Children in Newcastle are outperforming their peers in several of England’s largest cities, according to statistics released from the Department for Education.
The figures relate to assessments taken at the end of Year 6, when most pupils are aged 11, and show that Newcastle is exceeding both the national average and the regional picture in key measures.
Across England, 62 per cent of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined. While the North East overall also stands at 62 per cent, Newcastle achieved a significantly higher rate of 66 per cent. This places the city ahead of other major urban areas including Leeds (61%), Sheffield (59%), Manchester (58%) and Liverpool (57%).
Newcastle’s performance highlights the determination of pupils and the strength of the city’s schools despite significant socio-economic challenges. In 2022/23, around 33.8% of children in Newcastle were living in relative poverty after housing costs. Prior to the cost-of-living crisis, in 2021/22, 22,801 children under the age of 16, 38% of all children in the city, were living in poverty, representing an increase of 9.5% since 2014/15.
The wider context across the region is equally challenging. The North East experienced the largest increase in child poverty after housing costs in England between 2014/15 and 2021/22, rising from 26.3% to 35.2%.
Against this backdrop, Newcastle’s strong educational outcomes demonstrate the hard work, resilience and ambition of the city’s children, as well as the dedicated support provided by schools, teachers and wider children’s services.
Cath McEvoy-Carr, Director of Children and Families said:
“These results are a real achievement for Newcastle’s children. Too many of our families face daily financial pressures, yet our young people continue to work hard and achieve strong outcomes. These achievements show the determination of our children, the commitment of our schools, and the vital support services around them. We are incredibly proud of the progress that has been made, and we remain committed to supporting all children to get the best possible start in life.”
The city’s commitment to supporting its youngest residents was also recognised last year when the council’s Children’s Services retained their ‘Good’ overall Ofsted rating, with the experiences and progress of children who need help and protection rated ‘Outstanding’.
The council continues to work with schools, partners and communities to support families, reduce inequality and ensure that all children in Newcastle can thrive.
Full results can be found online.