Fresh wave of grammar schools could be opened under Theresa May to boost education standards
New Prime Minister expected to press ahead with reforms she championed as Shadow Education Secretary 15 years ago
A FRESH wave of grammar schools could be opened by Theresa May to boost education standards.
Tory MPs say the new PM, who went to a grammar, is ready to tear up rules banning further selection in the state system.
Mrs May is expected to press ahead with reforms she championed as Shadow Education Secretary 15 years ago — but which David Cameron blocked.
She will stop short of a return to the pre-1970 system, which saw all pupils take 11-plus exams to determine whether they went to a grammar or secondary modern school.
But she would like to make it easier for new grammars to be set up in communities where parents want them as part of her vow to be a “one nation” PM.
related stories
Six others in Mrs May’s new Cabinet were grammar school educated.
She has already backed a campaign for a new “satellite” grammar school to be opened in her Maidenhead constituency.
Nick Timothy, who she appointed as her chief of staff, is a champion of grammars. Baroness Evans, given the job of Lords leader, is also a fan. Tory MP Graham Brady said of Mrs May: “I know she is sympathetic.
“I hope that she will look at scrapping Labour’s silly prohibition that stops people having new grammar schools where they want them.”