HAVING aspirations is something that should not cost money in the 21st century.

Many teachers say the increase in cost for higher education is simply “a tax on aspiration”.

Education is a human right and should be free for all.

The National Union of Teachers fear changes to student finance will not just put East Lancashire young people off going to university, but learning at school as well.

As a society we should be doing everything we can to make sure our young people gain the the skills they need to be successful.

University is not for everyone, yet the decision on whether to go should come down to desire and results, not cost.

A new study estimates the average debt of students leaving higher-education will rise between £3,800 and £12,500 as a result of changes in the Budget.

The respected Institute for Fiscal Studies analysis says that students from the poorest backgrounds will graduate owing up to £53,000 instead of £40,500 after maintenance grants are replaced by loans, although they will have £550 more ‘cash in pocket’ per year.

Education bosses need to find an answer before they make university the unrealistic dream of the majority.