UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING UNIVERSITY COURT Developments in the External Environment

Transcription

1 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 27 UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING UNIVERSITY COURT Developments in the External Environment 1. INTRODUCTION This paper provides an overview of recent external developments that will impact upon the higher education sector in general and Stirling in particular. This paper contains information on developments since the last update was given to University Court on 15 December PURPOSE University Court is invited to note recent developments in the external environment. 3. KEY DEVELOPMENTS Teaching and learning 3.1 Postgraduate Taught Review Scotland In November 2014 the previous Cabinet Secretary for Education announced the formation of a working group of key stakeholders, Chaired by Professor Bryan MacGregor of the University of Aberdeen, to consider the barriers to participation by Scottish domiciled students in taught postgraduate (TPG) study. A report by Universities Scotland in 2013 identified that the number of Scottish TPG students studying in Scotland dropped by 18% from to , with a particularly sharp fall in the number of part-time TPG students (22 per cent). The review will take place in the context of government-backed student loans of up to 10,000 available in England from 2016/ Commission on Widening Participation Scotland The First Minister announced in her Programme for Government expectations on increasing the number of Scots from disadvantaged backgrounds accessing higher education. The Scottish Government will establish a Commission on Widening Access to advise on meaningful milestones and targets, and activities that will assist in accelerating progress. The Commission is expected to be established in early 2015 with a summary report provided by summer The Scottish Government also released 2m of funding through the SFC s Impact for Access scheme in 2015/6 to promote local widening access schemes. The University of Stirling submitted three funding proposals related to access funding. 3.3 UCAS Applicants UCAS 2015 cycle applicant figures released on 30 January 2015 show a record number of applications for full-time undergraduate higher education, reaching 592,920, a 2% increase on the previous year (1% for UK domiciled applicants) 1. At the UK level, young people from 1 UCAS data for 2015 entry: 1

2 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 27 the most disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to apply than ever before. Applications from Scottish domiciled applicants increased by 10% to 45,100. However, this increase was primarily due to all teacher training courses in Scotland using UCAS for the first time. Once removed, the increase from the previous years is 1%. The change in teacher training applications did not affect the University of Stirling and overall UCAS application numbers for entry in 2015/16 were up 5.4% compared to last year. Scottish institutions received 110,850 applications in total. Of these 41% were from Scottish students, 32% from RUK applicants, 16% from EU applicants and 12% from non EU applications. Approximately 60% of applications were from females. 3.4 London Campuses QAA published its report on London campuses in December The report concluded that London campuses of UK universities based outside the capital were, on the whole, managed effectively. The report identified actual and potential areas of risk including management of agreements with partner organisations, inadequate publishing information and insufficient checks on entry requirements. It concluded, however, that universities were taking the right steps to address risks. 3.5 Quality Enhancement Framework Scotland The Scottish Funding Council launched a review of the Quality Enhancement Framework in Scotland in November The consultation sought views on how quality assurance and enhancement should be conducted in Scotland, who should own that process, and how quality assurance and enhancement could be measured differently. The response on behalf of the sector, coordinated by Universities Scotland did not consider there to be any requirement for significant overhaul of the Institution-led review process although there would be benefit in increasing the length of the ELIR cycle. 3.6 Quality Assurance England A Universities UK report published on 12 February 2015 Quality, Equity, Sustainability: The Future of Higher Education Regulation sets out a series of recommendations on how the regulation of higher education in England should adapt to meet the interests of students and promote quality 3. Recommendations included a new register for all HE providers, new lead regulator, new approach for protecting the student interest and proposed changes to primary legislation. In addition, on 29 January 2015 a new package of measures was introduced to improve the quality of alternative providers in higher education in England. 3.7 Fee Policy England UUK has publically criticised Labour for considering a 6,000 tuition fee policy in England. The UUK Board wrote in a letter to The Times on 2 February 2015 highlighting that the proposal could result in at least 10bn of additional funding being needed over the course of 2 QAA report on London campuses: 3 UUK report on regulation of HE: 2

3 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 27 the next government to plug the spending gap. Labour has subsequently announced its formal position on tuition fees confirming a commitment to 6,000 fees. A change in fee policy in England would have a knock-on effect on Scotland and may affect the ability to recruit RUK students. 3.8 Review of Public Information in HE A review of public information in higher education is currently being conducted by the four UK funding bodies and overseen by the Higher Education Public Information Steering Group (HEPISG). This includes a review of the NSS, Unistats and Key Information Sets. A review of the NSS took place in 2014 and recommended alterations but not radial changes. UK funding bodies have now commissioned testing of proposed items for inclusion in a new NSS. The outcomes will inform proposals for the new NSS in In autumn 2015 the funding bodies intend to consult formally regarding proposals arising from the wide-ranging review of information provided for students, including the NSS and Unistats. 3.9 Consultation on the HE Governance Bill The Scottish Government issued a consultation on the Higher Education Governance Bill on 7 November The stated intention was to strengthen governance in the HE sector in Scotland and, through legislative changes, support institutions to develop and refine their own governance systems. The University submitted a response following consultation with staff, students and members of University Court. The University s response stressed a commitment to inclusive, open and accountable governance and the importance of institutional autonomy Counter Terrorism and Security Bill The Counter-Terrorism and Security Bill published on 26 November 2014 included within it a statutory duty for certain organisations, including universities, to prevent individuals being drawn into terrorism. For universities this would require policies to be in place to deal with extremist speakers and to follow guidance issued by the Home Secretary. In response to concerns, the Bill was amended to emphasise the duties of universities relating to free speech and academic freedom. The Bill was passed by the House of Lords on 9 February 2015 and will pass into law. Universities UK continue to lobby for changes to the accompanying guidance International Students In March 2015 UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) released revised Tier 4 Sponsor Guidance. All Tier 4 sponsors are being asked to set out site and partnership arrangements to UKVI by May 2015 although institutions are permitted to continue sponsoring students under current arrangements until 30 September The Guidance places a greater emphasis upon quality assurance at integrated sites which will include partnership arrangements such as that with INTO. 3

4 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 27 Research 3.12 Research Excellence Framework 2014 The results of the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) were released in December Stirling enhanced its position as one of the top research-led universities in the UK and moved up to 6th place in Scotland and 45th in the UK. In comparison with 2008 the volume of research classified as world-leading has more than doubled. Overall, 72% of Stirling s activities were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent (3* and 4*) with Stirling s research impact particularly well rated (83%). At a time when at the UK level the number of staff submitted to the REF2014 decreased, Stirling increased the number and proportion of staff submitted. Particular highlights were being ranked 4th in the UK for Agriculture, Veterinary and Food Science; 1st in Scotland (12th in the UK) for Health Sciences; and 3rd in Scotland (18th in the UK) for Psychology Review of REG SFC launched a consultation on the Research Excellence Grant (REG) and Research Postgraduate Grant (RPG) on 8 December This set out SFC s intention that quality and volume will be key drivers of funding with quality measured by the whole REF including the newly introduced impact element. The consultation set out a modified funding formula composed of three main elements; a quality component informed by the REF, competitively funding research (non-charity) and charity funded research. SFC did not propose changes to the RPG allocation model which is based research postgraduate enrolments weighted by subject costs. An announcement of funding allocations was made on 6 March 2015 ( taking into account responses to the consultation. The revised model for distribution of REG has differential effects on the REG funding allocated to HEIs for AY and beyond. The SFC has decided to mitigate the changes in REG and will phase full implementation of the REF results over three years. Stirling will benefit from an increased REG as a result of its REF performance but will only receive the full benefit in AY 2017/18. The University s indicative REG is 5,928k in 2015/16 rising to 7,152k in 2017/18. A breakdown of the funding across the sector is provided in appendix 1. Stirling s indicative RPG allocation is 1,241k UK Government Science and Innovation Strategy The UK Government released its Science and Innovation Strategy to 2021 in December This sets out how Government intends to support the development of science and innovation under five key themes; excellence, agility; collaboration; the importance of place and of openness. UK Government has committed to 5.9 billion in capital funding to support scientific excellence to 2021 including 2.9 billion to fund scientific grand challenges and a capital agility fund to respond to grand challenges as they emerge. Plans are outlined to nurture talent in England, funding to extend the Catapult network and commitments to support innovative businesses though Enterprise Capital Funds and the British Business Bank. HEFCE has been tasked with assessing HEI performance in knowledge exchange 4

5 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 27 activities. To encourage openness and transparency HEFCE will be considering how to reward open data as part of future REF assessments Nurse Review of Research Councils The Nurse Review was announced as part of the government s science and innovation strategy in December The review will look at how research councils can evolve to support research in the most effective ways including the balance of funding between the councils, between investigator-led and strategically-focused funding and potential gaps in the portfolios of the councils. The review will report by summer DATA CLASSIFICATION POLICY This paper is classed as internal. 5. RECOMMENDATION University Court is asked to note recent developments in the external environment. Policy & Planning 24 February

6 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 27 Appendix 1: Indicative Research Excellence Grant for AY 2015/16 to 2017/18 Indicative Research Excellence Grant for: Institution AY excluding Global Excellence Initiative AY AY AY (1) (2) (3) (4) Aberdeen, University of 21,144,000 20,829,000 20,408,000 19,987,000 Abertay Dundee, University of 532, , , ,000 Dundee, University of 20,857,000 20,437,000 19,913,000 19,388,000 Edinburgh Napier University 1,554,000 1,623,000 1,683,000 1,744,000 Edinburgh, University of 84,017,000 81,363,000 78,289,000 75,213,000 Glasgow Caledonian University 1,826,000 2,136,000 2,437,000 2,738,000 Glasgow School of Art 1,870,000 1,641,000 1,402,000 1,164,000 Glasgow, University of 44,793,000 45,276,000 45,535,000 45,793,000 Heriot-Watt University 9,934,000 10,699,000 11,414,000 12,129,000 Highlands and Islands, University of the 1,368,000 1,862,000 2,350,000 2,837,000 Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh 363, , , ,000 Robert Gordon University 1,891,000 1,707,000 1,513,000 1,319,000 Royal Conservatoire of Scotland 153, , , ,000 SRUC 1,181,000 2,363,000 3,544,000 St Andrews, University of 17,732,000 17,656,000 17,490,000 17,325,000 Stirling, University of 5,289,000 5,928,000 6,540,000 7,152,000 Strathclyde, University of 16,426,000 17,095,000 17,681,000 18,267,000 West of Scotland, University of the 910,000 1,091,000 1,268,000 1,444,000 Total 230,659, ,815, ,816, ,811,000 6

7 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 28 UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING Strategic Plan Development Introduction 1. The University s current Strategic Plan was developed in 2010/11 and runs until The process for developing the University s next strategic plan for the period was discussed by USPG in December 2014 and commenced in January 2015 with the theme Innovation and Excellence. 2. The process of developing the next strategic plan is intended to be highly consultative with events designed to engage with staff and students taking place from January to May It is planned that a research and drafting phase will result in a draft strategic plan being presented for consideration by Court at the June 2015 meeting and subsequently circulated for wider consultation in summer Revisions will be made as appropriate resulting in a final version to be considered by University Court in in late It is envisaged that the new strategic plan will be launched in early Appendix 1 sets out the activities and timescale associated with the development of the next strategic plan in greater detail. Purpose 3. The purpose of this paper is to set out the process, timescale and activities associated with the development of the next strategic plan. An update on progress to date and emerging themes from the consultation discussions are presented for consideration by members of Court. Key Activities 4. Since January 2015 the University Principal, Senior Deputy Principal, University Secretary and other members of the Senior Management Team have held twelve consultation events with schools, service areas and the University of Stirling Students Union (USSU). The events included representation from the Students Union sabbatical officers and a further six consultation events are planned in the period to May 2015 to give multiple opportunities for staff and students to engage with the process. 5. In addition to staff consultation meetings, two World Café events have been held. These events are highly interactive and focus on specific topics to generate ideas at a more detailed level. The World Café events were open to all staff and students to attend and were widely advertised. Selected external stakeholders and campus partners were invited to attend the World Café in March including the Scottish Funding Council and Stirling Council. 6. Dedicated webpages ( have been established which explain the process for developing the next strategic plan, detail ways to engage and provide feedback though a blog on progress made. Details of emerging themes are also available on the webpages restricted to staff and students only. 7. Mechanisms have been established for students and staff to provide ongoing feedback. A thought wall where ideas can be posted will be travelling around campus 1

8 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 28 alongside a postbox for confidential comments. An address (strategicplan@stir.ac.uk) has also been established to receive feedback and comments. Emerging Themes 8. The following is a summary of some of the key themes which have emerged from the consultation process in January and February Student Experience Employability the need to embed and integrate employability within the curriculum from the outset. The employability of our graduates was felt to be a key area where Stirling can be distinctive, especially if the offering includes entrepreneurship education and research placements Pedagogical innovations development and promotion of innovative pedagogy such as student-led learning, distinctive research informed-teaching and technological innovations Flexibility in the mode and delivery of teaching and learning to reach new learner groups through single module options, online learning, programme length flexibility, overseas in-country delivery and franchise agreements Supporting the learner journey though the delivery of programmes and innovative solutions to overcome wider barriers to higher education and progression Community enhancements could be made to grow the sense of community and cohesion amongst students particularly for taught postgraduates, international students and those from widening access backgrounds. 10. Research Performance Improving upon REF embedding and further developing Stirling s improved research profile Profile communicating Stirling s research excellence and challenging external perceptions with appropriate staff development Research impact integrating research impact; recognising the positive scores achieved though REF and building on key areas of excellence Interdisciplinarity growing and articulating the benefit of the interdisciplinary nature of research at Stirling as a unique feature Research leadership promoting a culture which grows and supports research leadership Ambition leading large scale bids and establishing research centres which realise research aspirations Infrastructure the appropriate technological and physical infrastructure is needed to support excellence and expansion in key areas. 11. Distinctiveness macrobert Arts Centre, Art Collection and Archives distinctive features of Stirling to be celebrated and integrated into the learning and teaching offering and in promoting research at Stirling 2

9 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 28 Interdisciplinarity the extent of interdisciplinary research at Stirling is distinctive and could be grown Location there are opportunities associated with Stirling s central location Social responsibility Stirling is already known for its environmental sustainability and widening access work. It could develop its distinctiveness in social and corporate responsibility Person centred students and learners receive a person-centred education at Stirling. 12. Growth Size current size could be perceived as both a limitation in generating critical mass and a benefit in promoting interdisciplinary working and person-centred learning Key strengths - bespoke areas of strength could be developed and new strands added which would supplement these Diversification diversification of the student population could take the form of growing articulation routes, international students from a more diverse spread of countries, home/eu and overseas taught postgraduates, online learners, in-country provision, partnership arrangements, integrated Masters and continuing professional development Academic staff a recruitment campaign could be a feature of the University s 50 th anniversary campaign. 13. Culture Public engagement enhanced and coordinated engagement activities which share knowledge and skills, contribute to research impact and develop the University s profile Working environment a positive working environment contributes to productivity and staff retention Inclusive and diverse culture Stirling is already known for its positive, inclusive culture which should be celebrated and embedded. 14. The consultation process is providing opportunity for challenging and innovative ideas to be discussed. Some of those raised have included: Skills exchange discussions took place regarding platforms and spaces to facilitate student to student learning and student to staff learning An international experience for every student whether the University can commit to providing an international experience for every student for example through international language study for all students, increased study abroad opportunities or a more diverse and integrated campus Student commitment whether the University could better articulate its commitment to students (i.e. through a charter) and establish a goal for every member of staff to be able to detail how they contribute to the student experience Relationship development creating a greater local presence and connectivity with the city centre to make Stirling a destination for students and visitors 3

10 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 28 Discipline diversification a variety of perspectives have been given on how growth could be facilitated through offering a broader range of disciplines including those which would fit with the focus on arts at the campus School structure what form would best support the University s function in future and in achieving efficiency and critical mass. Equality implications 15. Equality and diversity will be important to the creation of the next strategic plan. There are no equality implications of this paper. Resource implications 16. There are no direct resource implications associated with this paper. Costs associated with the process of developing of the next strategic plan are low. Data Classification 17. This document is classed as internal. Recommendations 18. University Court is invited to: note the process for the development of the next strategic plan consider the progress and emerging themes to date. Policy and Planning March

11 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 28 Appendix 1 Strategic Plan Development: Proposed Timescale and Activities 1. It is proposed that there are three key phases regarding the development of a new strategic plan; consultation, research & feedback and approval & dissemination. The first phase will start on 12 January A website will be set up on the portal with information about the process, background information and details of how to get involved. All staff and students will be alerted to this through staff and student bulletins and social media. 3. The address strategicplan@stir.ac.uk will be created for the duration of the process and used to capture ideas associated with the strategic plan. PHASE 1: CONSULTATION (January May 2015) 4. The consultation phase is designed to capture ideas and perspectives from everyone who has an interest in the University and to actively engage with students as well as staff. Three different types of consultation activity are proposed in order to capture ideas at a broad and more detailed level and to ensure everyone has an opportunity to get involved either in person or online. A. World café events 5. World café events are intended to be high energy, positive events which are highly interactive and generate ideas. Two world café events are proposed, each focusing on cross cutting themes. The themes are designed to include elements of student experience, research, knowledge exchange and other activities such as commercial activity and community engagement. The events will be held in strategic locations on campus. 6. An open invitation will be issued to all students, staff to attend the World Cafes. Campus partners (INTO, catering, Stirling University Innovation Park partners, sport governing bodies) and stakeholders (employers, Scottish Funding Council, Forth Valley College) will be invited to one of the events. Discussion at the World Café events will be facilitated by members of the senior management team. B. Consultation events 7. The Principal, University Secretary and other members of the senior management team as appropriate will meet in an open format with each School/Division and Service Area. Student Union sabbatical officers will be invited to join these events to provide a student perspective. Some meetings will combine service areas in order to generate closer relationships. The meetings will be held in School/Division/Service Area spaces. The events will present some information to generate ideas and discussions will be held on a number of topics. Earlier roadshows will be more open-ended in nature 5

12 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 28 whereas later roadshows will discuss more specific proposals. Proposed roadshows are: Arts and Humanities (three meetings) Natural Sciences (three meetings) Health Sciences (two meetings) Education Applied Social Sciences Sport Stirling Management School (two meetings) Service Areas and Graduate School four meetings in total to which all service areas can participate Student s Union, including Sabbatical Officers 8. Highlands and Western Isles Campuses - An event specifically for staff at the Highland and Western Isles campuses will be held on 1 April This will be held in conjunction with the University of the Highlands and Islands and will take a holistic view of nursing provision in the highlands. 9. Agent s Conference (19 22 April 2015) - The University annual Agent s Conference takes place in spring Agents are a key group of stakeholders and it is therefore felt to be important to both capture their views and incorporate agents in the process so that they feel an affiliation with the University which they are able to share with potential applicants. 10. University Conference (9 March 2015) - The University Conference will be used to detail themes arising from the process to date and gather further feedback from stakeholders 11. Researchers Forum (22 April 2015) In addition to engaging with the Graduate School it was considered to be important that research students and early career researchers have a specific opportunity to give feedback on the key themes arising from the process of developing the new strategic plan. 12. Staff Assembly (29 April 2015) - The annual staff assembly can be used to give feedback on the process and the key themes arising 13. Professoriate - It was raised at the SMT that as a key group of leaders within the institution, the professoriate should be consulted specifically as a group in order to generate engagement and gather feedback. It is therefore planned to hold a specific forum for the professoriate to discuss emerging key themes in the feedback stage. 6

13 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 28 C. Free engagement 14. It is considered important that all students, staff and visitors to campus have the opportunity to give their view on what should be included in the new strategic plan. It is therefore proposed to have forms of free engagement. 15. Thought wall (sports centre, Atrium and Pathfoot) a wall where anyone can write down their views on the strategic plan will be set up on campus in three of the University s central spaces at various times during the consultation phase. This is a highly visible and transparent way of enabling engagement feedback it is proposed that an address will be established which staff, students and external stakeholders can use at any time to provide feedback on the process. PHASE 2: RESEARCH AND FEEDBACK (Summer 2015) 17. Comments and views collected through the consultation phase will inform the drafting of the next strategic plan and associated research. Work will be undertaken to provide an evidence base upon which to build the next strategic plan. 18. A draft of the strategic plan will be presented for consideration by University Court at the June 2015 meeting. Following feedback received, internal consultation will take place on the revised draft and events will be scheduled as appropriate. 19. It is proposed that in order to keep momentum, interest and engagement with the development of the strategic plan outcomes and themes emerging from the process will be provided on the webpages at regular intervals. This will also help to ensure that those participating in the process understand how their particular view is being used to shape the strategy. 20. It is proposed to establish a strategic plan blog linked with the webpage. This will be used as an informal mechanism to release key themes emerging from the world café s and roadshows. Blogs will be invited from members of the senior management team to share their perspectives on particular emerging themes. PHASE 3: APPROVAL AND DISSEMINATION (Winter 2015/16) 21. Phase three will cover the approval and dissemination of the new strategy. The nature of this will be determined through the review process. However, it is envisaged that the final draft of the strategy will be presented for consideration and approval by University Court in late 2015 and launch would take place in early The launch could take the form of an event inviting all students, staff and external stakeholders to a celebration of the University s set of new goals and aspirations. A parallel online launch would disseminate the strategic plan through social media and on the University webpages. 7

14 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 29 UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING UNIVERSITY COURT Court Sub-Group Introduction 1 The University is currently considering a number of potential capital projects and the options for funding these projects. Some decisions in relation to these projects and funding may need to be taken prior to the next meeting of University Court on 22 June. Proposals 2 The attached Appendix A gives some further information about the capital projects under consideration, the financing of these projects and the debt capacity of the University. 3 In order to make the necessary decisions prior to the next meeting of Court in June, members are asked to approve the re-establishment of the Sub-Group of Court which was previously convened in relation to the residences project. The membership of the Sub-Group will be: Chair of Court Deputy Chair of Court Chair of JPPRC Principal Lay member of Court/Chair of the Residences Programme Board 4 Court is asked to delegate authority to the Sub-Group to agree which major capital projects should be taken forward, agree on the level of additional debt the University is prepared to take on and approve the mechanism for financing the debts. 5 The Sub-Group will report back to Court in June Equality implications 6 There are no equality implications from this report. Resource implications 7 There could be financial implications for the University depending on which projects are taken forward. If the University decides to take on additional debt the University will be entering a long term legally binding financial commitment which will mean the University will have less room to absorb adverse developments in operating performance or funding. Data Classification 8 This cover paper is classed as internal and the appendix is classed as restricted. Recommendations 9 Members are asked to: Policy & Planning March 2014 Approve the re-establishment of a Sub-Group Delegate authority to the Sub-Group to take decisions regarding the capital projects to agree the ways these should be funded. 1

15 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 30 Introduction UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING UNIVERSITY COURT HR UPDATE 1 This paper updates Court on HR matters. Purpose 2 For information. Main body/proposals 3 UNIVERSITIES SUPERANNUATION SCHEME REFORMS Agreement has been reached at the Joint Negotiating Committee of USS, regarding proposed reforms to Scheme benefits. These reforms are deemed necessary to address a substantial Scheme funding deficit, and current proposals include increased employer (+2%) and employee (+1 or 1.5%) contributions, and a hybrid CARE (1/75 accrual)/defined Contribution Scheme with an earnings cap of per annum. Statutory Member consultation will commence mid-march 2015, with a proposed implementation date of April, Industrial Action regarding the proposed reforms has been called off. 4 UCU SUPREME COURT APPEAL COLLECTIVE CONSULTATION The University, in January, defended its previous judgements from EAT and Court of Session regarding the law on collective consultation with respect to the ending of Fixed Term contracts. This case originated following the 2009 Voluntary Severance exercise and UCU continue to pursue the judgement despite the 2013 UK Government amendment to employment law, which now excludes Fixed Term workers from collective consultation obligations. The outcome may not be announced until late Spring or Summer Equality implications 5. No Equality implications. Resource implications 6. Additional costs should the pensions proposals be agreed with higher contribution levels. Data Classification 7. This Document is classified as internal. Recommendations 8. Court is invited to note this update. Martin McCrindle Director of HR & Organisation Development March

16 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 31 UNIVERSITY COURT Report from Academic Council (Chair: Professor G McCormac) The following matters are reported from the meeting of Academic Council on 11 March Item for approval (a) Ordinances Council endorsed amendments to Ordinance 18, matriculation, registration and payment of fees and charges by students; and Ordinance 58, the list of degrees of the University. (Amendments to Ordinances is a separate item on the Court agenda.) Items for noting (a) Enhancement-led Institutional Review (ELIR) Council received a report providing a summary of preparations for the forthcoming ELIR scheduled for September and November Council noted that an intense period of activity is underway including the drafting of the Reflective Analysis (RA) and preparation of the Advance Information Set. The Advance Information Set was a new feature of ELIR 3 which aims to provide the review panel with information on standards and quality to enable panel members to focus more fully on enhancement during the review visits. The RA had been circulated to schools for feedback and students would be involved in the writing of the document through a plan of engagement. The RA would be forwarded to an external critical friend at the end of March and to the University s Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Officer in April for further feedback. Academic Council and the University Court would receive the RA for approval in June 2015 prior to final approval from University Court, and submission of all documentation to the QAA in July (b) Strategy for Sport Council received the draft Strategy for Sport that had been prepared by a task group chaired by a lay member of Court. The proposed strategy covered the period and defined the full range and scope of the University s Data Classification: Internal

17 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 31 sporting aspirations in relation to performance, education, research and participation. Council noted that the strategy had been considered by the Joint Policy, Planning and Resources Committee (JPPRC) which had made recommendations for the task group to consider, including the development of a cover paper to contextualise the ambitions within the strategy and also to provide an indication of action plan content and KPIs. In discussion the following points were also noted: Whilst there was no direct reference to inclusivity within the strategy s vision, the entire strategy was intended to be inclusive in nature. Further contextualisation within the cover paper would highlight the strategy s inclusivity. Emphasis on research would be developed through the action plan. Participation targets were ambitious and intended to be aspirational in terms of effort being required to achieve them. The strategy could place additional emphasis on health and well-being. The strategy would be revised in light of comments received at JPPRC and Council before being submitted to Court for approval in due course. (c) Research Council noted that more than 7.5m of new research awards had been notified in the first half the year. Of particular note were: 320,000 from The Nuffield Foundation for an extension to a pilot survey looking at ageing. Over 200,000 from The European Commission for a study to identify modern approaches for developing bedside rapid diagnostics in the treatment of Ebola. More than 300,000 from The European Commission for research that focuses on parasite control in fish. More than 1,000,000 from EPSRC to develop mathematical modelling and algorithms for enhancing capacity management at airports. 1,780,000 ( 1,370,000) from the European Research Council to carry out research into cognitive mechanisms. Council also noted that the Scottish Funding Council had circulated details of the indicative funding decisions for the Research Excellence Grant (REG). Stirling would receive an uplift in funding of 35% ( 5,289K to 7,152K) however this would be phased in over a number of years and the full benefits of the increase would not be realised until 2017/18. (d) Academic Dress Council approved a change to the University s academic dress. The University s shield would be woven into the lining of the hood and the copyright of the shield design would belong to the University. Donna Waddington Data Classification: Internal

18 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 UNIVERSITY COURT Report from the meeting of the Joint, Policy, Planning and Resources Committee held on 3 March Items for Approval 1. STUDENT PAYMENT POLICY Members considered a draft policy on student payments that would replace the existing Student Debt Management Policy. The new policy would introduce more flexible payment options and was more explicit about the support and advice offered to students who fell behind in their payments. It was noted that the University would monitor the currency fluctuation risk associated with the introduction of new payment methods. Members noted the need for clarity around the application of any sanctions to students who fell behind in their payments, for example access to SUCCEED. Subject to minor amendments that were to be discussed with representative from USSU, members endorsed the policy for approval by University Court at its meeting on 23 March The Payment Policy is a separate agenda item in its own right. Items for Noting 2. STRATEGY FOR SPORT JPPRC received an updated Strategy for Sport that was prepared by a task-group chaired by Kevin Condron. The proposed Strategy covered the period and defined the full range and scope of the University s sporting aspirations in relation to performance, education, research and participation. Members considered the draft strategy and commented on the need for a clearer articulation of how the strategy would be implemented. The following updates were also requested: The strategy needed to indicate how KPIs would be monitored to capture progress towards the University s overall ambitions; The task-group was asked to reflect on specific measures to enhance gender equality and to enhance disability sport; The Strategy needed a clearer articulation of student support and the role of the Sports Union. Members agreed that a revised version of the Strategy, including additional contextual information and indicative action plan, should be presented to University Court in due course. Data Classification: Internal 1

19 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) REF RESULTS AND INDICATIVE FUNDING FOR 2015/16 (i) REF RESULTS 2014 Members received a presentation from the Director of Research and Enterprise on the outcomes of the Research Excellence Framework (REF). It was noted that the assessment criteria had changed substantially since the previous Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) in 2008, particularly with the inclusion of research impact. The changing environment for research funding had resulted in many institutions being more selective in their submissions. Stirling had a very successful REF and had increased the volume of staff submitted while improving the overall Grade Point Average (GPA) on a like-for-like basis from 2.41 in 2008 to 2.92 in Notable successes included Scotland s top ranking submission in health sciences and fourth in the UK for agriculture, veterinary and food science (aquaculture). Overall, the University was ranked 40 th in the UK and 5 th in Scotland when measured on research intensity, which was up from 56 th in the UK and 8 th in Scotland when based on the un-weighted GPA in Stirling had therefore overtaken three Scottish institutions; Aberdeen, Dundee and Heriot Watt. Members commented that the overall result for the University was excellent and provided a strong platform for further growth. It was noted that a new Research Strategy was being developed and would identify a direction of travel for the period up to the next REF, which was expected in 2020/21. Members noted that the SFC would announce the University s allocation of REG funding in early March. (ii) INDICATIVE FUNDING 2015/16 Members received a paper that provided a summary of the SFC s indicative funding decisions for 2015/16. This included the University s allocation of the main teaching grant, however it excluded REG and capital funding decisions. Teaching prices were maintained in cash terms at 2014/15 levels meaning there was no inflationary uplift for 2015/16. It was noted that since the paper was circulated, the University had received confirmation that nursing intake targets would be increased slightly for entry in 2015/16. Members commented that the University had been successful in securing additional funded places for widening access, but had not been allocated additional STEM places. A decision by SFC to reduce the tolerance threshold on new teaching price groups could result in a reduction of funding of approximately 600k that would apply in 2017/18. The University was working to mitigate the potential impact of the change, including joint working with the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) to secure additional STEM places for the Stirling campus. A copy of the Indicative Funding 2015/16 report is included as Annex MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTS: SECOND QUARTER 2014/15 Members received a report that presented the management accounts for the half year to 31 January The paper included a forecast outturn to 31 July 2015 based on actual income and expenditure to 31 January 2015 and on additional information on projected income and expenditure. The report noted that the forecast outturn for 2014/15 was a net surplus of 818k against a re-based budgeted surplus of 496k. Data Classification: Internal 2

20 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 Members commented on the positive and adverse variances against the re-based budget, including higher than forecast staff recharges to research activity and lower than anticipated payroll expenditure due to net gap savings. The figures included a positive variance against tuition fee income due to the release of a provision held against SAAS (the Student Awards Agency for Scotland) funds and lower than anticipated expenditure against research incentivisation funds. The largest adverse variance was against the INTO Joint Venture (JV), however there was also an adverse variance due to lower than budgeted research overhead generation. Members noted that the position of the INTO JV would be considered elsewhere on the agenda and that the University would remain strongly covenant compliant for the financial year 2014/15. The half-year management accounts for 2014/15 were noted. This paper is included as Annex STUDENT RESIDENCES (i) RESIDENCES REDEVELOPMENT EXCEPTION REPORT Members received an exception report relating to the Residences Redevelopment Project, including the most recent dashboard report from the Project Manager and an overall financial summary. It was noted that the contractor was reporting a delay of eight days against the contract programme for Juniper Court, however it was expected that time could be recovered to achieve practical completion on schedule (13 August 2015). Members noted that the Residences Programme Board was due to meet during March and would receive reports on funding drawdown and cash flow, project progress, budget and risk. This paper is included as Annex 3. (ii) RESIDENTIAL RENTS AND ALLOCATIONS 2015/16 Members considered a report that proposed a set of residential rents and allocations for University managed student accommodation for the academic year 2015/16. Confirmed rents were required to allow the online application process for accommodation for returning undergraduate students to open in mid-march It was noted that proposed rents were based on the work of a rent review group chaired by the Deputy Chair of Court and with representation from USSU. The proposals took into account inflation, the need to maximise occupancy rates and the residential rents charged at comparator institutions and the local private sector. Members commended the work of the residential rents group and noted that rents for Polwarth House would be reduced in 2015/16 to provide a more affordable entry point for student accommodation. The proposed allocations would enhance the oncampus options for taught postgraduates while preventing unintended segregation of other student groups. Members approved the proposed rents for 2015/16. This paper is included as Annex INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE 2014/15 Members received a report that presented an update on infrastructure investment in financial year 2014/15. The paper provided an overall summary of all projects that Data Classification: Internal 3

21 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 were taken forward as part of the Plan for Academic Success (PAS) and additional projects that were endorsed at the meeting of JPPRC in November It was noted that the University was in the process of creating a holistic infrastructure plan that would include items previously included within the capital plan and the costs of maintaining, repairing and replacing items of infrastructure and equipment. The holistic infrastructure plan would cover the period from 2015/16 and would be presented to JPPRC in due course. Members commented that a number of projects commencing in 2014/15 would require expenditure to be incurred in 2015/16, including an upgrade to the USSU entrance and internal facilities. The University would normally expect to spend approximately 4.5 million per year on infrastructure, however the projects taken forward in 2014/15 would require access to free reserves of an additional 2.4 million. This was due to large one-off expenditure on projects such as the installation of Wi-Fi and the proposed demolition costs for Geddes Court, which would lose its HMO licence at the end of 2014/15 and design fees for a potential replacement residential block. It was noted that the University had approximately 9 million of free reserves to support long-term investment. The projects taken forward in 2014/15 were closely aligned with strategic priorities and would substantially enhance the student experience. Members endorsed the infrastructure plan and approved the required additional spend of 2.4 million from free reserves. This paper is included as Annex JOINT VENTURE WITH INTO: PROGRESS REPORT An update report on implementation of the INTO JV was presented, including a summary of the JV s financial performance for 2014/15. The report noted that as part of the original Business Plan, the University anticipated that the JV would make a loss in 2014/15 of 1,626k of which the University would be liable for a 50% share ( 813k), however recent information from INTO University Partnerships (IUP) indicated that the level of loss for the JV for 2014/15 would be c million, resulting in a forecast loss for the University of million. The main reasons given for the higher than expected loss were lower than budgeted student recruitment in both Stirling and London. It was reported that the University had informed IUP that it was not prepared to accept a 50% share of a loss of 2.97 million and that IUP had been asked to significantly reduce the level of recharges to be made against the JV. In addition to increased forecast JV loss, it was noted that there would also be an additional adverse impact for the University in relation to the forecast return on recharges ( 223k) and compensation for pre-sessional business ( 200k). A total forecast loss of 919k had therefore been incorporated into the second quarter management accounts. This represented a c 610k adverse financial variance to the University s rebased budget figure. Significant concern was expressed at this situation but it was recognised that actual performance in a business start-up situation would often deviate from original forecast. The meeting was informed that considerable contact and focus was being directed at the JV and the information available from IUP. It was also agreed that the frequency and level of financial and operating information need to be significantly improved. Data Classification: Internal 4

22 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 A number of actions were agreed to be follows up with urgency: Steps need to be taken to improve the flow of management information from IUP. A detailed review of all recharges made to the JV by IUP to be undertaken The JV s business plan needed to be rebased to reflect the higher costs and lower recruitment of students. JPPRC should receive a regular summary report at each meeting to monitor progress against the revised plan. This paper is included as Annex 6. Policy and Planning March 2015 Data Classification: Internal 5

23 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 Annex 1 UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING JOINT POLICY PLANNING AND RESOURCES COMMITTEE Indicative Funding 2015/16 1. INTRODUCTION This paper provides a summary of Scottish Funding Council (SFC) indicative funding decisions for 2015/16 which were released on 27 January The figures are indicative and will be finalised when the budget bill has been agreed by the Scottish Parliament and Outcome Agreements are finalised. This is expected to be in April PURPOSE JPPRC is invited to note the SFC s indicative funding decisions for 2015/ SUMMARY OF INDICATIVE FUNDING The total revenue funding allocated by SFC in 2014/15 will be 1,041 million. The change in sector-wide funding between 2014/15 ( 1,066.4m) and 2015/16 ( 1,041m) is a decrease of 2.4%. Overall, sector-wide funding has increased from the 2010/11 baseline by 4.6%. The grant streams announced in the indicative letter include the main teaching grant (including additional places), the total research grant (for the sector) and the total allocated to strategic funding. Funding for pre-registration nursing and capital funding will be announced in April 2015, and the institutional allocations of Research Excellence Grant (REG) funding are expected by March 2015 (following the outcome of REF). Table 1: Total revenue funding University Financial programme funding Year ( m) Year-on-year change % increase against baseline 2010/ / % -3.4% 2012/13 1, % 2.9% 2013/14 1, % 8.7% 2014/15 1, % 7.4% 2015/16 1, % 4.6% The sector-wide funding of 1041 million is broken-down as shown below: 1 Full details can be found on this link 1

24 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 Annex 1 Table 2: High-level breakdown of total allocations AY 2015/16 AY 2014/15 AY 2013/14 AY 2012/13 AY 2011/12 AY 2010/11 Teaching (1) 662m 646m 629m 613m 607m 619m Research and KE (2) 282m 296m 278m 258m 243m 244m Strategic funding 76m 115m 149m 125m 110m 120m Capital from revenue 19m 26m Transfer to SAAS and fee compensation for additional places 20m 8.7m 5m Total (3) 1,041m 1,066m 1,079m 1,022m 959m 993m (1) excludes other ring-fenced funding including nursing & midwifery pre-registration (2) includes knowledge exchange funding previously allocated under strategic funding in 2013/14 (3) excludes ring-fenced capital funding Teaching and Learning The Ministerial letter of guidance in November 2014 asked the Council to maintain the unit of resource for teaching in cash terms, meaning that there will be no inflationary uplift in teaching price groups. It is assumed that the tuition fee element will remain at 1,820 and will be paid by SAAS. Overview / Additional Places The indicative teaching grant for Stirling is 24,198k, an increase of 1,072k from 2014/15). The increase is due to additional cohorts of funded places for widening access, articulation and the Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC). A final cohort of RUK funded places will be removed in 2015/16 (a reduction of 726k). Additional places for widening access will be embedded in core teaching funding. Across the sector, an additional 680 places will be allocated in 2015/16, and Stirling will receive 148 new places (22% of the total allocated) in addition to the cohorts already allocated in 2013/14 and 2014/15. A total of 1,118 additional places have been made available for articulation in 2015/16, and places will be embedded into core funding. This will be the third cohort of additional articulation places, and Stirling will receive 103 new places (9% of the total allocated), the same as in 2014/15; Additional UG places for skills (for growth in STEM subjects) will be embedded and SFC will allocate a further 349 undergraduate places in 2015/16. As in previous years, Stirling has not received an allocation of these places. A total of 852 TPG funded places will be allocated in 2015/16, which is the same number as the previous year. Stirling will again be allocated 42 places (5% of the total). A further 110 TPG places will be allocated to Innovation Centres in 2015/16, which includes 25 TPG places for the Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC). It will be the responsibility of the Innovation Centre boards to allocate additional places, and Stirling expected to receive places to support MSc places in Aquaculture and Computing Science. 2

25 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 Annex 1 SFC continues to fund additional places (1,027) introduced in 2012/13 for STEM, UHI, Crichton, Community Education, British Sign Language and Regional Coherence. A review of regional coherence funding will take place in 2015/16 with the intention of implementing any changes in 2016/17 Rest of UK (RUK) Places The SFC will remove a total of 3,835 RUK places in 2015/16 and has indicated the intention to remove a final cohort of 309 places in 2016/17, which will be the last year of phasing out these places. The total number of places withdrawn from Stirling will be the same as last year (171 FTE) with a total value of 726k. Controlled Subjects The SFC wrote to institutions on 24 February 2015 to increase intakes on PGDE Primary and Secondary courses. The University of Stirling will not be affected by the increase and will continue to have a target intake of 44 places on ITE Primary and 115 on ITE Secondary courses at undergraduate level. Information from the Scottish Government suggests that the target intake for nursing will be increased by 3% for 2015/16, however the University awaits confirmation of the increase and will plan on the assumptions highlighted to JPPRC in November regarding the intake target for 2015/16. Consolidation Limits and Price Group Validation The University has an indicative number of 4,670 places for full-time Scots/EU students (compared to 4,419 in 2014/15), and will be penalised if it exceeds this number by more than 10%. This number excludes all RUK students and the increase in 2015/16 is a result of additional funded places for widening access and articulation. Three institutions (Queen Margaret University, Heriot-Watt University, and Robert Gordon University) have opted to participate in a pilot scheme to increase consolidation limits. These institutions will be able to recruit a small number of places beyond the tolerance level of 10% in 2015/16, but will only receive the tuition fee ( 1,820) for each student, and no additional grant funding. In 2012/13, the SFC introduced new teaching funding price group and a validation process to avoid large swings in funding for a transition period. It is intended that the model will be adjusted started in 2015/16 in a three-stage process (starting from +/- 5%). The SFC has indicated its intention to move to prices (i.e. +/- 0%) in 2017/18, which would have an adverse impact on Stirling of up to 600k per year. Discussion is ongoing with SFC around how the transition mechanism can be improved. Claw-back The University received claw-back due to under-enrolment of 35.4 FTE preregistration nurses in 2013/14. This was due to smaller cohorts in previous years, 3

26 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 32 Annex 1 higher than expected levels of attrition and the balance of student recruitment across adult and mental health across the three campuses. It is not expected that claw-back will apply in 2014/15. The University also received claw-back of 1FTE in relation to primary education numbers in 2014/15. This was due to a higher than expected level of attrition and intake targets have been increased for 2015/16 to mitigate the impact of claw-back in future years. Research and Knowledge Exchange SFC intend to increase the budget for the Research Excellence Grant (REG) and the Research Postgraduate Grant (RPG) by 0.5% in 2015/16. Consultations are ongoing with the sector on how to apply the results of the REF to funding through the REG and RPG. Details are expected imminently and will be reported at the meeting of JPPRC if known by 3 March. Strategic Funding SFC s priority is to use strategic funds to meet existing commitments and where additional support can be leveraged. The indicative letter of funding notes that capacity for additional projects will be limited in 2015/16. Capital Funding SFC intends to allocate 21 million of capital funding to universities, and institutional allocations will be announced in the main grant letter in April Of the 21 million, 5 million will be ring-fenced for specific research and development investment. SFC has commenced work with the sector to develop a ten-year investment strategy for infrastructure. 4. DATA CLASSIFICATION POLICY This paper is classed as internal. 5. RECOMMENDATION JPPRC is invited to note the SFC s indicative funding decisions for 2015/16. Policy & Planning 24 February

27 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 33 UNIVERSITY COURT Report from the meeting of Audit Committee 16 February 2015 Items for Noting 1. REGISTER OF STRATEGIC RISK The Committee considered the Register of Strategic Risks and noted the updates that had been made since the previous meeting. The Committee commented as follows: There was a reduced risk of industrial action relating to the proposed reforms to the USS pension scheme. However, the affordability of the current proposals was still a risk that needed to be highlighted and included on the register. Indications were that the latest Home Office guidance regarding UKVI compliance would not have a significant impact on the University s partnership in London. However, more generally UKVI compliance was still a high risk area. Although there had been a positive outcome in terms of the REF results the financial implications of this were not yet known. It was noted that redevelopment of the residences was categorised as high risk due to the high financial value of the work, despite the overall project including the current phase, being on time and on budget. It was agreed that the addition of colour coding in the Previous residual risk score column would be beneficial to show when mitigating action had been taken but there was still a high risk. The updated Register of Strategic Risks is attached as Annex INTERNAL AUDIT PROGRESS REPORT The Committee considered the progress report from the Internal Auditors. It was noted that the audit on Taught Postgraduate Overseas Recruitment had been completed and the fieldwork for the Financial Controls Review had finished and a draft report had been issued. A number of other audits would be underway shortly and draft terms of reference were being agreed. It was noted that the fieldwork for the IT Disaster Recovery Review would take place in May. It was agreed that completed audit reports would be circulated to Committee members as soon as they were completed. Meetings had been held with the action owners from outstanding actions since 2010/11. Following the review there were 26 outstanding actions, including one high risk action, which still required progress or resolution. Details of all these actions were included in the report. It was noted that some comments in the report had been incorrectly attributed to the Director of Finance and this would be corrected. It was agreed that action owners would be asked by management to review outstanding actions as a priority. Data Classification: Internal

28 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 33 There would be a further review of follow up actions in June and the expectation was that the majority of outstanding actions would be implemented by then. If there were any outstanding actions it was agreed to review the original evidence base to determine whether the actions were still appropriate or required further review. In particular it was agreed that the outstanding actions relating to procurement would be reviewed in the context of the original recommendations. (i) Taught Postgraduate Overseas Recruitment The Committee noted the final internal audit report on Taught Postgraduate Overseas Recruitment. The report identified two high risk, three medium risk and one low risk recommendation. The high risk recommendations related to clearly defining the roles and responsibilities in relation to TPG recruitment and the lack of accountability in Schools for achieving recruitment targets. The Committee endorsed the management response and the action that was being taken to implement the recommendations. The Committee agreed that the high risk category should be reserved for recommendations that had both the potential for high impact (e.g. financial or reputational damage) but also had a high likelihood of damage being caused. It was important that the outcomes from reports added value to the work of the institution. 3. EXTERNAL AUDIT PLAN The Committee considered the audit strategy overview and plan for the year ending 31 July 2015 presented by the External Auditors. The approach for the year would be risk-based and focus on the areas most likely to lead to material misstatement in the University s financial statements. Areas of focus for the year would include fraud risk from management override of controls; REF and research accounting; residences capital expenditure and obligations, and net pension liability valuation, funding and disclosure. Thereafter the Committee noted the report. 4. FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARD 102 The Committee noted the update on actions the University was undertaking to ensure compliance with FRS 102: The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The University would need to comply with the requirements of FRS 102 by the year ending 31 July However, ahead of the 2015/16 financial statements those for 2014/15, which would provide the prior year s comparators, would have to be stated in the new format. The Committee noted that a number of actions had already been completed and further work would take place over the coming months to ensure compliance. Further updates would be provided as work progressed. Thereafter the Committee noted the report. 5. FREEDOM OF INFORMATION COMPLIANCE REPORT 2014 The Committee considered the Freedom of Information compliance report for 2014 which also covered Data Protection and Environmental Information Regulations. The increasing number of requests was noted. Policy & Planning March 2015 Data Classification: Internal

29 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Introduction UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING UNIVERSITY COURT STUDENT PAYMENT POLICY 1. The University collects debt due from students in accordance with its Student Debt Management Policy. The existing policy covers the methods of payment available to students and the debt collection procedures to be applied in circumstances in which a student fails to pay or is late with payment. This policy has been in operation since September The Higher Education landscape has changed considerably since the current policy was implemented and it is in need of review and update so that it is fit for purpose in a significantly changed operating environment. The overriding objective of the policy is to help enable the University to meet one of its key strategic objectives concerning student recruitment. The new policy is designed to allow the University to compete effectively with other institutions in attracting students by providing flexible, viable payment options without compromising the overall financial health of the University through creating an adverse student debt situation. Purpose 3. The purpose of this paper is to seek Courts approval of a new Student Payment Policy (attached as appendix A) to replace the existing Student Debt Management. Background Payment of Tuition Fees 4. In strict terms, tuition fees are payable by students for the full academic period on enrolment. However under normal circumstances students will be given the opportunity to pay in instalments. Appendix B sets out the University s current instalment policy against the rest of the Scottish Higher Education Sector and demonstrates that by requesting that 65% of the tuition fee is paid on enrolment the University of Stirling is an outlier. Like all other institutions, the University needs to offer payment by instalment plans as paying the full fee up front would create a barrier for many students wanting to enter higher education. In addition, the payment by instalment facility needs to be sufficiently attractive so as not to present a barrier to prospective students. It is therefore proposed that the University revise the instalment plan offering to self-funded students so that it positions itself more competitively in the student market place. In determining the optimum approach to payment by instalment a simple underlying principle of matching the instalment period to the period of study is proposed. In practice, therefore:

30 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Undergraduates will be offered eight monthly instalments from September to April Postgraduates will be offered twelve monthly instalments from the month of enrolment. Cash Flow 5. Such a change in in the instalment plan will have a significant impact on the cash flow of the University. The chart below demonstrates the impact of a move from the current substantial up-front payment of 65% to a monthly plan over the period of study. 12,000,000 Cash Flow 10,000,000 8,000,000 6,000,000 4,000,000 2,000,000 Current instalment plan Proposed instalment plan 0 Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul 6. The financial impact of this can be expressed in terms of the reduction in interest received on cash deposits of c. 22k. However, where students are willing to pay tuition fees in advance of the proposed monthly profile they will be encouraged to do so by offering alternative payment options and incentives. Therefore along with a monthly payment option it is proposed to offer students an option to pay on an upfront semester basis as well. Semester based payment plan 50% September and 50% in January. 7. It is becoming common place for Universities to offer early or prompt payment discounts to incentivise students to pay the full tuition fee prior to or at enrolment. Appendix C shows the current offering in the Scottish sector, 5 institutions offer such a discount ranging from 3 % to 10%. If a student does have cash available then a prompt payment discount at these rates offers an attractive return in the context of today s low interest rate environment. 8. The financial cost of offering such a discount is demonstrated in the chart below. However it is not possible to predict the take up of students accepting such an offer and the extent to which it would induce students to accept a place at the University.

31 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) , ,000 Prompt Payment Discount 500, , , , , % 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Percentage Take Up 1% discount 2% discount 3% discount 4% discount 5% discount 10% discount 9. In order to maintain a competitive position it is proposed that the University offer a prompt payment discount of 3% to self-funding students who pay their tuition fees in full prior to or at enrolment. For illustrative purposes a take up rate of 15% of selffunding students would equate to a discount of c. 43k. Debt Collection Procedures 10. In moving to a monthly payment offering the University needs to ensure there isn t a concaving of the proposed cash flow curve whereby tuition fees are paid by students on a pay to progress basis. As such, in year debt collection procedures will need to be enhanced with the application of in year sanctions for non-payment of debt. 11. However it is important to note that in practice the focus of debt control procedures will be to enter in to a dialogue as soon as possible with students experiencing financial difficulty to lead to a mutually satisfactory resolution of the debt situation. If a student fails to enter into such a dialogue or fails to honour agreements to pay, academic sanctions may be applied. It is also recognised that if a student has significant overdue debt with the University and little prospect of being able to pay, then it is not in the student s best interest to permit them to continue to study and amass more debt. 12. Following JPPRC, discussions have taken place with the Head of Student Support Services, the Union President and Vice President for Communities and a set of enhanced in-year debt collection procedures have been agreed that will consist of:

32 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 a series of reminders (and any other communication mechanism available) to prompt the student to pay or enter into dialogue with the University s student support services in the first instance if they are experiencing financial difficulties. In the event of no dialogue or failure to adhere to an agreed plan the University may apply sanctions that prevent access to selected academic services and facilities. a continued failure to pay may ultimately lead to a student withdrawing from the University for non-payment of fees in accordance with Ordinance 18. the University will continue to take measures to recover debt, including the use of external debt-collection agency It should be borne in mind that the application of academic sanctions will be done proportionately and will not be applied for relatively small amounts of debt. 13. For late payments Ordinance 18 clause 4 allows the Director of Finance to impose a late payment charge by way of interest on unpaid debts at a rate of 2% above the Base Lending Rate of the Bank of Scotland. Normally, this will not be applied as a blanket sanction on late debt adds as it to the financial burden of a student who may already be experiencing financial difficulty. However the University reserves the right to apply on a case by case basis. Office of Fair Trading report on Universities Terms and Conditions 14. In revising the debt collection procedures due account has been taken of the February 2014 Office of Fair Trading 1 (OFT) report on Universities Terms and Conditions. The report concluded that the use of and reliance upon contract terms that allow the university to withhold graduation or progression or otherwise to exclude students from tuition for non-payment of ancillary services, in a blanket fashion and regardless of the circumstances, is open to challenge as potentially unfair under the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1999 ('UTCCRs') and/or may be unreasonable under the Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977 ('UCTA'). We also consider that practices around the use of such terms may constitute unfair commercial practices under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 ('CPRs') 15. The University will therefore not apply academic sanctions for the non-payment of nontuition fee debt (i.e. accommodation and other ancillary charges). An alternative set of debt collection procedures is laid out in appendix B of the policy. 16. To this extent Ordinance 18 will be amended to reflect this practice and debt shall refer solely to debt arising from fees and charges relating to a specific course of study. 1 The Office of Fair Trading was responsible for protecting consumer interests throughout the UK. It closed on 01 April 2014, with its responsibilities passing to a number of different organisations including the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and the Financial Conduct Authority

33 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Payment methods 17. The Finance Office is in the process of introducing new ways for students to pay in support of the policy and in addition to the existing payment mechanisms will shortly have in place the following: Recurring Card Payments facility whereby the student (or parent or other sponsor) can set up a continuous payment authority to allow the university to take regular payments from a debit or credit card. International Wire Transfer facility - the University has partnered with Western Union to allow students the opportunity to securely send international wire transfers for payment of tuition fees in their local currency. 18. Payment methods on offer to students will continually be reviewed to ensure that cost effective and efficient mechanisms are made available to students to settle their debts to the University. Equality Implications 19. There are no equality implications arising directly from this paper Resource Implications 20. There are no resource implications arising directly from this paper Data Classification 21. This paper is classified as public Recommendations 22. Court is invited to approve the Student Payment Policy. Finance Office March 2015

34 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix A University of Stirling Student Payment Policy 1. Introduction This document sets out the University s policy in relation to the collection of student fees and charges payable to the University by current and former students for the use of its facilities and the provision of its services. 2. Purpose The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the University collects the amounts that are due to it. The policy also aims to fulfil the following objectives: explaining in an open, transparent and accessible way how the University will treat students who have outstanding debt owed to the University. demonstrating what actions students can take to mitigate any steps likely to be taken by the University to recover outstanding debt. applying a student debt policy that is firm but fair"; that encourages all students to pay in good time, but has the flexibility to recognise and respond appropriately when this is not possible because of a genuine difficulty. 3. Support to Students In applying this policy, the University will at all times seek to be sympathetic to individual students financial circumstances. However for the University to do so, students must engage in dialogue with the University if they are experiencing financial difficulties. Students experiencing difficulties in paying any fees and charges should seek financial advice at the earliest opportunity by contacting a Student Advisor in Student Support Services, either: by studentmoney@stir.ac.uk by telephone on or visiting the Student Money Advice Team during opening hours Communication with students Formal documents such as invoices, credit notes, statements and reminders will be sent electronically to the University student address which is the official method of communication to students. Students must access and use this account regularly. As the main object is to make contact with the student the University may also contact students: using any phone number provided by the student using any alternative address provided by the student Data Classification: Public

35 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix A by letter to the home and /or term address provided by the student 5. Methods of Payment The University offers a wide range of payment methods to allow students to pay fees and charges quickly and securely. Full details and access to the various methods is available at: 6. Student Tuition Fees Students become liable for the payment of the full tuition fee on enrolment to a programme of study. The tuition fee liability can be discharged via the following options: Option 1: Nominating a sponsor to pay tuition fees Many students will have tuition fees paid by a sponsor or funded by government financial support (family members or friends do not count as sponsors). Sponsored students are required to provide evidence of sponsorship prior to enrolment so that an invoice can be issued to the named person or organisation. However this is not required for UK or EU students with a confirmed award from SAAS or a tuition fee loan from SLC which covers the full tuition fee liability. The University will communicate with these organisations and payment will be received directly from them on behalf of the student. Where a sponsor is only part paying the fees, the student will be required to pay the remainder. Where a student has confirmed that they will be funded by a sponsor then the University will request payment from the sponsor. If the sponsor withdraws financial support or fails to pay all or any part of the fees the student remains liable and will have to pay any amount outstanding to the University. The University reserves the right to decide which organsiations or companies it will accept as approved or official financial sponsors. If a sponsor is not paying the tuition fee the student is classified as self-funding for payment purposes. The University recognises that self-funding students need flexibility when paying fees and as such a range of payment options is made available to these students. Data Classification: Public

36 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix A Where a student has paid a tuition fee deposit prior to enrolment any such deposit will be offset against tuition fees for the academic year and the balance of the fee will become due on enrolment. Option 2: Payment in Full Fees can be paid in full in advance or at enrolment, students who do so will qualify for a prompt payment discount of 3%. This discount does not apply to: students who are being charged per module for their programme of study or to any third party sponsor where students have notified the University their fees are being paid by the sponsor. or when fees are being paid by the Scottish Awards Agency or Student Finance England/Northern Ireland/Wales Option 3: Flexible Payment Plans The University does provide the opportunity for self-funding students to pay tuition fees by interest free payment plans provided the amount due is greater than or equal to 250. Semester Plan this plan collects two semester instalments in September and January Monthly Plan this plan allows the tuition fee to be paid over equal monthly instalments: Undergraduate paid over eight equal monthly instalments between September and April Postgraduate paid over twelve equal monthly instalments over the period of study The instalment provisions may be withdrawn from a student if the payment due dates are not met. The University of Stirling has the right to request credit references either from students or commercial organisations at any time, and can also withdraw or refuse instalment facilities if such references are unsatisfactory or if the student has previously fallen into arrears of payment to the University of Stirling within the current, or any previous academic year. 7. Withdrawal from the University before completion of studies In the event of a student having to withdraw before the end of their programme of study, The University operates a tuition fee refund policy which can be found at The refund will be made using the same payment method as the original payments in line with money laundering legislation. Data Classification: Public

37 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix A 8. Student Accommodation fees Accommodation offered by Accommodation Services is dependent on the student signing an occupancy agreement for the period of accommodation and agreeing to a payment plan to cover the accommodation fees. Accommodation fees can be paid in 1, 2, 6, or 8 monthly instalments. Information regarding student accommodation, including terms and conditions, and payment of residences rents is available at: 9. Other fees and charges Payment for the use of other University facilities or provision of resources must be paid in accordance with the agreed payment terms and conditions. These include (but are not limited to) library debts and fines, late payment charges, repayment of emergency or hardship loans, sports centre memberships and graduation fees. 10. Non-Payment of Fees and Charges Where there are outstanding fees and charges due to the University from students, the University will instigate debt recovery processes. These will be triggered, a) where an invoice for fees or charges is not settled by the due date, or b) where a payment in accordance with an agreed instalment plan is not received. This procedure seeks to encourage payment of outstanding student debts by facilitating dialogue leading to agreement on the resolution of debts: but also to take such action against student debtors as may be necessary to ensure equitable treatment of all students required to pay fees and charges. The debt recovery processes are detailed in Appendix A and will be followed where debt is identified. The processes in relation to tuition fee and academic related debt may include academic sanctions, withdrawal from the Programme of Study, and instigation of legal action to recover sums owed. The processes in relation to accommodation debt include notice to quit from accommodation and instigation of legal action to recover sums due. 11. Right of Appeal Students can submit an appeal in writing about their payment plan, outstanding balance or any additional charges to the Director of Finance. Data Classification: Public

38 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix A Appendix A Collection Processes to be followed for Late or Non Payment of fees and charges The focus of debt control procedures will be to enter in to a dialogue as soon as possible with students experiencing financial difficulty to lead to a mutually satisfactory resolution of the debt situation. Students experiencing difficulties in paying any fees and charges should seek help at the earliest opportunity by contacting a Student Advisor in Student Support Services. If a student fails to enter into such a dialogue or fails to honour agreements to pay, academic sanctions may be applied. Proportionate action to enforce settlement of debt for outstanding fees and charges will be taken against current and former students who have failed to engage to find a solution to any outstanding debt issues, or who have failed to honour agreements to pay Tuition Fees and academic related charges Day 0 (due date) Day 15 (working days after due date) Finance staff contact the student (normally by reminder to the students University account but also by any other communication mechanism available) requesting payment of the outstanding amount within 15 days from the date of the reminder. Students will be invited to contact the Student Support Services in the first instance if they are experiencing financial difficulties to discuss their payment problems and arrange a suitable payment plan if applicable. The reminder will set out the implications if debts are not paid when due, by reference to this policy on the University s website. Day 30 (working days after due date) If there is no response to the first , Finance will issue a second reminder to the student advising them that if no payment is received within 15 days academic sanctions may be applied which will include some or all of the following: a) Student s Library borrowing rights withdrawn. b) Withholding coursework and examination results. c) Enrolment with the University for the following year normally prevented (unless satisfactory arrangements have been made with Finance for repayment) d) The University reserves the right to insist that full or partial fees are paid upfront prior to commencing subsequent year of study, where there has been historic and consistent evidence of poor payment. e) University letters relating to academic performance, formal transcripts, diplomas and certificates normally withheld. f) Prevented from graduating. However the University will not impose sanctions whilst good-faith discussions are going on with the student concerned. Data Classification: Public

39 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix A Day 45 (working days after due date) If there is no response to the 30 day reminder , Finance will issue a confirmation to the student advising them of the sanctions applied. This reminder will state that if after a further 15 days the debtor fails to make payment, fails to make a suitable arrangement to discharge the debt, or fails to implement an agreed arrangement a letter will be issued advising that the student may be excluded from the University and asking him/her to contact Finance as a matter of urgency. Student Support Services will endeavour to make contact with the student to ensure that there are no welfare issues underlying the students failure to engage with the University. Day 60 (working days after due date) Where the Finance Office has made every reasonable effort to obtain payment and where it is apparent that the student is unlikely to pay the amount owed a letter will be issued advising that the student may be excluded from the University and asking him/her to contact Finance as a matter of urgency. This letter will state that if after a further 15 days the debtor fails to make payment, fails to make a suitable arrangement to discharge the debt, or fails to implement an agreed arrangement a letter will be issued advising that the student may be excluded from the University and asking him/her to contact Finance as a matter of urgency. A separate letter will be sent to International students advising them of the University s obligation to report them to the Home Office should they be excluded. Day 75 (working days after due date) Finance staff will issue a final to the student notifying them that the final step for exclusion from the University will be put in place. The consequences of this action will be explained to the student: o o o o They will no longer be classified as a student of the University They will be unable to use any of the teaching and learning facilities Details of their outstanding account will be passed to a commercial debt collection agency to obtain the payment due to the University and they will be liable for all costs incurred in raising this action The University may also terminate any University Accommodation Occupancy Agreement on giving 28 days notice in the event that the occupier ceases to be a registered student at the University. An excluded student who settles his/her academic debt owed to the University may apply for re-admission as a student, and such an application will be considered on an individual basis. A former student whether he/she has left the University following exclusion or otherwise, remains liable for debts to the University. If the debt remains unpaid, or an agreed repayment plan is not honoured, the University will continue to take measures to recover the debt, including the use of external debt-collection agency. Data Classification: Public

40 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix A Accommodation Fees Day 0 (Due Date) Day 5 (working days after due date) Accommodation services will issue an asking the student to pay any arrears within 5 days from the date of the reminder. Day 10 (working days after due date) If there is no response to the first Accommodation services will issue a second e- mail asking the student to attend an interview with Accommodation Services staff in order to discuss the arrears position. Day 15 (working days after due date) If no payment plan is agreed or the student fails to adhere to an agreed plan or if the student fails to contact or attend the meeting then the student will be asked to attend an interview with the Head of Accommodation Services. A failure to attend the meeting with the Head of Accommodation Services or make payment in accordance with an agreed plan, will result in a Notice to Quit being issued on their occupancy agreement. This gives 28 days for the student to leave their accommodation. Any accommodation debtor will not be offered accommodation in subsequent years nor be eligible to apply for a reference from the University for private letting. The University will continue to take measures to recover the outstanding debt at the Termination Date, including the use of an external debt-collection agency. Data Classification: Public

41 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix B Student Payment Policy Instalment Plans Benchmark Data Institution Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug University of Stirling Undergraduate Home /EU 25% 25% 25% 25% Undergraduate Non EU 65% 20% 15% Taught Postgraduate 65% 20% 15% Research Postgraduate 65% 20% 15% University of Edinburgh 50% 25% 25% University of Dundee 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% University of Glasgow 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% Glasgow Caledonian University International 50% 50% Home/EU/RUK 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% Heriot-Watt University 16.7% 16.7% 16.7% 16.7% 16.6% 16.6% Queen Margaret University 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% Robert Gordon University Option 1 50% 50% Option 2 40% 20% 20% 20% Edinburgh Napier University Option 1 50% 50% Option 2 33% 33% 34% Option 3 16% 17% 17% 17% 16% 16% University of West of Scotland 14% 14% 14% 14% 14% 15% 15% University of Aberdeen 50% 16% 17% 17% University of Strathclyde 33% 33% 34% Abertay University International Option 1 50% 25% 25% International Option 2 50% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7% Others Option 1 33% 34% 34% Others Option 2 14% 14% 14% 14% 15% 15% 14% University of St Andrews 50% 50%

42 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix C Student Payment Policy Prompt Payment Discounts Benchmark Data Institution University of Glasgow Glasgow Caledonian University Prompt Payment Discount Offering None For students joining in 2014/15, a discount of 5% off full fees will be given to self-funded International students who pay their deposit or full tuition fees early. To qualify for the discount, students should pay the minimum nonrefundable deposit by: 1 st August for Trimester A starts 1 st December for Trimester B starts Pay the remaining balance of fees in full prior to the start date of the course University of Edinburgh Edinburgh Napier University Heriot-Watt University University of Aberdeen University of St Andrews University of Dundee This discount is deducted from the tuition fee minus any scholarship awarded. Discounts are applicable to self-funded students only None The following discount is available for self-funded students with annual tuition fees in excess of 6,500. (With the exception of Collaborative Students) A discount of 160 for full payment made 30 days prior to matriculation None None None We offer a 5% discount for full payment of tuition fees in advance. A 5% discount applies if you are: an international fee payer enrolled on a full time undergraduate, postgraduate taught or research programme not in receipt of external scholarship or sponsorship - for example from a government or company not doing first year of studies only not or have not been a previously enrolled student at the University of Dundee If you are studying the following courses you are not eligible for the 5% discount: All Art programmes at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design All programmes in the School of Education, Social Work and Community Education All programmes in the School of Dentistry All programmes in the School of Nursing All programmes in the School of Medicine and Medical Education (with the exception of Master of Public Health)

43 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 34 Appendix C Student Payment Policy Prompt Payment Discounts Benchmark Data All study abroad, students on articulation agreements with their home institution (ie 3+1+1) and joint degree programmes The full amount of tuition fees must be in our bank account by the dates below: Course start date September January Full payment due by date 1st July 15th November You can request your refund of the discount once you have received an from us confirming your eligibility, this will be sent to your account approximately 6 weeks after you have matriculated. Abertay University Robert Gordon University University of Strathclyde None None The University offers a discount of 3% for the full advance payment of Tuition Fees if you meet the following conditions: 1) You must be a full-time student and fully self-funded. 2) Payment must be received by the University on or before the deadline date. NOTE if you are paying by Bank transfer the fund must be in the University s bank account on or before the deadline date. No refund will be made if received after this date. 3) Payment of fees must be made in advance in FULL. A refund will be made once Registration has taken place and qualifying conditions have been met. Refunds will be made end November ) DEADLINE DATES: 29th August st July 2014 (FOR PGDE STUDENTS) University of the West of Scotland Queen Margaret University All full fee paying overseas (non-eu) students who have paid their fees in full prior to, or on enrolment, providing this is within one week of formal classes commencing, will be entitled to a 10% discount on tuition fees None

44 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 35 Introduction UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING UNIVERSITY COURT Amendment to Ordinances 1. The February 2014 Office of Fair Trading (OFT) report on Universities Terms and Conditions concluded that the use of and reliance upon contract terms that allow the university to withhold graduation or progression or otherwise to exclude students from tuition for non-payment of ancillary services, in a blanket fashion and regardless of the circumstances, is open to challenge as potentially unfair under the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations 1999 ('UTCCRs') and/or may be unreasonable under the Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977 ('UCTA'). We also consider that practices around the use of such terms may constitute unfair commercial practices under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008 ('CPRs') 2. Consequently the University will not apply academic sanctions for the non-payment of non-tuition fee debt (i.e. accommodation and other ancillary charges) and amendments to ordinances have been made to reflect this practice. 3. Additionally, approval has been granted by the chair of the Education and Student Experience Committee (ESEC) for a new integrated four year programme leading to an MSci in Environmental Science to be delivered from session 2016/17. The School of Natural Sciences has requested that upon successful completion of this programme students are awarded with an MSci degree. The MSci is not currently an award conferred by the University. Purpose 4. This paper is for approval by University Court. Equality implications 5. There are no direct equality implications arising from this paper. Resource implications 6. There are no direct resource implications arising from this paper. Data Classification 7. This document is classified as Public. Recommendations 8. University Court is asked to approve the proposed amendments to Ordinance 18 (matriculation, registration and payment of fees and charges by students) and Ordinance 58 (degrees, diplomas and certificates of the university). Governance and Review 4 March 2015

45 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 35 ORDINANCE 18 MATRICULATION, REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT OF FEES AND CHARGES BY STUDENTS (Charter reference Article 3(b), Statute 10.2(d)) 1. A person who has satisfied the conditions of admission to the University shall become a student in terms of Statute 1 on matriculation and that status shall continue until that person: (i) notifies the University in writing of withdrawal from the University, or in the absence of such notification is deemed to have withdrawn by or on behalf of the Academic Council; or (ii) is required by or on behalf of the Academic Council to discontinue studies; or (iii) is granted a Degree, Diploma, Certificate or other academic distinction by the Academic Council; or (iv) is required by the University to withdraw for non payment of fees or other academic debts; or (v) is expelled from the University under the terms of the Code of Student Discipline. 2. Matriculation shall require a declaration that the person will undertake to observe the Charter, Statutes, Ordinances and Regulations of the University and any other rules which the University may make for its students from time to time and will pay or cause to be paid all fees and other charges fixed by the University Court. That declaration shall remain in force for the duration of the person s study or research. 3. Students undertaking courses of study may be required to register at the commencement of each session or semester on specified dates, and those undertaking research upon arrival at the University. Full registration will only be permitted if the student does not owe the University money for fees or other academic debts is not in debt to the University. Provisional registration may be granted in writing to students in debt at the discretion of the Director of Finance but such registration will automatically terminate on the last day of the following month unless previously extended by the Director of Finance in writing. Academic debts Indebtedness to the University shall include the following: (i) tuition, composition and other academic fees; (ii) graduation fees (iii) enrolment fees (iv) thesis submission fees (v) other academic fees (ii) charges for accommodation, heating, lighting and associated charges; (iii) repayment of any loans from the Access or other Funds; (iv) fines and other charges under the Code of Student Discipline, Regulations for use of the Library and Computing Services; (v) any other debts not included in (i) to (iv). All fees and other charges may be altered by the University without notice. 4. It shall be competent for the Director of Finance to impose a charge by way of interest on unpaid debts from the date of incurring the debt until the date of full repayment at 2% above the Base Lending Rate of the Bank of Scotland applicable on the date of full repayment. 5. A student undertaking a course of study who does not register on the specified dates shall, unless granted prior written permission by the Academic Registrar on medical or compassionate grounds, be required to pay a late registration fee specified by the Court. 6. There shall be a right of appeal to a Deputy Principal against a decision by the Director of Finance not to exercise discretion in terms of paragraph 3. The Deputy Principal s decision shall be communicated to the student in writing and shall be final. 7. For the avoidance of doubt, a student who has been elected to a recognized full time office of the Students Association shall remain a matriculated student of the University until the end of the session for which elected.

46 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 35 ORDINANCE 58 DEGREES, DIPLOMAS AND CERTIFICATES OF THE UNIVERSITY (Charter reference Article 3(c), Statute 10.2(c)) 1. The Degrees of the University shall be: (a) FIRST DEGREES: Bachelor of Accountancy B.Acc. Bachelor of Arts B.A. Bachelor of Education B.Ed. (discontinued) Bachelor of Educational Studies B.Educ.Studs. (discontinued) Bachelor of Laws LL.B. Bachelor of Midwifery B.M. Bachelor of Nursing B.N. Bachelor of Science B.Sc. Bachelor of Social Work B.S.W. (b) HIGHER DEGREES: (i) Master s Degrees Master of Arts M.A. Master of Business Administration M.B.A. Master of Education M.Ed. Master of Laws LL.M. Master of Laws LL.M. (by Research) Master of Letters M.Litt Master of Midwifery M.M. Master of Nursing M.N. Master of Philosophy M.Phil. Master of Public Policy MPP Master of Research M.Res. Master of Science M.Sc. Integrated Master of Science MSci (ii) Doctorates Doctor of Applied Social Research D.A.S.R. Doctor of Education Ed.D. Doctor of Philosophy Ph.D. Doctor of Business Administration D.B.A. Doctor of Diplomacy DDipl Doctor of Midwifery Mid.D. Doctor of Nursing Nurs. D. Doctor of Professional Health Studies D.P.H.S (iii) Higher Degrees Doctor of Letters D.Litt. Doctor of Science D.Sc. (c) HONORARY DEGREES: Doctor of the University Master of Arts D.Univ. M.A. 2. The Diplomas of the University shall be: Postgraduate Diploma Graduate Diploma Diploma 3. The Certificates of the University shall be: Postgraduate Certificate Graduate Certificate Certificate 4. Awards of Completion The University also provides certification to reflect attendance on, and completion of, a programme of study. These include (but are not limited to): University Diploma University Certificate International Summer School

47 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 35 Access Programme 5. Regulations made by the Academic Council shall prescribe: (a) any special requirements for entry on a particular degree, diploma or certificate course in addition to the requirements of Ordinance 17; (b) details of the courses of study, examinations and other matters relating to degrees, diplomas and certificates of the University; (c) the conditions upon which a degree, diploma or certificate may be awarded in substitution for an award already held. 6. To qualify for a degree, a diploma or a certificate, a candidate must: (a) have been admitted to the University; (b) have matriculated as a student of the University; (c) have completed an approved programme of study or research and satisfied the academic requirements of the programme as laid down in Ordinances and Regulations; (d) have paid the prescribed tuition fees and other academic fees; (e) if candidate for a higher degree by research, have lodged copies of the thesis in the manner prescribed. 7. The granting of a degree, a diploma or a certificate may be withheld if a candidate is in debt to the University for tuition/academic fees or is the subject of an outstanding disciplinary charge. Where such a charge is resolved by a decision to expel the candidate, the Academic Council reserves the right not to grant the award. 8. No person may represent himself or herself as a graduate of the University until a degree has been granted to him or her by, or on behalf of, the Academic Council. 9. Degrees (other than honorary degrees), diplomas and certificates shall be awarded by or on behalf of the Academic Council on the recommendation of the School concerned. Revised Ordinance approved by the University Court: 26 June 2006, 17 March 2008, 23 March 2009, 13 December 2010, 20 June 2011, 12 December 2013, 31 March 2014, 23 June 2014, 15 December 2014

48 23 March 2015 UC (14/15) 36 UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING UNIVERSITY COURT The Big Plan Introduction 1 The University of Stirling Students Union have developed a Big Plan for which sets out their strategic aims for the period. Purpose 2 The Big Plan has been approved by the Students Union and is being brought to Court for members to note. The Big Plan 3 The Big Plan details what the Union are aiming to do in the following areas and how the success will be measured: Democratic and Academic Representation Support and Wellbeing Activities, Sport, Clubs and Societies Communities, Volunteering and Environment Social, Cultural and Enterprise Equality implications 4 There are no equality implications for the University. Resource implications 5 In order to deliver the Big Plan additional funding will be required by the Student Union. A detailed business proposal for increased funding of the block grant was submitted to the University in January. The Student Union would like Court to note that (apart from the underwriting of sport) core block grant funding has remained static since We are confident that the University appreciates the benefits and impact that a better resourced Student Union will provide. Achieving the plan will translate directly to improving the University experience of all students. Data Classification 6 This document is classed as public. Recommendations 7 Members are asked to: note the University of Stirling Students Union Big Plan Policy & Planning March

49 UC (14/15) 36 THE BIG PLAN THE UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING STUDENTS UNION

50 UC (14/15) 36 Purpose & Values 03 Summary of The Big Plan 04 Aims 05 Democratic & Academic Representation 06 Social, Cultural & Enterprise 10 Communities, Volunteering & Environmental 09 Activities, Sports, Clubs Development 08 Support & Wellbeing 07 - Enablers 11 People /Finance 12 Communications /Facilities 13

51 UC (14/15) 36 PURPOSE AND VALUES Our Purpose is to Make Students Lives Better Our Values are: Equality & Diversity Sense of Belonging Helpful & Fun Ambitious Responsible 03

52 SUMMARY OF THE BIG PLAN Summary of the Big Plan This plan sets out our ambitious and comprehensive strategy to be an exemplary Student Union. We aim to ensure all students enjoy University life to the full and that the Student Union achieves its mission to Make Students Lives Better. Our principal strategic aims can be summarised as follows; Create a sense of belonging by being helpful and supportive, delivering professional services and vibrant activities in a framework of Equality and Diversity. Provide academic Support Services that are accessible, inclusive, independent and available at all campuses for students in need of individual support. Influence key decisions and embed and evaluate any curriculum, learning and teaching modifications; achieved through enhanced student representative structures and a full year support service. Work with the University s Student Support Service to ensure all students individual needs are being met, by providing neutral professional mediation services within the Student Union. Individual crisis situations can occur at any time, with this in mind we aim to develop an out of hours peer listening and signposting service. To maximise effectiveness of club presidents and committees, we aim to develop training and coaching provision whilst also working with the University s Sport Development Service to ensure all students sporting needs are met. We will help to deliver the University s Strategy for Sport, focusing on participation and performance to harness the links between sport participation and improved health and wellbeing. UC (14/15) 36 Facilitate student led co-curricular and collaborative activities through clubs, societies and volunteering opportunities. To enhance employability prospects, we will seek module accreditation where work experience links to coursework and support enterprise ideas opportunities for all students. We will support delivery of the University s Employability Strategy and work with the Career Development Centre and Enterprise Incubator. Provide relevant and inclusive events, activities and social study spaces, to enhance cultural and social life on campus for our internationally diverse population. Our commercial services (shop/catering/café/bar) will deliver quality, value for money and employment opportunities for students. Minimise the environmental impact of the University and its students by implementing our innovative Green agenda in collaboration with the University. We aim to communicate the benefits of these life enhancing and enjoyable activities to enrich the University experience. Additional funding and resources will be required in order to deliver this ambitious strategic plan. We are confident that the University appreciates the benefits and impact that a better resourced Student Union will provide. Achieving this plan will translate directly to improving the University experience for all students at Stirling. Amy McDermott Union President Barbara Mckissack Chair of the Trustee Board 04

53 This plan aims to deliver: UC (14/15) 36 AIMS Social, Cultural and Enterprise Communities, Volunteering and Environment Activities, Sport, Clubs and Societies Support and Wellbeing Democratic and Academic Representation 05

54 DEMOCRATIC AND ACADEMIC REPRESENTATION We will represent students interests at both local and national level, influencing key decisions and shaping the curriculum in line with students changing requirements. We will enhance student representative and democratic structures and increase the listening that we do. How will we achieve this? Facilitate and support the student voice and support the delivery of relevant and effective campaigns informed through evidence from casework, surveys and other student feedback. Ensure the Union s electoral process is appropriately governed, well publicised and administered. In partnership with the University, recruit and train course representatives and school officers to represent all student groups. Support and develop the leadership qualities and skill sets of student officers, to enable them to represent students effectively at the University and externally. Measure of Success Increase the number of course representatives and school officers recruited and trained. Ensure that elections are contested and electoral turnout increases year on year. Improve participation levels in surveys and use the analysis of the results to shape change. Evidence and publicise changes to University policies or decision making which are attributable to Union interventions. Increase RATE and StARs programme participation and evaluate outcomes. UC (14/15) 36 Drive student participation in all surveys including the National Student Survey (NSS), the Post Graduate Taught Survey (PTES), Post Graduate Research Survey (PReS). Analyse the results and identify areas of improvement for the University and Student Union. Effectively develop and deliver programmes, such as Recognising Achievement in Teaching Excellence (RATE) and Students as Researchers (StARs). Work in partnership with the University on the Enhancement Led Institutional Review (ELIR). Develop policy in line with students changing requirements. 06

55 SUPPORT& WELLBEING We will provide accessible, inclusive and independent information, support and guidance; we aim to be the first point of contact for students who are experiencing difficulties and are in need of individual representation. How will we achieve this? Promote the Union s student support widely to all students and University staff, to increase awareness of what we offer and how to access the services. Develop and deliver an appropriate out of hours peer listening and signposting service. Increase staff capacity and expertise to deliver professional academic representation casework, advocacy, mediation and out of hours support services. Measure of Success Increased numbers of self-referrals due to more preventative support and signposting. Increasing awareness and use of services within the student population. Increase in University retention rates especially in relation to articulated, wider access and international student cohorts. UC (14/15) 36 Strengthen links with other University of Stirling Campuses and develop accessible information, support and representation to these student populations. Working with the University s Accommodation Services, offer support and training to groups of students undertaking challenging roles such as Accommodation Liaison Students (ALS). Work closely with partners such as the University, Citizens Advice Bureau, Shelter and other third sector providers to develop appropriate services on campus. Work in partnership with NHS Forth Valley to deliver Scottish Mental Health First Aid and Assist training to staff and students. Continue to deliver de-stress activities and initiatives. Ensure all staff and officers are aware of equality and diversity issues and that support provided reflects these principles. Develop and implement effective recording and monitoring system to capture casework undertaken, outcomes, student demographics, trends, potential campaigning issues, signposting, referrals, connections to other services and volume of work undertaken. 07

56 ACTIVITIES & SPORTS, CLUBS DEVELOPMENT We will create a sense of belonging, fun and enjoyment. We will effectively communicate the benefits of these life enhancing activities to ensure students enjoy their University experience to the full. How will we achieve this? Influence and actively support the implementation of the University s Strategy for Sport. Development of sports clubs and clubs and societies through professional staff support. Empower and develop clubs, societies and sports clubs through clubs academy, leadership training and individual support. Improve club profiles and administration, identifying and negating any barriers to participation, highlight the benefits of club, society and sports club membership and the added benefits of committee involvement. Measure of Success Increased participation in clubs, societies and sports clubs year on year. Effective club administration and fundraising. Deliver HEAR ensuring that co-curricular and volunteering activities can be evidenced. Participation and achievement in sport and competitive activities. Achieve 5 stars in the NUS (National Union of Students) Healthy Body Healthy Mind programme. UC (14/15) 36 Add to employability prospects through the delivery of Higher Education Achievement Reports (HEAR) on Stirling transcripts. Seek module accreditation where there are direct work experience opportunities within subject specific societies. Ensure that students have access to a range of activities that link Sport, Disability, Health and Wellbeing. Celebrate and recognise active participation within clubs, societies and sports teams at the annual Clubs and Societies Ball and Sports Ball. 08

57 COMMUNITIES, VOLUNTEERING AND ENVIRONMENTAL We aim to expand and enhance students University experience by providing a wide range of volunteering opportunities within the local community. Working with the University, we aim to minimise the environmental impact of the Institution and its students. How will we achieve this? Work closely with the University to deliver the Internationalisation strategy through events, peer support and other initiatives. Provide volunteering opportunities linked to the community and forge strong links with Alumni Ambassadors. Work with the University to deliver the STEER mentoring program and joint employability and volunteering events with the Career Development Centre. Use volunteering to bridge the gap between the student community and wider population. Offer employability focused opportunities; Entry level job initiative, the V Team, F Team. Measure of Success Achieve Investors in Volunteers renewal. Recognition of student community engagement through local press and local volunteering awards. Increase participation in all active volunteer programmes. Monitor programmes and services through feedback and evaluations. Achieve NUS Green Impact accreditation. Continued attraction of external funding to deliver sustainable projects. UC (14/15) 36 Community involvement and engagement through Stirling Digs with landlords, the Council and tenants. Secure funds to ensure there is staff capacity dedicated to developing and delivering environmental projects. Build a mutually supportive relationship with the University in regards to environmental initiatives, and encourage the University to minimise its environmental impact and embed sustainability throughout the Institution, through Green Champions and other joint initiatives. Support activities aimed at increasing on-campus biodiversity and engagement with the campus as a natural environment. Encourage and support the development of employability skills through awards such as the Students Active & Innovative Leadership programme (SAIL), Students as Researchers (StARs) project and internship opportunities. 09

58 SOCIAL, CULTURAL AND ENTERPRISE We will provide relevant and inclusive events, activities and support enterprise opportunities for all students. We will ensure that our commercial services deliver quality and value to our members in our catering/café/bar facilities delivering student focused social study space and flexible events venues. How will we achieve this? Continue to build the quality brand offer and ensure excellent customer experience for all. Be accessible; working with individual students and clubs to support the planning, organisation and delivery of successful events and ensure that they are effectively supported by officers and staff. Measure of Success Variety in service provision. Good student feedback to help shape activity. Number of successful events. Attendance, Turnover, Surplus etc. UC (14/15) 36 Market our offer effectively; listen to students and add value ( You said We did ) through communications. Encourage and facilitate a Union team approach to the promotion, engagement and success of all our ventures. Diversity of students utilising the facility. Increased ranking of survey scores. Work closely with colleagues at other Institutions to share best practice and seek to develop new initiatives such as the Coffee House Sessions. In partnership with the Enterprise incubator at the University, support, where possible and practical, student enterprise activities. Renovate our spaces into multi-purpose venues in order to match students multi-faceted requirements. 10

59 ENABLERS Underpinning these priorities, there are 4 enablers which the Union will focus on in order to have the greatest impact. Communications UC (14/15) 36 People Finance Facilities 11

60 PEOPLE/ FINANCE People We aim to be an employer of choice with staff operating within a positive, supportive and empowering culture. We will ensure all staff are valued and in return provide an excellent service. How will we achieve this? Recruit and retain both specialist/professional and student staff. Invest in training and development for individuals and teams Ensure effective Human Resource (HR) practices and policies are in place. Offer relevant remuneration to attract and retain professional staff. Measure of Success Low staff turnover and retention of effective staff. Improvement in staff survey results. Evidence of Continual Professional Development (CPD). UC (14/15) 36 Conduct bi-annual staff satisfaction surveys and evaluate and act on findings. Ensure effective performance and development reviews are undertaken by all staff. Finance We will work with the University and other funding partners to ensure that the Union is resourced to deliver on all priorities aligned to this plan. We will ensure that the Union is operating as a viable institution, balancing innovation and risk. How will we achieve this? In partnership with the University, develop a block grant funding mechanism which is fit for purpose, and will enable core and additional service delivery. Secure Capital Investment to convert internal space for social study and various club activities. Ensure effective financial planning with monthly management accounting and budget comparison. Measure of Success Adequate block grant funding agreed for the next 3 years to deliver this plan. Improved financial strength of the Union through effective budgetary control. Effective external reporting e.g. Annual Accounts. Ensure regular Finance and Resources Committee meetings, with minutes submitted to the Trustee Board for financial scrutiny and transparency. Agree a reserves policy. 12

61 COMMUNICATIONS/ FACILITIES Communications We will ensure that our communications are effective and tailored to the needs of our diverse student body. We aim to improve overall satisfaction by understanding our membership, including groups which are not involved in Union activities, and targeting approaches to include these students. How will we achieve this? Develop a communications plan which will combine audience, message and channel, thus making communications more relevant to all students. Use the Membership Solutions (MSL) web platform to its full potential. Raise awareness in all stakeholders of the unique services the Student Union provides. Ensure all internal services and departments develop a marketing plan and publish online. Provide bite size offers to stimulate involvement and inclusion. Facilities Measure of Success More effective communications demonstrated through more informed members, increased attendance and web traffic. Online resources developed and accessible. Additional revenue from Marketing functions. We will utilise the Union spaces effectively and ensure, in partnership with the University, we have well maintained, appropriate and accessible facilities on and off campus available for all of the Union s activities. UC (14/15) 36 How will we achieve this? Redevelop the night club space into a flexible and versatile venue, to be used for social study, clubs, societies and social space. Continue with smaller tactical investments to upgrade the facilities as appropriate. Measure of Success Increased activities within the Union building. Increased use of facilities in relation to diversity of students. Facilities are available as required. Continue maintenance programme of Student Union facilities on campus. Work with the University to ensure student sport and club activities have access to the facilities they require to thrive. Work with the University to ensure the commercial facilities can operate profitably for specific events outwith semester. 13

62 UC (14/15) 36 ONLINE 14

63 UC (14/15) 36 University Of Stirling Students Union University of Stirling The Robbins Centre Stirling FK9 4LA Making Students' Lives Better