I broadly agree with some points. Speaking as a medieval historian - yes things do change a lot and they have changed a lot in the last decade. Much of the common understanding of the medieval period is steeped in nationalistic views from the 19th century and a lot of what we do now is to unpick that so that it can no longer be co-opted by far right racist groups. That is just one small aspect. Another: we are no longer sure that there even were Anglo-Saxons. It's still in debate but while there is some evidence for invasions by Germanic peoples there is a lot of valid critiques and counter-evidence. This debate would not have been taught ten years ago.

These are small and specific points and ignores even new archaeological or other discoveries but I am sure other subject areas have similarly moved on. I think there are more arguments that each university should have a unique spread of skills, modules, degrees, and centres which dovetail together. Perhaps a survey course could be useful across several universities but beyond those early first year, first term modules I am doubtful they would be of value. I would suggest that if they were we would be in danger of very much watering down the quality that we offer. I think that the diversity of education, as long as it is of a good standard, is very important.

Finally, I think that the most valuable time I have with students is when we get to chat one-to-one. When we teach a lot of thought goes into joining up the lectures and seminars and this carries across to the chats with smaller groups. The seminars and smaller chats stem from the lectures and are constructed around them. If there are only a few 'star' lecturers on, say, British Colonial History then students are receiving a narrower, and poorer, education. This will end up with certain views and approaches, usually from well-resourced universities who over-represent the richer elements of society, being privileged over others. This is perhaps less important in some subjects than others but I think in the study of our past is potentially dangerous.

Sorry if this is rambly but it was written in haste. I think some of the points you make a valid and perhaps rather than less lecturers we need more lectures being made more widely available. I have no A-Levels and only got into university thanks to finding freely available lectures and other resources online about a decade ago. These type of resources can also supplement students attending less well resourced universities and just the general public!