Court meeting: 8 February 2016
The University Court had its most recent meeting on 8 February.
We publish regular updates on matters discussed at all Court meetings, during which members consider matters of strategic importance to the University.
Meetings of the Court are held five times a year.
Governing body
The Court is the University’s governing body and its legal persona.
With a focus on strategic direction, it takes the final decisions on issues of fundamental concern to the wellbeing of the University.
Detailed information on the membership and activities of the University Court, including meeting agendas, papers and minutes, is available online.
Detailed information on University Court
Summary of Court meeting: 8 February 2016
The following reports are summaries of a selection of items discussed and agreed at Court on 8 February.
Strategic Plan 2016
A high level draft of the Strategic Plan 2016 was reviewed. Building on initial discussions with staff and students, it was noted that the Strategic Plan will be produced in a manner that is accessible to all stakeholders (in terms of format and language) and that highlights the University’s distinctiveness, particularly in those aspects of the University’s present and future deemed crucial to its success over a five to ten year period.
Publication of the high level draft for consultation with staff and students between February and April was approved, with a final draft to be submitted to the June meeting.
Undergraduate Bursary Review
An evaluation of the University of Edinburgh and Scotland Accommodation bursary schemes introduced in 2012/13 and 2013/14 respectively was considered.
Court agreed that the University of Edinburgh and Scotland Accommodation bursary schemes are effective and should not be substantially changed. More work will be undertaken to ensure that the full support available for students is more visible; to examine variations in retention rates; and, once information is available, to assess the impact of the replacement of government maintenance grants with loans for English-domiciled students in receipt of bursaries.
Responsible Investment Policy Statement
Court approved a policy statement summarising the approach the University takes to responsible investing and highlighting the progress made along with actions planned in response to policy decisions and strategic objectives relating to environmental, social and governance considerations. The statement aims to reflect the University’s core values and mission – and its pledge to make a significant, sustainable and socially responsible contribution to Scotland, the UK and the world.
EDMARC – Equality, Diversity Monitoring and Research Committee Report
The annual reports from the Equality, Diversity Monitoring and Research Committee providing analysis of student and staff data on available equality protected characteristics were approved for publication.
Dignity and Respect Policy
A revised Dignity and Respect policy was approved following recommendation by Central Management Group.
[Note: new version not uploaded as yet.]
Other items
Court received an update on ongoing work to enhance the student experience; an update on the proposed City Deal for the Edinburgh region; approved the creation of Roslin Technologies Ltd – to facilitate the commercialisation of research from the Roslin Institute and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies; received an update from EUSA; and received reports from its Committees on activities being undertaken in support of Court.
Further information on the remit and work of Court and its Committees can be found online.
Related links
University Governance: useful information