University of Westminster

The University of Westminster is a dynamic international education institution situated in the heart of London.

Home to over 18,000 students from more than 160 countries, the University of Westminster has been voted the most internationally diverse university in the UK (Hotcourses Index 2018) and is ranked 29th in the world for international outlook (Times Education Higher Young University Rankings 2018). Established as Britain's first polytechnic in 1838, we have, from our earliest days, opened our doors to provide educational opportunities to people regardless of their background and supported them on their journey to develop their skills, knowledge and expertise. Through extremely close links in business, professional and academic life within London, as well as overseas, the University remains impactful, adding real value to professional practise through a wide range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Professional and Short courses.

Benefits

Annual leave
You will enjoy a generous annual leave allowance of 35 days per year (pro-rata for part-time colleagues). This is in addition to the statutory bank holidays and University closure days (generally over the Christmas period).
Generous occupational pension scheme
You will automatically become an active member of an occupational pension scheme from the start date of your employment. The University operates three pension schemes. The Teachers Pension Scheme (for Teaching colleagues), Local Government Pension Scheme (for Professional Services colleagues) and University Superannuation scheme USS (For existing members only).
Incremental progression and cost of living
If you are appointed to a grade that is paid on the nationally negotiated salary scale, then every year you should expect your salary to go up by one spine point until you reach the top spine point for your grade. This normally applies even if you have been on maternity, adoption, parental or long-term sick leave in the last 12 months. If you are a member of Senior Staff on our management terms and conditions then your salary will be reviewed annually. The University also reviews cost of living increases on an annual basis. You will normally be paid on 22nd of each month by BACS transfer to your nominated bank account.
Smart and flexible working
We operate a notional 35-hour working week with the actual times of attendance to be arranged with your Line Manager. We recognise that for senior colleagues and those in academic roles it is not appropriate in a professional contract to be specific as to the exact hours of availability for duties; the proportion of time an individual should devote to activities is a matter for professional judgement. Our professional service colleagues are able to take advantage of our commitment to Smart Working where teams have adopted working patterns and principles to support greater flexibility in location supported by technology. A number of supportive policies aid work-life balance and create a family-friendly workplace at the University of Westminster. This includes policies on special leave. We are particularly supportive of parents with young children and those with caring responsibilities. Flexibility may apply to your hours of work, the times that you work and where you work.
Family friendly
The University of Westminster is fully committed to helping working parents balance work and family life wherever this is operationally and financially possible. The University operates a maternity, paternity and adoption leave package which is more favourable than statutory requirements. Other policies in operation include shared parental leave, parental leave and time off for dependants leave.
Learning and development
The University is committed to supporting all colleagues in their personal, professional and career aspirations by providing a range of development opportunities. We foster a culture which encourages you to develop your talent and strengths throughout your journey with us. As part of our lifelong learning culture, it is important for you to engage with our annual Professional, Performance and Development Review (PPDR) Scheme that you and your manager will use to record key performance objectives and ensure you have a personal development plan in place as part of your continued personal development. Colleagues also have the opportunity to develop their skills overseas through colleague exchange and student travel abroad programmes. Find out more on the staff mobility page. All colleagues at the University of Westminster are entitled to use the library facilities across all campuses, as well as borrow books for personal study or leisure.
Health and fitness
We have a wide range of sporting facilities for both colleagues and students, including gyms at Regent Street and Harrow campuses. You will be able to take advantage of reduced monthly and annual membership rates. Employee Helpline: The employee support helpline provides 24-hour access to confidential support and advice. It also provides information on a range of practical issues such as family care, employment, finances, housing, education and health.
Cycle to work
We have an agreement with Cyclescheme Ltd to run an assisted bike purchase scheme for our colleagues. The scheme takes advantage of a tax concession offered by the government and under this agreement, employees who have contracts of employment that outlast the duration of the salary sacrifice (pay back) period can benefit from obtaining a tax-free bike and accessories (eg safety equipment). You must be over 18 years old and have completed your probationary period to be eligible. Colleagues participating in the scheme can expect to save between 33-41% off the high street price of a bike, depending on your individual tax status.
Eye care voucher scheme
All colleagues who use display screen equipment are entitled to free regular eye tests in accordance with the University of Westminster’s eye care voucher scheme.
Season ticket loan
You can take out a loan for the purchase of annual rail, London Underground, London buses or other season tickets.
Give as you earn
We operate a Give as you earn scheme whereby you can choose to make a regular donation to charity each month through payroll. This is a completely tax-free, simple and flexible way for you to support your favourite charity on a regular basis.