22/05/2015

500 New Free Schools To Open

The government has pledged to open 500 new free schools.

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has said free schools are empowering parents to demand more for their children on a scale never seen before.

The free schools will equate to 270,000 additional school places in communities across the country. The new schools, on top of the 254 already opened, will meet the growing demand of parents for more excellent local schools with high standards and strong discipline. Research has also shown they are helping to raise standards in neighbouring schools by introducing fresh ideas and competition to local communities.

Nicky Morgan said: "Free schools are at the heart of the government's commitment to deliver real social justice by ensuring all pupils have access to a world class education. This is at the core of our commitment to govern as one nation – creating a country where everyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their high aspirations.

"Half of all free schools are in the most deprived areas of the country, offering a fresh chance for families to break the cycle of disadvantage by providing a quality of schooling never before seen in many communities.

"It is free schools like Dixons Trinity Academy in Bradford, providing an outstanding and innovative education to some of the country's most deprived children. Or schools like ARK Conway Primary Academy, giving children in Acton the best possible start to life. These are the modern engines of social justice."

(CD/JP)

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