Every child deserves to have the same opportunities to reach their full potential, whatever their background or wherever they live in the country. I am encouraged that the attainment gap is narrowing between disadvantaged pupils and their peers and that 1.8 million more pupils are in good or outstanding schools than in 2010. I also welcome that in this year alone £2.5 billion is being spent through the pupil premium to tackle educational inequality.
There are also other initiatives in place to enhance social mobility. Social mobility ‘cold spots’ are being targeted with twelve Opportunity Areas identified across the country. As part of this programme local organisations, schools, colleges and businesses will work in collaboration to overcome barriers to social mobility.
I will continue to be a champion for social mobility being at the heart of every Government policy.