Strike action called off at Sheffield College after staff agree to pay rise
The UCU has confirmed staff have secured changes to pay and conditions
Last updated 16th Jan 2026
Staff at Sheffield College have called off planned strikes after agreeing to an improved pay deal and commitments to address working conditions.
Strikes were initially planned for Wednesday, Thursday and Friday this week, although walkouts on all three days have now been averted.
The University and College Union (UCU) has confirmed that lecturers and curriculum team leaders will receive a 5% pay increase, with all other staff getting a 4% rise.
The agreement also includes an additional 2% pay increase for all staff, backdated to December 1 2025, building on a 2% rise given in August 2025.
Lecturers will receive an additional 3% backdated to 1st December, providing a total 5% pay rise.
The college has also pledged to adjust working conditions to address the demands of workers.
Seventeen other colleges across England remain in an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions, with strike action scheduled for tomorrow.
UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: "I want to congratulate our members at Sheffield College for winning a pay award that helps bring their salaries into line with their counterparts in schools.
"It is down to the determination and incredible solidarity of our members which shows what can be achieved when workers unionise and stand together.
“To avoid disruption on campus this week, leaders at colleges where we are still in dispute need to make meaningful offers and show they value their staff."
Paul Simpson, Executive Director for People, The Sheffield College, said: “We welcome the resolution to this dispute, which we were committed to achieving.
“We have worked constructively with UCU to reach an outcome that supports our staff, students and the wider college.
“I would like to thank all of our staff for their patience and professionalism during this period.”