Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Secure Schools (Placement Conditions) Bill - Third Reading

17 May 2024 · 4 other contributors

Opened by Caroline Johnson Con Sleaford and North Hykeham

Justice & CourtsEducation

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Caroline Johnson raised concerns about secure schools (placement conditions) bill - third reading in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Secure 16 to 19 academies are being established as innovative new custody forms for children, trialled based on a 2019 manifesto commitment.
  • The Secure Schools (Placement Conditions) Bill amends the Academies Act 2010 to adjust funding termination periods from seven years to two, reflecting varying sentence lengths.
  • These changes aim to provide greater rehabilitation opportunities and better prepare young people for reintegration into the community.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Caroline Johnson Con Sleaford and North Hykeham

I move that the Bill be read a Third time. Secure 16 to 19 academies are innovative new custody forms for children, trialled as per the 2019 manifesto commitment. They will offer security with education rather than prisons with education. The current secure estate houses around 530 children, with fewer than 12 being female at any time. These schools aim to provide greater rehabilitation opportunities and better prepare young people for community reintegration. The Government have established the academies through existing legislation; this Bill amends the Academies Act 2010. It adjusts funding termination periods from seven years to two, reflects varying sentence lengths, prioritises value for money, and provides more flexibility in ending funding agreements. By supporting the Bill, the House can tailor legislative processes for secure schools, enhancing their impact on children’s lives within the justice system.

Other contributors (4)
  • Therese Coffey

    Supports the Bill as an important update to legislation. Notes her constituency's experience with young offender institutions and the positive impact of educational ethos in such settings. Acknowledges that while housed YOIs may contain individuals who have committed horrific crimes, there is potential for expanding focus on education within secure academies.

  • Seema Malhotra Lab Co-op Feltham and Heston

    Supports the reduction of the minimum notice period for secure schools, highlighting that it is intended to ensure continuity of education provision. Emphasises the importance of effective planning and risk management in implementing secure schools. Discusses concerns about delays and cost overruns in setting up secure schools. Advocates for community engagement and continuous review of the quality and continuity of education provided by these institutions.

  • Caroline Johnson Con Sleaford and North Hykeham

    She supports the Bill, which will extend the educational and holistic approach to helping young people turn their lives around, similar to a secure children’s home in her constituency.

  • Roger Gale Con Herne Bay and Sandwich

    He congratulates the hon. Lady on piloting her Bill through the House without providing specific arguments or concerns.

Get updates like this by email
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy