University of Sheffield students have expressed their relief after two weeks of planned staff strikes were cancelled.
The University and College Union (UCU) have ‘paused’ strike action at nearly 150 universities including the University of Sheffield.
This decision was in response to the positive progress made between trade unions and Universities and Colleges Employers Association (UCEA).
Jo Grady, UCU General Secretary, said: “We have reached a point in discussions with our employers where we have made significant progress across a range of issues.”
Students will now have teaching on the planned strike days which were scheduled for February 21-23 and February 27 – March 2.
Students at the University of Sheffield are pleased their teaching will now go ahead following the decision.
Luke Macartney, 20, who studies languages at the University of Sheffield, told ShefNews: “I am finally getting what I’ve paid for. It’s nice to actually have a busy timetable.”
Some students were expecting to miss nearly half of their teaching in the second semester due to the strikes.
Mr Macartney said: “We were told that two of our modules would be postponed until week 5 so I am relieved that the strikes have stopped for the time being.”
Despite the progress, the strikes planned for March 16 – 22 will still go ahead.
“We want to make it absolutely clear that this is simply a pause,” said the UCU.
Various schemes have been created in response to the ongoing action to try and draw attention to the problems of the education system.
‘Reimagining Education’ have been leading talks outside the University of Sheffield Student Union.
Maria Moreno, who leads the Reimagining Education talks, said: “The education we receive is only as good as the teachers can give us.”
The University of Sheffield has reached out to students and have offered any support they may need.
Mary Vincent, vice-president for Education at the University of Sheffield, said: “We continue to do all we can to reduce disruption, but if you have been affected, the University will do everything possible to support your learning and wellbeing.”