The Unicef education report says that most early years provision in the world's richest industrial nations is privately financed, and calls for 'significant public investment' in the UK.
The League Table of Educational Disadvantage in Rich Nations ranks the UK seventh, better than all other European countries except Finland and Austria. South Korea and Japan top the league, with Canada faring better than the United States and Germany languishing in the bottom half of the table. The table was created by combining data from five separate tests in reading, literacy, maths and science.
The report finds no clear correlation between national expenditure per pupil and educational achievement, or between the average number of pupils per teacher. However, there is a strong relationship between success in school and 'the occupation, education and economic status of the children's parents, whichever country they live in'.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here