IT contractors and other support staff play a vital role in the outstanding achievements in higher education, according to a new report.

The continued success of the university system relied on its ability to attract and retain highly talented, creative and innovative, according to the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).

Led by professor Paul Curran, the report is also aimed at addressing future staffing needs within higher education and the conditions needed for a healthy and sustainable workforce.

"This report enabled us to reflect on the changing characteristics of the English higher education workforce and highlight major challenges of the next few years," said Professor Curran.

Flexibility of the staff is high on the HEFCE's list of future requirements, with obvious benefits for skilled IT contractors looking to work in further education.

IT contractors with access to flexible working hours experience better health, Durham University reported last week.

"Flexible working seems to be more beneficial for health and wellbeing where the individuals control their own work patterns," according to Dr Clare Bambra of the Wolfson Research Institute at Durham University.