Advocacy body for UK universities with history tracing back to the CVCP
Northern Ireland has released A-level, AS-level and BTEC results. Authorities expect similar top grades to last year. New modular A-levels are set for 2029 under TransformED; UCAS data show a slight drop in university applications in recent years. Clearing and Higher Level Apprenticeships remain options for students.
Universities UK-led polling shows VCs warn of staff redundancies and reduced outreach as funding pressures bite. Higher education leaders say government funding must better reflect the sector’s value, while student support could be at risk as hardship grants are reconsidered.
Recent British Social Attitudes data show a rise in people who question the worth of university study, with 34% saying it is not worth the time and money in 2025, up from 14% in 2005. The share believing graduates will be better off has fallen to 36%. The survey highlights concerns over fees, debt, and the labour market, while still noting that degree holders are more likely to be employed and earn more on average.
The CST reports 1,926 antisemitic hate incidents in January–June 2026 in the UK, up 21% from the previous year. Attacks include stabbings in Golders Green and arson at synagogues; government pledges £250m to bolster Jewish community security. The rise follows global trends and the start of the Israel–Iran conflict’s international spillover.