County’s young people aim for university

School pupils and students in Herefordshire are being encouraged to set their sights higher at a national Aimhigher roadshow visiting the county this month.

The Aimhigher campaign is funded by the government as part of a drive to increase the percentage of 18-30 year olds who attend university or undertake some form of higher education.

Over half of young people progress to higher education in some parts of Herefordshire but this drops to less than one in four in other parts of the county. The reasons vary, but include young people's assumptions about not being clever enough and financial restrictions.

Aimhigher aims to redress this situation by providing accurate and relevant information that enables learners to make informed choices about their educational progression and help them achieve their aspirations and goals.

The 27 foot state-of-the-art trailer will visit Aylestone High School on 22nd November, the Minster College Leominster on 23rd November and Wyebridge Sports College on 26th November.

Run by graduates and using a wide range of media, pupils and students will be encouraged to think about the benefits and opportunities of higher education, especially young people from families with no tradition of studying at this level.

Evidence suggests that graduates can expect to earn more in a lifetime than those leaving school with A-levels alone. Having a degree or higher education qualification widens the choice of careers young people can access and makes it easier to get promotion when they eventually become employed.

The Aimhigher roadshows use case studies and DVDs to show the range of options available to young people. There are 50,000 courses to choose from including vocational degrees, and the roadshow includes information about vocational and other non-A level routes into higher education.

Those attending will also be able to get to grips with financial arrangements, particularly the help available for young people from lower income households.

Councillor Jenny Hyde, cabinet member for children and young people, said: "Higher education is no longer only about subjects such as medicine, dentistry, chartered engineering and other traditional academic subjects. Many young people don't realise that progression to higher education is a realistic option for them and that help is available if they are struggling financially.

"We want all our young people to reach their full potential so that they can make career choices and enjoy fulfilled lives. These roadshows will help them realise that university could be a very real option for them all."