Leading in Rulemaking Excellence
WELCOME
Welcome to the College of Lawmakers website.
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The College is established to encourage improvements in lawmaking and regulation by enabling those involved to gain training and qualifications to enable them to perform their roles more effectively.
It is also intended to improve the experience of the public when faced with responding the demands of Parliament and rulemakers.
It focuses on principles of regulation, rather than on economic regulation issues.
Its principles are set out here.
Our Story....
About the College
The College encourages students and others to:
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participate in thought leadership,
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network with colleagues, and
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pursue qualifications.
It currently offers an Ofqual approved post-graduate diploma in rulemaking for those involved at a senior level, and is developing courses and qualification to lead up to Level 4 to Level 6 qualifications for those coming new to the field.
The Team
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The advisory board (TBA)
The Faculty
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The faculty normally includes practitioners at a senior level, judges, government law officers, behavioural psychologists
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The Officers
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Robin Ellison is the non-executive chairman of the board. He is a solicitor with over half-a-century of experience in dealing with lawmaking and regulation. He is the author of Red Tape: managing excess in law, regulation and the courts, Cambridge University Press. His CV is here.
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Dr Keith Hoodless is the Director of Education. He was formerly Director of Education at the Pensions Management Institute, holds a PhD in Education. His CV is here.
Process
Our Approach
At the College of Lawmakers, we are dedicated to advancing the quality and effectiveness of lawmaking and regulation while championing diversity, equality, and equity in the field. Our goal is to equip individuals from all backgrounds with the training, knowledge, and qualifications needed to excel in legislative and regulatory roles. We believe that inclusive, representative lawmaking leads to fairer, more effective policies that serve society as a whole.
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The College operates on a foundation of regulatory principles rather than economic regulation, ensuring that all students gain a broad, applicable understanding of lawmaking. We emphasise three core areas: Academic Qualifications, Professional Courses and
Thought Leadership, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
For those seeking formal Qualifications, the College offers an Ofqual-approved Postgraduate Diploma in Rulemaking, designed for senior-level professionals. Additionally, we are developing structured courses leading to Level 4 to Level 6 qualifications, providing accessible opportunities for individuals new to the field, regardless of their background or previous experience.
By participating in the College’s Professional Courses, students gain practical insights into how laws and regulations are crafted, interpreted, and implemented through an inclusive lens. Our mission is to ensure that legislation is not only effective but also representative and equitable, improving both the efficiency of lawmakers and the experiences of those impacted by legislative decisions.
Thought Leadership fosters inclusive discussions and research that contribute to equitable improvements in lawmaking. Networking opportunities allow students and professionals from diverse backgrounds to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on best practices.
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Ultimately, our mission is to improve both the efficiency of lawmakers and the experience of those impacted by legislative decisions by making rulemaking easier to understand and deliver upon.
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Join us in shaping the future of rulemaking and contributing to a more effective and transparent legal framework.
Empowering Future Leaders
At The College of Lawmakers, we are dedicated to providing high-quality online education for Continuing Professional Development.
We have a range of Qualifications, Courses and Seminars that both embrace and enhance the ability to effectively regulate.
Our innovative programs are designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their careers.
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Our Services
Qualifications Levels 4-6
​Unlock your potential with the College of Lawmakers' specialised qualifications in regulation. Our Level 4 to Level 6 courses are designed for professionals seeking to build expertise in the principles and practice of rulemaking.
Why Choose Our Qualifications?
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✅ Practical & Industry-Focused
✅ Structured for Progression
✅ Taught and delivered by Experts
✅ Recognised & Respected
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Your Path to Regulatory Excellence
📌 Level 4 – Foundations of Rulemaking
📌 Level 5 – Advanced Regulatory Practic:
📌 Level 6 – Mastering Lawmaking & Policy
Transform your career and make an impact in regulation. ​
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Apprenticeships
Shape the Future of Regulation​
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At the College of Lawmakers, our Level 4 to Level 6 Apprenticeships are designed to equip professionals with the expertise needed to navigate and influence the world of rulemaking. Whether you're new to the field or looking to advance, our structured training provides the knowledge and confidence to excel.
What Makes Us Unique?
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Regulation-Focused – Unlike generic law courses, our programs specialise in the principles of regulation, preparing you for real-world challenges.
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Practical & Applied Learning – Learn through case studies, interactive workshops, and hands-on projects that mirror actual regulatory environments and open doors to senior roles.
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Flexible Learning for Busy Professionals – Study while you work with a blend of online, in-person, and on-the-job training.
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Exclusive Networking Opportunities – Connect with lawmakers, regulators, and industry experts who shape policy and governance.
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Soft Skills in Regulation
Regulation isn’t just about rules, it’s about people, communication, and influence. At the College of Lawmakers, we equip you with the essential soft skills to navigate the complexities of the regulatory world with confidence and authority.
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What We Offer
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Persuasive Communication – Craft clear, compelling messages that drive action.
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Strategic Negotiation – Find common ground and influence outcomes.
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Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Navigate complex regulatory challenges with ease.
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Stakeholder Engagement – Build trust and credibility with key decision-makers.
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Resilience & Adaptability – Stay ahead in a fast-changing regulatory landscape.
Why It’s Unique?
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Tailored for Regulators
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Real-World Scenarios
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Expert-Led Training
Your Benefits
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Boost your professional credibility
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Improve decision-making under pressure
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Gain confidence in public speaking and stakeholder management
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Advance your career with skills regulators actually need
Courses & Seminars
Explore our range of Continuing Professional Development courses and seminars tailored to enhance your understanding of rulemaking and strategies for reducing bureaucratic red tape.
Flexible Learning
Our online platform offers flexible learning options, allowing you to balance your studies with your professional and personal commitments effectively.
Expert Faculty
Learn from industry professionals and experienced educators dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field of lawmaking.
Career Support
Access career guidance services and resources to help you navigate your career path in the realm of lawmaking and policy development.
Ready to elevate your expertise?
Resources
UK Government Initiatives
Smarter Regulation to Grow the Economy:
An initiative by the UK government aimed at reducing unnecessary regulations to cut costs and enhance business competitiveness. ​
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Review of Regulators to Cut Red Tape and Bureaucracy:
A government-led review to identify and eliminate burdensome regulations, improving outcomes for businesses and consumers.
International Organisations
Department for Business and Trade - Are the department for economic growth in the UK. They support businesses to invest, grow and export, creating jobs and opportunities across the country.
Civic Future - Civic Future identifies and educates talented people in early, mid, and late career, supporting them to make a public contribution. 
Institute of Regulation - The Institute of Regulation (IoR) is a membership organisation. We’re a professional network, providing professional development in regulation and promoting good practice in regulation.
Brookings Center on Regulation and Markets - The Center on Regulation and Markets at Brookings provides independent, non-partisan research on regulatory policy, applied broadly across microeconomic fields.
UK Regulation Network - Support and facilitate collaboration between regulators. Their core activity is based around our member networks, as well as hosting and facilitating stakeholder events.
Penn Program on Regulation - Since its founding in 2006, the Penn Program on Regulation has promoted regulatory excellence by shedding light on how regulation and regulatory institutions work in practice and whether they can be managed better to achieve their intended goals.
Cato Institute - The Cato Institute is a public policy research organisation—or think tank—that creates a presence for and promotes libertarian ideas in policy debates.
London School of Economics - The London School of Economics and Political Science, established in 1895, is a public research university in London, England, and a member institution of the University of London.
Associated Organisations
Department for Business and Trade - Are the department for economic growth in the UK. They support businesses to invest, grow and export, creating jobs and opportunities across the country.
Civic Future - Civic Future identifies and educates talented people in early, mid, and late career, supporting them to make a public contribution. 
Institute of Regulation - The Institute of Regulation (IoR) is a membership organisation. We’re a professional network, providing professional development in regulation and promoting good practice in regulation.
Brookings Center on Regulation and Markets - The Center on Regulation and Markets at Brookings provides independent, non-partisan research on regulatory policy, applied broadly across microeconomic fields.
UK Regulation Network - Support and facilitate collaboration between regulators. Their core activity is based around our member networks, as well as hosting and facilitating stakeholder events.
Penn Program on Regulation - Since its founding in 2006, the Penn Program on Regulation has promoted regulatory excellence by shedding light on how r egulation and regulatory institutions work in practice and whether they can be managed better to achieve their intended goals.
Cato Institute - The Cato Institute is a public policy research organisation—or think tank—that creates a presence for and promotes libertarian ideas in policy debates.
London School of Economics - The London School of Economics and Political Science, established in 1895, is a public research university in London, England, and a member institution of the University of London.
Library
1. "Red Tape: Managing Excess in Law, Regulation and the Courts" – Robin Ellison (2018)
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Summary: Robin Ellison’s Red Tape examines how excessive regulation, particularly in legal and financial systems, creates inefficiencies, inflates compliance costs, and hinders innovation. Using case studies, he illustrates how bureaucratic complexity burdens businesses and individuals. He advocates for simplifying legal frameworks, holding regulators accountable, and ensuring regulations are proportionate to their purpose.
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Relevance: The book highlights the dangers of overregulation and offers practical reforms to streamline legal and financial governance. By promoting simplification, accountability, and proportionality, it serves as a valuable guide for policymakers and business leaders aiming to balance regulation with economic growth.
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2. "Clear Pathways" - Dr Keith Hoodless (2025)
Summary: Dr. Keith Hoodless' Clear Pathways explores the regulatory burden in the UK, highlighting its impact on businesses, especially SMEs​. It advocates for risk-based and outcome-focused regulation, digital transformation, and stakeholder collaboration to streamline compliance​. The book draws on international best practices to balance oversight with economic growth​.
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Relevance: The book provides a roadmap for reducing unnecessary regulations while maintaining essential protections. It promotes smart, risk-based regulation, digital innovation, and global best practices to create a more efficient, business-friendly regulatory environment.
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3. "The Logic of Bureaucratic Conduct" – James Q. Wilson (1989)
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Summary: A foundational text that examines the nature of bureaucracy, why it exists, and how public organisations function differently from private entities.
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Relevance: Provides insights into the motivations behind bureaucratic expansion and inefficiencies.
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4. "Cutting Red Tape: Why Regulations Hurt Small Businesses" – Richard Epstein (2003)
Summary: Epstein argues that excessive regulation hampers small businesses by increasing costs and reducing competitiveness. He provides examples of harmful regulations and offers market-based alternatives.
Relevance: Useful for policymakers and business owners looking for regulatory reform strategies.
5. "Bureaucracy" – Ludwig von Mises (1944)
Summary: A classic economic perspective on the inefficiencies of bureaucratic institutions and how they differ from private enterprises.
Relevance: Provides a libertarian critique of bureaucratic growth and inefficiency.
6. "Simple Rules for a Complex World" – Richard A. Epstein (1995)
Summary: Argues that legal and regulatory systems should be simplified to foster economic growth and efficiency.
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Relevance: Advocates for legal simplification as a way to reduce regulatory red tape.
7. "Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness" – Richard Thaler & Cass Sunstein (2008)
Summary: Introduces behavioral economics concepts to reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies by subtly guiding people toward better decision-making.
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Relevance: Offers a regulatory approach focused on "nudging" rather than strict legal mandates.
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8. "Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty" – Daron Acemoglu & James A. Robinson (2012)
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Summary: Explores how political and economic institutions shape national prosperity, including the role of red tape in stifling development.
Relevance: Highlights how excessive bureaucracy can harm economic growth on a national scale.
Contact Us
Address
Moor Place
1 Fore St Ave
City of London
London
EC2Y 9DT
Contact
020 3695 7895
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07950 295117
07305 805493
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri
8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Saturday
9:00 am – 7:00 pm
​Sunday
9:00 am – 9:00 pm