Are you a PGR/TA? Struggling with low pay, late payment, and juggling jobs? Then join us on 13th August for our PGR brunch!

We will be meeting to get to know one another, problem solve, and collectively prepare for the incoming re-structures in September.

Where? ArtsTwo Senior Common Room (4th floor), Queen Mary Mile End Campus

When? 13th August 2025, 11:00-13:00

Why? Queen Mary’s management have been undertaking stealth redundancies, shrinking the pool of available teaching jobs, and promising to merge various schools beginning September 1st 2025.

On top of this, a recent survey with over 200 respondents reveals that among PGRs and TAs:

  • Only 18.6% have their fees and expenses covered by their grant, with almost 80% needing to make money to cover living expenses and more than 60% relying on paid work at QM.  
  • 40.7% of respondents are also doing unpaid work at QM, with an average of 40 hours per year. 
  • Almost 60% are living on a tight budget with their stipend.
  • 80% of respondents feel that stipends should adjust to London cost of living, and a third of respondents ask for more flexible access to the hardship fund. 

The changes being made in Queen Mary suggest that these conditions are set to get harsher, not easier – but we can push back against it if we come together.

So join us for the first iteration of what will become a regular occasion  – bring your problems and anger, and we’ll bring the food.

Download a pdf of the poster for easy printing and sprucing up PGR rooms!