AUSA and the University have overhauled the Class Representation Policy — scrapping the old one-size-fits-all formula in favour of flexible Course and Cohort Rep models, and putting more weight behind Student–Staff Consultative Committees. Here's what's changing, and what it means for you.
The University of Auckland, in partnership with AUSA, has revised its Class Representation Policy, introducing a clearer and more consistent framework for student representation across the University. The updated policy strengthens the University's commitment to ensuring students have meaningful opportunities to share feedback, contribute to decision-making, and help shape their learning experience.
The policy recognises class representatives as an important link between students and teaching staff, supporting constructive dialogue and continuous improvement in teaching, learning, and the overall student experience.
What's Changed?
One of the most significant changes is the move away from a prescribed formula for appointing class representatives. Rather than requiring a set number of representatives based on class size, academic units now have greater flexibility to determine the most appropriate representation model for their courses and programmes. This allows faculties to tailor representation to suit different teaching contexts while maintaining effective student engagement.
The policy also formally distinguishes between two types of representatives:
- Course Representatives, who represent students enrolled in a specific course.
- Cohort Representatives, who represent students within a programme, year group, or research cohort where a course-based model may not be suitable.
This distinction ensures that students in a wider range of learning environments, including postgraduate and research programmes, have opportunities to be represented.
Another key feature of the policy is the strengthened focus on Student–Staff Consultative Committees (SSCCs). These committees provide a structured forum where class representatives and staff can discuss student feedback, celebrate what is working well, and collaboratively address areas for improvement. The policy also provides flexibility for academic units to establish SSCCs in ways that best meet their local needs while maintaining a consistent University-wide approach.
What Does This Mean for Students?
For students, the new policy aims to make representation more meaningful, consistent, and responsive. By providing greater flexibility in how representatives are appointed, the policy helps ensure that student voice is effectively represented across different disciplines, teaching models, and programmes.
For class representatives, the policy provides greater clarity about their role as advocates for their peers and as partners in enhancing the student experience. It also strengthens the structures through which feedback can be shared and acted upon, helping representatives see the impact of the work they do.
Overall, the new Class Representation Policy establishes a stronger foundation for student voice at the University, ensuring that student feedback continues to play an important role in improving teaching, learning, and the wider educational experience.
See the full Class Representative Policy & Procedures and the Guidelines document.