How have the Conservatives shaped higher education during their time in government?

A general election has been called for July 4, 2024. Regardless of your political affiliation, there's a widespread expectation that this election will bring an end to 14 years of Conservative rule. As an observer, not a political commentator, here are my reflections on the Conservative government's impact on higher education and my thoughts on what any new government must do to address the significant challenges facing the sector.?

14 Years of Conservative Rule?

Since the Conservatives came to power in 2010 (initially in coalition with the Liberal Democrats), we've seen:?

• 5 Prime Ministers
• 7 different portfolios responsible for higher education
• 12 Secretaries of State for Education (averaging a new minister every 9.5 months since 2019)

Despite a period marked by considerable instability and change, 14 years is ample time to effect significant change. Here's a (non-exhaustive) summary of key events and policies that shaped higher education during this era:?

• 2010: The Browne Report was published recommending removal of direct public funding for most undergraduate courses, and the House of Commons voted to increase full-time undergraduate fees in England from ￡3,290 to ￡9,000 per year (now ￡9,250);?
• 2011: The Education Act was passed which included the introduction of loan arrangements, provision for a rate of interest to be applied to student loans and capped fees for part time students;?
• 2012: The Richard Review of Apprenticeships recommended a focus on outcomes and assessment (among other things), ultimately resulting in increased employer involvement in the development of standards and the creation of End Point Assessment;?
• 2013: A new student finance system was implemented to account for the increase in student tuition fees and included changes to repayment terms, thresholds and duration;?
• 2014: Caps on university places were increased by 30,000;?
• 2015: Caps on places were removed and the Prevent Duty introduced;?
• 2016: The Brexit referendum?
• 2017: The Higher Education and Research Act was passed establishing the Office for Students, and the Apprenticeship Levy was introduced for large employers;?
• 2018: The Office for Students (OfS) was launched;?
• 2019: The Augar Review of post-18 education was published, ultimately resulting in the freezing of tuition fees up to 2024/25, changes to student loan repayment thresholds and two consultations on policy and life long learning entitlement respectively;?
• 2020: T-Levels were introduced, and of course, the Covid-19 pandemic changed the world as we knew it;?
• 2021: The continued response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the continuation of student provision, primarily through remote learning for the majority of students;?
• 2022: Post-pandemic recovery; the QAA ceased to act as the Designated Quality Body for the OfS citing conflicts with international standards in quality assurance;?
• 2023: The Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill became law; the announcement of the intention to scrap T-Levels (from 2025); and the Lifelong Learning Bill to be introduced (to roll out from 2025);?
• 2024: Curbs on international student visas introduced while maintaining the graduate route visa.??

Throughout these years, higher education also became a battleground for political and cultural conflicts – the ‘hostile environment’ rhetoric of then Home Secretary Theresa May, culture wars, woke-ism, elitism, the value of expertise, and (a sector favourite) attacks on ‘Mickey Mouse’ degrees. ?

It’s my opinion that the politicisation of higher education has arguably diminished our international reputation somewhat, reflected in declining international student numbers and reduced access to EU research funds and projects. It has also resulted in universities facing financial peril, and the public perception of higher education's value seems to be at an all-time low.?

A sector in crisis?

With such challenges facing the sector, what should a new administration prioritise? I’m sure there are many, but I propose the following as critical areas of focus to being with:??

University financing?

• A sustainable funding model is crucial to ensure universities can continue to operate and innovate. This includes reviewing tuition fees and exploring alternative funding mechanisms.???

Commitment to internationalisation?

• Rebuilding our international reputation involves welcoming international students and researchers, participating in global research initiatives, and fostering international partnerships.???

Prioritising student well-being and success?

• Mental health services, career support, and inclusive policies are vital to ensure students thrive during their studies and beyond.???

Streamlining education?

• Simplifying pathways from education to employment, enhancing vocational training, lifelong learning and ensuring qualifications meet industry needs.?

Rehabilitating brand UK?

• Promoting the UK's educational offerings and research excellence globally, especially post-Brexit, to attract talent and investment.?

?Future-proofing education?

• Integrating environmental sustainability into curricula and operations, and adapting to technological advancements, including AI and future skills training.?

So now what?

The upcoming election represents a pivotal moment for the higher education sector. With the right focus and policies, a new government can begin to address existing challenges and pave the way for a resilient and innovative future for higher education in the UK. With the combined economic output of UK higher education estimated to be ￡116 billion (1), any new government would do well to provide stable leadership and practical reforms to help steady the sector. Whether through funding reform, international collaboration, or embracing new technologies, the future of UK higher education hinges on stable, proactive and informed leadership.?

What have I missed? What would you add? Where do you disagree? Let me know in the comments....