Schools failing poor kids, says Ofsted

Sir Michael Wilshaw, of Ofsted, is to speak on schooling and poor children

By Nicole Hamer |

13:03 20 June 2013

Sir Michael Wilshaw, a Chief Inspector of Schools from the watchdog Ofsted, will make a speech on Thursday, 20th June - as of time of writing - which will address schooling.

Reportedly, his view is that some poor children being let down by schooling can be related to suburban and also seaside areas, instead of this relating to the cities.

Based on reports, details are to be released which show schooling that is failing poorer children is apparent in areas outside of cities, such as on the coast or the rural areas, in certain parts of England.

The Chief is expected to call for a group of ‘national service teachers’ to help out where required.

It is understood it would come from central government.

Sir Michael Wilshaw is expected to say: “Today, many of the disadvantaged children performing least well can be found in leafy suburbs, market towns or seaside resorts.”

Adding: “Often, they are spread thinly as an ‘invisible minority’ across areas that are relatively affluent. These poor, unseen children can be found in mediocre schools the length and breadth of the country.

“They are labelled, buried in lower sets, consigned as often as not to indifferent teaching. They coast through education until – at the earliest opportunity – they sever their ties with it.”