Million Plus

MillionPlus, the Association for Modern Universities, has today (14 December) commented on the final wave of data from the UCAS End of Cycle Report for 2017, which details patterns of entry to higher education by background, offer-making, qualifications and competition.

Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of MIllionPlus, said:

“On all measures, these UCAS statistics confirm that modern universities are delivering on the social mobility agendas of all governments in the UK. These universities consistently provide new opportunities for talented and ambitious people of all ages and backgrounds, offering pathways into different careers and contributing to social cohesion.

“Educational attainment and the pre-entry qualifications needed to progress to university are not just determined by what happens in schools and colleges where teachers and lecturers do a fantastic job in encouraging students to succeed. The links between social disadvantage, lower household income, poor housing and lower educational achievement are well-known. Unless these wider issues are tackled, the increase in the proportion of people from disadvantaged backgrounds progressing to higher education is likely to be glacial. This is yet another reason for Ministers to recognise the significance of the contribution of modern universities to social mobility throughout the UK.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. MillionPlus is the Association for Modern Universities. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk
2. Modern universities: key facts 2017
3. More information on the UCAS End of Cycle Report 2017 is available here
4. For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Dan Blows on 020 7717 1658 or email press@millionplus.ac.uk