The future looks bright

THE future is looking bright for Oldham school pupils - thanks to a 12-month project to help every child reach their full potential.

An Education and Skills Commission, chaired by former Education Secretary Estelle Morris, will be launched at Stoneleigh Academy in Derker today and will meet regularly to examine progress, identify underachievement and build on existing work.

Council leader Jim McMahon said: “A good education is the essential foundation of a fair society and — as the national education system and the regional jobs market continue to undergo great change — we must ensure we have the right skills and knowledge, focus and vision to inspire and enable all children to fulfil their potential.

“We know from the experiences of others that commissions like this can be very effective catalysts for positive change. Setting it up now is about showing the leadership necessary to ensure all partners take part. Our aim is to define a new Oldham education standard, so young people can meet the challenges they will face in future years.”

Baroness Morris will be supported by a wider group of commissioners from local schols and colleges and will take evidence from young people, headteachers, governors and representatives from the business and cultural sectors.

Initial findings will be given next January, with a final report a year from now.

Visit www.oldham.gov.uk/educationcommission to find out more