Over 300 students and AUT members marched through Sheffield as part of the NUS national day of action, on Wednesday afternoon. Widespread support for the march was encountered by the public, with the civil service workers being particularly supportive. 200 people managed to storm the town hall and stage a rally inside the council chambers, to the disbelief of the police who had not expected such a large and militant demonstration. The students occupied the building for 1 hour before continuing the march to Hallam University Campus.

The size and militancy of the demonstration reflected the sheer anger of students and workers alike, with Blair’s plans for elitist education. Significantly, a large number of students who had previously not participated before joined in this demonstration, showing how much this issue has become a radicalising force.