UCU responds to university dropout rate figures

The figures revealed that:

• the percentage of young entrants to full-time first degrees from the lowest socio-economic groups (4-7) in 2007/08 was 29.5% - a drop from 29.8% the previous year
• the percentage of all young full-time first degree entrants (starting in 2006/07) not continuing in higher education after their first year was 7.4% - an increase from 7.1% the previous year.

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'Over the past decade, in England alone, nearly £3billion has been spent on measures to widen social class participation in higher education. Today's figures are a stark reminder that we need to be more imaginative if we are to make higher education a realistic and affordable option for all people that can benefit from it.

'The figures are quite timely as we look ahead to the review into top-up fees and higher education funding. Those advocating higher fees or even privatised universities need to think again. The bottom line is that the punitive cost of higher education is putting the very students who the government wishes to attract off applying. Of equal concern are the higher dropout rates at the institutions that are doing the most to try and attract students from poorer backgrounds. Their work needs to be given greater support, not criticised.

'At a time when 100 universities have indicated they will be making job cuts and the number of students wanting to study at university is increasing, it is quite clear that we will need more staff, not less, if we are to give all students a high quality education and the best chance of completing their studies.'

The full performance indicators can be found on the HESA website.