Responding to the publication of Office for Fair Access’ (OFFA) new strategic plan, Sir Peter Lampl, Chairman of the Sutton Trust and of the Education Endowment Foundation, said today:

 “OFFA is absolutely right to prioritise the increase in the rate at which less advantaged students are entering higher education. Whilst entry rates for undergraduates from low-income homes are improving, a persistent access gap of over seven times remains at the most selective universities. Professor Ebdon’s emphasis on widening participation at these universities is particularly welcome and underlines just how important it is that OFFA remains as an independent body challenging universities to do better.

 “There is still a mountain to climb if we really want to make sure our most selective universities are accessible to all bright students, regardless of background, but today’s plans are a positive step in the right direction.”