So, what is RGUplus?

RGUplus is a programme that gives students access to a range of opportunities at RGU, which will take them on a journey from citizen to global citizen and make them stand out from the crowd.

Whilst studying at RGU, these opportunities will empower them to think globally, enhancing their employability and equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to excel beyond university.

To achieve this and add value to their course and university experience, we have three fundamental pillars of learning. These are Sustainability, Entrepreneurial Mindset and Beyond the Classroom.

We spoke to Laura Chalmers, the voice behind RGUplus, to find out more about this programme.

"RGUplus is essentially the collective term describing the offering of opportunities, experiences and learning delivered at RGU. The idea behind it is to prepare our students to be excellent global citizens making a positive difference to themselves and the world they will work and live in.

"Guiding our students, RGUplus will provide the environment and learning that is needed for students to develop their understanding of social, economic, environmental, and political views. RGUplus places RGU on the world stage as a unique innovator in higher education, constructively developing curricula to advance sustainability, creating the graduate with an entrepreneurial mindset who through community and industry informed learning will leave us with a well-rounded ‘global mindset."

RGUplus describes the collective package of additionality offered to RGU students. It includes the cross-cutting themes of sustainability and the entrepreneurial mindset, currently being worked on to be delivered throughout our course curricula and the additional community award or credit bearing learning activity named, 'Beyond the Classroom' that our students are offered and will benefit from. These include:

• Volunteering with and outside RGU
• Sports clubs and activities
• Community engagement experiences
• Study Abroad
• Placements and work experience
• Public service opportunities such as charity trustees

We asked Laura, why should students participate? She said:

"Through participation in RGUplus, students will not only develop towards global citizenship- they will be able to personally articulate this effectively to others and demonstrate this through CV enhancing awards.

"RGUplus will illuminate the role of RGU as an agent for transforming lives through community and civic engagement whilst adding value as we lead regionally as the engaged University through fundamental strands of purpose; sustainability, social, economic, and cultural development, and the celebration of culture, nurturing our staff and building a sense of community.

"In addition, the 'Beyond the Classroom' ativities will contribute to an RGUplus Award Programme that recognises the value students will bring to the community by practicing citizenship in volunteering activities and engagement with `Beyond the Classroom pathways. The award programme will be launched during this academic year."

Students can get involved by emailing RGUplus@rgu.ac.uk.