'Baffling' grammar school plans criticised

ANGELA RAYNER

ALLOCATING money for the expansion of grammar schools at a time when other parts of the education sector are facing funding concerns is "baffling", Angela Rayner has claimed.

Plans to introduce more selective education have prompted widespread outcry as campaigners questioned the government's claim that such schools can boost the life chances of disadvantaged pupils.

Ms Rayner, the shadow education secretary, urged ministers to abandon their grammar schools plans and instead focus on a more wide-ranging approach to improving standards.

Leading an opposition day debate on education and social mobility, the MP for Ashton, including Failsworth, said: "The purpose of today's debate is to send a message that members of all parties are committed to an evidence-based approach to education policy."

Concerns have been expressed in recent months about levels of education funding, particularly about the money made available to fund the government's pledge to deliver 30 hours of free childcare amid warnings nurseries could close as they struggle to pay for additional places.

Ms Rayner labelled grammar schools an "ineffective vanity project".

But Education Secretary Justine Greening insisted the expansion of selective education could help boost social mobility.