Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson visited Purford Green Primary School in Harlow, where they discussed Labour’s education plans. Phillipson pledged to introduce free breakfast clubs and revise the curriculum to nurture children’s creativity. Labour aims to end tax breaks for private schools and invest in teachers instead.
During the visit, Sir Keir Starmer shared his past experience in music, having played four instruments when he was young. Despite limited funding for music and arts at the school, they emphasized the importance of ensuring children’s basic needs are met.
Phillipson highlighted Labour’s commitment to expanding opportunities in music, sport, art, and drama while maintaining high academic standards. She stressed the urgency of implementing universal free breakfast clubs in primary schools.
Labour plans to phase out the non-dom tax status to finance these education policies. Phillipson assured that Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves is exploring alternative funding methods to ensure sustainability and effectiveness.