Welcome to King’s College London! As you embark on your academic journey, there’s one organisation you’ll hear a lot about: KCLSU. Whether you’re a new student or a current student in need of a refresher, you might be wondering, what exactly is KCLSU? Let’s dive in and explore the vital role the King’s College London Students’ Union plays in your university experience.
History
Established in 1873, King’s College London Students’ Union, or KCLSU as it’s commonly known, stands proud as the oldest students’ union in the UK! Every student at King’s automatically becomes a member of KCLSU, making it a pivotal part of your university experience from day one. We have nearly 400 Student Activity Groups and 70+ Sports Clubs on offer, ensuring there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re passionate about Formula 1 or you’re an aspiring Hedge Fund manager with an interest in Muay Thai on the weekends, we have something that’ll pique your interest. If by chance you don’t find a society that aligns with your passion, we’ll support you in setting one up. Discover more information on student groups here.
Representation and Advocacy
KCLSU is the powerful voice of our student community. Elected officers, including our President and five Vice-Presidents, represent your individual voices to ensure robust representation. We are an independent organisation separate from the university, which means that student welfare and belonging are our greatest priorities. Every year, students elect representatives to advocate on issues such as tuition fees, mental health, and academic support. We also have Academic Associations, the recognised student-led group of their respective student community within KCLSU, their department/faculty and KCL. Our democratic structure ensures that students lead us at every level to achieve our priorities.
Support Services
University life can be challenging, and KCLSU is here to support you. We offer free, confidential, and impartial advice on a myriad of issues, be they academic or personal. Our Advice Service can help with Mitigating Circumstances, Academic Appeals, Housing, Finance, and general wellbeing. We prioritise your queries to provide the quickest possible response and can advise you via email, telephone, or in person. Our Wellbeing Team supports you to take care of yourself through a series of workshops and events run by staff and peer support services.
Social Spaces
If you’re ever in need of a break, why not unwind with friends? Experience the atmosphere at Guy’s Bar and The Vault with a pint, or pop into The Shack or The Shed for a caffeine boost before your lectures. Our venues are perfect spots to relax, socialise, and make new friends. We also have a number of informal study and relaxation areas, as well as activity rooms for our student groups to book for their events and meetings.
Events
Mark your calendars for the Welcome Fair on 19 September. It’s the perfect platform to discover our societies and connect with peers who share your interests. KCLSU organizes a variety of events throughout the year to help you unwind, have fun, and connect with others. From Welcome Week activities to regular social events like quiz nights and themed parties, there’s always something happening.
Activity Groups and Sports Clubs
Joining a student group is a fantastic way to meet new people, develop new skills, and pursue your interests. KCLSU boasts over 400 clubs and societies, including sports teams, cultural groups, academic societies, and hobby clubs. All student groups are run by students, giving you the chance to take on leadership roles and make an impact.
Are you interested in journalism, photography, radio, music, TV broadcasting, or filmmaking? KCLSU’s Media Suite at Bush House is the perfect place for you. Get involved with newspaper, cultural and research journalism, and unleash your creativity in a space that is right in the centre of SU life. The sky is the limit to your creativity here at KCLSU Student Media.
Volunteering
Giving back to the community and gaining valuable experience is easy with KCLSU. Our volunteering opportunities range from micro-volunteering activities to launching large-scale projects of your own. Getting involved in local projects, charity work, and community service is a great way to meet new people and make a real difference.
Employment and Development
KCLSU offers various opportunities to enhance your skills and employability. We provide part-time jobs within KCLSU, including roles like bar staff, event assistants, and administrative support. Additionally, we offer training and workshops on leadership, project management, and other professional skills.
Networks and Campaigns
KCLSU Networks combat oppression, discrimination, and inequality faced by students from liberation communities on a local and national level. These networks are representative communities that act as platforms for connection, collaboration, and collective campaigning. As a democratic, membership-led organisation, KCLSU supports and funds our members to develop campaigns that will make a positive change for students at King’s.
Elections and Leadership Opportunities
Each year, KCLSU runs elections for student officer, student trustee, and student group committee positions. These elections give you the opportunity to lead KCLSU and be a voice for the student community. Being a part of the Funding and Ratification (FAR) committee, for example, involves making important decisions about how KCLSU funding streams get allocated and deciding on the ratification of new group applications.
Final Thoughts
KCLSU is here to make your time at King’s College London as enriching and enjoyable as possible. We are your union, your support, and your community. Whether you need help, want to meet new people, or are looking to make a difference, KCLSU is the place to start. Welcome to King’s, and we look forward to seeing you get involved and thrive!
