After meeting with local home-schooling parents earlier this morning, Gregory Stafford MP asked the Secretary of State for Education about the impact of Labour's Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill.
During the debate on the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, Gregory raised concerns regarding its potential impact on home schooling families. He questioned whether the bill, with the current provisions on safeguarding, would impose unfair burdens on home-educating families and alter the relationship between home educators and the state. As the Bill stands these families could face fines and further court action for non-compliance.
Gregory expressed the need for a balanced approach to ensure child protection while also respecting the rights of parents who choose to educate their children at home. After hearing concerns from home-schoolers directly, he highlighted the fact that the Education Secretary is not consulting home educators themselves.
On behalf of home-schoolers, Gregory sought a meeting with Bridget Phillipson and parents so the Government understands their concerns and make adjustments to the bill as needed; an invitation she did not acknowledge.
Gregory later said on social media:
"I have serious concerns about the Government’s Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which threatens parental choice and will undo the progress made under the last Conservative Government.
At a recent meeting, constituents shared their worries about excessive home-schooling rules and more bureaucracy —changes that would make life harder for families, especially those with children who have special educational needs. While everyone supports good safeguarding, it must be evidence-based and proportionate.
When I raised these concerns with the Education Secretary, she failed to address them and refused to engage with those affected.
Families deserve better."
