James Cunningham

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Schools Promote Community Cohesion

Jim Cunningham MP (Coventry South) questions Minister on how the Government assists schools to promote community cohesion.

Beverly Hughes MP, Minister for Children, Young People and Families said,
“Good schools, through improvements to their teaching and learning, work to narrow achievement gaps and engagement with the community, have been developing an understanding and appreciation of others amongst their pupils and preparing them for active participation in a diverse society.

“The Education and Inspections Act 2006 placed a new duty to promote community cohesion on the governing body of maintained schools in England.

“Ofstead plan to inspect schools against this duty from September 2008 as part of school inspections”.

Ms Hughes also highlighted the launch of the Schools Linking Network, set up to support schools in linking with other schools and encouraging interaction between pupils from different backgrounds.

Jim Cunningham said “I welcome the efforts made by the Schools to promote social cohesion.

“Schools are the best place to learn about other cultures and backgrounds.

“I welcome all actions taken by the Government to tackle discrimination and conflict in the community and I praise the schools for playing a vital role in this”.