Schools in this country have never been better. We have world-class institutions both in the state sector, which has been transformed over the past two decades, and in the independent sector. Britain should shout about the success of its young people and their teachers more than it does.
However, despite this success, our education system is far from perfect and progress stalls too frequently: a high number of students perform very well at GCSE but do not go on to experience similar success at A level and beyond.
As a nation, we are not good enough at consistently ensuring that teenage potential is fulfilled in adult life.
Ensuring later life success
Today, the Eton Star Partnership has published a report that serves to illustrate exactly this point.
Education Policy Institute and Public First researchers have found that 5,000 young people who achieved very well in their GCSEs back in 2013 (achieving at least an A or A* in both English and maths) did not go on to university or complete a degree by the time they were 25.
Of course, there are diverse life stories behind these figures and a university education is not the sole measure of success.
A decade on, many more opportunities are emerging - degree apprenticeships, higher technical qualifications and specialist vocational courses - offering a range of pathways to suit individual circumstances and aspirations.
Whatever route a young person takes, it remains true that if we can nurture and develop their academic talent then this not only improves their life chances, but also brings so much wider social and economic benefit to our communities.
A ‘do tank’
In seeking solutions to systemic challenges such as this, there is power in partnership.
That is why, as the leaders of our respective institutions, we have launched the Eton Star Partnership and are determined that it will serve not just as a “think tank” but, more importantly, as a “do tank”.
Our partnership will be built on the dynamic interchange of ideas.
Through a comprehensive conference and networking programme, we will gather the most influential school leaders and educational thinkers to explore current challenges, propose solutions, influence national policy and help drive change.
As we approach the opening of our three new academic sixth-form colleges, we have confirmed plans to create education research centres in Dudley, Middlesbrough and Oldham, with more to follow.
Hit the ground running
These centres will work with schools, colleges, universities, sector organisations and international partners to ensure that their findings inform policy, investment and school practice.
We already have over 100 schools in our rapidly growing network, supported by our innovative Eton X digital platform, which is used routinely by tens of thousands of young people in our state schools, free of charge.
We are driven by a shared, relentless pursuit of educational excellence for all. Our country and our communities simply cannot afford to allow so much young talent to go unrealised.
The Eton Star Partnership intends to play an active role in helping to change that picture.
Sir Hamid Patel is CEO of Star Academies and Simon Henderson is headmaster of Eton College
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