29th October 2013 9:00
By Blue Tutors
A study conducted by Universities UK has shown a rapid decline in the number of part-time students. The study warned that the rapidly falling student numbers are due to a multitude of factors, including rising fees, falling incomes and reduced support from employers for workers undertaking part-time courses. The numbers of part-time students has fallen in 40% over two years, which amounts to a reduction of 105,000 students. The study has alarmed university and industry leaders, especially because part-time courses are necessary for employees to improve their skills.
The report issued by Universities UK warned that something was seriously wrong, when adults were unable to supplement their skills by undertaking part-time courses. The majority of students undertaking part-time courses are adults studying vocational or work-related courses. Whilst the numbers are falling sharply, the UK requires more graduates than ever to meet the need for changing skills, a need which is increasingly being unmet due to the factors preventing people from undertaking part-time study to augment their skills. The report called for an urgent push to help students undertake part time study, including a drive to encourage employers to support workers who want to register for part-time courses.
The Confederation of British Industry responded to the study, expressing concern over the falling numbers of part-time students. They released a statement, which said that in order for the UK economy to remain competitive, there must be opportunities for working people to enhance their skills or re-train to respond to the needs of the changing market. A further concern highlighted by the study is the impact of the lack of opportunities for part-time study on women. The majority of part-time study is undertaken by women, in particular because it allows them to study whilst maintaining part-time work or raising children. The report concluded that the lack of opportunities for people to undertake part-time study could seriously affect the UK’s attempts to further economic growth.