Exams and Accountability 2021

David Simmonds Excerpts

Thursday 3rd December 2020 Commons Chamber

[Gavin Williamson]

We have already set out details to support schools during this covid pandemic, not just in the run-up to summer, but during the current term.

[David Simmonds (Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner) (Con)]

It is always easy to criticise, but does my right hon. Friend agree that while, sadly, it appears that the dog ate Labour’s homework on this one, his statement provides headteachers in my constituency and others with certainty? Does he also share my admiration for the work being done by local authority virtual schools so that children who are in the care system are able to access the wide range of support provided by the Government to ensure that they continue to close the gap with their peers who are not in care?

[Gavin Williamson]

My hon. Friend highlights a really important area. The virtual school heads programme for local authorities and schools, has been a real success. We have seen a real impact for those children—some of the most vulnerable children in society, with some of the best attendance for them—by getting that tailored support. It is a scheme that I would deeply love to see rolled out more extensively, because the evidence points to the real impact and difference it makes to young people’s lives.