David Goodhart

Poor white pupils, particularly in deindustrialised British towns such as Barnsley, face weak educational outcomes, limited vocational alternatives and declining social mobility. The article attributes this to economic change, regional inequality, school systems focused heavily on university progression, and cultural attitudes toward education, while arguing that progressive politics has neglected these communities in its focus on ethnic minorities. It welcomes the Government's levelling-up agenda and investment in technical training, but says existing recommendations are insufficient and proposes that every pupil master a practical skill before leaving secondary school.

David Goodhart argues that Gareth Southgate's diverse and largely provincial England squad has helped make English national identity appear more inclusive, modern and socially representative. The team's ethnic diversity, modest backgrounds, disciplined conduct and connection to post-industrial communities have attracted support from groups that have traditionally viewed Englishness as a white identity. While the resulting unity may be temporary, the World Cup run offers a shared national experience at a time when the country remains divided over Brexit.