Northampton Students' Union

Who we are

Northampton Students’ Union (NSU) is a vibrant, ambitious, and values‑driven organisation at the heart of student life at the University of Northampton. We exist to ensure every student has an exceptional university experience—one where they feel supported, empowered, and part of a thriving community. Our work spans representation, events, advice, community building, commercial services, and partnership working across the University and the wider town.

We are proud to be an independent charity led by students, for students. Everything we do is shaped by student voice, whether through elected officers, student representatives, or the thousands of students who engage with our services, spaces, and activities each year. Our mission is simple: to inspire strong communities, empower students to create positive change, and support them throughout their academic journey.

Our strategic plan focuses on three core goals: building a better Students’ Union, strengthening our partnership with the University, and connecting students with the best Northampton has to offer. These goals guide our work and ensure we remain a credible, collaborative, and forward‑thinking organisation that champions student needs at every level.

The SU is home to a wide range of services and spaces, including The Engine Shed—our flagship Grade II listed venue that hosts student events, weddings, conferences, and community gatherings. Alongside this, we support hundreds of student groups, run campaigns that influence institutional decision‑making, deliver academic representation, and provide welfare support that helps students thrive.

We are also a growing organisation, continually evolving to meet the needs of a diverse and changing student population. Our culture is friendly, inclusive, and people‑centred. Staff at NSU are encouraged to innovate, collaborate, and develop professionally, with opportunities to shape projects, influence strategy, and make a meaningful impact on student life.

Working at Northampton Students’ Union means joining a team that is passionate about community, creativity, and positive change. Whether you’re supporting students directly or helping deliver exceptional experiences through our commercial services, you’ll be part of an organisation that values your ideas, invests in your growth, and celebrates the difference you make.

If you’re driven by purpose, excited by variety, and motivated by making a real impact, Northampton Students’ Union is an inspiring place to build your career.

Our culture and values

We are Northampton Students’ Union, we are:

COURAGEOUS: We boldly and unapologetically champion the rights and interests of students, advocating for positive changes in education, policy, and community engagement at both the institutional and societal levels.  

EMPOWERING: As part of our everyday work, we empower students to take the initiative, lead, and contribute actively to the Union's activities, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.  

AUTHENTIC: We are genuine, transparent, true to our beliefs and dedicated to the community we serve. We maintain honesty and integrity in all interactions and activities, and through this, we foster an environment where individuals can express themselves without fear of judgment and where decisions and actions are aligned with the organisation's true purpose and the needs of its members.

INCLUSIVE: We embrace and celebrate diversity in all its forms, creating an inclusive environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcome, valued, and represented.  

INNOVATIVE: Not afraid to try new approaches, we adapt to changing student needs and the evolving higher education landscape by embracing a culture of continuous learning.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Northampton Students’ Union is committed to creating a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment where every student, staff member and visitor feels valued and able to thrive. Our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy sets out how we actively promote fairness, celebrate diversity, and ensure everyone can participate fully in SU life. As stated in the policy, “we strive to create a culture that actively promotes equity, diversity and inclusion.”

We go beyond legal compliance with the Equality Act 2010 by recognising that true equity sometimes requires different forms of support depending on individual circumstances. Diversity is embraced as a strength, and inclusion is embedded into our everyday practice, decision‑making and strategic planning.

The policy applies to all staff, student members, trustees, volunteers and contractors. We are committed to eliminating discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation, and to ensuring our services, venues and events are accessible and inclusive. Managers and HR play a key role in supporting flexible working, providing reasonable adjustments, and fostering inclusive team cultures. All staff and student leaders receive EDI training, and everyone is expected to uphold inclusive behaviours, including using respectful language and supporting equitable processes.

We encourage open feedback, provide anonymous reporting routes, and ensure concerns are handled fairly. Ultimately, our goal is to create an environment where all individuals can reach their full potential and feel genuinely valued within our community.