HC Deb 01 February 1983 vol 36 cc59-60W
Mr. Beith

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what is the gross unit cost for (a) sixth form education and (b) further education for a full-time student.

Mr. William Shelton

Precise figures are not available, but estimates based upon total costs at the institutions concerned suggest that gross institutional unit costs in 1980–81 were as follows:

£
Pupils aged 16 and over in maintained secondary schools 1,235
Students (full-time equivalent) on non-advanced courses in major establishments 1,680

These estimates are not directly comparable; they reflect considerable differences in the size and nature of the institutions involved, the student groups and modes of attendance, provision of courses, facilities and equipment, and organisation and staffing.

Estimates for 1981–82 should be available shortly.