Helping or Hindering: Are universities supporting students enough or too much?
Thursday, 28 May 2026 | 6pm–8pm
Online
As universities expand the range of support they offer - from wellbeing services to academic adjustments - are they striking the right balance between helping students succeed and fostering independence? In this Keele Debate we’ll explore whether higher education is doing enough to support student needs, or whether too much intervention risks limiting preparation for life beyond university.
Chaired by Professor Kevin Shakesheff, Vice-Chancellor of Keele University, alongside Zoe Garnett, Wellbeing Officer at KeeleSU, join Sir Michael Barber, former Chair of the Office for Students, Jenny Shaw, HE External Engagement Director at Unite Students, Dr Paul Greatrix, Director of Higher Education Consultancy at Shakespeare Martineau, Sophie Borman, Development and Democracy Officer at KeeleSU, and Jim Dickinson, Associate Editor (SUs) at Wonkhe, for a lively discussion on the future of higher education - in association with KeeleSU and Keele Postgraduate Association.
The panel
Co-chaired by Professor Kevin Shakesheff
Vice-Chancellor of Keele University
Co-chaired by Zoe Garnett
Wellbeing Officer at KeeleSU
Sir Michael Barber
Former chair of the Office for Students
Jenny Shaw
Values-led leader in higher education and PBSA, with over a decade of senior experience in each sector
Dr Paul Greatrix
Director of Higher Education Consultancy at Shakespeare Martineau, with over 35 years working in the HE sector
Sophie Borman
Development and Democracy Officer at KeeleSU
Jim Dickinson
Associate Editor (SUs) at Wonkhe
