GuildHE has set out its priorities for whichever party ends up in government. These priorities aim to ensure that our higher education sector continues to offer students world leading education, excellent support and real choice.

Our priorities include:

  • Support for part time degrees and more flexible ways of learning such as shorter and on line courses, which would make it easier for carers and people already in work to gain higher qualifications or broaden their skills.
  • A significant period of implementation to ensure a smooth transition for EU students and staff in universities and colleges following any changes affecting higher education  as a result of Brexit.
  • A continuation of the drive to raise teaching standards in universities and colleges.
  • Ensuring “creativity” is embedded in the UK education system from an early age to maintain and enhance the UK’s position as a world leader in the creative industries.

Gordon Mckenzie, Chief Executive, GuildHE said:

Being able to access higher education at any age or stage in life is crucial for people wanting to develop their skills, change job or take a new direction. Part time and flexible higher education are good for them and good for the economy. But the evidence is that older and part time learners are precisely the people who are put off by student loans. Government needs to put resources, including from the apprenticeship levy, into making part time study cheaper and easier to access.

You can read the full priorities here: HE 2022.