Update on consultation process

Published: 14 April 2011

The University Court is currently undertaking consultations on a number of academic areas, to review our future teaching provision and research

Message from the Principal

As I indicated in recent communications with colleagues, and at a special meeting of Senate in March, I am determined to ensure that the process of consultation is open, transparent, and takes into account all possible information. The University's decisions must be based on sound evidence, in the long-term interests of our institution, and the communities we serve.

Over the consultation period, in addition to ensuring full input from colleagues, we have also worked closely with the SRC, to ensure that the student voice is heard as part of these reviews.

At the meeting of Court on 13 April there was a discussion of the timetable for the consultations. A number of the panels are making good progress, and have (or will soon) be able to share draft reports with the Schools concerned. However, a number of other panels feel that more time is required to complete the process, and to consider all the material which has been submitted to them from colleagues and students.

Accordingly, Court has agreed to a recommendation from Senior Management Group that the timetable for consultation should be prolonged, so that final decisions on the consultations will be taken at the meeting of Court on 22 June. This will allow Senate to discuss the proposals at its ordinary meeting on 2 June, instead of 28 April as originally planned. We will, of course, share interim information on each panel's progress with Senate on 28 April. Senate's view, as well as that of each School and the SRC will be presented to Court on 22 June alongside each panel's report.

This longer timetable also has the benefit of ensuring that Senate's resolution, approved at its March meeting, regarding the timing of decisions on the basis of the consultation is taken account of.

I would like to thank all colleagues who have participated in the consultations for their helpful contributions.

Anton Muscatelli

Principal


First published: 14 April 2011

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