Supporting students and colleagues during the exam period

Assessments are a vital part of the learning journey, offering opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding, skills, and growth throughout the year.  

We are committed to making assessments inclusive, authentic, and supportive of learning as an ongoing process. This reflects the dedication of our staff in designing and delivering assessments that build trust, encourage resilience, and ensure fairness for all students.  

Supporting students  

  
We know assessments can be stressful for students, but we are here to help them perform at their best. A range of resources are available to provide guidance and support:    

• Exam support webpage: Our exam support webpage is the first stop for timetables, policies, and revision tips.  

• Library support: The Main Library’s opening hours have been extended to 2am every day during the exam period. You can also check locations and opening hours at other Library sites. Visit the Library Exam and Assessment pages for more information  

• Study spaces: Over 100 additional study spaces will be available in Prospect House (Monday – Friday 9am -8pm).  

• Wellbeing support: Running throughout January and February, our You’re Not Alone campaign will provide students with everything from study strategies to self-care advice.  

Staff can play a pivotal role in raising awareness of these resources and encouraging students to engage with them. 

Supporting colleagues  

  
Assessment periods, including the current exam window, often require exceptional effort and dedication from staff. Whether designing inclusive assessments, marking work, or providing logistical support, your contributions ensure that the process runs smoothly and is student-focused. 

To support colleagues during this busy time, we encourage you to access the following resources: 

• Starting well: Take part in our free programme of events for our ‘Starting Well in 2025 Campaign’ this January  

• Wellbeing resources: Explore our Wellbeing StaffNet resources covering free online resources, including how to manage and reduce stress, and relevant events.  

• Employee Assistance programme: Our Employee Assistance Programme, Health Hero provides a specialist, confidential and independent counselling and information service for all colleagues that is both free and confidential.  

• Support services: Our in-house Counselling and Mental Health Service also provide workshops available to colleagues and can arrange for a review meeting if Health Hero are unable to meet your needs.  

Thank you to all staff for your ongoing commitment to fostering an environment where assessments are an intrinsic and meaningful part of the learning experience.