This week, Andy Burnham appointed his new cabinet after taking office as Prime Minister following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation. Lucy Powell MP has been appointed as the Secretary of State for Education. The former Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson MP remains in cabinet as Women and Equalities Minister. 

Lucy Powell has been the MP for Manchester Central since 2012 and has made education and early years a priority throughout her parliamentary career. Powell was previously the Shadow Education Secretary and Shadow Minister for Education, a member of the Education Select Committee and chaired the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for nursery schools, nursery and reception classes. It has not yet been announced who will serve as the junior minister responsible for Early Years.  

Ka Lai Brightley-Hodges, Head of Coram PACEY has written to the new Secretary of State to welcome her into the role and set out the urgent need to address the challenges facing registered childminders and nannies.  

Coram PACEY looks forward to working with the new Secretary of State for Education to champion the voices of our members and secure the changes needed to ensure registered childminders and nannies can continue providing high-quality, flexible care that supports children and families.