Submission to the Education Select Committee Inquiry on ‘Underachievement in Education by White Working Class Children’

30 September 2013

There is limited evidence on the characteristics of the white working class, and of their underachievement in education. The particular educational challenges faced by white working class students would therefore benefit from further analysis.  

We know that complex socio-economic factors drive the underachievement of poorer pupils, and that the Government, schools and teachers have a key role to play in ensuring that young people achieve their full potential.

The Russell Group of Universities is playing its part to raise the aspirations and attainment of young people in some of the most deprived areas of the country. Many of these activities will impact positively on white working class pupils.

Related case studies

Edinburgh University’s Educated Pass scheme

At the University of Edinburgh, football is being used in an innovative way to reach some of the groups least likely to apply to university.

Read more >

Specialist maths schools

Links between schools and universities have the potential to raise attainment. The challenge is to make the best use of relationships to add real value to teaching and learning at school and to raise attainment levels as a result. One of the options is to focus on particular disciplines.

Read more >