Things to know this week

UoY community update

Dark nights on campus

As the nights draw in, please be aware of your safety and security on campus. You can get 24/7 access to the Campus Safety team on campus through the SafeZone app. Download Safezone today.

Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night, is a traditional UK festival that takes place on Thursday (5 November). For safety reasons - and to be mindful of your neighbours and local community - please do not light fires or set off fireworks on University grounds or the playing fields and parks in the surrounding area. Instead, head to various organised bonfire events around York.

Observing Remembrance Day

On Wednesday 11 November, the University invites you all, wherever you are, to pause what you are doing at 11am to observe a two-minute silence in memory of those who have lost their lives or had their lives affected by war. If you decide not to accept this invitation, we ask you to respect those who do wish to take part.

If you find yourself affected by conflicts currently occurring anywhere in the world, please visit our website to find out how we can support you.

Celebrate Diwali on campus 

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, will be taking place from Sunday 8 November to Thursday 12 November 2026. Celebrated by millions of people around the world, Diwali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil, and is a time for hope, new beginnings and community. Celebrate on campus with a range of events across 8-9 November featuring music, light painting and traditional sweets and panu puri. 

1. Make the most of Consolidation Week

Consolidation Week is here! Whether you’re catching up on your studies, taking some time to plan ahead or having a well-earned break, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the week. Don’t forget to check out our guide to making the most of Consolidation Week, featuring helpful tips, academic workshops and fun on-campus events.

2. Talk Money Week: it all counts 

We know talking about finances can feel awkward - whether it’s looking for money saving tips or facing bigger worries about debt - but every small action makes a difference. This Talk Money Week, check out Talk Money’s five quick wins you can kickstart today, as well as their top tips to talk money. Whatever your situation, our teams at the Student Hub can help.

3. Become a Giving Day ambassador

On 4 and 5 November, York’s annual Giving Day is back to raise funds for less advantaged students, inclusive opportunities in STEM fields, mental health causes and students and academics displaced by conflict. Help us to spread the message far and wide by becoming a Giving Day Ambassador, and track your impact in real time.

4. Have your say: better buses for York

Join York SU for their inaugural student assembly on improving transport for York (11 November). With members of the Mayoral Combined Authority in attendance, this is your chance to express what you need and want from public transport in York and North Yorkshire. Free Courtyard pizza and light refreshments will be provided - register for your free ticket to be added to catering numbers. 

5. York’s Aesthetica Film Festival returns

York’s Aesthetica Film Festival returns 4-8 November, bringing 300 films, games, VR, music, podcasts, comedy, workshops, live events and more to venues across the city. In addition to resident discounts for paid passes, the festival offers a number of free events, workshops and talks. Come along to hear from creative industry leaders, peek behind the industry curtain and discover opportunities across film, games, XR and more.

Your voice

Looking to get out in the crisp Autumn air this consolidation week? Iza and Morgan share their 5 favourite budget-friendly day trips from York.

Play  

Have your say: Nominations open for the Inclusive Impact Awards 2026

We are committed to ensuring that every member of our community can thrive, whatever their background, identity or circumstances. We're looking for nominations for students who are turning that ambition into action.

Offers, competitions and opportunities

  • Feeling creative? Win an iPad in our annual Christmas card competition
  • Apply for the Santander Brighter Futures Grant for the chance to win £1,000
  • Share your thoughts on our MyUoY app for the chance to win a £25 voucher
  • Win prizes for both you and your college in the College Sustainability Challenge quiz

Jobs and opportunities

Log on to Handshake, our careers platform, for jobs and opportunities:

Handshake
A promotional graphic for a marketing survey, asking postgraduates to share why they chose York, and what we can do to improve. Participants are able to enter to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

Find out more student news

See all updates for students on our website:

Student news

Things to know this week is produced and distributed by the University's Student Communications Team. Please email any feedback to 
student-communications@york.ac.uk.

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