Oh yes, Oxford has more class
It's official: Oxford is more upper class than that Fenland Polytechnic of East Anglia. Oxford had the highest proportion of students whose parents' occupations put them in social classes I and II - professional, managerial and technical. Cambridge lagged behind. They had 1% fewer class I and II students. Thames Valley and Central Lancashire Universities languish at the bottom of the toffs table.
Jane Minto, Secretary of Undergraduate Admissions said, "the University is aware of the social background of its students. We're becoming more pro-active in widening access and broadening participation of students of all backgrounds".
Responding to criticisms of the University's record on access, she said, "widening access is a long-term commitment. It is an ongoing programme spear-headed by the Vice-Chancellor's Working Party".
Minto cited the increase in admissions from state-maintained schools as evidence of the University's progress. She also admitted that changes could not happen overnight.
In an entirely unrelated incident Keble JCR voted last week to make Mr Hussain who runs a legendary Kebab van on St Giles, an honorary member of the JCR. This was in recognition of their belief that the quality of the food served by Hussain is in a league of its own. The intention is that with this award Keble students will get extra portions at Hussain's Kebab van.
JCR president, Ewan Morgan said, "Keble has been linked to Hussein's van for years, he has provided Keble students with quality food."
18th Nov 1999