Vic, for once I agree with everything you say.
can I raise one more point,the importance of degree courses,is slightly less than it was 5 years ago,there is now so much good tuition available on the net,that the opportunity is there for enthusiastic musicians to reach a very high standard more easily than it was in the 1970s,it is not necessary to go on a degree course to become a skilled musician and skilled communicator/performer.
the degree course at NEWCASTLE is however a wonderful opportunity,for all aspiring musicians,who are lucky enough to get a place and long may it continue.