WIREDGOV

HEFCE has yesterday published the first of two consultations that will explore the future of its teaching funding method. These consultations will examine all the options for change – from minimal change to an entirely new approach - and will inform the future of the method from 2012-13 onwards.

The publication of this first consultation follows the Council's announcement of its intention to review the teaching funding method in autumn 2009.

The first consultation seeks views on underpinning principles and features. It invites comment on three key principles that the Council believes are key to the future of the method. These are:

• to give institutions the freedom to manage provision in a way that best responds to the needs of students, employers and society
• to enable HEFCE to incentivise change that is in the public interest
• to be compatible with various modes of study, including flexible provision.

The second consultation will be published in spring 2011, and will explore operational and technical elements.

The review comes about in light of developments in the higher education sector, and the changing financial and political climate. It will, therefore, take into account factors such as the outcome of Lord Browne's Independent Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance, and the availability of new data.

Responses to the consultation should be made by 2359 on Monday 12 July 2010 using the online form.

• Review of the teaching funding method: Consultation on key principles and features (HEFCE 2010/10)
• Update on the teaching funding method and plans for review (HEFCE Circular letter 24/2009)