Podcasts about public first

This week on the podcast we examine Universities UK's efficiency and transformation taskforce report. What do shared back-office services, federation models and subject cold spots tell us about the sector's financial pressures?Plus we discuss Research England's new EDI action plan, and explore whether the UK's rapid three-year degree model is harming student wellbeing and learning outcomes.With Rille Raaper, Associate Professor in Sociology of Higher Education at Durham University, Jess Lister, Director (Education) at Public First, Mack Marshall, Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe SUs, and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.Our drop-out and pace miracle is harming students' health and learningUniversities UK's new era of collaborationFixing the potholes in postgraduate fundingThe spending review is a critical moment for UK science and innovationThere are better politics, big ideas, and future trade-offs in Research England's new EDI action plan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's day five of recriminations after the local elections, with politicians, pollsters and journalists alike still trying to make sense of what just happened. On today's podcast, Rachel Wolf gives her verdict: we should not be shocked by Reform's surge. She argues that Nigel Farage's success should have been predicted – that it's the same, distinctly anti-political silent majority who ‘surprised' us during Brexit, ‘surprised' us in 2019 and are ‘surprising' us now.  How will Labour respond? Will they U-turn on winter fuel? And is Boris Johnson the only one who can win back these disillusioned voters for the Tories? Oscar Edmondson speaks to James Heale and Rachel Wolf, CEO of Public First and former adviser to Boris Johnson. Produced by Oscar Edmondson and Megan McElroy.

In this episode, Adam and Amy are joined by Jonathan Simons from Public First to talk all things education policy, with a particular focus on the Curriculum and Assessment Review interim report.

This week on the podcast we're discussing the Office for Students fine of £585,000 levied against the University of Sussex for breaches of free speech conditions, as vice chancellor Sasha Roseneil calls the process "Kafka-esque" and plans a legal challenge.Plus we examine what Bridget Phillipson has called "one of the biggest financial scandals universities have faced" – franchising. Does the affair point signal a shift towards a more “planned” system?With Vivienne Stern, Chief Executive at Universities UK, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.Sussex fined almost £600k over free speechSo are universities allowed to chill misogyny or not?The franchise problem may not have a quick answerWelcome to the walk-in degreeWhat is the franchising boom doing to drop-out? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast universities failing to promote diversity will face funding cuts – so said The Times. We chat through the controversy building around the REF. Plus we look at what the sector is asking for in the spending review, and consider the government's push for lower-level, shorter apprenticeships.With Shitij Kapur, Vice Chancellor and President at King's College London, Jess Lister, Director (Education) at Public First, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.Universities UK submits to spending reviewThe barriers that must be removed for degree apprenticeships to meet NHS workforce targetsHigher education institutions have invested time, effort and money in level 7 apprenticeshipsSocieties that are humane are thoughtful about promoting equality, diversity and inclusionPredictably bad education Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob discusses the recent trends in UK house prices, highlighting a modest increase of 0.1% in January, bringing the average price to £268,213, with a year-on-year growth of 4.1%. The episode delves into the implications of rising mortgage rates and the potential impact of upcoming decisions from the Bank of England. Additionally, Rob emphasises the significance of infrastructure projects, particularly the new railway between Oxford and Cambridge, which is projected to necessitate 15,000 new homes annually to support growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS In January, the average house price in the UK rose to £268,213, reflecting a 0.1% increase from the previous month and a 4.1% increase year-on-year, although this is slightly lower than the 4.7% rise recorded in December. Mortgage Rates Impact: The slower-than-expected house price growth is attributed to rising mortgage rates, with upcoming discussions on rates by the Bank of England expected to influence future trends. Infrastructure Development: The Oxford to Cambridge arc is highlighted as a significant area for potential growth, with a new railway being constructed and a projected need for 15,000 new homes annually to support high growth. Investment Opportunities: Investors are encouraged to explore areas along the new railway route between Oxford and Cambridge, as infrastructure improvements typically lead to increased property values and development opportunities. BEST MOMENTS "The average house price... is £268,213 and that is up 0.1% from the previous month and that's a 4.1% increase year on year." "Research by Public First for the Oxford Cambridge Supercluster Board believes that actually 15,000 homes a year on average will be needed in order to reach a high growth trajectory." "Just because the report says that they need X amount of homes per year, that does not mean that those homes will get built." "Looking at infrastructure projects throughout the UK are very important because, again, it gives you an idea of what's going on and what's likely to come up as well." VALUABLE RESOURCES GET YOUR PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT FINANCE HERE: https://propertyfundingplatform.com/WharfFinancial#!/borrowerinitialregistration SOCIAL MEDIA/CONTACT US https://linktr.ee/thepropertynomadspodcast BOOKS Property FAQs = https://amzn.to/3MWfcL4 Buy To Let: How To Get Started = https://amzn.to/3genjle 101 Top Property Tips = https://amzn.to/2NxuAQL uk property, Investment, Property, Rent, Buy to let, Investing for beginners, Money, Tax, Renting, Landlords, strategies, invest, housing, properties, portfolio, estate agents, lettings, letting, business: https://patreon.com/tpnpodcast

Following last week's BBC documentary, Irresistible: Why We Can't Stop Eating by Chris Van Tulleken, Anna Taylor, executive director of The Food Foundation leads a panel discussion on ultra processed food and what we should do to tackle some of the problems arising from eating so much of it.The panel comprises Kimberley Wilson, chartered psychologist who's also qualified in nutrition and the author of Unprocessed. Maurice Cousins, head of campaigns at Public First on the political perspective, Food Foundation Adult Food Ambassador, Kathleen Kerridge and Beccy Cooper MP, Labour MP for Worthing West, public health doctor and who sits on the Health Select Committee.Click here for the Food Foundation Manifesto and here to sign up for the newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast the sector's financial woes continue - just how bad is it and are regulators on top of the problem? Plus there's a new report out on subject cold spots, and student housing is back in the news.With Gavan Conlon, leader of the Education and Labour Market teams at London Economics, Sally Burtonshaw, Director of the Education Practice at Public First, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George's University of London, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe.Do we need a league table of scholars produced by Silicon Valley?There are cold spots in arts, humanities, and social sciences provisionIs it reasonable to expect higher education institutions to be more business-like?Governing bodies need to prepare and plan now for a different futureVAT is not always the barrier to shared services that it is thought to beUniversities need a plan to manage future HE provision. So does the governmentThe regulator does not have a handle on the financial state of English higher education Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Ellen and Alona look ahead to COP29, the annual climate summit, hosted this year in Baku, Azerbaijan.They are joined by Isabel Hilton, Prospect's contributing editor who shares her experiences at COP, and Sam Alvis, a policy advisor and director of energy and environment at Public First.25 out of the 35 key “planetary vital signs” are out of bounds, and biodiversity is rapidly dwindling. At the same time, a growing culture war means consensus about action is increasingly contested in the political space. Last year, a government minister left the conference early to vote on the Rwanda scheme—now, is Labour doing any better? Isabel and Sam discuss the government's climate plans and rank its performance out of ten. But why do leaders struggle to make progress? And, amid growing climate-related anxiety, how can we avoid a sense of paralysis? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast bits of the UUK blueprint on funding the sector have emerged - we evaluate what's emerged so far. Plus we ask whether closure of courses at ABA is a coalmine canary, a debate is hotting up over workload and Hidden History dives into the duopoly.With Ben Ward, Chief Executive at University of Manchester Students' Union, Meg Price, Senior Policy Manager at Public First, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City St George's University of London, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.Universities will be told to “double down” on sharing thingsWhy do we all work such long hours?Staff are working dangerously long hours, and their employers should be concernedPreventing staff burnout makes financial as well as compassionate senseApplied Business Academy to close all higher education coursesThe NHS productivity puzzle: Why has hospital activity not increased in line with funding and staffing?Tomorrow's teachers: A roadmap to get Gen Z into the classroom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Politicians and pubs are a combination as old as the hills, with even the likes of teetotal e​x-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak turning up for photo shoots a​t​ local watering holes on the election trail this year. But if our decision-makers stuck about after the cameras disappeared and observed the conversations ordinary pub-goers were having, would they be better informed about their lives and what makes them tick? That's what Ed Shackle and Bertie Wnek, two researchers from policy, research, opinion and strategy consultancy Public First, have done, spending five days in pubs in Bolton to hear what kind of things punters talk about. ​They tell Rob Parsons why this kind of research brought them insights they'd never get from an opinion poll - and the surprising activity they found in virtually every Bolton pub no matter what time of day it was. Rob also speaks to David Skaith, the first elected metro mayor of York and North Yorkshire, about his 'whirlwind' first 100 days in the job. Find out what he's doing on buses and transport, housing and whether he'll challenge his own Labour government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the podcast the new government is shaping up - we check if it's ship shape. Plus it's been NSSmass so we'll work out the impact, and we've got new research on academic support.With Jess Lister, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Alex Favier, Founder and Director at Favier Ltd, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe.What can the NSS can tell us about staff pay?National Student Survey 2024Who is Jacqui Smith?Listening to what students say in the national student surveyWhat academics want from academic supportOnce you can describe an academic support system, you can begin to evaluate itHow universities are thinking about academic supportFive free(ish) things Labour could do on R&DThirty seven things Labour should do now to make things better for studentsA look at Labour's in-tray for higher educationThe unofficial reintroduction to Patrick VallanceThe Kerslake Collection looks forward to a refreshed civic agenda for universities Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast the Migration Advisory Committee's review of the Graduate route is here - how will the government respond? Plus we take a trip back to the sixties to look at manifesto mentions from six decades ago, and OfS says that 40 per cent of institutions expect to be in deficit this year.With Eve Alcock, Director of Public Affairs at QAA, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast a parliamentary report calls for changes to regulation on franchising – does it go far enough?Plus the think tanks are circling as Labour keeps shtum on HE policy, Jim is in Austria chatting dropping out and study speed, and creepy behaviour towards female academics is under fire.With Julian Gravatt, Deputy Chief Executive at the Association for Colleges, Sally Burtonshaw, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Maja Höggerl, 1st deputy chairwoman at ÖH Uni Graz, and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With a general election looming, how does the public really feel about the NHS? And how are the main political parties responding? To scratch beneath the surface, Matthew Taylor sits down with Kate Duxbury and James Frayne to explore attitudes towards the health service. Delving into views on access, performance and staff and perceptions on waste, efficiency and spend, they consider where next for the NHS. Kate is a research director leading health policy research at Ipsos. James Frayne is a founding partner at Public First. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the general election less than a year away, the Conservatives, Labour and all other political parties are drawing up their manifestos. Scrutinised by the media and voters, manifestos can shape debate, shift the polls, and play a major part in an election campaign – and shape what the winning part does in government. While manifestos are described as a contract between a party and the people, the reality in government is often quite different. Pledges may prove difficult to deliver in practice, with unforeseen crises and the day-to-day challenges of governing seeing commitments fall by the wayside. In a coalition or minority government, parties may have to compromise. So how do the parties develop and write their manifestos? What does a good manifesto actually look like? What are the questions that Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer will be considering when signing off on their manifestos? And just how important are manifestos during – and after – a general election campaign? Joining us to discuss these questions and more were: Andrew Fisher, former Executive Director of Policy for the Labour Party, and author of the 2017 and 2019 Labour manifestos Robert Shrimsley, Chief UK Political Commentator and Executive Editor at the Financial Times Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First, and co-author of the 2019 Conservative manifesto The event was chaired by Dr Catherine Haddon, Programme Director at the Institute for Government.

With the general election less than a year away, the Conservatives, Labour and all other political parties are drawing up their manifestos. Scrutinised by the media and voters, manifestos can shape debate, shift the polls, and play a major part in an election campaign – and shape what the winning part does in government. While manifestos are described as a contract between a party and the people, the reality in government is often quite different. Pledges may prove difficult to deliver in practice, with unforeseen crises and the day-to-day challenges of governing seeing commitments fall by the wayside. In a coalition or minority government, parties may have to compromise. So how do the parties develop and write their manifestos? What does a good manifesto actually look like? What are the questions that Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer will be considering when signing off on their manifestos? And just how important are manifestos during – and after – a general election campaign? Joining us to discuss these questions and more were:  • Andrew Fisher, former Executive Director of Policy for the Labour Party, and author of the 2017 and 2019 Labour manifestos  • Robert Shrimsley, Chief UK Political Commentator and Executive Editor at the Financial Times • Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First, and co-author of the 2019 Conservative manifesto The event was chaired by Dr Catherine Haddon, Programme Director at the Institute for Government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Solar panel installers, architects, environmental scientists, recycling coordinators, wind turbine engineers, geologists, project managers, electric vehicle manufacturers – these are just a small subset of the countless jobs connected to the green revolution. For renewable energy to be a sustainable part of our lives, we need to ensure it offers both economic growth and climate security. How do we ensure the social and economic benefits of clean energy are available to all, and not just those at the top of the food chain? How can the public and private sector work together to encourage people to work in the green energy sector? What are the best ways to increase investment in green jobs? And is it possible for us to create an economy in which the health of the planet and the wellbeing of its inhabitants is a priority and profit isn't the only goal? To answer all these questions and more, Intelligence Squared brought together a panel of expert speakers to discuss their plans for creating economic growth and job opportunities within the green economy. ScottishPower Strategic Resourcing Manager Madeline McCreanor is joined by Sam Alvis, Director of Energy at policy and insights firm Public First, and Shaun Spiers, Executive Director at the environmental think tank Green Alliance in a live panel discussion, hosted by journalist and broadcaster Kamal Ahmed. This podcast was produced in partnership with Iberdrola. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Solar panel installers, architects, environmental scientists, recycling coordinators, wind turbine engineers, geologists, project managers, electric vehicle manufacturers – these are just a small subset of the countless jobs connected to the green revolution. For renewable energy to be a sustainable part of our lives, we need to ensure it offers both economic growth and climate security. How do we ensure the social and economic benefits of clean energy are available to all, and not just those at the top of the food chain? How can the public and private sector work together to encourage people to work in the green energy sector? What are the best ways to increase investment in green jobs? And is it possible for us to create an economy in which the health of the planet and the wellbeing of its inhabitants is a priority and profit isn't the only goal? To answer all these questions and more, Intelligence Squared brought together a panel of expert speakers to discuss their plans for creating economic growth and job opportunities within the green economy. ScottishPower Strategic Resourcing Manager Madeline McCreanor will be joined by Sam Alvis, Director of Energy at policy and insights firm Public First, and Shaun Spiers, Executive Director at the environmental think tank Green Alliance in a live panel discussion, hosted by journalist and broadcaster Kamal Ahmed. This podcast was produced in partnership with Iberdrola. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Solar panel installers, architects, environmental scientists, recycling coordinators, wind turbine engineers, geologists, project managers, electric vehicle manufacturers – these are just a small subset of the countless jobs connected to the green revolution. For renewable energy to be a sustainable part of our lives, we need to ensure it offers both economic growth and climate security. How do we ensure the social and economic benefits of clean energy are available to all, and not just those at the top of the food chain? How can the public and private sector work together to encourage people to work in the green energy sector? What are the best ways to increase investment in green jobs? And is it possible for us to create an economy in which the health of the planet and the wellbeing of its inhabitants is a priority and profit isn't the only goal? To answer all these questions and more, Intelligence Squared brought together a panel of expert speakers to discuss their plans for creating economic growth and job opportunities within the green economy. ScottishPower Strategic Resourcing Manager Madeline McCreanor will be joined by Sam Alvis, Director of Energy at policy and insights firm Public First, and Shaun Spiers, Executive Director at the environmental think tank Green Alliance in a live panel discussion, hosted by journalist and broadcaster Kamal Ahmed. This podcast was produced in partnership with Iberdrola.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on the podcast university funding is back in the news as Wales increases fees and the sector puzzles over fixing funding across the UK. Are fee increases politically palatable, and what are the alternatives? Plus free school meals students face a “postcode lottery” for university entrance, and we've been taking a look at universities' role in the public sector jobs pipeline.With Gavan Conlon, Partner at London Economics, Jess Lister, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast OfS has published more inspection reports into Business and Management provision in universities. Is the process and focus right? Plus we discuss the implications of Jo Phonenix's win at tribunal against the OU, and look in detail at a report on university governance. With Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Steph Harris, Director of Strategy, Insight and Member Engagement at Universities UK, David Kernohan, Deputy Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The EU must prioritise digital skills development, bridge the existing skills gap, and foster an innovation-driven environment. By embracing AI and equipping its citizens with the necessary skills, the EU can navigate current challenges and secure its position as a global leader in the digital era. In the third episode of this five-part miniseries, we look at AI's role in workplace and productivity.In this episode we speak with Andrea Renda, Head of Global Governance, Regulation, Innovation and the Digital Economy at The Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS), a think tank based in Brussels that undertakes research “leading to solutions to the challenges facing Europe today". Anna Anderson, CEO and Co-Founder of RigaTech Girls, an NGO which is the only organisation in Latvia specifically dedicated to the cause of advancing women in technology. Inger Paus, Public Affairs Director at Google Europe further discusses the impact of AI on the economy and productivity within the workforce over the next five years.Our Sources for the show: ERT, European Commission, Public First, CEPR, IBM, EY.This content is paid for by Google and is produced in partnership with the Financial Times' Commercial Department. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast there's been a Westminster government reshuffle - but does any of it matter to higher education? Plus OfS has been inspecting business courses, sector finances are in the news and Data Futures has been pushed further into the future.With Chris Shelley, Director of Student Experience at Queen Mary University of London, Jess Lister, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor-in-Chief at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

check out this episode here: https://www.patreon.com/SortaKindaFunnyPodcast?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator This is our first ever Patreon and James's favorite episode. For good reason. This extra episode talks about all the super weird things people have witnessed other human beings do in public. Shameful and embarrassing. Gross and incredible.

A general election is expected in 2024 and no party can ignore the NHS − but what do they plan to do on health? The health service regularly tops voter concerns, consumes a growing share of public spending and features daily in the media. The health of the nation is also moving up the agenda, with ill health the main reason why 2.6 million working-age people are economically inactive. So what are the main parties planning as we move towards an election and have the party conferences revealed anything new?  To discuss, our Chief Executive Jennifer Dixon is joined by: Rachel Wolf, Partner at Public First, a consultancy specialising in public policy, public opinion and campaign strategy. Stephen Bush, Associate Editor and Columnist at the Financial Times.  Show notes The Health Foundation (2023). Health in 2040: projected patterns of illness in England.  The Health Foundation (2023). Public perceptions of health and social care: what are the priorities ahead of a general election?  The Health Foundation (2023). What should be at the top of the political agenda for health and care?  The Health Foundation (2023). Health Foundation responds to the Prime Minister's announcement of smoke-free measures.   The Health Foundation (2023). Social health insurance: be careful what you wish for.   Institute for Government (2023). The NHS productivity puzzle: why has hospital activity not increased in line with funding and staffing?  The Times. Tories as the party of change: that's a hard sell (2023).   Ipsos. Ipsos issues tracker: July 2023 (2023).  

Pixel Podcast Topics1.) How Do We Film in Public? (00:00 - 18:06 )2.) Ranking Horror Movies  (18:07 - 47:06 )3.) Theft At Conventions (47:07 - 1:01:46 )4.) Being A Nerd Cool Now? (1:01:47 - 1:19:01)5.)  Agree or Disagree (1:19:02 - 1:37:04 )6.) First Gaming Memory (1:37:04 - 1:56:32 )Podcast  Crew- Riff, Ricky, KrisProducer- CurtisSound Engineer and Switcher- BetoEpisode 12Thank you all for the support and only hope to keep putting out quality content!Support the showhttps://www.youtube.com/@pluspixel

This week on the podcast results of the Teaching Excellence Framework are out - but what do they tell us, and how helpful are they for students? Plus there's a new report on university staff and skills development and a “new deal” for PGRs has arrived. With Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of Education Practice at Public First, Anne-Marie Canning, Chief Executive Officer at The Brilliant Club, Debbie McVitty, Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast we look at three new reports that detail the impact of the cost of living crisis on students. Is there more that universities can do as governments continue to ignore the issue?We also discuss Horizon, research security and foreign policy, and the question of gathering stats on gender-based violence in higher education.Plus hidden history looks at how teacher training troubles impacted where our universities are.With Pete Quinn, HE inclusion consultant, Jess LIster, Associate Director Education at Public First, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar at City, University of London and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After the city of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power asked NREL to help them figure out what would it take to get LA's entire grid running on 100% renewable energy by 2045, their study called the LA100 said it wasn't just possible to make the switch; it was possible to do it a decade sooner. So LADWP changed their goal. Instead of converting the grid by 2045, they'd do it by 2035. The scale of that transition is immense. Almost 4 million residents live within the city limits. Pulling it off would make LADWP the largest municipal utility in the country to run on 100% renewable energy.As director of power system planning at the utility, Jason Rondou and his team are tasked with figuring out how to deploy hundreds of gigawatts worth of wind, solar, and long term storage to meet the city's growing energy demands.And if done right, the city's transition could create nearly 10,000 new jobs and bring in $60 to $90 billion of new investment for the city.This week, Brad talked with Jason about the policies and programs LADWP is using to clean up the city's grid, and the ways that a public utility like theirs is uniquely suited to the challenge.This podcast is produced by GridX. GridX is the Enterprise Rate Platform that modern utilities rely on to usher in our clean energy future.

Daisy Powell Chandler, elections strategist and consult at Public First, and Cameron Smith from the Conservative Environment Network join PoliticsHome's Alain Tolhurst and Caitlin Doherty to discuss the fallout on climate and net zero policy after the ULEZ row in the Uxbridge by-election. Presented by Alain Tolhurst, produced by Nick Hilton for Podot, edited by Laura Silver

This week on the podcast the Future Research Assessment Programme (FRAP) has reported - we discuss whether its recommendations will fix the issues that researchers raise. Plus there's a new report out on awarding gaps, there's advice on recruiting international students and English studies is in better health than we thought.With Omar Khan, Director at TASO, Sally Burtonshaw, Associate Director Education at Public First, Livia Scott, SUs Community and Policy Officer at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has civil service impartiality had its day? Recent events in government, including the circumstances following Dominic Raab's resignation as justice secretary, have at least on the surface deepened a divide between ministers and officials – and civil service morale has dropped as the strained relationship between ministers and officials deteriorates. With Raab complaining of “increasingly activist civil servants” and warning that it had become “almost impossible for ministers to deliver for the British people”, there have been increasing calls to give more powers to ministers to bring their political allies into Whitehall. So has civil service impartiality had its day? Is it time to allow more political appointments into civil service roles? What would this mean for the civil service's ability to give good advice and effectively implement government policy? What other changes would help the civil service recruit people with the skills and specialisms that ministers want and the public need? And what else can be done to restore the fractured relationship between ministers and officials? To explore these questions, the IfG bought together an expert panel including: George Eustice, Conservative MP and former Environment Secretary Ayesha Hazarika, Times Radio presenter and a former civil servant and special adviser Lord O'Donnell, former Cabinet Secretary Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First, a former adviser at 10 Downing Street and co-author of the Conservative Party's 2019 election manifesto This event was chaired by Alex Thomas, Programme Director at the Institute for Government.

Recent events in government, including the circumstances following Dominic Raab's resignation as justice secretary, have at least on the surface deepened a divide between ministers and officials – and civil service morale has dropped as the strained relationship between ministers and officials deteriorates. With Raab complaining of “increasingly activist civil servants” and warning that it had become “almost impossible for ministers to deliver for the British people”, there have been increasing calls to give more powers to ministers to bring their political allies into Whitehall. So has civil service impartiality had its day? Is it time to allow more political appointments into civil service roles? What would this mean for the civil service's ability to give good advice and effectively implement government policy? What other changes would help the civil service recruit people with the skills and specialisms that ministers want and the public need? And what else can be done to restore the fractured relationship between ministers and officials? To explore these questions, the IfG bought together an expert panel including: George Eustice, Conservative MP and former Environment Secretary Ayesha Hazarika, Times Radio presenter and a former civil servant and special adviser Lord O'Donnell, former Cabinet Secretary Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First, a former adviser at 10 Downing Street and co-author of the Conservative Party's 2019 election manifesto This event was chaired by Alex Thomas, Programme Director at the Institute for Government.

From unsolved pay disputes to record backlogs, abandoned social care reforms and now accusations of sexual harassment of female surgeons, finding a good news story about health and care services in the U.K. is nigh on impossible. So just how bad is the crisis facing the NHS? Who, or what, can be blamed for the pile-up of problems? And is there any way that Rishi Sunak - or maybe Keir Starmer - can fix the crisis? In this special episode of Inside Briefing, Nick Davies is joined by IfG senior fellow Jill Rutter, Rachel Sylvester, who chairs the Times' Health Commission, and Rachel Wolf, founding partner at Public First, co-author of the 2019 Conservative manifesto, and now also co-author of an upcoming report on NHS productivity in partnership with the Institute and the Health Foundation. Presented by Nick Davies. Produced by Milo Hynes.

This week on the podcast we're live at our Secret Life of Students event in London where we hear from the Office for Students' Director for Fair Access and Participation John Blake, discuss belonging and community and its relationship to the rest of the student experience, and consider the impact of the cost of living crisis on different groups of students.With Sally Burtonshaw, Associate Director (Education) at Public First, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar and sector historian, Eve Alcock, Head of Public Affairs at QAA, Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For more than 50 years, the civil service has committed to being better at external recruitment. But it continues to fall short at attracting, retaining and properly using the knowledge and skills present in wider society. Little progress has been made on the recent pledge, contained within June 2021's Declaration on Government Reform, to “establish new, appropriately and consistently managed, entry routes for professionals from outside government”. The civil service is suffering as a result. So what more could be done to bring external talent into the civil service – and why has the government's approach failed to make a difference? Building on the Institute's recent report on the topic, this important event will discuss why external recruitment is so important to an effective civil service and how to make it happen in practice. To discuss the above and more, our expert panel included: Katharine Braddick, Group Head of Strategic Policy and Adviser to the Group CEO at Barclays and former senior civil servant Jonathan Simons, Partner at Public First and former senior civil servant Rt Hon Baroness Gisela Stuart of Edgbaston, First Civil Service Commissioner Jordan Urban, Researcher at the Institute for Government. The event was chaired by Alex Thomas, Programme Director at the Institute for Government.

This week on the podcast 46 per cent of people would only choose to invest more in R&D when the UK economy is in better shape – does the fragility of public support matter? Plus international student visas are up again, and so are dependants, and the Lords have been interrogating universities' engagement with autocracies.With Martin Jones, Vice Chancellor at Staffordshire University, Jess Lister, Associate Director Education at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe, James Coe, Associate Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast Nicola Sturgeon has resigned as leader of the SNP and Scotland's First Minister - what kind of higher education legacy does she leave? Plus student engagement with their studies may or may not have bounced back, and there's a call to extend rather than cut the post-study work visa for international students.With Mary Curnock Cook, Chair of the UPP Foundation's Student Futures Commission, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, and presented by Mark leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.You can subscribe to the podcast on Acast, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Deezer, RadioPublic, Podchaser, Castbox, Player FM, Stitcher, TuneIn, Luminary or via your favourite app with the RSS feed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why are so many over-50s leaving the workforce – and can we get them back? With people changing how they live post-pandemic, large numbers have left the labour market. What made them make this shift? And how are the NHS and care crises also playing into this? Ros Taylor is joined by Scott Corfe, director of Public First, to discuss.  “The overwhelming majority of these people who have dropped out of the labour market don't want to return to work.” “For people who left in the pandemic it seems like for many this is a retirement story, rather than an ill-health story.”  “Brits seem to have a more negative views of work than Germany and the US.”  www.patreon.com/bunkercast  Presented by Ros Taylor. Music by Kenny Dickinson. Audio production: Alex Rees. Lead Producer: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production Instagram | Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the podcast we consider the fall out from last week's immigration figures. Is a crackdown on international students really on its way from government? Plus we chat China amid growing concerns about the superpoower's relationship with HE, this year's PTES suggests rapid expansion might need more careful management, and HESA is helping us understand brain drain.With Lucy Van Essen-Fishman, Lead Policy and Research Analyst in Data and Innovation at HESA, Jonathan Simons, Partner and Head of the Education Practice at Public First, Michael Salmon, News Editor at Wonkhe and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the podcast the free speech bill reaches committee stage in the Lords, and the NUS President has been terminated. What are the implications for culture on campus? Plus there's a new report out on estranged students, and we discuss the final question set for the new National Student Survey.With Jess Lister, Senior Policy Manager at Public First, Sunday Blake, Associate Editor at Wonkhe, Mike Ratcliffe, Academic Registrar and sector historian and presented by Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wonkhe. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A new Prime Minister, government and health secretary, all facing a formidable array of challenges. Prime Minister Liz Truss has said that putting the NHS ‘on a firm footing' is one of her top three priorities (alongside the economy and energy). Meanwhile, Health Secretary Thérèse Coffey has said her priorities are ABCD (ambulances, backlog, care and doctors and dentists), and since the podcast recording she has set out the government's plans. So how will this translate to the NHS, social care and improving the UK's health? Will government have the bandwidth before an election to address more than the day-to-day pressures? And if a Truss government won a general election with a mandate to do more, what form would it take? To discuss, our chief executive Dr Jennifer Dixon is joined by: Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First. Rachel is also on the Board of the Centre for Policy Studies, co-authored the Conservative Party's Election Manifesto in 2019 and was previously education and innovation adviser to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.  Isabel Hardman, Assistant Editor at The Spectator. Isabel has authored two books – Why We Get the Wrong Politicians and The Natural Health Service – and is currently finishing a third on the NHS. Show notes Rachel Wolf, Public First, A few thoughts on the Downing Street policy unit Rachel Wolf, Conservative Home, Truss's in tray 3) Rachel Wolf: Levelling Up. There is no time for another new approach. The new Prime Minister must focus on delivery Isabel Hardman, The Spectator, Is Coffey good for health? Thérèse Coffey is expected to become Deputy Prime Minister and Health Secretary. What's the significance? Isabel Hardman, The Spectator, Can Liz Truss deliver, deliver, deliver? Hugh Alderwick, Health policy priorities for the next prime minister: Avoid zombie policies and invest in growing the workforce and reducing inequalities. BMJ MJ 2022;378:o1726 The Health Foundation, Public perceptions of health and social care: what the new government should know The Health Foundation, Waiting for NHS hospital care: the role of the independent sector

In our first episode of Season 5 we are coming to y'all from Detroit!! We kick off the season with a cocktail called the Hanky-Panky. This drink is Ada “Coley” Coleman's most famous drink from the turn of the century. Her classic concoction is still on menu today at her old bar and it ties perfectly to the era and theme of STEPHANIE's scandal. 

Your weekly source for locksport news and sometimes interviews. Full show notes, including links, can be found at http://www.thelocksportscast.com  In this week’s episode: First pick of the ASSA Neptun 4900 Another Locksmith ambushed TikTok challenge targets cars LPU Belt changes New Products Meetups Criminals Sales Giveaways and more Announcements: Corrections: News: Locksmith ambushed, shot and left lying in street on work call Alarming new TikTok challenge targets popular car model  InventHelp Inventor Develops Improved Design for Mechanical Key Locks   Community News: David's Guiness World Record Attempt (Father & Son) ASSA Neptun 4900 picked and gutted - Public First  Videos: Resources: Meetups: TOOOL Sydney Meetup  BSidesAugusta  Summit XII - Los Angeles  Convention ALOA  ALOA President Bill M. on ALOA Convention | #Lockboss Show & Giveaway  SAINTCON – Keynote Speakers  LockCon 2022 registration is OPEN! « Toool's Blackbag Defcon  DEF CON 30 Lockpick Village Volunteer Form Products:  Multipick TSA Master Keys Multipick TSA Master Key Set for Luggage Locks Hold Out Keys NEW Bones Dimple Handles Review Plastic Handle aka ‘Bone Wrap’  LPU Karate Belts: beltranking - lockpicking (reddit.com)  Mentorship Monday 3: The Belt System  2: Breaking Rules and Getting the Belt  All About The Lockpicking Belt Rankings System  Speedlocks: Speedlocks.org  Lock Stories: Criminals: Boardman woman tells police 'locksmith' broke into her home - WFMJ.com Police: California burglar forgot keys inside crime scene | AP News  Sales: https://www.thinkpeterson.com/ 15% off with code DJTJD847R7 $75 min order of lock picks  Law Lock tools sale - Review Guru post code Summer25 to get 25% off on summer sale items https://bareboneslockpicking.com/ code 'MickOz10' (excludes Law Lock Tool products) expires end of August https://www.lockpickmall.com/ 5% off using coupon code DarkVIP https://www.lockpickmall.com/ 6% off using coupon code albert https://www.lockpickmall.com/ 6% off with code joepicks https://www.3dlocksport.com/ 10% off. CODE: LSCAST10 https://makolocks.com/ 15% off with code BUYMAKO Unknown exp https://uklockpickers.co.uk/ 10% off with code GIFT Giveaways and Contests: Lady Locks  Subscriber Giveaway  Average Life of Prince 100 subscriber giveaway!!!  KnoxLocks giveaways Knox Locks - YouTube  CLK Supplies Introducing #Lockboss Free Giveaway! Do you work with Locks & Keys or do Locksmithing?  Executive Producers: JimyLongs Founding Executive Producers: m3ddl3r Panda-Frog Michael Gilchrist Starrylock WilliamsBrain  Dave 2BDCy4D Liibans Locksport Journey Pat from Uncensored Tactical  threeraccoonsinacoat  Chirael Associate Executive Producers: DoctorHogmaster Clayton Howard (Kewltune) Co-Producers: m0g Jon Lock Ratyoke MrPickur CrankyLockPicker JHPpicking Bare Bones Lock Picking Deadbolt Cafe NWA Lockpicker Snake Chief Content Producer: I fisk Content Producers: Albert Lebel banditobrandino07 Bare Bones Lockpicking Chirael (Anthony) CorrectJeans CrankyLockPicker Dark Arts Lockpicking Holly Jeff Moss Joe Picks Joshua Gonzalez kixpicks Knox Lock kraKen Lady Locks Norlin Panda-Frog prince Reinder Tiger Trav Tony Virelli Special thanks to: Contact Information: Email: podcast@thelocksportscast.com Twitter https://twitter.com/charlescurrent  Reddit: currentc57 on r/locksport Discord: Lockpickers United as Current, Extraordinary League of Pickers as Current, The Lock Sportscast as Current Join the Discord at http://discord.thelocksportscast.com The Lock Sportscast on Odysee Donate: http://paypal.thelocksportscast.com https://patreon.com/thelocksportscast

Introductory remarks by Bronwen Maddox, Director of the Institute for Government Setting out the recommendations of a recent IfG report, Tom Sasse, IfG Associate Director, made the case for reforms such as appointing a dedicated head of policy making in each department, encouraging officials to specialise more in policy areas, and greater co-ordination of cross-departmental policy making. Discussion with speakers: Andrew Carter, Chief Executive of the Centre for Cities Anna Isaac, Economics Editor at The Independent Paul Kissack, Group Chief Executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First. Chaired by: Dr Hannah White, Deputy Director of the Institute for Government Closing remarks from Lord Sainsbury of Turville. #IfGgovtreform

In 2021, the European Commission (EC) announced the “Path to the Digital Decade,” a vision for Europe's digital transformation by 2030, which is divided into four areas—skills, infrastructures, government, and business—with key metrics to challenge and monitor progress. Amazon Web Services (AWS) shares the EC's vision for Europe's digital transformation, and we commissioned Public First to undertake the “Unlocking Europe's Digital Potential” study to understand how we can work together to help Europe unlock its digital ambitions. According to Public First's report, the Digital Decade could unlock over 2.8 trillion euros in gross value added (GVA), the measure of the value of goods and services produced in the region's economy, which is equivalent to nearly 21% of the European Union's (EU) current economy. Digital transformation for EU growth The study highlights that 55% of the estimated GVA gain depends on cloud computing. Cloud computing refers to the on-demand delivery of information technology (IT) resources on the internet. Instead of buying, owning, and maintaining data centres and servers, organizations can access computing power, storage, databases, and other services on the cloud on an as-needed basis. With cloud computing, AWS manages and maintains the technology infrastructure, achieving the highest levels of security, privacy, and resilience for businesses. The potential 2.8 trillion euros in GVA comprises 1.3 trillion euros the EU is already on course to achieve plus a further 1.5 trillion euros if digital progress is accelerated. If progress isn't accelerated, the EU will achieve only 45% of the potential GVA of the Digital Decade. At the current rate of progress, achieving the EU's full digital target will take until 2040, an extra 10 years. Unlocking this value requires private and public sectors to join forces to accelerate the uptake and adoption of digital skills and technologies, such as cloud technologies. AWS, with its cloud expertise and action to help 29 million people globally grow their technical skills with free cloud computing skills training by 2025, supports the EU's ambitions. The EU is making good progress towards some of its Digital Decade targets. For example, it's on track to meet its aim of doubling the number of “unicorns,” privately held startups valued at over $1 billion, by 2030. The EU is also making progress towards digitizing 100% of core public services and is likely to meet its gigabit for everyone and 5G everywhere target for internet connectivity. These successes must be replicated across all of the EU's Digital Decade targets. Accelerating progress requires a collective focus across public and private sectors on digital adoption, skills development, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and digital government. Accelerating digital transformation In 2021, the EU had over 200 unicorns, double the level in 2017, and the number is on track to double again by 2030. However, many European companies have not yet adopted existing technologies, including the cloud. Digitizing the overall economy would boost growth by 20%, which is 8.5 times the value of growing the EU's tech sector. The report also estimates the following: Few European companies have adopted foundational technologies such as the cloud (26%), artificial intelligence (AI) (25%), and big data (14%). By using services based on the cloud, e.g., customer relationship management (CRM), companies can boost business productivity by 10–25%. If EU businesses accelerate their adoption of cloud, AI, and big data by 10%, they would add 370 billion euros in GVA to the EU economy, an amount larger than the EU's financial services industry. Many businesses surveyed were unaware of the benefits of digital technology. Governments can play a crucial role, particularly for small businesses, in providing training and support to address this. Closing the skills gap While a majority of Europeans possess basic digital skills, significant differenc...

The Hotchkiss concerts are finally resuming and opening to the public. The first major performance open to the general public will be on Saturday April 30 - the Hotchkiss Philharmonic will finally be on stage again welcoming a group of about 30 professional musicians from Hartford, Boston, and NY to join our most experienced students to form a large orchestra. The program consists of a Verdi overture, a Mozart Piano Concerto (with German pianist Andreas Frôlich flying from Cologne for this performance), and Beethoven's beloved 7th symphony.

This week we analyse this year's Conservative party conference. First, Prime Minister Boris Johnson's speech: how credible was it? Can low-skilled immigration be simply replaced without a big inflation risk? Political editor George Parker and chief political commentator Robert Shrimsley analyse.And then, we look at the other main theme of this year's conference: levelling up. Did we gain any extra insight from Johnson and Michael Gove on what it means, how it can be delivered and what success looks like? Two special guests will explore: Rachel Wolf of Public First and Paul Swinney from the Centre for Cities think-tank.Audio source: BBCProduced by Howie Shannon. The sound engineers were Breen Turner and Sean McGarrity.-Read the latest on https://www.ft.com/world/uk-Follow @Seb Payne, @Robert Shrimsley, @George Parker-Subscribe to https://www.ft.com/newsletters See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The pandemic has hit public services hard, creating backlogs - from children missing out on school lessons, to cancelled hospital operations and unheard court cases – and leaving local authorities facing budget shortfalls. But as the government focuses on post-pandemic economic recovery, its priority is to ‘level up' parts of the country which have fallen behind in terms of economic growth, opportunity, and wellbeing. With limited resources, how can public services both address backlogs and ‘level up'? Has the pandemic made levelling up harder for public services? How, if at all, can public services contribute to levelling up? What should the government do to help them both catch-up and level-up? To discuss these questions and more, the IfG was delighted to host an expert panel including: Baroness Armstrong, Chair of the House of Lords Public Services Committee Saffron Cordery, Deputy Chief Executive of NHS Providers Georgina Cox, Partner at PA Consulting Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First and former Education and Innovation Adviser to David Cameron. The event was chaired by Graham Atkins, Associate Director at the Institute for Government. #IfGpublicservices We would like to thank PA Consulting for kindly supporting this event. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The pandemic has hit public services hard, creating backlogs - from children missing out on school lessons, to cancelled hospital operations and unheard court cases – and leaving local authorities facing budget shortfalls. But as the government focuses on post-pandemic economic recovery, its priority is to ‘level up' parts of the country which have fallen behind in terms of economic growth, opportunity, and wellbeing. With limited resources, how can public services both address backlogs and ‘level up'? Has the pandemic made levelling up harder for public services? How, if at all, can public services contribute to levelling up? What should the government do to help them both catch-up and level-up? To discuss these questions and more, the IfG was delighted to host an expert panel including: Baroness Armstrong, Chair of the House of Lords Public Services Committee Saffron Cordery, Deputy Chief Executive of NHS Providers Georgina Cox, Partner at PA Consulting Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First and former Education and Innovation Adviser to David Cameron. The event was chaired by Graham Atkins, Associate Director at the Institute for Government. We would like to thank PA Consulting for kindly supporting this event.

Boris Johnson should sack ministers who don't have green cars. So says one of our guests on this week's podcast, James Frayne, from policy research agency Public First. He joins Christopher Hope to talk about why he thinks ministers need to put their money where their mouth is when it comes to green policies, and why Westminster needs to accept that the car is here to stay.Also on the show: Conservative MP Owen Paterson on why the Taliban takeover is the UK's biggest source of shame since Suez and the US' since Saigon, and why he's more concerned than ever for veterans' mental health. Plus Tim Pitt, policy adviser to two former Tory Chancellors, on the age-old battle between Numbers 10 and 11, and why he thinks Rishi Sunak does not need to raise vast amounts in new taxes this Autumn after all. Read 'Boris must sack hypocrite ministers who refuse to buy an electric car' by James Frayne: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2021/08/14/boris-must-sack-hypocrite-ministers-refuse-buy-electric-car/ |For 30 days' free access to The Telegraph: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/chopper |Listen to Hong Kong Silenced: www.playpodca.st/hongkong |Email: chopperspolitics@telegraph.co.uk |See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Since the 2019 General Election, “levelling up” has been the Government's go-to slogan. The Queen's Speech set out an ambition to “level up opportunities across all parts of the UK”, the Chancellor unveiled a levelling up fund, the PM appointed a levelling up adviser, and the promise to level up featured heavily during the recent Hartlepool by-election. But what does levelling up actually mean? How does the Government intend to turn this slogan into reality? How can voters judge the success – or not – of the levelling up agenda at the next election?The Institute for Government is delighted to bring together an expert panel to discuss past efforts at distributing investment, creating job opportunities and increasing productivity, and to assess whether Boris Johnson's levelling up agenda will see the Conservatives hold on to electoral gains in the so-called Red Wall constituencies.On the panel are:John Godfrey, Corporate Affairs Director at Legal & General and former Head of Policy at No.10 (2016–17)Lord Mandelson, Chairman of Global Counsel and former European Commissioner for Trade and MP for Hartlepool (1992–2004)Giles Wilkes, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government and former Special Adviser to Theresa MayRachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First and former Education and Innovation Adviser to David CameronThe event is chaired by Bronwen Maddox, Director of the Institute for Government.#IfGlevellingupWe would like to thank Legal & General for kindly supporting this event. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Since the 2019 general election, 'levelling up' has been the government's go-to slogan. The Queen's Speech set out an ambition to "level up opportunities across all parts of the UK". The chancellor has previously unveiled a 'levelling up' fund. The prime minister has recently appointed a 'levelling up' adviser. And the promise to 'level up' featured heavily during the recent Hartlepool by-election. But what does 'levelling up' actually mean? How does the government intend to turn this slogan into reality? How can voters judge the success – or not – of the 'levelling up' agenda at the next election? The Institute for Government was delighted to bring together an expert panel to discuss past efforts at distributing investment, creating job opportunities and increasing productivity, and to assess whether Boris Johnson's ‘levelling up' agenda will see the Conservatives hold on to electoral gains in the so-called ‘red wall' constituencies. On the panel were: John Godfrey, Corporate Affairs Director at Legal & General and former Head of Policy at No.10 (2016–17) Lord Mandelson, Chairman of Global Counsel and former European Commissioner for Trade and MP for Hartlepool (1992–2004) Giles Wilkes, Senior Fellow at the Institute for Government and former Special Adviser to Theresa May Rachel Wolf, Founding Partner at Public First and former Education and Innovation Adviser to David Cameron The event was chaired by Bronwen Maddox, Director of the Institute for Government.

Rachel Wolf is co-author of the 2019 Conservative Party manifesto and co-founder of Public First - a policy and research consultancy. In this episode Rachel discusses her thoughts on education reform and the role of Government post-covid. Rachel talks to Lionel about her time working with Michael Gove and Dominic Cummings. She also chats about growing up in a family with a lot of brain power around the table.

What's behind Boris's plan for a green bonanza? (01:10) Can the West challenge China in the tech arms race? (14:50) Can the British handle grief? (24:05) With Katy Balls, The Spectator's deputy political editor; Rachel Wolf, a partner at Public First at co-author of the 2019 Conservative manifesto; author and journalist Ian Williams; politician and author Bruno Maçães; writer Fiona Mountford; and comedian and podcaster Cariad Lloyd. Presented by Lara Prendergast. Produced by Arsalan Mohammad.

In a post-pandemic environment, will a cross-sector strategy secure young people’s futures? Ndidi tries to convince Laura that this is vital, but Laura thinks otherwise. With special guests Anne Longfield, former Children’s Commissioner of England, and Jonathan Simons, Director at Public First and Head of The Education Strategy along for the ride, get ready for disagreement, persuasion, and being encouraged to step away from your siloes and join cross-sector forces! This week’s #AskYouth question is “What kinds of support do young people need coming out of lockdown?” – we speak to three young people aged 11-20 to get their views. Like educational podcasts? You’re bound to learn something new on every episode of #AreYouConvinced.

This week on the podcast we consider the fate of Education Secretary Gavin Williamson, and ask what ministers haver to do to get sacked these days. There's also a look at our new Skills to Thrive research, and a delve into the complexities of fair assessment during a pandemic.With Sue Rigby, Vice Chancellor at Bath Spa University; Jonathan Simons Director at Public First; Debbie McVitty, Wonkhe's Editor; and presented by Jim Dickinson, Wonkhe's Associate Editor.

It's the end of term at Wonkhe towers but the policy train is still trundling along, and so on the podcast we're discussing everything from Brexit, to a glut of paperwork from the Office for Students, UCAS figures and the dramatic return of the Free Speech University Rankings. Plus not one but two special musical interludes.With ​​Vivienne Stern, Director of Universities UK International, Jonathan Simons, Director at Public First and Head of the Education Practice, Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor at Wobnkher and presented by Wonkhe's Editor in Chief Mark Leach.

This week on the podcast the panel evaluates proposals on quality, standards and so-called “Mickey Mouse” courses. We also think through the great “reset” at No.10 and potential implications for higher education, international recruitment, and protections for students in the event of course, campus or whole provider closure.With Selena Bolingbroke, Consulting Fellow at the Halpin Partnership, Paul Inman, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at the University of Reading, Jonathan Simons, Director at Public First and Mark Leach, Editor in Chief at Wonkhe.

Luke 5:1-11 www.restoreaustin.org

James Frayne, co-founder of Public First, campaign strategist and author of corporate communications primer Meet the People, tells me why no organisation can truly avoid politics these days - no matter how much they may wish to. We talk about what that means for your communications strategy, how you should structure a communications team, and what to make of the whole 'purpose thing'. The main lessons?: Integrate all of your comms teams under one leader and one strategyPrepare for battle - no one likes being shouted at, so you need to plan rigorouslyActively listen to conversations about you - online and offlineLearn to distinguish between the parts of that conversation that actually matter and the elements that are ephemeral, by understanding what actually matters to the people who matter most to you. 

This week live from Wonkfest our guests reflect on two intense days of higher education wonkery. We also chat the coming general election and UCU's impending industrial action. With Andrea Burrows, MD at OES; Mary Curnock-Cook, Independent Education Expert; Jonathan Simons, Director at Public First; and Wonkhe's CEO Mark Leach.