University shake-up ‘will unlock all talents’

BRITAIN will build a higher education system that “unlocks everyone’s talent”, it was revealed yesterday.

Announcing a wide-ranging review of learning for the over-18s, Theresa May called for more “flexible and diverse” universities that provide opportunities for students from every background and every aspiration.

“The vision I have for the Britain we will build is of a country which is fit for the future, delivered through bold social and economic reform,” she told education chiefs at Derby College.

“That is why we are building an education system which unlocks everyone’s talents and gives them the skills they need to go as far as their hard work will take them.”

She spoke of her desire for “a country where your background does not define your future, and class distinctions are a thing of the past”. Mrs May announced that finance expert and author Philip Augar will head a review into overhauling student fees.

And she admitted that the current system of annual fees of up £9,250 had failed to create a “competitive market” in higher education.

Mrs May insisted that it is right that students contribute to the cost of their education, but that the review – which is expected to take about a year – will look at how much they contribute, the terms of their contribution and the duration of the loan.

“I believe – as do most people, including students – that those who benefit directly from higher education should contribute directly towards the cost of it,” the Prime Minister said. “That is only fair.” She said that shifting the burden of tuition charges on to households would mean tax increases for the majority who did not go to university.

It would also lead to universities competing with schools and hospitals for funding, as well as to the re-introduction of a cap on student numbers.

The review comes amid widespread concern about the debt burden on students and the high interest rates – currently 6.1 per cent – on loans, as well as whether students are receiving value for money.

Shadow education secretary Angela Rayner said: “This long-winded review is an unnecessary waste of time. Labour will abolish tuition fees, bring back maintenance grants and provide free, lifelong education in further education colleges.”