STATE SCHOOL STUDENTS SHUN UNIVERSITY AS COSTS SOAR

2.28.04pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 16th Aug 2006

High costs are detterring many from university

As pupils receive their A-level grades this week, local MP Andrew Stunell has spoken out about the rising cost of university that is deterring many pupils from going. The proportion of state school students gaining places at many universities, including Manchester, has fallen for a second year running. There has also been a dramatic rise in the drop out rate.

A report by Vice Chancellors of Britain's top universities says one in six students drop out or fail their course, many from low-income families. Students say they can't afford to continue.

Mr Stunell said

"Today when A Level students decide whether to attend university their main concern is whether they can manage their overdraft rather than whether they can manage the work."

"The number of state school pupils going to Manchester University fell by almost 2% between 2004 and 2005. With the introduction of top-up fees this autumn, this trend is likely to continue."

"Further Education should be available to all whatever their social background, but the current system is elitist and is failing bright students from low income backgrounds. That's why the Liberal Democrats abolished Tuition Fees in Scotland, and why I want to see the same here in England."