Cuts 'failing university applicants'

16 August 2010

Commenting on media reports of comments made by the universities and science minister, David Willetts, on the quality of information, advice and guidance provided by state schools and teachers to students considering university, Dr Patrick Roach, deputy general secretary of the NASUWT, the largest teachers' union, said:

"It is wholly unfair of the minister to try to blame schools for the consequences of decisions taken by university admissions officers. Mr Willetts would do better if he spent more of his time ensuring that there are fair and transparent admissions practices in all universities.

"It is untrue for the minister to suggest that pupils from state schools are fully supported to successfully apply to university. The number of state school students entering the university system is at record levels, and the vast majority of universities are very grateful for this.

"The coalition government's cuts are reducing rapidly the range of opportunities available for young people when they leave school, and this is putting more pressure on the university system.

"The coalition government has cut back on promised additional investment for universities, which now means that fewer places are available than are needed.

"Teachers in state schools are passionately concerned about the outcomes achieved by their pupils. It is deeply insulting to suggest that teachers don't care.

"All young people should be entitled to access independent and impartial information, advice and guidance to help them plan their future careers. Regrettably, provision is being cut back at a time when young people need it most.

"The coalition government cannot rely on a voluntary system to provide the expert careers information and advice that is needed. There needs to be additional investment in high quality careers advice and information for all young people instead of further cuts to provision."

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