Jonathan Simons

Join Jonathan Simons, a veteran in education policy and head of the education practice at Public First, as he dives into the complexities of the Curriculum and Assessment Review. He discusses the urgent need to update an outdated curriculum, balancing reform with stability. The conversation highlights the powerful role of think tanks in shaping policy and the ongoing challenges educators face due to conflicting directives. Listeners will gain insight into the future of education and the necessity for genuine reform amidst evolving ideologies.

Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive at Universities UK, Jonathan Simons, Partner at Public First, and Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, dive into critical issues in higher education. They discuss the University of Sussex's hefty fine for free speech violations and the complexities surrounding academic freedom. The conversation then shifts to the controversial rise of franchising in education, exploring its potential pitfalls and the urgent need for reform. Insights reveal how these challenges impact student welfare and institutional accountability in a rapidly evolving landscape.

TEF results are discussed and the value they hold for students. The 'New Deal' for PGRs is explored. The podcast also delves into the diversity of excellence among providers in the TEF rankings. The challenges faced by universities in terms of skills needs and organizational development are highlighted. The historical expansion of universities in the UK is discussed, along with the process of establishing new universities in different locations.