Phillipson Pledges to Address Educational Inequalities Ahead of A-Level Results

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has vowed to address entrenched educational inequalities to provide all students with equal opportunities for success. Accusing the Conservative administration of perpetuating regional disparities and widening the gap between private and state school outcomes, Phillipson emphasized the need for reform.

Speaking ahead of A-level results day on Thursday, Phillipson highlighted persistent issues in educational attainment, particularly the significant gap in top A-level grades between comprehensive and independent schools, as well as between the north and south of England. Last year, there was an 8.3 percentage point difference in the proportion of A* and A grades between the south-east and north-east of England.

Phillipson cited poverty as a major driver of educational disparities, urging immediate action to address child poverty, which she views as a critical factor in the unequal educational outcomes. She also called for universities to enhance their efforts to widen participation and provide ongoing support to students to improve retention rates.

The Shadow Education Secretary expressed concern that after 14 years of Conservative leadership, the education system remains deeply unequal. “Our mission is to ensure that every young person, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed,” she stated. She acknowledged the substantial challenge ahead but remains committed to reforming the system to close the gaps in educational outcomes.

In response, Damian Hinds, Shadow Education Secretary, defended the Conservative record, highlighting achievements such as increased teacher numbers, improved school ratings, and higher levels of university attendance among disadvantaged students compared to 2010.

With A-level results due to be released, experts have noted potential impacts on university applications due to the cost-of-living crisis and shifting perceptions of higher education. Ucas data indicates a lower university application rate in the north-east compared to London. Phillipson emphasized the need for reforms to support students financially and ensure that university remains a viable option for all.

Jo Saxton, Ucas Chief Executive, and Sir Ian Bauckham, Chief Regulator of Ofqual, both expressed concerns about regional and socio-economic disparities in education. Saxton called for more equitable application rates, while Bauckham highlighted the importance of fair assessment systems to close these gaps.