Commenting on new UCL research showing that low-income white children are already disengaged before they start secondary school, James Bowen, assistant general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

“This latest research is incredibly welcome. It is only by properly understanding the causes of underachievement in this group of pupils that we will be able to begin to find solutions. Improving pupils’ engagement and indeed enjoyment of school through all ages must now be a priority.”