The Growing Education Gap: Why Class Divide's Mission is More Crucial Than Ever

The recent study by the Education Policy Institute (EPI) has shed light on a disturbing trend in England's education system - the widening attainment gap between students from low-income families and their wealthier peers. This report resonates deeply with our mission and underscores the urgency of our work.

The EPI's findings are alarming:

1. Disadvantaged pupils are now more than 19 months behind their peers by GCSE level.

2. The gap has increased at every stage of schooling - ages 5, 11, and 16.

3. Persistently disadvantaged pupils face an even larger gap of two years by age 16.

These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent real children whose potential is being stifled by systemic inequalities. As Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT school leaders' union, aptly described it, this is "a national tragedy."

At Class Divide, we've been witnessing these disparities firsthand in the East Brighton communities of Whitehawk, Manor Farm, and Bristol Estate. Our mission to create a socially inclusive education system in Brighton & Hove has never been more critical.

The EPI report highlights that London continues to have higher attainment for disadvantaged pupils than anywhere else in England. This gives us hope - it shows that change is possible with the right policies and focus.

Our campaign's manifesto outlines key steps to address these inequalities:

1. Prioritising Free School Meal-eligible children in secondary school admissions

2. Providing free public transport for all children to travel to school

3. Uprating and ring-fencing pupil premium funding

4. Incentivising people from working-class backgrounds to become teachers

5. Create an education system that is inclusive for all

These measures align closely with the recommendations implied by the EPI report, such as higher levels of funding targeted towards disadvantaged pupils and a cross-government child poverty strategy.

The widening education gap is not just a local issue for Brighton & Hove - it's a national crisis that demands immediate attention. As we continue our work to make Brighton & Hove the best place for children from low-income families to go to school, we're also committed to spreading these ideas across the UK.

The EPI report serves as a stark reminder of why campaigns like Class Divide are essential. We must continue to challenge unjust stereotypes, build a broad movement for change, and dismantle the policies and structures that perpetuate educational inequality.

Join us in our mission. Together, we can create an education system that truly serves all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

The future of our children - and our society - depends on our ability to close this gap and ensure equitable education for all.