Ministers demand universities do more to get people from military backgrounds to go into higher education

MINISTERS have told universities to help more people from military backgrounds.

Just 24 per cent of young people with parents in the services go on to higher education, compared with 43 per cent in the general population.

University Minister Chris Skidmore is urging universities to do more for people from military backgrounds

And veterans who want to apply are often hindered by having served rather than studied.

Now Universities Minister Chris Skidmore and Veterans Minister Tobias Ellwood have written to all universities demanding that they sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant.

Just 57 of 136 have so far committed to the pledge that the Armed Forces community will not be disadvantaged.

‘CONSIDER THE BENEFITS’

The two ministers are also calling for military experience and qualifications to count towards course entry requirements.

Mr Skidmore said: “We want everyone with the talent and potential to go on to university and thrive.”

“I’m sure all universities will wish to consider the benefits of being a civic university that supports armed forces families in their communities, which is why I have written urging them all to actively consider signing up to the Covenant.”

Minister for Defence People and Veterans Tobias Ellwood said: “Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is a fantastic way to show support for our former and current service men and women, as well as their families.

The Department for Education has also confirmed £5million in continued funding for military students.

The Service Leavers Scheme pays university tuition fees while the Armed Forces Bereavement Scheme provides scholarships for children with a parent who died in the line of duty.