UK Office for Students

Ruth Hannant and Polly Payne Appointed as OfS Chief Executives

The Office for Students (OfS) announces the appointment of Ruth Hannant and Polly Payne as chief executives by the Secretary of State for Education. They will join the OfS on 15 June 2026, succeeding Susan Lapworth. Josh Fleming, currently Director of Strategy and Delivery, will serve as interim chief executive from 1 April 2026.

Consultation on New Condition C6 for Student Consumer Protection in Higher Education

The Office for Students (OfS) is consulting on a new ongoing condition of registration (C6) that would require all registered universities and colleges to treat students fairly in relation to their higher education provision and supporting services. The proposed condition would mandate institutions to publish student protection documents including contracts, course change policies, complaints procedures, and refund/compensation information on their websites. The consultation closes on 9 July 2026, with final decisions expected in autumn 2026.

Maintenance Loan Eligibility for Weekend-Only Course Students

The UK Office for Students has published guidance for full-time weekend-only course students who have received maintenance loans for which they are ineligible. Students are in this position through no fault of their own. The OfS expects institutions to treat affected students fairly in line with consumer law, provide clear communications, avoid imposing additional unexpected costs, and ensure any course delivery changes are suitable for individual students.