Working-class students are not “potential dropouts” and therefore necessarily “risky investments” for universities, reports Times Higher Education (May 15). A study of working-class students found them to be hard-working and committed.

The study, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, followed students at three universities and a college of further education in England.

The students interviewed showed plenty of strength, resilience and commitment, according to Professor Gill Crozier, who jointly led the project, contradicting “the very strong perception that so-called non-traditional entrants ... are ‘high risk'”.

On the contrary, the study found that none of the students dropped out, and many excelled. But it also found that the students had different experiences of higher education, depending on the university that they attended. Students at an elite southern university had an intensive experience of studying, and were not allowed to take jobs during term time. Although these students were more confident learners, they found it more challenging to socialise.

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Students at a northern, post-1992 university were more likely to live at home, take on part-time work and socialise with existing friends and family. Online learning systems meant that they were likely to attend university less often.

The research, the Socio-Cultural and Learning Experiences of Working Class Students in Higher Education, revealed that variations in funding between the institutions had an impact on the students' experiences. Despite this, it also found that all the students involved felt that higher education was an enriching experience.

No royals - get Jo Brand

A right royal renewal is occurring on campuses. Royal visits to universities are no longer marred by hordes of protestors. In fact universities are increasingly prostrating themselves to the Queen and her crew, says Gerard Kelly, editor of Times Higher Education (May 15). The attention of the head of state is, after all, quite a PR coup. But he, for one, is against the trend.

“Meritocracy genuflecting to monarchy. For academics who have dedicated their lives to robust inquiry, isn't it galling to have to acknowledge that the only gadfly likely to disturb the calm during a royal visit is married to the Queen?”

He wants universities to keep it real. “Reach for Jo Brand when the first temptation might have been to call the Countess of Wessex.”

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