Universities UK reform ‘long overdue’, says Essex v-c

"Vice-chancellors’ salaries are set by their remuneration committees" Chris Day "Nearly half of vice-chancellors are members of their university's remuneration bodies, according to data collected by the University and College Union (UCU), and another 47 per cent are able to attend meetings". The Telegraph 24th April 2018

When I meet External Examiners from other Russell Group universities I am surprised by the similarity of our concerns about how teaching and the rigours of the examination system have been dumbed down by the financial need to expand student numbers and to satisfy the "customer-led" National Student Survey. Competition for places within the UK Higher Education sector is now, to large extent, student number/league tables dominated rather than aimed to ensuring students receive the most appropriate education for their ability and skill set (although this is not helped by similar concerns over exam-focused teaching in schools). I have the impression that the most able students are not stretched sufficiently, while student with practical rather than academic skills are let down by the diminishing time spent in laboratories and workshops. I look forward to seeing some practical actions on these issues (rather than simply reports) from a more representative Universities UK.