Attainment gap is still growing

Children from low-income families are still underachieving

Recent figures for the Key Stage 1 exams have been released recently, and figures show that despite the funding available for children from low-income families many of them are still not achieving the expect levels of development, and many are falling behind. The figures how shown that the attainment gap between children from poorer backgrounds and those from more finically well off backgrounds is increasing.

This is a concern, and although the figure relates to children at the age of 7, it may lead to early years professionals questioning whether enough is being done in the early years to support these children. Some of the children from the lowest earning households will be entitled to funding from as early as the age of 2 so why is it that the attainment gap is still not being narrowed?

Some are arguing that it is unfair to compare these results to ones from previous years as the exams have been changed and many feel they are now much harder. This may be the reason for the gap appearing to have increased.

Children from low-income families will also receive early years pupil premium additional funding which should be put towards supporting these children and narrowing the gap. For the gap to be narrowed it could be suggested that a child needs to attend an outstanding setting with highly qualified practitioners as studies and research shows that this is where the best outcomes for children are achieved.

On the other hand, many would argue that we have more outstanding settings than ever before so it could be that enough is not being done during key stage one to support these children. Whatever the cause it is clear that this is an issue which needs addressing.

How can practitioners reduce the attainment gap?

Regardless of the cause, it is important the early year’s settings are still doing their very best for all children and are supporting children from low-income families to ensure the early years are doing their part to tackle the issues. Here are some ways children from low-income families can be better supported.

·         Spend the EYPP wisely – Follow this link for some ideas

·         Create strong parent partnerships

·         Offer home learning sheets and ideas/ story sacs or resources that can be taken home. Not all children have access to lots of toys, books and resources at home. Home learning is equally important.

·         Identify starting point through efficient tracking and effectively plan next steps

·         Early intervention will help identify and support any individual needs

·         Have an effective key person system

·         Ensure practitioners are receiving up to date training and the CPD is high on the agenda for the setting