Upcoming industrial action

Despite constructive and continued negotiations throughout today, some staff who are University and College Union (UCU) members will be going on strike next week from Monday 24 March until Friday 28 March.

This will lead to some classes being cancelled, although not all staff are UCU members so the impact will be different in different areas. We are sorry if this affects you and we will do all we can to minimise the impact on your studies.

We have put some key links and info below to help you prepare – keep an eye on your inbox for any further updates on what this may mean in your area.

Online Module Registration will open as usual on 24 March and exam timetables will also be shared next week as planned.

What to expect on strike days

• Some of your classes may be cancelled; union members don’t have to tell us if they are taking strike action so we won’t always know in advance.
• If your teaching session is cancelled because of strike action, it will have no impact on your attendance record. Sessions where no attendance is recorded are not included in your overall attendance percentage.
• You might see UCU members picketing on campus; these are peaceful protests which will be stewarded by the Union.
• Other services may be affected but we’ll work to make sure all essential support services are running as usual. Our libraries and catering outlets will also be open as usual.

How to prepare for strike days

The impact of industrial action can be hard to predict and is likely to be different in different areas. It’s best to plan ahead as far as you can and get in touch if you’re not sure about anything:

• Talk to your lecturer – to find out if they are taking part in strike days. Not all staff will be on strike and many classes will go ahead as scheduled so it is best to ask in advance so you can plan around it.
• Keep receipts – if you arrive at a lecture or seminar to find it has been cancelled, keep a record of the direct costs you incurred so we can reimburse you.
• Still submit work – if you have a deadline on a strike day. You still need to submit work unless advised differently by your School or lecturer.
• Meet with your lecturer after strikes – for support and advice on how to catch up with missed work.
• Ask for help if you need it – see our support webpage for who to contact if you have questions or concerns about industrial action.

How to prepare for a strike day.

KSU’s SpeakUp! tool: Use KSU’s academic reporting tool ‘SpeakUp!’ to record any missed teaching and to let us know if you have incurred any direct costs as a result of this.

From the Student Support and Wellbeing Team at Kent

Following the government announcement made yesterday on the proposals being put together for PIP and benefits we understand that the media coverage and reporting has caused upset to those in our community who receive this or have a relative that is in receipt of it.

In Student Support and Wellbeing we believe in offering full support, understanding and compassion to those that live day to day with disabilities and this includes mental health conditions and those that support loved ones. Whilst debate around support is welcome it is really important that the views and experiences of those who live with a disability or long-term health condition are given prominence, ensuring respect is shown to all and that decisions are not taken based on either limited understanding or unhelpful stereotypes.

At this stage these are proposals and any changes that come in to place will not be until next year and we have more to learn to understand what is being proposed and how this will impact those in receipt.

Regardless of what is said I want to reassure our students that at Kent we listen to students who are struggling and, in some instances, need extra support. You are important, you matter, and you are a valued part of our community. If the recent media coverage has caused distress do remember you can reach out to your SSW Adviser or speak to the Advice Centre at Kent Union. If you are dealing difficult or intrusive thoughts following these announcements you can also speak to a counsellor at Spectrum Life or call 111 and press option 2. Please do not struggle, there are people here and in other organisations that can help support you.

We will look at what support we offer around this going forward but for now we want to send this message to you in solidarity and to acknowledge what will be a difficult time ahead

This month’s Kent Star is Aashvi, who has organised community events, including the celebrated Iftar Dinner. Her leadership extends to numerous roles, such as chairing the Racially and Ethnically Marginalised People (REMP) Network and serving as President of the Geography Society. Aashvi’s commitment to inclusivity, sustainability and environmental justice is evident in all her endeavours. Hear from Campus Champion Aashvi:

“Hi, my name is Aashvi. My pronouns are she/her and I’m studying Environment and Sustainability at the University of Kent.”

Tell us about the Iftar Dinner you’ve organised this evening? 

“I am a ResLife Ambassador and organise events for people that stay at the University of Kent accommodation. And last year, as part of Kent Students’ Union, the International Student Voices research project, I helped, along with my partner at the time Hur Aly, host the first university-wide Iftar Dinner at Rutherford. And through my role this year, I along with my partner Nehi Eigbefoh, wanted to bring that back again, because it’s so nice to have a community, where people can break their fast and also invite other people to come, join in and learn more about Ramadan, Eid and Iftar.”

Please tell us about your other roles at the University? And can you choose a favourite? 

“Where do I even start? I’m the chair of the Racially and Ethnically Marginalised People (REMP) Network and the President of Geography Society. The Social Secretary of the Sustainability Working Group, Student Ambassador, a ResLife Ambassador, and a Student Trustee at the Kent Students’ Union Board of Trustees.

“Last year, I was a Student Rep for the School of Anthropology and Conservation. I was part of the BioBlitz Organising Committee, as part of the Marketing Officer. So I have lots of roles, but it’s really hard to choose a favourite because I love what I do in all of them. But my passion really lies in sustainability and environmental justice.

“It’s definitely a lot to say, but it’s impossible to choose a favourite. Because I have a passion for each and every one of the roles. And they’re also unique in different ways. I love environmental justice and sustainability, and I hope to also make my degree a part of my everyday life through decolonisation and equity.”

Aashvi at the Iftar dinner she helped organise

What advice would you give to other students? 

“University is a time to explore and get out of your comfort zone. It’s easier said than done, but really lean into doing and exploring new things. Finding what makes you, YOU, and I guess having fun through all of it – and definitely utilise the student discounts!”

What are your plans for next year? 

“Honestly. No idea. As a type A person, I usually have everything scheduled, but I am embracing the unknown. I don’t know where I’m going to be. But hopefully either at a placement year or university. I definitely want to attend more concerts and travel a lot because the UK is great for that, but we’ll see where it goes.”

Do you know an inspirational student or student group? Let us know.

Learn more about the Kent Stars campaign.