More Than You Might Think

Traditionally the words Students’ Union conjure up thoughts of a dirty bar and loud jeering students – we promise we’re none of these things (in fact the bar in our Building is owned by the University!). The Students’ Union is an independent charity that exists to advance the education of University of Portsmouth students through a range of exciting services and activities. Our mission is to have a positive impact with every Portsmouth student and according to our students we’re doing a pretty good job at it – consistently we’ve been in the Top 20 Unions in the country and for the past 3 years are the best on the South Coast (as ranked through the National Student Survey).

Supporting Our Staff

TOTUM Powered by NUS extra

All University of Portsmouth staff are eligible to purchase TOTUM discount cards (formerly NUS extra) from the Union’s shop and online here.

UoP Staff Voucher Scheme

Some University staff may have received a voucher entitling them to claim a free NUS Extra Card, which remain valid until the date stated and are eligible to be redeemed for a TOTUM card following the transition from NUS extra.

For more information please review original email sent from nusextra@upsu.net for more information.

Support Our Students

Student life isn’t all plain sailing. That’s why we have our independent student Advice Centre located at the heart of campus in the Union Building. Acting as a single go-to resource once a student is registered with the centre we’ll guide them through the right services and support available at the University or deliver independent advice ourselves. Staff are encouraged to refer students if they are concerned about well-being, academic experience or if they need an independent body to deal with any student concerns.

Supporting students with their academic concerns doesn’t need to be about attacking the University with a rallying cry but working in partnership to improve the student experience which is why alongside our Advice Centre we also operate a whole team of staff and elected officers dedicated to hearing and reacting to the opinions of students.

Our Staff

Why Don't You Join Us?

Did you know as a University staff member you’re entitled to be an associate member of the Students’ Union. That means you can join sports clubs and common interest groups, use our facilities and enjoy NUS Extra Card benefits.

150+ Interest Groups

Looking to explore a hobby or passion with like minded individuals? The Union is host to over 150 different student-led groups with over 10,000 active members.

Monthly Events

Not your typical nights out, the Union hosts regular trade shows, debates, sports events and much more.

Celebrate Teaching Excellence

Each year we ask our students to celebrate the best staff across the University who are improving the student learning experience through the Annual Teaching and Learning Awards.

Our Successes

TOP #20 UNION

According to the National Student Survey we are in the top 20 Students’ Union’s in the country

OVER 1,100 COURSE REPS

With at least 50% of the reps having completed our extensive training programme.

OVER 1,000 STUDENTS SUPPORTED

Our independent Advice Centre has supported students with needs from complex course related issues to personal well-being concerns.

11,000 FRIENDS FOUND

We’ve enabled over 11,000 friendships through our 150+ different student groups and most of these friendships will last a lifetime!

£125,000 GIFT AIDED

Our social enterprise trading arm gift aided over £125,000 in profits to support our independent charity to deliver services for students.

21% OF STUDENTS VOTED

5,255 students voted in the annual elections to elect their 5 Sabbatical Officer representatives

In The Union Building

Services For You

In the Union Building you will find a whole world of useful services: from our shop selling University branded merchandise to Amazon lockers where you can order your items to be securely delivered to; if you’re hungry the University has the boutique cafe coco, the spacious starbucks in Third Space and the student favourite Waterhole Bar; our radio station and student opportunities centre are based upstairs with 4 meeting rooms and an activities space; downstairs you’ll find plenty of soft seating, pool tables and host to regular events and markets; and Gun House is home to our Advice Centre and Sabbatical Officers.