I will put my heart and soul into making sure that the care your son or daughter or mum or dad receives is the same I would want for my own family.

I think it's appropriate that we simplify, clarify and strengthen, so instead of this nebulousness, we have clarity and authority invested in teachers once more.

There are huge challenges ahead for this country but also huge opportunities. We can make this country stronger and fairer.

The first four months of my life were spent in care, before I was adopted by my wonderful parents - my mum and dad - Ernie and Christine. They went on to adopt my sister, who is profoundly deaf, and invested both of us with a love and support that informs everything I do today.

One of the problems we have is children are not in school long enough in the day and during the year.

Teachers themselves know if there's a colleague who can't keep control or keep the interest of their class, it affects the whole school.

You know, you don't see hospital consultants going on strike, and I don't believe that teachers and headteachers should. It's within their rights, it's a civil right, but I think it is wrong in terms of the reputation of the profession.