Clubs & Societies

Whether it's keeping active, becoming a champion, discovering new passions and interests, or developing leadership skills, then getting involved in clubs, societies and music ensembles is a must and part of a proud Cambridge tradition.

Clubs

Societies

Music

New Clubs & Societies

    • Any Emmanuel student (JCR or MCR) can start a society at any time.

    • All societies must be open to both JCR and MCR members.

    • ECSU does not fund curricular societies unless events are open to all students (e.g. public talks, not tripos-only socials).

    • To strengthen funding applications, societies should show active engagement — e.g. attending the Freshers’ Fair, posting on social media, advertising events, and holding regular open meetings.

    • Societies must be free to join. If you charge membership fees (“subs”), you won’t be eligible for ECSU funding.

    • Organise your committee – decide on key roles (e.g. President, Secretary, Treasurer).

    • Register your society –

      • a) complete the Society Registration Form(2025/26). This form is emailed termly via emma-updates and available on the ECSU Instagram Linktree.

      • b) To add your new club, society or music ensemble to this directory, you can registere here.

      • Note: Registration is required to book rooms in college.

    • Start running events!

    • If You Want ECSU Funding

      1. Complete registration (see above).

      2. Open a society bank account – ECSU cannot transfer funds to personal accounts. (Metro Bank on Christ’s Lane is recommended.)

      3. Apply for funding – once per term, the ECSU Treasurer will circulate a form.

        • Include an itemised, costed list of planned expenses.

        • ECSU prioritises essential costs (e.g. equipment, materials) over non-essentials (e.g. food, socials).

      4. Wait for allocations – the Treasurer will inform you of your approved funding. You can then start your society’s activities using your funds.

  • Music Funding

    The college’s Burnaby and Jameson Funds offer awards to undergraduate or postgraduate students (studying any subject) to assist with the cost of instrumental and singing lessons taken in Cambridge or elsewhere, during term or in vacations. Grants typically range from £50 to £250. Preference is normally given to those who can demonstrate involvement in the musical life of the College or University, but that is not a prerequisite and all are encouraged to apply. Applications are considered by the Burnaby Committee once a year, at the end of Michaelmas Term. The deadline usually in late November.

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