Whilst most of the press attention has focussed on the structural changes proposed by the White Paper and the Bill, there are also a number of very significant educational reforms. We welcome the important changes to the vocational curriculum, the opportunities for further collaboration between schools and further education institutions, additional support for teachers in dealing with disruptive behaviour and the establishment of new nutritional standards for food and drink served in state schools.

However, whilst the Education and Inspections Bill does offer some concessions on the controversial structural aspects of the reforms, we are still concerned that it does not do sufficient to ensure that reforms help the most economically and educationally disadvantaged in our society.

Local authorities and trust schools
The Bill does not sufficiently recognise the key strategic role which is played by Catholic dioceses, and the need to ensure they are adequately represented in local decision-making. Local authorities will need to work collaboratively with dioceses when exercising their new powers, especially around school organisation.

There is a lack of clarity about some important technical aspects of how Trust schools will work, particularly around land transfer and assets. It will be important that these are resolved satisfactorily.

Admissions and transport
We welcome the Government’s decision to ban schools from interviewing. Whilst banding may work efficiently in some areas, it will not be appropriate in all situations. Additionally, the practical effects of the proposals on school transport are still unclear. In particular, we will be examining the transport offer to ensure it is sufficient to allow children from the poorest Catholic families to continue to attend Catholic schools.

The publication of the Bill is clearly a significant moment for education in this country, and the Bishops will be meeting to further consider their response. Informed by these discussions, the CES will continue to meet with Government ministers and senior officials to ensure that the concerns of the Catholic sector are expressed, and to work to improve the Bill for the good of the whole education sector.

For further information, please contact Peter Walsh, Policy and Briefings Manager, pwalsh@cesew.org.uk, 0207 901 4854