On the same day that Key Stage One results for Oxfordshire occupied the front page of the Oxford Mail, the Government removed the requirement for Sure Start centres to include a qualified teacher on their staff.

Research shows that early intervention is the best strategy for improving children’s life chances by a long way.

To take away this support would put future KS1 children at even greater risk of under-achievement.

Can county councillor Michael Waine reassure parents that qualified teachers will be retained at all Oxfordshire Sure Start centres to ensure our children the best possible future?

Brenda Williams (secretary) Chris Blakey (executive member) Gawain Little (campaigns officer) Oxfordshire NUT