The value of attending university
The Education Secretary delivered a speech to the conference, outlining his ambition to not only protect and build on the UK’s position as a world leader in higher education.
The Education Secretary delivered a speech to the conference, outlining his ambition to not only protect and build on the UK’s position as a world leader in higher education.
It is a testament to our world-leading universities that so many students from abroad want to study here. The important contribution international students make to our country and universities is both cultural and economic. Their presence benefits Britain, which is why we’ve increased the period of time these students can remain in the UK after their studies.
Today’s blog looks at the government’s plans to open up to 30 new free schools, the publication of international data on education policy and performance, plus work underway by the Office for Students (OfS) to improve university access.
Our school uniform policy is clear that a school must have regard to its obligations under equalities legislation.
The Prime Minister has announced a generous three-year funding settlement for schools. Our job now is to support every school in the country to deliver the quality of education for children of all backgrounds, so that they’re given the grounding they need to make the most of their lives.
Our guidance states that uniform items should be easily available for parents to purchase and schools should keep compulsory branded items to a minimum. The guidance is clear that schools should avoid single-supplier contracts, but where schools do choose to enter into such contracts, they should ensure these are subject to a regular competitive tendering process to ensure value for parents.
Tackling disadvantage will always be a priority for this government. The gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers has narrowed since 2011, and 85% of children are now in good or outstanding schools compared to just 66% in 2010.
We have empowered them to make that judgment. We have empowered them to make sure that they protect the interests of all the children in that school. That’s what I will always and consistently do.
This £14billion funding increase – the largest cash boost in a generation - means our schools can continue to raise standards and build an education system that boosts productivity, improves social mobility and equips children with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the bright future that lies ahead.
Yesterday, Thursday 29 August, the Education Secretary Gavin Williamson held his first meeting with representatives from the major teaching unions.
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