As part of the broader consultation with academic staff undertaken in June–July 2025 on the Academic Career Framework (ACF) and its associated material, the need for a clear and consistent approach to recognising professional experience alongside formal academic qualifications was identified.

The Professional Experience to Academic Qualifications Policy and Procedures have now been finalised and are available on the Academic Career Framework (ACF) Hub.

The Policy establishes clear governance and a consistent decision‑making framework for assessing professional experience and qualifications where these are considered equivalent to standard academic qualifications. It applies across academic career stages and supports transparent and equitable consideration in contexts such as recruitment, performance development, promotion, and teaching and academic oversight roles.

By formally recognising professional experience as a valid pathway to demonstrating equivalence, the Policy directly supports the intent of the Academic Career Framework. It enables a more contemporary and inclusive approach to recognising diverse academic pathways, particularly for staff with strong industry, professional, or clinical backgrounds and experience.

The Policy and Procedures form an important component of the broader Academic Career Framework implementation and complement existing ACF policies, procedures, and guidance materials.

To access the Policy and Procedures, visit the Academic Career Framework Hub or the Policy Library – Recently approved policies.