Prime Minister redoubles commitment to free schools

Prime Minister David Cameron has today reaffirmed his commitment to create 500 new free schools over the course of the next five years – announcing both the first tranche to be approved this parliament and his intention to deliver two waves of free schools each year until 2020.

The move, envisaged as a means of offering a more competitive education landscape, will generate 270,000 new school places nationwide.

Formal approval has been given for the first 18 projects, which will account for a further 9,000 places. These schemes will join the 252 free schools already in operation and the 52 new facilities opening to pupils for the first time this week.

Free schools are a relatively new initiative spearheaded by parents, teachers, charities, academy sponsors and existing facilities in response to growing demand for education infrastructure to better meet the needs of the local community – by introducing additional places and bettering education standards.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “As a ‘one nation’ government we are clear that every family should have access to a great local school and every child should get the very best education – and free schools are a crucial part of that aim. The aim of this policy is crystal clear – to increase the number of good and outstanding school places so that more parents have the security of knowing their child is getting a great education.

“Today’s announcement shows that we will not waver in pressing ahead with our plans to open 500 more of these innovative and exciting schools over the next 5 years, creating 270,000 places, delivering an excellent education and giving parents across the country real choice for their children.”

Education Secretary Nicky Morgan said: “The free schools programme has sent out the message loud and clear, that parents should never have to settle for anything less than the best for their child. Right across the country, these innovative, community led schools are helping to fulfil our ‘one nation’ commitment to educational excellence for every child.

“We know that free schools don’t just give parents greater choice, they also force existing schools to up their game. Today’s news sends a clear message that we are committed to extending this unprecedented level of choice to more parents than ever before.”

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