The National Student Council Conference took place on Saturday 20 January at the Jarvis Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester - a central location conveniently close to Edwards where happy hour was utilised from early afternoon in preparation for the evenings' antics (and there were some antics!)

The day consisted of a choice of two out of three workshops -

• holding a new members evening;
• creating and editing a newsletter; and
• effective stress management (something close to all our hearts.)

The workshops were interesting, informative and not confined to student society reps. Although, the new members evening and newsletter workshops were designed to educate student society committee members, the managing stress workshop was more than applicable to all and was the most popular event.

Attendees came from all across the country and further a-field, as four trainees even trekked from the Netherlands, to gain an insight into the workings of student societies and a-few may even have left with the inspiration to become local society reps.

The evening began with a four-course meal and plenty of wine. The theme was school tie fancy dress, which although daunting at first, went down a treat in Canal Street later on and after vast quantities of wine had been consumed, no one cared anyway.

The entertainment was not only provided by the Madonna tribute (pointy bra and all) but also by the embarrassing efforts of no one in particular on the dance floor, the ripping off of items of clothing and renditions of 'Mysterious Cities of Gold' (you don't want to know).

In short, everyone had a right laugh, drank loads, danced loads and a select few even got lucky on the pull (not down Canal Street in case you were wondering).

Local Student Societies and the Council are working for your benefit. Despite all the social events and activities, such bodies tackle important issues on your behalf. Conference is an opportunity to observe first hand what your societies

can do for you, as well as to liaise and socialise with other trainees. Getting lashed is also a bonus.

So go on - 'Get Involved'. Your next conference will be held in Birmingham on May 12th - the theme is going to be 70's so think ABBA and flares, but as always be prepared for anything!

Write up by Rachel Halliwell.