BUCS is pleased to launch the Making changes to BUCS competitions framework (Version 2.0). This new, practical multi-route framework sets out how new sports, disciplines, structural changes, and trial events or categories can be piloted, reviewed and adopted within BUCS competitions.
Aligned with the BUCS Strategy, the framework supports our ambition to deliver exceptional student sporting experiences that inspire, develop, and unite. It is designed to help us move ideas from concept to delivery faster, while maintaining robust governance and member engagement at every step, reflecting our values of being innovative, inclusive, and dynamic in how we evolve our competitions.
Why this matters
The student sport landscape is changing fast. The framework gives BUCS a transparent set of routes to test fresh formats, respond to participation trends and introduce new competitive opportunities, in a way that protects the integrity of BUCS programmes and supports inclusive participation. It will enable us to provide and develop a programme of sport that can meet the sporting needs of the next generation, that meets the needs of the diverse range of students in the UK.
What’s in the framework
The framework defines five potential routes for change:
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Route 1 - Full New Sport Proposal: the comprehensive route for major changes.
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Route 2 - Structure changes: adjustments to leagues, fixtures and competition formats.
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Route 3 - Trial events / Trial categories: time-limited pilots to test new concepts.
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Route 4 - New disciplines: introduction of distinct disciplines within an existing sport (for example, 3×3 basketball or padel).
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Route 5 - BUCS Executive-led initiatives: a streamlined route for time-sensitive, evidence-led pilots.
Key policy points include: pilot/probation seasons will not carry BUCS Points in Year 1 (points may be introduced from Year 2 after a successful review), and each route includes clear governance checkpoints and review timelines.
How this was developed
Version 2.0 reflects an extensive programme of member engagement that has been invaluable to us whilst developing the process. Member feedback shaped refinements to timelines, governance steps and the design of Route 5 so that time-sensitive pilots can be delivered more effectively.
Conclusion
The Making changes to BUCS competitions framework (Version 2.0) represents an important step in delivering on the BUCS Strategy, creating a transparent and inclusive approach to developing competitions that meet the needs of students and members alike. By embedding robust processes for innovation, collaboration and governance, BUCS can continue to deliver exceptional sporting experiences that inspire, develop, and unite.
