Strategic Framework 2018-2030

1. We believe that higher education should be equitable, inclusive and open to all who have the ambition and desire to learn and progress.
2. We ensure, through our teaching and research, that our students learn the theory, have the opportunity to put this into practice and develop the right level of curiosity and behaviours employers are looking for.
3. We inspire self-confidence and personal awareness in our students of what they are capable of, while supporting them to achieve their best.
4. We believe that, while university is a place to achieve qualifications, true transformation comes from the experiences gained and the opportunities explored while doing so.

5. We have talented and motivated staff, who work in a highperformance culture that promotes well-being, diversity and opportunity for all, and are essential in providing the best possible student experience.
6. We develop systems, processes and ways of working which enable our staff to work efficiently and effectively, and ensure we are best placed to build partnerships, seize opportunities and deliver value for money.
7. We operate openly and with transparency in terms of our policies and investments, with decisions on these informed by timely data, insights and intelligence.
8. We empower our staff and students through the use of cutting-edge technology, and safe and secure facilities expertly designed to inspire them to achieve excellence.

9. We understand and embrace our role in raising aspirations, improving skills and adding value to the lives of everyone in our region.
10. We take pride in the achievements of our staff and students, and unashamedly celebrate their successes across the University, the region and beyond.

Our students will benefit from a high quality learning environment, pioneering use of modern learning methods, access to diverse and exciting opportunities, and a continually evolving suite of services and support covering all aspects of their lives.

They will study an industry-relevant and research-informed curriculum shaped in collaboration with partners across business and professions, and in line with global issues and government agendas. This is delivered through industry-connected and research-active academics able to share their experiences and build connections.

Our students will therefore graduate with the skills, knowledge, experience and attributes which enable them to fulfil their ambitions and make a positive contribution to the world. They will set their aspirations high, think beyond the obvious, and have the ingenuity, curiosity and enterprise to succeed in their chosen career path.

As the only university in our city and county we take seriously the responsibility we have to drive the economic, social, cultural, educational and environmental prosperity of our home.

Working with others, and with the full commitment of our staff and students, we will raise aspirations and improve the education, skills, health and well-being of current and future generations across our region. We will play our part in positioning Derby as a key city on the national and international stage, with our academic reputation established as a core element of the ‘Derby story’.

Our research, knowledge creation and innovation is focused on making a practical, positive difference to people’s lives – regionally, nationally and globally. We will further establish ourselves as the preferred partner of choice to provide solutions to social and industrial challenges by delivering academic expertise, knowledge and innovation, alongside students and graduates with the right “I can, and I will” attitude.

We firmly believe in the transformational nature of education and, as a champion of social mobility, will strive to inspire and create opportunities for all across our region and beyond, regardless of age, background or location.

Our ability to offer the broadest range of options from Apprenticeships to Foundation Years, and Short Courses to Postgraduate, means that at every stage of someone’s life or career, there are the tools, resources and opportunities on offer at the University of Derby from which they can benefit.

Our renowned knowledge and innovation in online learning acts as the perfect platform for us to be a pioneer for education in the increasingly technologicallydriven world in which we live. Be it through online, face-to-face or blended teaching, Derby will be at the forefront of the flexible, integrated learning revolution aligned to the needs of learners now and in the future.

Our global outlook will see more international students coming to our university and more opportunities for home students to travel overseas as part of their studies, further enriching their experience.

We enable people to achieve beyond their expectations, which attracts high-performing staff, students with a drive to succeed, and partners who are keen to benefit from our expertise.

We share a collective endeavour to open minds, and encourage and inspire those who come into contact with us.

We trust and support each other to deliver on our promises. We listen and act with integrity to build positive long-lasting partnerships.

We are true ambassadors of our purpose and promises.

We think big and make an impact.

We have passion and ambition, and look for opportunities to stretch and challenge ourselves and others. We evolve through new learning and experiences, and are beacons of good practice.

We are proud of what we do, make ourselves visible, and tell our story in a way that strengthens our global presence.

We create a reputation where our innovation, skills and knowledge are relied upon by industry to fulfil their potential and ensure their future success.

We are modern, seek out and embrace current thinking, and employ innovative practices.

We have a confident and adaptable approach to change, working together to challenge, take the lead and set the pace.

We have determination, knowledge and a positive attitude, keeping engaged in the world around us and staying ahead of the game.

We’re curious, optimistic and strive for excellence.

We create thriving communities where those around us are confident to share their views, celebrate success and are proud of the achievements we make.

We create stimulating environments that transform the prospects of all who engage with us. We believe we all make a difference.