• There is a correlation between a family member attending HE and pupils ’ positive perception of HE ;
• Perceptions of HE can be attributed to previous experience at feeder school
• Some parents do not perceive that qualifications through HE adds value for the life that they see for their children .
• Fear of leaving home is a barrier to entering HE for some geographical areas ;
• Pupils perceived additional positive outcomes of attending HE
Key Recommendations
• SUN should hold a conference workshop with all those involved in education feeder schools , colleges and universities and business on the subject of : “ How does HE contribute to the life of a student and their future career ?” This would then enable all current practice to be identified .
• Design a communication strategy about HE ( which includes some of the components identified in the report ,) by conducting a research workshop involving members of HE ( colleges and universities ), parents , students ( all together ) using AI .
• Organise for the local colleges and universities to conduct events both at their colleges and universities and in the feeder schools , which give a glimpse of college and university life and the mechanisms in place to support students .
• Identify ways that business can be involved in the HE experiences for young people .
• Further research to be conducted , using AI , with parents and students in another catchment area to compare , consolidate and confirm findings of the research .