Reflecting on 2024/25: Insights from HEPI’s Annual Review

Higher Education Think Tank Reports Record Year of Impact

August 21, 2025

Oxford-based Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) announced a period of considerable growth and impact in its latest annual review, covering August 2024 to July 2025. the institution, dedicated to shaping policy and public understanding of higher Education in the United Kingdom, has seen a marked increase in both its output and its influence on key decision-makers.

A significant rise in corporate partnerships propelled HEPI to its highest-ever level of support. This boost translated into a near-record number of publications and events, second only to the period encompassing the 2024 General Election. Data suggests the Institute’s research is increasingly informing policy and sparking debate among leaders in the higher education sector.

Key Research Areas explored

HEPI’s research portfolio spanned a diverse range of critical topics impacting the landscape of Higher Education. Recurring surveys, including collaborations with Advance HE and Unite Students, provided insights into the Student Academic Experience and the evolving role of technology.

Notable reports delved into issues such as the experiences of black early-career researchers, gender disparities in Oxbridge awarding gaps, and the factors contributing to educational underachievement among boys and young men. The organization also investigated the preparation provided by schools and colleges for university, the impact of devolution on higher education, the effects of menstruation on learning, and the decline in language acquisition.

Did You Know? According to recent data from the British Council, language learning in UK schools has declined by 40% over the last decade.

Event Highlights and Growing Engagement

The year saw HEPI host 33 events, including roundtable discussions, webinars, and in-person gatherings. the Annual Conference, titled ‘Before, During, After: The route through higher education in changing times,’ featured prominent figures from Universities UK, UCAS, and the Office for Students.

Event Type	Number of Events
Roundtable Discussions	13
Webinars	11
In-Person Events	9
Annual Conference	1

Recognition and Future Advancement

HEPI’s contributions were formally recognized in June 2025 when its Director, Nick Hillman, was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to Higher Education. Simultaneously, the organization embarked on a modernization effort, including a visual rebrand and a new website, scheduled for launch in early 2025/26, alongside the implementation of a new customer-relationship Management system.

There was some Staffing changes as Policy Manager Josh Freeman moved to a role at the Office for students. The Institute maintained stability in its leadership, with Professor Dame Sally mapstone continuing as Chair of the Board of Trustees.

Pro Tip: Stay informed about Higher Education policy changes by subscribing to newsletters from organizations like HEPI and the UUK.

The Evolving Landscape of Higher Education

The Higher Education sector is undergoing a period of unprecedented change. Government policy shifts, technological advancements like Artificial Intelligence, and evolving student expectations are all reshaping the future of universities and colleges. Organizations like HEPI play a vital role in providing the evidence-based research needed to navigate these complexities effectively. The increasing emphasis on skills-based learning and the need to address widening participation gaps are just two of the challenges facing the sector in the years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about HEPI

• What is the primary focus of HEPI’s research? HEPI focuses on all aspects of Higher Education policy and practices in the United Kingdom.
• How does HEPI influence policy decisions? HEPI’s research is regularly cited in official documents, speeches, and parliamentary debates.
• What types of events does HEPI host? HEPI hosts a variety of events, including roundtables, webinars, and annual conferences.
• What is the HEPI Soft-Power Index? It assesses the global influence of UK Higher Education.
• How does HEPI ensure openness? HEPI is committed to being one of the most transparent think tanks in the UK, publishing detailed annual reviews.
• What impact did the 2024 General Election have on HEPI’s work? The 2024 election prompted a focused period of election-themed research and analysis.
• What is HEPI doing to modernize its operations? HEPI is undergoing a visual rebrand, a website overhaul, and is implementing a new CRM system.

What are your thoughts on the future of higher education in the UK? Share your opinions in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article with your network.

How might the continued pressure on university funding, as highlighted by HEPI, impact the quality of STEM education specifically?

The State of Higher Education Funding in 2024/25

HEPI’s (Higher Education Policy Institute) annual review for 2024/25 provides a crucial snapshot of the evolving landscape of UK higher education. A key takeaway is the continued pressure on university funding, exacerbated by inflation and the cost-of-living crisis. While student numbers remain relatively stable, the real-terms decrease in per-student funding presents critically important challenges for institutions. This impacts everything from teaching quality to student support services.

The review highlights a widening gap between the funding available and the actual costs of delivering high-quality education. this is notably acute for subjects with high laboratory costs, like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines. Tuition fees, despite recent increases, haven’t kept pace with rising expenses.

Student Enrollment Trends & Demographic Shifts

Analyzing student enrollment data,HEPI’s review reveals captivating demographic shifts. There’s been a noticeable increase in the number of mature students (over 25) returning to education, often seeking to upskill or reskill in response to changing job market demands. This trend necessitates universities to adapt their offerings and support systems to cater to the specific needs of this cohort.

Moreover, the review points to a continued, albeit slow, increase in the proportion of students from disadvantaged backgrounds accessing higher education. However, widening participation remains a critical area for advancement, with significant regional disparities still evident. Targeted outreach programs and financial support are crucial to ensure equitable access.

The Impact of Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2029 Preparations

The looming REF 2029 is heavily influencing university priorities. Institutions are increasingly focusing resources on research areas where they have a competitive advantage,aiming to maximize their performance in the assessment. This can lead to a concentration of research funding in certain institutions and disciplines, possibly creating imbalances within the higher education sector.

HEPI’s review suggests a need for greater transparency and a more holistic assessment of research impact, moving beyond customary metrics like citation counts. The emphasis on research quality and its contribution to societal challenges is growing.

International Student Recruitment: Challenges and Opportunities

International student recruitment remains a vital revenue stream for many UK universities. However, the review notes increasing competition from other countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, which are actively seeking to attract international students.

Post-Brexit immigration policies and visa regulations also present challenges. Maintaining a welcoming and supportive habitat for international students is crucial, alongside streamlining the visa application process. The review emphasizes the importance of diversifying the geographical sources of international students to mitigate risks associated with over-reliance on specific markets. Global student mobility is a key factor.

The Rise of Lifelong Learning and Microcredentials

A significant trend identified in the HEPI review is the growing demand for lifelong learning opportunities. Traditional degree programs are no longer the onyl pathway to professional development. Microcredentials, short, focused courses that award credit towards a larger qualification, are gaining popularity.

Universities are responding by developing a wider range of flexible learning options,including online courses,bootcamps,and apprenticeships. This shift requires institutions to invest in new technologies and pedagogical approaches. skills gap analysis is becoming increasingly significant in designing relevant and impactful lifelong learning programs.

Benefits of HEPI’s Annual Review for Stakeholders

Policymakers: Provides evidence-based insights to inform higher education policy decisions.

University Leaders: Offers a benchmark for assessing institutional performance and identifying areas for improvement.

Students & Prospective Students: Helps understand the current challenges and opportunities within the higher education sector.

Researchers: Highlights emerging trends and priorities in research funding and assessment.

* Funding Bodies: Informs strategic allocation of resources to maximize impact.

Practical Tips for Universities Based on the Review

1. Diversify Funding Streams: Explore choice revenue sources beyond tuition fees and research grants.
2. Invest in Student Support: Prioritize mental health and wellbeing services, particularly considering the cost-of-living crisis.
3. Embrace Flexible Learning: Expand the range of online and blended learning options to cater to diverse student needs.
4. Strengthen International partnerships: Collaborate with universities in other countries to enhance research and student exchange opportunities.
5. Focus on Employability: Align curriculum with industry needs and provide students with opportunities to develop practical skills.

Case Study: University of Strathclyde’s Approach to Widening Participation

The University of Strathclyde has implemented a successful widening participation program focused on students from disadvantaged backgrounds in Scotland. This program includes targeted outreach activities in schools, financial support packages, and mentoring schemes. Initial data suggests a significant increase in the number of students from these backgrounds enrolling at Strathclyde,demonstrating the effectiveness of a proactive and holistic approach.This example highlights the importance of social mobility in higher education.

Real-World Example: The Growth of Degree Apprenticeships

the increasing popularity of degree apprenticeships exemplifies the shift towards more vocational and industry-focused higher education. These programs combine academic study with practical work experiance, allowing students to earn while they learn. Companies like IBM and Rolls-Royce are actively recruiting degree apprentices, demonstrating the