Burnham moves quickly but Universities still waiting for a plan

One week into his leadership, Andy Burnham has announced measures including the return of the £2 bus fare cap, plans to expand free bus travel for teenagers and renewed commitments on housebuilding and getting more young people into work. Owen Dixon, Founder of Best Student Halls, shares his thoughts.

Commenting on Andy Burnham’s first week as Prime Minister, Owen Dixon, Founder of Best Student Halls, says:

“Andy Burnham has spent his first week showing that he wants to move quickly. Measures such as restoring the £2 bus fare cap and making it easier for more young people to reach education, training and work are welcome, but they are only part of the picture.

“Burnham also used his first speech to place young people and education at the centre of his vision for the country. His appointment of Lucy Powell as Education Secretary suggests he intends to follow through on that commitment. Powell understands the role universities play in their local communities and the pressures facing the sector, which raises expectations about what comes next. Burnham has also previously called for a complete rethink of the education system, yet he has revealed little policy detail. That feels like a missed opportunity.

“Higher education remains one of Britain’s greatest strengths. Universities develop highly skilled graduates, attract investment, support research and innovation, and play a major role in the economies of the towns and cities they call home.

“At the same time, the sector faces significant challenges. Universities are under financial pressure, confidence in the student loan system has been shaken, and many students are questioning whether the investment of time and money will deliver the opportunities previous generations expected.

“There is also a growing disconnect between education and employment. Universities including the Russel Group are starting to back the need for greater recognition of apprenticeships, technical education and other pathways into work, but universities remain a vital part of that system. Burnham’s goal should not be to favour one route over another. It should be to build an education system in which every pathway equips young people with the skills, experience and confidence to succeed.

“For universities, that means looking beyond recruitment and focusing on student success. Stronger links with employers, better careers support, more practical experience and greater clarity around student finance all have a role to play.

“Burnham has made an eager start during his first week in Government. He now needs to set out where education, including universities, fit within his 10-year plan. They should not be viewed simply as places where people earn degrees, but as institutions that help develop the skilled workforce, innovation and economic growth the country will rely on over the next decade.”