To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families what plans he has to extend the academies programme to primary and junior schools; and if he will make a statement. (169289)

There are currently no plans for the Academies programme to extend to schools solely catering for pupils of primary or junior school age. However, the programme does extend to all-age academies and there are currently eight all-through academies (providing education for all ages from three to 19), with a further six in the pipeline.

Sponsors may also enter an academy proposal in any of the competitions now required under the Education and Inspections Act 2006 for most new and replacement primary and secondary schools.