England has always had a proud tradition of excellence at its universities up and down the country; notably the distinguished 'Oxbridge' institution, i.e. Oxford and Cambridge. Many ex-scholars from a wide range of academic backgrounds have gone on to achieve excellence in the fields of medicine, politics, science, even sport and comedy. Some of the finest minds in the world have been nurtured and produced in this country.
For all the history and splendour of the English university system, there has always been a cross-section of society unable to take advantage of the world-class education on offer. …
