing event on 18 June to talk through the draft of the updated policy. More information available on the Student Hub.
ActiveUS is back for the summer term
Weekly sessions are back for sports including badminton, basketball, table tennis, football and volleyball. Still only £2 a session, all abilities welcome, all equipment provided!
Book online or at reception. Running until 24 May.
With best wishes,
Kate
Professor Kate O’Riordan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Students)