Schools

Since its election in May 2010, the Coalition Government has embarked on a major series of education reforms:

• The Academies Act 2010 has allowed more London schools to opt for Academy status during 2010/11 and paved the way for the establishment of new Free Schools - three of which are set to open in London in September 2011 and several more due to commence in the coming years.
• The Education Bill currently passing through parliament proposes changes for legislation governing schools in areas as diverse as curriculum, discipline, finance and post-16 participation.
• A number of other consultations and discussion papers have been released proposing amendments to schools funding mechanisms; the school admissions code;special educational needs and/or disability (SEND); and the early years foundation stage.

These reforms are expected to significantly alter the role and statutory responsibilities of local authorities with regard to education.  This section outlines some of the work London Councils has been doing in considering the impact on, and responding to Government policy on behalf of, London Boroughs.