New scheme to encourage disadvantaged pupils to reach university

A new scheme has begun which will see high-achieving young people from disadvantaged areas receive letters from students at Kings College London, encouraging them to consider a university education.

The personalised letters contain real-life success stories written by current university students with similar upbringings, showing how it is possible to break the link between background and success. 

Almost 10,000 pupils at schools and colleges with the lowest progression rates to higher education have been identified through Department for Education data and will be targeted by the initiative. 

The letters, all written by students at King’s College London, will share personal stories and challenge the perception that university is only for the privileged.   

They highlight how higher education, or an apprenticeship, can open the door to life-changing opportunities. 

On average, disadvantaged pupils are more than a third less likely to go to university compared to their peers, according to the latest data. 

The postcode gap is even greater, with teenagers in Redbridge in London being almost three times more likely to progress to higher education than those growing up in Knowsley, Merseyside. 

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: "Universities need to do more to make sure they’re reaching the most talented people in our country wherever they come from – youngsters who need a bit of encouragement to see that a degree isn’t only for a privileged few. I’m proud that we’ve been able to support this brilliant initiative."