Aspirations for Higher Education amongst students in 16 - 19 education in three London Boroughs

Abstract

This study is of the higher education aspirations of a group of students in 16 - 19 education. Data was collected from students in three London boroughs, Bamford, Newton and Rishworth. These students were in the final year in either sixth forms or colleges of further education and taking courses that would enable a successful candidate to gain access to higher education. Both local authority and independent sector institutions were represented in the study. The research began by developing a conceptual framework within which an analysis could be made of the above mentioned students higher education aspirations. Two main types of research was used. Interviews were held with those involved in the provision of 16 – 19 education and with the counselling of students as to higher education entry. A questionnaire was distributed to the above mentioned group of students, requesting information as to various aspects of their background and their aspirations. Some 100 + interviews were carried out with borough councillors, L.E.A. administrators, careers officers, school teachers, and college lecturers. Some 1,500 questionnaires were distributed to students at 31 schools and three colleges of further education. There were 952 replies. The information received was computerised and processed using a prime computer and application package S.P.S.S. An analysis was made in terms of higher education aspirations and L.E.A. area, type of institution, type of course, mode of attendance, socio-economic grouping, family circumstances, type of housing and gender. The findings of this analysis were compared with the original hypothesis and conclusions drawn.