Students' Union Elections
The Students' Union elections are a legal requirement that ensures our organisation is member led by you, the students. They are hosted annually in Term 2, to elect student representatives for the following academic year (e.g. July 1st 2027 - June 30th 2028). If necessary, a by-election is held to fill any remaining vacant positions.
Elections are a key part of our democratic process that elects the officers that will lead the Union in working for, and representing, student interests on campus and beyond. There are President roles (full-time, paid) and Part-Time Officer (voluntary roles undertaken alongside your studies) available each election.
Elections 2027 – Could YOU lead WinchSU next year?
Nominations for Winchester Students’ Union Officer Elections will open in January/February 2027 – could you lead WinchSU next year and represent students’ views to the University and beyond? Roles available include full-time paid President jobs (circa £26,111 salary) and Part-time Officers (voluntary leadership roles undertaken alongside your studies).
Click this link to register your interest, and we’ll contact you with more information about Elections 2026! https://winchesterstudentunion.typeform.com/to/MkIJdLyg
The Process
Our elections happen early in Term 2 (typically January-March time), and go through a series of stages:
- Nominations: During the nominations period, you can put yourself forward to be a candidate for one of the positions open in the upcoming (by)election. We often host ‘Thinking About Nominating Yourself’ Sessions (see below), where you can speak to current officers about their role, and ask any questions you have. You can also get involved by anonymously recommending someone you think would be great for one of the roles – this kind of a boost has often launched past successful candidates to put themselves forward!
- Development: Once nominated, our candidates will have time to work on putting their campaigns together. The Union provides lots of support during this time, including specific training around core campaign skills, including manifesto writing, building your brand, and engaging students.
- Campaigning: Campaigning and voting take place over a single week, and is a chance for candidates to get out and speak to students. You’ll also see a number of Union pop-ups during the week to highlight opportunities for students to vote – which may even include one of our cute and cuddly Democracy Dogs. Our elections use a Single Transferable Vote system (STV).
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who can be an elected Officer at the Students' Union?
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What do elected Officers do?
- How can I nominate myself?
- What is STV?
Who can be an elected Officer at the Students' Union?
Anybody who is a currently registered student of the University of Winchester, and has not elected to ‘opt-out’ of the Students’ Union, are eligible to nominate yourself to become an elected officer. Registered students covers full-time & part-time undergraduates and post-graduates, students on foundation degrees, distance learners, and full-time visiting and exchange students. Elected officers currently in office may also be eligible to nominate themselves for election.
For President roles (Sabbatical Officers), your eligibility will also depend on being able to work full-time hours during your term of office, and being legally entitled to work in the UK.
For Part-Time Officers, you must remain a registered student throughout the term of office for which you are being elected.
What do elected Officers do?
Part-Time Officers (voluntary) are responsible for: promoting and defending the rights of members, campaigning on issues affecting members, and the implementation of Students' Union policy.
Presidents are full-time officers (paid, circa £26,119 p/a salary) (Sabbatical Officers who are also Officer Trustees and Directors) and have a wider remit, including the above, and undertake their work representing students and leading the Students' Union as a full-time job.
To find out more about these positions, please read the Job Packs below:
Presidents - President Role Pack 2026
Part-Time Officers - Part-Time Officer Role Pack 2026
How can I nominate myself?
The nomination process in this election is undertaken online via this website - full details on how to nominate yourself will be made available close to elections time!
What is Single Transferable Vote (STV)?
Our elections are undertaken using a single transferable vote (STV) system. This means that you can vote for your first preference, and then your second preference, and so on. For a fun tutorial video (produced by our colleagues at Lincoln Student Union) on the transferable vote method, please see here.
If you have any further questions about elections, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via suelections@winchester.ac.uk
Elections myths answered
For more Frequently Asked Questions, and other election myths, check out our handy guide, here, where we de-mystify the elections process!
Why should I vote?
Our elections are held annually, giving you an opportunity to elect your new Executive Committee. These officers lead on the Students’ Union’s activity and represent students’ views and opinions for the coming academic year. Voting is important because you get your voice heard!
