The results from the fifth iteration of the Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF) reaffirm the University as a civic anchor, deeply embedded within the South East. It is actively supporting the future of Kent and Medway through strong partnerships, driving regional economic growth and innovation, as well as delivering events and activities for the benefit of local communities.

Professor Mike Weed, Senior Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research, Enterprise and Business Development) at Canterbury Christ Church University, said: “We are proud that our commitment to supporting our region has been recognised, and we are once again in the top 20% of English universities for our public and community engagement and research partnerships.

“Our partnerships across Kent and Medway are at the heart of our work. Whether it is working with our NHS partners, local schools and colleges, businesses or community groups and charities, our collaborative approach ensures that innovation and opportunity are not confined to the laboratory or meeting room, but are rooted in place, delivering tangible benefits for people across the region.

“By working hand-in-hand with local partners and supporting Kent and Medway to grow from strength to strength, we can ensure the region plays a pivotal role in the UK’s industrial strategy, seizing opportunities to contribute to national priorities.”

Our Pledges

Earlier this year, the University deepened its civic mission with the launch of Our Pledges, a new Civic University Agreement with key local partners. This five-year agreement sets out a shared vision to strengthen, celebrate and support Kent and Medway, placing people, place and partnerships at the heart of the University’s work. Through Our Pledges, Canterbury Christ Church University sets a clear commitment to equip the region with the skills it needs, focus research and innovation on its distinctive strengths, and build community partnerships that tackle inequalities and expand opportunity.

The KEF5 results confirm that the University is not only delivering on these commitments but exceeding national benchmarks, demonstrating how a university can combine a place-based mission with national impact. In doing so, Canterbury Christ Church University is helping to realise the Government’s ambition that universities should not only support growth, but lead it through their unique missions and expertise.

Key partnerships

Key initiatives delivered by the University, supporting regional growth and community engagement, include:

A new partnership with Southeastern to tackle regional skills shortages, support regional employment opportunities, and drive economic growth.

CoLab, a shared laboratory partnership between the University and Discovery Park, offering flexible, affordable lab space and access to specialist equipment for emerging life science companies. In 2024–25, it supported 22 projects with students involved in nearly half, contributing to local growth and regeneration.

A digital heritage project funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, supporting four East Kent museums to train volunteers with digital skills to protect at-risk archives and create interactive storytelling resources.

An Artificial Intelligence for Business and Enterprise Conference, offering delegates practical insights into AI’s predicted impact on businesses and individuals, and co-hosting the Medway Business and Innovation Conference, bringing together local businesses, universities, and policymakers to drive regional economic growth and innovation.

A popular Monday night film club with Curzon Canterbury Westgate.

Inspiring young students to engage with STEM through numerous outreach events, such as a record-breaking science jamboree at Discovery Park.

The region’s first conference focused on improving young people’s communication and oracy skills.

Hosting opportunities for local people to question candidates ahead of general and local elections at hustings, as part of the Making Politics Matter campaign.

Find out more about KEF5.

University recognised for its distinctive regional impact and public engagement