Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 43
43
Accepted
Insufficient funding and support hinder educational outcomes for disadvantaged post-16 students.
Conclusion
On average, economically disadvantaged students aged 16–19 do not perform as well as their peers or achieve the same educational outcomes. Per-pupil funding drops sharply after the age of 16, creating a cliff edge that limits support for disadvantaged students. Existing bursaries for disadvantaged students aged 16–19 are insufficient and inconsistently distributed. There is compelling evidence for the introduction of a student premium to match secondary school funding levels. Without targeted investment, disadvantaged learners risk falling further behind academically and professionally. (Conclusion, Paragraph 169)
Government Response Summary
The government states it already funds financial support programmes for 16-19 year olds, including the Bursary Fund, and provides participation funding for learners with EHC plans and other adult support.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Department funds financial support programmes for 16–19-year-olds, including the Bursary Fund, and provides participation funding for learners up to 25 with EHC plans. For adults, Learner Support and Learning Support help overcome barriers to education.