The progressive test

When Brighton made history by giving children on free school meals priority access to secondary schools, it became the first city in England to take such a bold step towards educational equality. But was it enough? In this first episode of a special three-part series, Class Divide explores why true integration of our schools matters - not just for our poorest children, but for everyone.From Longhill High School's fight against stigma to groundbreaking research on school segregation, we uncover how a city proud of its progressive values faces its biggest test yet.Through conversations with teachers, researchers and families, we explore what happens when principles meet personal choices, and why creating truly mixed schools could be the key to Brighton's future.As the city considers its next steps towards educational equality, we ask: can Brighton live up to its reputation as a haven of inclusivity when change affects our own children's education? Join us as we explore how building an education system that works for our poorest children first creates better schools for everyone.Links & Resources:Take part in the Council's consultation on school admissions (open until January 31st)DonateLink to Episode 1Organisations Mentioned:The Crew ClubThe Sutton TrustDurham University Evidence Center for EducationGuests:Rachelle Otulakowski - Headteacher, Longhill High SchoolProfessor Stephen Gorard - Durham UniversitySammy Wright - Headteacher and former Social Mobility CommissionerRichard Kahlenberg - Education researcherCharley O'Regan - Senior Schools Engagement Manager, Sutton TrustLeslie Reeves - Social prescribing health worker and East Brighton ParentBeth - Whitehawk parentDave - Whitehawk parentCarlie Goldsmith - Class Divide co-founderJo Lyons - Assistant Director for Education and Skills, Brighton & Hove City CouncilCouncillor Jacob Taylor - Deputy Leader of the CouncilCredits:Curtis James - Writer and ProducerEve Streeter - Executive ProducerCarlie Goldsmith - Editorial Guidance & Class Divide co-founderMusic Credits:Music in this series was kindly donated by Olivier Alary, Maaja Nuut, Rumm, Neil Hale, Salvatore Mercatante, Polypores, Minor Pieces, Shida Shahabi, Max de Wardener, Simon James, Rutger Hoedemaekers, Toydrum, The Official Body, Benjamin Harrison, Traams, and Clarice Jensen. Thanks to Alex at Fat Cat Records, and Colin at Castles in Space.Further Reading:"Exam Nation" by Sammy WrightHow to connect with Class Divide Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Om Podcasten

Class Divide is a powerful podcast series that exposes educational inequality in the UK. Through two years of documentary work, it sheds light on education in underprivileged areas such as East Brighton estates of Whitehawk, Manor Farm and Bristol Estate. Shockingly, only 37% of young people in East Brighton achieved basic GCSE grades compared to 69% in the rest of the city in 2019.The series follows the lives of a daughter and three sons from Whitehawk, emphasizing the transformative power of education. Along with families and teachers, education experts such as Professor Diane Reay and writer Fiona Millar will weigh in on the roots of the UK's educational segregation and attainment gap. The series also features guest appearances by renowned figures such as Darren McGarvey.The series is written and presented by Curtis James. Curtis grew up in East Brighton and went to school in Whitehawk.Class Divide is a grassroots campaign fighting to draw attention to the deeply injust educational attainment gap for young people from the communities of Whitehawk, Manor Farm and Bristol Estate in Brighton and Hove. The campaign is made up of parents, residents, experts and supporters who have experienced these problems or have expertise in education, and are funded where necessary by donations and independent of any political organisation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.