Mission 5: By 2030, the number of primary school children achieving the expected standard in reading, writing and maths will have significantly increased. In England, this will mean 90% of children will achieve the expected standard, and the percentage of children meeting the expected standard in the worst performing areas will have increased by over a third.

How does this mission relate to spatial disparities?

This mission is directed at improving literacy and numeracy and reducing spatial disparities in educational attainment among primary school children across all parts of the UK, with a focus on the worst performing areas. Education is the foundation for building human capital. It plays a crucial role in allowing people to build skills and reach their potential. It also enables people to participate in their community and affects their quality of life. Improving education in the worst performing areas is a targeted way of spreading opportunity and improving prosperity across the UK.

Metrics considered within the analysis:

1. Percentage of children achieving at least expected level across all early learning goals
2. Percentage of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths at the end of key stage 2
3. Percentage of young people in the state sector who reached Level 2 with English and maths by age 19
4. Percentage of schools rated good or outstanding by Ofsted
5. Pupil absence in schools in England: Percentage of persistent absentees (10% missed)
6. Pupil absence in schools in England: Percentage of persistent absentees (10% missed) for those eligible for Free School Meals