What does it mean to be a specialist anyway? (Higher Education Policy Institute)
15 December 2025

The Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI) spotlighted a blog from Norland Head of Student and Academic Services Emma Maskell on how, for institutions like Norland, specialism is a superpower.
In the blog, Emma reflects on the recent Post-16 Education and Skills White Paper and its emphasis on specialisation. While many universities have moved towards a generalist model, she highlights how Norland remains a true specialist provider, pioneering early years education and care for over 130 years.
In the piece, Emma emphasises that specialisation brings challenges, including funding models and social mobility barriers, but stresses that Norland’s strong core purpose, ‘golden triangle’ of provision and graduate outcomes demonstrate how specialist institutions can thrive.
Read Emma’s blog on the HEPI website for more insights into how Norland’s specialism is a superpower.











