Estyn is an independent body and the Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales is responsible for the inspection of quality and standards in education and training in Wales. An independent review of the implications of our education reform for the future role of Estyn is currently under way.

I published ‘Public Good and a Prosperous Wales’ on 20 June. It set out our policy for all post-compulsory education and training in Wales. I was heartened by the broad support the White Paper received. I intend to publish a further, technical consultation in the new year.

We recognise the value and importance of encouraging strong links between institutions and business. Our broad range of support for innovation and commercialisation in academia and industry helps the flow of knowledge from our universities to the commercial world, creating growth and highly skilled jobs.

The Welsh Government is planning to invest more than £225 million over the next two years through the education improvement grant for schools to support our schools, regional consortia and local authorities to improve educational outcomes for learners in Wales. This represents a significant investment in school improvement in Wales.

Education services have a legal responsibility to report any suspicions of abuse and neglect to social services. Our  statutory guidance, Keeping learners safe, supports them in this work. It covers key areas of safeguarding and information on how children and young people should keep themselves safe, including online.