Hello from new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simone Buitendijk
Professor Simone Buitendijk has taken up her post as the thirteenth Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds. In her message and video to all staff, she acknowledges the difficulties posed by the coronavirus pandemic, while also pointing out that universities are strong change-makers, capable of solving global challenges. She also looks forward to continuing the great work already underway at Leeds right across our disciplines and activities.
Do you have a question for Simone? Or any tips for destinations and attractions in the Leeds region? Let us know and we’ll select some to put to Simone later this month.
Update on working arrangements for next term
University Secretary, Roger Gair, emailed all colleagues on 26 August to confirm arrangements for the next academic term. The communication covers working arrangements, flexible working space, reopening buildings and areas within them (including offices), parking, student study spaces, libraries, face coverings and shields, student communications and measures to keep each other safe.
Face coverings and shields
Read our latest guidance on the use of face coverings and face shields (also called face visors), which has been updated in response to the comments provided to us through the feedback form.
Changes to parking on campus
From today (Monday 7 September), free parking on campus during core hours will come to an end and a temporary permit system will be introduced. If you are working on campus and therefore need a parking permit, or you hold an existing permit, please follow this new parking guidance.
Preparing to welcome students to Leeds
With students starting to arrive in Leeds, it’s important they understand the safety provisions being put in place, and what the campus and learning experience will look like this year. This week, three new videos focused on student experience, our safety measures and learning will be shared with them. For an update on what’s happening on campus and in student communications, read the Preparing to welcome students to Leeds update on For Staff.
Online IT induction
Make the most of the IT facilities at the University with our new online IT induction. Tailored to either staff or students, the induction covers IT essentials, services and corporate and academic systems.
Carers Leeds appointments
If you are a carer for a family member or a friend who has an illness, disability or addiction, Carers Leeds offers confidential telephone appointments providing a wide range of practical advice, support and information to unpaid carers. The next sessions are on Thursday 10 September – email the Equality Policy Unit to book.
2020/21 eNews dates
The eNews copy deadlines and publication dates for the upcoming academic year are now available. Please contact Internal Communications if you have news to share with all colleagues.
Cutting the Cost-co
Receive a £10 Costco voucher when you sign up for individual membership. The offer is available to colleagues until 31 December 2020 and applies to new members only.
New artwork installed on Sir William Henry Bragg Building
Take a look at our newest sculpture, The Worlds of If by Sara Barker. Inspired by the pioneering work of scientists at Leeds, the artwork features shapes, motifs and colours to convey ideas linked to science and engineering – and makes connections to the role of Leeds as a former textile centre and a modern-day creative hub.
Partnership Awards 2020
Read the latest in our series of profiles on the winners of this year’s Partnership Awards. This time we focus on the joint winners of the Supervisor accolade by looking at the achievements of two colleagues who challenge and inspire students to push the boundaries of research.
National Inclusion Week – 28 September to 4 October
Share and promote everyday inclusion during this year’s National Inclusion Week (NIW), which takes place between Monday 28 September and Sunday 4 October. NIW is a chance to share and promote inspiring inclusion practices and activities, with a wide range of online events presented by colleagues and external guests taking place. Details of the programme are available on the Equality Policy Unit website.
Leeds Digital Festival 2020
A record-breaking 294 events are scheduled for the second edition of Leeds Digital Festival 2020 – the largest tech event in the UK celebrating digital culture. As a Premier Sponsor, we have multiple sessions planned as part of the full programme of events running from Monday 21 September to Friday 2 October.
Engagement Excellence Scheme 2020-21
Time is running out to apply for the Engagement Excellence Scheme (EES) for the academic year 2020-21. The EES aims to build capacity and create a network of public engagement/patient and public involvement champions across the University. It is open to colleagues from all faculties, offering support and a bursary for up to six Fellows. Submissions deadline is 5pm on Thursday 10 September.
Farewell message from Sir Alan Langlands
Update on national 2020-21 pay round
Our commitment to managing organisational change
Update your Windows and Office licences
Best practice hub to support welcoming students
This enewsletter is brought to you by the Communications team. You can keep up to date with our latest news on the For Staff website and by following the staff Twitter account.
Send your story or comments on the For Staff website to the Communications team, email internalcomms@leeds.ac.uk or call extension 38562