School of Social & Environmental Sustainability

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Welcome Week 2026

Welcome to Dumfries Welcome Week #TeamUofG

We are delighted to welcome you to the University of Glasgow Dumfries Campus as you begin this exciting new academic year. Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning to campus, Welcome Week is your opportunity to meet new people, settle in, and start feeling part of our supportive and close‑knit campus community. Welcome Week will take place from Monday 14th September, giving you plenty of time to settle in before classes begin on Monday 21st September.

Across this week, you’ll take part in a range of events and activities designed to help you get to know the campus, connect with staff and fellow students, and prepare for the year ahead. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions, explore available support, and enjoy everything that makes studying in Dumfries so special.

Please note that any sessions marked as mandatory (M) must be attended. All sessions will be delivered on campus unless otherwise stated. While we aim to deliver all events as scheduled, sessions may be subject to change or cancellation if required by the University.

Some activities require advance online booking. If you experience any difficulties with this, please contact dumfries-studentexperience@glasgow.ac.uk for assistance.

 Please allow plenty of time to get signed in during your first few days on campus, as we expect the foyer to be particularly busy.

 We look forward to welcoming you to campus and wish you a fantastic Welcome Week and a successful year ahead.

Please note that this page is still in development and we will keep adding information as and when it becomes available. Please follow our Instagram @UofGDumfriesCampus for more updates. 


#UofGDumfries

Directions and How to Find Us

Click below to download our PDF version of the programme for 2026:

Welcome Week Programme 2026

Welcome Fairs & Swap Shop

Over three days, the campus will be packed with organisations, groups, and opportunities for you to explore.

Community and Opportunities Fair
Discover volunteering, part-time work, student projects, and local organisations you can get involved with.

Monday 14th & Tuesday 15th from 11:00 - 14:00.

Sustainability Fair
Meet people driving change in areas such as climate action, ethical living, and social impact. You’ll also have the opportunity to
connect with local organisations looking for student volunteers.

Wednesday 16th from 11:00 - 14:00.

Swap Shop

Looking for a few essentials or want to give your unwanted items a new home? Visit the Swap Shop in The Snug, Rutherford, every day during Welcome Week! Simply bring along clean, good-quality items you no longer need and swap them for something that’s useful to you, or just browse what’s available. From kitchenware and stationery to clothing and household items, you never know what treasures you might find.

The Swap Shop is a simple way to save money, reduce waste, and support a more sustainable campus community. Drop in throughout Welcome Week, see what’s on offer, and discover how easy it is to swap, share and reuse.

Campus Tours

On Monday 14th, Wednesday 16th and Friday 18th from 14:00 -15:30 we’ll be running a campus tour including a library, sport and gym tour which is mandatory for new students to attend. These tours are a great way to get familiar with your surroundings and feel confident heading into your first week of teaching. Pick up from Cafe Rutherford.

Book Here

Monday 14 September - Arrival & Belonging

Welcome to Your First Day on Campus! Today is all about getting you settled and warmly welcoming you into our school community. Please make your way to the main foyer at Rutherford McCowan to register on arrival. You’ll be greeted by our friendly team of Student Ambassadors, who will be easy to spot in their bright pink attire. They will assist you with signing in and getting started for the day.

Please note that all new students are required to attend the sessions marked (M), as these are mandatory.

10:00 - 10:15

Welcome to the School of Social and Environmental Sustainability! (Mandatory) 

Where: R127

Our Head of School will welcome you to the School of Social and Environmental Sustainability with an introduction all about life, learning and teaching at Dumfries Campus. They will also discuss some interesting developments that are coming up within the school this academic year. 

10:15 - 10:30 

The Role of your Advisor of Study (Mandatory)

Where: R127

This session will be important to ensure that as a student you know who to go to in terms of academic support and how they can help you during your student journey

10:30 - 10:55

Student Support & Extenuating Circumstances (Mandatory)

Where: R127

We will be highlighting all of the support services and resources available to students. These include: 

  • Finances 
  • Accommodation 
  • Personal problems 
  • Career and employability information 
  • Study support  
  • Accessing counselling services 
  • Support for disabilities 
  • Extenuating Circumstances

10:55 - 11:10

Student Representation (Mandatory)

Where: R127

You will find out more about the Student and Staff Liaison Committee (SSLC), your important role as a student and the benefits that you receive for getting involved as a Student Rep.

11:10 - 11:45

Explore Community & Opportunities Fair

Discover volunteering, part-time work, student projects, and local organisations you can get involved with.

11:45-12:15

GUDU to Meet You & SRC Welcome (Mandatory)

Where: R127

Glasgow University Dumfries Union (GUDU) and the Student Representative Council (SRC) are excited to meet you! They’ll be on hand to share how they represent and support our students, as well as to highlight all the fantastic events they have planned for Welcome Week and beyond.

12:15 - 12:30

Your Student Experience & Student Hub (Mandatory)

Where: R127

Jeanna will introduce her role in supporting you to have the best possible student experience during your time in Dumfries. She’ll also highlight opportunities to get involved as a student partner on projects, and give you a tour of the Student Hub in Rutherford McCowan.

12:30 - 12:45

Security, Safety & Support on Campus (Mandatory)

Where: R127

Conall and Jethro will be taking you through information and advice about staying safe on and off campus. There will be information about our UofG SafeZone App which is a must for every student on campus.   

12:45 - 14:00

Break & Explore Community & Opportunities Fair

Discover volunteering, part-time work, student projects, and local organisations you can get involved with.

13:00 - 13:30

Questions? Come chat to the Student Ambassadors (Drop in)

Where: Student Hub

Our friendly Student Ambassadors will be available everyday this week from Monday to Friday from 13:00 - 14:00 in The Student Hub to come and speak to and ask any questions you might have. No need to book, just come along.

13:30 - 14:00

Student Residences Meet & Greet (Mandatory for Those Staying in Student Accommodation)

A special welcome session for those living in University accommodation and Halls of Residence.  

Where: R127

14:00 - 15:30 

Meet your Undergraduate Degree Convenor (Mandatory for New UG Students)

Where: R127

This important session gives you the opportunity to meet your fellow classmates and members of the teaching team for your programme.

14:00 - 15:30 

Campus Tour (Mandatory to attend one during Welcome Week)

Where: Rutherford Cafe

On Monday 14th, Wednesday 16th and Friday 18th from 14:00 -15:30 we’ll be running a campus tour including a library, sport and gym tour which is mandatory for new students to attend. These tours are a great way to get familiar with your surroundings and feel confident heading into your first week of teaching. Pick up from Cafe Rutherford.

Book Here

15:30 - 17:00

Tour of the Toon with Student Ambassadors (Limited Spaces, Sign Up Now)

Where: Main Foyer of Rutherford McCowan

Let our Student Ambassadors show you around Dumfries and introduce you to some of the town's hidden gems, favourite student hangouts, and useful local services. It's a great opportunity to get your bearings, meet other students, and discover what Dumfries has to offer.

15:30 - 16:00

Registration & Enrolment Drop in

Where: Student Hub

If you have any questions or issues involving timetable, enrolment, academic, or financial registration then please come along to the Student Hub. These sessions are available to all students on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday during Welcome Week from 15:30 - 16:00.

19:00 Onwards 

GUDU Quiz Night 

Where: Greens Pub 

Join GUDU for a fun Pub quiz at Greens! Make a team with your newfound classmates or join us to have a go at some trivia for great prizes including merch and gift cards! 

Get your Welcome Week Wristband! 

 

Tuesday 15th September - Connections & Community

Today is your chance to make new connections, explore what’s on offer both on and off campus, and start feeling at home in our vibrant community. From meeting local partners and discovering support services to enjoying a BBQ in the Teaching Garden, taking part in our community café crawl, and cheering on (or joining!) the student–staff football match, there’s something for everyone. 

11:00 - 11:15

Moodle Walkthrough (Mandatory) 

Heather will guide you through the basics of using Moodle and share top tips on how to make the most of the platform. 

Where: R127

11:15 - 11:25

Meet the Facilities Team (Mandatory) 

Lesley will introduce you to some of the facilities team and explain how they are here to help you. This includes room bookings, room set ups and reporting faults.  
 
Where: R127

11:25 - 11:35

Staying Active on Campus (Mandatory)

Connor and Warren from D&G College and UWS will be speaking about the gym, fitness classes, and sports activities available free of charge to all University of Glasgow students.

Where: R127

11:35 - 11:55

Staying Safe with Police Scotland (Mandatory)

Our local community police officers will be on campus to share important information around scam awareness, online safety and keeping yourself safe in Dumfries.

Where: R127

11:55 - 12:30

Selfie Scavenger Hunt & Bingo

A fun way to meet new people, explore campus, and get to know your fellow students.

Where:  R127

12:30 - 14:00

Welcome BBQ In The Teaching Garden

Come and enjoy a free lunch in the teaching garden. This is not one to miss. Sign up required.

13:00 - 13:30

Questions? Come chat to the Student Ambassadors (Drop in)

Where: Student Hub

Our friendly Student Ambassadors will be available everyday this week from Monday to Friday from 13:00 - 13:30 in The Student Hub to come and speak to and ask any questions you might have. No need to book, just come along.

13:45 - 14:00

ICT Supporting You To Get Online (Mandatory to attend one session during Welcome Week)

Where: IT Lab R247

Our ICT Manager Stephen will run through some important details about getting on the school WIFI as well as using the computers in the ICT Lab.

Sign up required. 

14:00 - 16:00

GUDU Cafe Crawl (limited spaces)

Book a space on the mini bus. This is a free GUDU activity. 

Where: Meet outside Rutherford McCowan

Join GUDU in exploring the local independent coffee shops Dumfries has to offer while getting your bearings on the local area. We will show you the best places for a good student discount, loyalty scheme and of course the best coffees and cakes!

16:30 - 18:00

Student vs Staff Football Match

Where: Crichton Playing Fields

Last year the staff were victorious... this year it's time for the students' comeback. Students vs Staff. Game on! This is a free activity. 

Interested? Free Sign up

19:30 onwards

GUDU UV Night

Where: Greens Pub Dumfries 

Get ready to glow at our Ultraviolet night! We will provide the face paint, lights and music just bring your best dance moves and wear white, fluorescent clothes or old tops you can paint! 
Not too sure about this event don't worry it will only be in part of the pub so want to have a nosy before you go or stay at the same venue as your friends but chill with some darts, board games or pool come along too. 
 

 

Wednesday 26th September - Sustainability & Global Citizenship

Learn more about the values, people, and opportunities that define the School of Social and Environmental Sustainability. Through interactive stalls and activities, you’ll explore how sustainability, social justice, and community engagement are embedded in everything we do, helping you develop the knowledge and skills to create meaningful change. 

10:00 - 12:00

Cycle Tour Around Dumfries with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust 

Where: Front of Rutherford McCowan

Book here and remember to send an email to dumfries-studentexperience@glasgow.ac.uk to inform them of your height for free bike hire.  

Spaces are limited, and attendees will have the opportunity to hire a bike for the semester or full academic year.

11:00 - 14:00

Sustainability Fair, Bike Repair Services & Pet Therapy 

Meet the people driving positive change, from climate action and ethical living to social impact, at our Sustainability Fair. Bring your bike along for a free quick MOT with Dr Bike, and stop by Pets as Therapy for a well-deserved cuddle with a therapy dog.

11:00 - 14:00 

Bossman Street Food 

Where: Front of Rutherford McCowan

Serving up authentic chicken shawarma, homemade falafel, grilled halloumi and loaded fries - handmade with passion, fire, and flavour.

12:00 - 15:00

GUDU Coffee & Cake Mixer 

Where: Student Hub

Join GUDU's Coffee & Cake Mixer for a delicious selection of homemade bakes, sweet treats, and tasty goodies. This is a free event. 

12:00 - 13:00

Craft Society Natural Collage Making

Where: R236

Get creative with nature! Join the Craft Society for a relaxing natural collage-making session, where you'll use leaves, flowers, and other natural materials to create your own unique artwork. No experience needed, just bring your imagination! This is a free event. 

12:45 - 13:00

ICT Supporting You to Get Online (Mandatory to attend one session during Welcome Week)

Where: IT Lab R247

Our ICT Manager Stephen will run through some important details about getting on the school WIFI as well as using the computers in the ICT Lab.

Sign up. 

13:00 - 14:00

Welcome to the Garden

Where: Teaching Garden

Step into our green space at our ‘Welcome to the Garden’ event. Have a go at planting seeds for the future, learn more about our weekly gardening sessions, test your knowledge in the nature quiz and try your hand at our photography competition with prizes to be won. Free activity.

13:00 - 13:30

Questions? Come chat to the Student Ambassadors (Drop in)

Where: Student Hub

Our friendly Student Ambassadors will be available everyday this week from Monday to Friday from 13:00 - 13:30 in The Student Hub to come and speak to and ask any questions you might have. No need to book, just come along.

14:00 - 15:30

Screening of Climate Change Film

Where: R127

Join us for a screening of the People's Emergency Briefing on the climate and nature crisis, followed by an informal discussion where you can share your thoughts, explore solutions, and connect with others who care about the future of our planet. This is a free event. 

14:00 - 15:30 

Campus Tour (Mandatory to attend one during Welcome Week)

Where: Rutherford Cafe

On Monday 14th, Wednesday 16th and Friday 18th from 14:00 -15:30 we’ll be running a campus tour including a library, sport and gym tour which is mandatory for new students to attend. These tours are a great way to get familiar with your surroundings and feel confident heading into your first week of teaching. Pick up from Cafe Rutherford.

Book Here

15:30 - 16:00

Enrolment and Registration Drop in

Where: Student Hub

If you have any questions or issues involving timetable, enrolment, academic, or financial registration then please come along to the Student Hub. These sessions are available to all students on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday during Welcome Week from 15:30 - 16:00.

16:00 - 17:30

In it For the Long-game, In it For the Love: Climate Action Workshop

Where:R236

Free vegan, fairtrade, B-corp chocolate
  1. Meet others who care deeply about our planet
  2. Make new connections, potential friends
  3. Increase your impact through community
  4. Be the future you want to see
What do you love? What are your superpowers? How can you help solve the climate crisis?
An opportunity to get to know new friends better and think deeply about being part of a solution-based response to climate change which is quite literally life-changing.
 
 
19:00 for a 19:30 start
 
GUDU Bingo Night
 
Where: Greens Pub Dumfries 
 
BINGO! Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned pro come along for some fun bingo games and a chance to win prizes with GUDU and Greens.
 

 

Thursday 17th September - Wellbeing & Heritage

Today is all about getting active, exploring your surroundings, and supporting your wellbeing. From friendly Sports Day activities to a guided walk and a visit to local historical landmarks, you’ll have the chance to connect with others, discover more about the region, and enjoy a healthy balance of fun, learning, and community.

10:00 - 12:30

Visit Caerlaverock Castle with the Walking Society & Dumfries Student Experience

Explore the historic fortress, enjoy a scenic walk, and spend time with fellow students in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. No previous walking experience is needed, just come along and enjoy the adventure!

Book here - limited spaces 

12:45 - 13:00

Becoming a Student Ambassador

Where: R127

This is your opportunity to find out more about becoming a paid Student Ambassador at our Dumfries Campus. 

13:00 - 13:30

Questions? Come chat to the Student Ambassadors (Drop in)

Where: Student Hub

Our friendly Student Ambassadors will be available everyday this week from Monday to Friday from 13:00 - 13:30 in The Student Hub to come and speak to and ask any questions you might have. No need to book, just come along.

13:30 - 14:00

GUDU - Find out more about becoming a Committee Member

Where: R127

Interested in joining GUDU as a committee member? Come along to find out more about the roles and responsibilities that we have to offer, and the kind of benefits included in being a part of GUDU. We look forward to seeing you there. 

14:00 - 16:30

Sports & Fun Fest with GUDU & Dumfries Student Experience

Where: Front of Rutherford McCowan

Come along to our sports day in collaboration with DGC to have some active fun. From egg and spoon and sack race to a big game of rounders at the end there is something for everyone so come along and have some fun. This is a free event. 

15:30 - 16:00

Enrolment and Registration Drop in

Where: Student Hub

If you have any questions or issues involving timetable, enrolment, academic, or financial registration then please come along to the Student Hub. These sessions are available to all students on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday during Welcome Week from 15:30 - 16:00.

19:30 onwards
 
GUDU Open Mic Night
 
Where: Riverside Tap
 
Join us at The Riverside tap for an open mic night. Whether you just want to be part of the audience or want to share your singing, poetry, comedy, instruments or anything else come along and have some fun. All mics and amps will be provided so if you are not sure just turn up and see where the night takes you. Get your Welcome Week Wristband now!
 
20:00 onwards 
 
GUDU Games Night Drop In 
 
Where: Greens Pub
 
If the open mic night is not really you're thing you can head along to our games drop in at Greens for a more chill night with board games and cards.
 
This is a free event. 

 

Friday 18th September - Discover & Succeed

Through opportunities to meet your Programme Director and Degree Convenor, connect with fellow postgraduate students, and learn about the technologies shaping modern higher education, you’ll be equipped to thrive both academically and personally throughout your time with us.

10:00 - 10:10

Meet the Postgraduate Director (Mandatory for PGs)

Where: R127

Our Postgraduate Director will deliver an official welcome to postgraduate students.

10:10 - 11:30

Meet the Postgraduate Degree Convenor (Mandatory for PGs)

Where: R127

This important session gives you the opportunity to meet your fellow classmates and members of the teaching team for your programme.

End of Life Studies will be an online session, see details below:
 
Microsoft Teams meeting from 10:15 - 11:30
Meeting ID: 389 243 763 920 088
Passcode: xV2ec9hc

11:30 - 12:45

Postgraduate Coffee Morning

Where: Easterbrook Bistro

Join fellow postgraduate students from across the School of Social and Environmental Sustainability at the Crichton Bistro, where you’ll enjoy a hot drink, traybake, and the chance to connect with peers and teaching staff in a friendly, informal setting.

12:45 - 13:00

ICT Supporting You To Get Online (Mandatory to attend one during Welcome Week)

Where: IT Lab R247

Our ICT Manager Stephen will run through some important details about getting on the school WIFI as well as using the computers in the ICT Lab.

Sign up required.

13:00 - 13:30

GUDU International Welcome

Where: R236

Join us for a friendly welcome event designed to help international students connect, make new friends, and learn more about student life in Dumfries. Everyone is welcome. This is a free event. 

13:00 - 13:30

Questions? Come chat to the Student Ambassadors (Drop in)

Where: Student Hub

Our friendly Student Ambassadors will be available everyday this week from Monday to Friday from 13:00 - 13:30 in The Student Hub to come and speak to and ask any questions you might have. No need to book, just come along.

13:30 - 14:00

Beach Clean Society Welcome & Quiz

Where: R236

Join the Beach Clean Society for a Welcome Session and Fun Quiz! Meet other interested students, learn about upcoming beach cleans, and put your eco-knowledge to the test. This is a free event. 

14:00 - 15:30 

Campus Tour (Mandatory to attend one during Welcome Week)

Where: Rutherford Cafe

On Monday 14th, Wednesday 16th and Friday 18th from 14:00 -15:30 we’ll be running a campus tour including a library, sport and gym tour which is mandatory for new students to attend. These tours are a great way to get familiar with your surroundings and feel confident heading into your first week of teaching. Pick up from Cafe Rutherford.

Book Here

19:30 onwards
 
GUDU Pub Golf
 
Where: Greens Pub Meet Up 
 
Fancy getting familiar with the pubs that Dumfries has to offer in a fun group environment, meet us at Greens at 19:30 where we will give you the scoresheets and we can embark on our tour of the best pubs in Dumfries while completing some fun challenges. Not a drinker do not worry every challenge has an alcohol-free alternative so you can still come along and participate! 
 

Make The Most of Your Evenings with GUDU

Get involved with Glasgow University Dumfries Union during Welcome Week! With plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make connections, there's something for everyone. And be sure to join us for the Saturday Ceilidh – you won't want to miss it. Questions? Email the GUDU Committee at info@gudu.org.uk. Follow us on our socials @gudumfriesunion.

Don’t miss a single GUDU event this Welcome Week! Grab a Welcome Week Wristband for just £15 and enjoy entry to all GUDU events.

Buy yours now!

Monday 14th September

19:00 Onwards 

GUDU Quiz Night 

Where: Greens Pub 

Join GUDU for a fun Pub quiz at Greens! Make a team with your newfound classmates or join us to have a go at some trivia for great prizes including merch and gift cards! 

Tuesday 15th September 

19:30 onwards

GUDU UV Night

Where: Greens Pub Dumfries 

Get ready to glow at our Ultraviolet night! We will provide the face paint, lights and music just bring your best dance moves and wear white, fluorescent clothes or old tops you can paint! 
Not too sure about this event don't worry it will only be in part of the pub so want to have a nosy before you go or stay at the same venue as your friends but chill with some darts, board games or pool come along too. 
 
Wednesday 16th September 
 
19:00 for a 19:30 start
 
GUDU Bingo Night
 
Where: Greens Pub Dumfries 
 
BINGO! Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned pro come along for some fun bingo games and a chance to win prizes with GUDU and Greens.
 
Thursday 17th September
 
19:30 onwards
 
GUDU Open Mic Night
 
Where: Riverside Tap
 
Join us at The Riverside tap for an open mic night. Whether you just want to be part of the audience or want to share your singing, poetry, comedy, instruments or anything else come along and have some fun. All mics and amps will be provided so if you are not sure just turn up and see where the night takes you. 
 
20:00 onwards 
 
GUDU Games drop in 
 
Where: Greens Pub
 
If the open mic night is not really you're thing you can head along to our games drop in at Greens for a more chill night with board games and cards.
 
Friday 18th September 
 
19:30 onwards
 
GUDU Pub Golf
 
Where: Greens Pub Meet Up 
 
Fancy getting familiar with the pubs that Dumfries has to offer in a fun group environment, meet us at Greens at 19:30 where we will give you the scoresheets and we can embark on our tour of the best pubs in Dumfries while completing some fun challenges. Not a drinker do not worry every challenge has an alcohol-free alternative so you can still come along and participate! 
 
Saturday 19th September
 
19:30
 
GUDU Ceilidh 
 
Where: The Railway Club 
 
Whether you are from Scotland or completely new to the country come along to our fresher's ceilidh for some fun traditional Scottish dancing.  Our band will teach you all the dances step by step as we go through so no worries if you don't know what you are doing and we can all have fun and learn together. 
 
Free shuttle bus to and from the venue to Student Accommodation. 
 
 
 

 

Sports & Gym

Every day during Welcome Week and beyond, sports sessions take place at D&G College from 12:30 to 13:30 and 16:30 onwards. Join
in, get active, and meet other students.

Check out the weekly timetable here

As a student at UofG you also have free gym access. 

Registration and Enrolment

If you have any questions or issues involving timetable, enrolment, academic, or financial registration then please come along to the Student Hub. These sessions are available to all students on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday during Welcome Week from 15:30 - 16:30.

Please note that there is also a drop in session on Wednesday the 26th of August 2026 between 14:00 - 15:00 GMT on Microsoft Teams for any queries.

Meeting ID: 348 433 384 533 164

Passcode: AS735Q2s
 
Visa Registration
 
On Wednesday 23 September, in R204, visa registration appointments will be available for our students. Book here

Ambassador Check Ins

Questions? Check In With Our Friendly Student Ambassadors

Our friendly Student Ambassadors will be available everyday this week from Monday to Friday from 13:00 - 13:30 in The Student Hub to come and speak to and ask any questions you might have. No need to book, just come along.