help us achieve equity in field work
What is our aim?
As a school, we are seeking to raise money for our Essential Field Kit Fund for students who struggle to afford the necessary equipment required to safely and comfortably undertake field work across all of our undergraduate/ postgraduate degree programs.
Education, whether in the class or the field, should be constructed from an equitable platform for all students. Whilst field trip costs are covered, equipment is becoming increasingly expensive, set against a background of soaring rent costs, energy price hikes, and general cost of living increases. Most geoscientists, myself included, were attracted to our field primarily because of its connection to the natural world, and the great outdoors.
We need to ensure as a school that field trips are positive, eye-opening and continue to inspire the same sense of wonder and discovery we felt in our current and future student cohorts. Providing struggling students with essential equipment is an open goal in that we can help take some immediate financial pressure off of their minds, and also will provide them with greater opportunity to enjoy their first ventures into field work, whatever the conditions.
How are we going to achieve this?
We are organising a friendly football event where participants and spectators can contribute financially to our field kit fund, whilst being entertained by free-flowing football of what can only be predicted to be of UEFA Champions League quality...
The details of the event are as follows:
- Date: Thursday 9th May
- Location: Coombe Dingle Sports Complex 3G Synthetic Pitch
- Time: 15:30-17:50
Participants and spectators are asked to donate minimum donations to either play in the match/ tournament (TBD). Minimum donation suggestions:
- Participant: £10 staff/ £5 postgraduate and undergraduate - note that this does not include a small pitch fee that is payable separately to the organiser on the day.
- Spectator: £5 staff/ £3 student
Spectators should note that there is safe standing space behind barriers to the 3G pitch. Weather may be poor (or very good!), so waterproofs, extra layers, umbrellas/ parasols, hats, sun cream, water and snacks are suggested. We can afford seating space on the home and away benches to those who would prefer not to stand for the duration of the match. Please let the organiser know if you would like a seat on the bench (maybe even an assistant manager role!).
Where will the money go?
A donation of £50 buys field waterproofs, £100 buys a pair of hiking boots, £200 provides all the needed kit for one student and £3,000 funds one year worth of kit bursaries.
Organiser details
If you need to get in touch with the organiser, you can contact allan.hollinsworth@bristol.ac.uk. I'm happy to answer any queries about participation or spectating.
