Education Recovery

Peter Gibson Excerpts

Tuesday 29th June 2021 Commons Chamber

[Peter Gibson (Darlington) (Con)]

Schools across the country have faced stark challenges over the last 15 months and once again, I put on record my thanks to the headteachers, teachers, support staff and parents in Darlington.

I am proud of the Government’s work to help disadvantaged students in the north-east, whom we know have been among the hardest hit. From talking to teachers and governors throughout the last 15 months, I know the challenges they have faced and every day, I am conscious that we must do all we can to support them. I am therefore glad that the Government are providing funding in the form of the national tutoring programme among other investments.

On top of that, the Department for Education has announced the allocation of £483 million of investment for the condition improvement fund. Those funds will benefit Rydal Academy, Mowden Infant School and Corporation Road Community Primary School in my constituency.

As the Government consider their response to the Education Committee’s recent excellent report, I ask the Minister to pay particular attention to the needs of the Gypsy, Romany and Traveller community alongside those of white working-class children.

I am proud to support the Government today as they invest in education recovery for pupils across the country.

[Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Nigel Evans)]

Thank you very much. Earlier than we thought, we have the winding-up speeches. I call Peter Kyle.