, Labour’s Shadow Education
Secretary, responding to a new report from the Institute
for Fiscal Studies showing the gap in spending per student
between state and private schools has doubled over the last
decade, said:
“School budgets have been hammered over the last decade which is
holding children back. As state school class sizes have
soared and enriching activities – art, sport, music, drama – have
been cut back, the gap with private schools has grown ever wider.
“Labour’s recovery plan would extend the school day for new
activities for all, and by ending private school’s tax exemptions
we would invest in state schools with 6,500 new teachers, and
careers advice and work experience so every child gets an
excellent education which sets them up for life.
“The Conservatives have allowed young people across the state
sector to be denied opportunities enjoyed by their peers. It’s
time for Ministers to step-up and match Labour’s ambition for all
children.”
End
Notes to editors:
Labour’s National Excellence Plan for education would ensure
every young person leaves school with the skills for work and
skills for life. By ending tax breaks on private schools Labour’s
plan would deliver
· Over 6,500 new
teachers
· Ongoing professional
development and training
· Professional careers
advice
· Two weeks’ worth of
work experience for all
· Targeted programmes to
reengage 16 & 17yr olds who are NEET
