Reading joins London Higher universities group

Reading has strengthened ties with universities in London with membership of London Higher, the organisation that represents the interests of London through its world-leading universities.

The University of Reading joins more than 30 other member institutions of London Higher, including Imperial College, King’s College London and the London School of Economics and Political Science.

The University of Reading is already a part of a range of London partnerships and has historically forged strong links with London-based schools and research institutions. With the Elizabeth line providing further direct train connections from central London to Reading, the university and its students are closer than ever to the capital.  

London Higher said bringing Reading as a member would help its existing members gain from its expertise and connections in London, and expand opportunities to collaborate for the health of London and its economy.   

Professor Robert Van de Noort, Vice-Chancellor, University of Reading said:  “The University of Reading has much in common with universities in London and we have established connections through our research and civic engagement, and now in a very physical way via the Elizabeth line.

“This partnership with London Higher will help us collectively to elevate our voice in discussions about issues that affect higher education. I am optimistic that, working together, we can enhance the social, political and economic landscape of London and the Thames Valley. In uncertain times, none of us individually has all the answers, and networks like London Higher create the necessary platform for dialogue and cooperation so we can achieve a healthy, thriving and sustainable region.”  

Professor Amanda Broderick, Chair of the Board of London Higher, and Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of East London, said: “London Higher is rapidly becoming one of the most dynamic and impactful membership organisations in UK higher education. The fact that we are now in a position to welcome the University of Reading to the London Higher community is testimony to both the growing influence of the organisation and the shared interests of the capital and its neighbours.

“The addition of the University of Reading to London Higher’s membership marks an important milestone in London Higher’s evolution and shows that there is more that unites institutions in London and its surrounding areas than divides us. As Chair of London Higher, I am pleased to be able to extend a hand of partnership to influential institutions like Reading which are not only operating in close proximity to London but demonstrably share our commitment to providing opportunities for local Londoners and the London region alike.”  

Dr Diana Beech, Chief Executive Officer of London Higher said: “I am delighted to welcome the University of Reading to the London Higher membership for the start of the new academic year. Since working in and for the London region, I learned quickly that London’s boundaries are less fixed and more fluid, and that higher education institutions on both sides of the London border educate London students, work with London employers and undertake research and innovation firmly focused on alleviating London-centric challenges.

“As our capital and its connectivity to its surrounding areas grows, it is only right that London Higher grows with it, and having institutions like the University of Reading among our membership will ensure that collaborative activity of benefit to the wider region can progress unhindered across administrative boundaries.”