The National Union of Students (NUS) Quality Students’ Union accreditation scheme has awarded Leeds University Union ‘Excellent’ status, making it the first union in the country to gain this title.
NUS said that it was “abundantly clear the Leeds University Union is very focused on providing the very best service it can to members” and students felt “‘their’ union was at the heart of their experience as a student”.
Toke Dahler, Union Affairs Officer commented: “Being awarded an excellent status by NUS further strengthens my confidence that we are doing the right thing for students.
“Ensuring students love their time at Leeds is what we pride ourselves on and to hear others assess our work so highly makes me extremely proud.”
Aidan Grills, Chief Executive of Leeds University Union also said: “The staff and volunteers at Leeds University Union are extremely ambitious, and I am so happy that their energy, drive and commitment has been recognised in this way.
“To be the first SU awarded the excellent status is an endorsement of their hard work and the great student leadership which we have year after year at Leeds University Union.”
Sir Alan Langlands, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said: “This award is testament to years of hard work by the Union to ensure students at Leeds are inspired and empowered to make the most of their time at university.
“We have a strong relationship with the Union and are proud of our partnership, where students are involved and engaged in decision-making at all levels, ensuring that opportunity remains at the heart of their education.”
The Quality Students’ Union assessment focuses on three core areas: Governance, leadership and management, Activities and Outcomes.
LUU began the assessment process in March 2014; most unions around the country are still working towards receiving accreditation.
Richard Brooks, NUS vice president said: “We hope that Leeds’ achievement will inspire others to follow suit and gain an award and that Quality Students’ Unions will continue to be an excellent tool to assist students’ unions’ development.”
Jessica Murray