Key tools for the supervisory relationship

These principles outline expectations for both supervisors and PGR students and provide a good starting point for discussing your roles in the supervisory relationship.

Read the Principles of PGR Student Supervision

The principles of PGR Student Supervision are a valuable reference tool at any point during a PhD. We particularly recommend that supervisors and PGR students read through these before completing the PGR Student–Supervisor Agreement (see below).

The PGR Student–Supervisor Agreement helps build good relationships from the start by providing a framework for PGRs and Supervisors to discuss and record key topics and makes sure everyone knows what to expect.

The PGR Student–Supervisor Agreement is suitable for both new and established students and covers areas such as project planning, communication, feedback, training and support.

PGR Student-Supervisor Agreement Form (Office document, 80kB)

Guidance documents to help you complete the agreement

The accompanying guidance provides prompts that students and supervisors can use in the first supervision meeting:

• PGR Student-Supervisor Agreement FAQs (Office document, 32kB)
• PGR Student–Supervisor Agreement Guidance (Office document, 97kB)
• PGR Student Supervisor Agreement Guidance (PDF, 241kB)

Sometimes, challenges can arise in the supervision relationship. If things start to break down, it’s important to act early.

Take a look at our guidance on what to do if issues arise.

For PGR students, the Bristol Doctoral College offers in-person and online workshops on managing the supervisory relationship.

Supervisors can view our programme of workshops, training and events designed to support supervisors, their development and practice.

The PGR Code covers University regulations on supervision for PGR students, including how supervisors are appointed and how they support their students. The PGR Code also contains useful information about the academic aspects of PGR study, and is an essential point of reference for both students and supervisors.

There is also some additional guidance provided on topics such as confidentiality and plagiarism.

PGR students have access to student support services on offer at the University. A summary of the support available, including information about training, the academic requirements of doctoral study, and wellbeing support for PGRs, is available at via the support with your research page of our website.

There is also guidance for supervisors on a variety of topics, including non-academic matters, such as setting expectations, supervisory meetings, annual progress monitoring, confidentiality and plagiarism.

For information on supporting your students, including students from a diverse range of backgrounds, and how to signpost your students to further support, please see the supervisor specific pages.

The Bristol Doctoral College also offers a range of workshops and events designed to support supervisors and their development.

Supervisors and PGR students are entitled to take leave, whether it’s a planned break or an unexpected absence. You should keep each other informed about any absences to maintain clear communication and support a smooth working relationship.

Student absence

If a PGR student is taking leave which results in a suspension, it’s important to understand how this may impact their funding (e.g., entitlement to stipend payments) or visa conditions.

Find out more about leave and absence for PGR students.

Supervisor absence

If a supervisor is unavailable for an extended period, the Head of School must ensure the PGR student gets the support they need, including arranging temporary supervision or a new permanent supervisor if necessary.

Find out more about supervisor absence