White working-class children failed by education system, says inquiry

The inquiry found a growing belief among white working-class families that the current education system does not guarantee future success. Baroness Morris, who was education secretary under Tony Blair's Labour government from 2001 to 2002, said none of the initiatives rolled out in the past 30 years had significantly or sustainably boosted the performance of white working-class children in school. There was a disconnect between what the children and their parents want in terms of careers and what their schools can offer them, she said. While the system often emphasises academic progression to higher education, the inquiry said many families place greater importance on the social experience of school and wanted to see more high-quality vocational options like apprenticeships in their local area. The inquiry is calling for sweeping changes, from more support in the early years to improved mental health support and restrictions on smartphone use in schools. …