Academic Probation, Promotion and Progression (from September 2024)

Here at the University of Exeter, we recognise and reward excellence in the work of academic staff in a variety of ways, including through progression and promotions. During the 2022/23 academic year, an extensive review of our academic promotions processes and criteria was undertaken, following the development of Strategy 2030 and the changing needs of the University. Further details of the review can be found on the review webpage

During the review and consultation, we received feedback from academic colleagues who also told us that they wanted the promotions process to be clearer, simpler, flexible, more transparent and inclusive. Below you will find the new documentation associated with the updated academic promotions process.

New appointments to the University of Exeter are subject to a probationary period of twelve months- except Lecturers (E&R) see below. 

E&R Lecturer Probation

The probationary period is an important time for you to develop the skills and competencies you need to be effective and successful. We expect the Exeter Academic to demonstrate that they meet the expectations of a Lecturer within 3 years, which is the standard length of probation for new Lecturers, but it may be possible to confirm your appointment earlier if all the expectations have been achieved.

Academics pursuing a career in Education and Research are expected to achieve professional accreditation by completing the Academic Professional Programme or Aspire.

To enable us to properly assess your contribution at the University of Exeter, the earliest we would assess your suitability for confirmation of appointment would be after one year.

Process

Criteria

Forms

Details about the APP programme can be found here. 

We have developed the following guidance webpages to support those 

Summary of Assessment Guidance

For the 2024/25 process, the supporting statement has been replaced with the Summary of Assessment, below is guidance on how to complete this alongside some examples:

Below is an overview of the deadlines for the 2024/25 promotions round:

Activity

Deadline/Time Period

Discussions with Senior Academic Lead and submission to Head of Department

8 November 2024 – please note this deadline is for guidance only. Your faculty may advise further details of deadlines within your specific faculty.

Faculty Academic Promotions panels for decision on Grade G and recommendations on external review for AP/P

January/early Feb 2025

Promotions to grade F and G take effect

1 March 2025

External Assessments of AP/P applications requested by Central HR

Feb-May 2025

University Academic Promotions Committee review and decision on  AP/P applications

Early July 2025

Promotions for AP/P take effect

1 August 2025