More university places?

It’s only been a few weeks since UCAS warned us of the 23% rise in university applications and the 6000 decrease in university places; but following the announcement of the of 2010 budget, things seem to be looking up for any prospective students.

Though the way in which funds will be distributed is unclear, the Chancellor granted £270 million to help create 20,000 university places, 10,000 of which being for undergraduate courses. But when we consider the £180million of “efficiency savings”, outlined in the pre-budget report, it is likely that cuts will be made in other areas – resulting in “job losses” and possibly “larger class sizes.”

Nonetheless, low employment opportunities have put an emphasis on developing a skilled workforce, ready for our recovering economy; and for those not considering higher education the government has extended the Young Person’s Guarantee for 18-24 year olds, which promises a job or training for those who have been out of work for six months.

Good stuff!