Secretary of State Speech at CST

The Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson spoke last week at the Confederation of School Trusts (CST) conference.

She spoke at length to set out core tenets of the schools white paper which is due to be published later this term. The white paper will, the government hopes, lay the path for national renewal for schools. During her speech she said:

“The best schools prepare children not just for work but for life. Not just achieving but thriving too. The best schools understand their role in shaping not just the workers of tomorrow, but the citizens of tomorrow, the society of tomorrow. These are mutual, reinforcing goals. The sports teams, the debate clubs, the visits to the museum, the trips to the theatre. They don’t take away from academic achievement; they add to it. But they have been optional extras for too long. Nice to haves for those lucky enough to get them. Now they must become a fundamental part of the education of every child.”

The DAG Conference, ‘Inspirational Governance – more than just metrics’ will examine this theme stressing the importance of pupils enjoying school, with an emphasis on the whole child and the role governance has to play in creating cultural capital, supporting wellbeing and encouraging children to view school as a fun place they want to be.

The DAG Conference will take place on Thursday 14^th May 4.30pm at Exeter Racecourse – save the date and register your interest at [email protected].  This in person conference will provide an opportunity for members to be part of a social and learning evening, with keynote speakers and time to network, enjoy a buffet and a short musical event by Devon pupils. All designed to support members to consider how and why they should support their schools to provide enriching life experiences to expand education from narrow to broad.