Responding to Sir Michael Wilshaw’s final annual report as chief inspector, Sir Peter Lampl, chairman of the Sutton Trust and of the Education Endowment Foundation said:

“Sir Michael Wilshaw’s final report is a robust reminder of the big education gaps that exist between different parts of England. Social mobility is a much bigger problem in some regions than others. It is vital that we find ways to improve education and opportunities in the North if we are to reverse the alienation that seems to have contributed to Brexit.

“Sir Michael is also right to stress the importance of having a strong apprenticeship offer for young people. We need not just better college courses, but far more good apprenticeships both at level 3 – A level standard – and at degree level as a real alternative to university courses.

“Too many young people are not mastering the basics. It is vital that young people reach a good standard of English and Maths and the Education Endowment Foundation’s work in this area should help schools and colleges get it right for those who missed out at GCSE.

“As Chief Inspector, Sir Michael has been a brilliant advocate for disadvantaged young people and the needs of highly able young people from low and middle income backgrounds. It is vital they remain central to Ofsted’s agenda for the future. We look forward to working with Sir Michael on these issues when he chairs the EEF’s education advisory group.”