Analysis of data on school leavers in Scotland points towards considerable inequality in access to higher education. This is highlighted in terms of participation in higher education by young people from lower-income households or identifying as first in their families to consider going to university. The situation is more acute in terms of access…

In the 1840s, massed singing classes led by charismatic pioneer music educators such as Joseph Mainzer (1801-1851) sprang up across the United Kingdom. Mainzer was a much respected composer, music journalist, and music educator. Born in Trèves (Prussia), he traveled across Europe and settled in Paris, where he was part of the revolutionary…

A project to improve access to higher education for working-class Scottish adults illustrates the need to address individual ability and attitude as well as institutional and situational barriers to participation. A balance of the structural and the individual is needed to challenge inequality and promote social inclusion. (SK)