Brash welcomed the Secretary of State's announcement about post-16 qualification reform and urged for proper payment to teachers.

Abrahams inquired about measures to improve lives for children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Gethins questioned the Labour Government's stance on opportunities for young people, particularly regarding freedom of movement and Erasmus apprenticeships affected by previous Tory policies.

Asked if the shadow Education Secretary accepts IFS report that highlights educational inequalities persisting, especially for children on free school meals, ethnic minority backgrounds, and disabled children.

Congratulated the Deputy Speaker and highlighted staff shortages in Scottish highland secondary schools affecting teaching quality and resorting to online learning. Raised concerns about educational delivery north of border.

Acknowledged success in positive destinations for children and students after school but criticised Tory austerity and Brexit impact on freedom of movement, estimating £140 billion cost to the UK.

Asked if he recognises the low teacher retention rate over the last parliament with a third leaving within five years despite interesting figures on overall numbers.

The Labour Government will continue its commitment to education by providing free breakfast clubs, new nursery places, mental health support, more teachers, a new curriculum, further education opportunities, and measures against youth violence. The speaker highlights the funding crisis for maintained nurseries, special educational needs support, care-experienced people, and the need to revise the schools funding formula to better serve disadvantaged areas.

Welcomes measures such as a children’s wellbeing Bill but highlights the need for better mental health support in schools, including full-time dedicated practitioners. Emphasises the impact of poverty and inadequate benefits on child education and calls for an end to the two-child cap on benefits to lift 300,000 children out of poverty. Advocates for free school meals for all children in poverty, irrespective of age. Highlights deepening inequalities within the education system due to erosion of the pupil premium's value and urges continuation of tutoring funding.

Expresses concern about applying VAT on independent schools fees, noting it will make private education less affordable for parents in Mid Dunbartonshire. Highlights potential additional costs to the state if these families are forced into the public sector.

Supports the argument against VAT on independent school fees, pointing out that in many areas like her constituency of Buckinghamshire, state schools are already oversubscribed. Suggests this will leave parents unable to find places for their children once they can no longer afford private education.

As a new MP from Southampton Itchen, Darren Paffey expresses gratitude towards his constituents and the opportunity to serve. He discusses his personal background in foster care and adoption, emphasising the importance of public services such as NHS staff, social workers, and teachers that shaped him. Paffey highlights his previous role as cabinet member for children’s services in Southampton where he focused on supporting care-experienced young people, a cause he plans to continue championing in Parliament. He also pays tribute to his predecessor Royston Smith and former leader John Denham. Paffey speaks about the challenges and potential of Southampton Itchen, including high child poverty levels and the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

Ms Dyke welcomed the opportunity to discuss education and opportunity, highlighting that many children in her constituency are missing out on adequate schooling due to cuts by the Conservative Government. She pointed out that demand for Education, Health and Care Plans has tripled since COVID, with only half of these plans being issued within the statutory 20-week timeframe. The local authority high-needs budget deficit is estimated at £2.3 billion and set to rise to £3.6 billion by 2025. She advocated for additional funding for local authorities to reduce the financial burden on schools regarding EHCPs, emphasising the urgent need to address children's suffering from lack of education. Ms Dyke also mentioned a case where a child missed crucial months of school due to an unreviewed EHCP and discussed the challenge of special school capacity issues. She concluded by suggesting a dedicated national body for SEND to ensure tailored support for children with complex needs.

Welcomed the Secretary of State’s comments on children with special educational needs, raised concerns about lack of available school spaces for these children in her constituency. She mentioned schools like Cambridge Park academy and Humberston Park school that struggle to meet local demand due to capacity issues, leading to out-of-area placements which add stress to families and children. She urged the Secretary of State's team to be more flexible regarding education pathways for young people with special educational needs beyond traditional academic routes, focusing on supporting their maximum potential. On state-maintained nurseries, she highlighted funding challenges faced by local nursery schools in her constituency and requested urgent attention. She also supported BTec qualifications as a valuable alternative to strict academic paths, enabling students to explore various sectors and industries while offering flexibility alongside other academic qualifications such as A-levels and apprenticeships. Furthermore, she commended Franklin sixth form college for its success in providing opportunities through BTecs and emphasised the importance of swiftly implementing plans for BTecs to ensure timely course advertisement and student information before 2025 terms. She also discussed her support for academisation for Franklin college to enable it to better serve local schools, academies, employers, and growing industries, requesting Government advice on advancing this process.

Brandreth outlined the richness and diversity of her constituency, Chester South and Eddisbury. She praised educational institutions like the University of Chester and local schools while expressing concern over the Government's current plans that may impact students with special education needs. Additionally, she mentioned cultural landmarks such as Peckforton Castle and highlighted its historical significance regarding civil weddings in England.

Congratulates the deputy speaker and hon. member for Chester South, pays tribute to Amanda Solloway and Margaret Beckett; describes Derby's diverse communities and landmarks such as River Derwent, Royal Derby hospital, Rolls-Royce, and Pride Park stadium. Emphasises commitment to education, children’s wellbeing Bill, and rail manufacturing; highlights the loss of jobs in Alstom and calls for action on new train orders.

I am grateful to deliver my maiden speech focusing on education, higher learning and local issues in Surrey Heath. I praise the work of teachers and schools in raising educational standards and driving opportunity for social mobility and economic prosperity. The constituency is also home to unique landscapes, military heritage including the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, and cultural figures such as Sir Arthur Sullivan and Dr Brian May. There are infrastructure challenges regarding roads and rail that require significant investment, alongside healthcare needs including rebuilding RAAC-affected hospitals like Frimley Park hospital. We need a fair deal for young people with affordable homes and training opportunities to address inequalities in life expectancy and opportunities.

It is great to see you in your place, Madam Deputy Speaker—a strong Yorkshirewoman, no less, which is exactly what we need in the Chair. I thank the hon. Member for Surrey Heath (Dr Pinkerton) for his excellent maiden speech. He has done his constituents proud, and it was great to hear from him, and, indeed, from all who have made maiden speeches today. The right hon. Member for East Hampshire (Damian Hinds) mentioned the literacy hour. As a child, I was locked out of education due to dyslexia, ADHD, dyspraxia, and other medical needs, but the literacy hour had a profound impact on me when I was seven and eight years old. It provided a changing model that suited my learning style perfectly, which led me to achieve an A in English literature at GCSE level against all odds. I have been chairing the all-party parliamentary group for special educational needs and disabilities because I think it important for us to give young people that opportunity. The narrowing of the curriculum over the last 14 years horrifies me. Education is one of the main ways to create opportunities in our communities, so it is excellent that we are having this debate so early in the new Parliament, and it is good to hear from my colleagues on the Government Front Bench about the positive steps they are taking to create an education system that is fit for all. I want to focus my comments on provision for special educational needs and disabilities, and on how we can create opportunities for everyone in the education system.

It is no secret that the new Government have inherited a SEND system in crisis, underfunded, under-resourced and understaffed. Estimates from f40 suggest that the total level of underfunding in the last Parliament was £4.6 billion, with the last Government promising only a fraction of the expenditure needed to bridge the gap. When that is combined with the chronic underfunding of local authorities, it is easy to see why there are so many stories about authorities that have been unable to meet their statutory obligations. In only 1.7% of cases has a tribunal found in a local authority’s favour, which demonstrates both the tenacity needed by parents and the endemic problems facing too many young people. A key task for the new Government will be to rebuild the infrastructure for early years intervention that we lost over the last 14 years. The cuts to Sure Start have been dramatic, but we also need more health visitors out in the community. Early interventions are so important because they can change the life course of a child and open opportunities that can be cut off if the right support is not in place. We need to treat people as people and start from the premise that whatever their need or disability, they are entitled to the same quality of education and opportunities as everyone else.

Expresses gratitude to constituents for sending him to the House, pays tribute to predecessors, highlights Solihill's economic activity including businesses like Gymshark, praises local council's housing policy, acknowledges areas of deprivation. Discusses his professional background as a lawyer, doctor, and former soldier. Promises to contribute on health and social care, rule of law, military covenant, early years agenda, and special educational needs provision.

Thanked the hon. Member for Solihull West and Shirley for his maiden speech, welcomed the Madam Deputy Speaker, and thanked the constituents of Harlow. Emphasised the importance of community service in the constituency, mentioning previous MPs who have championed for Harlow. Paid tribute to Stan Newens, a mentor figure, and discussed his background working as a secondary school maths teacher and charity work supporting homeless people and unpaid carers. Highlighted the significance of young carers, sharing an anecdote about a student named George who was a young carer and noted that 72% of schools claim to have no young carers despite predictions of more than 10,000 young carers in Essex alone.

Welcomed the Ministers present and thanked those who gave maiden speeches. Emphasised the importance of education for young people, highlighting opportunities in employment, further education, apprenticeships, and work experience. Noted funding cuts affecting Northern Ireland's student numbers and university teaching grants, as well as planned cuts to further education colleges. Stressed the need for increased opportunities through apprenticeships across various industries.

I am the first of the new Welsh MPs to make my maiden speech, and I represent Monmouthshire, a beautiful county with a rich history. My constituency is known for its strong agricultural heritage, innovative technology corridor, and vibrant tourism industry. As a former chief executive of Women’s Equality Network Wales, I pledge to work towards gender equality in Parliament and address the inequalities faced by women. Additionally, I will focus on supporting economic growth, reducing household bills, promoting environmental stewardship, and championing local charities and community groups.

Alex Sobel discusses the importance of creative education, highlighting MAP’s role in providing alternative provision for young people. He advocates for funding similar to mainstream provision and welcomes Labour’s plans to review the curriculum. He also addresses issues around 16 to 19 places in Leeds and calls for additional vocational places needed. Sobel emphasises the need for sports to be at the heart of decision making, with new funding for community coaching and equipment. Additionally, he highlights the importance of improving music education by offering enrichment in schools.

Shanker thanked his colleagues and supporters for their support, expressed pride in representing Derby South, highlighted the constituency's rich political history, and emphasised the importance of social mobility, rail industry, and cultural opportunities. He also discussed plans to establish Great British Railways and an independent football regulator.

Vaughan pays tribute to his predecessors and expresses gratitude for community support. He highlights the cultural vibrancy of Folkestone and Hythe but also points out significant challenges, including deprivation, unaffordable housing, sewage pollution, and human trafficking. Vaughan supports Labour’s devolution plans as a solution for coastal communities' economic growth and regional development.

Welcomed the opportunity to make his maiden speech, highlighting the strong Labour presence in Kent. He welcomed the new team of Education Ministers and their promise of investment and additional teachers for schools. Emphasised the importance of public health and supported measures to prevent smoking among young people due to its significant cost burden on healthcare. Acknowledged Dartford's long-standing tradition of electing MPs aligned with the Government, noting the town's historical significance and cultural diversity. Called for action on affordability in housing developments and infrastructure investment in new communities like Ebbsfleet. Raised concerns about traffic congestion and road safety issues, including a collapsed Galley Hill Road near Swanscombe. Stressed the importance of local sports clubs and theatres as community anchors.

I congratulate the newly elected Deputy Speaker and Welsh First Minister. I pay tribute to my predecessors Craig Williams and Simon Baynes, highlighting their work in the community. My constituency has a rich industrial heritage, with significant contributions from Air Products, Monsanto, Chirk's chocolate production history, Robert Owen's birthplace, and environmental initiatives like the Centre for Alternative Technology. A key priority is the creation of Great British Energy to increase renewables. I advocate banning fire and rehire practices and zero-hours contracts. The education system faces crises due to teacher vacancies and underfunding, leading to high teacher turnover. My personal background inspired my commitment to teaching and ensuring no child in a wealthy country goes hungry. I also express gratitude for support during my mother's final days.

I am honoured to be the first Labour and female MP for Aylesbury, a constituency with diverse communities and rich historical significance. I pay tribute to my predecessor Rob Butler and extend condolences to Steve Witherden on his mother’s passing. My priorities include improving healthcare, focusing on education for all children, supporting small businesses, and addressing global humanitarian issues. The area faces significant challenges such as high levels of child poverty and mental health crises. I will work towards ensuring equitable opportunities for my constituents, particularly in critical areas like mental health support and special educational needs.

In her speech, Emily Darlington pays tribute to her family history and the importance of education. She highlights the innovation in Milton Keynes, including robotics, driverless technology, AI, and the Open University's role in distance learning. She discusses the city's approach to building communities and celebrating diversity through various cultural events. Furthermore, she emphasises the importance of addressing societal issues such as care for vulnerable individuals and preventing knife crime. Darlington mentions her local council’s efforts in reducing rough sleeping and supporting carers while calling for national support to achieve greater change.

Congratulated fellow MPs on their maiden speeches and highlighted the diversity of his constituency, including urban areas in Peterborough, semi-urban towns like Yaxley, smaller villages, a strong military tradition, and a significant farming community. He emphasised the challenges faced by farmers and his commitment to supporting sustainable practices. Referring to the debate's theme of education, he discussed his personal experience during the pandemic when budget cuts forced the closure of his school’s sixth form, leading him to become politically engaged. Carling stressed the importance of evidence-based decision-making in politics and expressed a desire to contribute to the Government’s agenda to revitalise schools while championing lifelong learning initiatives such as Anglia Ruskin University Peterborough. He also acknowledged issues like affordable housing, public transport, and dental services in his constituency.

I congratulate the Members who made maiden speeches and thank those who supported my candidacy. I pay tribute to my predecessor Mhairi Black and former MP Douglas Alexander, while expressing my ambition for my constituency despite my size. Without good education, opportunities are reduced, emphasising the need for fair wages and secure employment rights. My values stem from my grandad's experiences as a Polish migrant and my industrial heritage. The new Labour Government's commitment to improving lives is crucial, especially regarding workers' rights and dignity in work. Highlighting community efforts like Thorn Athletic and the West End Growing Grounds Association showcases local resilience and pursuit of equality and justice. I will fight for constituents' interests every day.

Welcomes the Secretary of State and Ministers to their positions, expressing gratitude for the residents of Gravesham who have put faith in her. Praises Adam Holloway's dedication and service to his constituents. Highlights the rich history and diversity of Gravesham, including its industrial heritage and religious institutions. Advocates for Labour’s plan for education reform, emphasising the need for a curriculum that prepares young people for life with practical skills and socialisation. Supports the proposed modernisation of the curriculum, particularly focusing on science education to inspire future scientists. Criticises the current system's excessive focus on testing and Ofsted requirements at the expense of children’s wellbeing.

Swallow, a new Labour MP for Bracknell, highlighted the importance of education and special educational needs provision. He praised his predecessor's work on malaria eradication and championed for special educational needs advocacy. Acknowledging the 75th anniversary of Bracknell as a new town, he emphasised the need for social housing solutions, reflecting on the historical context of Labour governments establishing new towns to address housing crises. Swallow discussed the importance of community planning, transport infrastructure, and local industry development in his constituency, including Sandhurst and Crowthorne. He welcomed the Education Secretary’s commitment to breaking down barriers to educational opportunities and announced a review of technical qualifications funding. Concerned about teacher workload and child poverty, he stressed the urgent need for reform in special educational needs (SEND) provision, citing an example of a 13-year-old boy named Fred who is awaiting placement in a suitable school due to inadequate support systems.

Carns expressed gratitude towards his predecessor Steve McCabe for his long-standing service to Birmingham Selly Oak. He mentioned the importance of volunteers in his constituency and their support during elections. The MP highlighted the diverse nature of Selly Oak, including its leafy suburbs and council estates, emphasising the need for regeneration efforts like those planned for Druids Heath. Carns also discussed the economic potential of Selly Oak's medical university and hospitals, advocating for investment in the NHS. He addressed concerns about threatening behaviour in politics while praising fellow MPs for their dedication to public service.

Congratulated the Deputy Speaker and Secretary of State; thanked his family, friends, and constituents for their support. Paid tribute to Rugby’s history and innovation, including its contributions to sport, science, and technology. Emphasised the importance of partnership between different sectors in unleashing potential and highlighted local education initiatives such as Skills England.

Praised other Members for their maiden speeches; encouraged honesty about personal journeys to inspire children. Highlighted the importance of communication and teamwork in politics, especially on Government Benches.

Clarified an intervention made by another Member regarding attribution.

Welcomes new Members, pays tribute to maiden speakers, emphasises the Labour Government's commitment to education for all children. She mentions delivering more primary school-based nurseries and free breakfast clubs in every primary school to improve attainment and behaviour. Supports a broad and balanced curriculum with an expert-led review. Discusses mental health support and improved planning for schools. Announces Skills England to better match post-16 education to economic needs.