Inequality in education remains ‘deeply entrenched’ in the UK, an annual report is warning.
The State of the Nation Report Card, published by the Fair Education Alliance (FEA), found that while there has been improvement on GCSE attainment in the North East of England, progress had been static on a number of other indicators.
The report makes a number of recommendations to close the gap between the poorest and more affluent students including more early years investment, a mortgage deposit scheme for teachers in certain areas and careers advice in the most disadvantaged schools.
Sir Richard Lambert, chair of the FEA, said: ‘Inequality in education is deeply entrenched in our country and our Report Card is a stark reminder of the scale of the challenge. But I am confident that we can and will close the education gap.
‘The FEA is an inspiring coalition of companies, charities and third sector organisations. Drawing on the talents, influence and passion of our members, I believe we can play an integral role in helping to deliver a high quality education for every child in Britain.’