Higher Education Futures

This podcast is part of the DILEMMAS programme providing background for those wrestling with strategy and planning for the coming period.

A management intelligence podcast from Policy Review exploring the challenges policy makers, managers and leading professionals may face over the coming years following the election of a new government.   Stimulate your thinking and planning and review your assumptions about government policy.

The Times Higher Education Young Universities Summit: embracing the unique challenges and opportunities facing the world’s dynamic young institutions

The THE Young Universities Summit, which took place in Miami in April 2014 in partnership with the UK’s Plymouth University, was the first global gathering created for the leaders of the world’s young institutions (defined as those around 50 years old or younger). It attracted more ...

Schools in the Cloud - Learning without teachers - it could not happen - could it? #cloudschoolsdebate

Learning without teachers – it couldn’t happen, could it? Professor Sugata Mitra (Professor of Educational Technology at the University of Newcastle, England) has launched a $1m experiment to find out. His ‘schoo...

Shape of things to come 2: the evolution of transnational education

A British Council event

This evening broadcast began with an overview of the research presented by Kevin Van-Cauterfrom British Council and John McNamara, Director, McNamara Economic Research followed by a discussion between a panel around key questions and chaired by Dr William Lawton, Director, Observatory on Borderless Higher Education, UK.

Debate: Future models of learning

Will the teaching profession as we have known it become obselete?

Going Global 2013 #GOINGGLOBAL

Dubai - World Trade Centre

Going Global is an annual conference hosted by the British Council, offering an open forum for global leaders of international education to discuss issues facing the international education community. Since its inception in 2004, Going Global has grown from a bi-annual event in the UK to an annual event travelling the globe. Each year it attracts over 1,000 registered delegates from across the te...

Meeting Student Expectations and Complaints #stuex13

Broadcast from London

As students are now enrolled under the new funding regime and graduate employment remains sluggish, student expectations are expected to continue to rise. The Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) has received a steady rise in formal complaints, and many institutions are reviewing their internal processes to speed up the internal procedures for dealing with complaints.

Private Providers in HE

  The new funding regime for higher education has significantly shifted the landscape for the sector. Many institutions previously in receipt of funding through teaching grant are largely reliant on tuition fee income. Government reforms have sought to actively encourage new providers to enter the higher education arena, and a small number of new provide...

FE Reputation and Marketing #FEmarketing

Broadcast from London

With the student cohort decreasing, FE providers have to work harder than ever to promote their offering to young people, parents, employers and the local community. Colleges’ marketing strategies must be targeted and cost-effective – but more than this, their reputations, and the reputation of Further and vocational education as a whole, are crucial to their success. This online event will focus on h...

Retention, Progression & Success in Higher Education #HEretention

Broadcast from London

As individual students bear an increased burden for the cost of their tuition, the focus on student retention and progression has increased. In addition, the debate about access into higher education has moved on from simply getting students to university but to making sure they are supported to thrive and succeed. The financial imperatives for institutions are considerable too, to ensure that students enrol are supported to complete and su...

Improving International Student Experience: Understanding the winds of change #iise

Broadcast live from London

The contribution of international students to the UK is enormous; culturally, academically and financially. The UK retains a substantial reputation for attracting and retaining international students from across the globe, but competition is intensifying. Recent policy changes to international student visa regulations in the UK, and emerging challenges from key competitors teaching in English - particularly in th...

Higher Education Shared Services Forum #hess12

Broadcast from Central London

The resolution of the VAT obstacles to shared services open a range of collaboration, social enterprises, joint ventures, joint procurement and outsourcing possibilities. But strategic thinking needs to sit above agile responses. Find o...

Taught Postgraduates #postgrads12

Competition, Marketing and Quality

Postgraduate Taught provision remains a crucial component of UK higher education, but has arguably been overlooked by successive governments who have failed to bring together a credible and coherent strategy.   As the impact of reforms to undergraduate funding begin to take affect, institutions are considering the implications for future taught postgraduate recruitment. The changes to immigration rules, comb...

Enhancing Student Experience #hexperience12

Broadcast from Central London

The student experience has been at the heart of the higher education debate for several years, but what are institutions doing to really i...

Graduate Talent and Employability: Meeting student expectations #grademployability

With the increase in tuition fees and the ongoing challenges in the jobs market, the focus on graduate employability

Access and Admissions to Higher Education #accessHE

Broadcast from Central London

As the first cohort of students enter higher education under the new funding regime, questions are already being asked about whether demand will recover from the 10% drop in England in 2012 and what more the higher education sector can do to improve access and admissions across the United Kingdom. This online event will learn from good practice on access and outreach, consider how access agreements can continue to be fit fo...

Future Strategies for University and College Libraries #HElibraries

Broadcast from London The issue facing academic and research libraries today is what should their role be in the changing academic and technological landscape. This has been compunded by the continued financial pressures facing universities as a whole. As with any service under pressure; it is vital to explore innovative ways to improve quality provision at a reduced cost

Distinctiveness in HE Marketing in a new era - defining your offer #emhe12

Broadcast from London

Marketing in Higher Education is going through a revolution and is being tested by new funding and competitors. The applications for 2012 are already producing unexpected patterns. With the new funding regime; price variability for undergraduate students and increased competition for student places, distinctiveness and effective marketing is crucial in order to stand out in a more aggressive market.

Higher Education in FE Colleges - Collaboration and Competition: degrees of change #HEinFE

Broadcast from London

In these changing and challenging times, it is vital to create a sustainable model for delivering Higher Education to a local audience in a Further Education College. 

FE Teaching and Learning Conference - New challenges and new chances #FEteaching

Broadcast from London

Ofsted has announced that of the 84 colleges inspected in 2010/11, not one was rated outstanding for ‘teaching and learning’. Furthermore, 16 colleges were given only 'satisfactory' as their overall grade for the third inspection in a row. As a result, Ofsted stated: “We propose to focus more sharply on how well leadership and management improve the quality of teaching and...

FE and Skills Inspection: Achieving 'Outstanding' #feis2012

Broadcast from London Are you ready for the new Common Inspection Framework? The 2012 revised Common Inspection Framework for Further Education and Skills planned to bring a number of critical changes to the inspection process.  The biggest single change likely to affect you is the notice period for inspections. This will be reduced from ...

Research Excellence Framework Strategies for success #ref12

Broadcast from London

As we approach the upcoming Research Excellence Framework, this conference will consider the implications for higher education, but also debate how institutions can look to maximise their impact. In a changing environment which provides new challenges and opportunities, learn from those shaping the new world and how it can impact on your institution. We will also examine the impo...

Functional Skills - Making the transition from policy to implementation

Broadcast from London

From August, Functional Skills will become a compulsory part of all substantive further education courses, replacing Adult Basic Skills and Key Skills. This broadcast of the Functional Skills conference will look at how providers manage the necessary transition; upskilling teaching staff and embedding the new programmes into existing areas of the curriculum, as well as the role of technology and new flexible teaching met...

Higher Education and Schools Partnerships Day: Ensuring access in a new funding landscape #heschools

Broadcast from Central London

4th Annual conference Individual HE and school partnership programmes have replaced the national structure and standards of Aimhigher, and collaboration between Higher Education Institutions and schools is entering a new era. In accordance with their 2012-13 access agreements, HEIs are initiating and administrating a huge variety of different local and regional programmes and forms of partnership, some for the first ti...

HEA Annual Conference 2012: Great expectations – are you ready?

Higher education is undergoing transformational change throughout the UK and although policies may be diverging amongst the four nations, the principle of students being central is shared. Their expectations of their course, institution and learning experience are rising. Staff and Institutions have their own aims and expectations too. In the year of the London O...

The Future of Further Education Forum 2012 - New challenges and new chances #fefutures

Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB

More than ever, as budget restrictions take effect, it is vital that colleges, community learning services and work-based learning providers develop precise and informed strategies. Cuts to the 19+Learning budget; a fall in student enrolment and the funding gap has resulted in increasing challenges to the education system across the board. These difficulties provide an opportunity to look to new innova...

Higher Education beyond 2015 #HE2015

New Student Choices; New Economics; New Technologies Institutional Strategies conference

Broadcast from London

The shape of things to come

Promoting excellence in teaching and learning in higher education #HEteaching

Broadcast from London

Funding for teaching in UK Higher Education is changing. Interim measures are in place for 2012-13 and a HEFCE consultation on future funding plans is currently taking place.     ...

The Future of Apprenticeships #apprenticeships12

Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB

  Policy Review TV broadcast this event in High Definition. ...

Student Immigration: can the UK retain its international position? #studentimmigration

Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB

NEWS STORY: 'Student route has a...

Can't Speak, Can't Learn: What's the Impact of Non-Native Speakers in Schools?

76 Portland Place (the Institute of Physics), London, W1B 1NT

#cacscl As experts in assessment, we believe it is our duty to provide a forum to debate key educational issues. This event focused on English as an Additional Language (EAL). The proportion of primary school children speaking other languages at home has doubled in the past decade. The...

IfL broadcast: The future of our profession #IfL_Views

IfL held an online broadcast on Tuesday 22 May 2012 to enable IfL members to discuss the issues raised in the recent Lingfield review and IfL’s consultation on this subject. More information on the independent review can be found on the IfL website click here,    ...

8th Offender's Learning, Skills and Employability Conference #offender12

London

In May 2011 the Government proposed reforms to the adult offender education system with a greater emphasis on the results that education and training delivers for offenders. Subsequently, policy and funding opportunities made available through the Work Programme, Youth Contract and apprenticeships, have further highlighted the benefits of skills and employment to rehabilitation. But although plenty of progress has been...

Fundraising and Philanthropy in Higher Education #HEFundraising

Central London

New techniques, new opportunities and moving forward after Woolf What opportunities do the much publicised reductions in government spending present to institutions to build a culture of voluntary giving? How will the Lord Woolf Inquiry change institutional attitudes to fundraising, and what safeguards need to be in place? How can we learn from global good practice? Institutions are looking for su...

10th National Sure Start Conference #surestart12

Manchester

The Sure Start conference continues to be the essential event for all Children's Centre Leaders and Local Authority Officers, equipping attendees with the most up-to-the-minute policy and best-practice guidance. Challenging times require new ways of working to ensure sustainability, quality and the best possible outcomes for families. This year, speakers shared their expertise...

Reforming Higher Education Admissions annual conference #reformhe

Westminster Studio, London SW1

Both the Browne Review and Higher Education ...

Independent Commission into Adult Education and Vocational Pedagogy – Teacher and Trainer symposium #vocped

The Institute for Learning, in partnership with the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), is supporting the Independent Commission into Adult Vocational Learning. The purpose of this event was to share findings collected by IfL from over 120 practition...

Retention and Progression in Higher Education #HEretention

Through the recent reforms to funding and the Higher Education White Paper, the government have placed an even greater emphasis on student retention and progression. Although huge amounts of the access infrastructure have been removed - such as AimHigher - this conference looks at how institutions have responded and what new national initiatives are in place. The conference also looked at the schemes and best-practice f...

International Partnerships; Transnational Education - delivering UK Higher Education worldwide

Eversheds LLP Headquarters, 1 Wood Street, London EC2

#hepartnerships There are now more students studying for a qualification from a UK university abroad than there are international students in the UK, according to a recent report by the UK Higher Education International and Europe Unit. The rise of transnational education (TNE) offers unprecedented international expansion and partnership opportunities to UK Higher Education Institutions. Options includ...

What Works? Student Retention & Success

University of York

This Conference takes a research-informed approach to answering the question ‘what works’ to improve student retention and success in higher education. It presents the outcomes from the three-year What Works? programme, including the key findings, the conceptual model and specific details and tools from the seven projects. In addition, it showcases the best evidence-informed approaches to what works from across the UK HE sector ...

Student Recruitment and Retention in FE Colleges - Tackling the falling numbers of students #R&RinFE

This conference was held at Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB

  Despite an increase in school sixth-form students, colleges and training providers have seen demand fall and recruitment targets missed. While the Department for Education pledged to launch an investigation into reduced recruitment commentators quickly cited the loss of EMA; the increase in costs of university fees; competition from other colleges, and unaffordable transport as causes. This conference provides&n...

Shared Services for Further Education - Strategies for Results #ssfe12

This conference was held at Eversheds HQ, 1 Wood Street, City of London, EC2V 7WS

Why you must view this conference: • Get an insider’s briefing on what services FE colleges are successfully sharing and how best to maximise cost savings; • Understand the obstacles and key success factors in commissioning shared services – quality, technical, legal, VAT and HR; • Learn from your peers - eight FE colleges share their experiences of delivering shared serv...

3rd Broadcast National Conference: Information, Advice and Guidance #IAG12

Looking to the future of careers guidance in challenging times

Going Global 2012 #GG2012 - three day event

Graduate Employability 2012 #grademployability

This conference was held at Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB

Improving Understanding among students, institutions, business; avoiding "Generation Crunch”. This conference looked at initiatives to improve graduate employability, highlighting the need for a diverse and holistic approach to improving employability skills. A degree no longer guarantees a job. Institutions need to embed employability proficiency into courses and students must look outside the classroom to enhance the...

Broadcast National Conference Meeting Student Expectations, Contract or Partnership

With keynote speakers Peter Vicary-Smith, Chief Executive, Which? and Anthony McClaran, Chief Executive, Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education. Set in the context of the Higher Education White Paper this important national conference brought together policy makers, stu...

Learning comes first: shifting the focus from examining to the curriculum

A Cambridge Assessment event held at 1 Birdcage Walk, Westminster, London, SW1

This Cambridge Assessment-hosted event debated what a good programme of learning should look like. Ample evidence shows a curriculum is at the heart of the learning experience a school offers its pupils, and at the heart of the mission and vision of that school. Good curricula develop learners’ understanding, knowledge and skills. So what should a good curriculum – or, a good education – look like? ...

Improving the International Student Experience

Attracting and retaining international students in an increasingly competitive international market

Follow on Twitter #iise The UK retains a substantial reputation for attracting and retaining international students from across the globe. However, recent policy changes to international student visa regulations in the UK, and emerging challenges from key competitors teaching in English - particularly in the United States, Australia and Europe - mean...

2nd Annual Conference, Private Provision in UK HE

Collaborating or competing with private providers To be held at the Westminster studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB.

Twitter: #PPINHE Private provision in Higher Education is set to expand beyond the professional and postgraduate spheres. This conference, timed to follow the Department for Business and Innovation’s empowering and protection consumers’ consultation will explore the future of private provision in UK HE. Sector leaders will provide guidance and examples of best pract...

Taught Postgraduates - Competition, Marketing, Quality

Held at Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB.

Twitter: #postgrads11 This conference was supported by: 1994 Group, NUS, Higher Education Academy, HEERA and UKPASS With the Browne Review and White Paper reconfiguring undergraduate provision, the government has now reconvened a review led by Sir Adrian Smith (Director-General, BIS) into Postgraduate provision. This national confer...

The Future of Apprenticeships

ICO Conference Centre, London W1, 22 Berners Street, London

A year on from the coalition Government’s commitment to create a total of 150,000 additional apprenticeship places, we are provided the opportunity to assess success and look to ‘what’s next’ in vocational training. Figures by the National Apprenticeship Service demonstrate that there are now more than 85,000 employers offering apprenticeships in more than 130,000 locations. Further...

Shared Services for HE

Strategies for results. Held at Hotel Ibis London Earls Court, London SW6.

Historically, Higher Education Institutions have ventured into shared ‘back office’ functions, but with impending budget cuts, you may be considering cost reductions and efficiency savings across the board. However, shared services are not without their hurdles - with complex technical, legal, VAT and HR issues to overcome. By attending this conference online you will explore fresh models of service provision and have a fantasti...

Enhancing the Student Experience

5th Annual Conference. To be held at The King's Fund, 11-13 Cavendish Square, London W1.

Now in its fifth year and set in the spotlight of increased tuition fees and significant government efficiency savings, this conference brought together higher education leaders to examine how to manage and exceed students’ diverse expectations in these challenging times. The new system of graduate contributions and subsidised loans will have a wide-ranging impact on how future students will experience higher education, inc...

Next Steps in Admissions to HE

Critical to success. To be held at Hallam Conference Centre, 44 Hallam Street, London W1.

The White Paper on Higher Education changes the landscape for HE admissions and makes the admissions process important not only to your college's reputation, but to your financial stability. UCAS is currently reviewing admissions processes. Post Qualification Application features in the White Paper, European and international competition looks to increa...

Effective Marketing in Higher Education

National Conference. To be held at Hallam Conference Centre, 44 Hallam Street, London W1.

“In future, graduates will pay more towards the cost of their degrees, but – in return – the Government's proposals will improve their experience as students, expand their choices and make universities more accountable to students than ever before.” Higher Education White Paper - Students at the Heart of the System, June 2011

Part time, distance and flexible study in Higher Education

National Conference: A new deal for part-time and distance students? To be held at Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London, SW1

Set in the context of the forthcoming Higher Education White Paper this conference will bring together leaders in higher education to discuss how to open up more flexible, part-time provision. While initial participation rates for part-time students has been in decline for a number of years from 2012-13 part-time students studying between 25 and 75 per cent of a full-time course will be eligible for tuition fee l...

Further Education and Skills Inspection

Preparing for inspection; improving quality. 2nd Annual Conference. To be held at The King's Fund, 11-13 Cavendish Square, London W1.

In 2012 OFSTED will issue a streamlined learning and skills inspection framework for the Further Education and Skills sector. Attend this conference and you’ll have an excellent blueprint on how to become, and remain, outstanding. As a delegate, you’ll get an insiders briefing on what OFSTED expects AND you’ll discover best practice in action from senior management in FE colleges. Now in its 2nd...

Launch of QS University Rankings - Latin America

 Sponsored by: QS elabora el World University Rankings desde el año 2004, el cual es uno de los ranking de mayor referencia mundial de universidades. QS es un pro...

Work Global, Act Sectoral, INSSO Conference and Global Skills Debate

RSA, London

Sponsored by multinational brand Pearson, publishers of the Financial Times, the conference has been described as the "World Economic Forum" for jobs, growth and skills, with both the INSSO conference and Global Skills Debate taking place on the same day. There will be high profile - expert speakers - from indu...

UK Research

5th Annual Conference: REF2014: Impact assessments and Funding. To be held at 76 Portland Place, London W1B

Media Partner: We would like to thank the media partner for this event, Research Fortnnight.

Access to Higher Education

National Conference: Raising levels of attainment; widening participation. To be held at Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London, SW1

As has been widely reported almost three-quarters of universities declaring fees to date are proposing a £9,000 flat rate from the next academic year. Whilst most Higher Education Institutions will have fee waivers and bursary schemes in place for the poorer students, the Office for Fair Access (Offa) is currently assessing the detailed access agreements needed to satisfy them about the per...

University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations

The online classroom? The latest online developments for teaching, learning and assessing English is the theme of this virtual conference hosted by Cambridge ESOL. It includes short presentations from representatives from Cambridge ESOL, Kaplan, Cambridge University Press and Bell Education Trust and is aimed at teachers of ESOL.

Enhancing Literacy and Numeracy

Next steps for Skills for Life and Functional Skills. 8th Annual Conference. Held at Westminster Studio, London SW1

This confernce informed sector leaders about the challenges and opportunities of changes to 19+ learner funding, eligibilities and other changes in 2011/12.

FE Mergers and Partnerships

Sharing and outsourcing; building beneficial collaborations. Held at Eversheds LLP HQ, London EC2

This conference provided experience and insight for principals, finance directors, facilities and ICT managers, deans and directors facing the challenge of change.

FE and International Markets

Generating new revenue streams; international business development. 6th annual conference. Held at Westminster Studio, London SW1

This established conference brought together senior leaders responsible for international partnerships, recruitment and business development in the UK FE sector to discuss the future of the internationalisation agenda and how to benefit in the short and long term.

Is 14 the new 16?

A free to view event from Cambridge Assessment

Discussion paper: Education systems urged to restructure: Why? What questions are really asked? by Roger-François Gauthier Click to download: English version Fre...

Higher Education and Schools Partnerships Conference

Ensuring access; maintaining relationships. 3rd Annual conference. Held at Westminster Studio, London SW1

This conference brought together vice-chancellors, head teachers and college principals, along with partnership and widening participation managers, to discuss the latest policy developments and the future for partnership working.

Higher Education Futures Forum

Timed to allow maximum analysis of the spring Higher Education White Paper, this event provided an integrated and comprehensive insight into how the leading higher education institutions are addressing the challenges, the consequences for public policy, and the future shape and sustainability of UK HE. Please note that we have had technical problems with the video file for Masterclass 3 but hope to add it to the site soon...

The Future of Further Education Forum 2011

Held at The Bloomsbury Hotel, London WC1

The Future of Further Education Forum highlighted how sector specialists, principals, senior management teams, and policy leaders, will prepare for changes that this new age demands. This national forum explored the evolving funding and governance models for colleges, whilst sharing best practice in demonstrating quality and making valuable resources stretch further. How will the sector find alternative revenue streams and develo...

UK Students Abroad

Generating new revenue models; improve international mobility. Held at Westminster Studio, London SW1 Sponsored by i-graduate Supported by the British Council

This conference looked at the academic, career and personal development for students. It also explored support for students, various schemes, partnerships and exchange programmes, and what the benefits of studying abroad means for the student, the UK university and the UK economy as a whole.

The Future of Apprenticeships

Third National Conference. Held at Westminster Studios, Central London

This conference looked to best practice in apprenticeship delivery. Delegates had the opportunity to hear from sector leaders, academics and the Government who informed on best practice and future policy developments.

Graduate Employability

Going beyond the BA. National Conference. Held at Westminster Studio, London

This conference provided an opportunity to explore the schemes and skills employers value most, and to discuss innovations, funding streams and best practice in developing students’ employability with senior representatives from universities, colleges and industry.

International Partnerships in Higher Education

Academic growth, fair global society. Held at Westminster Studio, London

This conference brought together leaders in the higher education sector as well as agencies involved in international business development to enhance commercial and academic benefits through international HE partnerships.

Institute for Learning Interactive Debate

Held at Westminster Studio, London SW1

The panel featured IfL chief executive Toni Fazaeli and IfL chair Sue Crowley.    

Meeting Student Expectations

Students or consumers? A consumer revolution? 3rd Annual Conference held at Westminster Studio, London

Set in the context of the Higher Education White Paper this important national conference brought together policy makers, student support professionals, student representatives and senior HE administrators and legal experts to consider the impact that the new financial situation will have on student expectations and the possibility of greater "consumer protection" for students.

What kind of education enables us to cope with an interconnected world?

A Cambridge Assessment event held at 1 Great George Street, Westminster, London, SW1

Cambridge Assessment hosted an event to investigate what an interconnected world means for education. It looked at what knowledge and skills are attractive to HE institutions and employers around the world and whether there is a common set of skills, body of knowledge, level of understanding or a mindset that enables students and countries to flourish in an interconnected world. It also considered global skills for...

Going Global 2011

World education: the new powerhouse? A British Council Learning event held in Hong Kong

As global markets develop rapidly, governments perceive that innovation and economic growth will be generated from growing global networks of researchers, students and institutions. But what challenge does this present to traditional roles of universities and colleges? How will this change the purpose and practice of higher and tertiary education? Who are the new players and partners – governments, business, academics, and students? ...

FE Teaching and Learning

Annual Conference. Skilling for the future; effective leadership. Held at Westminster Studio and at our St Helens Satelite Hub.

This conference focused on the overall student experience and outcomes for learners and addressed what skills are required by employers, how senior management can support and motivate teaching staff in delivering positive outcomes for students and for the school and its reputation.

Higher Education in FE

FE-HE Collaboration: Drivers of Change. Held at the Conference Suite, Eversheds LLP Headquarters, London with a satellite centre at Eversheds offices in Manchester.

This conference addressed the way forward in FE and HE Education, the various partnerships and collaborations possible and the challenges of loss of funding.

Enhancing Fundraising and Philanthropy in Higher Education

No longer an optional extra. National Conference held at Westminster Studio, London and brodcast from our satellite hub at Exeter University

This conference brought together vice-chancellors, directors of development, external affairs, major gifts and finance and other senior decision makers to examine how to sustain the gains that have been made and the critical future role of major donors and alumni funding.

Improving International Student Experience

3rd Annual Conference. Enhancing the academic offer; overcoming obstacles. Held at Westminster Studio and at our Leeds Satelite Hub. Scroll down to book.

This conference addressed all the key-issues of maintaining and exceeding international students’ expectations, targeted marketing and recruitment campaigns and the use of technology to monitor applicants and progress of students.

Student Retention and Progression in Higher Education

6th Annual Conference. Held at Westminster Studio, London SW1P

This conference brought together senior managers and policy makers from across the higher education sector to explore how to sustain widening participation, achieve high levels of student retention and to provide students with the best opportunity to succeed.

Private Provision in UK Higher Education

Quality, efficiency, regulation. Held in central London

This conference brought together vice-chancellors, principals and other senior decision-makers from across public and private higher education to examine the threats and opportunities on the horizon for all higher education providers.

Postgraduates

The right university, the right degree, the best student experience. Held at Westminster Studio, London

This national one-day conference brought together key stakeholders from across the Higher Education sector and provided an opportunity to discuss the main issues facing postgraduate course providers to improve student experience, attract undergraduate and graduate students and meet employers’ expectations.

14-19 Skills for Employability

Equipping young people for the world of employment. To be held at America Square Conference Centre, London and broadcast at our regional satellite viewing hub in St Helens, Merseyside.

The conference will provide one of the first opportunities to discuss the results of the new skills strategy. It brings together senior representatives from the learning and skills sector with employers to discuss the implications of the latest policy developments.

Preventing a funding crisis in higher education

Addressing the outcomes of the Browne review and spending review.

Universities UK’s second annual higher education funding debate was an early opportunity to discuss the outcomes of the Government’s response to the Browne review, as well as the recent spending review. Speakers include: Rt Hon David Willetts MP, Minister of State Lord Browne of Madingley

Graduate Talent

Innovation and Skills for Competitiveness. To be held in central London

This conference will bring together thought leaders from government, industry and education to get information about the latest skills needs and discover new opportunities for collaboration in support of them.

The Future of Shared Services in Higher Education

Held in central London

This conference explored the opportunities for the strategic development of new models provision and how to capitalise on movements in the sector for greater integration and streamlining of administrative services. Please note that, although Paul Evans, Director of Business Excellence, Liverpool John Moores University, was unable to attend this conference, his presentation slides are available to view on the site ...

Enhancing the Student Experience

Held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London and at our Satellite hub at St Helens College, Merseyside.

Set in the context of significant government efficiency savings and the Browne review of funding and fees, this conference brought together higher education leaders to examine how to manage and exceed students' diverse expectations.

The Future of Apprenticeships

Best Practice in Taking Opportunities & Overcoming Barriers. Held in central London

This conference, strategically timed for after the Comprehensive Spending Review, looked to the future of Apprenticeships to assess the opportunities and barriers for both education and business stakeholders.  Featured presentation from Michael Davis from the UK Commission: 

Higher Education Futures

CSR - First Cut of the Figures. Broadcast seminar and reception held at Policy Review Westminster Studio

This event set out the implications of the CSR and the next steps through the financial and policy landscape that will enable higher education institutions to survive and prosper. Participants will have a clearer idea of what the Browne Review and the CSR means for their institution, organisational strategy and use of assets. Discussions were led by a distinguished panel including: Profes...

Part time study in Higher Education

National Conference. Held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London

This conference brought together leaders in higher education to discuss funding, student support and retention and examine how providers are beginning to actively change their approach to accommodate and support a range of student ability, study options and timeframes.

Cambridge Assessment Conference

Challenges of assessment reform. Held at Robinson College

This conference addressed the challenges of assessment reform. What ensures its success? What undermines it? What lessons can we learn from reforms past and present? The event involved exceptional thinkers provoking cutting-edge debate. Cambridge Assessment is the brand name of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate, a department of the University of Cambridge.

Admissions to Higher Education

8th Annual National Conference. New pressures, new solutions. Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

This conference looked at best practice in widening participation, fairness and accessibility in the applications process, and asked how demand can be managed efficiently to ensure the best outcome for both students and HE institutions.

Further Education Colleges and International Markets

5th Annual Conference held in central London

This conference brought together leaders, marketers, admission and recruitment directors and others from FE colleges from across the UK to discuss new marketing and recruitment strategies, websites, new technologies and working with agents and partner with colleges abroad.

Academies

National Conference held in central London

Over 1,700 schools have indicated an interest in acquiring academy status and this conference provided a timely examination of the latest funding, content and logistical details for all those tasked with strategic planning and implementation to get right up to date and prepare with confidence.

Effective Marketing in Higher Education

Unique selling points in a time of austerity and economic uncertainty. Held at 76 Portland Place, London

Effective marketing, recruitment and retention of students are vital for university funding. With a cap on the number of student places available in 2010-2011, increased student expectations and a challenging jobs market, it is vital for HEI’s to recruit and retain the right candidates.

Further Education and Skills Inspection

Promoting excellence, meeting the needs of learners. Held at Ambassadors, Bloomsbury, London

This conference brought together experts and leaders from FE colleges and training providers from across the UK to share ideas and experiences, evaluate the past year and promote continuous improvement and constant inspection readiness.

Cambridge Assessment at Conservative Party Conference

Global Position Seminar: Reaching your Target Segment

A Masterclass Trans-Atlantic Broadcast held at Westminster Studio. Hosted by the Chronicle and PRTV

Chaired by: David Wheeler, Managing Editor International, The Chronicle Speakers included: Professor Sir Drummond Bone, former Vice-Chancellor, Liverpool University Professor Colin Grant, Pro Vice Chancellor, University of Surrey Elizabeth Scarborough, Chief Executive Officer, SimpsonScarborough Gretchen Dobson, Senior Associate Director, Domestic and Internat...

UK Research

4th annual conference: the future of research funding. Held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London

This year’s national research conference provided one of the first opportunities to learn about the Government’s unfolding plans from senior figures.

14-19 Diplomas

Qualifications, consortia, funding. 5th National Conference. Held at Millennium Gloucester Hotel, Kensington, London

This original independent examination of Diplomas brought together leaders, experts and professionals responsible for the 14-19 Diplomas.

Further Education Mergers, Confederations and Shared partnerships

Change is inevitable: efficiency, structure and governance in FE. Held in central London

This one day conference was for Senior Further Education professionals who are looking at ways to secure the future success of their FE colleges.

Autumn of Decision - Education and Skills

Broadcast seminar and breakfast reception. Held at Policy Review Westminster Studio, 10 Greycoat Place, London SW1P 1SB from 8:00 - 11:00hrs

A morning reception and live broadcast discussion on the outlook for the Higher and Further Education sector including the 20th October announcements, legislation and reform. Discussions were led by the following distinguished panel of leading education policy makers and commentators: Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive, Universities UK James Groves, Head of the Education Unit, Policy Exchange

Skills for Life

7th annual conference. Enhancing employability; towards functional skills. Held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London

This conference provided a key opportunity for all those tasked with strategic planning and implementation to get right up to date with the pilot and research projects already undertaken and prepare with confidence for full implementation.

The Future of Further Education

Held at the Bloomsbury Hotel, London

This event presented one of the first opportunities for sector specialists, principals, senior management teams and policy leaders to prepare for changes that the post-election world will demand.

Higher Education Futures

Deciding a route and role for your institution. A diverse future? Time for Choices. Held at the Bloomsbury Hotel, London

This conference set out how institutions are planning a decisive route and role at a time of severe public sector restraint, demographic decline, rising student expectations, a more competitive international market and loud demands from all political parties for an improved offer to business. News story on BBC website: Private universities 'to expand' to fil...

QAA Annual Subscribers' Meeting: 'Future Directions'

Held at St. David's Hotel, Cardiff

Attended by over 120 delegates from subscribing institutions and higher education representative bodies from across the UK, the central theme of the conference was ‘Future Directions’ with a number of high profile speakers sharing their views and visions for the future of higher education in the UK.

Meeting student expectations

Improving student satisfaction and managing complaints. Held at The King’s Fund, London

This conference brought together experts from HEIs, Student Unions and the OIA to discuss how, in a relationship with redefined parameters, students’ expectations as consumers can be met, their complaints handled effectively, and a HEIs reputation be preserved. Keynote speaker: Julia Hobsbawm, Founder of Editorial Intelligence; Professor of Public Relations, University of the Arts, London.

Maintaining Excellence in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education

Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

Excellence in teaching and providing a high quality learning experience will be critical for the UK to maintain and extend its position as a world leader in higher education. This event was for all teaching professionals and senior managers responsible for teaching and learning.

Higher Education and Schools Partnerships

3rd Annual Conference. Held at The King's Fund, London

This conference brought together key decision makers responsible for 14-19 learners to examine how to reach this young talent pool and encourage their social mobility through higher education.

Teaching and Learning

Measuring and Delivering Quality in FE. Held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London

The coming two years will be the most difficult FE has faced in 20 years, with changes in finance bringing major questions about the range of provision and a desire to focus on quality of outcome. Pre-conference interview with Lee Davies, Deputy Chief Executive, Institute for Learning:

Let's talk exam standards

Exam standards - Join the debate. To be held at RSA House, London.

Cambridge Assessment hosted an open and frank discussion about examination standards to clarify public understanding of the different examination standard issues. How to participate Comment: Have your say on exam standards now by taking part in the online discussion and posting your thoughts at: www.examstand...

Student Retention and Progression

5th Annual Conference. Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

This conference brought together senior managers and policy makers from across the higher education sector to set out how to meet the challenge of achieving high levels of student retention. Our cameras were there to cover all the main sessions. View content from last year's event  

British Council - Going Global 4

Held at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, London

We broadcast all plenary sessions live from this major international education conference. Our partner for the live sessions was: The Chronicle of Higher Education Programme details: HERE

14-19 Funding

3rd Annual Conference. Transferring the funding, transforming the system. Held at NH Jolly St Ermin’s, Westminster

From April 2010 local authorities will take forward funding of provision for 16-19 year olds. This conference for senior leaders in FE and secondary schools, local authorities, members of Regional Planning Groups and other experts, set out how the change has affected those involved and what is still to be expected.

Graduate Employability

What graduates need and employers want. Held at QEII Conference Centre, Westminster, London

This conference set out, for university and college management, how departments and courses can grow and how businesses can access and gain from talented student placements, internships and student engagement. Blogging or tweeting about this conference?  If you are blogging or sharing images and videos about this event using tools that support tagging, please use the tag graduates2010

Postgraduates

Access, Employer Needs, Student Experience and Competitiveness. 8th annual conference. Held at The Bloomsbury Hotel, London

This conference brought together key stakeholders from across the Higher Education sector and updated delegates on the latest progress and development on The Postgraduate Review.

The Role of Higher Education in the Regions

Held at the Bloomsbury Hotel, London

This annual conference set out how HEIs, businesses and government are working together in partnership focusing on career development of graduates and employees.

Connecting to Compete

A Global Seminar presented by The Chronicle of Higher Education in partnership with Policy Review TV. Held in Washington, District of Columbia, USA

Higher education is rapidly becoming intensely international and universities need to have strong identities to compete effectively in research and communication. This invitation only seminar explored ways to drive excellence in three areas: social media, research partnerships, and marketing. Speakers included:  ...

Apprenticeships Driving Business

Making the most of Apprenticeships. National conference held at The Bloomsbury Hotel, Great Russell Street, London

This conference, which took place during Apprenticeship Week, set out strategies for FE providers and businesses to align their offers with skills frameworks and benefit from Group Training Associations, Apprentice Training Associations and the ‘Good for Business’ initiatives.

The UK International Student Experience

Maintaining a rise in international students. 2nd annual conference. To be held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

This conference brought together senior education leaders involved in attracting international students and examined how to enhance the already world-class higher education experience they receive. Keynote speaker: Rt Hon David Lammy MP

FE HE Collaboration

Maintaining Successful Collaboration. Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

This conference provided the first opportunity to consider how cuts will affect collaboration between FE and HE, and the new challenges posed by developing funding methodologies.

Young People Not in Education, Employment or Training

2nd Annual Conference. Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

In 2010, the Government is making further help available to young people aged 18-24 through the Young Person's Guarantee of a job, training or a place in the Community Task Force for those who have been unemployed for a year.

Graduate Talent

Innovation and Skills for Competitiveness. To be held in central London

This conference will bring together thought leaders from government, industry and education to get information about the latest skills needs and discover new opportunities for collaboration in support of them.

Who pays?

Options for the future funding of higher education. To be held at One Great George Street, London

Filming by Policy Review TV

Investors in People

National conference held at Westminster Conference Centre, London

Building on the success of 2008, this year’s Investors in People 9th National Conference focused on the performance challenges faced by employers in the downturn. ACAS/CIPD guide on managing in a recession CLICK HERE  

Further Education and the International Market

Held in central London

Bringing together leaders in FE, this conference examined the operation and impact of the PBS. Delegates also heard how colleges and providers are developing long-term strategies to build partnerships, compete for international students and understand the demands of international markets.

Enhancing Student Experience

Held at Hilton London Metropole

This conference brought together higher education leaders to examine how to manage and exceed students' expectations in a challenging climate.

Effective Marketing in Higher Education

Held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London

Now in its 7th successful year, this conference brought together senior marketing and communications professionals to address the challenges facing higher education and discuss long term solutions to current issues.

Admissions to Higher Education

7th Annual Conference held at America Square Conference Centre

This event provided the key updates in admissions policy and assessed their impact on Higher Education.

Towards Ambition 2020: Skills, Jobs, Growth

central London

The UK Commission for Employment and Skills has published its proposals regarding the future development of modern skills and employment systems in the UK. These include ideas which address the need for further simplification in systems which are currently perceived to be too complex. The event was hosted by Sir Michael Rake, Chairman of the UK Commission for Employment and Skills and Chairman of BT Group plc. Chris Humphries, Chief Executi...

Employability for Scotland

3rd Annual Conference. Held at Radisson SAS, Edinburgh

This event looked at the long term challenges of skills development within an increasingly competitive global economy and considered responses to the needs of employers and individuals.

Invest for Greatness in Higher Education

Big Issues, Big Challenges - Beyond the fees debate. Held in central London

This conference looked at the challenges facing UK higher education and the strategic decisions VCs, principals, finance directors and other senior decision makers can take to ensure their institution prospers in the difficult restructuring ahead.

Enhancing Flexible Provision of Higher Education

National Conference held at the Barbican Centre, London

This conference brought together leaders in higher education and organisations to discuss students’ experience of, and attitudes towards, part-time study, its costs and student support.

Diplomas for 14-19 Year Olds

4th National Conference. Held at Hilton London Metropole

In 2013, all Diploma qualifications will be available; 17 Diplomas, three different levels, 51 different new qualifications. This conference brought together all those tasked with leading implementation to examine the first year, benchmark consortia progress, answer the critics and anticipate changes in the coming academic year.

Skills for Life

6th Annual National Conference. Held at Hallam Conference Centre, London

With a particular focus on employability, this event explored strategies to raise demand for literacy, language and numeracy amongst individuals and employers. Bringing together senior representatives from across the education, adult services, local authority and voluntary sectors the conference examined effective practice and strategies to boost the standard and demand of these vital basic skills.

UK Research

3rd Annual Conference. Held at The Bloomsbury Hotel, London

This conference evaluated the research funding allocations, the shift from the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) and provided guidance for all those concerned with sustaining research funding in their institutions.

HE, Health and Care Workforce Planning

Matching higher education to new roles. Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London W1

This national conference brought together higher education and health service leaders to find solutions to the challenges that may prevent them from having the right people in the right healthcare roles in the future.

Sustaining Higher Education Funding

Held in central London

This event discussed the critical role of higher education in turning around the economy and assessed the current financial implications and issues of sustainability. It brought together vice-chancellors, finance directors and other senior decision makers providing a platform to exchange and develop ideas in how to develop the way forward to ensure HEIs are able to tackle the question of sustainability and funding. Supported by:

Understanding International Student Choices

To be held in Scotland

A Policy Review Briefing supported by the 1994 Group for those involved with the recruitment of international students.

Further Education Leadership Summit

The Guardian 3rd Annual Conference. Keynote speaker David Willetts MP

Further education is going through its biggest change for over a decade in a time of economic turmoil: with new funding arrangements, new challenges in local communities and a central role in building skills and tackling the effects of the economic downturn. The Guardian 3rd Annual Further Educat...

Meeting Student Expectations

Increasing satisfaction or complaints? Warning signs for the smart HEI. Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

Student complaints, particularly from international students, are on the rise at over 10% a year. Even seemingly isolated complaints have the potential to significantly detract from the UK’s reputation for excellence in higher education. In light of the forthcoming Office of the Independent Adjudicator’s Pathway Project this conference brought together all those concerned with preventing and managing student complaints, inc...

Higher Education in the Regions 2009

5th Annual Conference. Held at Crowne Plaza, Birmingham

Supporting the economy through recession is one of the two key priorities set out by the Secretary of State in January 2009. The demand for new higher education skills, retraining, management training and regional capacity building, employer engagement and working with training and enterprise organisations will be imperative. This conference brought together leading speakers and organisations to set out policy, examine success stories and c...

FE-HE Collaborative Provision 2009

Annual conference held at Hilton London Metropole Hotel

This conference examined the latest information on strategies to increase collaboration and encouraged providers to adopt a more strategic approach to ensure provision is high quality, delivered in an appropriate environment, and facilitates student progression.

Universities and the Built Estate

Continuing sustainable development through an economic downturn. Held at the One America Square Conference Centre

This conference brought together leaders and senior managers in estates, facilities, learning and teaching, finance and organisational development to map the future direction of the HE sector and the implications for built estate planning and development to secure the future of institutions in the UK. Key speakers: David Strong, Chair, Directive Implementation Advisory Group and John Plumridge MRICS RIBA, Director of Projects, AIMS ltd....

Higher Education and Schools Partnerships

Widening Participation – making funding work. To be held at Thistle, Marble Arch, London and live on policyreview.tv

With colleges and universities working to avoid the surge in university applications pushing their widening participation mix, this conference brought together key decision makers from across the education and not for profit sectors and government to discuss strategies to make strong education partnerships and improve future aspirations amongst young people. Keynote address: Dr Roberta Blackman-Woods MP, Parliamentary Private Secretary to D...

International Student Experience in Higher Education

6th Annual Conference. Held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

Recruitment and retention of international students play an important role in the multiculturalism of UK universities. However, for UK institutions to become truly international and engaged in a globalised higher education sector, considerations have to go beyond attracting international students and take into account more complex challenges that will shape their experience in the UK.

Beyond Rankings: Building a Global Identity

APAIE Conference and Exhibition, Beijing China

This event, put together and moderated by David L. Wheeler, the managing editor of The Chronicle of Higher Education, provided an opportunity for delegates to hear from leading education institutions on how to compete on an international level and what makes universities world class. Mark Chong, Associate Professor of Corporate Communication Practice at Singapore Management University descri...

CBI / Nord Anglia Education and Skills Survey

held at CBI London

The CBI/Nord Anglia education and skills survey 2009 provides authoritative information on employers' views of education and skills issues. The survey found that employers remain committed to training to improve the performance of their business, with nine out of ten having a training and development plan. But in testing economic times, most firms (51%) were looking to target their training spend more effectively to achieve the greatest return...

Mainstreaming Apprenticeships 2009

The 14-19 Conference Series. Held at New Connaught Rooms, London

One in five young people are to undertake an apprenticeship by 2013 and by 2010/11 900,000 young people and adults are to have completed an apprenticeship. With investment of £1 billion over the next three years, government is boosting apprenticeship opportunities, supporting business and increasing quality of provision. The Children, Skills and Learning Bill will guarantee apprenticeship places for every suitable young person by 2013...

14-19 Diplomas 2009

2nd Annual Conference. Held at New Connaught Rooms, London

Diplomas sit at the heart of the Government’s drive to reform 14-19 education. With the first Diploma students now into their second term questions are being asked about Diploma delivery, where the qualification will lead to, and what type of students are taking them up. 12,000 students are currently enrolled in the Diploma programme, significantly fewer than initial and then revised predictions, some of whom will begin their applicat...

14-19 Funding 2009

2nd Annual Conference. Held at New Connaught Rooms, London

The machinery of government changes has created much uncertainty and speculation regarding the impact of switching funding from the Learning and Skills Council to Local Authorities. New challenges and opportunities will face all those involved in the strategic management of funding in Further Education. Bringing together senior leaders in schools and FE, work based learning providers, Local Authorities, children’s services, diploma co...

Leading Through Teaching and Learning

Held at Hilton London Metropole

This one day conference for leaders and decision makers in the further education sector explored how to enable the sector successfully to focus strategies on teaching and learning. The conference provided a platform to exchange ideas, discuss hurdles to teaching and learning and offered expert views, practical examples and advice. It showcased institutions and organisations who are successfully centred around teaching and learning, demonst...

Student Retention and Progression

4th Annual Conference held at the Barbican Centre, London

The current figure for non-completion of higher education courses sits at around 22 percent. As the number of 18 year olds declines and with students facing tougher financial and academic circumstances, this presents a serious challenge for higher education to improve strategies to maintain and improve student retention. The current financial climate is raising questions about the validity of higher education as a career path. Colleges and ...

14-19 Skills for Employability

Equipping young people for the world of employment. Held at America Square Conference Centre, London

By 2014 two-thirds of jobs will require at least level three qualifications and by 2020 an additional 20 million people will require higher skills levels than at present. In an economically challenged and increasingly competitive market it is vital that young people are fully equipped with the right skills and abilities to operate in a world of increased competitiveness and unlimited opportunity. In anticipation of government raising the le...

The Higher Education Summit 2009

Choices Beyond 2010. Held at QEII Conference Centre, London

The Higher Education sector is becoming more stratified, as funding changes increasingly mean that no institution can deliver to all students. Institutions must choose their future market segment and unique University Selling Points. Timed at the beginning of an important year, which includes the review of student finance and fees, the Summit gave a comprehensive update on the latest policy issues, from the incoming Research Excellence Fram...

Postgraduate Conference

7th annual conference. Held at America Square Conference Centre, London

Postgraduate education is essential to the health and well-being of all higher education institutions as well as a fundamental contributor to the world class skills that the UK needs to maintain its position in the global economy. While the number of postgraduate enrolments and qualifications completed continue to increase, the recent DIUS commissioned reviews of higher education have highlighted the vulnerability of research careers in the...

International Higher Education Partnerships

Held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London

Overseas delivery currently accounts for 200,000 international students following UK higher education programmes. By 2010 it is likely that demand for trans-national education will be greater than for international students seeking an overseas campus based experience, meaning that successful international partnerships between higher education institutions are going to be vital to the sector. This conference brought together Vice-chancellors...

Skills for Work in the Economic Downturn

Empowering people to gain and maintain employment. To be held at the Barbican Conference Centre, London EC2

In economically difficult times, skills for work and employment are drivers for economic growth and social cohesion and are vital to ensure that the UK economy is well equipped to compete in the global market. The Government has announced £100m extra funding over the next three years for people to gain the right skills and to enable access to training and re-training to ensure employment is further increased. The future UK economy dep...

FE Colleges and the International Market

3rd Annual Conference held at the Barbican Centre, London

The 53,000 international students currently enrolled in UK Further Education make a significant contribution to their colleges and their local economies. However, from March 2009 all colleges teaching non European Economic Area (EEA) students must have a licence issued by the UK Border Agency. To maintain and enhance its market share UK Further Education is challenged to operate in a rapidly changing global student market and to take advant...

Higher Education and 14-19 Reforms Conference

Matching access to expectations: implications for higher education. Held at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London

Higher education strongly influences the choices made by 14-19 year-olds and their parents. The involvement and support of higher education institutions will be critical to the success of both Diplomas and wider 14-19 reforms. The introduction of Diplomas and reforms to 14-19 qualifications will have a direct impact on higher education institutions. All universities must publish course-specific entry requirements for revised A-levels and Di...

FE Reputation and Excellence

To be held at America Square Conference Centre, London

The machinery of government changes, proposed in the ‘Raising Expectations’ white paper, require the further education sector to tackle new challenges and to prove its excellence. The restructuring of the sector and the shift of funding responsibilities to local authorities also means that the sector has more opportunities then ever to take hold of its own fortune and further build its reputation. Strong leadership is needed in ...

Upskilling the Workforce 09

3rd Annual Conference. America Square Conference Centre, London

Two years on from the Leitch Review, the key challenge for education and training providers remains engaging with employers in order to understand, and meet, their skills and training demands. Demographers are predicting a rapid decrease of young people entering the labour market – some 500,000 fewer over coming years. If the UK economy is to keep pace with its main global competitors, and secure future business productivity and indiv...

Enhancing the Student Experience

Student satisfaction with their Higher Education experience is critical to the future of all HE institutions. As the National Student Survey and Unistats provide more information about the student experience, better-informed undergraduate students will become more discerning about where to study and whether to recommend their university. Universities must make planned, strategic responses now to secure their future reputation and market pos...

Effective Marketing in Higher Education

6th Annual Conference

Market pressures in higher education are increasing rapidly with changing demographics, growing global competition and higher financial investments making students more demanding customers. Effective marketing to attract and retain students is paramount. Institutions face demands to engage with their regional community, particularly with business, and at the same time need to ensure that they set themselves apart on a national market. Inter...

Admissions to Higher Education

6th Annual Conference

Since 2006 significant progress has been made in improving the HE admissions process and enhancing the provision of information for applicants and universities to create a fairer, more transparent and efficient applications system. While improving the progress of school leavers into HE remains a high priority, with the number of 18 to 20-year-olds projected to fall sharply from 2009, HE must be opened up to those currently in the workforce,...

Part-Time Study in Higher Education

4th Annual Conference held at The Barbican Centre, London

This conference looked at the challenges part-time study in higher education will have to face and brought together Vice-Chancellors and Pro Vice-Chancellors, Heads of Departments and other senior decision makers from across the sector. Delegates heard about and debated the changes to ELQ funding, encouraging participation in part-time study and building collaborative provision with employers to deliver responsive and flexible qualification...

Skills and Employment Summit

National Conference held at Park Plaza, Cardiff

Although Wales is outperforming the rest of the UK in the achievement of vital skills, it is essential that developing skills and employment opportunities remains at the top of the agenda. This would ensure that Wales can meet the challenges of an ever evolving economy, and to achieve the Welsh Assembly's target of raising the employment rate to 80%. Following the announcement of the Welsh Assembly's Welsh Skills and Employment stra...

Ensuring Student Safety and Security

Promoting Safe, Secure and Cohesive Campuses held at Jury's Great Russell Street Hotel, London

Research regularly suggests that one in three students is a victim of crime at university every year, most commonly of burglary, theft and mugging. Living away from home for the first time, students often have little experience of crime prevention methods, and this, coupled with the portable high-value goods prevalent in the student population (students took possessions worth some £2.5bn to university in 2005), makes them likely targe...

Enterprise and Innovation in HE

Enhancing employer engagement, meeting global challenges held at the Royal Society, London

The demand for higher education to be responsive to business and to develop not only more employable but also more enterprising graduates is a priority for both the Government and funding councils. Underlying this policy push is an assumption that universities and colleges just need to respond to business demand but the Council for Industry and Higher Education (CIHE) questions this demand/supply approach. This conference considered how uni...

CBI Education Summit 2008

Held at the QEII Conference Centre, London

This CBI Education Summit mapped the skills needs of local and national business and set out for employers, schools and colleges how best to build sustainable education-business partnerships. In the context of increasing global economic competitiveness and a more flexible and demand-led 14-19 landscape, delegates explored the latest policy developments – including apprenticeships and recognising in-house employer training – that...

3rd Annual 14-19 Diplomas Conference

Held at New Connaught Rooms, London

Diplomas remain at the heart of the Government's ambitious 14-19 reforms to enhance retention and achievement amongst young people. By combining theoretical and practical learning and requiring a collaborative approach, schools, colleges, local authorities, higher education and employers need to come together to equip young people with the skills required for success in work and life. This conference brought together key decision makers...

Global Perspective

A Festschrift conference for Professor Sir Colin Campbell on 'The Internationalisation of Higher Education' held at The University of Nottingham

The impact of rapid globalisation and growth of powerful emerging economies is altering trends and demand in international education and universities today cooperate but also compete on a global scale. This conference was held in recognition of The Vice-Chancellor of The University of Nottingham, Professor Sir Colin Campbell, and his contribution to the internationalisation of higher education. It attracted delegates from across UK higher educ...

Skills for Life

5th Annual Conference held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

By 2020 it is predicted that 85% of jobs will require level three or above skills and competencies. With almost 30% of the working age population lacking level 2 skills and 1.5 million fewer people taking up adult learning in the last two years, improving the basic skills of the nation’s hardest to reach will be critical. This conference brought together leaders and senior managers from further education, adult learning services, loca...

Strategic Leadership in HE through integrated IT and library services

Held at the University of Salford, Manchester

Integrated IT and Library Services have become a central part in the running of HEIs. They are playing an important role in developing modern services, enhancing the student experience, help to enable non-traditional and work-based students to participate in HE and allow for institutions to rely on innovative solutions for sustainable strategic planning and change management. The Government’s drive to ensure that HEIs are able to prov...

Creating Enterprising Colleges

Building enterprise knowledge and skills to unlock talent. Held at CCT Venues-Smithfield, London

Further education is the natural home of enterprise, connecting academic and vocational students with business in a flexible environment. Building both broad enterprise knowledge and specific skills is crucial to unlocking the UK’s entrepreneurial talent and to raising productivity. For FE institutions, building a reputation for enterprise will be vital to drive college improvement, enhance employer engagement, improve student retenti...

Why Government education initiatives work – or don’t

The evidence base for policy-making. Held at the House of Commons, London

Jointly hosted by Barry Sheerman MP and Cambridge Assessment, this seminar provided an opportunity to listen to experts who have evaluated the success or failure of recent government initiatives and question them on the broad, high-level principles of what makes a successful initiative. The event - part of a Cambridge Assessment series designed to bring together a wide range of professionals in education to look at ‘big picture’ topics and...

Higher Education Funding

Held at New Connaught Rooms, London

Higher education is facing ever more complex demands, to build financial capability, diversify funding and to create institutions that are sustainable and create economic value. This conference brought together Vice-Chancellors, Finance Directors and senior decision makers in HE concerned with the challenges of higher education funding. It addressed the need to increase financial capability to establish a basis for future funding through fees ...

Further Education and Skills

The Guardian 2nd Annual Summit held at QEII Conference Centre, London

Further education and skills are essential assets for the future and the backbone of education and skills policy in the UK. The Leitch and Foster Reviews set out policies which depend on FE and skills to improve economic growth, productivity and to meet the demand to make the UK the leading knowledge economy over the next decade. It falls principally to the FE and skills sector to deliver if the UK is to remain competitive. Following the sp...

Student Satisfaction

2nd Annual Conference held at Cavendish Conference Centre, London

In an era of more demanding consumer students, who are increasingly focused on employability outcomes, quality and managing student expectations have become key concerns for all universities that want to succeed in the increasingly competitive student admissions and retention market. This national conference brought together policy makers, student support professionals and student representatives with senior HE administrators and legal expe...

Welcome UK 2008

Improving Tourism and Hospitality Skills. Held at Marriott Hotel City Centre, Liverpool

The hospitality, leisure, travel and tourism industries are worth approximately £85 billion to the UK economy. The National Skills Strategy set out an action plan for the industry to ensure it has the skills and infrastructure it needs to sustain its contribution to the UK’s economic prosperity. This conference looked at how together the skills sector, employers and tourist boards can deliver the Government’s priorities an...

Employability for Scotland

2nd Annual Conference held at Mcdonald Holyrood Hotel, Edinburgh

To meet the challenge of the global marketplace it is essential that Scotland drives excellence in the workplace and is equipped with a skilled, successful and diverse workforce. Following the announcement of the government's lifelong skills strategy, this conference set out how to improve employability skills to ensure that Scotland can compete in the rapidly changing economic environment by addressing the balance between academic and ...

The Role of Higher Education in the Regions

4th Annual Conference held at the Midland Hotel, Manchester

The crucial role Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) play in their regions already contributes £45bn to the UK economy and will be a prime determinant of economic success in the future. Often the largest employers and land-owners in a region, universities are a key driving force in innovation and economic regeneration. Alongside their core mission of research and teaching, HEIs provide new ideas, services, skills and facilities to su...

Universities and the Built Estate

3rd Annual Conference held at Inmarsat Conference Centre, London

The university estate is an institution’s largest expenditure after staff and HEIs are often the largest single landowners in a local authority area. Effectively planning and maintaining a modern, sustainable estate, building on current success and managing assets well, is crucial to the success and future of a university. This annual conference is the largest gathering of HE leaders and senior managers across estates, finance and sus...

5th Annual International Student Conference

Delivering excellence, meeting global challenges. Held at the Barbican Centre, London

International students add great value to courses and campuses in the UK. However,attracting them is becoming more complex and providing services that fit the needs of international students is key for UK institutions to stay competitive on a global scale. Developing sustainable strategies and joining forces in partnerships on a regional, national and global scale are the basis to ensure the UK can meet future challenges. Being a world clas...

Higher Education and School Partnerships

Widening participation through targeted management. Held at the Barbican Centre, London

Partnerships between HE and schools sit at the heart of the Government’s commitment to widening participation. Academies and Trust Schools are the next steps towards formalising longstanding local partnerships. If the Government’s objective of raising participation in HE towards 50% of those aged 18-30 is to be achieved these partnerships will become the key opportunity to nurture, influence and inspire the undergraduates of tom...

14-19 Reform - a Global Perspective

Education policy around the world: innovations in 14-19 reform held at Lancaster House, London

Hosted by Cambridge Assessment and attended by international educationalists, this seminar addressed the challenges in reforming 14 -19 education across the globe. All around the world countries are reforming what they offer to their young people as they come into the last few years of their school education. In the UK this is often referred to as ’14 - 19 Reform’, but the same processes are taking place under different names across the gl...

Expanding and Delivering Apprenticeships

National Conference held at Thistle Marble Arch Hotel, London

Expanding and delivering apprenticeships is an essential building block in the Government’s wider agenda of ensuring world class skills by 2020 and diversifying the learning offer to keep young people participating until age 18. The Government has set the target of increasing apprenticeship numbers to 500,000 by 2020, has promised an apprenticeship entitlement for every qualified young person who wants one, and has committed to a 25% ...

14-19 Diplomas: Signposting the Future

Held at New Connaught Rooms, London

The new Diplomas are at the heart of the Government’s drive to reform 14-19 education. By mixing practical and theoretical learning they bridge the academic/vocational divide and represent the most significant change to UK education since the introduction of GCSEs. This national, one day conference was an opportunity for policy and decision makers involved with Diplomas to get to grips with the latest developments and examine the key ...

14-19 Funding Conference

Local Authorities, Schools and Colleges working together. Held at New Connaught Rooms, London

Moving the responsibility for £7bn of 16-19 funding from the Learning and Skills Council to Local Authorities from 2010/11 has significant implications for strategic leadership, planning and delivery of young people's learning in the FE and Skills sector. Attended by senior leaders in schools and colleges, Local Authorities and Children's Services, work-based learning providers, diploma consortia and other decision makers and ...

Student Retention and Progression in Higher Education

3rd annual conference held at the Barbican Centre, London

Retaining students and working to ensure they succeed is at the core of widening participation as higher education opens up to increased numbers and a greater diversity of students. This conference, which brought together senior managers and policy makers from across the higher education sector, provided an opportunity to hear a policy update and for delegates to learn more about the £246 million funding that HEFCE will provide for in...

FE-HE Collaborative Provision Annual Conference 2008

Developing Strategies for the Future. Held at Jurys Great Russell street Hotel, London

HE-FE provision is a growing and increasingly diverse sector, presenting key growth opportunities for institutions against the backdrop of the Training and Education Act and the Leitch skills agenda. Currently HE in FE Colleges accounts for over 10% of all HE provision, and FE-HE Collaboration now forms an essential part of the strategy of all colleges and universities planning for change over the next 5-10 years. This national conference e...

6th Annual Postgraduate Conference

Held at the Barbican Centre, London

The continued expansion and diversification of postgraduate education demands that universities develop strategies to ensure a competitive postgraduate offer and a responsive student experience. Universities must grasp the Leitch agenda and be prepared to manage the challenges of new student experience demands, changing funding streams and implementing the changes from the Bologna processes to maintain credible and sustainable growth. This ...

Welfare-To-Work 2008

3rd Annual Conference held at The Royal Society of Medicine, London

Despite the UK’s relatively high employment levels, there remain 4.5 million working age people not in employment. With an increasing focus on devolved responses, better partnership working and personalised approaches, this conference examined the latest policy developments, strategies for multi-agency working and case studies of successful projects that break down the barriers to sustained employment. Attended by senior representativ...

2nd Annual UK Research Conference

Maintaining Excellence and Global Competitiveness. Held at Jury's Great Russell Street Hotel, London

Future developments of research in the UK are dominating the debate in higher education. Research excellence is a vital factor for the UK economy and the competitiveness of UK higher education and research on a global scale. This high profile conference for vice-chancellors, senior university directors and managers, research councils, funding bodies, government departments and a range of business representatives gave delegates the opportuni...

14-19 Skills for Employability

4th annual conference held at Jury's Great Russell Street Hotel, London

Brings together senior representatives from across the learning and skills sector, local authorities and regional and sector specific agencies to consider the latest thinking, government policy, and good practice in equipping young people with the work-related and life skills they and the economy need for the future. In light of the Leitch Implementation Plan, the Education and Skills Bill and the proposal to raise the compulsory participat...

Leading Through Teaching and Learning

National one day conference held at Lords Cricket Ground, London

Brings together decision makers, leaders and senior experts in the field of further education to explore how to lead through teaching and learning. This interactive conference provides a platform for discussion and debate on how to enable effective and efficient development strategies and solutions. There is a focus on teaching and learning, sharing best practice and facilitating opportunities to develop ideas and concrete solutions. Speakers ...

The Guardian HE Summit 2008

The Business of Higher Education. Two day event held at QEII Conference Centre, Westminster

This major strategic conference for higher education leaders, senior directors and managers examines and sets out the vision of where and what UK HE should be in the next 5 - 10 years, and then explores how to make it a reality. Offering the largest discussion and networking event for university leaders and senior managers in the UK, the annual summit is designed to provide insight and solutions to the challenges ahead, map out the current ...

Developing Excellence in Further Education

2nd Annual National Conference held at Jurys Hotel, London

Of interest to anyone involved in the improvement of further education provision. This conference includes a policy update and reports from the new pilots and projects that are being rolled out across the country, including the Quality Improvement Strategy, the Learning and Skills Council's Framework for Excellence Pilot and the Technology Exemplar Network Programme. The government is committed to continuing improvement and striving for...

University and business collaboration

With the Lambert Review the seeds for universities collaboration with the private sector were sown and the Leitch Review is pushing the agenda further. Skills for the economy, knowledge transfer, research collaboration, employer engagement: these are just some of the major themes that need to be addressed by HEIs and private business together in the future. Formal research collaboration is a valued income stream for UK universities at almos...

Enhancing the Student Experience

The podcasted keynote address from Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills Rt. Hon. John Denham MP covers the importance of the student experience in deciding the future prosperity of the nation and the pressing need for universities and employers to listen to each other better. He also gives more details about the new national student forum and criticises David Willetts's comments about the QAA.

Admissions to Higher Education

The key challenge, as identified by the Schwartz and Wilson Reviews, remains the development of fair, transparent and professional admissions policies and procedures that not only enable students to make well-informed, effective HE applications but also enable universities to select candidates who will be able to finish the course whilst simultaneously minimising barriers to admissions and widening access. As the first cohort of students ma...

Realising the Global University

Chaired by former BBC Education Correspondent Mike Baker this conference examined internationalisation strategies and the challenge of restructuring higher education; outlined the needs for transformational change; re-envisioned roles of universities in the 21st Century; and determined what institutional leaders need to do in order to compete effectively.

Effective Marketing in Higher Education

As marketing and communications play an ever more important role within Higher Education institutions are increasingly putting marketing at the heart of their strategic planning, and considering marketing and communications a key part of all senior management team members’ roles. Chaired by former BBC education man Mike Baker the podcasts from this event include addresses by: Caroline Gipps, Vice Chancellor of the University of Wolver...

Regional Skills and Employment

David Lammy MP Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Skills, Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills was the keynote speaker at this one-day conference which explored best practice and examined policies to meet the regional skills and training needs of both employers and employees.

Part-Time Study in Higher Education

This event examined how to effectively enable part-time students to access and succeed in Higher Education. Attendees included vice-chancellors, principals, chief executives, senior education staff and organisations concerned with part-time study, widening participation and student finance and support. The podcasts available include the keynote address by Lord Triesman, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Intellectual Property and Qu...

FE Colleges and the International Market

Main speakers - RT. HON. CHARLES CLARKE MP and Dr Swati Kulkarni First Secretary (Political & Education), High Commission of India

This important conference examined how colleges can develop and implement the long-term strategies required to compete in the international market.

Delivering Vocational Skills

The Engineering and Technology Board - 2nd Annual Skills Conference

The provision of economically valuable skills is one of the greatest challenges facing education providers and industry stakeholders in the science, engineering and technology (SET) sector. If the key Leitch recommendation of world-class skills by 2020 are to be acheived, employers and the skills sector must work closely in partnership to equip the workforce with the Level 3-5 SET skills UK plc needs. The recent budget announcement that sci...

Reputation Management in Further Education

Since the 2006 FE White Paper - building on the Foster Review, and the FE and Training Bill - the Leitch Review has picked up the baton and endorsed the development towards a demand-led FE sector. Learner choice and access to high quality learning options, employer engagement and achieving excellence are the core aims set out by the National Improvement Strategy. The sector is set to drive it's own improvement and with the recently anno...

2nd Annual 14-19 Diplomas Conference

Planning and delivering the universal entitlement: next steps for 2008 and beyond

THIS IS A PODCAST AND DOCUMENT ONLY EVENT The 2nd Annual 14-19 Diplomas conference brought together an audience of over 400 consortia members, including senior managers from FE colleges, schools, Local Authorities, central government, awarding bodies, universities, and private and voluntary providers. With just one year to go before a predicted 40,000 young people embark on the first five lines of learning, this important conference provide...

The Guardian Further Education and Skills Summit 2007

The learning and skills landscape is experiencing a period of intense and rapid change. The Leitch Review of Skills, the Further Education and Training Bill, and recent DfES green paper ‘Raising Expectations’, set out new challenges for the sector, signalling a major move towards a demand-led system and setting out the aim that all young people will remain in some form of education or training until they're 18. The developme...

The Guardian Higher Education Summit 2007

The first annual Guardian Higher Education Summit for leaders and senior managers in UK higher education examined the global, financial, research, educational and civic challenges facing higher education in the UK.

The summit provided an integrated and comprehensive update on the latest policy and insight into future developments, and set out how the leading higher education institutions in the world are tackling the changes in higher education and research. It also examined the solutions they are developing, the consequences for public policy, and the future shape and sustainability of higher education institutions in the UK. Speakers included: Bill Ra...

Effective Marketing in Higher Education

This presentation addresses what branding means in today's highly-pressured environment. There is a new competitive context for university brands, and new challenges that will drive brand development: the presentation exphasises the importance of clarity and accuracy of information, and an integrity of purpose for an institution's brand. It outlines the links between brand and reputation, and points out that reputation is created by...

Further Education and Skills Inspection

This policy and management briefing contains presentations from college leaders and OFSTED inspectors, providing a unique resource for institutions approaching inspection, or simply seeking to improve processes, practices and data in order to be inspection-ready. Inspections are a fundamental part of college life, and can be an opportunity to promote best practice and initiate organisational change. With detailed case studi...

Higher Education and Schools Partnerships

This management policy briefing contains carefully selected presentations from experts in building and maintaining partnerships between Higher Education Institutions and schools. Following the government's changes to tuition fees and the requirement for HEIs to draw up access agreements, outreach and widening participation activities have never been more important. But building successful partnerships...

Shared Services in higher education

This policy briefing contains carefully selected video presentations, a detailed research index and supporting documents, including case studies. The briefing is an ideal training tool for senior managers covering the key areas of policy development, future strategy and best practice. This online service enables you and your team to access the material at any time or place.

Summary This policy briefing contains presentations from experts who explain their experiences of shared services. For institutions faced with funding cuts this briefing outlines how effiency savings can create major opportunities for new business development. The pack, which highlights the opportunities and pitfalls of using shared services, includes feasibility studies and real life case s...