GuildHE is hosting a small session with members of the REF Team and REF Panels to discuss emerging work on the assessment of Strategy, People and Research Environment (SPRE).

The session will be led by Helena Mills, REF Director, and will focus on sharing the overall direction and emerging shape of SPRE assessment ahead of the next round of criteria phase sub‑panel meetings. 

This is a candid discussion to share the current direction of travel for SPRE assessment. UKRI's REF team will be looking into GuildHE Research members' inputs to help ensure that the developing model is robust, workable, and reflective of sector diversity.

The REF Team and panels are working to a tight timetable and this session will support targeted feedback on clarity, risks, and implementation rather than fundamental design questions.

Format

This session is intended for PVCRs (or equivalent). A maximum of two (2) representatives per GuildHE Research member institution attends, with institutions free to decide who is best placed to represent them.

  • No advance preparation is required. 
  • The session will combine short presentations and workshops on defined aspects of the SPRE approach. 
  • This session will be online, joining details to follow on confirmation.

Indicative agenda

  • 11:00 Welcome - GuildHE Research
  • 11:05 Framing and context - Helena Mills, UKRI
  • 11:15 SPRE approach and relationship to unit-level SPRE - Duncan Shermer, UKRI
  • 11:30 Role and work with the working group (WG) - WG representatives (to be finalised)
  • 11:45 Structured discussion and workshop on defined aspects - Breakout session
  • 12:30 Further Q&A
  • Around 12:45 Close

Available to GuildHE Research members and some relevant GuildHE Member Networks only. To learn more about how to join membership, please email [email protected]