Governance
The University of Reading operates under the terms of the Royal Charter granted to it in 1926. Three main bodies deliver the governance of the University:
Council
The Council is the University’s executive governing body, meeting at least four times during the academic year. It sets the University’s strategic direction, ensures compliance with statutory requirements and approves constitutional changes. The Council is ultimately responsible for managing the University’s estate, finance and staff, with much of the detailed work falling to sub-committees. Here broad majority representation by lay members, drawn from commercial, community and professional organisations, provides a valuable perspective. The primary responsibilities of the Council are set out in Statute XV, Powers of the Council.
Senate
The Senate is the University’s main academic administrative body. Reporting to the Council and meeting at least four times a year, the Senate advises on areas such as student entry, assessment and awards. With around 100 members, the Senate comprises Deans, Heads and elected representatives of Schools, as well as professional staff and students. University Boards responsible for developments and innovation in research, teaching and learning report to the Senate.
Senior Management Board
The Senior Management Board is responsible for the day-to-day management of the University. Reporting to the Senate, the Board currently consists of the Vice-Chancellor, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, three Pro-Vice-Chancellors, four Deans and the three Heads of Service.
Council and Senate representatives are also members of the University’s Court. This forum brings together individuals and organisations from outside the University, whose links with us make a positive contribution to University life. The Court’s annual meeting provides an opportunity for the Vice-Chancellor to update members on new developments and plays an important role in fostering closer relationships with the wider world.