1. University in 2013: supporting a challenged generation? Professor Tom Ward Pro Vice Chancellor (Education) HE Advisers’ Conference, 2013

2. ∂ Durham University Shaped by the past, creating the future 3 faculties 25 departments 16 colleges 11,553 undergraduates (2011/12) 4,493 postgraduates (2011/12)

3. ∂ League table performance 20132012201120102009 Times Good University Guide56688 Sunday Times University Guide43678 Independent Complete Univ. Guide55456 Guardian University Guide-8171416 QS World Rankings-929592103

4. ∂ “Ranking” universities Universities differ in type as well as ranking; Rankings can suggest a spurious linear ordering of a complicated set of comparisons; Our job is to help students reach their potential; “Better” is not automatically better for you; “More informed” makes the difference.

5. ∂ What our students think… Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2011 Durham University won six Top 10 'WhatUni' awards, as voted for by our students: 1 st for Courses and Lectures 1 st for Clubs and Societies Top 3 for Job Prospects Top 4 for Accommodation Top 6 for University Facilities

6. ∂ The rounded student Students who will get the most from Durham are well- rounded people who do things intensely: Academic study; Sport, drama, charitable work; Socialising.

7. ∂ Necessary barriers… High entry standards; Competition for places; A college system to navigate; Intense course pace.

8. ∂ Unnecessary barriers…

9. ∂ Reality Durham students are…

10. ∂ Practical matters… Predicted grades must meet the offer; We have a shared interest in good guidance; We are serious about the rounded student; Applicants can submit a separate personal statement for Durham; The college system boosts confidence and develops skills; We are serious about fair access.

11. ∂ Strategic matters… We need to protect students from tensions in the system; The call on the Treasury is being controlled by reductions in numbers; The regulated market is riddled with contradictions; A real college system is expensive; Expect further turbulence.

12. Thank you – any comments or questions? Professor Tom Ward Pro Vice Chancellor (Education)