Managing the Marking and Assessment Boycott

Many of you will know about the marking and assessment boycott by some members of staff at Essex who are represented by the union, Essex UCU. The boycott started on 23 May 2022 and relates to concerns about pay, conditions and pensions for staff. The University is having discussions with Essex UCU to see how we can address these concerns, as well as working to ensure that the boycott has as little impact on our students as possible.

I want to assure you that all exams and assessments continue to take place as planned. You should continue to study and prepare for your exams or other assessment that you still have left to take. We understand that some of you may be concerned about the boycott, but please remember that most students will be unaffected.

You do not need to take any action, even if you have been informed that someone you know is taking part in the boycott. We are working hard to identify areas of potential risk and put alternative arrangements in place to address them. Our focus remains on ensuring that your results will be available to you as expected and, where you meet the requirements of your course, you are able to progress to the next stage of study or to graduate as expected.

If for whatever reason you feel you need additional support, our Student Services Hubs are operating in-person, phone, email and live chat facilities and can provide information on our range of mental health and emotional support services. Our Students’ Union Advice service is also available for you.

We hope that you all have a great Jubilee bank holiday weekend and I continue to wish you every success with your studies.