History

The National Student is the UK's independent national newspaper and magazine for higher education students.
It is widely distributed to universities, students' unions, accommodation blocks, campus libraries and HE colleges throughout the UK.

The National Student newspaper first launched with it's pilot edition in April 2003. Up until this point there was no national UK student publication for students.

The National Student was started because of the need to provide students in the UK with balanced information which was not influenced by any political or commercial factors. The intention of the paper was to become a voice for students provided by students.

Following a development and consultation period, which included the launch of The National Student website, full regular editions of the title began circulating every month during term time from February 2004. The newspaper was greeted by much enthusiasm from the student community.

The paper enjoyed it's first special 'Freshers Edition' in September 2004, which carried a bumper 'Summer Festivals' review pull-out and saw the birth of The National Student compilation CD series 'Fresher Sounds', which aims to highlight the best new musical talent from the UK and abroad.

September 2005 saw the release of the highly successful second installment of the 'Fresher Sounds' series, featuring music from the likes of Editors, The Go! Team, Brakes and One Self. This successful series of CD compilations continues with a new installment available through the paper each September.

The National Student has developed many relationships with groups and organisations whose work is of benefit to students, whether it be charities (Greenpeace, Amnesty International, the Big Issue Foundation) or other organisations who can help students with problems (Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education).

The paper has also supported many student and graduate ventures including Loughborough Students Union's record label Uni-ty Records and many other businesses and fund-raising activities.

April 2006, saw the launch of The National Student Magazine, a magazine supplement focussing on lifestyle, entertainment and culture content. With this, a new on-line mini-site was launched for magazine content in the same month.

The National Student currently distributes 100,000 copies across the UK.