Coming soon: your updated Spirit of Sussex Award
By: Carrie Smith
Last updated: Monday, 17 August 2026

You spoke and we listened: the Spirit of Sussex Award is getting a glow-up!
Over the last few months, we have been putting the finishing touches on an exciting new version of the award, and it is almost ready for unveiling! We have been working with students and staff to improve how SoSA works for you, which includes a new look and new process.
What do I have to do?
For now, nothing! Sit tight until the new platform goes live in Welcome Week, then check out the new platform and start logging! We will give you more information once the platform goes live.
So, what’s new?
Here are some of the updated elements you can expect when logging into the new award:
- Simplified the award to five categories. This will help you find where to log your extra-curricular activities more easily. Don’t worry – you can still log for most of the same activities!
- Move from a points-based system to badges. You no longer need to find the right question or calculate how many points you need to get a Gold! From Work Experience to Social Wellbeing, you can log a badge for each type of activity you take part in. You are rewarded for the quality of your engagement, not just the quantity.
- Set the criteria. We have set the criteria for each badge, so you just have to complete the requirements to obtain it. Many of these are activities you already take part in!
- Be ratified before your final year. We will ratify your submission during the year, meaning you don’t have to wait until your final year to be awarded.
- Get a PDF certificate. You will be able to download PDF certificates within the system and collect a SoSA pin badge while you are still studying.
If you have any questions, please contact sosa@sussex.ac.uk.