Inclusivity is a defining strength of the independent higher education sector. Removing barriers to engagement through inclusive approaches to teaching, learning, assessment and student support is essential to enabling all students to succeed in higher education.
IHE Members serve a diverse student population with a prevalence of learners from underrepresented backgrounds and those facing additional challenges. We believe every student should be able to shape a higher education journey that fits their time, pace, and learning preferences.
Our research highlights innovative, student-centred practices that provide flexible models of education, designed to create the conditions in which all learners can thrive.
The IHE Inclusive Practice project explored how higher education providers support students during and after study. The research focused on practical, real-world examples from across the IHE community, drawing on semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 19 IHE member institutions.
Stakeholders from across the sector helped steer the project, ensuring findings reflected both institutional experience and wider perspectives.
The aim of the project was to gain insight into how these practices contribute to equality of opportunity and genuine student choice. The resulting case studies showcase strategies IHE Members have used to remove barriers and support student success, offering lessons for both the independent and wider higher education sector.
Read the Inclusive Practice project report
As a project partner on a successful bid to the OfS Equality in Higher Education Innovation Fund, we are exploring approaches to develop more inclusive models for assessment to better support disabled students.
Working alongside IHE Members and partner organisations, the project aims to reduce reliance on reasonable adjustments and improve disabled students’ experiences of higher education. Beyond Adjustments: Transforming Assessment for Meaningful Inclusion, is led by IHE Member, ASU London.
Project partners:
The project runs until 2027, when a final report and new resources will be made available.
Find out more about the OfS-funded project
