Independent Review of the Office for Students

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26 July 2024

Commenting on the publication of the independent review of the Office for Students (OfS), Russell Group Policy Manager Jamie Roberts said:

“Financial sustainability is the most significant and growing challenge for the higher education sector and we welcome the call in the independent review for OfS, government and the sector to work together to plan responsibly and mitigate risks.

“Moves towards a more genuinely risk-based approach to regulation would also be positive and could help cut unnecessary red tape. Streamlining the OfS's approach to regulation with a renewed focus on key challenges would help stop resources being diverted away from teaching and student support.

“Ultimately, we need a regulatory system which protects students, takes a proportionate approach to managing risks in line with the Regulators’ Code, and helps the OfS work alongside other regulators to avoid duplication and reduce burden. There is much in this report that is welcome, and we look forward to working with the OfS and the new interim chair on the detail of any changes, including the new measures proposed on student protection."

On the appointment of Sir David Behan as the new interim chair of the OfS, a Russell Group spokesperson added:

“Sir David Behan brings a wealth of regulatory experience to the Office for Students. Getting regulation right is crucial to helping universities continue to deliver for students, and for society and the economy more broadly, and we look forward to working with Sir David in his new role.”