A Revolution Betrayed: How Egalitarians Wrecked the British Education System

There are few subjects these days that cause parents more stress than the education of their children.

In his new book, Peter Hitchens examines the misjudgements made by politicians over the years that have increased class distinction and privilege in the British education system. Ironically, this outcome is the exact opposite of what was intended, particularly by former Minister of Education Shirley Williams and her successor, Margaret Thatcher, who went on to close even more Grammar Schools than Williams.

The State of Education Today

• The cost of private secondary education is now approximately £50,000 a year.
• The top Comprehensive Schools (e.g., William Ellis, Camden School for Girls, The Oratory, Cardinal Vaughan) are oversubscribed, leaving many parents desperate.
• Parents are spending thousands on private tutoring and fee-paying prep schools to secure places in academically excellent institutions.

At the same time, hypocritical Labour politicians like Diane Abbott choose to send their children to expensive private day schools, raising the question: What alternatives—if any—are there?

A System Riddled with Anomalies

Peter Hitchens argues that the attempt to create an egalitarian education system has instead resulted in one that is deeply unequal. He highlights several inconsistencies:

• Sixth Form Colleges select pupils based on ability at the age of 15, effectively excluding children without significant educational support at home (e.g., involved parents or private tutors).
• Academies, while claiming not to be selective, often operate selectively in practice.

A Call for Radical Change

This book offers an in-depth look at the British education system and explores the consequences of maintaining the status quo. According to Hitchens, radical changes are necessary to prevent further deterioration of the system.