11th February 2014 9:00
By Blue Tutors
A study published by the Institute of Education has shown that school children from poorer backgrounds are not receiving the guidance they need in order to make decisions about their curriculum and future. The researchers found that although the general attainment gap between the wealthy and those from poorer backgrounds is closing, there is still a significant issue surrounding the choices that poorer students are making. Of particular concern is the fact that although poorer students are improving their grades in core subjects such as English, Maths and Sciences, they are often not being encouraged to take these subjects further. This means that even though they are performing better academically, many university and employment opportunities are closed to them.
The good news is that the relative attainment gap between 11 year olds is closing, and that standards are improving for families from poorer backgrounds. However, the study highlighted a knowledge gap between wealthy and poorer students which meant that poorer students are still significantly disadvantaged later on in life. Researchers concluded that many schools are currently not providing the best information and advice about what top universities and employers are looking for. As a result, students are pursuing A’ levels that will not serve them well when it comes to making applications later on.
The report advised that better and more consistent advice be made available to students through their schools. In particular, schools are advised to make sure that students know that good grades in core subjects will be more beneficial to them later on than high achievements in other subjects. English, Maths, Science, History and Modern Languages should all be encouraged, and the number of subjects taken such as Media Studies and performing arts should be limited. The The Association of School and College Leaders said that schools could not held responsible for the issue, and that there was only a certain amount they could do to push students in a certain direction. They commented that the government needed to reduce inequality in society more generally, in order for students to make the most of the opportunities open to them