A SOUTHEND headteacher has given his backing to government plans to set up more grammar schools, claiming they can offer greater choice to parents and benefit low-income families.

Robin Bevan, headteacher of one of Southend’s four grammar schools – Southend High School for Boys – insists he would support the end to a 25-year ban on new grammar schools.

New education secretary Kit Malthouse is drawing up the plans with ministers amid claims Prime Minister Liz Truss wishes to address an apparent desire for more choice for parents when choosing their child’s school.

Mr Bevan says families benefit where there is genuine choice over education, adding grammar schools can “make a valuable contribution” to the education system.

He continued: “Grammar schools are effective and make good sense when they provide challenging and enriching academic education that meets the distinctive needs of highly able pupils from all backgrounds within their area.

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“We are awaiting details of the new government policy on grammar schools.

“In the meantime, the established vision and purpose of Southend High School for Boys will remain constant.

“Grammar schools nationally will welcome having voices of support in Westminster.

“However, at present, the biggest challenges for our nation’s schools are deleterious funding levels alongside the long-term decline in the supply and retention of specialist graduate teachers.”

Tony Cox, leader of the Southend Conservatives, insists Ms Truss’s government must focus on ensuring a top class education is on offer throughout the UK, regardless of whether more grammar schools are needed.

He said: “I am a firm supporter of grammar schools and think we have excellent ones in the city. I am not worried about which type of schools we have as long as they offer first class education.

“I welcome any schools that offer our children a top education and I think parents and families will feel the same. If you have a grammar school system you are then reliant on primary schools equipping the children for grammar schools.

South Essex’s other three grammar schools are Southend High for Boys, Westcliff High for Girls, and Westcliff High for Boys.