Working-class white children least positive about school, study finds

White pupils from low-income families in England start secondary school with far lower levels of enthusiasm or effort than other ethnic groups, according to research that may partly explain differences in academic results and behaviour.

- Richard Adams Education editor

Both girls and boys from lower-income white families reported weak levels of engagement from year 7 on, with girls less likely to enjoy being at school, while the boys made less effort with their school work.

Only half said they worked hard at school, compared with about 70% of disadvantaged pupils of south Asian ethnicity.

The study measured levels of engagement in questionnaires taken by pupils at more than 120 schools, which tested response to statements such as “I don’t feel bored at school” and “What I learn at school will help me in the future”.