Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps she is taking to help ensure a smooth transition of schools from the Ortu Federation to the Mossbourne Federation in the South Basildon and East Thurrock constituency.

Departmental officials have worked closely with the Ortu Federation and Mossbourne Federation since the decision was taken to transfer the schools.

As well as supporting both trusts to complete the necessary legal and financial processes, the department has agreed a funding package that will enable significant capital investment in the school buildings.

Mossbourne Federation has provided leadership support in the schools since the start of the year and is well placed to ensure pupils at these three schools achieve and thrive.