Explanations - Why pupils with working class backgrounds are less successful

Material deprivation - A lack of money and the things money can buy
A lack of encouragement, stimulation and interest from parents
Working-class subculture with it's emphasis on fatalism, present-time orientation and immediate gratification
Cultural deprivation- An absence in the norms, values and skills needed for high attainment. This view has been strongly criticised
The use of elaborated code in schools which disadvantages many working-class pupils
A lack of cultural capital
A lack of social capital
Middle-class pupils are more likely to be placed in higher streams, working-class pupils in lower streams. Entering more working-class pupils for lower level exams, denying them the opportunity to obtain the top grades