Proposal paper - International Foundation

You will be aware of the extensive period of due diligence undertaken by the Vice-Chancellor and senior colleagues in determining the future of the International Foundation program. Following a thorough review of all the options, the Vice-Chancellor has determined the following:

  • The Proposal Paper, which was received in June 2012, is approved
  • Newcastle International College (NIC) will provide the equivalent to the International Foundation Program beyond 2013
  • The International Foundation Program based in ELFS will cease
  • The final intake of students accepted into the Program will commence on teach-out in February 2013
  • Existing staff be encouraged to remain with the Program during the teach-out period
  • Discussions occur quickly to confirm staff intentions
  • Associate Professor Fagan action the Implementation Plan included in the Proposal Paper at Clause 8 of that document
  • All relevant staff be informed accordingly and that constructive engagement through appropriate channels occur to implement this determination.

A copy of Clause 8- Implementation Plan, is attached.  To ensure that the implementation actions provided in this Plan are implemented the following will occur:

  • All affected staff will be informed of the implementation timeframe
  • These details will be available on the University website on the Human Resource Services/Employee Relations webpage and will also be included in the publication "In the Loop"
  • During the period early 2013 to 2014 the structure of the International Foundation will change and will move to Newcastle International College. Where appropriate, an assessment of staff placement against roles elsewhere within the University will take place.  This could result in placement or transfer of staff wishing to take this option.  As these changes occur the University will provide affected existing staff with a range of options such as:
    • Redeployment within the University
    • Training and development opportunities to assist redeployment
    • Separation from the organisation through a VSP or  redundancy arrangement
  • Where remaining staff members are found to be excess to requirement they will be notified accordingly
  • The HR case manager for this process is Anne Tigani who may be contracted on 4921 5262 or Anne.Tigani@newcastle.edu.au. In addition affected staff members may wish to contact Paul Munro, 49215278 or Paui.Munro@newcastle.edua.u to explore options and opportunities available
  • Implementation will occur over an extended period and will be completed by 31 December 2013
  • Initially meetings with affected staff will commence, where possible, prior to the Christmas 2012/2013 closedown.