This first paper, launching the inquiry, sets out the key issues for access and widening participation  in 2025, exploring some of the progress made over the last twenty-five years, but also identifying some persistent gaps and issues that remain unresolved.

The second paper is an investigation into the nature of higher education ‘cold spots’. Based on qualitative research undertaken in Doncaster, findings show that the cost of higher education is seen as having a poor payoff in areas with few graduate jobs, and universities, colleges and schools are not doing enough to persuade young people from cold spots to invest now for higher earnings later.

The third paper is an investigation into the nature of the student experience in 2025. Based on qualitative research in Nottingham, findings show that the cost of learning crisis underpins how all students see their student experience, whether they are a residential or commuter student alike. Yet students see the ‘point’ of university  as getting the skills and qualifications they need to get on the job ladder.

The fourth and final paper of the inquiry includes six recommendations for the Government and higher education sector to build a new mission for widening participation which encompasses students successfully ‘getting in’, ‘getting on’ and ‘getting out’ of university.