Why did I get free state pension credit while in school, but none in my university years?

I’ve been looking at my national insurance contributions record and wondered why there is a three year gap, whilst studying for my under-graduate degree. During this time I was in full time education, and also had a part-time job. It seems odd that when I was in further education (sixth form) my national insurance contributions were paid, but not in higher education. Most people would assume that your national insurance record is automatically protected whilst in higher education, but this is not the case.

If the government is serious about levelling up, give university students a better start in life. Not only do they face high levels of debt, but a national insurance contribution penalty which could result in not receiving the full state pension when they retire.