The Office for Fair Access (OFFA) welcomed Alan Milburn’s report on access to higher education, University Challenge: How Higher Education Can Advance Social Mobility, published today.
Professor Les Ebdon, Director of Fair Access to Higher Education, commented:
“I welcome this report and note that a number of its recommendations are directed at OFFA. We will actively consider these.
“In particular, I am very happy that the report recognises the importance of universities working with schools and communities, getting involved in mentoring, masterclasses, summer schools and so forth.
“Evidence shows that when you work with students over a number of years, this is a very effective way to encourage clever young people to aspire to go to higher education. Everyone with the potential to succeed in higher education should have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their background.
“As the report says, this needs to start early in the school career, so that young people get the information they need to make the choices that enable them to go to higher education, for example choices about which subjects to study.
“Sustained, targeted outreach is key to improving access to higher education for students with the potential to succeed at university or college.
“This is why OFFA encourages universities and colleges to increase their outreach activity. Schools and parents are the most important influences on a child’s aspirations, but universities share the responsibility too.”
Notes for editors
- The report University Challenge: How Higher Education Can Advance Social Mobility is published today at http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/content/independent-reviewer-social-mobility-and-child-poverty. OFFA contributed to the review that led to the publication of this report.