Nursery World - Prime Minister commits to opening 500 more free schools

A further 500 free schools would open in the next five years under a Conservative Government.

Minister David Cameron is today expected to announce plans to create an extra 270,000 school places in free schools by 2020 if the Tories win the general election in May.

It is thought he will make the announcement during a speech in London, in which he will reveal that the Government has approved 49 new free schools under Wave 8 of the programme.

The move brings the total number of free schools to more than 400, providing more than 230,000 school places.

The Prime Minister will say, 'Delivering the best schools and skills for young people is a crucial part of our long-term economic plan to secure a better future for Britain. Free schools set up by teachers, parents and community groups are not only outperforming other schools, but they are raising the performance of those around them, meaning more opportunities for children to learn the skills they need to get on in life.

'These new schools are an important part of our plan to improve education by raising standards and restoring discipline so our children can compete with the world's best and enjoy a better future.'

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