Highest Funding Award Recognises The Work Done At Edge Hill University

The Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) announced today that it has made one of its highest funding awards to Edge Hill University. The award has been increased by 14.3% on last year’s total.

The award represents the largest percentage increase given to a University in the North West and the second largest award to a University in England.

The substantial award recognises the University’s work in creating new higher education opportunities in the region.

John Cater, Vice Chancellor at Edge Hill University said: ‘The new funding is further evidence of Edge Hill University’s ability to grow and to develop innovative programmes that meet the needs of the region’s learners and employers.’

The increase at Edge Hill University is part of a buoyant national picture. HEFCE will make available £7,476 million in funding for universities and colleges in England for 2008-09. This represents a 3.3 per cent increase in total grant over the current year (2007-08).

Professor David Eastwood, Chief Executive of HEFCE, said: 'This is a good settlement which reflects the Government's recognition of the crucial role played by higher education in securing the country's economic and social well-being and international competitiveness. The funding will provide substantial growth in student numbers and offer greater opportunities to students from a wider variety of backgrounds. These include people in the workplace and those living in parts of the country where there is an under-provision of higher education.’

John Denham, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills said: 'The Government is investing more in higher education than ever before with record numbers of students going to university. By 2011, funding for higher education will have increased by over 30 per cent in real terms since 1997. This increased investment will ensure that universities and colleges have the resources they need to continue widening participation and reaching out to new talent by working more closely with schools and employers.’