Margaret Hodge Unveils Definitive Study of Student Living :: Wessex Scene Online

Margaret Hodge Unveils Definitive Study of Student Living

21st January 2003

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Margaret Hodge MP, Minister for Lifelong Learning and Higher Education, today addressed the third Annual UNITE Student Living Forum attended by approximately 300 individuals including leading MPs, civil servants, opinion formers, University Chancellors and representatives from student unions.

Speaking on the eve of the publication of the Government's long awaited White Paper on the Higher Education Strategy Review, Margaret Hodge MP congratulated UNITE on the invaluable information the annual UNITE Student Living Report contains, stating that the report has become "a regular feature on our calendar, providing useful and reliable insight into student life which informs and drives Government policy".

The Minister highlighted several key findings including student's views on the value of higher education, student debt, and the Government's aim to widen participation:

Value of higher education

Nine out of ten students polled (96%) agree that going to university is a worthwhile experience, with three out of five students believing their current course offers good value for money

Student Debt

Although student debt is rising (on average students currently owe Ł4,602, an increase of Ł399 on last year, and expect to owe Ł8,816 by the time they finish), only 10% ever considered dropping out because of debt

Widening Participation

Only 17% of students are from working class backgrounds, (3% less than two years ago)
Over twice as many agree than disagree with the Government's policy of increasing the proportion of adults with access to higher education to 50% is right, but two out of five believe that resources will be stretched as a result - one in three believe it will lower standards

Commenting on the UNITE Student Living Report, Margaret Hodge MP said:

"Student views on their own experience are crucial for informing potential students, university staff and policy makers. As we move into a more student-led demand system for our universities their opinions will become more critical. UNITE's work is helping to inform the Government, the sector and the public about the real state of university and student life. I have consistently used last year's findings in speeches and articles and look forward to using the latest UNITE Student Living Report throughout the next year."

Nicholas Porter, Chief Executive of The UNITE Group plc, said:

"Higher education students represent an important community as the future of the UK. Our survey is one of the most comprehensive studies of their views, concerns and aspirations. It will help universities and businesses to understand their requirements and ensure that, as real consumers of the education system, their needs are met."