A charity has released data which suggests how much bright children from poor families are affected, depending on where they live
The Sutton Trust’s latest report is about mapping social mobility in England.
They concluded that intelligent kids from poor families fared ten times worse in some schools.
The charity highlighted big inequalities while following the progress of children who were entitled to free school meals.
The index also suggested that teenagers from disadvantaged homes were five times less likely to go to a top university or get a professional job.
The report said there was geographical inequalities existing at every stage of education.
For example the index claimed 72% of disadvantaged children in Lewisham Deptford achieved good development. But only 19% in Kenilworth and Southam did.
Dr Lee Elliot Major, Chief Executive of the Sutton Trust said: “Today’s new social mobility index tells us that your chances of getting good GCSEs, attending a good university and accessing a professional job aren’t just a matter of ability, but are linked to where you live. We know talented children are born in every area of the country, yet these findings reveal stark differences in their educational and life prospects.
“The fact that schools in some parts of the country do much better for their disadvantaged students than those in other parts of the country shows how important it is that the next Government redoubles the national drive to improve social mobility and reduce educational inequalities.
“Whoever is in Government after May has a major task ahead if they want to ensure young people can succeed regardless of their background and where they grow up. They need to make sure that all pupils have access to great teaching as well as the chance to go to the best schools and universities.”
