Higher Education Statistics Agency De-designation

Closed 10 Jul 2022

Opened 13 Jun 2022

Contact

DDB.consultation@education.gov.uk

Feedback updated 12 Apr 2023

We asked

We asked for views on our proposal to remove the designation of the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) as the Designated Data Body (DDB) for higher education in England. This would take place if HESA consented and merged with Jisc, as was intended at that time.  

You said

80% of respondents agreed that if HESA merges with Jisc as intended, the designation of HESA as the DDB under Higher Education and Research Act 2017 (HERA), should be removed.

20% of the respondents disagreed with the proposal, raising concerns about the associated costs.

We did

Following consideration of the responses, the Minister for Skills decided that in the event of HESA consenting and the merger between HESA and Jisc going ahead, that she would remove the designation of HESA as a DDB under HERA and designate Jisc as the new DDB.

The merger has now gone ahead, and Jisc is the new DDB.

Overview

We're seeking views on the de-designation of the Higher Education Statistics Agency under the Higher Education and Research Act.

Why your views matter

This consultation proposes that the designation of HESA (Higher Education Statistics Agency) as the designated data body (DDB) for higher education in England, under the Higher Education and Research Act 2017 should be removed in the event that HESA merges with Jisc as intended.

Please note that HESA has not yet issued a notice under paragraph 5(3)(b) of Schedule 6 to HERA consenting to the removal of its designation. If no such notice is received and HESA does not merge with Jisc, we are unlikely to progress with the process for de-designating HESA.

We encourage you to read the consultation document before responding to the corresponding question in the survey here.

Audiences

  • Training providers
  • Adult education providers
  • Further education colleges
  • Independent specialist colleges
  • Employers
  • Unions and representative organisations
  • Government bodies and departments
  • Universities

Interests

  • HE