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 in April 2003. Up until
this point there was no UK-wide student publication.
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, regular editions of the title
began circulating every month during term time. The newspaper was
greeted with 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.
