In mathematics, a parabola is a plane curve which is mirror-symmetrical and is approximately U-shaped. As a shape it figuratively represents the curve our society finds itself on, the trajectories of each of us being pre-determined by where on that curve we are born. Our trajectory might be upwards or downwards according to our relative level of wealth.
Social mobility is the hallmark of a fair and just society; the opportunity for advancement based on capability and hard work is a bedrock on which social cohesion is established and maintained. It is what allows society to flourish and for us to maximise the utility of our collective talent. In this way, we create a system that can care for, and nurture everyone so that no one gets left behind.
At some point in the past social mobility in the UK went into decline, and the gap between rich and poor began to widen. This project seeks to explore the experience of the structural differences arising from wealth inequality and the decline in social mobility that. As a counter to this problem, it also aims to demonstrate the role and impact that education can have in breaking down those barriers and restoring social mobility.
This exploration, currently in progress, is being undertaken by creating a series of portraits of pupils whose enrolment at Christ’s Hospital would not have been possible without significant financial assistance. It will highlight the value of the work the school does in making a difference to lives of the individual pupil, their family and the community from which they come.
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