Degree dilemma

WHILE most school buildings were transformed under Labour, levels of academic attainment continue to leave much to be desired. It's why this new Government intends to introduce two Education Bills and, specifically, give extra help to children from poorer backgrounds through the so-called "pupil premium".

Ministers want every child to have an equal chance to succeed, and they realise that an early grasp of the three Rs is essential if pupils are to fulfil their potential. It is refreshing that the new administration recognises this.

Yet this cannot be treated in isolation. There needs to be a

fundamental review of every aspect of schooling; how to best equip youngsters with the skills to succeed in a global economy and how higher education can be funded when universities, already over-subscribed, face a record number of applicants at a time of unprecedented budget cuts.

If the Government's reforms succeed, there will be even more students wanting the opportunity to study at university level. However, one of the first pronouncements of George Osborne, the new Chancellor, was to halve the number of extra places that Labour intended to provide this autumn.

The consequence is even more students face being left in limbo, despite being told by a succession of Ministers that a degree is essential if they are going to make the most of their ability. Unless universities are able to raise more money from the private sector, it appears that students will face the prospect of higher tuition fees very soon – a prospect that will penalise those youngsters whose families cannot afford to support their studies.