Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Department for Education

Oral Answers to Questions

Caroline Ansell Excerpts
Monday 25th April 2016

(8 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Baroness Morgan of Cotes Portrait Nicky Morgan
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I am of course concerned to hear about that. The hon. Gentleman and I have had conversations about academies and schools in his constituency. He can write to me with further details, but, yes, the pupil premium money has to be spent on those most in need and has to get to the frontline.

Caroline Ansell Portrait Caroline Ansell (Eastbourne) (Con)
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Teachers and primary headteachers in my constituency have contacted me about the additional workload that unexpected academisation could place on them. As a teacher, I share that concern. What steps is my right hon. Friend taking to ensure that time, focus, energy and morale are not lost while the White Paper is discussed and that teachers continue to do what they do best—inspire young people and children?

Baroness Morgan of Cotes Portrait Nicky Morgan
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We have set out that schools will have six years, from now until 2022, to become academies. However, the point is that teachers should be doing what they do best, which is teaching in the classroom. Support is available for schools that want to become academies, and the heads and governors of schools will be driving that process.