The resignation of Sir Keir Starmer as Prime Minister marks another significant moment in UK politics and raises important questions for the education sector.

While schools, colleges and trusts are unlikely to see immediate changes, leadership transitions often create uncertainty around future funding, reform programmes and capital investment priorities. Starmer will remain in post until Labour selects a successor, with Andy Burnham widely viewed as the frontrunner to take over leadership of both the Labour Party and the country.

For education leaders, the key question is not whether government changes, but whether government priorities change.

What Happens Next?

The current Labour government retains a substantial parliamentary majority, meaning there is no requirement for a General Election. Instead, Labour members and MPs will choose a new leader over the summer, with a new Prime Minister expected before Parliament returns in September.

In the short term, schools can expect continuity. Existing funding commitments, capital projects and school rebuilding programmes are unlikely to be cancelled. However, major policy announcements and future spending decisions may be delayed while a new administration establishes its priorities.

The Areas School Leaders Should Watch Closely

SEND Reform

One of the most significant education developments currently underway is the government’s SEND White Paper, “Every Child Achieving and Thriving”. The proposals include substantial changes to the way support is delivered and how Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) operate.

Any new Prime Minister will need to decide whether to continue the reforms as planned, modify them or introduce an alternative approach.

For school leaders already grappling with rising SEND demand, staffing pressures and funding challenges, policy certainty will be critical.

School Funding

Education unions have already expressed concerns regarding school funding pressures, teacher workload and the resources available to deliver reform effectively. Recent comments from teaching union leaders suggest there is appetite within the profession for greater investment in schools and a review of current education priorities.

A leadership transition may create opportunities for a new government to reset its relationship with the profession.

Capital Investment

Despite political uncertainty, demand for modern learning environments remains strong. Many schools continue to face challenges around ageing estates, capacity pressures, inclusion requirements and the need to create spaces that support wellbeing and engagement.

Investment in SEND provision, school-based nurseries, STEM facilities and flexible learning environments is likely to remain a priority regardless of who occupies Number 10.

What Might Andy Burnham’s Education Agenda Look Like?

Although Andy Burnham has not yet published a detailed education manifesto as part of any leadership campaign, his political track record offers some clues about the direction he could take.

Prediction 1: Greater Focus on Local Decision-Making

Burnham has consistently championed devolution and local leadership throughout his time as Mayor of Greater Manchester.

If this philosophy extends into education policy, schools may see greater decision-making powers devolved to regions, combined authorities and local partnerships. This could potentially create more flexibility around skills development, SEND provision and post-16 education.

Prediction 2: Increased Investment in Technical Education

One of Burnham’s recurring themes has been creating stronger links between education, skills and economic growth.

School leaders could therefore expect increased emphasis on:

• Technical education pathways
• Apprenticeships
• Employer engagement
• STEM provision
• Career-focused learning environments
• Further Education investment

This would align with wider economic ambitions around productivity and regional growth.

Prediction 3: A More Inclusive SEND Strategy

Burnham has frequently positioned himself as a public services reformer focused on social inclusion.

Should he become Prime Minister, there may be greater emphasis on early intervention, integrated services and strengthening local SEND provision rather than relying heavily on specialist placements and tribunals.

This could create opportunities for schools that have invested in inclusive environments, sensory spaces and specialist support provision.

Prediction 4: Reassessment of Academisation

Recent commentary from education unions suggests there may be pressure on a Burnham-led government to revisit Labour’s current stance on academisation. Some union leaders have already argued that the existing policy continues elements of previous government reforms and have called for a different approach under new leadership.

While any significant structural change would take years to implement, MAT leaders will be watching developments closely.

Prediction 5: Education as Part of a Wider Wellbeing Agenda

Throughout his political career, Burnham has often spoken about public services working together to improve outcomes for communities.

This could result in education policy becoming more closely connected to:

• Mental health
• Family support services
• Attendance improvement
• Youth services
• Community partnerships

For schools, this may reinforce the growing importance of wellbeing-led design and holistic support models.

What Does This Mean for Schools Today?

For now, school leaders should avoid overreacting to political developments.

Most education priorities remain unchanged:

• Raising attainment
• Supporting SEND learners
• Recruiting and retaining staff
• Managing budgets
• Delivering capital improvements
• Creating environments that support wellbeing and achievement

The bigger question is whether a new Prime Minister chooses to accelerate reform or simply adjust the direction of travel.

If Andy Burnham succeeds Sir Keir Starmer, schools could see a government that places greater emphasis on regional empowerment, inclusion, skills development and public service integration. While funding pressures are unlikely to disappear overnight, the tone and focus of education policy may feel noticeably different.

As always, the challenge for education leaders will be balancing immediate operational pressures with long-term strategic planning in an evolving political landscape.

The Morleys Advantage

FF&E and Education Interior Design Specialists

We offer a complete FF&E solution to education clients, from interior design, small building works, furniture specification to project management and installation.

We understand school improvement and refurbishment projects are an important investment for schools, so using our access to the widest range of furniture designed for education environments, and our commitment to quality, best value and durability, we deliver a return on your investment by creating a functional and inspiring space that students will benefit from for years to come.

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If you have an education project in the pipeline and would like to know more about the benefits of working with Morleys and the service we offer as FF&E design consultants, please get in touch, we would love to hear from you.