Academies and free schools have transformed the prospects of so many young people – but progress has stalled. Ministers should make it a priority again.
Defeating “the blob” requires attracting more good people into the teaching profession. Then giving the power to make a difference.
As a member of his first Cabinet, I was tested in Northern Ireland – as elsewhere the new government reduced the defict and reformed public services.
Furthermore, further education (FE) is another pressing concern for new Tory voters.
Even Corbyn’s Labour is wary of assaulting his free school and academy legacy directly.
The Conservative Party has been at the forefront of reforms which have helped the disadvantaged. Modern history is full of evidence of this vital strain of conservatism.
The new Prime Minister will inherit the worst political legacy in living memory – with the very barest of working majorities.
By extending the ladder of opportunity to those who currently lack it, e can ensure the next generation climbs it.
Just as high performing and well-led schools were allowed to convert to being academies, good local councils should have the chance of financial independence.
“People need the opportunity to benefit from their ability, their determination, and their hard-work.”
The third writer in our mini-series argues for a focus on finding and keeping good teachers. And asking tough questions of some PGCE courses.
We trail a mini-series on what might happen next amidst a sense of uncertainty about will follow the Gove reforms.
At times, says the Education Secretary, the post he holds requires “a bold and vociferous and constant presence”. But “at other times less so”.
Rayner’s hostility to academies runs against both the interests and preferences of parents and pupils alike.
It now needs to get real. This is clearly the plan in the next few months, starting with the Queen’s Speech tomorrow, leading to the Levelling Up paper.