Is going to university still worth it? A widening participation student’s view
University offers invaluable opportunities — from diverse friendships to unique experiences like placements abroad — despite the challenges students face today.
Blog
The HEPI Blog aims to make brief, incisive contributions to the higher education policy landscape. It is circulated to our subscribers and published online. We welcome guest submissions, which should follow our Instructions for Blog Authors. Submissions should be sent to our Blog Editor, Josh Freeman, at [email protected].
Renters’ Rights Bill Update – into the Lords
The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces key changes for students, balancing improved protections with potential challenges in guarantor use and rent deposits.
WEEKEND READING: Change is our ally by Professor Sir Chris Husbands
This blog has been kindly written for HEPI by Professor Sir Chris Husbands, who was Vice-Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University between 2016 and 2023, and is now a Director of Higher Futures, working with university leaders to lead sustainable solutions to institutional challenges. The scale of the funding challenge in higher education…
The higher education sector should welcome the new proposals on franchise provision but still act to hold the Office for Students and Ministers to account – by Professor Nick Braisby
The Regulation of Franchise Provision The Government have opened a consultation on the regulation of franchise provision, proposing that all franchisees (delivery partners) with more than 300 students should be regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). Smaller providers will not need to be regulated; larger providers that the OfS does not…
Degree Apprenticeships in England: What Can We Learn from the Experiences of Apprentices, Employers, and Education and Training Providers?
The Edge Foundation's new report explores the rapid growth of Degree Apprenticeships, their challenges, and policy recommendations to enhance access, employer engagement, and regulatory efficiency.
Rachel Reeves and the Oxford-Cambridge Arc: Right time. Right place. Long live the Growth Corridor!
The idea of a growth corridor between Oxford and Cambridge announced today is not new. Our region was fortunate with the announcements today: being ready, and in the right place at the right time armed with a good piece of policy background from Public First and Rachel Wolf. While it…
Making better decisions on student financial support
Universities must rethink financial support strategies, using data-driven insights to address student needs and improve retention outcomes.
The Office for Students needs to walk and chew gum – by Jo Johnson
This blog is by Jo Johnson, Executive Chairman of FutureLearn, a Member of the Council of the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology and a Visiting Professor of King’s College London. He served as Universities and Science Minister under David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson. There’s plenty to like…
Exporting Degrees, Importing Responsibility: Rethinking Careers Support for International Graduates
Universities must support international graduates beyond campus life, empowering them to thrive globally and transform industries and communities.
Transforming Education in the Age of AI: Challenges and Opportunities
Generative AI is reshaping education by lowering barriers to access, demanding pedagogical innovation, and driving lifelong learning transformation.