Wales' progress in putting students at the heart of decision making in universities has been highlighted at a national conference.

NUS Wales president Luke Young was keynote speaker at the Workers in Democracy and Representation (WIDAR) Conference at University College London.

In his address he praised the developing relationship between universities and their student bodies, highlighting the emphasis on recognising students as partners not passive consumers in their learning.

However, the praise in Higher Education came with a clear warning about the role of students in Welsh further education colleges. The NUS Wales president warned against any move to remove student representation from the highest decision making bodies in Further Education.

The Humphreys Report on Governance in Further Education suggests creating a new model that would remove any reserved places for students on the governing bodies in Further Education institutions. NUS Wales believes this would be a step backwards and harm the positive work that has gone on to develop student engagement in recent years.

The recommendations are currently with the Education Minister for approval.

NUS Wales President Luke Young said:

"Wales is leading the way in creating a new partnership between the student body and the institution. While we still have a way to go, we are seeing more students involved in scrutinising their learning environment and university. There is a real opportunity to shape higher education in Wales in a way that rejects the market-led fascination currently being forced in England and shapes a progressive learning community.

However, we must not fall backward in Further Education. It is essential that students remain involved at the highest levels and on the governing bodies of FE colleges. We are clear that the Student Voice is equally important in both further and higher education. There can be no justification for removing students from the top table.”