Is Labour government’s support for two controversial Conservative-era policies explained by the personalities behind them?
There has been a revolving door of political change since Gove and Gibb were running the DfE. So why do we see policy continuity? Image: iStock.
Embrace of all-must-be-academies drive, and Nick Gibb’s favoured Oak National Academy, provoke questions. Plus: one of England’s most well-known school leaders pops up in an unexpected place.
What lay behind the Labour government’s striking change of position, in taking up a policy which had once been a flagship preoccupation of its Conservative predecessors?
And why is it now lined up in enthusiastic support of another Tory-era innovation, despite Bridget Phillipson having seemed to express a degree of scepticism while in opposition?
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By Warwick Mansell for EDUCATION UNCOVERED
Published: 13 March 2026
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Lots of interesting facts here. It does seem to suggest that the current government may be in office but not in power as far as Education is concerned. United Learning are on track to become quite a powerhouse. It could make sense for all trusts to merge into them. It seems they have had a positive impact on Holland Park School in West London. Although I note the point that there is no democratic link between ULT and the communities, it is arguable whether this has much of an impact anyway. As ever though it’s not clear how students benefit. I assume the Trust is quite centralised and so it is possible that teachers and students like the clear direction. It would be interesting to know what students, families and teachers think. These mergers must have a day to day impact otherwise what is the point of it all? Thank you for the insights.