The first meeting of the network

Inaugural Meeting
LCACE Event - Goldsmiths University of London & City University
Inaugural meeting Friday October 27 2006, Goldsmiths University of London

Key points

There was a positive indication that a network could be useful if it provided appropriate benefits to members
It was acknowledger that there were already a number of networks that were concerned with some of the areas this network may deal with - but none specifically related to cultural policy across many sectors and HE
Having considered a few existing models - it was clear that what was needed was neither an Organised Network nor a Networked Organisation.
However this was conditioned by an understanding that when relating to other bodies/institutions particularly those close to government - speaking with the authority of an organisation which comprehensively represented a particular group - those concerned with teaching/researching cultural policy in HE - could be an advantage.
That in setting up a network the overall approach should be one of a ‘light touch’
That it should not seek to limit membership from any HE sector dealing with cultural policy
That a network should be clear about:
- What drives it?
- Remaining independent and should not pursue the agenda of other bodies such as ACE, DCMS, UNESCO although it might have a dialogue with them. That this would have funding implications as subscriptions would be required to maintain that independence.
Three potential areas activity emerged:
1. Research - providing a platform for encouraging and sharing research in Cultural Policy and Management - for both HE staff and students.
2. Practice - relating as a sector to Cultural Industries, Practitioners, Consultants and Think -Tanks.
3. Educational Practice - Sharing with network members
Each of the above may have an element of advocacy relating to the sector.
Other networks - having acknowledged that there were other networks that members belonged to (and many did not have the time to read all their output), IFICA, ELIA, ENCACT, AAAE, IETM - this network will only be effective if fulfils a specific need and is relevant to its membership. The interest in, and level of debate within the breakout groups (Workplace Learning, RAE, Teaching’ Leadership Working Internationally) would suggest that there is a need. It was understood that the network would have to be ‘participatory’ as it could not be funded as a service.
The Future
- The second inaugural event REVEALING ALL: an annual symposium for research students in cultural policy and management will take place at Somerset House 1/12/06.
- It is proposed that the two initiating HE institutions (Goldsmiths & City) develop the network in the short-term, creating a sustainable structure for the membership.
- That there is another network meeting after Easter 2007 and that it should be hosted by a regional institution. That institutions and individuals who indicated that their email addresses could be used on an initial database for the network will be informed of and asked to contribute to future events and the maintaining of the potential network infrastructure.
- That the network will have to create a name/ acronym for itself