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Most academics at a recent joint Natfhe/Association of University Teachers seminar on the Institute for Learning and Teaching were keen and positive about engaging in the nitty-gritty issues of equal opportunities, fee banding and how the ILT will require its members to engage with continuing professional development. Membership will enable academics to help shape the ILT's policy on these and other important issues (Soapbox, THES, February 4).

The threat of bureaucracy and who bears membership costs are important. But if it is to become a genuinely independent body the ILT cannot rely on government funding to subsidise membership fees. Rather, academics must push government to fund proper staffing to enable high-quality teaching to continue.

Alan John President, Natfhe