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"All children, including those with SEND, will undoubtedly need additional support in the coming weeks and months due to the impact of the pandemic".

"We urge the Government to also consider investing in the recruitment and support of foster carers to make sure that we have the most suitable placements available for all children."

"Councils are now looking after nearly 16,000 more children than they were 10 years ago."

“Unless this funding is made more long-term and less restrictive, more schools may have to close after having spent their budgets on supply teachers, which will only serve to exacerbate growing attainment gaps.”

Baroness Blake responds to a new law which received Royal Assent today, requiring schools to follow new statutory guidance on uniform costs, which will ensure prices are kept down.

Cllr Simon Blackburn, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, responds to the announcement of a new government programme to protect children at risk of exploitation.

Councils called for sex and relationship education (SRE) to be made compulsory in all secondary schools, and were pleased when the Government announced this would happen last year.

Cllr Anntoinette Bramble, Chair of the Local Government Association’s Children and Young People Board, responds to Department for Education figures published today which show the proportion of state-funded schools in England over capacity has fallen.

“The pandemic has led to rising numbers of families facing exceptionally difficult circumstances and councils have worked tirelessly with schools to keep them open and children and their families safe and well, through online and virtual contact and resources, as well as high priority home visits."

Cllr Judith Blake responds to OFSTED's annual report on the overall quality of education and care in England