Working at UEL
Life at the University of East London
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Life at the University of East London
Working at UEL
At the University of East London, we foster a professional, positive, and inclusive work environment built on shared values of Passion, Inclusion, and Courage. Our culture is collaborative and innovative, empowering staff to think differently, make an impact, and contribute to our ambitious Vision 2028 strategy. We are proud to be one of the most diverse universities in the UK, with a strong commitment to staff wellbeing, flexible working, and creating spaces that encourage creativity and growth.
By joining UEL, you’ll be part of a dynamic community that shares success, invests in people, and strives to make a real difference in the lives of our students and the communities we serve.
Employee stories
Discover what our community says about working at UEL.
As part of our 125th anniversary celebrations in 2023, colleagues from across the university shared their favourite things about working at UEL.
We’re powered by employee networks
We’re passionate about creating a workplace where everyone feels like they belong. We celebrate our differences, build diverse teams, and make sure everyone feels valued and included. We understand that you work at your best when you’re free to be yourself. That’s why we’re proud to be ourselves.
- Woman’s Circle: A network for those who identify as women and allies to connect, empower, and grow.
- Race Inclusion & Social Equity (RISE): A forum for racial inclusion and promotion of racial justice at UEL.
- LGBTQ+ Staff Network: A safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ staff and allies.
- Disabilities Network: A network for disabled staff and allies to connect, support, and influence policy.
- Al Noor Network: UEL’s Muslim staff network supporting faith-based inclusion.
- Parents’ Network: A space for working parents and carers to share, support, and thrive together.
Benefits
We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package through our unique Total Reward Deal, which goes beyond salary to include progressive policies on annual leave, health and wellbeing, career development, and flexible working. Our goal is to ensure every colleague feels valued, supported, and equipped to succeed.
Our Total Reward Deal
The Total Reward Deal is our commitment to recognising, rewarding and supporting everyone who contributes to our shared success. It goes beyond pay and benefits to create a holistic offer that supports your wellbeing and development.
The Total Reward Deal is available to University staff, reflecting our belief that everyone who contributes to our mission deserves to share in our success. We continue to evolve and innovate our offer to remain a competitive, caring and values-led employer, one that truly does things differently for the benefit of our people.
Financial wellbeing
Providing compensation and programmes that give you financial peace of mind.
- Competitive compensation reviewed annually
- A generous pension of up to 28.68% for academic staff, and 20% for professional service staff
- An award-winning and sector-leading non-contractual bonus scheme (Shared Success Award)
- Access to our employee discount portal, where you can save on your everyday expenses
- Interest-free season ticket loan
- Relocation assistance (where applicable)
Flexibility and time off
The time you need to recharge, and the flexibility to get your work done.
- Generous annual leave entitlements, plus bank holidays and customary days at Christmas
- Paid time off, including bereavement, jury duty, sick leave, parental leave
- Two paid days off to volunteer each year
- Hybrid work model
- Flexible working policies.
Personal growth and development
Providing room and opportunities to grow – on your own and with your teammates.
- Tuition fee waivers for vocational and academic qualifications that support your role and career development
- Annual ‘University Development Week’ for all our staff dedicated to pausing work and focusing entirely on personal and professional growth
- Free access to LinkedIn Learning
- Fully funded apprenticeship programmes offering qualifications from Level 2 (GCSE) to Level 7 (Master’s)
- Quarterly performance development review conversations
Family support and care
Supporting the people closest to you.
- Maternity and paternity leave
- Carers’ leave
- Adoption leave
- Ordinary parental leave and shared parental leave
- Neonatal care leave
- Parental bereavement leave
Health and wellness
Supporting your wellbeing, so you can live a healthy life at work and beyond.
- Employee assistance programme focused on mental health
- Discounted membership at our state-of-the-art sports facility
- Free eye-care examination every two years
- Healthcare cashback to help cover every day healthcare costs for you and your family
- Trained Mental Health First Aiders available to offer confidential support and guidance to staff in need
- Cycle to work scheme
- A one mile running track around the Docklands campus
- An annual calendar of wellbeing activities throughout the year
UEL extras
Additional benefits to support you
- Give as you earn charitable giving
- Free car parking on our Docklands campus
- Free shuttle bus between campuses
- Overnight accommodation at our Docklands Campus
- Volunteer at University events, including graduation, to connect with our community and build valuable new skills
- Annual staff survey, empowering you to help shape our culture
- Annual award and recognition ceremonies
Learn more about working at UEL
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Careers at UEL
Explore current vacancies, learn about our recruitment process and discover why UEL is a rewarding place to build your career.
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Why join us?
Join a university where you have the freedom and autonomy to make a real impact.
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How to apply
Find out about the application process, and tips on how to put your best foot forwards.
