Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

I’m Tom, a final year BA Geography student at Cuth’s. I’ve been the course rep for my year group for all three years; this year I’m also a faculty rep for Social Science & Health, and Co-Head Facilitator of EcoDU, Durham’s climate campaigning society. Via these roles, I’ve worked with students, the SU and the University on a variety of projects, initiatives and campaigns, giving me valuable experience for the role of Education Officer.

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

I really care about representing student needs and interests to the university and have worked hard to do so throughout my time in Durham. I was recognised as Durham SU’s most engaged academic rep in 23/24 and I would strive to bring this level of commitment to the role of Education Officer. I have additional experience relevant to the role, including being on a student feedback committee for the Careers Service, attending the National Union of Students conference with the SU last year, and chairing an SU panel discussion on student voice with staff.

Why is this role important to you?

In this climate of budget cuts, I would fight to get the best for students and limit the impacts of institutional austerity on education and wellbeing. We all know Durham University management has little regard for student needs, exemplified by the sudden closure of the library at night and pitiful NSS scores.

Durham needs to be reminded that without students and staff, the university would cease to function.

If elected, I would:

• Campaign for a transparent review of the Billy B’s opening hours specifically referring to student feedback, and defend 24/7 opening hours over the Summer exam period
• Fight for upgrades to the student support system to ensure meets all students’ needs
• Lobby for changes to the deadline extension system to allow for one self-certified extension per term
• Work closely with course and faculty reps to deal with student issues across the university

What is your pitch to students?

I’m passionate about improving education for all Durham students and I have already worked for the past three years to bring about change. I would use my prior experience to advocate for students at all levels of the University. If elected, I would listen to and fight for student needs.