The following items were discussed at the recent meeting of University Council:
- Higher Ambitions:
Council considered the implications of the new framework for the future success of higher education which had recently been unveiled by Lord Mandelson (pdf). This sets out the important role universities will play in securing the country’s economic recovery and long term prosperity. - Tuition Fee Review:
Council noted the appointment of Lord Browne of Madingley as Chair of the Independent Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance. The review will make recommendations to the Government next year on the future of fees policy and financial support for students. - National HE STEM Programme:
Council noted that Bath is one of six universities selected to work as part of a £21m initiative to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) throughout England and Wales. The other universities are Birmingham, Bradford, Manchester Metropolitan, Southampton and Swansea. - John Wood Main Building and Cleveland Building:
Council approved plans for phase two of the refurbishment of John Wood Main Building and Cleveland Building. The refurbishment of John Wood Main Building will provide 62 enhanced ensuite rooms and 17 enhanced standard rooms. The refurbishment of Cleveland Building will provide 87 enhanced ensuite rooms, 55 enhanced standard rooms, 6 enhanced studios and 2 one bedroom flats. Improved kitchens, electrical installations, telephone facilities and fire alarm systems will also be provided for both buildings. The work will be undertaken during the Summer 2010 vacation. - University Accounts:
Council approved the University Accounts for the year ended 31 July 2009. - Corporate Plan 2009/10 to 2013/14:
Council approved the University’s Corporate Plan for 2009/10 to 2013/14. This sets out the Vision, Mission Statement, Corporate Goals and Values/Attributes of the University. - Single Equality Scheme:
Council approved the University’s first Single Equality Scheme, which now takes the place of its Gender, Race and Disability Schemes. The purpose of the Scheme is to ensure that that students, staff and visitors of the University are treated with equity regardless of gender, trans status, race or disability. The Action Plan which is part of the Scheme identifies strategic areas with regard to equality and diversity issues on which we will concentrate our efforts to improve outcomes between 2010 and 2012. - Presentation:
Council received a presentation on fund raising from Siôn Lutley, Director of Development & Alumni Relations, which highlighted significant successes over the past two years and identified current projects.