Lib Dems propose extra-cash for local schools

10.47.20am GMT Wed 11th Feb 2009

Children in Sutton Borough would benefit to the tune of around £7,600,000 from Lib Dem schools' plan according to local Lib Dem MPs Paul Burstow and Tom Brake

'Proposals from the Liberal Democrats for big improvements to schools and teaching would see around £7,600,000 of extra cash for schools in Sutton to boost the education and life chances of thousands of children' says Tom Brake MP. The cash boost would be provided by a £2.5bn Pupil Premium, to ensure that extra funding goes to the pupils with the highest needs.

Paul Burstow added, 'Cutting infant class sizes to private school levels of 15 will give every child the very best chance.

'Freeing schools from the dead hand of Ministerial interference which stifles schools will stop interference with everything that happens in the classroom.'

The plans were launched by Party Leader Nick Clegg and Shadow Secretary of State for Schools, David Laws MP. They launched a call to raise standards in all local schools; closing the gap between children from rich and poor families and ending the era of Government meddling in education.

Lib Dem plans would also ensure schools in Sutton were free to teach children rather than spend their time obeying ministerial orders and trying to achieve government targets.

The Liberal Democrat proposals will be debated at the party's spring conference in Harrogate in March.