Continuation of marketisation in education

From 2015 onwards, the Conservative government continued to support and increase levels of marketisation, diversity, selection, and choice in the education system.

Encouragement of free schools

The Conservative government from 2015 actively encouraged the setting up of more free schools. Parents were encouraged to establish free schools, often partnering with private companies.

Theresa May's plans for new grammar schools

In 2016, Prime Minister Theresa May announced plans for a new generation of grammar schools. May argued these schools would be 'engines of social mobility' for bright working-class children.

Resistance and outcome of grammar school plans

Theresa May faced widespread resistance to her plans for new grammar schools.

Opposition to the plans

• Internal party resistance - There was resistance from members of her own Conservative Party.
• Opposition from other parties - Opposition also came from other political parties.

By summer 2017, the plans for new grammar schools were effectively dropped from Conservative education policies.