As the prime minister, Keir Starmer holds the responsibility to consider the welfare of all children, not just his own. While it’s natural for parents to desire the best for their children, leaders shaping educational policies must reflect on how privilege can impact opportunities for the broader population.
Many parents wish to provide a private, conducive space for their child to study. However, economic and housing limitations often make this unattainable for many families. The lack of access to essential resources such as digital devices, reliable internet, and adequate data further restricts children's ability to engage fully in remote learning.
While some children can focus solely on exams without other distractions, this is not the case for all. Many young people face challenges such as care responsibilities, estrangement, bereavement, illness, or long commutes that hinder their performance.
It is vital for Starmer to broaden his focus and consider the diverse needs of children across the country. Collaborating with education experts from various backgrounds could lead to new strategies that ensure all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to the best possible education.
