Understand
University union threatens further Nottingham strike action
Overview
The University and College Union (UCU) at the University of Nottingham has warned that ongoing strike action could continue into 2027 following the approval of the 'Future Nottingham' restructuring plan. Although the governing body reduced threatened job cuts from 609 to 480, the union states that remaining cuts, course closures, and increased staff-student ratios mean further action remains a possibility under its mandate, which runs until April 2027.
Key points
- The University of Nottingham's 'Future Nottingham' restructuring plan was approved by its governing body.
- The number of threatened job cuts was reduced from 609 to 480, though 142 posts remain under threat despite voluntary redundancies.
- The UCU is currently striking until 11 December and warns that industrial action could continue into 2027.
- The restructuring includes closing modern languages and music degrees, streamlining support services, and ending traditional one-to-one tutoring.
- The university stated that the changes are necessary to address financial pressures, student recruitment competition, and long-term unsustainability.
- Students have expressed concern and stress over how the strikes and lost teaching hours are impacting their assessments.