Key dates for your diarySpring vacation 31 March - 18 April University closure days 17 April - 21 April 5 May |
Hello, welcome to your spring newsletter!
With the spring vacation coming up, we’ve put together some useful tips and resources to help you prepare. If you're heading away, check out our guide on keeping your accommodation secure and minimising energy use while you're gone. If you're staying on campus, make sure you know the opening times for student services over the vacation.
Below, we included events and resources that can help you with your academics and your wellbeing in the next couple of months—so take a look before you switch off for the break! And scroll to the end for a chance to win £1,000!
Study Smarter, Not Harder
Maximise your study time with the right tools and techniques! You have access to the array of resources that can help you refine your revision strategy and stay on top of your coursework:
Study Advice & Revision Guides
Discover time management strategies, exam techniques, and effective note-taking methods.
Explore Study Advice resourcesMaximise Blackboard & YuJa Usage
Personalise notifications, watch recordings of your lectures, access content on your mobile, and explore different file formats to suit your needs!
Library SupportNeed a space for group work? Book a study room on the 1st floor—perfect for presentations and media projects, with screens to plug into. Need research support? Our Academic Liaison Librarians can help with finding resources — book an appointment online or in person. |
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Academic English Support
Struggling with essay structure, referencing, or presentations? The Academic English Programme is here to help! From workshops and 1:1 consultations to webinars and self-study courses, there’s something for everyone. Read more on how the Academic English Programme can help you.
You can even drop by the 'Ask the Academic English Team' sessions for quick advice—no booking needed!
Mon-Fri, 13.00 - 14.00, Global Study Lounge, 2nd floor, Edith Morely
English Peer Support
Come to the Conversation Cafes to meet other students from across the University, practice your conversational English or just come along for a chat! Free tea, coffee and biscuits provided. You can join us in-person (just turn up, no pre-booking required), or sign up to the online sessions.
Every other Wednesday, 13:00 – 14:00, in the Global Study Lounge, 2nd floor, Edith Morley
Take a Break: Wellbeing & Balance at University
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Studying is important, but so is looking after yourself! Stay energised, focused, and stress-free with these free wellbeing events & resources. Most of them take place after the Spring Vacation, but to tide you over if you’re staying in Reading, our Local Student Guide Daria has put together a blog with her top picks of regular events happening in town. P.S.Have you seen the new Self-Helf Hub on Essentials? It's full of guides and resources for UoR students. |
Today! Coffee & Crafting
Unwind with creative activities like colouring, clay work, and crochet. Free coffee and tea will be available.
26 March, 12:30 - 13:30 @ Edith Morley G44, no booking needed.
Friday Get-Togethers
Take a break from studying, meet new people, and enjoy free tea, coffee, and biscuits! No booking required—just drop in.
Every other Friday during teaching time, 15:00 – 17:00, Global Study Lounge, 2nd floor, Edith Morley
The next one is on 25 April—hope to see you there!
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MA Fine Art Show at the Museum of English Rural Life (MERL)Engaging with art promotes wellbeing by offering a space for reflection and emotional release. Explore the exhibition created by our MA Fine Art students, where they explore the theme of ‘voices’ in response to the MERL's collections. Open to 15 June 2025. Find out more about this free exhibition |
Mindfulness for Exam Prep Talk
Learn simple mindfulness techniques to ease stress and improve concentration.
24 April, 13:00 (Palmer G02 & Online)
Secure your spot for a stress-free exam prep!
Get Moving for Your Wellbeing!
Did you know that staying active can do more than just keep you fit? The results of Sport & Active Wellbeing Survey run by SportsPark in Semester 1, students who achieve at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week report a 17% stronger sense of belonging, 23% higher mental wellbeing scores, and are 16% more likely to expect a first or a distinction in their degree compared to those who are less active.
We’ve been on a bit of a kick with active wellbeing content lately—so if you need inspiration, check out our Instagram for ideas on walks, running, and more!
For more events head to:
Me@Reading events section
Boost Your Skills & Support Others: Get Involved with STaR Mentoring
Looking to develop leadership skills and make a difference? STaR Mentors support fellow students by sharing their experiences, offering guidance, and helping build a sense of community at Reading.
Why Join?
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Gain valuable mentoring experience for your CV.
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Enhance your communication and coaching skills.
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Make a positive impact on a fellow student’s journey.
If being a STaR Mentor isn’t for you, check out our Opportunities Timeline! It highlights volunteering, work experience, and extracurricular activities to boost your skills and employability. Browse by year, see opening dates, and find what fits your schedule. Many activities also count towards the RED Award—start exploring today!
Win £1000 with SantanderThe Brighter Futures Grants programme is back! Together with our long-term partner Santander, we are giving away £1,000 to 10 of University of Reading students. Use the funds for anything that helps you focus on your studies, such as rent, bills, groceries, textbooks, or tech. All students are eligible to enter, including undergraduates, postgraduates, part-time and full-time students. You do not need to bank with Santander to participate. Apply by 23:00 on 15 May 2025 for your chance to win! T&Cs apply. |
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