Unhappy students fuel top-up fees debate
By politics.co.uk staff
Student worries about assessment, organisation and academic support show English universities need to improve their performance, higher education minister David Willetts has conceded.
The national student survey, released one day before this year’s A-level results send the next year to university, show between a third and a quarter of students were not satisfied in some areas.
Assessment and feedback scored 67%. Organisation and management stood on 73% while academic support had a 75% satisfaction rating.
The National Union of Students jumped on the figures to claim university vice-chancellors had failed to improve standards, despite trebling top-up fees since 2006.
“Whilst it is pleasing to see most students remained satisfied overall with their university experience, a significant proportion of students indicated they were not satisfied… it is clear there is much room for improvement,” NUS president Aaron Porter said.
His comments come against the backdrop of an intensifying debate about student finance, as Lord Browne’s review of higher education continues its work.
Mr Willetts and business secretary Vince Cable now appear favouring a graduate tax which could double the cost of going to university, the NUS fears.
The NUS said the results of the national student survey meant university chiefs could not justify lobbying attempts to double fees.
Mr Willetts said the survey told a “broadly positive story” but acknowledged “it also reflects real and persistent concerns over the feedback given on students’ work”.
He added: “Even in tough times, our universities should be incentivised to improve the student experience and deliver a world-class education.
“I am committed to improving the range and accessibility of the information available, and will be exploring ways of achieving this in the coming months.”
