Industrial action and strikes called off

Dear students,

I am writing with good news about the proposed industrial action that was due to take place Monday 25 - Friday 29 September. 

I am pleased to say that, following very positive local talks, our local York UCU branch is calling off all of next week's strike at the University. This means all teaching and learning will go ahead as normal.

Along with the announcement that the marking and assessment boycott had ended, this is great news for our students, who can now focus on settling into the first semester of teaching. 

At York, we are fortunate to have a strong relationship with our local UCU, supported by regular and open dialogue. As we set out together in our recent article, we share some key principles on staff pay and sector funding. 

At the same time negotiations at national level continue, but it is my hope that we can use this example - of how we’re bridging divisions here at York - as a platform for further influence in the national debate, and to push for an end to any more industrial action in the future.

For now though, I look forward to a great start to the semester for all of you.

Best wishes

Charlie 

President and Vice-Chancellor