Accessibility statement

9. Representation of GTAs and integration into the academic community

Principles: GTAs should have appropriate representation within the department and at higher levels within the University, and have the right to be represented by a trade union. GTAs should be integrated into the professional academic culture within their department.

Departmental representation of GTAs

83. GTAs should be represented on relevant departmental committees, including the Board of Studies. 

University representation of GTAs

84. The Graduate Students’ Association is responsible for representing the views of GTAs at University level, including at University Teaching Committee.

85. GTAs have the right to be an active member of a recognised trade union and to be represented by that union to the University.

Valuing the experience of GTAs

86. GTAs should be included in programme teams and given opportunities, as valued colleagues, to give feedback to the department on the modules and programmes on which they support learning, with a view to helping the department to improve the student experience.

87. GTAs should also be given opportunities to provide feedback, to the department, on their experience as GTAs, including the quality of the training, supervision, and support provided. Departments should ensure that they take action in response to GTA feedback.

88. GTAs should be involved, as partners, in departmental quality assurance and enhancement processes, including module and programme review, Annual Programme Review and Periodic Review. Where appropriate, GTAs should be invited to participate in a department’s Peer Support for Teaching (PST) scheme.

89. GTAs should be invited to, and encouraged to attend, departmental learning and teaching events, such as away days, conferences, and workshops.

90. GTAs are eligible for University teaching awards and departments are encouraged to recognise GTA excellence alongside that of academic staff.