Community

We believe creative education plays a vital role in tackling global challenges. Through learning, research, and collaboration, we empower our community to respond to issues like climate change and biodiversity loss, shaping a more sustainable future through collective action and informed, creative practice.

Living Wage Employer

The University is accredited by the Living Wage Foundation as a Living Wage Employer.

Sustainability Team

The University’s Sustainability Working Group is open to all staff and students, and is chaired by the Director of Fashion and Textiles, Kevin Freeman and Co-chaired by Fashion Lecturer, Nina Dobson.

The membership includes representation from a wide range of departments across the University including The Library, Estates, Technical Resources, HR, Student Services and the Student Union as well as members of the Academic Community.
The Senior Management Team is represented by Professor Hilary Carlisle, Dean of Creative Education, Professor Dan Lockton:, the Director of the Institute for Sustainable Worlds, Stephen Belderbos, Director of Finance and Planning and Jeremy Smeeth, Chief Operating Officer

The Group reports directly to the Senior Management Team and sustainability updates are a regular Agenda item.

There is a dedicated sustainability budget to support the activities of the working group with recent initiatives including investment in the Green Spaces Project to plant city centre wildlife gardens around our campus sites, the introduction of Sustainability Awards for both Undergrad and Postgrad students in their final shows and the commitment to act as a Hub for Sustainability Fashion Week 2025 to promote ethical practice both locally and nationally.

Staff and students are given lots of opportunities to engage with the activities of the working group through regular email updates and access to the University’s dedicated sustainability intranet page and Instagram page. Examples of such opportunities include helping with beach cleans, litter picks, plant and book swaps.

There is a dedicated sustainability page on our intranet which has lots of useful resources for students and staff:

• A directory of sustainable shops and cafes in Norwich.
• What is the University doing about sustainability? Answers to some frequently asked questions about topics like energy use and recycling at the university.
• A message board to share your ideas, suggestions, and questions.
• Sustainable travel tips. Here we include reminders of the locations of campus bike racks, showers, and lockers, as well as travel-to-work schemes for staff.
• A tool to check your own carbon footprint and links to other sustainability resources.

The Students’ Union has representation on the Sustainability Working Group. The Students’ Union President is a member of the University Council, which is the senior committee of the University that oversees strategic decision-making.

Sustainability is one of the core values of the Students’ Union strategic plan.

Community Pantry

Led by the Student Union, the Community Pantry is part of our commitment to student wellbeing and equity—ensuring that no student at Norwich University of the Arts goes without essentials.

Located in the community kitchen next to the SU Lounge in St Andrews House, the space is open to all students and offers free tea, coffee, and hot chocolate, along with access to a microwave and toaster.

The pantry stocks non-perishable food, toiletries, and useful everyday items, with donations always welcome—whether it’s tinned goods, stationery, or small kitchen equipment in good condition. These contributions help keep the pantry well-stocked and diverse, offering practical support to students across the university.

Green spaces

In May 2025, the Sustainability Working Group (SWG) proudly supported the launch of a student-led Green Spaces project, aimed at creating biodiverse, sustainable outdoor areas across campus. This initiative empowers students to actively shape their environment by planting native species, wildflowers, and pollinator-friendly plants that enhance local biodiversity and improve campus wellbeing.

By transforming underused areas into vibrant green spaces, the project encourages community engagement, outdoor learning, and a stronger connection to nature — all vital for fostering environmental awareness and sustainability values among students and staff alike. The Green Spaces project reflects our shared commitment to nurturing a healthier, greener campus for everyone.

Green travel

As part of our commitment to supporting low-carbon lifestyles, the University offers practical initiatives that make sustainable travel more accessible for all students.

• Bicycle repair: In partnership with Bicycle Links, we provide free bicycle repair to help students travel safely and sustainably around the city. The scheme covers basic repairs and essential parts, including inner tubes and brake pads, ensuring that cycling remains an affordable, low-impact transport option for our community.
• Travel subsidy voucher: We also offer discounted student bus travel, working closely with First Bus and Konectbus to provide flexible, affordable options for everyday journeys.

Careers and employability

Learn how Norwich University of the Arts ensures ethical, fair, and environmentally responsible partnerships and employment opportunities.