Societies

Start a new society

Got an idea for a society? We are always excited to help new societies kick-start their planning and events.

Get the constitution proposal Email the societies team

What every society needs

  • A committeeWith at least a President and a Treasurer.
  • MembersAt least 4 members who are not on the committee, so 6 people in total with the committee.

How to start a society

  1. Get your committee together

    Find students who will help run and organise the society.

  2. Complete the Society Constitution Proposal

    Outline your society’s aims, structure and plans, then email it to smsu.societies@stmarys.ac.uk.

  3. Student Opportunities Panel review

    Your proposal is reviewed to make sure it can succeed.

  4. Meet with the SMSU team

    Find out how your Students’ Union can support you.

  5. Fill in the society registration form

    Once your constitution has been approved, complete the form to officially register your society.

  6. Attend Society Training

    Complete the required training sessions.

  7. Get your members and get planning

    Promote your society and organise your first activities.

The constitution proposal and starter pack open from your SMSU account, so you may be asked to sign in.

New Society Starter Pack

Take a look at our New Society Starter Pack to help you get started. You can also pop into the SMSU office on the Student Square to collect a physical copy.

Download the starter pack

Any questions?

We are always excited to help new societies kick-start their planning and events, so please reach out and have a chat. Email us, or book a meeting with the Student Opportunities Coordinator.

Societies team: smsu.societies@stmarys.ac.uk
Student Opportunities Coordinator: millie.fuller@stmarys.ac.uk

Prefer to take over an existing society?

Do you fancy adopting a society? If you want to build your leadership skills, plan awesome activities and have fun while doing it, we want to hear from you. We’re looking for people who can take over running a society when its committee leaves, and you’ll receive full support from SMSU.

See societies up for adoption