Author: Shaun Williams, Executive Director Engagement and Advancement
- There was a further update on the ongoing national industrial action by members of the University and College Union (UCU), relating to pay and working conditions, and changes to the USS pension scheme. As was reported last week, although a new set of proposals on pay, conditions and pensions was put forward, the proposals have not been put to a member vote, industrial action continued last week, and a re-ballot for further industrial action closes this week. There currently continues to be no clear route to a sector-wide resolution to the dispute, and UEB also discussed the potential implications of any continuing action.
- UEB discussed and noted an end of Tranche 1 review of the Education Programme strategic major project, which highlighted what has been achieved, including what worked well, key lessons learnt, and any related adjustments that may be needed for Tranche 2. This was the first time a Tranche review has been tabled, and was considered to be a useful initiative. This first phase of the Education Programme has focused on the Enhancing Academic Support & Delivery Project, and the Reducing Curriculum Complexity Project, both of which were delivered on time and on budget and are essential in paving the way for the next phases of the Programme. UEB noted that in Tranche 2 the currently separate Education and Student Experience Programmes will be brought together to deliver the next set of strategic major projects.
- Finally, there was the regular review of the University Risk Register.