Club and society spotlight
At York St John, there are over 70 different clubs and societies to join.
Each sports club or society acts as a valuable and indispensable part of student life. They are the place to keep fit and healthy, meet like-minded people or spend a mindful moment relaxing throughout the busy week.
Joining a sports club or society is super easy to feel at home while studying at university, because making friends who have the same interests as you can alleviate those very normal feelings of loneliness we all might experience when we’re away from home.
Society spotlights
- Women’s Rugby Union
Women’s Rugby Union is an all-female Club providing York St John University students with the opportunity to compete and represent YSJ in the Women’s Rugby Union.
They are a developing team going into competitions such as BUCS this year!
Women’s rugby is a wonderful society to join, there is both a competitive league and casual playing depending on what you want to do.
Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience or skill level! Don’t worry if you’ve never tried it before—the girls are super friendly, and the other girls are always eager to teach and have fun together!
Notable awards from Women’s Rugby include:
– Northern 3B BUCS League Winner 2017/18
– Represented in England U20s Squad
– Represented in Yorkshire Senior Women’s Squad
– Represented in Tyrells Women’s Rugby Union Premiership
– Represented in Women’s Super League
– Team of the Year 2017/18
– Sport Personality of the Year 2017/18 (Nat Carr)
– Outstanding Achievement 2017/18 (Rianna Manson)
– Gold Accreditation 2017/18
- Knit ‘n’ Natter Society
Knit n’ Natter is a newer society at YSJ welcoming knitters, crocheters, cross stitchers and all fibre enthusiasts alike, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced crafter.
It’s the perfect opportunity to learn new skills, share tips and create together.
Each week they host a variety of socials; from cosy movie nights and pottery painting to nights out in York, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
- S.W.A.N – Students with Autism and Neurodivergence
Students With Autism + Neurodiversity (S.W.A.N) is a free social support group for anyone who has autism or any other neurodiverse condition. You don’t need a diagnosis to join – everyone is welcome!
There is range of activities from games to crafts to special interest PowerPoint nights!
- Sexpression Society
Sexpression is a national student-led charity that aims to educate and empower young people to make informed decisions on their sexual health, wellbeing, and relationships!
As well as having weekly discussion sessions where Sexprssion YSJ offer a safe space to openly discuss typically stigmatised topics, they annually run training sessions where you can get RSHE (relationship and sexual health education) training, equipping you to go to schools with us and educate young people on sexual health in a more inclusive and comprehensive way.
If you’re looking for a sex-positive space to share thoughts with like-minded people, as well as getting creative with their monthly workshops (e.g. sex quiz, biscuit decorating or making origami vulvas,) you’re in the right place!
How to get involved
Joining a society is easy!
First, it is beneficial to attend a taster session. During fresher’s week, most societies will offer a free session where you can get involved in an activity and meet new people to get a glimpse into what each week is like. They will also have a stall at the fresher’s fair, where you can meet members of the society or club and ask any questions you might have – and score some freebies!
Most societies also have very active social media pages (usually Instagram) where they share times, meeting places and what you can expect the activity to be!
You can join any club or society officially through the YSJSU website, or by speaking to reception in the Student’s Union building on campus!
Being part of a club or society can help make friends, build skills, and enhance your university experience. There is a huge sense of fun and community these groups provide.
You can see all clubs and societies available at YSJ here: https://ysjsu.com/activities
To find out more about what else is being offered here at YSJ, read Maria’s blog on “Facilities and services available for students on campus”.
