Our response to the post-16 education and skills white paper

Last week saw the much-anticipated release of the government’s white paper on post-16 education and skills.

Tackling educational disadvantage is at the heart of our mission, and we welcome the introduction of new routes to higher education and social mobility as a crucial step forward for the young people on our programmes.

Anna Searle, CEO of The Access Project, said:

“We know from our past research that educational attainment is only one factor for our students when making decisions about their future. An identified skills gap, together with critical financial challenges, can significantly affect the ability of a young person from an under-resourced background to continue on their pathway to a top university, and ultimately achieve social mobility.

We understand that maintenance loans will continue to go up with inflation every academic year, alongside the introduction of maintenance grants for priority subjects for those who need it most, and we hope that this news will have a positive impact on thousands of young people.

The government’s target is that two-thirds of young people aged 16-24 will take part in quality higher-level learning. This focus is welcomed, as it offers the potential to support larger numbers of young people to develop to the best of their abilities, irrespective of their socio-economic background.

In addition, we have heard from many of our students how the complexities of the current system of post-16 options have made it difficult to navigate. We are hopeful that the proposed clear, flexible pathways into higher education, work or training will make it easier for those who do not have access to people in professional careers for guidance; again, a disadvantage often faced by those from under-resourced backgrounds.

We remain optimistic about these reforms, and we look forward to seeing whether these changes will make the difference required to level the playing field and promote equal opportunities for all.”

The Access Project helps young people from under-resourced backgrounds achieve their academic potential and place at top universities. By donating to our programme or volunteering with us, you’re helping the country’s most under-resourced young people find their way to a brighter future.