Disadvantage gap for access to some subjects outside the EBacc core has grown dramatically in past 10 years, new data analysis shows
Data shows widening disadvantage gap in terms of access to some subjects at KS4. Image: iStock/Getty Images.
Children attending schools in poorer areas now much more likely than they were a decade ago not to be offered courses in design and technology, music, or performing arts.
New evidence of the extent to which England’s key stage 4 curriculum has narrowed over the past 10 years – with schools in disadvantaged communities hardest-hit – emerged today with the publication of new data analysis.
A string of national curriculum subjects saw the proportion of schools which had not a single GCSE or vocational qualification entry from any of their pupils rising dramatically, suggesting that in these institutions, the courses were not being offered, as of last year.
The evidence came in an analysis by the organisation FFT Education Datalab, published earlier today.
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By Warwick Mansell for EDUCATION UNCOVERED
Published: 9 October 2025
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