Higher education sector discusses innovation and regulatory changes

The Enhancing Student Learning Through Innovative Scholarship (ESLTIS) conference was held at the University of Sheffield in July 2026. The event brought together 97 educators, researchers, and student partners from 24 different universities to discuss teaching and learning innovations amidst sector-wide financial constraints. Key themes included responding to disruption and the integration of AI technology within the curriculum.

Separately, discussions regarding the future of higher education regulation in England and Wales are ongoing following an Office for Students consultation in late 2025. Proposed changes may impact the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and the Access and Participation Plan (APP). Potential regulatory shifts include integrating student success outcomes into the TEF and refocusing the APP on student access to avoid duplication of metrics.