Senate Office

University Values

Integrity
The Senate Office sees the protection of the good names of the University, of Senate and of the Office itself as essential to what it does. We do our best to provide our services honestly, fairly, equitably and consistently.

Credibility
We are relied upon to provide advice that is clear, relevant, practicable, accurate, well-informed and timely. We value highly the faith that our users place in our work.

Openness
Our work concerns protecting academic standards. We recognise that it is essential that we carry this out impartially. We explain what we do and what we ask others to do and try to widen understanding of University policies. We seek to be consultative and inclusive and to ensure our activity is predicated on the recognition and valuing of diversity.

Success
We are ambitious for the University and work to help shape and deliver its aims. We recognise that the primary objective of our services is to enable the University to function effectively and to progress.

University Services Expectations

Responsive – meeting needs effectively
We maintain a strong service ethos in support of the communities we serve, in this seeking to provide support that is needed when it is needed. We seek and welcome feedback on our work.

Efficient – using resources well
In what we do and in what we ask others to do, we endeavour to work quickly, flexibly, collaboratively and creatively to find answers with minimum fuss and the greatest benefit.

Progressive – achieving continuous improvement
The Office has a key role in supporting academic quality and its enhancement and we seek to practise what we preach, with input that is forward-looking and wherever possible consensual. We work to ensure our guidance is well-informed, not least by emerging developments affecting Higher Education. Part of our work also involves ensuring developments affecting the higher education sector (new policies, etc.) are supportive of the University’s aims.

Corporate – aligned with the University’s priorities
We direct our resources where the University needs them, adapting our approach to facilitate and contribute positively to the University’s objectives as they evolve. We work closely with the academic and student communities and with sister services with the aim of fulfilling our users’ requirements as seamlessly as possible and with minimal bureaucracy.

If users are not satisfied with any aspect of the Office’s provision they have the right to have complaints dealt with in a quick, efficient and effective manner. Contact can be made with any member of staff initially if concerns arise. Failing this, users should contact the Director of the Senate Office, Dr Jack Aitken, who will respond within five working days.