AoC responds to the Education Policy Institute's attainment gap report

Cath Sezen, Director of Education Policy, Association of Colleges, said:

“I am saddened, but not shocked, to read that the pandemic continues to cast a long shadow over our young people’s attainment.

“At AoC, we echo many of the recommendations made, including the introduction of pupil premium for 16 to 19-year-olds, and support for ‘late arrival’ school students. We have also been calling on the government to extend the 16-19 tuition fund beyond next year.

“Many students arrive at college at the age of 16 already significantly behind their peers, because their needs have not been met in the secondary system. Therefore, their time at college is the final opportunity to address this attainment gap and ensure that young people have the best opportunity to succeed in life. The stark findings in this report make additional funding and resource for colleges more urgent than ever."