ASCL comment on university applications

Commenting on UCAS statistics on undergraduate applications, Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said:

“It is great news that more disadvantaged students have applied for university this year and that the gap has narrowed with applications from advantaged students. But progress on this front is grindingly slow. 

“This isn’t just a job for universities. Educational gaps between rich and poor begin from early in the lives of children and persist through childhood and adolescence. If we are ever going to genuinely address this issue, we must invest more in high-quality early years education, and provide better support for schools in areas of high disadvantage. 

“University is not necessarily the best option for all young people but it is a gateway to many rewarding careers and we must make access more equitable.”