Exam results are rising faster in Excellence in Cities areas than in the rest of the country.
Stephen Timms, schools minister, said that the 750 schools in these areas “continue to show” faster-than-average improvements in the number of pupils who gain at least five A*-C grades at GCSE.
“There are strong indications that the extra support for city schools - not least learning mentors, learning support units and enhanced opportunities for gifted and talented children - is making an impact on children’s attainment, on inclusion and on allowing teachers in those schools to concentrate on teaching,” Mr Timms said in response to a question by Labour MP Vera Baird.