MillionPlus comment on UCAS January deadline data

MillionPlus, the Association for Modern Universities, has today (15 February) commented on the UCAS January deadline data.

Rachel Hewitt, Chief Executive of MillionPlus, said:

“With deeply entrenched existing shortages in these professions, it is concerning to see that application numbers for nursing and teaching are down significantly across the UK, driven in no small part by a decade-long trend in falling numbers of mature learners. The country is already short of these vital public service professionals; the fact that prospective students are turning their backs on these subjects should ring alarm bells.

“If the Government is serious about meeting the goals of the NHS Long Term Workforce plan, hitting teacher recruitment targets and in its commitment to lifelong learning, urgent action is required.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Dan Blows on 020 3927 2916 or email press@millionplus.ac.uk
2. MillionPlus is the Association for Modern Universities in the UK, and the voice of 21st century higher education. We champion, promote and raise awareness of the essential role and impact of modern universities in the UK’s world-leading higher education sector. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk
3. What are modern universities? Modern universities are long established centres of higher education in their communities with roots that stretch back decades, if not centuries. Many gained university title following legislation agreed by parliament in 1992. They make up almost half of the UK university sector with over a million students studying at modern universities every year.
4. Modern universities: facts and stats