A VICE-chancellor has re-affirmed a university's plan to encourage the enrolment of students from all backgrounds.

Professor Graham Henderson, the University of Teesside's Vice-Chancellor, told a graduation ceremony in Middlesbrough Town Hall: "The University is working very hard to determine how we might utilise a generous scheme of bursaries, scholarships and other forms of support, so that we can respond to the Government's reforms in a manner that will still enable students from all backgrounds to take advantage of the opportunities offered to them by higher education."

He also spoke of the importance of next year, when the university celebrates the 75th anniversary of the founding of Constantine College, the predecessor of Teesside Polytechnic and the University of Teesside.

"This academic year is a particularly significant one in the history of the University - as it marks the 75th anniversary of the birth of higher education here in Middlesbrough - when the then Prince of Wales opened Constantine College in a building which still exists as part of the university campus," he said.

"Seventy-five years on, I am sure that Joseph Constantine, the founder of the college, would no longer recognise the institution that exists as his legacy today - an institution that now provides educational opportunities to over 20,000 students per year.''

He said that the base made an important ongoing contribution to what is increasingly becoming a university town.

He is presenting more than 2,000 degrees, diplomas and certificates at ceremonies this week in Middlesbrough.