Most students will have a Personal Development Week at some point in their academic year.

This is your chance to take time to reflect on your learning so far, try something new, build your confidence, set future goals, and connect with the wider Christ Church community.

Here's your guide on how to make the most of this special week:

Get involved in student life

It is never too late to make the most of what University offers beyond your studies! Check out our Student Life Hub and be inspired by all the opportunities available to you.

If you are looking to try something new or make new friends, the Students' Union is the best place to start. Joining a sports club or society is a great way to get involved no matter what year or stage of university you’re at.

There are lots of free weekly events where you can meet others and connect with the wider community including Tea at Three, Board Games Group and Potter and Prune. There are always plenty of events and activities to broaden your horizons, discover something different and make new friends whatever your interests.

 

Studnet Life

Give back and make a difference

You're part of a compassionate community at CCCU, and this week is your chance give back.

So why not share your knowledge and experience to help guide other students through university life by becoming a peer mentor.

Or consider other volunteering opportunities in the University and local community, as this is a great way to build your skills, enhance your CV and make a difference.

If you share our passion for sustainability, there’s lots of ways for you to help make the University and the Students’ Union a better, more energy-efficient, environmentally conscious and sustainable place to study. 

Come along to our pop-ups

  • Peer Mentors - 31 January and 13 February, Touchdown Cafe
  • Volunteering - 14 and 16 February, Touchdown Cafe

Library pop-ups

  • Volunteering with the Library: Thursday 25 January, 1 - 4pm, Augustine House.
Student Life

Take the Expect Respect Online Module 

Show your commitment to inclusion by taking the Expect Respect Online Module - learn about building your supportive network, our Expect Respect campaign, staying safe, and cultivating healthy relationships.

When you complete this module, you will be entered into a prize draw, with a chance to win some amazing CCCU goodies and experiences!

Come along to our pop-ups

  • Expect Respect, 7 February, Touchdown Cafe, to hear why you should take part in the Expect Respect Module, learn about what prizes are available, and share what respect means to you. 

Prioritise your wellbeing

Whether you’re looking to develop a healthier body or healthier mind, we have something to support your wellbeing during Personal Development Week and beyond.

Discover new opportunities and enjoy uni life through Christ Church Sport and Active Health. Whether you simply want to give something a go, become a member of the gym, try out a fitness class or take part in a social league.

In partnership with Spectrum.Life, CCCU students have access to a digital gym, workout and nutrition plans as well as an online wellbeing studio with meditation podcasts, stress-busting videos and mindfulness tips. Register now to the Spectrum.Life platform and mobile app using your Canterbury Christ Church email address.

And why not think about taking time out and coming along to one of our regular free wellbeing events such as Chooseday Chill or Wellbeing Cafe. This is a chance to relax,and chat to our Student Wellbeing and Chaplaincy Teams.

Develop your skills

There are a range on online resources, training opportunities and individual tutorials available to develop your academic and digital skills.

The Learning Skills Hub has over 40 engaging and interactive online modules to support you in your studies, career and wellbeing.

You can also access the Microsoft Imagine Academy training for free. Our IT trainers can help create a dedicated personal training plan using the Imagine Academy resources. Once you have completed your course you have the option to undertake an exam to gain globally recognised certification.

Earn while you learn

Looking to boost your income? Explore part-time job opportunities through Unitemps. Our recruitment service has a variety of roles within the University and the local area. And don't forget you can get support with job applications from the Careers and Enterprise Team.

If you're looking for a way to give back to the community, inspire other students, develop your employability skills, and have a job which earns you money whilst fitting around your studies - then becoming a Student Ambassador could be for you!

 

Come along to our pop-ups

  • Become a Student Ambassador - 2, 9, and 21 February, Touchdown Café
Student Life

Plan for your future

Use this week to kick-start your career with the help of the Careers and Enterprise Team. They can help you achieve your future goals with lots of free online resources and support, plus advice on CV writing and job applications, interviews and assessments, skills building and personal development.

Get the support that you need

Also, remember that teams such as Careers, Student Support, Disability, Mental Wellbeing and International provide regular drop-in sessions – so you can take some time to get any support that you may need in place for the year ahead.

Plus, as an extension to your Personal Development, you can meet some of the teams in a series of pop-ups happening in Touchdown Café starting at the end of January and throughout the month of February. So why not come along, say hello, and find out how they can support you during your time here!

Week, make the most of the opportunities, and let this week be a stepping stone to your best university experience yet!

Come along to our pop-ups

  • Careers - 29 January, 5, and 19 February, Touchdown Café

Library pop-ups

  • Public Library: Wednesday 24 January, 1 - 4pm, Augustine House

University Survival Guide Workshop

Tuesday 30 January, 4.30 - 6.30pm, The Lounge. Join 'Commando Chef' and Robbie White in this interactive workshop as they share key survival tips for uni:

  • How to enjoy cooking on a budget
  • Building positive relationships
  • Partying safely