Key performance measure 4

‘We will deliver our work in collaboration with students and the institutions we regulate. We will cultivate relationships based on mutual respect, confidence and trust.’ (The OfS strategy 2025 to 2030)

To be an effective regulator, it is important we have productive working relationships with the institutions we regulate, enabling institutions to engage openly and constructively. This means communicating with providers in ways that are clear, accessible and have an appropriate tone.

This KPM reports the proportion of accountable officers who agree that the OfS communicates clearly and appropriately, and that we operate in ways conducive to collaborative working. Accountable officers are typically head of their provider and have overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with OfS regulation. Their views on the extent to which the OfS is supporting collaborative practice are a useful indication of our performance. 

KPM 4 shows that the majority of accountable officers (61 per cent) agree OfS communications are clear and easy to understand and just over half (53 per cent) agree they can engage constructively with the OfS.

Just under half of accountable officers (47 per cent) agree that the tone of OfS communications is appropriate. 42 per cent agree that the OfS considers sector feedback and 39 per cent agree the OfS works collaboratively with the sector.

This KPM draws on the results of our stakeholder survey of accountable officers at institutions registered with the OfS. This is a voluntary, online survey administered annually by an external supplier (Savanta) on behalf of the OfS. The first survey was conducted in early 2026 and it will be repeated at the same time annually.

All accountable officers were invited to complete a 5–10 minute survey by email. Respondents received an initial invitation from Savanta, followed by two reminders each a week apart, and a final reminder directly from the OfS. Of 428 accountable officers invited, 171 completed the survey (40 per cent response rate). The responses were representative across institution types.

This KPM shows the proportion of accountable officers who 'strongly agree' or 'somewhat agree’ with the following five statements:

1. The OfS considers sector feedback.
2. The OfS works collaboratively with the sector.
3. I can engage constructively with the OfS.
4. OfS communications are clear and easy to understand.  
5. The tone of OfS communications is appropriate.