Commenting on the decision to approve an ‘annexe’ to the Weald of Kent grammar school, Sir Peter Lampl, chairman of the Sutton Trust, said today:

“News of the new Kent annexe should encourage discussion about what more the remaining grammar schools can do to improve social mobility. At present, too much entry to grammar schools is dependent on your parents’ bank balance – and their ability to afford prep school or private tuition.

“The best grammar schools are actively reaching out to bright pupils from less advantaged backgrounds and introducing fair admissions that recognise that their families can’t afford private tutors or prep school fees. Others should do more to follow their example.

“At the same time, we need to improve provision for highly able children in comprehensives, too many of whom fall back at secondary school and fail to meet their potential.”