The OfS regulatory case report and record fine issued to the University of Sussex for breaches of management and governance conditions of registration E1 and E2 has brought University decision-making and compliance with governing documents into the spotlight - in the wider context of freedom of speech and academic freedom obligations.

On 12 May 2025, the Government published a white paper, Restoring Control over the Immigration System. The paper sets out a comprehensive plan to reduce net migration through a more restrictive and compliance-focused approach which will have far reaching implications for the higher education sector’s international offering.

Fraud is a hot topic right now for higher education institutions. Not only do students often find themselves as soft targets for fraud (ie 'money mules' or in relation to Authorised Push Payment/ APP fraud), but the institution itself now has its own responsibilities to reduce the likelihood of a fraud event taking place. 

If you are an HE organisation considering your status under the PA 2023 or wanting to understand the implications, here are some issues to consider.

As the Employment Rights Bill signals a shift towards stronger protections for individuals, we explore how employers can align with this shift - supporting legal compliance, managing risk, and promoting long-term workforce stability.

The UK Higher Education sector is facing a financial crisis. Real-term declines in tuition income, volatile international student enrolment and increasing operational costs are placing HE providers under acute pressure. In response, collaboration between HE providers is being explored as a means to maintain viability.

A recent case highlights how employment tribunals must balance the principle of open justice with the individual’s right to private life, particularly where mental health evidence is involved.

A recent Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) decision offers important clarification on how tribunals should assess whether a neurodivergent individual meets the legal definition of disability.

The EAT has confirmed that employers are not required to make adjustments that are unlikely to overcome the disadvantage experienced by a disabled employee.