Priti Patel, the Conservative Party Parliamentary Candidate for Witham, backs plans to open a new free school in Witham. The new school is being promoted by the Market Field Academy Trust and will cater for pupils with a diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Condition and associated complex educational needs. This will provide much-needed additional local provision in Witham for pupils with special needs. Free schools and the funding for new free schools like this one are opposed by Labour. Priti commented:
“I welcome and fully support plans to open a new, special free school in Witham. This will provide new and enhanced opportunities for children with special needs and is only possible because of the commitment to education from the Conservatives. New schools like these will never be delivered by Labour as they oppose free schools, their manifesto calls investment in free schools like these a waste of money and they would abandon children with special needs by taking away the funding for this school."
"I am proud that the Conservatives are delivering an education system that works for everyone and this free school will help more people in Witham get the best education possible."
“The Conservative’s plan for children with SEN and disabilities is that they achieve their full potential at school and in college, that they find employment and lead happy and fulfilled lives.”
“The Conservatives are committed to delivering more capacity and increased access to good SEN education. This is vital if we are going to meet the educational needs of children diagnosed with autism or learning difficulties in Witham.“
“The Trust’s plans for this school are to provide an enriching, learning environment and a personalised curriculum for each individual pupil to prepare and equip them for adult life. If re-elected on 8 June 2017, I will work closely with the Trust, Essex County Council and the Government to be a strong voice for this school, its pupils and its parents.”