The Vice-Chancellor has announced a Review and Improve Task Group to examine the way we support our students across the institution.

The Organisational Effectiveness (Student Support) Review will look at how we support our students during their time at University. This will include the systems and processes they use throughout the student journey, but will also examine the support colleagues in faculties have to deliver an excellent University experience to all our students.

A separate Timetabling Review will specifically examine the complex timetabling process, and how this can be improved for students and staff.

Over recent years, the institution has significantly changed the way in which we support our students. This has been a difficult, complex process. This review will take stock of the changes made so far, examine the lessons learned, listen to staff and student concerns, and implement practical solutions to the problems raised.

Decisions on these solutions will be made early in the new year. The process will be fully open and transparent, with staff and students receiving regular updates on the process.

Launching the review, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shearer West, said: “My overall impression from this first month is of a University that is productive, proud and committed to success. However, I have also heard problems and concerns.

“I know my UEB colleagues are as keen as I am to work with you to address these concerns.  We are also committed to improving the transparency of our communications and decision-making.

“These reviews are part of that process. I urge colleagues to take part and contribute to the workshops and discussions planned. Your creativity, ideas, and understanding of our students’ needs are vital to the review. With your support we can quickly examine and make changes to processes and ways of working which will improve staff and student experience across the institution.”

Led by Professor Jeremy Gregory, Faculty Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Arts, the reviews will be taken forward by a Review and Improve Task Group. Members of the group are currently being confirmed and work will start in early November. Membership will include senior academic, professional services and Student Services representatives, alongside representatives from the Students’ Union.

Staff and students will be invited to contribute to both the Organisational Effectiveness and Timetabling Reviews.

How do I take part?

Dates are being finalised for a series of open workshops taking place in November and December, where academics, professional services colleagues and students will be able to share their experiences and feedback on current systems and processes.

You will also be able to share your comments online through the review workspace. This will be live once the consultation period launches in mid-November.

The Review Workspace is now available to keep you informed of progress. This will be regularly updated as the project develops, with updates posted on internal University channels.