The Prime Minister has made clear that the Government is dedicated to building a Britain that is fit for the future where success is based on merit not privilege, and that education lies at the heart of that mission. A consultation was launched asking for views on a range of proposals aimed at creating an education system that extends opportunity for everyone. This consultation has closed and the contributions are being read and listened to. I look forward to reading the formal response once it is published in due course. 

The Department for Education greatly values the important role Catholic schools play in the education system and that will continue. Faith schools have a strong record of high pupil attainment and are often very popular with parents. I know the Department for Education will continue to work closely with faith schools to promote and support integration and will outline its plans shortly.
 

The reforms to the education system since 2010 have transformed education in this country. I am encouraged that thanks to the hard work of teachers, school standards are rising and there are now more than 1.9 million more children in good or outstanding schools. Every child should have the best possible start in life. However, the demand for school places only continues to grow. I know that this will continue to be a top priority for the Department for Education over this Parliament.