So, are you saying that private schooling is fundamental in the self-perpetuating inequality and barriers to social mobility that exist in our society?
It seems to me that if you look at these areas such as journalists, judges, bankers, etc, they are filled with those from a certain type of background (wealthy, well connected, privately educated).
Sadly once this group gain a monopoly on that sector, they want to keep it that way, it becomes like an old boys club (much like the tory party...)
Without wanting to re-open the debate on private schools, I do of course think it plays a significant role and is grossly unfair. I personally have a reservation as to whether banning private schools in this country will actually make these jobs any more accessible to people from poorer backgrounds because I think it is more complex than just where the person was educated.
For instance, if private schools were abolished, parents could still (presumably) pay private personal tutors which will afford an academic advantage over others, get their children to Oxbridge, etc. I suspect it would make the best state schools harder to try into. Also, they will still have their wealth and connections. They will still 'fit in' and socialise in the right circles and be able to live a certain lifestyle which requires money.
I just think elitism in these professions is really deep rooted. I appreciate that you and
@Seanjd see more in terms of the school system on a daily basis and I bow to your experience. I work in law and when I see people promoted to the top jobs, judges, etc, it is often political and about who knows who, who scratches whose back, who had a certain surname, (the private education obviously didn't hurt as well!).
Anyway, with apologies for the long post, I don't think there is any one stop solution, because it is difficult to change people's social circles, wealth and sense of elitism within these areas. A good starting point would be a complete banning on unpaid/low paid internships and also introducing a genuine living wage to give people a genuine chance based on their talent, not wealth.
