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What are governing instruments?

The University’s regulatory framework include governing instruments which comprise our charter and statutes, ordinances and regulations. Our Royal Charter, established in 1965, sets out our overall constitution and statutes. The statutes are a formal written enactment of our legislative and governing authority and they provide information about how the University operates. Ordinances provide internal legislation and, along with regulations, are the detailed rules under which the University is governed.

Whilst the University is able to make changes to its ordinances and regulations with appropriate consultation, any information or procedure contained within the University charter and statutes can only be amended with the approval of the Privy Council.

A number of other higher education institutions have gained approval from the Privy Council to streamline their regulatory frameworks in recent years.