Sir Julian Lewis: May I invite the Secretary of State to expand a bit on her vision of what happens at the end of a SEND [Special educational needs and disabilities] child’s education? She mentioned the idea of independence – and, presumably, socialisation – to advance in society. In what way will her Department try to shape the course to enable children born with a disadvantage to function productively in the real world at the end of the process?

[The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson): The right hon. Gentleman is right about the transition to adulthood and ensuring that our children are well prepared for what comes next as they move through the school system and into adult life. Many further education colleges and specialist settings already do that incredibly well, but it is variable. We want to deliver higher standards and greater opportunities for young people – particularly those with SEND – through supported internships and options for work placements, and ensure that they can live independent lives as much as possible.]