Josh Darlington

Vice President Education

Overview of Priorities

• Stronger student voice in education
• Education that leads to employment
• Accessible, affordable and supportive education

Manifesto in Full

Hello, my name is Josh Darlington, and I am running for VP Education because I care about students and the quality of education at LJMU. I am currently an MA Film student and a Course Rep, with experience as both an undergraduate and postgraduate student. This gives me an understanding of the challenges students face and how to support them.  

A Stronger Student Voice in Education  
Students should be heard when it matters most. I will introduce weekly in-person drop-in sessions and work towards a 24/7 online academic concerns system to ensure issues are raised and resolved quickly. I will push for earlier module feedback, clearer marking criteria, and a fair grace period policy for minor late submissions to make academic processes more transparent.  

Education That Leads to Employment  
A degree should prepare students for life after university. I will advocate for industry-relevant training courses that develop practical skills not always covered in courses. I will work to ensure every degree includes hands-on experience through guest lectures, employer panels, networking events, and increased internship and placement opportunities.  

Accessible, Affordable and Supportive Education  
Financial and practical barriers should never prevent students from succeeding. I will campaign for free stationery giveaways, printing credits, and improved promotion of financial aid and hardship funds. I will also push for fairer scholarships across all schools, support course-specific societies, and host regular student pop-ups focused on feedback, careers, and resources.  

Please vote for me to strengthen student voice, improve education quality, and deliver change for students.