Strategic Pillar Two

A transformative and equitable space for free-thinking and collaboration, the RCA nurtures those with the most potential from all backgrounds. In active discussion with the world, our students, staff and researchers create a supportive community known as a world-leading place to study, work and explore.

On graduating, our students are welcomed into a global alumni community, building diverse networks and linking generations as they progress in their careers.

• Attract the broadest possible field of students and staff from across the UK and the world.
• Ensure a vibrant and inspiring student experience, equipping our students for post-study success.
• Make meaningful progress in creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work and study environment.
• Create a connected community that supports outstanding work and professional growth.
• Strengthen connections with the RCA global alumni community.

• Launch a fundraising campaign to ensure that 80% of UK students with financial need can receive scholarship support and to increase scholarships available for international students.
• Implement a new Student Recruitment Strategy, creating a student body of approximately 2,600–2,800 of the UK and the world’s best art and design students.
• Expand access to the RCA through Executive Education, Short Courses and opportunities for lifelong learning.
• Undertake a comprehensive review of the student journey and experience, delivering excellence and encouraging a sense of belonging, with an additional focus on enhanced career support and our students’ contribution to the UK creative sector.
• Deliver a comprehensive People Strategy to enhance staff development and wellbeing, supported by a co-created Better Workplace Action Plan.
• Launch a refreshed Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Strategy which prioritises inclusive recruitment and practices, as well as delivery activity to achieve Disability Confident Level 3 and Race Equality Charter Bronze status.
• Launch a new global Alumni Strategy with additional investment in alumni support.

• Building the RCA Endowment to diversify revenues and provide sustainable support for future students.
• Consolidating the RCA across two campuses – creating new spaces for networking, exploration and community-wide events.
• Creating a new Virtual Learning Environment to improve digital student experience.
• Implementing new approaches to academic and professional services career progression.
• Improving staff workload pressures through a comprehensive review of processes aligned to the review of Schools and Technical Services provision.