Refreshers January 2025
Refreshers at #UofGDumfries
We can't wait to welcome you back to the University of Glasgow School of Social and Environmental Sustainability, situated in the beautiful Crichton grounds in Dumfries. At Dumfries Campus, we are committed to building a strong sense of community. Join us from Monday 6th to Friday 10th January to welcome you back into the new academic term.
When you arrive on campus on your first day, please follow the signs for the Rutherford McCowan Building where you will be greeted by our friendly Staff and Student Ambassadors (look out for the bright pink t-shirts!)
Below you will find the full schedule of events for the week, but please note that exact timings or room allocations are subject to change. If you have any questions, please contact: dumfries-studentexperience@glasgow.ac.uk. Please be aware our staff team will be on holiday from Friday the 20th of December and will return on the 3rd of January so we will not be able to respond during this time.
Monday 6th January
12.00pm - 2.00pm
Welcome Back Clubs and Societies Fair!
Where: Foyer of Rutherford McCowan
In the main foyer of Rutherford McCowan, you'll find a diverse range of organisations, as well as clubs and societies who are ready to welcome you to Dumfries and provide a range of opportunities for different extracurricular activities.
12:30pm - 1:25pm
Pickleball
Where: Dumfries and Galloway College Sports Hall or meet at Foyer or Rutherford McCowan
Discover the joy of pickleball—a fun, easy-to-learn sport that’s perfect for all ages and fitness levels! Whether you’re looking for a social game with friends or a competitive workout, pickleball offers fast-paced action, quick rallies, and plenty of laughter. It’s low-impact yet engaging, making it a fantastic way to stay active and have a blast. Grab a paddle and join the fastest-growing sport in the country today!
1:30pm - 3.00pm
Developing confidence on the bike (control, balance etc) with Cycling UK.
Where: Meet in Foyer of Rutherford McCowan
Book here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/developing-confidence-on-a-bike-tickets-1097240538989?aff=erelpanelorg
Tuesday 7th January
10:00am - 10:45am
It's Good to Talk
Where: R127, Rutherford McCowan Building
An excellent chance to meet Tariq, our Student Support Officer for the school. He will cover the support services the University provides for students and will discuss ways to manage pressure and stress.
10:00am - 11:30am
Library Induction
Where: Dumfries and Galloway College Library or meet at Foyer of Rutherford McCowan
Discover our library services! Explore a wealth of resources, from academic support and research tools to quiet study areas and collaborative spaces, all designed to help you succeed and thrive during your time here.
11:30am -11:45am
Gym and Sports Hall Walkaround
Where: Dumfries and Galloway College Outside Sports Hall
Stay active and energized with the state-of-the-art gym and versatile sports hall! Whether you're into fitness, group classes, or team sports, we’ve got the perfect space to help you reach your goals.
12:30pm - 1:25pm
Womens Touch Rugby Taster Session
Where: Dumfries and Galloway College Sports Hall or meet at Foyer of Rutherford McCowan.
Experience the thrill of women’s rugby—a sport that’s all about power, teamwork, and resilience. Whether you’re looking to compete or just have fun, our team welcomes players of all levels! Hosted by Dumfries Saints Rugby Club.
1:30pm - 3:00pm
Cycling safely on busy roads with Cycling UK
Where: Meet at Foyer of Rutherford McCowan
Book tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cycling-safely-on-busy-roads-tickets-1109148927299?aff=erelpanelorg
Wednesday 8th January
12:30pm - 1:25pm
Karate Taster Session
Where: Dumfries and Galloway College Sports Hall
Unleash your potential with our karate sessions, where discipline, focus, and fitness come together. Open to all skill levels, it’s the perfect way to build confidence and master new techniques! Hosted by Wadokai Karate.
12:30pm - 1:25pm
Table Tennis Taster Session
Where: Dumfries and Galloway College Sports Hall
Whether you're a seasoned player or a total beginner, our table tennis taster is the perfect chance to pick up a paddle and give it a go. Meet new friends, learn a few tips, and enjoy some friendly matches in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Come join the fun with Dumfries Table Tennis Club.
1:30pm - 3:00pm
Cycling Event - Guided ride to Kingholm Quay and back.
Where: Meet at Foyer of Rutherford McCowan
Book here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/led-ride-4-km-tickets-1109174433589?aff=erelpanelorg
Thursday 9th January
10:00am - 12:00pm
Drawing for Enjoyment
Where: R127, Rutherford McCowan Building
Come and join Drawing for Enjoyment for an accessible creative workshop. Feel the benefits of creativity on your wellbeing and gain some basic artistic skills. No experience necessary and all materials provided. A warm sociable environment provides a perfect place to try something new!
12:30pm - 1:25pm
Mens Touch Rugby Taster Session
Where: Dumfries and Galloway College Sports Hall or meet at Foyer of Rutherford McCowan.
Step onto the field with men’s rugby, where strength, strategy, and teamwork drive the game. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, our team is ready to welcome you! Hosted by Dumfries Saints Rugby Club.
Friday 10th January
12:30pm - 1:10pm
NEW UofG Running Club
Where: Meet at Rutherford McCowan Foyer
Join our Running Club and discover a fun, supportive way to stay active while meeting new people! Open to all abilities, we offer relaxed runs, and a welcoming community for everyone.
7.00pm - 9.00pm
Reel to Real Cinema
Where: The Stove Cafe - Booking Required
Orla Barry is a self-confessed ovine addict. After a decade in sheep, she’s still wondering what possessed her to start, yet she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Orla lived in Brussels for 16 years and now lives and works in South East Ireland, where she runs a flock of pedigree Lleyn sheep. Her work deals with the tensions of being an artist and an eco-farmer in rural Ireland. The Sheep have slowed her art career, but at the same time, caring for them has hugely inspired it. She escapes the studio by going to the sheep and escapes the sheep by hiding in her studio.