Commenting on a report on the social mobility of young people, and how geography, gender and ethnicity impact opportunities, Daniel Kebede, general secretary of the National Education Union, said:
"This report highlights the complex ways in which poverty, geography, ethnicity and gender shape young people's lives. It also exposes the myth that educational success alone is enough to guarantee equal opportunities.
"Our members know that poverty remains the biggest barrier to achievement. While it is encouraging to see many disadvantage children doing well at school, it is deeply concerning that these pupils continue to face barriers in the labour market despite their success in education.
"The findings are a reminder that disadvantage exists in every community and must be addressed wherever it is found. No child should have their future limited by their family income backgrounds or postcode.
"The government must respond with sustained and sufficient investment in schools and a renewed commitment to tackling child poverty. That includes restoring the value of benefits and investing more in the schools and communities that need it most.
"Every child deserves a chance to fulfil their potential. That requires action not only in education, but across society to tackle the inequalities that continue to hold too many young people back."