We have developed some guidance in relation to the university’s new approach to timetabling and flexible working requests. If you have any queries or experience individual issues in this area please get in touch with your department rep or info@swanseaucu.org

What consultation took place?

As part of the consultation process, a UCU representative was part of the timetabling board, led by Steve McVeigh, where decisions were made on the new policy. This occurred between July 2024 and November 2024 until a final policy was agreed by SLT and passed through Senate. 

What was Swansea UCU’s response to the consultation?

UCU continually raised issues in relation to existing policies at Swansea University in terms of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. Aspects such as the family friendly nature of the new policy, and the emphasis on student experience rather than staff wellbeing was continually raised in the timetabling board, over email and at JCNC. We remain concerned about this new process in terms of EDI, family flexibility, and staff wellbeing. 

What was agreed?

Movements were made to improve the policy in terms of wording, and to allow additional considerations regarding availability, such as the inclusion of regular external research meetings as a possible reason for being unavailable to teach. In addition, the time for staff to correct any issues in timetabling has been extended from 2 weeks to 3 weeks (not including half-term holidays where parents or careers would be disadvantaged in terms of time available to make changes). Nevertheless, UCU remains concerned about the short timeframes, particularly as they are occurring in busy times of the year where exam boards, assessments and annual leave takes place.

What does the new policy mean in practical terms?

Now that the teaching constraints have been removed, those who would like adjustments made to their timetabling (for example due to caring responsibilities) will need to apply for Flexible Working. This means that your working pattern may be amended formally for a 12 month period, which can be used by the timetabling team when designing the timetable for the 2025 – 2026 academic term. 

What should I do if there are issues?

If UCU members experience issues having applied for Flexible Working, they should contact their UCU representative or info@swanseaucu.org as soon as possible with all of the information. We would recommend for members who likely need amended timetables based on childcare to explore Flexible Working Arrangements soon, given there may be a backlog given the substantial change to timetabling.