Commenting on the Sutton Trust-EEF’s findings that school closures could undo almost a decade of progress on closing the attainment gap, Shadow Education Secretary, Rebecca Long Bailey MP said:

“The Government must act quickly to mitigate the impact lockdown is having on educational attainment and inequality.

“There needs to be a package of academic and pastoral support, including enhanced pupil premium funding, targeted tuition for disadvantaged pupils, a national programme of emotional and well-being support and modifications to next year’s curriculum and exams.

“But the Government must also understand that tackling the academic shortfall alone will not be enough without tackling the root causes of child poverty and inequality.”