The Government has today issued its grant letter to HEFCE providing information on the funding for the 2011/2012 academic year.

Andy Westwood, CEO of GuildHE, commented:

“GuildHE welcomes the recognition of the need to support small and specialist institutions. Looking beyond 2011, smaller, distinctive, student-focussed institutions are well prepared to meet the challenges of enhancing student choice and provide an excellent student experience.

“It is important to have an indication of future funding to help institutions to plan ahead. As we enter the last year before the dramatic reforms of the funding system, stability will be critical.

“However, there is a major challenge in cuts to funding when coupled with the transition to the dramatically different and untested system.

“The risks remain significant – to individual institutions and to their communities and local economies. There are also risks for students and despite a continuing increase in demand for high level skills, there will be no extra places to meet their demands."

For more information and comment, please contact:

Andy Westwood
Tel: 020 7387 7711
Mobile: 07970 007142
Email: andy.westwood@guildhe.ac.uk

Notes to editors
GuildHE is a recognised higher education representative body. Its 32 members are among the most dynamic and fastest-growing institutions in the sector. Members