Responding to a  new report by the charity Speakers for Schools on a survey which expsed glaring inqualities in young people's knowledge of the education system and careers , James Bowen, assistant general sectretary at school leaders' union NAHT, said:

“This report shines a useful spotlight on the way that disadvantage can manifest itself in all sorts of different forms throughout a young person’s life. 

"It shows that academic outcomes are only one part of the picture and that a whole range of other factors are at play too. Breaking down those additional barriers is vital if we are to give all young people the best possible start in life.

"Work-related learning at secondary age can play an important part in tackling those barriers and is crucial to help pupils to think about their future, while providing them with a valuable taste of the world of work.”