A year of growth: Medr publishes first annual report

Medr, Wales’s Commission for Tertiary Education and Research, has published its first annual report and accounts, documenting the highlights and success of its first eight months of operation.

Over the reporting period, Medr, which became operational in August 2024:

• Invested more than £686 million in the tertiary education and research sector, ensuring financial support and stability for providers and learners.

• Delivered a smooth organisational transition, ensuring it continued its regulatory oversight for the tertiary education sector throughout a period of significant change.

• Built strong relationships with providers and stakeholders, and promoted collaboration across the sector.

• Set out its long-term vision for the tertiary sector through its first Strategic Plan, following extensive consultation with learners and stakeholders.

• Laid the foundations for a strong organisation that has high standards of accountability and responsibility for public funds; prioritises learners and collaborative working; and supports and develops its staff.

James Owen, Chief Executive of Medr, said:

“This was a huge first year for our ground-breaking organisation where we had the opportunity to set a dynamic course for the future of learners, communities, and our economy.

“That we effectively supported the sector to the tune of almost £700 million in our first eight months, while maintaining our regulatory oversight, shines a light on our professional, capable and collaborative staff.

“Ensuring we support an inclusive, joined-up sector that serves current and future learners to reach their potential has been key for us from the beginning, and we are excited to see the impact of our Strategic Plan – that advocates for a strong tertiary education and research sector – over the coming months and years.”

Medr’s annual report for the period August 2024 – March 2025 was laid before the Senedd in December 2025 and is available on the Medr website.

Annual Report and Accounts 2024-25

Medr’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030