Cardiff University Reverses Decision on Nursing School Closure, 286 Jobs at Risk
In a recent development, Cardiff University has made a U-turn on its decision to close the nursing school, proposing alternative plans to keep it operational but with reduced student intake. The institution had initially announced plans to cut 400 academic positions and shut down several academic schools, including nursing, modern languages, and music, causing widespread opposition.
However, Vice Chancellor Professor Wendy Larner revealed that the proposed academic job losses have now been scaled back to 286, with the threat of redundancy lifted for staff in the schools of maths and chemistry. Despite this reduction, 1,307 full-time posts across the university remain at risk. The revised plan for the nursing school aims to enhance the student experience and ensure a steady supply of well-trained graduates to the NHS.
The alternative proposal for the nursing school includes retaining adult, child, and mental health nursing programs, albeit with smaller student cohorts. The university management is focusing on improving the degree programs to facilitate a smoother progression for students and increase the number of graduates entering the healthcare workforce. However, the acceptance of this proposal is contingent on approval from various stakeholders, including the Welsh Government and healthcare authorities.
While the news of the nursing school’s potential continuation has been met with relief, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Wales expressed concerns about the impact of the proposed staff cuts and course alterations. The RCN highlighted the loss of experienced staff and the need for a sustainable pipeline of nursing graduates to meet the demands of the healthcare sector.
In response to the scaled-back cuts proposal, the Cardiff University branch of the University College Union (UCU) stated that the current measures were insufficient and raised uncertainties about the future. Over 1,000 staff members still face the risk of redundancy, and the UCU warned of potential industrial action if compulsory job losses occur. Although there is hope for the preservation of nursing programs, the UCU stressed the importance of addressing staff concerns and avoiding rushed financial decisions.
The ongoing situation at Cardiff University reflects the challenges faced by educational institutions in balancing financial sustainability with maintaining academic quality and staff welfare. As discussions continue and plans evolve, stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation to safeguard both the educational standards and the livelihoods of university staff.
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