Speaking following the speech of Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson to the Labour Party Conference, NASUWT General Secretary Dr Patrick Roach said:

“The Education Secretary has today set out a very compelling vision for securing stronger foundations that will give all children the opportunity to succeed in life.

“It is welcome that the new government is putting its priority on a plan which works for all children.

“Children only get one chance and it is clear that the government is determined to act with urgency to improve outcomes, remove
barriers to learning, and tackle the scourge of poverty which is blighting the lives of so many young people.

“The last 14 years have seen more and more pressure and responsibility being placed onto schools while the wider network of support services have faced deep cuts. It is welcome that the Education Secretary is determined build better support for children, young people and families both within and beyond the school gates.

“It’s vitally important that the new government invests in restoring wraparound support to remove barriers to learning.

“Rebuilding a world-class education system will require the new government to work in partnership with unions and employers to
secure a New Deal for children’s education, and it was welcome to hear the Education Secretary’s commitment to doing so.”