
There are two events each year where the network comes together to consider and share experience on key strategic matters impacting higher education. A carefully curated agenda of presentations and discussions, shaped in partnership with the members of the network, provides leaders with precious quality time so often lacking in today’s environment. Time in which to network with peers from across the sector within a Chatham House Rules environment. Each event features a dinner and drinks reception.
DVC/PVC Network event
Date: Wednesday 8 November – Thursday 9 November 2023
Location: The Studio, Birmingham

Our strategic networks and communities are one of the most valued ways in which we at Advance HE are able to engage with members and stakeholders. This network of senior leaders of education, student experience and learning and teaching is our longest running and most well established. It has proven to be an important and powerful group over the years for shaping sector response to key areas of policy. With high profile speakers and focus on the key issues and contemporary challenges we look forward to continue our support for senior leaders in coming together to share, connect and collaborate.”Nick Skeet
Director, Membership
Advance HE


Network events
The next DVC/PVC Network event is on Wednesday 8th and Thursday 9th November and will be held at The Studio, Birmingham. The event starts at 18.15 on 8 November with a networking reception followed by dinner with a pre-dinner speaker, Dr Doug Specht, Director of Teaching, Learning and Quality Assurance, University of Westminster.
Dinner and networking event
The event starts at 18.15 on 8th November with a networking reception followed by dinner.
Dr Doug Specht, Director of Teaching, Learning and Quality Assurance, University of Westminster will provide a pre-dinner provocation exploring whether happiness is a barrier to student satisfaction.
Day 2
Day two, the 9th November, will provide the opportunity to hear from sector experts and discuss current challenges and opportunities facing the UK HE sector. The programme will focus on three core themes:
- TEF 2023
Following the expected publication of TEF 2023 outcomes in September this session will provide an opportunity to take a sector wide view of the data.
Speakers include: David Kernohan, Deputy Editor, Wonkhe
- Widening access and inclusion
Strategic priorities from around the UK, approaches and performance measures.
- Learning, teaching and assessment in the era of AI
This panel discussion will explore the critical role of the HE sector in equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the future job market, where AI will play an increasingly influential role. Delegates will be encouraged to reflect on the evolving workplace, strategies for 'future-proofing' curricula, and the imperative of staff development to enable educators in effectively utilizing AI for their work and teaching practices.
The event will conclude at 15:30 on the 9th November .
Can’t think of a better way to meet peers from across such a diverse range of universities in a relaxed and friendly environment. Fantastic sense of community and common purpose."Dr Tracey McClean, Deputy Vice-Principal for Education, Institute of Health and Social Care Studies

'The event provided an opportunity to prompt my thinking whilst being reassured that I am not alone in the challenges we face."Tony Michael, PVC Learning, Teaching and Student Success, QMUL

Event Speakers Include
Dr Doug Specht
Director of Teaching, Learning and Quality Assurance, University of Westminster
Dr Doug Specht is a cultural geographer and educationalist based in the School of Media and Communication at the University of Westminster. His research explores themes related to environmental justice, human rights, and access to education. In recognition of his work, he has been appointed as a Chartered Geographer and Chartered Teacher. In addition, he has been awarded Advanced Teacher Status, alongside being a Senior Fellow of AdvanceHE.


Event sponsor
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The PVC network is a great opportunity to discuss shared challenges with colleagues from other universities and colleges."
Professor Helen Scott, PVC Learning, Teaching and Student Success Sheffield Hallam University
