A UNION has spoken out over Ofsted claims that some schools have low expectations.

Claims that struggling schools had less ambition in the group’s annual report have seen union representatives hit back. Blackburn with Darwen Secretary for the NUT Simon Jones said: “Allegations of a ‘poverty of expectation’ are insulting to teachers.

“Schools can control some of the factors over children’s lives but not all of them. We have to tackle the inequalities in society if we are to tackle the low achievement of working class pupils.

“While no teacher would use this as an excuse, it is a plain fact that social background has a very significant impact on the achievement of children.

“Good quality early years education alongside a relevant and engaging curriculum and examination system is essential.

“Cuts to education grants, careers advice, the increase in tuition fees and high youth unemployment all impact the most on working class students. Without access to affordable further and higher education, as well as good quality apprenticeships, many students will just not be able to continue in education or training regardless of their ambition, or indeed that of their teachers.”