IFS Inequality

The report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies explores the persistent educational inequalities in the UK, noting that despite overall rises in educational levels, intergenerational improvements in literacy and numeracy are stagnant compared to global trends. It underscores the link between education and labour market outcomes, highlighting the disparities in attainment among socioeconomically disadvantaged students—a gap widened by the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors propose principles for equitable education policy, stressing the need for early interventions, quality vocational pathways, and a holistic view of educational success beyond test scores, considering factors like soft skills, mental health, and economic inequality.