David Cameron pledges to open more free schools if Conservative win the election

The video discusses the role of free schools in the UK, particularly in Hackney, where they aim to teach discipline and self-esteem through activities like boxing. These schools are state-funded but independently run, and the government plans to expand them significantly. The initiative aims to raise educational standards and close the attainment gap. However, there is skepticism about its effectiveness, with critics questioning the allocation of funds and the political motives behind the expansion. The first GCSE results from these schools will be a crucial test of their success.

What is one of the main purposes of free schools as mentioned in the video?

• To replace traditional schools entirely

• To focus solely on sports education

• To teach discipline and self-esteem through unique methods

• To provide free meals to students

What percentage of existing free schools are special schools or alternative provisions?

• 30%

• 25%

• 17%

• 10%

What is the government's broader goal for education in the UK?

• To make the UK the best place to learn arts and humanities

• To ensure every child has access to a computer

• To make the UK the best place to learn maths, science, and computing

• To eliminate all private schools

What is a major concern critics have about the free schools program?

• It is too expensive

• It focuses too much on sports

• It lacks evidence of success from other countries

• It only benefits privileged children

What do critics suggest should be the focus instead of expanding free schools?

• Improving the quality of teaching and leadership

• Building more school facilities

• Increasing the number of private schools

• Reducing the number of students per class