Is There An Educational Geographical Divide?

Pupils’ exam results are higher in London and lowest in Yorkshire and Humber.

21:24 13 January 2016

A major new study has revealed that children are blighted with “postcode inequality” as exam results are higher in London and lowest in Yorkshire and Humber.

 

The Social Mobility Foundation think-tank analysed the academic performance of children over three generations – those born in 1958, 1970, and 2000.

 

The study has revealed that where the pupils live was the biggest factor in education success for 11-year-olds born in 2000 compared to 1970. 

 

Commission chairman, former Lib-Dem leader Nick Clegg, said: “One challenge that has become clear is how to get high-quality teachers into struggling schools in remote or coastal areas.”

“It is clear that Britain is a starkly unequal country.

 

"It is an indictment of our society that a child born today stands less chance of realising their potential if they are born in a different part of our country to another child.”

 

Emran Mian, the think-tank’s director, said: “While parental income remains very important, this new research shows that where you live plays a bigger role in determining educational achievement.”

“Our new research also shows that the story around ethnic origin and education has become much more complex.

 

“Previously, children from all non-white backgrounds did less well.

"Now, children from some ethnic groups, including Chinese and Indian children, do better than the average, while others – including black Caribbean and poor white children – do worse.”