The annual STLA’s were once again held in the Social Learning Zone.  Students presented the winners with their stunning glass awards and read out quotes extracted from the nomination forms which told everyone why the winners had initially been nominated and deserved to win.   

The SLTAs exist to reward outstanding teaching, student support and student volunteers across the University of Bolton.  The SLTAs have gone from strength to strength since their inception and are widely respected throughout the University. They are a unique opportunity for students to recognise the exceptional contribution of teaching and non-teaching staff to their education at Bolton.  The evening was a spectacular success and everyone who attended had a great time.  Food was, as always, was provided by Sheila and Sarah from the Vista.

We started each day during Mind Your Mate Week with a TLC (Tea, listen and chat) session in the Loft.  We offered free hot and cold beverages and fruit to students who came to see us before the start of their exams and lectures.  Students who visited the Loft said it was nice to start the day with a drink and a chat.

We had many activities going on during Mind Your Mate Week aimed at helping students to feel less stressed and giving them an opportunity to talk to someone if they needed to.  Activities included making face masks from natural ingredients, fun photo booth, and origami.  We went to Orlando Halls with Zara, the University of Bolton’s very own pet therapy dog, to give students the opportunity of having some down time and play board games. 

We ended the week with the LOL Society hosting a quiz afternoon in the Vista.  There were free mocktails on offer and the winning team took home £100, and the runners up received a Nando’s voucher.

The second ever Future Leaders Residential was held at the Anderton Centre in Chorley and 12 students and 3 staff members attended.  Activities were many and varied and included sailing, orienteering, leap of faith and fire walking.  We had amazing feedback from the students who attended, they told us they felt more confident, they believed more in themselves and one student said “I am no longer afraid to take on a challenge and reach for my goals.”  Every student said they would recommend the residential as a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills and discover skills and abilities they never knew they had.