University tuition fee rises could reduce numbers seeking teaching jobs

University applications could be significantly reduced if university fees are raised, with a potential knock-on effect for the numbers of people seeking jobs in teaching.

A survey released by the Sutton Trust indicates that while currently eight out of ten school leavers wish to go to university, that figure would be reduced to 45 per cent if the cap on fees were to be lifted to £7,000.

Should the limit be raised to £10,000, only 26 per cent of school leavers would consider applying to university, the Ipsos Mori poll of 2,700 11 to 16-year-olds revealed.

An independent review of university funding is currently underway and is being chaired by Lord Browne.

He is due to publish the findings in the autumn of this year, with current restrictions on government spending leading to suggestions that fees for higher education study will have to be increased, which could lead to a reduction in the number of newly qualified teachers competing for jobs.

The Sutton Trust was set up in 1997 with the aim of opposing educational inequality and provides funding for projects for those from deprived areas.

Posted by Charlotte Michaels

Published On 21/06/2010