UCU responds to Oxbridge academies snub

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'UCU is a leading proponent of widening participation in our universities and we welcome positive steps to attract a broader mix of students. However, opening up access to universities is about securing a level playing field so the most able students, not just the privileged, have an equal and fair chance of studying at their institution of choice.

'UCU members are not convinced that an academy programme which creates pockets of privilege is the best way to improve the life chances of all our children or to ensure that opportunities in higher education are available to all based on ability.'