Back in October, we conducted a ‘Welcome Survey’ to gather feedback from new students about their initial experiences of studying at Newcastle.
The results revealed that many students were either unaware of the support services available at the University or knew about them but were unsure how to access them.
To help you navigate these resources, we've compiled a list of key University support services so you know where to go:
Academic support
The Academic Skills Team can help you find your feet, develop your skills and succeed at Newcastle University. They support you in strengthening vital skills such as reading critically, writing academically and managing your time.
The team provides one-to-one appointments, individual advice, tailored resources and a programme of Your Skills events to help you develop the academic skills you need.
From getting ready to study, to preparing for your exams, to understanding and interpreting your feedback, the Academic Skills Kit offers engaging, interactive resources for you to work through at your own pace.
Visit the Academic Skills Kit
Maths support
Whether you use maths a lot or a little in your degree, the Numeracy, Maths and Statistics learning resources can help with your learning. If you use maths and statistics regularly, you might find worked examples useful for extra practice or revising areas that you have covered in class. If it’s been a long time since you last studied maths and you need a refresher, you might find it useful to explore a particular topic or to look through the core mathematics support.
Maths-Aid, a team of experts from the School of Maths, Statistics and Physics can also provide help and advice on all aspects of maths and statistics. This service is available to all undergraduate and taught postgraduate students who are not in the School of Maths, Statistics and Physics (with the exception of stage 1 UGs from the School of MSP, who can use the service).
Get Maths-Aid
English language support
For students whose first language is not English, the In-Sessional English team are here to help you achieve your potential in your academic subject.
You'll be able to attend up to six hours of classes each week. The lessons range between lecture-style and workshop-format and cover reading, writing, listening and speaking.
Learn more about In-Sessional English
Personal Tutor
Your Personal Tutor is the member of academic staff responsible for looking after your interests throughout your studies. They should be your first port of call for questions about academic matters, such as module choices or discussing your progress. You should let your Personal Tutor know if you’re experiencing any difficulties which may be affecting your studies. They will be able to suggest where you might seek any help you need.
If you have not yet met your Personal Tutor, or you don’t know who they are, you can view this information on the Student Portal in the My Programmes tile.
Go to the Student Portal
Peer mentoring
Peer Mentoring is a 'buddy scheme' for new undergraduate students, aimed at helping you transition smoothly into your programme and university life.
Your Peer Mentor can answer questions only a fellow student would know, share their academic and student experiences, and provide non-academic support and reassurance. They can also offer advice on the best places to go in Newcastle.
Support and Advice Hub
The Support and Advice Hub, located in the Students’ Union, is a physical and digital space for you to seek information, advice and guidance. The team is there to listen and help. The Hub houses two services.
- Student Advice Centre: Free confidential advice on academic, personal, or housing-related issues.
- Welfare and Support Centre: Offers an intersectional and holistic approach to wellbeing, providing resources, friendly faces and guidance for any welfare-related concerns.
Visit the Support and Advice Hub
Student Health and Wellbeing
Your wellbeing needs will change throughout your time at university. The Student Health and Wellbeing Service is here to support you at every stage of your time studying with us.
You can also reach out to your Student Wellbeing Adviser in your School who will have a great understanding of your academic experience and expectations. They provide a comprehensive listening and support service to give you the best opportunity to fulfil your potential and gain the most from your university experience. They can also signpost you to other support services.
Find your wellbeing support
Careers support
Whatever stage you are at, the Careers Service can support you. Access in-person or online appointments, workshops and events to help you make informed decisions about your future. Explore a range of online tools and resources to provide instant information and feedback as well as opportunities to search for part-time work, internships and placements from employers seeking Newcastle students.
Visit the Careers Service
Cost of living support
Visit our Cost of Living Hub to find out about the financial and wellbeing support available that may help you with the cost of living. It also provides useful resources and initiatives on campus, helpful information about accommodation in Newcastle and offers from external transport providers.
Go to the Cost of Living Hub