Study into why white working-class boys least likely to go to university

Report from King’s College London examines why so few white working class boys go on to higher education and how this can be addressed.

The report conducted by LKMco think-tank on behalf of the college brings together the insights of teachers, universities, academics and sector professionals.

Amongst other findings, the research comments that well know rich businessmen that did not attend university can act as a disincentive: ‘Young people’s belief in the value of attending university can be reduced by their awareness of successful high profile entrepreneurs who have not been to university or by friends who have left university and failed to secure jobs.’

Recommendations from the report include calling for parents to be part of the effort to increase white working class boys’ participation in HE, as well as how encouragement should begin at primary school.

Director of Widening Participation at King’s College London Anne-Marie Canning said: “This important report is essential in helping schools and universities improve the progression rates for white working class pupils to higher education. The report recommends that working with white working class pupils from an early age and engaging parents are key in ensuring all young people have the opportunity to participate in higher education.”

The report is called ‘The underrepresentation of white working class boys in higher education: the role of widening participation’.