What do we do now?

For this section, our contributors turn to the question of what actions we need to take now to make sure that the sector rises to the challenge presented by the Journey to a Million. For those writing in this section, how to secure the aspirations of students from disadvantaged backgrounds in this more competitive landscape is a key question. Similarly, careers information, advice and guidance whose quality is consistent across different educational settings, but which considers the specific contexts of the students moving through the system, is seen as fundamental in securing a successful future for the Million cohort.

Our experts also give us a glimpse of the bright future which the decade could bring. With careful planning and collaboration across the sector, we could see the expansion of medical places address the gaps in our NHS workforce, a thriving HE system which attracts international talent from across the globe, and a diverse set of pathways which allows every young person to find their future.