Commenting on the latest performance indicators published by the Higher Education Statistics Agency, Sir Martin Harris, Director of OFFA, said:
“I am encouraged to see the improvements in three of the four widening participation indicators for 2007-08, building on considerable progress in recent years. All four widening participation indicators have increased compared to 2005-06, the year before the introduction of variable fees.”
“These figures continue to provide reassurance that students from low participation neighbourhoods are coming to higher education in growing numbers. Bursaries and the student support package continue to play an important role in making sure that students are not deterred from higher education on financial grounds.”