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'Other People’s Children make a grand sweep over the history of education, providing a fascinating description of year of policy failure to address a fundamental challenge which we have faced in this country for at least the last century, but probably for longer. The coverage and the depth of analysis is impressive and should make this book a must-read for any policy wonks in the field; it will certainly provide food for thought for any committed reader. As I read the book, I hoped in vain for a beautifully-crafted final chapter with the simple silver bullet solutions; but of course I was to be disappointed. That’s no surprise, because the challenge the book addresses is so longstanding and so tied up in the culture, class system and politics of our nation. There is no easy solution. The data presented shows just how entrenched and stubborn our class system, our geographical inequalities and our values are in educational and life outcomes.' David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges

'For too long, our FE provision has felt like the Cinderella offer within our wider education system. In this strongly argued analysis, Barnaby Lenon has built on his best-selling book about high-performing state schools, Much Promise, with this heartfelt call to action to improve the status and quality of what is on offer for almost half of all pupils as they enter post-16 education. As a society, he argues, we need to value ‘head, hand and heart’, not just cognitive ability. In his characteristically thorough way, Barnaby Lenon summarises the key evidence in this important debate, starting with the early years, highlighting how educational disadvantage leads to a growing achievement gap and an unacceptably long tail of underachievement. His analysis forms the basis of an insightful critique of current reforms that leads to a series of powerful recommendations about how this important area of our educational system can be given the status and success it deserves.' Andy Buck, CEO, Leadership Matters