She is the daughter of Ampleforth-educated Philippe (Philip) Maurice Vignoles (23 March 1943 - 24 January 2002) of East Horsley and Lucy Ronca from Amberley, Gloucestershire, who married at Woodchester Priory on Saturday 4 June 1966, conducted by Roman Catholic John Petit (bishop).
The musician Roger Vignoles is the son of her father's elder half-brother (born in Grimsby); her half-cousin.
[13][14] She researches the ways in which the school system does or does not improve social mobility and ensures that people have the skills they need for the modern labour market.
[23] Her research has suggested ways to reduce the large socioeconomic inequalities in education achievement that are present in the UK.
Wonk of the Year 2018, WonkHE[28] Winner of the British Education Journal Annual Editors' Choice Award 2016[29] Winner of the Economic Journal exceptional contribution to reviewing 2017[30] She was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2019 Birthday Honours for services to social sciences.