Campaign launched to “fight” government’s new grammar school plans

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched to challenge the government’s plans to open new grammar schools if Conservatives with the election.

Theresa May wants to remove the ban on new selective institutions, and Justine Greening, the education secretary, announced at the weekend that she will build a system that gives “every child” a chance to attend a grammar school.

However, a group of academics, authors and child psychologists, known as Comprehensive Future, have set up a fundraising bid in order to allow them to work with schools, local authorities and communities who want to avoid selective education.

The group aims to raise £10,000 and is asking for donations through a crowdfunding website.

Melissa Benn, chair of the campaign group, said on its crowdfunding page: “The funds we raise with this campaign will support our work lobbying politicians, raising awareness of the problems with selection, and working with schools, local authorities and communities who want to avoid selective education.

“Time is short: a new education bill may be proposed soon after the election. Comprehensive education works and we need to protect it.

“Together we can protect our children’s education. Please donate to our campaign.”