About Durham University

How the Strategy was created

The University Strategy 2010-2020 has been developed in stages and in consultation with representatives from many groups across the University. This page outlines the timelines and processes which were undertaken in drafting and finalising our Strategy.

  • Early 2010: Strategy rolled out across the University.
  • October 2009: A full day discussion event was held to bring together all senior leaders/managers within the University to plan for the opportunities and challenges presented by the new University Strategy.
  • September 2009: Strategy approved by Council
  • July 2009: Council considered draft strategy further
  • May 2009: Senate & Council considered the draft strategy
  • Easter Term 2009: The VC, accompanied by a member of SPCU, went to all Boards of Studies and Colleges Board to outline the draft strategy, seek feedback and identify barriers to implementation. The latter helped form the basis of the Strategy Workplan.
  • January 2009: Work-streams reported back to the VC and to UEC on the following:
    1. An overarching aim for their theme
    2. A small number of sub-aims
    3. A series of high-level prioritised objectives
    4. A set of associated KPIs
    1. November 2008 - January 2009: Work-streams were established to take forward the development of  three key themes (Research, Education and Staff & Student Experience) and three cross-cutting areas (Financial Sustainability, Environmental & Social Responsibility and International Engagement). Each work-stream consisted of a member of UEC, senior and junior academics from all three Faculties, central service staff and student representatives as appropriate. Lay members of Council were also  invited to contribute to the work of these groups.
    2. September 2008: At its away day, University Council launched a process to develop the University’s strategy for the next ten years and beyond. Presentations were made by senior staff outlining the key challenges facing the University in the areas of Research. Learning and Teaching, Student Experience, Community Place and Environment and Resources and Support. These presentations enabled Council to identify the high level vision and aspiration for the next 10 years, the key themes that will shape the strategy and to approve the establishment of work-streams to take forward the development of each theme.