State school pupils get more firsts than those who were privately educated

Former state school students get better degrees than those who had a private education, according to new figures. 

Even with the same A-levels, those who didn’t pay for their school are more likely to leave with a first or a 2:1.

The Higher Education Funding Council (HEFCE) found a staggering 82 per cent of graduates who went to state school left with a first or a 2:1, compared to 73 per cent of privately educated pupils.

Education experts say that while private schools are great at getting the best out of their students during A-levels, state school pupils have room to grow when they get to uni.

They believe those who are not silver-spoon fed will learn for themselves.

And not relying on family connections to get a good job could suggest state school pupils work harder.

The HEFCE report says: “There is only a small difference between the two groups at the highest entry grades, but the difference widens considerably for those entering with A-level grades AAC and below.”

In addition, 94 per cent of state school pupils arriving at university with four A-level grade As gained a first or upper second, compared with 93 per cent of privately educated students.

Ex-private school students do worse because they don’t have room to grow

Professor Alan Smithers, director of the Centre for Education and Employment Research, told the Daily Mail: “When they get to university, the independent school pupils have got there, really operating at the maximum of their potential whereas state school pupils are capable of more development.

“Some universities give out firsts and 2:1s a lot more cheaply than others.

“Independent school pupils will be going to universities which are a bit tougher on that.”

Elsewhere the report revealed girls do better than boys, as 74 per cent scored a first or 2:1 compared to just 70 per cent of guys.

White pupils are also more likely to achieve firsts compared to those from ethnic minorities.

76 per cent of white students got a top degree in 2013 compared to 60 per cent of black and ethnic minority grads.