It raises the case for more flexible forms of higher education - such as higher-level apprenticeships linked to part-time degrees or undergraduate courses running through the summer so they can be completed in two rather than three years.
And more enlightened employers are investing in higher-level apprenticeships, providing a complete progression route to the highest levels of achievement.
More than one in 10 employers said they were repackaging some graduate roles as higher-level apprenticeships because of the levy.
Rolls-Royce apprentices are also the envy of the company's graduate entrants who can see, through the expansion of higher-level apprenticeships, that their workmates are being funded by the company to complete their degree-level qualification.
Apprenticeships are another route, including higher-level apprenticeships.
The figures for 2009/10 to 2010/11 show a welcome increase in apprenticeships for young people and in higher level apprenticeships.
Ucas should become a clearing house for apprenticeships, starting with higher level apprenticeships, as well as for higher education places.
Accountancy, financial services, law and IT are among the other higher level apprenticeships.
Thirdly, and perhaps most significantly, higher level apprenticeships should become a priority.
