Responding to new research from the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) showing post-16 subject choice in England is restricted by location and a fragmented education system is limiting opportunities for students, Sarah Hannafin, head of policy at school leaders' union NAHT, said:

"Any geographical variation in the availability of qualifications means that some students will need to travel to access the qualification they wish to take or their needs and aspirations may not be met.

"This has a disproportionate negative impact on some groups of students, for example students with special educational needs (SEND) for whom NAHT has concerns about the accessibility of suitable transport and specialist support, as well as young carers who are unable to travel far from the people they care for.

"In order to achieve equality of access for students regardless of where they live, a collaborative approach between providers is vital to ensure a wide range of suitable vocational and academic qualifications are available to meet the needs of all young people."