Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 17
17
Deferred
DfE considers requiring all franchised higher education providers to register with OfS.
Recommendation
DfE told us that even if a provider could not meet all the registration criteria it might still be a good franchisee. DfE recognised, equally, that if providers do not pass that threshold, it would be right to question them providing a service for students.41 DfE told us that it is actively considering whether to impose additional controls, such as requiring all providers to be registered with OfS.42 Universities UK, in written evidence, broadly 33 Q21 34 C&AG’s Report, para 15 35 Qq18, 53, 59 36 Q57 37 Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (ISL0003) 38 Qq56, 71 39 Qq71–72 40 Q54 41 Q59 42 Qq37–38, 56 Student loans issued to those studying at franchised higher education providers 13 supported this proposal, saying that this additional regulatory oversight would provide further assurances, not only to students and the public, but also to universities when they are looking to identify providers to work with.43
Government Response Summary
The government proposes to consult on proposals to strengthen oversight of partnership delivery in higher education by January 2025, working closely with the OfS, and will develop options for legislative change if required.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
3.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: January 2025 3.2 Higher education is of fundamental importance to the education system. British higher education providers are amongst the most highly regarded in the world, supporting learners to achieve their potential, providing excellent opportunities and driving economic growth. 3.3 The government is committed to protecting the use of public funds in higher education. The Department for Education (the department) recognises the need to strengthen the higher education regulatory regime so there is greater oversight of franchised providers. 3.4 The government is proposing to consult on proposals to strengthen oversight of partnership delivery in higher education, working closely with the OfS, and will set out these proposals by January 2025. 3.5 In the longer term, the department is clear that work needs to be done towards a more robust model for protecting public money. The department’s view is that this is likely to involve a more substantial role for the OfS than at present. The department will be developing options for legislative change, if required.