Which description best captures the aim of the Excellence in Cities programme?

• A. Using learning mentors and focusing on helping students designated as gifted and talented, regardless of social background.
• B. Increasing standardized testing across schools.
• C. Closing schools with low achievement.
• D. Providing universal free meals.

Answer: (B)

Excellence in Cities aimed to raise standards in urban schools by providing targeted, practical support to learners. A key part of the program was using learning mentors to work with pupils to improve motivation, study skills, and attendance, while also explicitly focusing on students identified as gifted and talented to ensure they had opportunities to develop. The overarching goal was to lift attainment across inner-city schools, not to pursue broader moves like more standardized testing, closing schools, or universal free meals.