Study: Gove's Free Schools Increase Division and Hurt Local Schools

A recent analysis by University College London has revealed that Michael Gove’s free schools programme has contributed to increased social segregation within the education system. The study indicates that the establishment of free schools has not only diminished student intakes at nearby schools but has also failed to significantly enhance student attainment in those institutions. This raises concerns among school leaders, particularly as funding is largely dependent on student numbers. The free schools initiative, which allows various groups to establish schools regardless of local demand, has seen over 650 schools open across the country. While some secondary schools experienced a slight improvement in English and maths scores following the opening of a free school, this was primarily attributed to the influx of more advantaged students. Conversely, secondary schools that admitted a more disadvantaged demographic did not show similar improvements. Rob Higham, the lead author of the study, emphasized that the introduction of free schools has often led to increased competition, which has not necessarily driven innovation or improvement in neighboring schools. Instead, this competition has the potential to exacerbate social divisions within the education system, particularly affecting schools in deprived areas. As the education sector braces for the upcoming GCSE results, experts express concern that the legacy of school closures during the Covid pandemic may further impact student performance, with only 42% of 18-year-olds in England achieving A* or A grades in maths.