March 2026 – important update
In December 2025, the University Executive Board took the decision to pause the 2025/26 Academic Promotion and Senior Banding cycle to allow consultation with our recognised trade unions and affected staff on the proposal not to run the cycle this academic year.
Following careful consideration of all feedback received, the University has taken the decision not to run the Academic Promotion and Senior Banding cycle during the 2025/26 academic year.
FAQ’s have been updated in light of the decision to not hold the academic and senior banding cycle for 2025/26.
Promotion enquiries response and FAQs - March 2026
The banding process gives Level 7 academic staff the opportunity to apply to be banded by taking into account the staff individual's career profile and academic framework.
The banding process is applicable to the Level 7 research and teaching (R&T) job family.
Full details of the banding process can be found in the banding guidance.
Key forms and guidance
Timetable for the 2025/2026 banding process
| Activity | Timeline |
|---|
| Email to staff letting them know the deadline for submitting applications |
October 2025 |
| Level 7 banding applications deadline |
12 January 2026 |
| Head of School statements |
31 January 2026 |
| Faculty committee meetings deadline* |
31 March 2026 |
| Data collection ready for University panels |
30 April 2026 |
| Senior banding committee deadline |
31 May 2026 |
| Confirmation of outcomes |
June 2026 |
| Effective date of change |
1 August 2026 |
| * Note: Faculties can hold a local pre-committee prior to the deadline above, but it is not mandatory |
|
Last edited Mar 13, 2026