Gaps

I am writing this as I am watching a BBC programme on high achieving students from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, and the challenges they face on their educational journeys.  Specifically, the programme looked at students' pathway from GCSE and the decision making processes regarding higher education.  The striking thing about the three students, whose stories were portrayed on tonight's programme, was the lack of confidence that they felt in their ability to do well.  There is an overwhelming sense of responsibility of how going to university and going for their dreams may impact on their family.  Behind all of this is money.  Going to university requires money and even though the students can take out student loans to finance their studies, the enormity of the debt and the fact that they don't want to end up being a burden on their family if their dreams don't work out are barriers.  The conflict between what they want and what they think may be practical is excruciating to watch.  These are students about to embark on GCSEs, so 12/13 year olds, very young to have to shoulder the burden of what the future may cost.  In one case it was apparent that neither the student nor the parent actually knew what the costs of a university education would be, they just knew that it was a lot.  And it turned out to be a lot more than either of them thought when they researched it on the web.  The look on the face of that student spoke volumes.  Why are we putting so much pressure on young people for something that ultimately would benefit society?  Over and again we are told that a better educated population is good for society and yet we have placed roadblocks in the way of those trying to get an education.  Perhaps those who earn enough should give a bit more in tax to help young people on their way in life?