The school and staff have been here for us throughout these special times of a pandemic. They have done everything in their power to support and help us students to learn, stay motivated and produce quality work. Even though my class (first-year students) have had a completely different experience of uni than earlier students, the teachers have managed to create a feeling of a safe space.

Huge studios with good and robust equipment as well as good space for each student. The exterior and interior of the school is modern and up to date which gives me more energy that makes the school day more productive. The school and staff care about cleanliness so everyone can have a good experience while working and it also is a key factor to prevent dangerous situations with equipment in our studios.

They promote and publish up to date information about all the different support groups. Hold lectures for us and engage with the students through films, mails, photos and arrangements (digitally of course)

Variable zoom meetings with engaging and creative tutors. The teachers are available to us whenever we need to speak to someone about uni work or our feelings. Online teaching has worked well due to good preparation from the staff - tutorial videos, 1-1 meetings, small group discussions etc.

10

Have had lectures about how to prepare for the future. What, how, when? Talked about everything from CV writing, summer jobs, internships to what goals we need to set for ourselves to reach our dream and our idea of success in life.

Arts University Bournemouth hosts an amazingly collaborative environment where courses cross over and incredible outcomes are born. The campus itself is super friendly as well as the tutors. From a Performance Design course perspective, there is so much to get involved in, whether it be helping with costumes for the latest play in collaboration with the BA Acting course, or getting stuck in with set and prop building in the purpose built workshops. As with most universities, AUB is out on a limb and away from the hubbub of town. However there are regular buses back and forth, and you will most likely be living out of town for your second and third years anyway (i.e closer to the university)

Our course has a lot of contact time and studio time with only one online additional lecture per week. This additional online lecture is with outside lecturers and practitioners, and due to its digital nature we are able to access a wider range of people who wouldn’t be able to travel down to Bournemouth.

Madeira Road halls is very close to the high streets and the very centre of Bournemouth, with only a 15 minute walk to the seaside. The bus stop is right outside to take you to uni. Like any halls, you do not get to choose who you are put in a flat with, so it’s pot luck! Other than this it’s a very good way to make new friends in a new place for first years.