Keele Open Strategy Journal
Keele University is at an important point in its development. By November 2026, we will have a new institutional strategy that sets out a distinctive and ambitious vision for the University, shaped through wide engagement across our community. The Keele Open Strategy Journal sits at the heart of this process, providing an open, transparent and genuinely collaborative way for ideas to be shared, developed and debated.
The Keele Open Strategy Journal provides an open and transparent record of how ideas have contributed to the development of Keele University's next institutional strategy.
Throughout 2026, colleagues from across the University have submitted ideas through the Open Strategy process. These ideas have been reviewed and refined through constructive feedback from the Strategic Ideas College and Peer Review College before being published here.
Read more + Close - about the Keele Open Strategy Journal
The Journal is designed to make strategy development visible. The ideas published here do not represent final University policy. Rather, they form part of an ongoing conversation about Keele's future and will help inform the development of the new University Strategy.
We welcome engagement from staff, students, alumni, partners and members of the wider community. Readers are encouraged to share their views and perspectives using the comment facility at the bottom of each article. Thoughtful discussion, challenge and debate are an important part of the Open Strategy process.
Throughout 2026, the Vice-Chancellor and senior leadership team will draw on the ideas, themes and discussions captured within the Journal as the new University Strategy is developed. The Journal will also serve as a lasting public record of the contributions made by colleagues and stakeholders in shaping Keele's future.
Read and comment on Keele Open Strategy Journal articles
ID000 Re-establishing Keele’s Leadership in Broad, Future-Focused Education
Re-establishing Keele’s Leadership in Broad, Future-Focused Education: Breadth with Purpose to Equip Students and Graduates for a Rapidly Changing World
ID000
Abstract: We propose that Keele should reassert a defining feature of its founding vision: the belief that a broad, interdisciplinary education produces more capable, adaptable, and socially engaged graduates.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, The Future of Research and Innovation
Interdisciplinary education, future-focused learning, graduate adaptability, curriculum innovation, civic engagement
ID003 Universal Learning at Keele
Universal Learning at Keele: Building an Inclusive Learning Community Beyond Campus
ID003
Abstract: An approach to learning that enables high-quality participation across physical and digital spaces, ensuring that students can remain connected to the academic community regardless of circumstance
A Unique Keele Education, Civic and Community Activities
Inclusive learning, flexible participation, blended education, student belonging, digital accessibility
ID004 Keele University Dental Institute
Keele University Dental Institute
ID004
Abstract: There is an urgent need to expand the number of UK Dental, Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy training places2. For 2025-6 Dentistry remains one of the top 10 most-applied for courses
A Unique Keele Education
Dental education, workforce shortages, healthcare training, regional inequality, clinical placements
ID005 Reduced Working Hours Proposal
Reduced Working Hours Proposal
ID005
Abstract: As the University shapes its future strategic direction, this is an ideal moment to explore a reduced‑hours working week for staff with no reduction in salaries.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
Reduced working hours, four day week, staff wellbeing, workplace productivity, digital innovation
ID006 Green Salary Sacrifice Scheme
Green Salary Sacrifice Scheme
ID006
Abstract: Keele University has a significant opportunity to strengthen its sustainability leadership by expanding staff access to environmentally beneficial technologies through enhanced salary sacrifice scheme
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Green transport, salary sacrifice, net zero, carbon reduction, renewable energy
ID007 Strong in shaping ourselves
Strong in shaping ourselves
ID007
Abstract: Global geopolitical shifts, technological disruption, and changing international alliances are fundamentally reshaping the environment in which universities operate.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
Global engagement, international partnerships, cultural intelligence, geopolitical change, strategic positioning
ID008 Using Keele’s Campus and Green Spaces
Using Keele’s Campus and Green Spaces to Engage Communities in a Sustainable Future
ID008
Abstract: Develop Keele’s campus & green spaces as a flagship outdoor learning, sustainability engagement & creative placemaking environment; reposition the campus as a living laboratory & cultural destination
Sustainability and Innovative use of our campus, Civic and Community Activities
Outdoor learning, campus sustainability, community engagement, nature based education, creative placemaking
ID010 Embedding Digital Accessibility
Embedding Digital Accessibility as a Core Capability across Keele University
ID010
Abstract: As Keele's activity becomes increasingly digital, accessibility is not a peripheral technical issue, but a fundamental condition of inclusion, quality and trust.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
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ID011 Development of an integrated leadership and management route
Development of an integrated leadership and management route for all subjects following a GCP structure
ID011
Abstract: Employability is biggest metric that we get asked about on open/visit days and leadership and management (L&M) modules would provide the university with a USP with regard to this.
A Unique Keele Education, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Leadership, management, employability, modules, graduate skills
ID015 Block/Condensed Timetabling
Block/Condensed Timetabling
ID015
Abstract: Keele should move to a system where timetabling is condensed into blocks, such that students experience all of their scheduled classes across a smaller number of days of the week.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Condensed timetabling, student commuting, flexible scheduling, widening participation, student experience
ID016 A Centralised On Campus Jobs Service
A Centralised On-Campus Jobs Service to Enhance Student Outcomes and Institutional Efficiency
ID016
Abstract: An on-campus service would bring a range of benefits around the student experience from well-being, mental health, financial support, skills development, creating belonging.
A Unique Keele Education, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
On-campus jobs, centralised service, student employment, skills development, recruitment efficiency
ID017 Excellence
Excellence
ID017
Abstract: In a competitive sector with well-established markers of quality, an effective way to stand out and succeed is to be excellent – and be recognised as such, nationally and globally.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
Institutional excellence, university rankings, research quality, student outcomes, strategic ambition
ID018 The Pursuit of Truth
The Pursuit of Truth: using first year modules to prepare students for higher education at Keele
ID018
Abstract: Keele has been and should continue to be a pioneer in the field of university education.
A Unique Keele Education
Critical thinking, academic skills, student transition, interdisciplinary learning, widening participation
ID019 In the Company of Friends
In the Company of Friends: actively welcoming visitors to Keele and actively seeking a presence in the local region
ID019
Abstract: Currently Keele is too much of an ivory tower on a hill. Too many people in the local area never visit and have never visited Keele.
Civic and Community Activities
Community engagement, campus experience, local outreach, visitor attraction, civic presence
ID020 Civic And Commercial Sense
Civic And Commercial Sense: funding the Higher Horizons outreach programme
ID020
Abstract: Keele currently hosts and is the lead institution for Higher Horizons, a partnership of the Government funded outreach programme. Higher Horizons has never been funded directly by the university.
Civic and Community Activities
Outreach funding, widening participation, student recruitment, community partnerships, educational access
ID021 Uphill Struggle - The plight of the commuting student
Uphill Struggle: The plight of the commuting student and what Keele can do about it
ID021
Abstract: National trends and recent Keele enrolment suggests that the commuting student is increasingly mainstream and typical, not the exception.
A Unique Keele Education, Civic and Community Activities, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Commuting students, accessibility, transport barriers, student belonging, flexible timetabling
ID024 Transnational engagement, collaboration and community building
Transnational engagement, collaboration and community building
ID024
Abstract: Engagement and collaboration are vital in an globalised world, in which to be global is to be local, regional, national and international, connected physically, digitally and consciously as we are.
A Unique Keele Education
Transnational engagement, global collaboration, community building, international partnerships, knowledge exchange
ID025 Upskilling the Workforce
Upskilling the Workforce
ID025
Abstract: The UK workforce requires significant upskilling if national productivity is to improve and remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy. Many sectors are experiencing skills gaps.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, Civic and Community Activities
Workforce upskilling, professional development, skills gaps, lifelong learning, industry partnerships
ID026 Short Courses with a Global Reach
Short Courses with a Global Reach
ID026
Abstract: Keele University could expand its global reach and income by offering short online courses focused on major international issues and professional skills.
A Unique Keele Education
Online short courses, global learning, professional skills, micro credentials, lifelong learning
ID027 Supporting New Parents at Keele
Supporting New Parents at Keele
ID027
Abstract: We propose that policy and support for expectant and new parents at Keele is given key consideration and reflects the needs of the workforce with a view of a second phase looking at wider support
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Parental support, EDI, wellbeing, inclusion, staff retention, parents
ID028 The Keele Community Garden and Play Space for All
The Keele Community Garden and Play Space for All
ID028
Abstract: Keele University takes pride in its distinctive 600-acre campus, which is central to the student experience and to the University’s identity as a community-focused institution.
Sustainability and Innovative use of our campus, Civic and Community Activities, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Community garden, outdoor space, student wellbeing, social interaction, campus development
ID029 Employer Partnership Panel for Future-Ready Graduates
Employer Partnership Panel for Future-Ready Graduates
ID029
Abstract: To remain ahead of this curve, Keele could adopt a more systematic approach by establishing a core panel of employer partnerships
A Unique Keele Education, The Future of Research and Innovation
Employer partnerships, graduate employability, industry collaboration, skills alignment, work ready graduates
ID031 AI in Professional Services
AI in Professional Services
ID029
Abstract: To remain ahead of this curve, Keele could adopt a more systematic approach by establishing a core panel of employer partnerships
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
Artificial intelligence, professional services, digital transformation, process improvement, organisational innovation
ID033 Change Management
Change Management – Intrinsic to a Successful Project Outcome
ID033
Abstract: Change Management is a structured approach to leading the people side of transformations, ensuring new processes, technologies, or structures are adopted smoothly
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Change management, stakeholder engagement, organisational change, project delivery, staff engagement
ID038 Building Digital Confidence for a Future‑Ready University
Building Digital Confidence for a Future‑Ready University
ID038
Abstract: To prepare students for a digital-first workforce, we must first build the digital confidence and capability of our staff
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
Digital confidence, digital skills, staff upskilling, digital literacy, future ready
ID058 Transforming research so it can be used by those who would benefit
Transforming research so it can be used by those who would benefit
ID058
Abstract: Our idea is to build Knowledge Mobilisation for impact into every research portfolio. Keele’s research strategy has emphasised its institutional strength in Knowledge Mobilisation for impact.
The Future of Research and Innovation
Knowledge mobilisation, research impact, knowledge exchange, applied research, impact acceleration
ID059 Meeting the Growing Demand for Flexible PGT Delivery
Meeting the Growing Demand for Flexible PGT Delivery
ID059
Abstract: This proposal utilises quantitative and qualitative evidence on the upward trend in demand for flexible delivery of PGT programmes, and offers recommendations to enable Keele to remain competitive.
A Unique Keele Education
Flexible delivery, online learning, part-time study, multiple intakes, block timetabling
ID060 Adjunctive Researchers
Adjunctive Researchers
ID060
Abstract: The idea is to strategically increase research productivity and international collaboration by introducing adjunct researchers.
The Future of Research and Innovation
Adjunct researchers, collaboration, productivity, internationalisation, research funding
ID062 Institute for Creative and Cultural Industries
The Keele Institute for Creative and Cultural Industries (KICCI)
ID062
Abstract: The idea is to develop a cross-University Keele Institute for Creative and Cultural Industries (KICCI), which will organise and increase the academic and partnership work of creative activity at Keele
The Future of Research and Innovation
Creative industries, cultural partnerships, interdisciplinary collaboration, creative education, community engagement
ID066 International Partnership Hubs at Keele
International Partnership Hubs at Keele
ID066
Abstract: Rather than only exporting Keele programmes overseas, we could develop institutes with our international partners, or work with new ones.
A Unique Keele Education, The Future of Research and Innovation, Civic and Community Activities
International partnerships, global campuses, co-delivery, internationalisation, student experience
ID081 Streamlined and Standardised Systems Architecture
Streamlined and Standardised Systems Architecture
ID066
Abstract: One response to challenges facing the HE sector could be creating a strategic and agile approach to investment, aligning technology capability to strategic direction, whilst minimising operating costs
A Unique Keele Education, The Future of Research and Innovation, Civic and Community Activities
Systems architecture standardisation, application rationalisation, cost optimisation, HERM framework, service design alignment
ID091 Re-imagining our Global Challenge Pathways
Re-imagining our Global Challenge Pathways as a Distinctive Feature of Keele’s Education Offer
ID091
Abstract: To address the challenges faced by today's graduates, we propose that Keele’s Global Challenge Pathways project is re-imagined, rebranded, expanded and offered to all Keele undergraduate students.
A Unique Keele Education
Global Challenge Pathways, interdisciplinary education, sustainability and SDGs, graduate employability skills, embedded curriculum design
ID103 Keele Commercial Function
Keele Commercial Function
ID103
Abstract: Establish a small team dedicated working across the institution to identify, assess, prioritise, secure and deliver tendered opportunities, external grant funding and other financial instruments
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
Commercial function development, external funding acquisition, tender opportunities, income generation, strategic investment support
ID112 Skills Recognition, Profiles and Organisational Mobility for Staff
Skills Recognition, Profiles and Organisational Mobility for Staff
ID112
Abstract: This proposal suggests a redefinition or reimagining of staffing structures, both academic and amongst professional services across the University
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Skills recognition, staff skills profiles, organisational mobility, internal secondments, talent optimisation
ID133 Overnight Campus Accommodation for Commuting Students
Overnight Campus Accommodation for Commuting Students
ID133
Abstract: Overnight campus accommodation for commuting students who want to attend a social event or ensure they are on campus for an early exam or lecture the next day.
Sustainability and Innovative use of our campus, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Overnight accommodation, commuter students, campus access, student support, flexible housing
ID158 Improving Campus Space Utilisation
Improving Campus Space Utilisation
ID158
Abstract: The University has 43 buildings located unevenly on campus. This is a large number of buildings for the size of the student body and involves high maintenance costs, alongside other challenges.
Sustainability and Innovative use of our campus
Space utilisation, estate efficiency, campus consolidation, cost reduction, environmental sustainability
ID188 All academic staff, at every level of seniority, should teach
All academic staff, at every level of seniority, should teach
ID103
Abstract: All academic staff in the University, at every level of seniority, should undertake some teaching in each academic year
A Unique Keele Education, Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design, Improving staff and student experience and wellbeing
Academic teaching participation, student experience, leadership engagement, informed decision-making, institutional communication
ID193 The Long-Minded University: A Century-Scale Living Artwork at Keele
The Long-Minded University: A Century-Scale Living Artwork at Keele
ID193
Abstract: We propose that Keele establishes a defining, long-term cultural programme that unfolds over decades—positioning the University as a leader in long-minded thinking and civic imagination.
Institutional Effectiveness and Organisational Design
Long-minded thinking, intergenerational participation, living artwork, sustainability and ecological stewardship, civic engagement and future archive