While there have been "significant improvements" in the numbers of women, ethnic minority and mature students represented in university intakes, the figures for young people from "lower socio-economic groups" remain stubbornly low.

A report on widening university access, From Elitism to Inclusion - commissioned by the Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Principals - says that 86% of children from deprived backgrounds do not enter higher education.

Universities "need to change" to accept a more socially-balanced intake

This compares to the total figure of a third of young people who enter university.

"It is a sad fact that many of the UK's least privileged, least economically well-placed youngsters do not take up educational opportunities in universities," says the committee's Chief Executive, Diana Warwick.

The report says that "the roots of this problem lie in the persistence of poverty and deprivation in society which is well beyond the scope of the education system", but that there are practical ways in which universities can begin to widen access.

Outreach schemes

Among the measures recommended are for universities to set up partnerships with local education authorities, creating a pathway into higher education for children without expectations of learning beyond school.

As an example, the report cites the University of Glasgow, which runs a summer school with the local authority with the aim of helping disadvantaged pupils get into higher education.

Another outreach scheme commended is at Nottingham Trent, where the university "establishes a continuous higher education presence in local schools to raise aspirations".

Admissions policies should also reflect the importance of attracting a wider intake, with access schemes designed to make universities seem a more feasible option.

At Liverpool John Moores University, an access scheme for sixth formers in depressed areas of Merseyside guarantees places on specific courses if students reach an agreed level of achievement.

Universities will have to change to accept the importance of a more representative intake, says the report, with the need to overcome prejudices that opening access is a route to lowering standards.

The report also notes that student hardship will have a negative impact on efforts to attract young people from poorer backgrounds. It emphasises that "the less students have, the more they must be affected".