It all started with a conversation in 1918. Now we're the collective voice of 141 UK universities.
A timeline of UUK
- In late 1918, the first recorded meeting of 22 university leaders took place. Their founding mission was to create a united sector – regardless of geography, size and specialism – in a shared commitment to work for the good of society.
- In 1930, vice-chancellors agreed to formalise the arrangements, agreeing that ‘it is desirable in the common interests of the United Kingdom to constitute a Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Principals (CVCP) for purposes of mutual consultation’.
- During the 1970s and 1980s, changes in the organisation of the committee were made. Lord Flowers chaired a review of the role and structure of CVCP, which was completed in 1988 and led to the creation of an elected council.
- The next major change took place in 1992 when the membership increased to over 100 institutions due to legislation enabling polytechnics to become universities. Originally located in 38 Gordon Square, CVCP moved to 29 Tavistock Square in 1969. After moving across the square to its current home in Woburn House in 1997, for the first time the full committee was able to meet in its own premises.
- In 1999, as a direct result of devolution in Scotland and Wales, the National Council structure was created. Heads of Higher Education in Wales became the National Council for Wales and the Committee of Scottish Higher Education Principals became the National Council for Scotland.
- On 1 December 2000, CVCP became Universities UK. The change of name, logo and identity reflected the organisation’s evolution over the years. The National Councils also changed their names, logos and identities at the same time.
Universities UK today
Now, Universities UK is the collective voice of 141 universities in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Today, our membership reflects a vibrant, successful and diverse sector, but our mission on their behalf remains largely unchanged. For over 100 years we have spoken out in support of universities and the higher education sector.