Social Mobility is the term used to describe the shift in an individual’s socio-economic status, either concerning their parents (inter-generational mobility) or over the course of their own lifetime (intra-generational mobility).
The concept is intricately connected to the idea of equality of opportunity, signifying the degree to which individuals have equal prospects for success in life, irrespective of their parents’ socio-economic background, gender, age, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, birthplace, or other factors beyond their control.
Measuring this and equality of opportunity can be approached through various lenses, including earnings, income, or social class. However, it is also broad enough to encompass additional dimensions of well-being, such as health and education.
Education is widely recognized as a potent catalyst for social mobility.
Studies have identified a correlation between low scores in mathematics and reading and disparities between countries and across U.S. states. Furthermore, there is a discernible link between lower average scores in science, mathematics, and reading and the prevalence of inequality.
The role of education stands as a pivotal topic in contemporary sociological and political discourse. In modern societies, education has progressively emerged as a crucial determinant in shaping individuals’ occupational choices and determining their social class positions.
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It has been nine months since the House of Lords Social Mobility Policy Committee, which I chaired, published its report ‘Social mobility: Local roots, lasting…
New research published today reveals a ‘happiness gap’ between people born into different social classes. People’s childhood social class continues to have a significant impact…
Safaraz Ali, founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship & Skills Alliance, has spoken of his pride after receiving an MBE in recognition of his services to…
A young person’s postcode still has a profound impact on the opportunities they have access to. Despite years of policy focused on skills and education…
Welcome to FE Soundbite Edition 824: 21st November 2025. NEETs Drop By 2,000, House of Lords Backs FE For Social Mobility: Will The Chancellor Also…
After considering 58 written pieces of evidence, hearing from 54 witnesses and a visit to meet students, teachers and employers in Blackpool, the House of…
Health, art/music, and sport top the list of job choices for teenagers, with growing interest in engineering, healthcare and construction as they move through school.…
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