Freshers 2025 has (nearly) landed!

It's that time again! Freshers Week 2025 is getting closer and we’ve got loads of wonderful events happening in the first two weeks of your Leeds Arts University adventure. Whether you're into something crafty like our felting workshops, are more of a social butterfly so would enjoy our Vegan lunch or want to get involved with some of our amazing sports sessions, we've got something for everyone!

Over the coming weeks you'll meet us - the Union staff team - and learn about the different ways you can get involved in our events, activities, creative opportunities and share your student voice. But first, the fun stuff! In this blog you’ll learn how to get involved with the events happening during Freshers.

Everything is absolutely FREE to get involved in! Keep your eyes on our socials @leedsartsunion to stay in the know and check out the What’s On Page for all our event listings to get signing up. Always make sure to check the long description in case there are any limitations on joining specific events such as needing to join mailing lists, if there's a maximum capacity or having to reserve a time slot.

For the first half of week 1, we’ve everyone's favourite event - the Guide Dogs are back! If the first week of Uni feels like a lot (understandably), you miss your pets at home or you just need a relaxing cuddle with a soft pup, you can sign up to our timeslot sheet on Monday morning before the dogs arrive to avoid missing out on this super popular event!

We're getting you moving with our regular yoga classes and sports society taster sessions, so if you're into your exercise or just fancy trying something new, give it a go. There aren't any auditions or try-outs; all abilities are welcome!

We have an art market hosted at Leeds City Museum with our talented student stallholders. Giving all our new students a chance to see the work LAU produces and shop some items to help decorate your new digs.

Mid way through week 1 we’re bringing you the biggest Freshers Fair we have ever hosted! This will be jam packed with all your soon-to-be favourite Leeds venues, bars, cafes, shops and you’ll be able to pick up a freebie or two! Not to mention a chance to meet some of our Society Leaders and get signing up to all the societies you want to be involved in this year. We also have our amazing University departments hosting stalls! Hear from the University’s workshops and student support about how you can make the most of digital services within your studies. See what other students have been creating and explore your digital capabilities.

A little bit crafty? Us too! Our Calligraphy and Weaving Workshops are your chance to learn a new skill and meet fellow crafters.

Moving into week 2! We are hosting a Pub Quiz on sight with our amazing Quiz Master Max, who will take you through a Yorkshire themed quiz to help settle you into your new student area.

Some of our LAU Communities will be starting in week 2 which will give you an opportunity to meet new people at the University outside of your course areas. Unlike our LAU Societies, LAU Communities are not run by a student leader but instead work as drop-in style events in an open space.

We also have two crafty events from Katy Small (Felted Yarns) who will be running step-by-step workshops showing you how to paint with felt or create a placemat and coaster set. Spaces are limited so get signing up before you miss out!

If you have any questions about any of the Freshers events or anything else Union-y, let us know student.union@leeds-art.ac.uk we can't wait to meet you!