Published by The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Big Education, Rethinking Assessment and Oasis Charitable Trust

A Call to Embed Enrichment at the Heart of Education

At Rethinking Assessment, we believe that a richer, fairer education system must value more than just exam results. That’s why we’re proud to co-publish Towards Enrichment for All: Building the Case for Enrichment Benchmarks, a new report that sets out a bold, practical vision for how every child and young person can access high-quality, meaningful enrichment.

This work is rooted in a simple truth: Enrichment matters. From boosting wellbeing and belonging to developing essential life skills and broadening aspirations, structured enrichment is vital to helping young people thrive – especially those furthest from opportunity.

Yet access remains inconsistent, inequitable and under-prioritised. This report presents a compelling case for change, and a practical set of Enrichment Benchmarks to help schools, trusts, and partners take action now.

What’s in the Report?

• A new definition of enrichment focused on inclusion, participation and personal growth.
• Evidence showing the deep and lasting impact of enrichment on attendance, wellbeing, life skills and social mobility.
• Voices from over 175 young people and 75 school and community leaders, reflecting what meaningful enrichment looks and feels like to them.
• A proposed set of 8 Enrichment Benchmarks to guide schools in designing, delivering and sustaining a high-quality offer.
• Recommendations for government and the sector – on accountability, funding, infrastructure and implementation.

The 8 Enrichment Benchmarks

Our proposed benchmarks offer a roadmap for schools to build inclusive, high-impact enrichment:

1. Develop a stable programme – with leadership backing and at least 80 hours per pupil per year.
2. Sustain a broad, balanced offer – across arts, sports, outdoors, citizenship, and skills.
3. Link to school priorities – including attendance, wellbeing, and inclusion.
4. Reflect pupil and staff interests – with youth voice and leadership at the centre.
5. Target those at risk of missing out – ensuring equitable access for all.
6. Partner with external providers – to widen opportunity and deepen expertise.
7. Define and track outcomes – from wellbeing and life skills to engagement and aspiration.
8. Continuously improve quality and impact – through training, feedback and reflection.

Why Now?

This report lands at a crucial time. Government has now committed to developing a national Enrichment Framework, and conversations about inclusion, attendance and broader outcomes are gaining momentum.

The Enrichment Benchmarks are our contribution to that conversation. We hope they offer a practical starting point for schools, trusts and policymakers to work together, and reimagine what a truly rich, equitable education can be.

Join the Movement

We invite you to:

• Read the full report and share it with colleagues and partners
• Explore the benchmarks and reflect on your school or trust’s enrichment journey
• Join us in calling for Enrichment for All—so that every young person can access the opportunities they deserve

Reach out if you have a comment or would like to be involved in future work to develop a coalition around Enrichment for All: info@rethinkingassessment.com