A STUDENT who attended the protest against the rise in tuition fees says it was “inspirational”, despite its descent into violence.

Tens of thousands of students turned out at Westminster on November 10 to campaign against government proposals to triple tuition fees from 2012.

However, innocent chants soon turned to violence when a group of protesters smashed their way into the headquarters of the Conservative party.

Stuart Dingwall, 19, of Chastilian Road, Dartford attended the demonstration and says he hopes the purpose of the demonstration has not been over shadowed.

The technical theatre student at North West Kent College said: “I thought it was inspirational seeing young people going to stick up for what they believe in.

“But when people kicked off, it ruined it because now the focus has shifted onto that instead of the fact 50,000 students turned out for it.”

Business studies teacher Michael Sani at Wilmington Enterprise College accompanied the Bite the Ballot students and says the demonstration was exciting.

He said: “The most amazing thing was seeing people campaigning for future generations.

“Some people benefit from free education and some don’t, and this needs to be looked at.”

Mr Dingwall told News Shopper he is worried about what the rise in tuition fees could mean for him.

He said: “It will make a massive split between the rich and the poor and a lot of people will miss out.

“I’m hoping to go to university, but if the fees go up, I’m not sure how I’ll be able to afford it.”

Lib Dem activist James Willis also attended the protest and says he opposes the government’s plans on higher education reform.

He said: "I commit to working tirelessly for the young people of Dartford and North Kent to ensure that the best education possible is provided to our youth.”

How will the rise in tuition fees affect pupils hoping to go to university?

Head Teacher of Wilmington Grammar School for Girls, Maggie Bolton said: “I think this is inevitably going to have a negative impact.

“Places at universities this September are going to be at a premium as students understandably wish to avoid the fee rise.

“I would be disappointed if our girls, who go to top universities, are discouraged from applying because of the increased financial burden.”

Head of Hextable school Peter Dalton told News Shopper he is worried by the rise in fees. He said: "We've had a rise of 40 percent of students going to university but I'm concerned the increase in fees will actively discourage pupils from now applying."