The Union of Kingston Students (UKS) is the officially recognized students' union for Kingston University in London, United Kingdom. It operates as a nonprofit organization with the registered charity number 1144763. The Union is run by students for students and serves as the representative body for the entire student community at Kingston University.

History

The origins of the Union date back to 1947, when it was first founded by returning soldiers attending the then Kingston Technical Institute. Initially, the Union experienced limited student engagement; however, by the mid-1950s it began to gain momentum, with events such as the Freshers Ball drawing large attendance.

In November 1969, following the merger of Kingston Art School and Kingston College of Technology, two separate student unions combined to form a single unified union. This period was marked by significant student activism, notably in 1971 when protests occurred after the local council refused to increase the Union's allowance post-merger. The issue escalated nationally due to regulations on student union funding and compulsory membership, culminating in demonstrations including lecture boycotts and occupation of college facilities.

Throughout the 1970s, the Union was actively involved in campaigns addressing student accommodation shortages and improving campus facilities such as libraries. The decade featured occupations and protests advocating for better provisions and innovative course reforms.

Role and Activities

The Union of Kingston Students operates as a democratic, student-led organization that provides a wide range of services and support for students. Its key functions include:

• Representing student views to the university administration and at the national level.
• Offering independent advice and support services.
• Organizing sports clubs and a variety of student societies.
• Coordinating events and activities, including the well-known Freshers’ Week.
• Providing volunteering opportunities to engage students in community and campus life.

The Union aims to enhance the student experience by fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, promoting student welfare, and creating social and developmental opportunities for all students.

Governance and Structure

As a charity and membership organization, the Union’s leadership is composed of elected student representatives who oversee its activities and ensure that it remains accountable and responsive to the student body. The Union’s democratic framework encourages active participation in decision-making processes and campaigning efforts.

Relationship with Kingston University

The Union of Kingston Students is intrinsically linked to Kingston University, supporting the institution’s mission to provide a fulfilling educational experience. It plays a critical role in campus life, bridging the gap between the university administration and its student population.

This summary encapsulates the Union of Kingston Students' historical development, core functions, and significance within Kingston University, reflecting its commitment to representing and supporting its students since its founding in the mid-20th century[1][3][4][5].

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Union_of_Kingston_Students [2] https://contentdm.kingston.ac.uk/digital/collection/p16680coll3/id/3456/ [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kingston_University [4] https://www.kingston.ac.uk/about/our-history [5] https://www.kingston.ac.uk/undergraduate/why-choose-kingston-university/student-life/students-union/