Commenting after Andy Burnham was confirmed as the new Prime Minister, Paul Whiteman general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

“We congratulate Andy Burnham on becoming Prime Minister.

“His welcome commitment outside Downing Street to ‘investing in people’s success’ must start in childhood and in our schools.

“It must mean more investment and support in schools, their leaders and their staff. Despite the progress that has been made during the first two years of this Labour government when it comes to funding, pay and action on poverty, too many schools are still struggling to deliver the support children deserve.

“We welcome the new PM’s recognition that university is not for everyone, and that all young people need support to succeed. It’s important that any further changes to vocational options and routes are delivered in collaboration with schools and colleges, and build upon the changes being implemented as a result of the curriculum and assessment review.

“Education is so important for children’s happiness, learning and life chances, and it must be prioritised by the new PM and across government from day one of his premiership.”