Structure of Aimhigher

The following diagram sets out the key elements and relationships for the national governance and management of Aimhigher.

This structure, which came into effect from August 2008, in line with the 2008-11 phase of the programme, aims to provide a straightforward process for effective governance and accountability.

Key roles and responsibilities are listed below:   

Aimhigher National Advisory Board
The National Advisory Board meets twice a year to consider reports on Aimhigher and to offer advice to the funders on the programme's future development.

Aimhigher Management Group (AMG)
The AMG comprises representatives from HEFCE, BIS, LSC and the WP co-ordination team (Action on Access) and is responsible for monitoring the programme. Meeting three times a year when Aimhigher funding is distributed, the AMG reviews progress made and commissions any action needed to support the programme.  

Area Partnership Committee (APC)
The APC is responsible for area planning and allocation of funding. The role of the APC is to:

• Secure good partnership relations and effective partnership working.
• Agree a strategic plan and annual operational plan and ensure appropriate reporting of plans through the annual monitoring statement
• Work with the lead HEI (see below) to ensure that financial monitoring is conducted and appropriate returns are made
• Devise an evaluation plan and submit an annual evaluation report in line with HEFCE guidance
• Ensure that Aimhigher resources are targeted in line with the targeting guidelines
• Secure agreement on the distribution of funding to schools, and the allocation of funding to partners and other agencies to deliver the plan
• Decide whether to collaborate with other areas to provide or commission specific services or activities in order to maximise coherence and value for money

Area Lead HEIs
Each of the 44 areas has a lead HEI, which acts as the banker and treasurer for the APC (see above) and is responsible for ensuring full accountability for funding. The lead HEI also holds responsibility for convening the APC, ensuring that it is fully representative of schools, colleges, HEIs, local authorities and other key stakeholders within each area.

Each lead HEI recruits an Aimhigher Co-ordinator, who acts as the principal organiser of Aimhigher activity and, on behalf of the APC, drafts the reports required by the funders (e.g. annual operational plan, annual monitoring statement, financial returns and evaluation plans and reports).

A summary of conditions of payment and an accountability framework for APCs and lead HEIs is available from the Funding page.