Bridget Phillipson emphasizes the need to enhance support for children outside of school premises following an investigation that revealed the educational system is not effectively catering to white working-class children and families.
The Education Secretary highlighted the significant challenge Britain faces in improving outcomes for disadvantaged white children. Efforts are already underway to address issues such as attendance, expand early childhood education, and introduce Sure Start-style support centers called Best Start Family Hubs.
Acknowledging the necessity for further changes, Phillipson emphasized the importance of societal action beyond schools to support families, recognizing the crucial role family support plays in a child’s achievements.
The Independent Inquiry into White Working-Class Educational Outcomes released a report indicating the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address the underperformance of this demographic. The inquiry found a significant achievement gap, with only 36% of white British pupils on free school meals achieving satisfactory grades compared to their more affluent peers.
Recommendations from the inquiry include enhanced mental health support, limits on smartphone use in schools, and extending free childcare hours to disadvantaged families. The report also calls for a focus on reading fluency in primary schools, free public transport for young people, and increased apprenticeship opportunities in white working-class communities.
Headteacher Amy Sparkes expressed concerns about the education system’s emphasis on academic outcomes, highlighting a disconnect between the system and the needs of working-class families and pupils. She questioned the requirement for a math and English GCSE pass as a basic job entry criteria, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and engaging educational approach.
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