WATERBEAR
STUDENT SERVICES
SUPPORT SERVICES
At WaterBear, we are committed to supporting your academic journey and personal development through a wide range of student services. Whether you’re seeking advice on your studies, career guidance, financial support, or health and wellbeing, our dedicated teams are here to help you thrive throughout your time at WaterBear.
We also offer a broad range of support materials and advice via our Canvas VLE (virtual learning environment), which is accessible 24/7, and the team of professional support staff at WaterBear are always on hand to help. For more information, or if you have any specific questions about our support services, please contact [email protected]
ADMISSIONS TEAM
Our Admissions Team supports both new applicants and current students across a variety of areas. Offer-holders can attend online advisory Q&A sessions that cover topics such as accommodation and finance. Post-interview applicants can also book a personal one-to-one session to discuss their UCAS application, accommodation options, financial matters, childcare needs, or available support for care leavers. To speak with a member of the team, please contact [email protected].
ACCOMMODATION
Support with finding, securing, and settling into safe and suitable housing.
- Private accommodation options
- Advice on tenancy agreements and renters’ rights
- Help with accommodation issues or disputes
Application Support (UCAS)
Guidance for students navigating the UK university application process via UCAS.
- Support in submitting UCAS applications
- Direct application support if you are a mature learner
- Advice on Clearing, UCAS deadlines, and the UCAS process
FUNDING AND FINANCE
We can support you in your funding application and signpost extra services.
- Advice on student loans and scholarships
- Support in completing your student finance application
- Financial Q&A sessions
- Support in finding part-time work
- Emergency hardship fund
1-1 Mentoring and Careers
Our personalised one-to-one mentoring programme is central to the WaterBear student experience. Every student is allocated dedicated mentoring time with a diverse range of industry professionals. These sessions are tailored to offer targeted support and guidance where it’s needed most. The mentoring programme focuses on three core areas:
Music Industries Support
Helping you navigate and grow within the modern music industry.
- Guidance on artist and band development, A&R, and gig planning
- Support with events, work experience, and career pathways
- Advice from experienced professionals on industry trends and opportunities
Musical Development
Enhancing your technical and creative musical skills.
- Specialist mentoring in vocals, instruments, or production techniques
- Flexible sessions tailored to your primary or additional areas of study
- Access to experienced freelance tutors across a range of disciplines
Academic Achievement
Helping you make the most of your learning and academic potential.
- Help understanding assessment criteria and academic feedback
- Strategies for effective time management and study planning
- One-to-one support to strengthen academic performance
Student SERVICES Team
Our Student Services Team are located in both Sheffield and Brighton as well as working online. They can provide support and guidance in many areas to ensure you have a successful and enjoyable time during your studies. If you would like to speak to member of the team please contact [email protected].
PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH
Promoting physical and mental wellness throughout your student experience.
- Signposting to groups and activities to support with physical health
- Mental health support and counselling
- Wellbeing and mindfulness activities
Pastoral support
Offering a listening ear and advice for personal or emotional challenges.
- Dedicated student support advisors and mentors
- Peer support and student community networks
Learning Support
We can help you gain the support you need for your studies.
- Tailored learning support and adjustments
- Guidance on Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
WaterBear Student Hardship Fund
The WaterBear Student Hardship Fund provides financial help for any student who may find themselves in severe financial difficulty, without the means or support available to help them through it. Applications are considered on an individual basis of need, with awards of up to £500 available.
EMERGENCY SUPPORT
If you or our someone you know is experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, harassment or sexual misconduct, it’s important to know where you can find support. Find all the information following the link below.
Harassment & Sexual Misconduct
If you, or someone you know, has experienced harassment and/or sexual misconduct, we can advise you on how to get help and support – while recognising that everyone copes differently with their own experience.
