About

SW Spoke

The SW Region

The SW Spoke region covers the following 13 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs):

• Arts University College at Bournemouth
• Bath Spa University
• Bournemouth University
• University College Falmouth
• University College Plymouth St Mark and St John
• Open University in the South West
• Royal Agricultural College, Cirencester
• University of Bath
• University of Bristol
• University of Exeter
• University of Gloucestershire
• University of Plymouth
• University of the West of England, Bristol

These 13 HEIs constitute a substantial sector with influence in many spheres. In total, universities in the South West contribute £2.9bn to the regional economy.

SW England

Over 155,000 students study in the South West, 48% of which originate from the South West, 41% come from other parts of the UK and 11% are international students. The South West has the third highest level of academic attainment in England, with 29% of economically active adults qualified to at least degree level or above.

Together, universities create approximately 66,000 full time jobs and are some of the largest employers in the region. Universities in the South West have generated over 50 new companies with a turnover exceeding £20 million and over 295 active patents.

Three of the region's universities are in the top ten of the UK Green League 2009, receiving a first class award for their environmental management and performance. 

The SW Spoke Team

Delivery of the National HE STEM Programme across the SW region is coordinated by a team (as below) based at the University of Bath:

• Dr Fran Laughton (SW Spoke Director)
• Dr Sarah Chatwin (Assistant Regional Director)
• Ruth Waring (Development Officer for Higher Skills)
• Ed Stevens (Regional Officer for Widening Participation & Outreach)
• Alana Coyle (SW Spoke Administrator)

The SW Spoke team brings together HEIs from across the region and engages them directly in the activities of the national programme, as well as acting as a conduit through which national practice is channelled and embedded directly within the HE sector. The team is also responsible for enabling regional networks that bring together appropriate stakeholders.

The team ensures that activities both align with the aims and objectives of the national programme and with the unique industrial profiles and HE specialisms found in the SW.

Some related projects: