Can UK universities survive and thrive? | Research for the Real World
As headlines warn of university closures and staff cuts, Professor Huw Morris offers a deeper look at the forces reshaping UK higher education. In conversation with Dr Elin Arfon, he explains why some institutions are struggling more than others, and what role government, regulation, and research can play in building resilience. They also explore the growing shift toward tertiary education and skills development, and what this means for future students.Useful links from this episode: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/news/2025/aug/can-uk-universities-survive-and-thrive-rftrw-s25e03Image: Alarichall / Wikimedia Commons
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Professional learning – it's not just from the neck up! | The Staffroom
In this episode, Louise Stoll tells us her story of 'improve-isation'.Louise tells Mark and Elaine about her career to date.She talks about the importance of building capacity for learning and supporting pupils to thrive in an uncertain future."You need people to enable you to take risks, to say it's not going to be perfect the first time.It really is important for leaders at all levels to encourage people to try things out and to be there to support and to learn."Full show notes and transcript: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/news/2025/jul/professional-learning-its-not-just-neck-staffroom-s05e06
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Britain's got (international student) talent - but what do they really think of them? | Research for the Real World
In this episode, Dr Benjamin Abrams speaks with Hend Aly and Dr Heather Rolfe about their research into public attitudes and how these views shape migration policy and the future of higher education. They explore surprising findings from their report, the role of media narratives, and the strategic challenges facing UK universities.With global competition for talent heating up, this conversation dives into what's at stake for the UK’s academic and economic future.Full show notes and links to research to follow.
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Wellbeing? Don't give me things to pretty up my life | The Staffroom
What does supporting teacher wellbeing look like? And how can school leaders create a culture of wellbeing?Samantha O'Sullivan's research finds that teacher wellbeing is found in authentic recognition of their work, appropriate CPD, time to do the job well, good colleague relationships, and autonomy to make decisions for themselves.In other words, all things that leaders can influence for the better."Good leadership is what's supporting wellbeing... The core, the centre of it, is a culture of good strong leadership."Full show notes and transcript: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioe/news/2025/jul/wellbeing-dont-give-me-things-pretty-my-life-staffroom-s05e05
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Navigating the economics of UK higher education | Research for the Real World
Professor Gill Wyness shares her expertise on the intricacies of university funding, the student finance system, and the ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access and attainment. Discover why the current funding model is under strain, how it impacts students from all backgrounds, and what urgent reforms are needed to secure the future of this vital sector. We also hear about the role higher education plays in fostering economic growth and social mobility.Full show notes and links: http://uclioe.info/4nohPrg
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