January can be a busy time at university. Whether you’re submitting assignments, taking exams, or settling back into classes or placements after the winter break – we want to ensure you have the support you need to thrive at BU. It's important that you know who to talk to if you are having difficulties.
Whatever challenges you may be facing, there are dedicated teams ready to support you every step of the way.
Coursework and exams
If you are worried about assignments or exams, please get in touch now with your Programme Team or Personal Tutor. Even if you do not have timetabled classes at the moment, BU staff are available to provide support - for example if you need help in understanding an assignment brief or unit content.
If you are worried that your circumstances could affect your assessments, you should tell us as soon as possible, rather than waiting for your results.
If you have difficult personal circumstances which are affecting your ability to submit an assignment or sit an exam, you may be able to use our Exceptional Circumstances policy (see the policy guidance for more information). You can contact us to help with this, or you can access the process directly on our website. It is important that you let us know about any issues you may be experiencing as soon as possible so that we can assist you in finding the right support. Waiting can limit the options available to you.
Coming back to class - stay engaged in your studies
As your timetabled sessions re-start after the winter break, it is important to engage with your course as much as possible. We know that students who engage in their course do better. Attending classes, participating in mandatory sessions, and submitting your coursework on time are all vital contributions to your engagement and achievement at BU.
If we identify that you have low engagement, we’ll personally reach out to check in with you. This could be through email or phone call. We get in touch so that we can check that you are okay and support you to re-engage in your studies if you are having difficulties.
If you’ve received a message from us about your engagement earlier in the semester, but haven’t yet responded, it isn’t too late – get in touch so that we can help!
Don’t wait – reach out for support
You can take the first step by reaching out to:
- Your Personal Tutor – For discussions about your learning experience and academic progress
- Your Programme Leader – For information and advice on course requirements and academic questions
- Your Programme Support Officer – For information about assessment processes, absences and managing circumstances which are affecting your studies
- Achieve@BU – For a quick chat about something that’s getting you down, or you’re struggling with a bigger issue
- AskBU – Your go-to team for general help or advice about university.
If you are worried that your circumstances could affect your assessments, you should tell us as soon as possible, rather than waiting for your results. It is important that you let us know about any issues you may be experiencing as soon as possible so that we can assist you in finding the right support. Waiting can limit the options available to you.
It is also important that you let us know about any absence from university as soon as possible, so we can offer appropriate support and guidance.
We’re here for you
Whatever challenges you may be facing, remember that you are not alone. We’re here to support you to make the most of your time at BU and in achieving your goals. You can find out more about all the BU teams here to support you during your time at university on the BU website.