Data released in a recent report published by the Institute of Fiscal Studies (IFS) shows that inequality in UK education is not being tackled – emphasising the ever-widening gap that continues to exist between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.

The report highlights that over the past 20 years there has been virtually no change in the ‘disadvantage gap’ in GCSE attainment with data showing that “16-year-olds who are eligible for free school meals are still around 27 percentage points less likely to earn good GCSEs than less disadvantaged peers.”

With the report stating that “higher levels of qualifications are strongly associated with better prospects in the labour market”, ESB continues to recognise the importance of tackling educational inequality and is passionate about closing the disadvantage gap.

Says ESB’s Chief Executive, Tina Renshaw:

ESB is committed to empowering all learners – especially those individuals who need it the most – to develop the key communication and language skills they need to achieve their aspirations.

Our wide range of accessible, oracy and English language qualifications, recognised and mapped to the relevant common curriculum requirements, enable learners to develop the tools to thrive in education, training and employment.

Employers continue to tell us that teamwork and communication skills are central to their success and need to be of a higher standard when people enter the workforce. The development of effective communication, alongside an accredited qualification, gives learners a clear advantage when applying for a place in college, university or in the job market.

ESB provides financial support to groups and organisations which are seeking to close the disadvantage gap

The Christabel Burniston Fund, established in honour of our founder, provides financial support to groups and organisations which are seeking to close the disadvantage gap. ESB’s 70/70 campaign, launched to celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2023 provides an expansion on the support it already offers through the Fund.

Not only do Christabel Burniston-Funded centres receive free training for their school staff and a reduction in assessment fees, but they also receive an annual impact report including de-identified learner data that focuses on the progress made.

Over the last 3 academic years, more than 60 centres have benefited from the support provided by The Christabel Burniston Fund with resounding successes shown in the huge improvement of learners’ speaking and listening skills.

Tina adds:

We are steadfast in our determination to reduce the impacts of disadvantage on individuals developing key speaking and listening skills and want to reach more organisations where learners face disadvantage due to socio-economic factors, special educational needs and disabilities, and/or migration status and enable them access to our speaking and listening qualifications.

If you believe your learners or young people would benefit from ESB qualifications, we would love to hear from you! Get in touch to find out whether your centre is eligible for funding and support through our 70/70 campaign. Please email business@esbuk.org.

The report can be read in full here.