In this article the author discusses the multiple ways in which the enduring, and increasing, problems associated with child poverty blight young people's educational opportunities in the school system. Current policies, supported by a sympathetic media, blame individuals for their poverty, and blame teachers when they fail to "close the gap". The article concludes that these problems can only be addressed by increasing resources devoted to tackling poverty, and developing a more supportive and sophisticated approach to those schools facing the biggest challenges.