Getting ready for REF 2029: What the final guidance is likely to mean and how to prepare now

The strongest SPRE submissions are likely to be those that can explain the journey travelled. The published guidance explicitly recognises the value of showing the challenges faced, the actions taken, their effectiveness and the way evidence has informed further development.

In other words, an imperfect culture with a credible improvement story may be more persuasive than an apparently flawless culture described through generic institutional language.

Impact preparation must move beyond drafting

There is considerable continuity in the Engagement and Impact element. Impact case studies will remain the basis of assessment, using the established criteria of reach and significance, and the existing case study structure will broadly continue. However, the guidance encourages institutions to explain engagement strategies and responsible practices where these were important to generating impact.

The removal of the 2-star quality threshold for underpinning research potentially widens the range of eligible stories. Underpinning research will need to meet the REF definition of research, but institutions will no longer need to demonstrate that it crossed the previous minimum quality threshold. Smaller units with fewer than 9.99 full-time equivalent staff may submit one or two case studies.

This does not make impact preparation easier in the ways that matter most. Institutions will…