NFER responds to latest EPI report on the state of education in England

Commenting on the findings of the new Education Policy Institute (EPI) report on the state of education in England, focusing on pupil attainment, Dr Ben Styles, NFER's Head of Classroom Practice, said:

“The findings of this report paint a worrying picture, with the attainment gap between disadvantaged pupils, particularly those at ages five, 11 and 16, and their peers continuing to grow.

“Schools are already facing increased challenges due to the impact of the cost of living. The new Government should aim to develop a long-term strategy that would have a particular focus on very low attaining pupils and closing the disadvantage gap. To do this, it is essential that schools are both adequately funded and supported to do so using evidence-based approaches.”