Introducing the New Student Representative Team (SRT) for 2024/25
What’s happening?
As we begin the 2024/25 academic year, we’re excited to introduce the new Student Representative Team (SRT) at Carlow College. This initiative comes in response to the absence of an elected Students’ Union from within the student body for the current academic year and replaces the outgoing Carlow College Students’ Union (CCSU) Executive for 2024/25.
Student voice is important at Carlow College. We have a long history of student representation and involvement in the Union of Students in Ireland (USI) and the National Student Engagement Programme (NStEP). Student representation, engagement and feedback is part of how we do our business. Our students are actively represented on all college Boards, Councils, Committees, and special interest groups. It’s through this partnership that we work to improve our structures, academic programmes, supports and services to ensure the best possible student experience for all.
Not having student representation within our college structures is simply not an option! Without a representative body like CCSU, there would be a lack of student voice on college Boards and Committees or student-led events and activities both on and off-campus. This is why the Student Representative Team is being introduced for the 2024/25 academic year.
How are we supporting student representation?
In the absence of an elected CCSU, Carlow College has committed to ensuring that students remain engaged and informed about governance and representation. We are taking two key steps:
- Student Representative Team (SRT): We have recruited a dedicated team of six part-time, paid student representatives who will focus on student advocacy, wellbeing, and engagement throughout the year.
- Awareness Campaign: We are launching a student governance and representation awareness campaign. This campaign includes talks and workshops aimed at helping students understand the importance of student governance and encouraging future engagement with the Students’ Union.
Our hope is that these efforts will help foster an understanding and inspire renewed interest in student representation within our student body, and support the election of a Students’ Union for the 2025/26 academic year.
The decision to implement the SRT was made after consultations with the outgoing SU President, CCSU Officers, and representatives from USI. This collaborative approach ensures that our students continue to have a voice within the college while providing opportunities to reenergise student involvement in governance and representation.
What is the Student Representative Team?
The Student Representative Team (SRT) consists of six dynamic, part-time, paid positions, which are focused on enhancing student life through active representation, wellbeing initiatives, and organising engaging campus events. The team works closely with both the student body and college staff to ensure that every student’s voice is heard and concerns are addressed. The team plays a vital role in several key areas:
Student Representation
The SRT advocates for student interests by gathering feedback and ensuring students are included in the college’s decision-making processes. The team will work alongside the Learner Information and Retention Officer (LIRO) and the Class Rep Council to maintain open communication between students and the college. Members will also represent students on important college committees, such as the Learning, Teaching and Assessment Committee, the EDI Committee, the Civic Engagement Hub and the Academic Council.
Student Wellbeing
The promotion of the mental, physical, sexual and emotional wellbeing of students is a top priority for the SRT. The team will collaborate with student support services to design and implement special programs and projects, such as orientations and health and wellbeing initiatives. Their goal is to create a supportive and healthy campus environment that enhances the overall wellbeing of all students.
Student Events and Engagement
The SRT will organise events and activities that foster a vibrant and inclusive campus community. By encouraging participation in clubs, societies, and other campus activities, the team will help build a culture that values diversity and makes every student feel welcomed.
Meet your 2024/25 Student Representative Team
Shannon Whittle
Hiya, my name is Shannon Whittle and I'm a third year Social Care student. I've previously been involved as a Class Representative, and I'm looking forward to being part of the new Student Representative Team!
Email me at srt.wellbeing@carlowcollege.ie
Matthew Colgan
I'm Matthew Colgan! Stage 3 Arts and Humanities student and Previous Class Representative Chairperson! I'm committed to representing and encouraging student voices in our college community while of course having a bit of craic along the way!
Email me at srt.rep@carlowcollege.ie
Amy Rusk
Hi! My name is Amy Rusk, I am a 3rd year Arts and Humanities student and I have chosen to major in psychology for my final two years. I look forward to this new experience and to working with my fellow team members and student body.
Email me at srt.rep@carlowcollege.ie
Nadine Goodison
My name is Nadine Goodison and I am a 4th year student in Arts and Humanities majoring in psychology. I have been heavily work closely with the marketing office. Last year, I started the green committee which is to make awareness on sustainability. I have been involved in student ambassadors, class reps, student media team, and much more
Email me at srt.wellbeing@carlowcollege.ie
Skaiste Stanaityte
Hi I'm Skaiste, a third year Arts and Humanities student with a passion for clubs and societies. I'm looking forward to great year ahead working with the team!
Email me at srt.ents@carlowcollege.ie
How can I contact the Team?
The SRT are based in the Student Resource Building which serves as a hub for student engagement and support. Call in anytime for a chat or just to hang out!
All registered Carlow College, St. Patrick’s students are automatically members of the Students’ Union (CCSU). CCSU ensures that the views of students are represented at all levels within the College, and at local and national platforms. We work collaboratively with various College functions to promote student engagement and to ensure you have a positive student experience throughout your studies.
A few of the main events we organise during the year are our Fresher’s Week, RAG Week, Mystery Tours and our College Ball. We also co-ordinate and support a number of clubs and societies.
We are based in the Student Resource Building and our SU Officers can provide information and advice on all student-related issues – call in anytime for a chat or just to relax!
Follow us on CCSU Socials
CCSU Can Be Contacted By:
- Phone: 059 915 3250
- Email: supres@carlowcollege.ie
Continuation of Other Student Activities
In addition to the formation of the Student Representative Team, it’s important to note that class rep elections, college sports teams, and existing clubs and societies will continue as usual this academic year. While CCSU is not disaffiliating from USI, our membership will be paused for the 2024/25 academic year.
Carlow College will continue to be a partner institution with the National Student Engagement Programme (NStEP), ensuring that we remain committed to enhancing student engagement and representation at all levels.
This new structure is designed to maintain a vibrant student life at Carlow College, ensuring that all students have access to the representation, support, and engagement opportunities they need to succeed and thrive.
