Author: Anne-Marie Sitton, Executive Director (Human Resources)
- UEB commended the high quality arrangements for the successful set of recent graduation ceremonies, which included the installation of our joint Chancellors Justine Greening and Lord Patel of Bradford and the celebratory Vice-Chancellor’s Dinner. This reflected very well on the University and UEB thanked all colleagues involved.
- UEB noted that the revocation of the commencement regulations have now been made see: The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023 (Commencement No. 2) (Revocation) Regulations 2024 (legislation.gov.uk). Therefore, the main operative provisions of the Act will not take effect whilst the Government determines next steps. The Council of the University approved a revised Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom to discharge its obligations under the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023. However, with the announcement by the Secretary of State for Education on 26 July 2024 indicating a decision to “…stop further commencement of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023, in order to consider options, including its repeal”, the University’s existing Code of Practice will therefore remain in effect for the time being.
- In light of recent events of unrest in the UK, managers should be mindful of staff and students who may be unsettled and need support during this difficult time.
- UEB discussed the Independent Review of the OfS (Office for Students) which contained several recommendations for the OfS, government and higher education sector to consider.
- An update on the staff survey platform was noted. The platform will underpin the University’s approach to measuring employee engagement and development of a broader approach to employee listening, including enhanced functionality which will now survey leavers and support work on our equality charter submissions.
- UEB noted a report from HR that sets out the fixed term contracts that are due to end in the near future.