A constant motivation for working with young people is that education makes a difference to life chances. However, we work in a wider system where inequality seems baked into the structures that allocate good quality school places to young people. The Fabian Society recently published an article, Equal Access, that sets out how the admissions processes at all stages of education reduce opportunity for disadvantaged pupils. They evidence that pupils from more advantaged backgrounds are more likely to attend schools that get better results in national tests. In London, pupils eligible for free school meals (FSM) attend, on average, schools where 59 per cent of pupils achieve 5 or more passes at GCSE, compared to 65 per cent for non-FSM students. The gap is wider still outside London. Non-FSM students tend to attend schools where there is a greater chance of academic success, with significant implications for their prospects.
The recent publication of national 2023 Key Stage 2 data showed that the disadvantage gap index, whilst marginally narrowed, continues to be at its highest level for 10 years. At post 16, the inherent issue with predicted grades being used for University applications, with high-attaining disadvantaged students and state school students receiving less generous grades than their more advantaged and independent school counterparts having consequences for course application decisions.
We often operate in a context of distractions over which educators have limited agency, so it is helpful to be reminded of the ways that Camden can buck the trend and ensure that every Camden school affords excellent opportunities for young people wherever they live in our borough. Through a joined up local offer we can ensure that every Camden school has the same ambition for all its pupils. Our networks and school led learning hubs and initiatives, alongside our continued focus on outcomes for disadvantaged pupils, are one way of supporting this aim. The School Led Improvement Group this week discussed priorities for school led learning in the coming year, and we look forward to discussing this, alongside the learning that emanates from 2022-23 hub impact reports, with you in the coming weeks as we finalise the 2023/4 Implementation Plan for Building Back Stronger.
It was great to see Primary Heads escaping the clutches of their schools to meet at 5PS this week, with Secondary Heads meeting next Wednesday afternoon. Unfortunately, our Building Back Stronger conference planned for the 6th October has had to be postponed because of the difficulties created by the tube strikes on that day. We will confirm a new date with you as soon as possible. I look forward to seeing you there if not before.
Thank you as always for the difference you are making.
Stephen Hall
Chief Executive Officer, Camden Learning
