University and SU sign official agreement for best working practice
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has signed a partnership agreement with the UCLan Students’ Union (SU) that will see the two bodies working closer than ever before in a drive to enhance the student experience to new levels of excellence.
The official agreement, which is legally binding, pledges both parties to recognise and act upon the wishes of the student voice, promote equality and diversity and encourage mutual respect and understanding of each other’s distinct roles.
Both the University and SU are independent bodies that manage their own affairs but have a shared commitment to developing and improving the student experience whenever possible. The two parties have a strong history of working closely together and the signing of the partnership by Vice-Chancellor Professor Mike Thomas, Chair of the University Board David Taylor, SU President Sana Iqbal and SU Chief Executive Officer Peter Shilton-Godwin cements this further.
"Within the changing landscape of UK higher education it has never been more important for us to work hand in glove with the Students’ Union to put student needs at the forefront of everything we do."
David Taylor commented: “Within the changing landscape of UK higher education it has never been more important for us to work hand in glove with the Students’ Union to put student needs at the forefront of everything we do. UCLan is going through a significant period of development and our £200 million Masterplan is very much focused on creating new spaces that meet the needs of our diverse student population, transforming the University as a place to learn.”
Eight key principles that underpin the agreement. This includes a commitment to strategic partnership, a student-centred approach, respect for equality and diversity and openness and trust. They draw on guidelines that have been set out by the National Students’ Union (NUS) and the Committee of University Chairs (CUC) to enhance the working relationship between universities and students’ unions. Key points include an agreement that SU representatives will be involved in decision making within the University when appropriate, an acknowledgement that healthy debate between both parties plays a vital role in the University community and a shared vision that every student is able to take up the opportunities that UCLan offers to achieve their goals.
SU President Sana Iqbal said: “I am delighted to be signing this document on behalf of the Students’ Union Board of Trustees. This partnership agreement will build a strong foundation for SU elected officers and the University executive team to work alongside each other and achieve great things for students.”
