Dear all,

Now that the clocks have gone back, the evenings feel longer, the leaves are disappearing, and the countdown to Christmas has begun. We’re halfway through the semester with many students working hard on their first assignments of the year. While many of us are dreaming of that long-needed ‘Out of Office’ message, we’re also keeping a close eye on what the next few years in higher education might bring – not exactly a straightforward task…

We are well under way with student number planning across our Schools. This is a critical exercise where we set out the direction of student numbers, and the various aspects of planning around our services and offerings which are dependent on this key activity. This year in particular has seen considerable volatility and uncertainty for the sector, and we are continuing to reflect on this.

I am hugely grateful to colleagues across School and Departments, Planning, Admissions, Student Recruitment and Marketing, and Finance for navigating through these important discussions.

Recent announcements from the Post-16 Education White Paper signal major changes for the sector, with the news that home tuition fees are expected to increase by predicted inflation over the next two years and beyond. Positive news comes in the form of the reintroduction of the maintenance grants, although there is still much to be defined on how this will be funded within the sector.

The recently signalled international student levy adds another layer of complexity. While details are expected in the November Budget, we are working hard to plan for different scenarios and ensure we are prepared for what this may mean for the University.

On an inspiring note, last month’s From Manchester for the world strategy launch event was a fantastic opportunity to come together and hear about our North Star and the foundations of the strategy. If you missed the launch, Duncan’s address is still available to watch, and I encourage you to take a look.

Now that the strategy is live, our focus shifts to the ‘how’ This is a 10-year plan, and sequencing will be critical. Teams across the University are beginning to shape the first set of work packages that will drive forward key elements of the strategy.

In my area of Planning, I’m particularly interested in looking at the different approaches to defining what success looks like, and how we ensure we are in a position to pivot ourselves to maintain this success. This will take time, but it’s an exciting step forward.

Colette Fagan, Vice-President for Research, and Sarah Sharples, Vice-President and Dean of FSE, also recently shared a viewpoint blog where they talk about the future direction of research for the next few years.

Finally, Colleague Recognition Day on 7 November was a wonderful opportunity to share messages of thanks and appreciation across the Faculty. It was an absolute joy to both send and receive messages, and see some fantastic feedback shared across teams.

This initiative was in response to the Your Voice Matters Survey, where you told us that only 46% of colleagues felt thanked regularly for their contribution. Remember, you can send an e-card at any time via Purple Place. It’s a simple but meaningful way to show support and gratitude to those around you.

As we head into the final stretch of the semester and look forward to the Christmas break, I know it’s been an exceptionally busy period for everyone. Thank you for the energy and dedication you’ve show – it really does make all the difference.

Best wishes,

Rosie