ISC Daily News Summary

A report published today by the Sutton Trust and the Social Mobility Commission, "Elitist Britain 2019", has found those in influential positions in society were "five times more likely to be privately educated than the average population". By Sean Coughlan and David Brown, BBC News. The article quotes Julie Robinson, chief executive of the Independent Schools Council. The ISC's full response can be found here.

The report was discussed on this morning's BBC Radio 4 Today Programme, featuring Sir Peter Lampl, chairman of the Sutton Trust, and Scott Baker, head of LAE Stratford. Listen from 50:43.

An editorial piece in The Independent comments on the findings and argues "well-resourced schools, with well-paid teachers and motivational heads can transform a generation's prospects". In The Times, Dr Rebecca Montacute, a research fellow at the Sutton Trust, writes that "politicians, civil servants and journalists should not look radically different from the society they serve".

Yvonne Williams, head of English at Portsmouth High School for Girls, highlights what can be done to improve teacher workload and disillusionment. Tes.

A new report, which analysed the performance of pupils in British Columbia, found children that had played a musical instrument for several years "were the equivalent of about one academic year ahead of their peers with regard to their English, mathematics and science skills". By Jane Clinton, iNews.

Schools Week provides a summary of the key topics addressed by education ministers in the House of Commons ahead of summer recess. By Freddie Whittaker.

Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, shadow education secretary Angela Rayner voiced concerns that Brexit planning could result in the delay of a "much-needed" schools funding formula. Tes.

The Guardian explores the debate surrounding classroom pets, featuring perspectives from animal charities and schools on the issue. By Rachel Fraser.