The Age Participation Index for Scotland has increased, showing that more young people are choosing to study in further and higher education.

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Margaret Smith said:

“The increase in students from deprived areas starting courses is certainly movement in the right direction.

“As the recession bites, more and more young people will want to pursue further education instead of taking their chances in the volatile job market.

“We must make sure that the financial support is there for them.

“That is why Liberal Democrats campaigned for- and won- extra college places for Scottish students in last year’s budget.”