The Office for Students (OfS) is the independent regulator of higher education in England. Sir David Behan is a senior public servant and was previously Chair of Health Education England.
His appointment was announced on Friday 26 July, by the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson. He succeeds Lord (James) Wharton, who stood down earlier this month.
Higher education regulation review
Also announced was the publication of an independent review of the Office for Students, led by Sir David, titled Fit for the Future: Higher Education Regulation Towards 2035.Ms Phillipson said that the review found that the case for bold regulation of higher education is clear but that the OfS should more sharply focus on key priorities, which include monitoring financial sustainability, ensuring quality, protecting public money and regulating in the interests of students.
Sir David will now take lead on implementing the recommendations of the review.
Universities UK response
In response, Universities UK said: "Sir David Behan’s review is thorough and we welcome many of its recommendations. Its findings underline the importance of an independent regulator for higher education in England and the need for a focus on the financial sustainability of the sector."This will continue to strengthen the sector’s relationship with the OfS and ultimately help deliver better outcomes for students. We have already observed an improvement in the OfS’ relationship with the sector and this review will help consolidate this."
Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act
Ms Phillipson also announced a stop on further commencement of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act, in order to consider options, including its repeal.- Secretary of State for Education’s statement
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