A National Learning Entitlement: Moving Beyond University Tuition Fees

Abstract

The paper sets out a proposal for a National Learning Entitlement as a means of supporting all post-secondary students. The proposal takes the debate beyond the current narrow focus on university education and student debt, to a broader and more inclusive system which would encourage learning at all ages by a diverse range of students, at a lower cost than the abolition of university fees. The proposal is for a national learning entitlement which would enable free access to publicly provided, or publicly recognised, education and training for the equivalent of two years for all those aged 18 and above. It would be valid for further and adult education colleges as well as higher education. The entitlement would be pitched at around £5K per year, but could be used flexibly for part-time study, and spread over a lifetime. By going beyond university students the NLE spreads public subsidy far more equitably and efficiently. It brings into play the other 50% of the youth cohort, as well as adults who have missed out first time round. It strongly encourages diversity of provision and so matches supply better to demand. It wins on fairness, efficiency and future orientation.