Key Stage 2 statistics show widening disadvantage gap

As reported in the National Education Union, the Department for Education Key Stage 2 statistics show widening disadvantage gap amongst pupils and effects of long-term underfunding

Commenting on the Department for Education Key Stage 2 statistics showing a widening of the disadvantage gap amongst pupils, Kevin Courtney, Joint General Secretary of the National Education Union, said:  

“Whilst we do not believe that Key Stage 2 SATs are a fair and accurate method of judging children’s learning, this data shows an insight into the effects of long-term underfunding, as well as the effects of the covid pandemic.

‘The attainment of disadvantaged children has again, been disproportionately affected. This is not only due to school closures, but because poverty reduces access to food and learning resources. It also affects the physical and mental health of children and their social development. These are all factors which impact learning.

‘In the coming months, the same families will be facing increasing energy bills. We expect that without thorough support from the government, the effects of poverty will worsen for these children and their families.

‘Schools will also be making difficult decisions to pay these bills too. Leaders have considered measures such as reducing staff and increasing class sizes. All of these decisions will impact children’s education, especially those who are disadvantaged”.