What are these staff engagement sessions for?
The sessions are designed to bring colleagues together from across the University of Kent and University of Greenwich to:
- share examples of academic, research, innovation and professional services activity,
- better understand each other’s work and strengths,
- explore opportunities for collaboration, and
- contribute ideas to inform future planning.
This is just the first set of sessions and other opportunities will be available in the next academic year.
Who are the sessions aimed at?
The sessions are open to all staff, and are deliberately inclusive.
Why are the sessions organised into broad thematic groups?
The five academic, research, and innovation themes — Business & Enterprise; STEM; Health; Economics & Social Sciences; Arts, Humanities & Creative Industries — provide a practical way to organise engagement.
This is the same for the professional services sessions - Student support, Estates and Digital support, Central support (e.g. Governance, Finance, People, etc), External Affairs.
They are not intended to map directly onto faculty, school, or directorate structures, and many colleagues’ work will span more than one theme.
Do I need to attend a session at my “home” institution?
We encourage colleagues to take this opportunity to visit the other institution where possible. However, we recognise that time constraints may make this difficult. Staff are therefore welcome to attend the session that best aligns with their interests or area of work, subject to capacity.
If I attend a session away from my “home” institution can I claim travel costs?
For sustainability reasons, we encourage colleagues to make use of the coaches provided. If you choose to travel using your own transport, the standard university expenses policy will apply.
I work at Medway, what bus can I use?
For sessions taking place at the Medway campus, individuals can book the existing campus shuttle.
What will happen during the sessions?
Each session will include:
- a welcome and scene‑setting from senior leaders,
- short showcases from both institutions,
- facilitated networking activities,
- structured discussions focusing on strengths, challenges and opportunities,
- lunch
- an optional campus tour.
What is meant by a “showcase”?
Showcases will highlight examples of strong or distinctive activity from across the institutions. They are intended to:
- stimulate discussion,
- prompt ideas for collaboration, and
- illustrate the breadth and quality of current activity.
They are not intended to be exhaustive and do not signal formal prioritisation.
Will feedback from the sessions be used?
Yes. Themes and insights from the discussions will be captured, synthesised, and used to inform future planning.
Comments will be considered in aggregate and will not be attributed to individuals.
Will attending (or not attending) affect my role or future opportunities?
No. Participation is voluntary and intended to support engagement and dialogue.
I am not available on the dates detailed, will there another opportunity for me to participate?
We recognise that not everyone may be able to attend on the scheduled dates. Depending on demand, we will look to offer additional sessions later and will keep colleagues informed if further options become available.
How should I prepare for the session?
No formal preparation is required. You may find it helpful to:
- reflect on your team’s work and future ambitions,
- think about where collaboration could add value,
- come ready to listen as well as contribute.
What if my work spans more than one theme?
That is expected and welcomed. The thematic groupings are deliberately broad and many areas of activity cut across more than one session. You are welcome to attend more than one session if you wish.
Do I need permission from my line manager to attend?
Senior leaders are fully supportive of the LASE University Group engagement programme and actively encourage colleagues to participate in these sessions as an important part of shaping our shared future.
Colleagues are asked to keep their line manager informed of their intention to attend, so this can be balanced alongside local priorities and day‑to‑day responsibilities.
Who can I contact with questions or suggestions?
For questions about specific sessions, or to suggest showcases or campus tours, please contact Gedminte Mikulenaite at the University of Greenwich or Rachel MacPhee at the University of Kent
