25 March 2026
The University of Reading has reported a reduction in its gender pay gap, continuing a steady pattern of improvement over the past five years.
Data from 31 March 2025 show the mean average gender pay gap has decreased to 14.3%, from 14.5% the previous year.
The mean figure reduces to 12.9% when Campus Jobs workers are excluded from the data. For almost a decade, the University has offered roles to students that are flexible and help them to earn without compromising their studies. The majority of Campus Jobs workers tend to be female but by their nature, many of the staff employed through this route are in lower paid, flexible or temporary positions.
The median gap has also narrowed to 13.7%, from 16.1% last year.
Professor Elizabeth McCrum, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience) and University Executive Board Champion for Sex Equality, said: “These figures reflect a great deal of sustained work from colleagues across the University, highlighting the impact of ongoing work to strengthen inclusive recruitment and selection practices, and support career development.
“While any reduction in our gender pay gap is encouraging, there is more that can be done. We remain focused on understanding the underlying factors and taking evidence-based action.
“Continued improvement will rely on collaboration and a long-term commitment to change across our community”.
The University is taking some practical steps to identify further actions to help narrow the gender pay gap, including:
We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2027/28 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2026/27 courses.
