Zone Convenor: Jack Clemson, VP Academic Affairs E-Mail: vpacademic@udsu.co.uk Telephone: 01332 591 522 The Vice President Academic Affairs represents you to the university regarding matters of academic quality, learning resources and timetabling. He is also responsible for the Programme Representation Scheme, as well as the 2010/11 campaign Fund Our Future. Jack is a full member of the University's Governing Council and Academic Board, as well as several other committees.

Fund Our Future: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Browne Review?
Why does this affect me?
How can I get involved?
I'm a member of the press. Can I get a comment?

What is the Browne Review?
The Browne Review, or the "Independent Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance," is a panel which will consider the future direction of higher education funding in England. It has been In May 2010 The Guardian reported that the Browne Review had proposed that fees should rise by £1000 annually from 2013 for several years, leading to students being charged £7,000 a year for courses at Oxford and Cambridge and up to £14,000 a year for a science degree, although a spokesperson for the Review stated that no firm conclusions had been arrived at yet. [Read more at Wikipedia]

Why does this affect me?
If you're currently at university, its true that your fee levels will stay roughly the same as they are now. However, there are two things to consider - firstly, in attempt to reduce the country's defecit, the current government are considering imposing cuts to the university sector, which will affect the quality of both your education and your student experience whilst at the University of Derby. Secondly, think about the people you know; maybe you've got a sibling due to come to university in a couple of years, or someone you know from college who took a gap year. You may even have a friend of the family is thinking about returning to education. Current students have an obligation to defend the opportunity to study at university for those who follow us.

How can I get involved?
One of the easiest things you can do is to share this page with your friends on facebook, twitter, MySpace or by e-mail. Simply scroll down to the bottom of this page and hover over the "SHARE" button.
Of course, if you consider yourself a bit of an activist, then you can always join us on the 10th November for the National Union of Students' protest demonstration in London. We've booked ourselves a 52-seater coach, so register your interest by emailing vpacademic@udsu.co.uk - but remember, places are limited, so get in touch soon.
Finally, there will be lots of awareness activity at all university sites and in the city of Derby and town of Buxton. We'll be making sure that the whole of Derbyshire is hearing about our campaign. www.udsu.co.uk/education regularly to see the latest information and dates.

I'm a member of the press. Can I get a comment?
The UDSU is always happy to talk to the press regarding the latest news in Higher Education. The Vice President Academic Affairs is experienced with interviews (over the phone or face to face), debate panels, or guest columns (printed media), but will normally fulfil most requests from the press. Contact the UDSU reception on 01332 591 507 with your enquiry, our else email Jack directly at vpacademic@udsu.co.uk.
If you are interested in registering for the UDSU Reaction to Browne Review Outcomes press conference event, please e-mail our Marketing & Events Manager at holly.lunt@udsu.co.uk.