USWSU Launches Ambitious New Strategy to Transform the Student Experience 

The University of South Wales Students’ Union (USWSU) has unveiled a bold new strategy setting out its vision to transform student life for more than 21,000 students across South Wales and beyond.   

Positioning the Students’ Union as “a movement, not just an organisation,” the strategy commits to making every student’s life better “wherever, whenever, whatever and however” they study at USW.   

A Clear Vision for Change 

At its core, the strategy reaffirms the Students’ Union’s mission to put students first - delivering outstanding services, creating opportunities, and fostering a vibrant and inclusive community across all campuses and modes of study.   

Recognising the changing needs of a diverse and evolving student body, the Students’ Union aims not only to adapt but to “transform to thrive” in a fast-changing higher education environment.   

Four Strategic Pillars 

The strategy is built on four defining pillars that will guide all activity and investment through to 2029: 

• Inclusive – Ensuring every student feels seen, heard, supported and valued, with governance and services reflecting diverse needs.  

• Fun – Creating engaging, memorable student experiences through events, sport and student-led initiatives that build community and wellbeing.   

• Connected – Strengthening partnerships with the University and external organisations to amplify the student voice and co-create solutions.   

• Excellent – Delivering high-quality, future-focused services through innovation, strong operations and financial sustainability.   

Together, these pillars will shape a Students’ Union that is responsive, student-centred and collaborative, with a strong focus on continuous improvement and impact.   

Driving Measurable Impact 

The strategy introduces a robust framework for delivery, including clear priorities, measurable outcomes and a strategic dashboard to track progress and ensure accountability through to 2029.   

Key commitments include: 

• Expanding inclusive representation and democratic participation 

• Increasing student engagement in activities, campaigns and sport 

• Strengthening partnerships that enhance the student experience and wellbeing 

• Investing in workforce capability, digital innovation and sustainable operations 

A Student-Led Future 

As a student-led organisation supported by over 500 elected representatives and more than 100 student groups, the Students’ Union will continue to place the student voice at the centre of decision-making.   

The strategy reinforces the Students’ Union’s role as the recognised voice of students - ensuring their views shape university policy, services and the wider student experience.   

A Promise to the University Community and Partners 

The launch of the strategy marks a renewed commitment from the Students’ Union to its community: to be ambitious, adaptable and relentlessly focused on student success. 

Mark Cadwallader, Chief Executive, said: 

“This is more than words on a page — it’s our promise to the University community and our partners. With this strategy as our foundation, we are shaping an amazing future for the Students’ Union with confidence and ambition. Because we are not just part of student life at USW — we are its heartbeat.” 

Looking Ahead 

With a clear direction, strong values and a focus on measurable impact, the Students’ Union’s new strategy sets the course for a more inclusive, engaging and high-performing Students’ Union - designed to meet the needs of today’s students and those of the future.