In the run up to what is widely expected to be the most hotly contested general election for many years, three experienced vice-chancellors from English universities outline what they want the political leaders to include in their manifestos.
Their ideas range across the full range of higher education and research policies – including access, teaching, civic engagement, research and innovation. They collectively argue action will be needed in all these areas if the higher education sector is to thrive and to make its full contribution to the country’s future success.
A commitment to increased funding for low income students. When higher level fees and loans were introduced in 2012 a bursary was also provided on lower incomes. For students living at home it means that they can study without drawing on stretched family resources to pay for day to day expenses and minimize their dependence on student maintenance loans. For those living away from home the bursary filled the gap often met by bank of mum and dad in more prosperous families.