Prepare for a day of deep insights into the future of student recruitment in the UK, both domestically and internationally. Hear directly from students about the latest trends, and gain essential updates on market shifts shaped by policy changes and both national and global events. The conference Chairs for the day will be for Insight Day will be Aaron Porter and Dan Barcroft, Director of Marketing, Admissions, Recruitment and Communications at the University of Sheffield.
Date: Wednesday 21st May 2025 |
Venue: Convene 200 Aldersgate, St Paul's, 200 Aldersgate St, London EC1A 4HD |
Timings: 9.30 am - 4.45 pm |
Dress code: Smart casual |
Given the current demands in the sector, we’ve maintained last year’s ticket prices to ensure continued value for delegates:
Institution: £125 + VAT |
Agency/non-institution: £175 + VAT |
Tickets for Insight Day are now open for booking! With limited availability, be sure to secure your spot by emailing the team at idp.ukorders@idp.com.
Bookings for Insight Day closes on Wednesday 7th May.
Time | Session details |
09:30-10:00 | Registration with refreshments and networking |
10:00-10:10 | Welcome and Introductions |
| Aaron Porter - Insight Day Co-chair |
10:10-10:30 | Keynote session Thriving Universities – Building a Stronger Future |
| Sebastian Gordon, Director of Communications, Universities UK |
10:30-11:00 | A Global Perspective |
| In this session, we’ll delve into the latest developments in the international student market and the evolving dynamics of recruitment. By drawing on global insights, we’ll explore how shifting political and economic trends are shaping strategies for UK institutions. Expect to gain practical, actionable insights on how to navigate these changes and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive landscape. |
| Simon Emmett Chief Partner Officer IDP Education, CEO IDP UK |
11:00-11:30 | The Results Are In: How UK Universities Are Shaping an Exceptional Student Experience |
| An exclusive deep dive into the WUSCAs 2025 student review data, featuring insights from over 36,000 authentic student reviews. Uncover the latest trends and shifting perceptions, and see where universities are truly shining — as well as the key areas that need attention. Gain valuable insights into how institutions are adapting to meet student expectations, and learn about the ongoing challenges in creating a truly exceptional student experience. This is your chance to stay ahead of the curve and make a lasting impact on student satisfaction! |
| Camilla King, Director of Client Partnerships, UK, and Amandeep Aulakh, Associate Head of Client Partnerships, UK Domestic, IDP UK |
11:30-11:50 | Networking break with refreshments |
11:50-12:10 | Leveraging Success: How University of Sheffield used the 'University of the Year' Win to Elevate Campaigns, Strengthen Student Communications and Build Confidence Internally Around the Value of Reputation |
| Discover how the University of Sheffield capitalised on its 'University of the Year' accolade to amplify campaign impact, enhance student communications, and boost internal confidence in the power of reputation. This session explores strategic initiatives, key learnings, and the tangible outcomes of aligning institutional success with brand storytelling and engagement. |
| Sarah Linington, Head of Marketing and Claire Hamilton, Deputy Director, Marketing and Student Recruitment, The University of Sheffield |
12:10-12:55 | Unlocking University Value: The Impact of Financial Education on Student Decision-Making |
| With a lack of financial education in our schools, who is responsible for ensuring our students are educated for their first independent budgeting? We’ll share feedback from students, career advisors, and parents, and look at how universities best support students during this crucial part of their decision-making journey. |
| Emma Bridge, Director of Marketing (Domestic B2C) and Jon Montgomerie, Associate Head of Client Success at IDP UK |
12:55-13:45 | Lunch |
13:45-14:30 | TAP into Student Minds: Connecting with Tomorrow’s Students in the Evolving Recruitment Landscape |
| Dive into the evolving preferences of prospective students and discover what truly resonates with them. In this session, we’ll explore what students want to hear, who they trust, and how your institution can forge stronger, more meaningful connections with your audience. Don’t miss out on key insights that will elevate your recruitment strategy. |
| Kyle Campbell, Founder, Managing Director at Education Marketer and George Olesen, CEO and Founder at The Ambassador Platform |
14:30-15:30 | Student Panel: Insights from Current and Prospective Students on the University Journey |
| Hear directly from a diverse panel of current and prospective international and domestic students as they share their personal journeys navigating the university selection process. Get an insider’s look at the information they valued most, the hurdles they faced, and the support they wish had been available. This session will give you invaluable insights into the student perspective, providing institutions with actionable strategies to enhance communication and create a smoother, more engaging experience from research to enrolment. |
15:30-16:00 | Coffee and networking |
16:00-16:45 | Expert Panel: The Future of UK Student Recruitment |
| Gain insights from a diverse expert panel as we uncover the future of student recruitment in the UK. We’ll explore the evolving landscape, revealing the projected size and shape of the market, and dive into the key trends and challenges set to define the sector in the coming years. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the changing needs of students, universities, and global dynamics, and discover how these shifts will revolutionise recruitment strategies. |
| The panel will include: Harry Anderson, Deputy Director for Policy and Global Engagement, Universities UK International (UUKi) |
| Diana Beech, Director of the Finsbury Institute & Assistant Vice-President for Policy and Government Affairs, City St George's, University of London |
| Rachel MacSween, Director of Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement, IDP UK |
| Charlotte Renwick, Director, Marketing, Communications and Student Recruitment at Aston University |
16:45-16:55 | Closing Remarks |
| Dan Barcroft, Director, The University of Sheffield - Insight Day Co-chair |
16:55 | Event close |
Tickets for Insight Day are now available to book! There are limited spaces - to secure your place, email the team at idp.ukorders@idp.com.
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