Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Lauren Edwards and Bridget Phillipson

Monday 19th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Bridget Phillipson]

We are continuing to review initial teacher training, but we want to make sure that, through our curriculum review and its outcomes, children receive stronger education around financial literacy, budgeting and saving. There are some fantastic examples of schools that are already doing this well, but we want that to be the reality for all young people, and I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for his interest in this.

[Lauren Edwards (Rochester and Strood) (Lab)]

T2. There is concern in the hospitality industry that the Government are reviewing funding for some important level 3 and level 4 apprenticeships, such as those used to train chefs. Hospitality is a key means by which we can tackle the challenge for those not in education, employment or training, but to deliver positive long-term change, we must have an apprenticeship system that allows young people to progress, rather than just giving them a foot in the door. May I urge the Minister to continue to support these apprenticeships, which should be a high priority for both our labour market and our economy?

Post-16 Education and Skills Strategy

Debate between Lauren Edwards and Bridget Phillipson

Monday 20th October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Bridget Phillipson]

I recognise the challenge there. It developed over many years, and we as a Government inherited that. We are investing more this year in further education, and there will be £800 million more next year into 16-to-19 education, which will make a big difference. But I recognise the ongoing need to support our brilliant staff working in FE, whether they are teaching staff or support staff. Through our “improving education together” partnership in the Department for Education, we are ensuring that their voices are heard as part of the reforms we are taking forward.

[Lauren Edwards (Rochester and Strood) (Lab)]

I welcome the Secretary of State’s statement and the Government’s continued commitment to promoting vocational and technical education, which is welcome. Can she outline how the White Paper will address the capacity issues that a lot of colleges and sixth forms are experiencing, including in my constituency? That will help us get that NEET rate down.

[Bridget Phillipson]

I recognise the challenge that we have seen, in part because of the big numbers of 16 to 19-year-olds we have coming through the system. That is why we are prioritising investing in 16-to-19 funding for our colleges and ensuring we have more capital available to create the places that are necessary, working with local areas. Running alongside that are our technical colleges, which will drive up standards, spread best practice and be hubs of excellence in their regions working with other colleges.