Universities of Kent and Greenwich announce formal collaboration creating a new “super university”
The University of Greenwich and University of Kent have announced plans to formally collaborate and create a new “super university” called the London and South East University Group.
The new model will bring both universities under the same structure, while still keeping their own names, identities and local presence. Students will continue to apply to, study at, and graduate from their chosen university, allowing the two institutions to retain their identity, while benefiting from the scale of the new group.
The new “super university” will have one governing body, academic board, and executive team - and one Vice Chancellor. The first Vice Chancellor will be Professor Jane Harrington, who currently holds the position at University of Greenwich.
The new university group, due to launch in autumn 2026, will create one of the largest higher education institutions in the UK and the largest in the South of England. The group will also be the largest recruiter of students in London and the South East.
The universities claim the move will create a first-of-its kind university group in the UK and a “blueprint for other institutions to follow”.
“Our vision is to deliver education without boundaries, from city to coast. Combining the strengths of two proud institutions gives us a greater foundation to transform lives and unlock opportunity across London and the South East,” Professor Harrington comments.
“Students will remain at the heart of everything we do, as we continue to provide innovative teaching, personalised support and a culture that celebrates individuality. As a civic university group, we will be a powerful force for our region – energising communities, upskilling local people and partnering with business to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
Professor Georgina Randsley de Moura, Acting Vice Chancellor and President at the University of Kent adds: “This exciting collaboration is about harnessing the combined power of two ambitious universities looking to the future, to ensure we are sustainable, impactful and can make a bigger difference to the communities we serve.
“Together, we can deliver world-class teaching, grow research that tackles real-world challenges, and create new opportunities for people and places across our wider region. From supporting health and wellbeing to driving innovation in food, sustainability and the creative industries, our work will have an impact locally, nationally and globally. Importantly, we will foster a culture where staff and students thrive, collaborate and succeed together.”
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