Michael Gove has been forced to defend rushing legislation revolutionising the schools system through parliament after the government admitted only 153 schools had applied to become academies.
Research undermining the value of 'free schools' backed by the new coalition government has brought Michael Gove's policy into question.
Education secretary Michael Gove has reiterated his determination to push through his academy programme.
The decision to move Lord Adonis from his education brief over to transport had prompted concerns about how the direction of school reform.
Despite a projected tight round of public spending, the chancellor is expected to make extra money available to tackle failing schools.
The government wants the most successful schools to help those that are failing, claiming such partnerships can produce "huge leaps" in results at the least successful schools.
England is to get its first fully selective academy, catering for performing arts students.
David Cameron has encouraged parents to set up their own schools, claiming this would raise standards.
The government today encouraged more universities to work with schools in a bid to widen participation in higher education.
The government should be cautious about relying on private money to fund new school building projects, a committee of MPs has warned.
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