Plus, a new Institute of Student Employers survey finds that employers expect AI to reshape rather than replace graduate entry-level roles, and a UCL Policy Lab report argues that higher education's chronic failure to connect with working-class voters is one of the key reasons political leaders keep their distance.

With Joe Cooper, Chief People Officer at University of East London, Aaron Porter, Chair at BPP University, and Livia Scott, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Students should feel safe on campus. So what’s the plan?

Why OfS got the meaning of free speech within the law absolutely wrong

AI isn’t taking graduate’s jobs, but it will reshape entry-level roles

Three reasons why the higher education sector struggles to land its political arguments

Meanwhile a generation of Welsh Labour dominance is set to end under an expanded Senedd and a new electoral system, with Plaid Cymru and Reform UK emerging as the two largest parties – and Plaid pledging a wide-ranging HE review within the first 100 days. Plus David Kernohan has read the judgement in OfS v University of Sussex so you don’t have to.

With Justine Pédussel, President at Stirling University Students' Union, Richard Wyn Jones, Director of the Wales Governance Centre at Cardiff University, David Duncan, University Secretary and Deputy Vice Chancellor at University of Glasgow, Nanw Maelor, Welsh Culture Officer and UMCA President at Aberystwyth Students' Union, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

In Wales and Scotland, students were promised a maintenance floor. The promise is broken.

Plus, new research from King's College London finds that the cost of applying for research grants amounts to thirteen per cent of the value of awards, and the Committee of University Chairs puts a near-final draft of its new governance code out for comment, with more explicit requirements for what boards must and should do.

With Sam Roseveare, Director of Regional and National Policy at the University of Warwick, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Jen Summerton, Operations Director at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Blood, debt, toil, and arrears: why thirty years of policy struggle has left us without the higher education system we deserve

Expensive, time consuming, and unpopular – why is it so hard to end grant funding peer review?

Do the silent middle get to belong in higher education?

CUC Code of Governance – Draft for Public Comment

Plus more than twenty thousand weekend students have been told to pay back maintenance loans they were given in error, and what can UK higher education learn from a week in Iceland?

With Lisa Margaret Gunnarsdóttir, President of the National Union of Icelandic Students, Gary Hughes, Chief Executive at Durham Students' Union, Mack Marshall, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Treating students fairly, on an ongoing basis

The weekend delivery scandal

SUs study tour to Iceland

Plus the government axes popular management apprenticeships, and UKVI's draft proposals for rating international student sponsors go further than many expected.

With Mark Peace, Professor of Innovation in Education at King's College London, Hugh Jones, independent consultant, and Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Group essays? Pull the other one

A blanket removal of funding for level 7 apprenticeships will damage government plans to boost infrastructure

Amber isn’t a buffer zone in the new international RAG system – it’s a ledge

Plus highlights from sessions across the conference, and a tuition fees row that threatens to derail the government's Brexit reset – with the EU pushing for home fee rates for students arriving under a new youth mobility deal.

With Helen King, Director of Learning Innovation, Development and Skills at Bath Spa University, Rosie Birch, Communities Officer at Brighton Students' Union and John Blake, Director at The Post-18 Project, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

An accountability moment is what makes AI work for learning

A tuition fees row could sink the UK’s Brexit reset

Plus the government's new social cohesion strategy and what it means for universities, and Research England's plans for research capital investment funding.

With Lisa Roberts, President and Vice Chancellor at the University of Exeter, Jess Lister, Director of Education at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

What the government’s Social Cohesion Action Plan means for universities and students

Research Capital Investment Fund cuts ahead

The “visa brake” details

Student visa restrictions for four countries

Plus, is transnational education a genuine strategic opportunity or just a quick fix? And the Office for Students announces a new statement of expectations on disability support.

With Chris Husbands, Director at Higher Futures, Helena Vine, Lead Policy Officer for England at the Quality Assurance Agency, Livia Scott, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Students are worried about finding somewhere to live

TNE can be successful when it’s taken on as a strategic agenda, not a quick fix

TNE presents a quality challenge. Here’s how we solve it

International recruitment and TNE are not a straight swap

The international education strategy should promote quality in its TNE objectives as well as export earnings

When TNE goes wrong, it’s students that suffer

TNE on Wonkhe

Preparing for disability regulation shouldn’t mean waiting for disability regulation

Building public connection with research is about more than good communication

OfS announces a set of expectations on disability adjustments and support

Plus there’s cross-national evidence that suggests Britain's shrinking graduate premium is a demand-side problem that cutting courses won't fix, and a new study that finds student mental health services are bigger than ever but the students who need them most can't afford to reach them.

With Mary Curnock Cook CBE, independent educationalist and former Chief Executive of UCAS, Martin Priestley, Head of Education at Mills and Reeve, David Kernohan, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

If the graduate premium is falling, supply-side tinkering won’t bring it back.

Student loan reform is coming. But not without a proper review.

The support paradox is a poverty problem.

Plus the Postgraduate Research Experience Survey (PRES) results are out, and we discuss the potential role of universities in arresting the decline of the high street.

With Rachel Brooks, Professor of Higher Education at University of Oxford, James Dunphy, Chief Executive at Committee of University Chairs, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Who calls the shots when resolving students’ complaints?

The student group claim settles out of court

Postgraduate Research Experience Survey, 2025

Universities have a responsibility for the high street too

Plus what a potential Labour leadership change could mean for higher education, and Reform's threat to withhold funding from Welsh universities over free speech.

With Paul Kett, Group CEO and Vice Chancellor at London South Bank University, Ben Vulliamy, Executive Director at the Association of Heads of University Administration, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Intelligence agencies provide briefings on foreign interference

Jacqui Smith’s secret service

Was there a freedom of speech breach at Bangor?

Now former OfS access tsar John Blake has launched The Post-18 Project, our Wonkhe think tank, by arguing that a review of higher education funding is unavoidable and that a graduate tax should be one of the options. So is the government going to act, or will it be bounced into action?

Plus UKRI has found itself in a perfect comms storm over the future of curiosity-driven research funding, and Michael Salmon sits down with Welsh minister Vikki Howells to discuss the challenges facing tertiary education.

With Ben Ward, CEO at University of Manchester Students' Union, Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, Vikki Howells, Minister for Further and Higher Education in the Senedd and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

The Post-18 Project: A review of higher education funding is inevitable

Five challenges faced by the Welsh tertiary sector

Maybe a graduate tax wasn’t such a bad idea after all

Welsh higher education is running out of wriggle room

Wales refuses to implement Westminster’s stealth graduate tax raid

Who should pay for our failing student loan system?

With UCAS reporting a 4.8 per cent increase in applications at the January deadline, driven largely by a demographic peak in 18-year-olds, we explore whether this represents a genuine resurgence in demand or a temporary population effect.

Plus we discuss new evidence on disabled students’ experiences in higher education, including concerns that pandemic-era accessibility is being rolled back, and the implications of the Medical Training (Prioritisation) Bill — from pressure on NHS training places to uncertainty for students studying medicine abroad through UK-linked programmes.

And Jim Dickinson is is in Canada with Wonkhe's Editor Debbie McVitty taking to Canadian HE expert Alex Usher.

With Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief, Wonkhe, Alex Stanley, Vice President for Higher Education at the National Union of Students, Dani Payne, Head of Education and Social Mobility at the Social Market Foundation, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief, Wonkhe.

Plus the latest UCAS end of cycle data and what it reveals about entry qualifications at high tariff providers, and a new NUS campaign on student maintenance that’s turning the spotlight on parents.

With Mike Ratcliffe, Senior Advisor at UWE Bristol, Richard Brabner, Visiting Professor of Civic Engagement at Newcastle University, Jen Summerton, Operations Director at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

UCAS End of Cycle, 2025: access and participation

UCAS End of Cycle, 2025: provider recruitment strategies

Graduates are paying more and getting less

A new international education strategy

Plus Scotland's budget settlement and legislative changes, and unpacking what "Mickey Mouse courses" really means.

With Andy Long, Vice Chancellor at Northumbria University, Jess Lister, Director of Education at Public First, and Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

41 per cent of Reform-voting undergraduates don’t think Reform should be allowed to speak on campus

So you’ve been accused of harbouring “Mickey Mouse” courses at your institution… now what?

Identifying “mickey mouse” courses

Scottish Budget 2026 to 2027

With Abi Taylor, President at Durham SU, Gary Hughes, CEO at Durham SU, Mack Marshall, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Re-associating with Erasmus+ is only the first step

Student Finance (Review of Payment Schedules)

Rhineland Study Tour blogs

Plus we discuss the government’s crackdown on franchised higher education provision and student loan eligibility, and we look back at the defining moments of 2025 in higher education policy – from regulation and finance to admissions, academic freedom and research – and consider what they might signal for universities in 2026 and beyond.

With Steph Harris, Director of Policy at Universities UK, Andy Westwood, Professor of Public Policy, Government and Business at the University of Manchester, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

On the site:

Re-thinking research support for English universities: Research England’s programme of work during the REF 2029 pause

Everything you need to know about REF 2029

Study a Bachelors DEGREE without paying a single penny? You’re on

Weekend courses can’t get student loans

Sub-contractual providers need to register with OfS

You can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music, Spotify, Acast, Amazon Music, Deezer, RadioPublic, Podchaser, Castbox, Player FM, Stitcher,

Plus we explore the financial strategies universities in England are adopting in response to mounting pressures, and what does a more ambitious civic university agenda look like in 2025?

With James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Jo Heaton-Marriott, Managing Director at the Authentic Partnership, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First and hosted by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

The end of pretend – AI and the case for universities of formation

High quality learning means developing and upskilling educators on the pedagogy of AI

Counting the cost of financial challenges in English higher education

Civic 2.0 – the civic university agenda but with sustainable impact

We discuss what the package tells us about the government’s approach to public finances, the politics of international recruitment, and the sustainability of cross-subsidy in a tight fiscal environment for higher education.

Plus we discuss research and innovation announcements and get across debate in Holyrood on the Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance) (Scotland) Bill.

With Ken Sloan, Vice-Chancellor and CEO at Harper Adams University, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Budget 2025 for universities and students

Universities now need to be much clearer about the total cost of a course

Student finance changes in the budget – Director’s cut

Reclassification ghosts and jam tomorrow at stage 2 of Scotland’s tertiary bill

A government running out of road still sets the economic weather for higher education

A change in approach means research may never be the same again

Plus we discuss Skills England’s new guidance on local skills improvement plans – and the move to place higher education, up to postgraduate level, at the heart of local skills ecosystems – and a new study of student working lives that reveals how paid employment alongside full-time study is reshaping participation, wellbeing, and outcomes.

With Sam Roseveare, Director of Regional and National Policy at University of Warwick, Alex Favier, Director at Favier Ltd, Jen Summerton, Operations Director at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Labour takes steps to bring higher education and local skills closer together

Long hours and poor working conditions hit students’ outcomes hard

The surprising pragmatism of Reform UK voters towards international education

Higher education’s civic role has never been more important to get right

Plus we discuss university governance and our new paper for the Post-18 Project, and we capture the vibes from our event, from the best quotes to the big debates shaping the sector’s future.

With Alistair Jarvis, Chief Executive at Advance HE, Janet Lord, Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor for Education at Manchester Metropolitan University, and Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe – and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Sutton Trust: Degrees of Difference

OfS: Director for Fair Access and Participation steps down from regulator

Earning the license: How to reform university governance in the UK

Plus we discuss the government’s response to the Francis review of curriculum and assessment in England, and the Welsh government’s plan to lift the undergraduate fee cap in 2026–27 to align with England with a 2 per cent uplift to student support.

With Alex Stanley, Vice President for Higher Education of the National Union of Students, Michelle Morgan, Dean of Students at the University of East London, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Algorithms aren’t the problem. It’s the classification system they support

The Office for Students steps on to shaky ground in an attempt to regulate academic standards

Universities in England can’t ignore the curriculum (and students) that are coming

Diamond’s a distant memory as Wales plays inflation games with fees and maintenance

What we still need to talk about when it comes to the LLE

Plus we discuss the housing crunch – the new Renters’ Rights Act, warnings on missed housebuilding targets, and what a forthcoming statement of expectations on student accommodation could require of providers working with local authorities. And we explore employability insights from new research – the language gap between university “attributes” and real job adverts, and how to recognise skills students gain beyond the curriculum.

With Ben Ward, CEO at the University of Manchester Students’ Union, Johnny Rich, Chief Executive at the Engineering Professors’ Council and Push, Livia Scott, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Student accommodation – a tale of two cities, and 2point4 students

The Renters’ Rights Act is out of the oven, but the student housing market is still cooked

Shared Institutions: The public’s view on the role of universities in national and local life / More in Common and UCL Policy Lab

AGCAS: Uncovering Skills

Employability: degrees of value / Johnny Rich

We ask whether these levers add up – will automatic indexation and selective controls actually stabilise university finances while widening opportunity, or do TEF-conditioned fee rises, classroom-based foundation year limits, and OfS expansion risk new “cold spots”, tighter choice, and a tougher deal on student maintenance?

Plus we discuss the proposed international student levy and quid-pro-quo on quality; tougher franchising rules and agent oversight; a “statement of expectations” on student accommodation; governance and TPS pressures; and much much more.

With Debbie McVitty, Editor, Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor, Wonkhe, Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor, Wonkhe, Michael Salmon, News Editor, Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief, Wonkhe.

What is in the post-16 education and skills white paper for higher education?

Plus we discuss new Office for Students’ data on subcontracted (franchised) provision showing weaker continuation, completion and progression outcomes relative to sector averages, and assess the Institute of Student Employers’ latest survey, with graduate hiring down overall but highly variable by sector amid persistently high applications per vacancy.

With Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, Sarah Cowan, Head of Policy (Higher Education and Research) at the British Academy, Sarah Stevens, Director of Strategy at the Russell Group and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Universities Wales election manifesto

Outcomes data for subcontracted provision

Graduate jobs and recruitment reality

Plus the Prime Minister is leading a trade delegation to India alongside sector leaders, we explore the growing opportunities in transnational education and ask whether UK universities are ready for a TNE surge – and at Conservative Party Conference, Kemi Badenoch announces plans to slash student numbers and redirect funding.

With Jess Lister, Director (Education) at Public First, Liz Hutchinson, Chief Executive at London Higher, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and hosted by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

OfS rebalances the free speech/harassment see-saw on antisemitism

Conservatives have a poor quality higher education policy

A TNE policy primer for anyone seeking new funding streams

We also get into the surprise return of targeted maintenance grants – funded controversially by the levy on international student fees, and we reflect on the wider political atmosphere at the conference – from policy signals to sector perceptions, and what all this might tell us about Labour’s emerging offer and forthcoming White Paper.

With Gary Hughes, Chief Executive at Durham Students’ Union, Eve Alcock, Director of Public Affairs at QAA, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and hosted by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

The PM’s announcement on higher level participation is a win for the HE sector

The fifty per cent participation target is no more. Again.

Grants return, the levy stays

Maybe the levy just moves money to where it’s needed most

The Augar review is back, baby. Just don’t about talk yourself

Students are being othered again – and everyone loses out

Have universities got the capacity and cash to respond to the government’s agenda?

How much should the new maintenance grant be?

Universities should be central to rebuilding communities

Students are working harder than ever – because they have to

I have a lot of questions about the LLE

Who’s ready for a debate at 930am on a Sunday?

The education policy trap: will the Augar review avoid the mistakes of the past?

Plus we discuss the politics and potential consequences of a proposed levy on international student fees – a policy idea that could reshape funding, recruitment, and the UK’s global competitiveness. And we take stock of warnings from the Institute of Physics about possible closures of departments and courses, asking what this says about funding for high-cost subjects and the sector’s capacity to manage contraction and change.

With Charlotte Corrish, Head of Public Policy at the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education, Mark Bennett, Vice President Research and Insight at Keystone Education Group, and David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

The “regulatory burden” on sexual misconduct needs to lift the weight from students

What OfS’ data on harassment and sexual misconduct doesn’t tell us

IOP: Quarter of UK university physics departments risk closure as funding crisis bites

Public First: Counting the cost – Modelling the economic impact of a potential levy on international student fees

Plus we discuss the government's long-awaited "Hillsborough law" as the Public Office (Accountability) Bill imposes new duties of candour on universities, and examine the machinery of government changes that have seen apprenticeships policy and Skills England transferred from the Department for Education to Pat McFadden's expanded Department for Work and Pensions.

With Andrea Turley, Partner at KPMG, Shane Chowen, Editor at FE Week, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

TEF6: the incredible machine takes over quality assurance regulation

Reputation versus sunlight – universities and the new duty of candour

What Ofsted inspections reveal about university leadership and culture

A machinery of government muddle over skills

The former student leaders entering Parliament

With a memorandum of understanding signed and contracts expected by Christmas, this "super university" is being hailed as a potential blueprint for sector transformation. But what does this new multi-university model really mean for students, staff, and the future of higher education consolidation?

Plus we discuss the recent government reshuffle and its implications for the sector, as Angela Rayner's departure triggers ministerial changes across departments with direct links to higher education – from Liz Kendall's appointment as Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology to questions about skills policy under Pat McFadden's expanded brief at the newly configured Department for Work and Pensions.

With Ben Vulliamy, Executive Director at the Association of Heads of University Administration, Emma Maslin, Senior Policy and Research Officer at AMOSSHE, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

The first multi-university group arrives

Back to the future for the TEF? Back to school for OfS?

The former student leaders entering Parliament

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With the post-16 education white paper still pending and rumours swirling about tuition fee increases and international student levies, what does the year ahead hold for universities already struggling with funding pressures?

Plus we discuss the latest crackdown on international students as 130,000 are warned about visa overstaying and further restrictions on dependants loom, and ask whether new governance recommendations – from paying board members to live-streaming meetings – can restore confidence in university leadership after high-profile failures.

With Anton Muscatelli, Principal at University of Glasgow, Dani Payne, Head of Education and Social Mobility at the Social Market Foundation, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Retry

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Plus we discuss new figures from UCAS that show a record number of 18-year-olds applying to university, and we look at a major new report on how provider closures are affecting students, and what the sector should do next to avoid chaos when courses collapse.

With Hillary Gyebi-Ababio, Head of Public Affairs at Jisc, Hugh Jones, independent consultant and higher education postcard maestro, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

You can subscribe to the podcast on Acast, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, RadioPublic, Podchaser, Castbox, Player FM, Stitcher, TuneIn, Luminary or via your favourite app with the RSS feed.

UCAS applications and offer making by June deadline, 2025

Student protection through market exit is not a compliance exercise

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Could enshrining ten student rights into law and splitting faculties into research and applied institutions finally address the sector’s longstanding challenges?

Plus we discuss Labour’s vision for the Lifelong Learning Entitlement as key details emerge on modular provision and approval processes, and ask whether universities are really retreating from their civic commitments as funding cuts bite.

Doing better, getting better: Getting a grip on the full-time student experience

The LLE finally gets a Labour overhaul

To make real progress on widening participation in higher education, we need a new mission

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Are universities really "selling immigration not education," and what would raising English language requirements to advanced level mean for the sector?

Plus we discuss what incoming student leaders are promising in their manifestos – from subsidised laundry to lecture materials uploaded in advance – and ask whether the new metascience unit can deliver on its promise of a more efficient and transparent research funding system.

With Duncan Ivison, President and Vice Chancellor at the University of Manchester, Vicki Stott, Chief Executive at the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

The attack lines on international students are built on shaky foundations – but won’t go away that easily

Should students’ unions reach for the stars?

Metascience comes of age

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Will the plans finally integrate universities into the UK’s economic future, or is this another case of policy promises outpacing delivery?

Plus we discuss the franchising scandal and the damning case for urgent reform, and ask whether new research on social mobility challenges the sector’s claims about access, aspiration, and advancement.

With Katie Normington, Vice Chancellor at De Montfort University, Johnny Rich, Chief Executive at the Engineering Professors’ Council and Push, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Higher education and the industrial strategy priority areas

The cashpoint campus comeback franchising, fraud, and the failure to learn from the FE experience

On the move: how young people’s mobility responds to and reinforces geographical inequalities

Inequalities in Access to Professional Occupations

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Plus we discuss outgoing UKRI chief Ottoline Leyser's stark warning about "inevitable consolidation" in university research.

With Mark Peace, Professor of Innovation in Education at King's College London, Arti Saraswat, Senior Policy Manager for Higher Education at the Association of Colleges, Livia Scott, Partnerships Coordinator at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Will guidance on freedom of speech help the staff who fear physical attack for expressing their views?

Prevent data, 2023-24

We need a better quality of conversation about education and the skills agenda for the screen industries

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Plus we discuss the Post-18 Project's call to fundamentally reshape HE policy away from market competition, the startling new REF rules, and the striking rise in student term-time working revealed by the latest Student Academic Experience Survey.

With Stephanie Harris, Director of Policy at Universities UK, Ben Vulliamy, Executive Director at the Association of Heads of University Administration, Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Tooling up: Building a new economic mission for higher education

Investing for the long term often loses out to pensioner power

What’s in the spending review for higher education

The student experience is beyond breaking point

How to assess anxious, time-poor students in a mass age

REF is about institutions not individuals

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Plus we discuss Research England's new EDI action plan, and explore whether the UK's rapid three-year degree model is harming student wellbeing and learning outcomes.

With Rille Raaper, Associate Professor in Sociology of Higher Education at Durham University, Jess Lister, Director (Education) at Public First, Mack Marshall, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe SUs, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Our drop-out and pace miracle is harming students’ health and learning

Universities UK’s new era of collaboration

Fixing the potholes in postgraduate funding

The spending review is a critical moment for UK science and innovation

There are better politics, big ideas, and future trade-offs in Research England’s new EDI action plan

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Plus we discuss the government's decision to axe level 7 apprenticeships from levy funding, and explore incoming OfS chair Edward Peck's ten trends shaping the future of campus universities.

With Alex Stanley, Vice President for Higher Education at the National Union of Students, Pam Macpherson Barrett, Head of Policy and Regulation at the University of Leeds, David Kernohan, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Poor quality teaching and student outcomes. But where?

The new OfS chair identifies ten trends

A code of ethical university governance is overdue

Should governance reform be horizontal or vertical?

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When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit http://www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.

Plus we discuss the independent review of student suicides, and explore new research on widening participation and regional disparities.

With Shân Wareing, Vice Chancellor at Middlesex University, Richard Brabner, Executive Chair at the UPP Foundation, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Why not take a risk-based approach to discrimination or harassment on campus?

Whatuni Student Choice Awards

For those in HE cold spots, higher education isn’t presenting as a good bet

A review of student suicides suggests that standards are now necessary

What have coroner’s reports said about student suicide?

A brutal budget for strategic priorities from the Department for Education

Why are we so embarrassed about Erasmus?

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We also discuss Skills Minister Jacqui Smith’s Telegraph op-ed criticizing universities for "losing sight of their responsibility to protect public money" – are her concerns reasonable?

With Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Roscoe Hastings, Director of Teaching Excellence and Student Experience at the University of Exeter, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson.

Everything in the immigration white paper for higher education

There are lots of ways to be more transparent about university finances

Lessons from innovating in our student support model

Euro visions: A playbook to fight the populists in the Netherlands

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With Paul Greatrix, higher education expert and former registrar at the University of Nottingham, Graeme Atherton, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Regional Engagement at the University of West London, Livia Scott, Partnerships Coordinator at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

OfS continues to sound the alarm on the financial sustainability of English higher education

Plotting VC pay against OfS progression

Are there secret government bailouts?

Survey shows how the sector is cutting spending

Hard raindrops keep falling on my head

With the power of knowledge – for the world

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Plus we look at concerning new Wonkhe and Cibyl polling on student health, and we examine how international student policies have become political battlegrounds in global elections.

With Chris Shelley, Director of Student Experience at Queen Mary University of London, Rachel MacSween, Director of Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement (UK and Europe) at IDP, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Dundee: An alternative pathway to financial recovery, Scottish Government statement

Latest from Belong – students’ health is not OK, and that’s not OK

Canada: The Deeper Meaning of Election 2025

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With Khadiza Hossein, VP Education at UWE SU, Emillia Zirker, Student Representation Officer at Lincoln SU, Gary Hughes, CEO at Durham SU, Mack Marshall, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and hosted by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Those who fight don’t always win, but those who don’t fight always lose

Students should be co-authors of their education

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We hear from student officers, sector experts, and campaigners on everything from the myth of the full-time model, to the pressures of placements, to the problems faced by international students. There’s testimony from nursing students, fire from SU officers challenging tokenistic consultation, and reflections on race, identity, and institutional indifference. Plus we zoom out to explore commuter challenges, disabled students, student cities and the global call for student solidarity.

Hosted by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus we look at the collapse of the Advanced Business Academy (ABA) and its aftermath, as an Office for Students (OfS) investigation uncovers serious concerns about student placements and course delivery. And we examine new research on widening participation “cold spots” and the stark disparities in teachers’ expectations for students based on geography and school ratings.

With Mary Curnock Cook, non-executive in education and edtech, Pete Quinn, inclusion consultant, Mack Marshall, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus we examine what Bridget Phillipson has called "one of the biggest financial scandals universities have faced" – franchising. Does the affair point signal a shift towards a more “planned” system?

With Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive at Universities UK, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Sussex fined almost £600k over free speech

\So are universities allowed to chill misogyny or not?

The franchise problem may not have a quick answer

Welcome to the walk-in degree

What is the franchising boom doing to drop-out?

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Plus there’s clips, highlights and reflections from our Secret life of Students event in London - where we’ve been discussing student health, students at work, what students learn, student cities, the time crunch that prevents meaningful engagement and what universities can do to “make the space” to innovate in the student interest.

With Jimena Alamo, President at University of Bath Students’ Union, Mark Peace, Professor of Innovation in Education at King's College London, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Additional £10m funding from the Scottish Government

Breaking out of Borgentown – the case for hope in higher education

You can’t change the design of a plane while it’s in flight

The SU University of Bath - Together we shape tomorrow

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Plus there’s new analysis on how graduates’ importance to the government’s industrial strategy, and we take a closer look at the inequalities baked into student maintenance support.

With Julian Gravatt, Deputy Chief Executive at the Association of Colleges, Janice Kay, Director at Higher Futures, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Update on Freedom of Speech Act.

New analysis shows that graduates will be key to government’s industrial strategy.

Beware the great unbundling implied in the LLE.

Why do we punish low-income students for entering education?

A proper review of student maintenance is now long overdue.

How much are we paying to (for) students?

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Meanwhile, as the Employment Rights Bill sees significant amendments, we unpack what proposed changes to zero-hours contracts and industrial action rules could mean for universities and students. And with the policy spotlight shifting from “knowledge” to “skills,” we’re asking—where do universities fit into the UK's economic vision?

With Brooke Storer-Church, CEO at GuildHE, Neil Mackenzie, CEO at Leeds Beckett Students’ Union, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and hosted by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Edward Peck’s performance at the Education Committee

How R&D creates new skills and can jump start the economy

Policy change can help manage the demand for graduate knowledge and skills

The case against impartial university teaching

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Meanwhile, a new report reveals a dramatic rise in student use of generative AI, and as speculation swirls over potential changes to post-study work visas, the sector braces for further uncertainty in international student recruitment.

With Mark Bennett, Director (Audience & Insight) at FindAUniversity, Sarah Cowan, Head of Policy (Higher Education and Research) at the British Academy,, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Preferred candidate to lead Office for Students confirmed

The UK-Ukraine 100 year partnership and its commitment to educational leadership

Boom and bust – but still whopping

The Home Office has its eyes on post-study work numbers

HEPI/Kortext AI survey shows explosive increase in the use of generative AI tools by students

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Meanwhile, new research reveals student mental health difficulties have tripled in the past seven years, and Universities UK warns that OfS’ new strategy risks expanding regulatory burden rather than focusing on priorities.

With Andy Westwood, Professor of Public Policy at the University of Manchester, Emma Maslin, Senior Policy and Research Officer at AMOSSHE, Livia Scott, Partnerships Coordinator at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

The government’s in a pickle over fees and funding

As the cuts rain down in Wales, whatever happened to learner protection?

Partnership and promises are not incompatible

Student mental health difficulties are on the rise, and so are inequalities

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With Shitij Kapur, Vice Chancellor and President at King's College London, Jess Lister, Director (Education) at Public First, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Universities UK submits to spending review

The barriers that must be removed for degree apprenticeships to meet NHS workforce targets

Higher education institutions have invested time, effort and money in level 7 apprenticeships

Societies that are humane are thoughtful about promoting equality, diversity and inclusion

Predictably bad education

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Plus a Lords committee says UK visa policy for scientists and researchers is an “act of national self-harm”, and we’ve launched a new article series on commuter students.

With Omar Khan, Chief Executive at TASO, Charlotte Corrish, Head of Public Policy at the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkh and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

This week on the podcast OfS is introducing new protections for some students - but will they come fast enough and who will they apply to? Plus a Lords committee says UK visa policy for scientists and researchers is an “act of national self-harm”, and we’ve launched a new article series on commuter students.

With Omar Khan, Chief Executive at TASO, Charlotte Corrish, Head of Public Policy at the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkh and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Fairness and protection for students is coming – but not for those that need it now

Shaping higher education for commuter students

Filling their boots? The rationale for growing loss-making home student numbers

Honesty and accuracy is about to get even more important

Flow - Official Trailer

OIA- Student transfers

Another way of thinking about the national assessment of people, culture, and environment

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Plus UCAS end of cycle applications data has arrived, there’s a new report on the campus encampments, and there’s data futures news to get across.

With Alex Stanley, Vice President for Higher Education at the National Union of Students, Eve Alcock, Director of Public Affairs at the Quality Assurance Agency, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe. 

An early look at 2023–24 financial returns shows providers working hard to balance the books.

Lessons for leaders from the campus encampments.

UCAS End of Cycle provider data, 2024.

Data futures, reviewed.

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Plus new HESA data shows a dramatic rise in international students, there’s a new survey out on students and sex, and David Kernohan reads the Lifelong Learning Higher Education Fee Limits bill so you don’t have to.

With Helen O’Sullivan, Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost at the University of Chester, Johnny Rich, CEO at the Engineering Professors’ Council, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s changes afoot in Scotland, UKVI is cracking down on attendance for international students and students are still feeling the pinch financially - is a return to maintenance grants a lost possibility?

With Ben Vulliamy, Executive Director at the Association of Heads of University Administration, Dani Payne, Senior Researcher at the Social Market Foundation, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Jacqui Smith rules out (much) more money while her department assesses the impacts

The Scottish government wants its own post-study work offer

A new funding body landscape emerges in Scotland

UKVI is tightening the rules on international student attendance

Higher education should lift students out of poverty – not trap them within it

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With Clare Marchant, Chief Executive at UCAS, Amatey Doku, Consultant at Moorhouse Consulting, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s a report on more resilient and sustainable higher education finances, and NEON has been looking at regional inequality in university admissions.

With Richard Sykes, Partner at Mills & Reeve, Paul Greatrix, HE expert and until recently Registrar at the University of Nottingham, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Bridget Phillipson reaffirms commitment to free speech

Resolving the tensions in campus culture requires leadership from within

Connect more: creating the conditions for a more resilient and sustainable HE sector in England

New NEON research shows widening regional inequalities in university admission for poorer students

Widening access needs more flexibility

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With Mary Stuart, Director of Leadership Development at Minerva, Andy Westwood, Professor of Government Practice at the University of Manchester, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus Disabled Students UK has its access insights survey out, and we discuss changes to the Renter's Rights Bill.

With Katie Jackson, Faculty of Humanities Officer at the University of Manchester SU, Seán Keaney, Academic Officer at University of Limerick Student Life, Gary Hughes, CEO at Durham SU, Mack Marshall, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

On Day -1 of this year’s magical mystery tour around Europe and students, the team come across plenty of protests for democracy, on Day 0 of the tour we find students in the centre of both the past and the future for Hungary, on Day 1 the team put down some roots and build some belonging at camp, on the second evening the team try to work out if they have enough points for a dorm in Slovakia, and on Day 2 the team get community building and pot roasting.

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With India Ellis, President at Lancaster SU, Alexander Robinson, President at the SU Bath University, Gary Hughes, CEO at Durham SU and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Alex Usher and his team chat international students, student mental health, predictions for 2023 and the collapse of a university - and how to avoid it happening again both in Canada and in the UK.

With Alex Usher, President at Higher Education Strategy Associates, Tiffany McLennon, Research Analyst at HESA, Jonathan McQuarrie, Manager Academic Planning at HESA, Mike Ratcliffe, academic registrar and sector historian and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Alex Usher’s One Thought to Start Your Day blog

Alex’s commentary on Laurentian University

The Walrus: The Shadowy Business of International Education

Wonk Corner: A crackdown is likely still coming on international students

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With Adam Matthews, Senior Research Fellow at the School of Education at the University of Birmingham, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe.

Higher Education Policy into Practice (Online) PGCert

Writing for Wonkhe

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With Shahid Omer, Director of Policy at Universities UK, Diana Beech, Chief Executive Officer at London Higher, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe. And keep an ear out over the break for a special edition of the show.

Latest from Belong – students are earning, but what are we learning?

Every student on every placement should be paid for their labour

The realities of student transfer

The OIA rides to the rescue on university restructures

Complex and insufficient – Scottish student income doesn’t match the expenditure

The Office for Students’ proposed new strategy for 2025–30

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Plus we talk research assessment, PGR supervision, and Disabled students - and there’s a bonus Wonkhe Christmas song at the end too.

With Pete Quinn, inclusion consultant, Michelle Morgan, Dean of Students at the University of East London, David Kernohan, Acting Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Beccy Freeman, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) at University of Warwick, Jonathan Grant, Director at Different Angles, Livia Scott, Partnerships Coordinator at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

File on 4: The International Student Scandal

We need to look at representation ratios as well as awarding gaps

Hate to say we told you so

It’s time for a legislative response to student suicide

Another brutal budget in Scotland – for universities and students

Wales ditches Diamond and robs students to pay universities

OfS temporarily closes entry to the register

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Plus Gordon Brown’s review of devolution has implications for HE, and we wonder whether Chat-GPT will kill the essay as an assessment tactic.

With Nicola Dandridge, Professor of Practice in Higher Education Policy at University of Bristol, Jonathan Grant, Director at Different Angles, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Shane Chowen, Editor at FE Week, Roscoe Hastings, Director of Teaching Excellence and Enhancement at University of Exeter, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, MIke Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Getting Britain Working (except for students, as usual)

How skills, careers, and industrial policy fit together

A higher education transformation fund would catalyse university reform

Another year, another PTES

World Skills

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Plus we chat China amid growing concerns about the superpoower’s relationship with HE, this year’s PTES suggests rapid expansion might need more careful management, and HESA is helping us understand brain drain.

With Lucy Van Essen-Fishman, Lead Policy and Research Analyst in Data and Innovation at HESA, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Gavan Conlon, leader of the Education and Labour Market teams at London Economics, Sally Burtonshaw, Director of the Education Practice at Public First, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Do we need a league table of scholars produced by Silicon Valley?

There are cold spots in arts, humanities, and social sciences provision

Is it reasonable to expect higher education institutions to be more business-like?

Governing bodies need to prepare and plan now for a different future

VAT is not always the barrier to shared services that it is thought to be

Universities need a plan to manage future HE provision. So does the government

The regulator does not have a handle on the financial state of English higher education

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Plus Rishi Sunak declares the UK an innovation nation, strikes have begun across the sector, and Hidden History looks back at the end of the binary divide between universities and polytechnics in 1992.

With Richard Brabner, Director at the UPP Foundation, Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, academic registrar and sector historian, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Vicki Stott, Chief Executive Officer at the Quality Assurance Agency, Alistair Jarvis, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Partnerships and Governance) at the University of London, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Alex Usher’s One Thought to Start Your Day

How to better understand students’ sense of belonging

Universities may be a priority for reform but they are not a priority for investment

Some providers are cutting financial support for students – with OfS’ blessing

Access and participation planning gains a regional dimension

Bridget Phillipson has set out the government’s priorities for HE reform

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New minister Robert Halfon has set out his priorities in the role. Plus there’s a Plan B for research, some new equality data and DK reviews the Chancellor’s autumn statement.

With Osama Khan, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Academic at University of Surrey, Jenny Shaw, Higher Education External Engagement Director at Unite Students, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Acting Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus the government is on a “renewed drive for efficiency” in universities, and we consider the implications of the results of the US Election.

With Brooke Storer-Church, Chief Executive Officer at GuildHE, Johnny Rich, Chief Executive at the Engineering Professors’​ Council and Push, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

• Bridget Phillipson increases fees by 3.1 per cent
• An increase in maintenance loans gets blunted by fiscal drag
• Fees are going up to £9,535. Or are they?
• Seizing the current policy moment – from cost-savings to radical efficiency
• Collaboration is already baked in to the sector, and we need to see more of it
• Deeper collaboration key to securing the future of UK higher education

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With Debbie Holley, Professor Of Learning Innovation at Bournemouth University, Ursula Kelly, Director at Viewforth Consulting, David Kernohan, Acting Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar and sector historian, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Andy Westwood, Professor of Public Policy, Government and Business at the University of Manchester, Mary Curnock Cook, serial sector non-exec and former UCAS CEO, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Everything in the Budget for higher education

Student bus travel should be free

More consumer rights cases emerge from OfS and NTS

The minimum wage is going up. Will maintenance loans rise to match it?

The value of history

DfE to stop grading English schools based on proportion of Russell Group students

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With Jess Lister, Senior Policy Manager at Public First, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar and sector historian and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With David Duncan, Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary at University of Glasgow, Selena Bolingbroke, Principal at the Building Crafts College, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

The demographic tide is turning, but university remains popular

The UK will need to do more to reassure international applicants if it wants to remain a first choice destination

TPA: University Rich List 2024

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Plus we have the results of UCU's ballot on industrial action, applications appear to be in decline and students seem to have been forgotten about in the cost of living crisis - again.

With Carole-Anne Upton, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Middlesex University, David Kernohan, Acting Editor at Wonkhe, Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar and sector historian, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus OfS is to survey the prevalence of sexual misconduct, and there’s new NSS data on satisfaction by student characteristic.

With Julie Sanders, Vice Chancellor and Principal at Royal Holloway, University of London, Joe Cooper, Director of People and Culture at University of East London, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

What does the graduate jobs market look like right now?

A league table on sexual misconduct could be coming

NSS 2024 – results by student characteristics

Royal Holloway's Campus Unity Week

The Finnish Student Health and Wellbeing Survey (KOTT)

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Plus there’s a new review out on blended learning and hidden history looks at the origins of UCL.

With Heidi Fraser-Krauss, CEO at Jisc, Ian Dunn, Provost at Coventry University, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus Labour’s new legislation for improving the rental market has been discussed in Parliament, Hidden History looks at a push for higher technical skills, and there’s going to be a new International Education Strategy - we discuss what should be in it.

With Ben Jordan, Director of Strategy at UCAS, Jenny Shaw, Higher Education External Engagement Director at Unite Students, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

Data can help predict where students are struggling with wellbeing

Won’t somebody think of the landlords?

Ten things that could feature in a new International Education Strategy

Universities can build trust through creative public engagement

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Plus the UK has accidentally hit the 2.4 per cent of GDP target for research and development spending, and we consider the culture of debate on campus through two new reports.

With Shân Wareing, Deputy Vice Chancellor at University of Northampton, Nick Hillman, Director at the Higher Education Policy Institute, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratclkiffe, Academic Registrar and sector historian, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus The Times reports that fees might be going up, Hidden History recalls university leaders trying to get the attention of government, and Keir Starmer has been in Brussels – will he give way on fees and youth mobility?

With Rose Stephenson, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Higher Education Policy Institute, Andy Youell, HE data and systems specialist, Livia Scott, Partnerships Coordinator at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

A bluffer’s guide to the Universities UK blueprint for HE policy under Labour

A blueprint for change needs students at its centre

Universities UK has a plan to fix research funding

Fees of £10,500 would be a return to the policies of 2017

The poverty gap between students and the universities they attend is getting wider

Students have unrealistic expectations of the financial support universities can offer them

Starmer vows to turn page on UK’s relationship with the EU

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Meanwhile OfS has published data on student experience and outcomes, and there’s interesting new guidance out on students undertaking a placement.

With Andy Youell, Executive Director Regulation at UCEM, Selena Bolingbroke, Director at Sighthound Consultancy, David Kernohan, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s news on skills (and in particular Level 7 apprenticeships), Hidden History looks at how HE came to be publicly funded, and Wales’ new tertiary regulator has a plan.

With Pam Macpherson Barrett, Head of Policy and Regulation at the University of Leeds, Aaron Porter, Chair at BPP University and Deputy Chair at Goldsmiths, University of London, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s, University of London, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

Students should expect less of universities and more of everyone else

More sharp suits than a Burton’s window

The Jacqui Smith doctrine

Who should pay for relief for students and universities?

A strategic plan for Medr

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Plus the Office for Students has been revising its approach to access and participation, there’s new research out on perceptions of free speech among both students and the wider public, and UCU has a report out on staff and social class.

With Claire Taylor, Deputy Vice Chancellor at Wrexham Glyndŵr University, Andrew Bush, Director of Higher Education Internal Audit and Advisory lead at KPMG, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, editor in chief at Wonkhe.

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With Ben Ward, Chief Executive at University of Manchester Students’ Union, Meg Price, Senior Policy Manager at Public First, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University of London, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Universities will be told to “double down” on sharing things

Why do we all work such long hours?

Staff are working dangerously long hours, and their employers should be concerned

Preventing staff burnout makes financial as well as compassionate sense

Applied Business Academy to close all higher education courses

The NHS productivity puzzle: Why has hospital activity not increased in line with funding and staffing?

Tomorrow’s teachers: A roadmap to get Gen Z into the classroom

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With Smita Jamdar, Partner at Shakespeare Martineau, Gavan Conlon, Partner at London Economics, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Chris Husbands, Director at Higher Futures, Steph Harris, Director of Strategy, Insight and Member Engagement at Universities UK, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George’s University, and presented by Mar Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

Nobel laureates join campaign to save university free speech act

August student visa applications are down 17 per cent on last year

The future of higher and degree apprenticeships under Labour

Would the free speech act have ushered in antisemitism?

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Plus OfS has been pitch-rolling on franchising, Hidden History looks back when universities had their own MPs, and there’s new research on digital student experience.

With Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Ben Vulliamy, Executive Director at the Association of Heads of University Administration, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George's University and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

Jacqui Smith's speech at the Universities UK conference

OfS’ insight on the risks of franchising fall short at addressing the incentives

Students are still facing issues accessing essential digital services

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With Gary Hughes, Chief Executive at Durham Students’ Union, Ailsa Crum, Director of Membership, Quality Enhancement and Standards at the Quality Assurance Agency, David Kernohan, Wonkhe’s Acting Editor and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With David Kernohan, Acting Editor at Wonkhe, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus the QAA has published its investigation into international foundation years, and DK has been making music again.

With Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive at Universities UK, Aaron Porter, Chair of the Board at BPP University, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Jess Lister, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Alex Favier, Founder and Director at Favier Ltd,  David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

What can the NSS can tell us about staff pay?

National Student Survey 2024

Who is Jacqui Smith?

Listening to what students say in the national student survey

What academics want from academic support

Once you can describe an academic support system, you can begin to evaluate it

How universities are thinking about academic support

Five free(ish) things Labour could do on R&D

Thirty seven things Labour should do now to make things better for students

A look at Labour’s in-tray for higher education

The unofficial reintroduction to Patrick Vallance

The Kerslake Collection looks forward to a refreshed civic agenda for universities

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With Michelle Morgan, Dean Of Students at University of East London, Mark Bennett, Director (Audience & Insight) at Find A University, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Paul Greatrix, Registrar at University of Nottingham, Ed Marsh, Chief Executive Officer at the Tutor Trust, and Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Jonathan Grant, Director at Different Angles, Alex Stanley, Vice President Higher Education-elect at the National Union of Students, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Pam Macpherson Barrett, Head of Policy and Regulation at the University of Leeds, Chris Shelley, Director of Student Experience at Queen Mary University of London, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Andy Westwood, Professor of Government Practice at the University of Manchester, Polly Mackenzie, Chief Social Purpose Officer at University of the Arts London, Mark Leach Editor in Chief at Wonkhe, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Eve Alcock, Director of Public Affairs at QAA, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus HEPI has a new study out on students’ standard of living, and UCU has a new report out on academic freedom.

With Anne-Marie Canning, Chief Executive Officer at the Brilliant Club, Ben Vulliamy, Chief Executive at University of York Students’ Union and incoming ED at AHUA, Livia Scott, Partnerships Coordinator at Wonkhe, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus the think tanks are circling as Labour keeps shtum on HE policy, Jim is in Austria chatting dropping out and study speed, and creepy behaviour towards female academics is under fire.

With Julian Gravatt, Deputy Chief Executive at the Association for Colleges, Sally Burtonshaw, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Maja Höggerl, 1st deputy chairwoman at ÖH Uni Graz, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus NUS attempts to bounce back at its annual conference in Blackpool, and new data on graduates’ experiences in the labour market suggests a lot of focus on hybrid working.

With Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Johnny Rich, Chief Executive at the Engineering Professors'​ Council and Push, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Selena Bolingbroke, Principal at the Building Crafts College, Pete Quinn, HE inclusion consultant, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus UUK and UCEA are trying to pull out of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS), and there’s a new tool from ONS that lets us see towns and cities’ ability to retain, attract or lose their graduates.

With Mary Curnock Cook, Chair at the Dyson Institute and Pearson UK, Omar Khan, Chief Executive at TASO, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus we have highlights from our session on the campus culture wars, and we ask whether TV coverage of universities is fair and balanced in the wake of Geoff Norcott's Is University Really Worth It documentary.

With Rebecca Freeman, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) at University of Warwick, David Gilani, Head of Student Engagement and Advocacy at Middlesex University, Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe, Kirsty Sedgman, author of On Being Unreasonable, Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Andy Winter, Director of Student Support Services at the University of Sheffield and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus a new report finds a “growing disconnect” between students and their university experience, and there’s been an HE-free budget.

With Shân Wareing, Deputy Vice Chancellor at University of Northampton, Ben Elger, Chief Executive at the Office of the Independent Adjudicator, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus Australia has a new Universities Accord, there’s all sorts of international numbers floating around, and MPs debate franchising.

With Paul Ashwin, Professor of Higher Education at Lancaster University, Hannah Malone, Vice President at Arts University Bournemouth Students’ Union, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus students are off to court over their Covid consumer claim, and a “welcome week” election could present headaches.

With Mary Stuart, Director of Leadership Development at Minerva, Anne-Marie Canning, Chief Executive Officer at The Brilliant Club, Livia Scott, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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(CW: Suicide, depression, mental health)

With Eve Alcock, Director of Public Affairs at QAA, Ben Whittaker, Chief Executive at LSE Students’ Union, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.

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Plus free school meals students face a “postcode lottery” for university entrance, and we’ve been taking a look at universities’ role in the public sector jobs pipeline.

With Gavan Conlon, Partner at London Economics, Jess Lister, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Helen O'Sullivan, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Chester, Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Steph Harris, Director of Strategy, Insight and Member Engagement at Universities UK, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Nicola Dandridge, Professor of Practice in Higher Education Policy at University of Bristol, Jonathan Grant, Director at Different Angles, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Jim and guests from the bus trip discuss students and sleep, the HE policy year ahead, and what the sector might learn from the frozen north - while Livia catches up with some student leaders from across the countries.

With Lily Byrne, President at Sheffield SU, Hannah Clarke, VP Activities at Lincoln SU, Gary Hughes, CEO at Durham SU, Livia Scott, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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There's also a big delay to the REF to understand, a new report that calls for more graduates and some festive cheer from DK.

With Andy Westwood, Professor of Government Practice at the University of Manchester, Justine Andrew, Head of Education and Head of University Partnership Office at KPMG UK, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s a growing “education divide” in UK politics, Advance HE’s 2023 PTES is out, and we’re asking if universities need to “go hard or go home” on degree apprenticeships. 

With Diana Beech, CEO at London Higher, Mark Bennett, Director (Audience & Editorial) at Find a University, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Roberta Blackman-Woods, Board Chair at Northumbria University, Andy Westwood, Professor of Government Practice at the University of Manchester, Dan Tinkler, Governance Development Manager at Advance HE and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Chris Shelley, Director of Student Experience at Queen Mary University of London, Jess Lister, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Alistair Jarvis, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Partnerships and Governance) at University of London, Eve Alcock, Director of Public Affairs at the Quality Assurance Agency, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus OfS is set to get digging around into franchised provision, and we try to work out if the student training needs in England’s long-term NHS plan are deliverable.

With Sally Mapstone, Principal and Vice Chancellor at the University of St Andrews, Paul Greatrix, Registrar at the University of Nottingham, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s a new report on research culture, and a decline in international student experiences.

With Nicola Dandridge, Professor of Practice in Higher Education Policy at University of Bristol, Andrew Boggs, University Secretary at Royal Holloway, University of London, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus we’ve new research on belonging and cost of living, we review activity on campus in the wake of the situation in the Middle East, and a new iteration of the Social Mobility Index for universities has emerged.

With Rachel Sandby-Thomas, Registrar at University of Warwick, Gary Hughes, Chief Executive at Durham Students'​ Union, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus ministers have written to universities over antisemitism, and we find out what Labour might do on regulating (or not) mental health in universities.

With Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive at Universities UK, Gareth Smith, Executive Director of Student Life and Strategy at UA92, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus Michelle Donelan is kicking “woke ideology” out of science, immigration and international students were the talk of the Conservative Party Conference fringe, and there’s new findings on student views of engagement analytics.

With Julian Gravatt, Deputy Chief Executive at Association of Colleges, Elise Page, Postgraduate Officer at University of East Anglia Students’ Union, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s a new report on university staff and skills development and a “new deal” for PGRs has arrived. 

With Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of Education Practice at Public First, Anne-Marie Canning, Chief Executive Officer at The Brilliant Club, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus Gillian Keegan is urging VCs to just stop just stop oil, the Lifelong Loan Entitlement gets a rebrand and HESA’s making measures on meaningful work more meaningful.

With Selena Bolingbroke, Principal at the Building Crafts College, Jonathan Woodhead, Policy Adviser at Birkbeck, University of London, Michael Salmon, is News Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus we look at what we can learn from two new assessment reports into quality of courses, and there’s a new report on care experienced students.

With Smita Jamdar, Partner and Head of Education at Shakespeare Martineau, Richard Brabner, Director at UPP Foundation, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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We also discuss Horizon, research security and foreign policy, and the question of gathering stats on gender-based violence in higher education.

Plus hidden history looks at how teacher training troubles impacted where our universities are.

With Pete Quinn, HE inclusion consultant, Jess LIster, Associate Director Education at Public First, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus this year's new and "improved" National Student Survey results are out, and the team looks ahead to the new academic year.

With Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, University Administrator and Sector Historian and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s a new NHS workforce plan to think about, the challenges of AI continue to generate debate, and Richard Brabner pays tribute to Bob Kerslake, who died earlier this week.

With Claire Taylor, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive at Plymouth Marjon University, Paul Ashwin, Professor of Higher Education at Lancaster University, Richard Brabner, Director of the UPP Foundation, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus David Willetts has been looking back at his “eight great technologies”, and the debate over reforms to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) rumbles on.

With Shân Wareing, Deputy Vice Chancellor at University of Northampton, Ashley Storer-Smith, Student Voice Manager at University of Nottingham Students’​ Union, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus the marking and assessment boycott is picking up pace, and the Lifelong Loan Entitlement has been in the Lords - we wonder where the demand is.

With Carole-Anne Upton, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Innovation and Impact, Middlesex University, Ben Vulliamy, Chief Executive at University of York Students’ Union, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s a new report out on awarding gaps, there’s advice on recruiting international students and English studies is in better health than we thought.

With Omar Khan, Director at TASO, Sally Burtonshaw, Associate Director Education at Public First, Livia Scott, SUs Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus there’s media interest in UK from across the pond, we’ve been getting all interdisciplinary and there’s revised guidance out on students as consumers.

With Jonathan Grant, Director at Different Angles, India Ellis, President at Lancaster University Students’ Union, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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In a wide ranging discussion the pair talk Wales’ new Commission for Tertiary Education and Research, fees funding and finance, the character of regulation and governance in Wales, Miles’ vision for students as citizens and how the new commission will drive progress on widening access. 

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Plus reform for renters in England is causing a headache in the student housing market, and OfS is upping its fees by 20 per cent - whatever happened to value for money?

With Chris Skidmore, Net Zero Review Chair and MP for Kingswood, Andy Westwood, Professor of Government Practice at The University of Manchester, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus Cabinet wranglings over immigration policy and international students continue, and we discuss whether the sector should wade in or deftly avoid controversies over issues like student drug use.

With Sue Rigby, Vice Chancellor at Bath Spa University, Andy Youell, Executive Director Digital and Regulation at University College of Estate Management, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus support for PGRs is in the news, universities are frantically fundraising in a period of fiscal constraint, and disadvantaged students go on to be lower earning graduates - why?

With Selena Bolingbroke, Director at Sighthound Consultancy, Ben Ward, Chief Executive at University of Manchester Students’ Union, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus we discover how much students are getting from universities in financial help, universities are leaving the CBI just as soon as people realised they were members, and there’s a new commitment out on improving accessibility for disabled students.

With Anton Muscatelli, Principal and Vice Chancellor of the University of Glasgow, Mary Stuart, Director of Leadership Development at Minerva, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus the Lords have beeling listening in on an apparent absence of student voice in the Office for Students, and the question of whether quality-related (QR) funding needs a root-and-branch review is in the air.

With Anthony Finkelstein, President at City, University of London, Smita Jamdar, Partner at Shakespeare Martineau, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus UCAS says we’ll soon have a million applicants, Wales is working towards better mental health and in response to news from Turnitin, plenty of people seem to want to turn it off.

With James Purnell, Vice Chancellor at University of the Arts London, Anne-Marie Canning, CEO at The Brilliant Club, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus the robots are coming for our jobs and souls, and we mark neurodiversity celebration week.

With Nicola Dandridge, Professor of Practice in Higher Education Policy at University of Bristol, Joseph Cooper, Director of People and Culture at University of East London, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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With Sally Burtonshaw, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar and sector historian, Eve Alcock, Head of Public Affairs at QAA, Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus the government has published its independent review of the research, development and innovation organisational landscape, there’s new polling on the public’s attitude to international students, and we’ve been working out where they’re living.

With Marian Hilditch, Academic Registrar at University of Bradford, Mark Bennett, Director Audience and Editorial at Find a University, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus international student visas are up again, and so are dependants, and the Lords have been interrogating universities’ engagement with autocracies.

With Martin Jones, Vice Chancellor at Staffordshire University, Jess Lister, Associate Director Education at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

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Plus Tony Blair and William Hague have ideas out on science and technology, there’s a new student living strategy in Nottingham and we explain the reclassification of FE colleges into the public sector.

With Paul Greatrix, Registrar at the University of Nottingham, Selena Bolingbroke, HE consultant, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, Andrew Bush, Director at KPMG and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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Plus student engagement with their studies may or may not have bounced back, and there’s a call to extend rather than cut the post-study work visa for international students.

With Mary Curnock Cook, Chair of the UPP Foundation’s Student Futures Commission, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

You can subscribe to the podcast on Acast, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, RadioPublic, Podchaser, Castbox, Player FM, Stitcher, TuneIn, Luminary or via your favourite app with the RSS feed.     

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We also discuss this week’s reshuffle and its implications for HE, a new report on graduate outcomes and earnings, and try to understand what’s going on with the government’s short courses trial.

With Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive at Universities UK, Julie Sanders, Principal at Royal Holloway, University of London, David Kernohan, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Luke Myer of Edge Hill Students’ Union; Sarah Barr-Miller of UCAS; and Wonkhe’s David Kernohan.

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With Graeme Atherton, director of the National Education Opportunities Network; Kate Wicklow, policy manager at GuildHE; and Wonkhe’s Minto Felix.

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With Rachel Hall, Universities Editor at the Guardian, Alec Cameron, Vice Chancellor of Aston University, and Wonkhe’s Jim Dickinson.

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Find out about the university curriculum that was designed exclusively for women, the origins of the commuting university, the battle to be the oldest university, and the students at a university where most of the rules were for those that taught them - and much more!

With Nottngham Trent’s Academic Registrar, Mike Ratcliffe.

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With Shan Wareing, Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education) at London South Bank University; Thom Brookes, Professor of Law and Government at Durham University; and Wonkhe’s David Kernohan.

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With Nick Hillman, Director at HEPI, Jess Moody, Senior Advisor at Advance HE and Wonkhe's own Arthi Nachiappan.

The shownotes and correlation quiz are on wonkhe.com

Note this episode contains discussion of stalking and domestic violence. Paladin is the national stalking advisory service paladinservice.co.uk. The national domestic violence helpline is 0808 2000 247.

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Plus Chris Skidmore calls App Britain!, our correlation quiz and more Hidden History of HE.

With Johnny Rich, CEO of Push and the Engineering Professors' Council; Julia Clarke, Pro VC at Manchester Metropolitan; and Wonkhe's Editor Debbie McVitty.

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We also cover the University of Cambridge’s withdrawal of a two-month fellowship for Jordan Peterson.

With David Morris of the University of Greenwich; Rebecca Lowe of the Institute of Economic Affairs; and Wonkhe’s own Mark Leach.

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We also discuss the UK’s skills slowdown, the looming university recruitment crisis, and Hidden History looks at degrees for women.

With Robin Webber-Jones, Vice Principal at The Sheffield College; Kate Wicklow, Policy Manager at Guild HE; and Minto Felix, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.

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With Chris Shelley, Director of Student and Academic Services at the University of Greenwich; Gavan Conlon, Partner at London Economics; and Wonkhe’s own Jim Dickinson.

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With Andy Youell, strategic data advisor; Eve Alcock, president of Bath Students’ Union; and Wonkhe’s editor Debbie McVitty.

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With HE public affairs and strategy expert Charles Heymann, Lucy Findlay of Social Enterprise Mark, and Wonkhe’s David Kernohan.

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With serial non-exec and sector expert Mary Curnock Cook, HE consultant Pete Quinn, and Wonkhe’s Editor-in-Chief, Founder and CEO Mark Leach.

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With Anne Marie Canning of King’s College London, William Whyte from the University of Oxford, and Wonkhe’s Arthi Nachiappan.

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