Staff at University of Sheffield International College back further strike action
All UCU members who took part in the vote backed industrial action
Staff at the University of Sheffield International College have voted to take further strike action over pay and working conditions.
The UCU says 90% of those who participated in the ballot supported strike action, with 100% voting in favour of action short of a strike. The turnout for the vote was 61%.
The dispute centres on staff demands for a 12% pay rise, time marking to be considered part of the working day and on calls for additional paid leave.
The University of Sheffield International College is owned and operated by Study Group.
It offers courses for international students to prepare them for higher education at the University of Sheffield, such as improving English proficiency.
Courses at the college can cost students up to £26,000 per year, with Study Group permitted to use the University of Sheffield branding.
UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: "This overwhelming mandate for action at Sheffield International College is yet another sign that staff will not tolerate attacks on their pay and conditions."
"Our demands are not unreasonable, and the hard-working staff employed by USIC deserve better.
"Instead of pushing their own workforce towards taking industrial action, management needs to work with us to resolve this dispute."
A statement from Study Group reads: "Study Group has now been notified of the results of the recent ballot for industrial action at Sheffield International College. The results of the ballot indicate a vote in favour of strike action."
"Study Group has not yet been notified of potential strike dates although we continue to hope these can be avoided. We are conscientiously working to address the concerns raised through this ballot.
"If strike action does go ahead, we will be in touch directly with our students with details about how they will be supported to avoid detriment to their education."