WIREDGOV

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones has set out the details of the agreement reached with Kirsty Williams upon her joining the government as Cabinet Secretary for Education.

In letters between the First Minister and Kirsty Williams, they agreed to work together to bring forward a number of ambitious and innovative proposals. Priorities include:

• More nurses in more settings, through an extended nurse staffing levels law
• 20,000 extra affordable homes
• The introduction of a new ‘Rent to Own’ housing model
• Supporting Welsh agriculture by introducing a small grant scheme
• Putting an end to mental health discrimination
• To consider the recommendations of the Diamond Review, with a view to early implementation, where appropriate
• Funding to establish a floor for future local government settlements.

As Cabinet Secretary for Education, Kirsty Williams is also tasked with reducing infant class sizes, expanding the Pupil Deprivation Grant and raising teaching standards.

The First Minister said:

“This is an open, inclusive and transparent government, which is working with others in Wales’ best interest. As a valued member of this government, Kirsty will play a full role in discussions about the path this Government is taking.

“Kirsty has a key role in driving forward a world-leading curriculum and raising standards across the profession. I look forward to working with Kirsty to continue to improve Wales’ education sector.”

Kirsty Williams said:

“It is an honour to be appointed Cabinet Secretary for Education. This is an amazing opportunity to shape the way we educate our children by developing a world-leading curriculum and raising standards and expectations across the board. For those of us who share a progressive vision for Wales, education is at the heart of how we can move our country forward.

“I will be working closely with my Cabinet colleagues to make sure we have well-qualified, well-motivated youngsters leaving our schools, colleges and universities that will benefit all of society and lead to a stronger, better economy.”