RNCM achieves national recognition in KEF5

The RNCM is proud to announce its continued success in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF5), which highlights our commitment to impactful knowledge exchange and its vital role in the cultural and economic life of Greater Manchester, the North of England, and beyond.

As one of the UK’s leading conservatoires, the RNCM’s KEF5 results reflect our dedication to sharing knowledge through innovative teaching, research, and public engagement. The College’s unique approach combines internationally leading classical and popular music training, with digital technology and research-led practice embedded throughout its curriculum. Each year, we welcome over 900 students from more than 60 countries, engage with over 7,000 community and school participants, and reache millions through performances, broadcasts, and outreach activities.

Photo taken during the RNCM’s Music for Parkinson’s concert.

Knowledge exchange activities are at the heart of the RNCM’s mission – whether through public concerts, collaborative research, or partnerships with local and national organisations. Our work in areas such as music and wellbeing, digital innovation, and entrepreneurship has been recognised through national awards and significant funding, and our commitment to local growth and regeneration is demonstrated through our partnerships with schools, music hubs, and leading arts organisations across Greater Manchester and the North.

We are delighted to have been named in the official UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) news release announcing the KEF5 results, which celebrates the achievements of higher education providers across the UK in powering economic growth through smarter knowledge exchange. The RNCM was referenced to evidence ‘real progress’ across the sector, as we moved from the lowest to highest score for CPD and graduate start-ups in only two years. This national recognition underscores the RNCM’s leadership in the creative industries and our ongoing contribution to the UK’s knowledge economy.

While celebrating these achievements, the RNCM also acknowledges the ongoing challenges faced by specialist arts institutions in the current KEF metrics, which often do not fully capture the breadth and social impact of creative knowledge exchange. The RNCM remains committed to advocating for a more inclusive framework that recognises the unique contributions of the arts to society.

26 September 2025