Department for Education

The Department for Education is responsible for education, children’s services, higher and further education policy, apprenticeships and wider skills in England, and equalities. They work to achieve a highly educated society in which opportunity is equal for all, no matter what their background or family circumstances.

The Department for Education are responsible for:

• teaching and learning for children in the early years and in primary schools
• teaching and learning for young people under the age of 19 years in secondary schools and in further education
• supporting professionals who work with children and young people
• helping disadvantaged children and young people to achieve more
• making sure that local services protect and support children

The Department for Education's priorities are:

• safety and wellbeing: all children and young people are protected from harm and vulnerable children are supported to succeed with opportunities as good as those for any other child.
• educational excellence everywhere: every child and young person can access high-quality provision, achieving to the best of his or her ability regardless of location, attainment and background.
• prepared for adult life: all 19-year-olds complete school or college with the skills and character to contribute to the UK’s society and economy and are able to access high-quality work or study options.