Key Education Announcements from Labour Conference 2024

Bridget Phillipson at the Labour 2024 Conference.

This post is based on information sourced from a Schoolsweek article by Freddie Whittaker and Sam Booth.

The Labour Party Conference in Liverpool has highlighted significant initiatives aimed at improving education. Key topics included reforms to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), efforts to diversify the teaching workforce, and solutions for teacher shortages.

1. Breakfast Clubs Initiative

Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a pilot programme for 750 primary schools to offer free breakfast clubs. This initiative, launching in April 2025, is a  £7 million “early adopter scheme” designed to refine approaches ahead of a nationwide rollout. The broader scheme is part of Labour’s £315 million commitment to combating child poverty and boosting academic performance.

2. SEND Reforms Under Discussion

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledged the challenges facing the current SEND system, expressing the need for a national conversation on comprehensive reforms. The Labour government plans to review SEND and alternative provisions, aiming to deliver early identification of needs and timely support for children and families.

3. Promoting Workforce Inclusivity

Schools Minister Catherine McKinnell stressed the importance of an inclusive education workforce that reflects the diverse student population. The Labour Party aims to break down barriers in teacher recruitment and create a professionalised, inclusive environment for both educators and students.

4. Teacher Recruitment Strategy

Phillipson also addressed Labour’s pledge to recruit 6,500 specialist teachers, focusing on filling vacancies in shortage areas like maths and science. Although current recruitment numbers fall short, Labour is committed to tackling the issue, with plans to improve both recruitment and retention in the coming months.

These initiatives underscore Labour’s commitment to improving education across various fronts, from addressing systemic issues in SEND to ensuring schools have the resources and staff necessary to support all students.

Sources:
Labour conference round-up: SEND, inclusion and breakfast clubs (schoolsweek.co.uk)
Phillipson hints at wider SEND reforms (schoolsweek.co.uk)

Recommended Reading

£10.7 Billion budget for SEN support – A Summary of the NAO Report

£10.7 Billion budget for SEN support – A Summary of the NAO Report

The report highlights that since 2019, there has been no consistent improvement in outcomes for children and young people with SEN. ​ The DfE’s objective to improve educational attainment and post-school outcomes has seen mixed results. ​ In 2021/22, only 69% of those with SEN at key stage 4 were in sustained education, apprenticeship, or employment after leaving 16 to 18 study, compared to 85% for those without SEN. ​

read more
Alternative Provision Conferences 2024/2025

Alternative Provision Conferences 2024/2025

Are you looking to attend an Alternative Provision Conference in 2024/2025? You will find an aggregated list of conferences here that might fit your needs! This list will be updated periodically as more conferences are announced. Is your conference not here? Let us know and we’ll get you added.

read more