Highlights of the week ending 28 January
The week ended with Michelle Donelan’s Written Ministerial Statement announcing that the repayment thresholds and interest rate thresholds will remain at current levels for the financial year 2022-23. Of interest was the suggestion that the government will “shortly” set out further plans addressing the student finance recommendations made in the Augar Review. This is a change in tone from “in due course” and so we might yet see the response to Augar.
UCAS’ End of Cycle release for 2021 showed a growth in acceptances on the previous year, as well as an increase in those getting their first choice institution. Demand for UK HE remained strong in 2021 and there was rise in interest in apprenticeship opportunities. Figures also showed the almost elimination of unconditional offers. HESA also published data this week – showing enrolments for the year 20/21.
The Office for National Statistics has released its analysis of education, social mobility and outcomes for students receiving free school meals (FSM) in England. The data shows that young people from disadvantaged backgrounds are only half as likely to end up earning the Living Wage at 25 as their better off peers.