Advancing knowledge. Strengthening the freedoms that make it possible. Research, teaching, and the pursuit of knowledge lie at the heart of university life. Academic freedom and freedom of expression are fundamental to these purposes, enabling ideas to be explored, tested, challenged, and shared. New thinking depends on freedom of expression. We ask all members of our University community to uphold our seven key principles for academic freedom and freedom of expression in teaching and learning. Different perspectives. A shared purpose. Between 2023 and 2026, the University undertook a major programme of work to deepen our understanding of academic freedom and freedom of expression, strengthen their place in university life, and establish more effective ways of supporting them in practice. Our story: 2023-2026 Guidance and support for our community Practical information and resources for staff and students, including legal duties, events and protest, raising concerns, and sources of support. Five interconnected areas of change Freedom of expression at the heart of learning and teaching Embedding shared principles in everyday educational practice. Understanding our community through research Building evidence to inform action and measure change. Strengthening policies Embedding academic freedom and freedom of expression in University policies and practices. Anticipating challenges Strengthening capacity to identify and respond to emerging risks to academic freedom and freedom of expression. Making room for difference Supporting constructive disagreement across different perspectives. This article was published on Thursday 30 May 2024
