Improving the Odds: Improving Life Chances

Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) has published ‘Improving the Odds: Improving Life Chances’, a report on effective practice in raising achievement.

HM Inspectors visited a number of schools that were making a significant difference for lower-achieving groups of pupils, often in less advantaged communities. Inspectors wanted to find out what these schools had in common and what good practice could be found and shared.

Inspectors found common characteristics of effective practice in raising achievement for the lowest attaining 20% of pupils. These characteristics are described in this publication. The characteristics of effective practice which make a difference to young people’s lives by improving their literacy and numeracy skills are not new or innovative. They are characteristics that should be present in every school, in every class, and in every lesson.

HMIE publication: Improving the Odds: Improving Life Chances