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The UK government’s new white paper, Every Child Achieving and Thriving, sets out a broader vision for education in England. Published on 23 February 2026, it argues that schools should not be judged only by academic results, but by how well they help children thrive, belong and prepare for adult life.

At the heart of the paper is a shift from a narrow focus on what happens inside the classroom to a wider view of childhood. That means stronger support from early years onwards, richer and more inclusive school experiences, and closer links between schools, families and local services. The government says every child should have access to a broad, knowledge-rich curriculum, enrichment opportunities, and better support through key transitions in education.

The white paper is also framed as a response to some stark problems. It says around one in five children miss a day of school every fortnight, the UK ranks last out of 27 European countries for 15-year-olds’ life satisfaction, and too many young people end up disengaged from education altogether. It also highlights persistent inequality, especially for disadvantaged pupils, white working-class children and children with SEND.

A major focus is inclusion. The paper says more children with SEND should be able to attend their local mainstream school, supported by better-trained staff, earlier intervention and more specialist provision within mainstream settings. It also points to investment in 10,000 more school and college places for children and young people with SEND.

Alongside this, the government links education reform to wider family and community support. Measures mentioned include free breakfast clubs in every primary school, action on child poverty, youth services and investment in community facilities, all aimed at helping children arrive at school ready to learn and feel more connected beyond the school gates.

Overall, the message is that education reform cannot stop at exams or school gates. The paper calls for a system that combines high standards with belonging, inclusion and opportunity, so that every child is not only achieving, but thriving.