Responding to new research from UCL (University College London) which finds that academically high-achieving teenagers from deprived backgrounds are five times more likely to be arrested and cautioned or sentenced than their peers from the wealthiest backgrounds, Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

“This research underlines the importance of more government investment in vital youth and community services which help children and families with challenges in their lives, as well as action to tackle the causes and impact of poverty.

“Schools work hard to support pupils, providing an inclusive and safe environment for them to thrive and make progress in their education. But ultimately disruptive behaviour and poor attendance are often symptoms of deeply-ingrained issues which may lie beyond the school gates.

“It’s vital that families and schools can access timely expert support from services like social care and mental health which were under-funded for many years under the previous government.

“No child should see their life chances harmed by their background.”